Hello there Sea Changers. Welcome back to my series of program lists to assist those of you looking to work online with my 10 best podcast hosting sites to hit the airwaves with this year. And of course, as with anything to do with software, there are a lot of options to choose from.
Hence, choosing which one is the best for your needs can be quite a daunting process. So to assist you here is a list of the 10 best online graphic design tool options that I have found. Let's check them out.
- Buzzsprout
- Spreaker
- Simplecast
- Podbean
- Blubrry
- Anchor
- Castbox
- Soundcloud
- Libsyn
- Captivate
That's right! Wealthy Affiliate provided me with all of the tools and training I needed to get this post in front of my audience - a.k.a YOU!
You too can start your very own online business here that can make you money from anywhere in the world!!
10 best online podcast hosting platforms
Ok, so let's now have a look at the 10 top podcast hosting sites I have found and run through them by looking at:
- What they offer
- Features
- Pricing
And for those of you working within the affiliate marketing space I will highlight program details too.
1. Buzzsprout
Let's start with Buzzsprout, a platform that “gives you everything you need to host, promote, and track your podcast”. It offers a good free option that includes the following features:
- Recording
- Auto optimisation of recordings
- Dynamic content to all the addition and removal of pre and post roll segments
- SEO and accessibility transcriptions
And once this has all been completed, Buzzsprout can assist you in reaching “millions of potential listeners” via listing in:
- Apple Podcasts
- Spotify
- Google Podcasts
- Stitcher
- iHeart Radio
- TuneIn
- Alexa
- Overcast
- PocketCasts
- Castro
- Castbox
- Podchaser
There is also a great blog and step by step ‘getting started' guide on the site as well.
Pricing
As above, Buzzsprout offers a free option for those looking to either get started or release basic podcasts. For more feature rich options however, pricing is as follows:
Affiliate program
The Buzzsprout affiliate program pays $25 for every paid account referred (as well as a $20 Amazon Gift Card to your referree). Application is via the website.
2. Spreaker
Our next option, Spreaker, promotes itself as being the “one-stop shop for podcast hosting, creation, distribution and monetization”. It is a feature rich program that includes:
- Distribution
- Monetization
- Analytics
- Enterprise podcasting
- Recording and podcasting apps
And for those getting started (or even for more experienced podcasters) the ‘Create a Podcast' section runs you through every step of the process including:
- Concept
- Software
- Equipment
- Cover Art
- Introduction
- Planning
Pricing
As with many of the platforms in this list, Spreaker offers a permanent free option with limited functionality and episode upload limits. For more options, pricing is as follows:
Affiliate program
Spreaker's affiliate program offers a 20% commission for each new referral to the platform. Application is via Impact Radius.
3. Simplecast
Simplecast is another comprehensive podcast hosting program offering “powerful tools to manage, distribute, share, and grow your podcast — from your first listener to your first million”. It offers all of the podcasting tools of any professional platform including:
- Unlimited storage & uploads
- Distribution to everywhere your audience listens including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Overcast and more.
- Analytics (that increase based on plan)
- Customizable show website with custom domain
- Manage multiple shows with one account
- Embeddable episode web player
- Recast for you (and your listeners)
- A secure (HTTPS) site and RSS feed
And as with most programs listed here, there is a great blog to assist you in getting started as well.
Pricing
All plans Simplecast offer a 14-day commitment-free trial then pricing as follows:
Affiliate program
I was unable to locate any affiliate program information for this platform.
4. Podbean
Podbean is an all-inclusive option for those looking to record, stream and monetize podcasts for users of all levels. It contains a great ‘free forever' option for beginners and base podcasters with a full suite of functions under paid plans for larger users such as:
- iPhone/Android App
- Embeddable players
- Your own podcast site
- Distribution to all major podcast apps
- Podcast themes
- Advanced, IAB certified stats
- Custom design
- Map your own domain
- Multiple podcast channels
- Ads marketplace
- Premium sales
- Patron program
- PodAds – The SaaS for podcast advertising
The site boasts over 600,000 podcasters that “trust Podbean podcast hosting for all the services they need to start their podcast and achieve their goals”.
Pricing
As above, Podbean offers a limited function free option suitable for beginners and basic podcasters. For greater functionality however their ongoing costs are as follows:
Affiliate program
Podbean offers an affiliate program that pays the equivalent of 1 month's pricing for each referral who signs up. Application is via the website.
5. Blubrry
Our next site ion this podcasting sites list is Blubrry, is another that offers a good suite of features to allow new and experienced users to get their podcasts recorded and out there for the world to hear. They offer a “smooth publishing platform” with features including:
- Podcast recording and distribution
- Comprehensive analytics
- Monetization
- Custom embed player
- Free WordPress Site
- Blubrry sub domain
- Essential themes and plugins
And whilst this list really doesn't do the site justice, there is certainly enough there to meet the needs of all podcasters.
