Whether you’re new to podcasting or you’ve been hosting for years, getting your podcast on Spotify is a great way to access new audiences, increase subscribers, and potentially make money from new episodes and content. This guide on Spotify for podcasters will help you understand how to start a podcast on Spotify to reach new listeners
One platform that’s quickly becoming a favorite among podcasters is Spotify. This music streaming giant is now a close second to iTunes in terms of popularity. It may have been difficult to submit shows to Spotify’s beta program in the past, but perhaps due to insistent public demand, the good news is they’ve finally started accommodating all podcasts. Millions of listeners (including non-Apple podcasters) go on Spotify, so it’s definitely one podcast directory that you’ll want to be in. Here’s how you can upload your podcasts to Spotify and how to start a podcast on Spotify:
But First, What Exactly is a Podcast?
A podcast can exist in many forms. Think of it as a regularly scheduled show you broadcast online. Podcasts can have video/audio components and be about any subject, although most stick to a theme for the show. Most podcasts consist of a small group of hosts who discuss the current topic. Some podcasters include relevant multimedia information like sound effects or pictures too.
How Long Should a Podcast be?
The best part of a podcast is that it is entirely scalable, depending on your needs. Some episodes may be longer or shorter, and some podcasts make their episodes in seasons. Some are very short (5-10 minutes), and some are hours long. For maximum impact and reach, successful podcasters allot adequate time for editing to keep the stories exciting. If you are a new podcaster and not a household name, it’s wise to keep the episodes short. Release fresh episodes frequently to attract new listeners.
What Should You Name Your Podcast?
Your podcast needs a memorable title that jumps off the screen! Choose a name that instantly connects to potential fans. The end goal is to bring in new listeners, so catchiness and clarity are the key elements. Avoid titles that are too similar to other famous names. Make your work stand out amongst the competition.
What Equipment is Needed to Start a Podcast?
A podcast is very easy to put together at its most basic level. You’ll need a microphone, a computer with audio recording software, and something to listen back on, such as speakers or headphones. Streamers may also find microphone stand, pop-filters, and additional editing software useful. One more thing is needed for a podcast — a subject you care deeply about!
Step-By-Step Guide on How to Start A Podcast on Spotify
If you’re new to podcasting, the first two basic steps are for you. If you want to get into more detail, you can check our article about starting your own podcast.
Step 1: Get Your Podcast Ready for Upload
The first thing you’ll need to do when you want to learn how to start a podcast on Spotify is to develop your podcast concept and choose the corresponding podcast format. Next would be to complete your podcasting gear, record and edit your podcast using a podcast recording software that you are comfortable with, and complete its file details (including the metadata and cover photo) until all you have to do next is upload it onto a podcast hosting site.
Spotify is very particular about the technical details of any podcast submitted to them. Users must adhere to them or risk rejection/removal. Luckily, these guidelines are straightforward to follow. The guidelines are:
- Podcast creators must create and use a Blubrry Media Hosting account. Multiple plans with flexible pricing are available to meet your needs.
- Spotify requires all audio to be in ISO/IEC 11172-3 MPEG-1 Part 3 (MP3) audio with bitrates between 96 and 320 kbps. In other words, an audio mp3 file with good quality audio. Avoid excessive noise, hiss, and hum, and make sure all dialog is clear and consistent. These techniques are required as Spotify standards but will also help to make the podcast more accessible and successful.
- Published media files must be at most 200MB in size. 200MB is approximately 83 minutes at 320Kbps encoding or over 200 minutes at 128Kbps encoding.
- Artwork image dimensions must be at least 1400 x 1400 pixels in .JPG or .PNG format and must not exceed 3000 x 3000 pixels. It must use RGB color space, and the file size must be 0.5MB (500kb) or less.
- To qualify for publishing, all podcast feeds must have a title, image, and at least one episode.
As a rule of thumb for podcasters who want to promote their podcast (and potentially make money from it), you’ll want to prepare at least three (3) podcast audio files that you can publish all at the same time. These will give your new listeners more opportunities to get to know you and your show, therefore encouraging podcast downloads and subscriptions for your show.
Step 2: Choose a Podcast Hosting Company
Once your podcasts are all ready for upload, the next step is to decide where you want your podcast hosted. There are many widely-used podcast hosting services like Libsyn, Buzzsprout, Blubrry, and PodBean.
The best way to decide which one is for you is to do more research about them and what they offer, especially since not all of them are free. However, you may want to think about your long-term needs (like storage capacity and usability) before deciding on the cheapest possible option.
Also, most apps/sites like Spotify don’t actually store podcast files. Hosts do, and they will let you notify multiple podcast players with just a few clicks.