Pricing
After a 30-Day free trial, Blubrry offers the following pricing options:
Affiliate Program
Blubrry offers an affiliate program with Commissions equivalent to the plan purchased. Application is via the website.
That's right! Wealthy Affiliate provided me with all of the tools and training I needed to get this post in front of my audience - a.k.a YOU!
You too can start your very own online business here that can make you money from anywhere in the world!!
6. Anchor
For those of you in the bootstrapping phase, Anchor is a free platform containing tools that allow users to:
- Record and edit audio
- Arrange recordings into episodes
- Publish podcasts to listening platforms
- Monetize content via listener contributions
- Adding advertisements into episodes
Hosting is unlimited and users retain the rights to all of their own content as well as being able to do all of the above via their own cell phone app too.
Pricing
Free
Affiliate Program
N/A
7. Castbox
Castbox is another free podcast hosting option that offers services on both sides of the fence meaning they offer the ability to record and publish podcasts for listeners to access all within the same site. As far as podcast creation is concerned, they offer a comprehensive range features including:
- Free audio upload
- Analytics
- Commenting, sharing and other social features
- Submission processes for feature on site lists
As with the site above, this is a great option for those getting started on their podcasting journeys with the ability to be ‘discovered' as well all in the one place.
Pricing
There is a pro version for listeners for access to greater content however for publishers, the creator studio is free to operate.
Affiliate Program
N/A
8. Soundcloud
SoundCloud is another all encompassing podcast suite with a complete set of features to rival any other program in this list as well as a place to host your podcasts for discovery. As per the programs above, they offer a full suite of options to record, publish and track podcasts as well.
And for those starting out, the platform contains a fantastic training and instruction guide to get those new to the process uploaded, discovered and paid for their podcasts based on listener attraction.
Pricing
For content creators, SoundCloud offers a free option with limited functionality. For more options however, pricing is as follows:
Affiliate Program
From what I can tell, SoundCloud does not offer an affiliate program.
9. Libsyn
Libsyn offer podcasting for “beginners to experts” with a full suite of tools for every need. To be honest, their list is huge and maybe even too much to list here but does include:
- Unlimited audience
- Apple podcasts compliant RSS
- Podcast page mini site
- Libsyn directory listing
- Podcast source app listing
- Custom HTML5 Media Player
- WordPress publisher hub
- Show color swatches
- Secure RSS feed available
- Audio, video, PDF & text hosting
- Advanced episode scheduling
- FTP upload support
There is so much more as well. And in keeping with most sites in this list, there is also a great set of blogs and instructions for those starting out too.
Pricing
From what I can tell, there is no free trial option with pricing as follows:
Affiliate Program
Libsyn offers a 100% commission on the hosting plan users sign up for. Application is via the website.
10. Captivate
And finally we finish up with Captivate. This site is another great option for those working within podcasts at all levels with a complete set of features to create, publish, host and monetize your material.
And again for those starting out, the site offers a full instructional set outlining their “practical 5-step framework to go from zero to podcast with no alienating jargon or imposter syndrome” as well. For those on a paid plan, access to captivate Growth Labs with any subscription plan is also included which provides training in such areas as:
- Podcast marketing
- SEO
- Sponsorship attraction
- And more.
Pricing
After a no obligation 7 day free trial, pricing is as follows:
Affiliate Program
The Captivate affiliate program offers a 25% recurring payout for the lifetime of every podcaster that you refer. Application is via the website.
What are online podcast hosting tools?
In something that perhaps heralds back to the world of radio, a podcast is an audio recording that allows users to download and listen to at a later time such as in the car, on a walk or so on. When it comes to an online business, podcasts are effective as a means to :
- Provide value add such as extra coaching or information
- Market a new product
- Tell a story
- Run a series of expert information sessions
And in order to develop and publish these, you will generally need a good podcast hosting suite that will allow you to:
- Record, store and distribute audio files
- Create episode lists
- Market and monetize podcast episodes
- Podcast analytics
Many of these platforms also allow marketers to upload directly to podcast ‘stores' such Apple Podcast, Spotify and Stitcher etc. as well as social media platforms too.
FAQs
What Are Podcast Hosting Sites
In general, a good podcast hosting suite in an online platform that will allow you to record, store and distribute audio files, create episode lists, market and monetize podcast episodes and view podcast analytics Many of these platforms also allow marketers to upload directly to podcast ‘stores' such Apple Podcast, Spotify and Stitcher etc. as well as social media platforms too.