Step 3: Submit Your Podcast Through Your Host
Instead of submitting your RSS feed to Spotify as you would typically be told to do with other directories, they now allow you to add podcasts to Spotify through your chosen host. How convenient, right? Now here’s how you do it depending on your podcast platform/s:
How to Submit to Spotify with Libsyn
- Log into your Libsyn account
- On the dashboard, click on the “Destinations” tab and then “Add New”
- Beside Spotify, click on “Edit”
- Once a “Create New Destination” submission form pops up, select at least one category that best describes your podcast show
- Enter a subtitle, summary, and author name (name of your show)
- Set your primary language and choose whether or not your podcast contains explicit content
- Enter your name and email
- Agree to the Terms and Conditions
- Click “Save”
You can learn more about how you can submit to Spotify through Libsyn here.
Get Into Spotify with Blubrry
- Sign into your Blubrry account
- Make sure you meet their requirements for submitting to Spotify
- Enter your RSS feed and home country
- Choose the category that best describes your show
- Agree to the Terms & Conditions
- Enter your name and submit!
Blubrry updates their requirements and instructions for submitting to Spotify here.
Uploading With Buzzsprout
- Log into your Buzzsprout account
- Click on “iTunes & Directories”
- Select “Submit your podcast to Spotify”
- Enter your show’s title, Buzzsprout account email, and RSS feed
- Confirm that your show doesn’t contain any copyrighted material
- Hit “Submit”
Buzzsprout talks about the steps here. They even offer you to switch to their platform for free!
Uploading with PodBean
- Log into your Podbean account
- Go to Settings and click “Social Share”
- Find and click the “Connect to Spotify” button
- Agree to the Terms & Conditions
- Select the primary country of your show
- Click “Apply”
If your podcast host is not listed above, you can simply follow the instructions on your podcast host’s website. Here are the instructions for Podomatic, Fireside, Simplecast, Podigee, Audioboom, and Pippa.
Step 4: Wait for Approval
Spotify won’t contact you about the status of your podcast submission, but your host might. In case they don’t, you can just wait 2-5 days for your show to be approved or search for your podcast on Spotify until it shows up. You’ll want to beat your listeners to it so you can make sure that the details are exactly how you want them to look on the app.
Step 5: Share Your Spotify Link
One way that you can make the best of your show’s presence on Spotify is to help it gain listeners. Grab the direct link to your podcast (from the Spotify desktop page or mobile app) and share it with your friends, family, or followers through your social media pages. Make this a regular practice for every show you publish and reap the benefits of having a much wider audience.
How to Monetize Your Podcast on Spotify
One of the easiest ways to monetize a podcast on Spotify is to ask for donations during your podcast. Even a method as simple as a PayPal account will work, or you set up a Patreon or any number of other similar services.
Depending on your podcast and listeners, you may be able to offer separate, “premium” content in addition to your normal podcast, or put your older content behind a paywall. As your listenership grows, you may find advertising and sponsorship opportunities, either directly or via an advertising network. You can then work on how to get podcast sponsors to add to your revenue. You can also sell merch, like T-shirts and hats, related to your podcast.
But you can turn your podcast into an income stream in several ways. Monetization techniques may differ depending on your subject and audience, so experimenting can help produce better results. Here’s a list of great places to start:
Corporate Sponsorships
These are a wonderful way to reach a larger audience. The sponsorship can include money for advertising, promotional and supplemental materials, assistance with gear and setups, or even just money paid directly to you as profit. This support is fantastic if you can get them. Still, they may require some time to build up. Companies want to know where their investments are going and what they can realistically expect in return. Reach out to the companies that are a natural fit based on your theme. Accentuate how you will help them.
Create a Social Media Platform for the Podcast
Social media is the best way to garner new fans and create a community that reliably supports and promotes your podcast. Frequent and consistent posts are essential, but connecting and engaging with potential listeners at every opportunity is vital. Regularly comment on similar profiles to raise brand awareness and develop meaningful relationships.
Offer Premium Content
Create your podcast as you always would, but save unique, more detailed information for superfans. These exclusive materials can include goodies like artwork and customized content, and even one-on-one time. Keep the number of packages offered on the smaller side to make it easy for any fan to support you.
Use Affiliate Links and Content
This technique is a great place to start, with a low barrier to entry and ease of setup. Partner with retail and sales companies in your field and send your fans there in return for a percentage of the sales. Many larger companies will already have a framework in place for this. Be open and honest about the partnerships, and choose companies you like and believe in.
Why Podcasters Choose Spotify
Here are some of the top reasons why many podcasters choose Spotify over other streaming services. You’ll also find a few benefits you may not have considered for joining a streaming service like Spotify. If you’re learning how to start a podcast on Spotify, these are reasons to choose this platform:
Spotify’s massive user base
Because Spotify already has millions of users, you’re essentially tapping into an existing audience that’s looking for content like yours. In the past two years, podcast listening on the platform has increased by 200%. Few other streaming services can boast that kind of listenership.
Spotify has nearly 300 million listeners distributed across 92 markets around the world. Those listeners regularly search the platform for interesting new podcasts to check out and enjoy. Why not make use of Spotify’s successful marketing to grow your own audience organically?
Seamless integration of multiple platforms
Other streaming services, like Apple Podcasts and Google Podcasts, specifically target limited audiences based on their allegiance to Android or iOS devices. While other streaming services are constantly emerging from companies like Amazon, Spotify is a universal platform that listeners can access regardless of the device they own.
If you want your episodes to be available to podcast listeners on their phones, tablets, computers, gaming consoles, smart TVs, and home smart devices, then Spotify is the quickest, best integrated option for you.
Helpful audience insights and analytics for podcasters
For many podcast creators, targeting their ideal audiences is very hit or miss. You may find yourself struggling to reach the podcast listeners you’re targeting. Regardless of your intentions or demographic goals, you need an accurate snapshot of your podcast audience if you’re going to work with advertisers so you can make money via sponsorship.
Demographics
Spotify collects demographic information and pays attention to your audience’s music streaming and podcast listening habits, so you can track your audience as it grows. With Spotify, you’ll be able to track age, self-reported gender, and other information that will help you engage more directly with your audience.
Listener feedback
Spotify also measures listeners by stars and streams, so you’ll know how many listeners clicked on your episodes and started listening. You’ll also get a sense for the number of listeners who stuck around for longer than a minute.
Analytics
Analytics data is updated daily, so it’s easy to see how your listeners are responding to your new episodes and bonus content. When one of your episodes makes a big splash, you can craft more content designed to keep those listeners happy. If an episode is less successful, you can pivot and adjust to learn and improve.
For easier internal tracking and for sharing audience data like podcast subscriptions with potential sponsors, you can download your data directly from Spotify as a .CSV file.
Playlists and other audience growth tools
It can be difficult to grow an audience for your new podcast. Fortunately, Spotify has a vested interest in helping listeners find your content, so your podcast can grow and thrive. If you choose to list your podcast on Spotify, you can directly benefit from daily playlists, new episode announcements, podcast directories, and other useful referral sources.
Spotify manages several referral lists and listening charts to help listeners find great content. The list of “Top Podcasts” shows the top 200 podcasts in each country location, “Top Episodes” shows the top 200 episodes as determined by audience size and rate of growth, and “Top Podcasts by Category” displays the top 50 podcasts within each category of content.
Before you know it, you’ll have an established audience for your very own podcast.
Bonus features and tools to help you succeed
Spotify regularly offers useful content to help podcasters improve their workflows and achieve success. If you’re just getting started and you’re not sure how to record, edit, or host your podcast, these helpful tips and useful software recommendations will make a big difference.
Things to Know Before Uploading Your Podcast
Understandably, you can’t upload your podcast to Spotify if it contains any copyrighted material that you are not licensed to use. Before submitting your podcasts, make sure to read up on what “podsafe” means to ensure that your show follows these guidelines.
Keep in mind that being podsafe mostly pertains to music, but you should also take care to avoid using copyrighted images for your cover art. If you can’t use your own images, make sure to use Creative Commons material, or just purchase available stock photos or artwork online.
Bonus tip: Some podcast hosting sites provide you with a directory of podsafe music (like Blubrry), but there are many other sources online where you can find free-to-use tunes for your show—just do a search for “Creative Commons” or “Royalty-Free” music.
Other Podcast Platforms
A hosting service will store your audio, publish it to the general public, and provide analytics detailing your podcast’s performance. While Spotify has a more extensive reach than most hosting sites, some podcasters may wish to go with a different venue for various reasons. Streamers can go deep into research mode to find the best place for them. Some great places to start are Google Podcasts, Apple Podcasts, Buzzsprout, and Stitcher. Look at storage options, subscription costs, customized domain names, and analytics that best fit your needs. Most hosting companies offer multiple tiers to help podcasters get started and expand when ready.
Spotify for Podcasters: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Spotify Free for Podcasts?
Spotify will include your podcast for free using the above steps. In this way it’s similar to other podcasting apps and websites. You’ll still need a podcast host, of course, but there are free options for those as well. You even get access to listener totals, demographics, and other analytics.
Spotify is also free for listeners. Anyone with a free Spotify account can listen to podcasts. However, they’ll need a Premium account to download podcasts for offline listening, just like with songs and albums.
Is Spotify Better than iTunes?
iTunes, or specifically now Apple Podcasts, is the largest podcast provider by far. It’s not that it’s necessarily better than Spotify or any other platform, but any podcaster should consider including their podcast on both services, and Google Podcasts, too. It’s free to do so, and it will put your podcast in the ears of more people.
There is likely very little overlap between those who listen to podcasts on Apple iTunes/Podcasts and those who listen on Spotify or other services. Many hosting services make it easy to push your podcasts to multiple apps at once.
Getting Started with Spotify
If you’re ready to access Spotify’s robust international audience so you can grow your podcast and access listeners who have been searching for shows like yours, it’s easy to sign up. Following our step by step guide for how to start your podcast on Spotify will help you get there.
Feature image via Shutterstock