Conclusion
So… There is my podcast sharing sites list for the best hosting to hit the airwaves with this year. I hope it has been helpful for you and as usual, please do not hesitate to comment below if you have any questions, need some advice or have any experiences to share. Oh, and especially comment if you have any experience with these, or any other platforms as well.
Until next time
Have fun
Paul
Note: If you make a purchase from this page, there is a very good chance that I make a commission from it – these commissions do not increase your sale price. This may include sales made via wealthy affiliate or any of the podcast hosting programs listed above.
Do you want further assistance with any of the above or need help to build your own online marketing website?
Are you looking for a comprehensive training platform that can give you step by step training, 24/7 support, tools to develop and host your very own website, ongoing assistance with SEO and social media and access to some of the best affiliate marketing minds on the planet, then click on the following link to read more about Wealthy Affiliate.
Introducing Wealthy Affiliate, My #1 Recommendation for Setting Up Your Own Online Business
When I started, I knew I wanted to work online, but had absolutely no idea where to begin! You see I had watched friends of mine run a sales party to sell essential oils and someone asked if they could just sell them online?
Then, as I sat on the bus heading into my office job, I started to wonder if I could do just that, sell essential oils online.
Anything to stop having to catch this bus to and from work every day right!
The trouble was, as I mentioned above, I had no idea how to even start.
So of course I started to look around online and found all these courses! They all promised me riches then took my money but left me with no riches!
Then I stumbled across the program that didn’t promise me riches, but told me it could help me get started even with no experience!
So I did that, joined Wealthy Affiliate that was it, and the rest as they say, is history!
But it doesn’t come without work!
That is the key here! I began on their starter membership and did the training! I then joined as a member and did some more training!
Each night after work, I would do a little more, then a little more.
And to cut a long story short, after 10 months I realized I didn’t really like writing about essential oils, so I sold the site for about $2000. But I had learned so much that I started another – about fishing and camping!
Then, after 18 months (by which time it had earned me close to $10k), I was offered $17k for the site, so I sold it too.
Now, through my travel blog, I’ve been able to fund my passion for travel and explore different places around the world.
In the past few months, I’ve been fortunate enough to travel to some amazing destinations, including Bali, Los Angeles, Dallas, Vancouver and Las Vegas.
The success of my travel blog has allowed me to fully fund my travels and explore new destinations with my family.
Try the Wealthy Affiliate as a Starter Member and Build your First Hub!
As you start your journey, Wealthy Affiliate is there for you with the most comprehensive training package I have ever seen – And as I have mentioned, I have used a few in my professional career trust me.
To get you started, Wealthy Affiliate has recently introduced the Hub.
The Hub
The hub is an AI based niche and website creation tool that will get you up and running with the foundation of your OWN business in just a few minutes. This includes:
- Your website – hosted and inclusive of a WordPress editor
- Your brand
- Your ‘done-for-you’ research
- Your blueprint
- A task list that is going to help you drive the creation and growth of your business moving forward.
The hub makes the website creation process simple which allows you to get started on the training with a solid base and understanding of the processes.
All you need to do is choose your subject – which is known as your ‘niche’ – and follow the steps on the screen.
Oh, and as you run through the training below you may realize that what you created above is not exactly what you want. That’s ok, you can just create a new hub!
Wealthy Affiliate Training
Then as you continue your journey, the Wealthy Affiliate Hub is there for you with the most comprehensive training package I have ever seen – And I have used a few in my professional career trust me.
Above we discussed the use of the Hub to set up a website. Once you have done this, you will be able to access the “Step-by-Step Core Training”.
This is available to all members including starter members and will give you everything you need to know to continue to create your online business.
Member Training
There are also Live weekly classes taught by REAL industry experts on a range of topics like artificial intelligence (AI), SEO, YouTube, WordPress, PPC marketing and more.
Great, What Else Does Wealthy Affiliate Have To Help You?
So, let’s keep this short, Wealthy Affiliate is a one-stop-shop platform that provides:
- The Hub – this is the starting point and uses AI processes to assist you in determining your niche and creating your brand.
- Complete training programs to assist with the development of your own affiliate marketing website in your own niche.
- Website creation and publishing tools including access to WordPress editors and themes.
- AI Content article design and content creation
- Domain name purchasing (you get a free domain when you upgrade to the Premium membership).
- Website hosting, security and backup.
- Online help and chat forums.
- Weekly live training events.
- 24/7 support.
- Keyword access tools.
- SEO assistance.
The platform has been active for over 15 years with the original developers and owners, Kyle and Carson, still extremely active in its day to day operations – especially as they rollout their AI capabilities.
You Can Try it Yourself For Free
Now of course I can tell you all about how Wealthy Affiliate works (because it does) until I am blue in the face. But every other program out there – including the shams and scams – will tell you the same thing!
So how about you just try it for free yourself. The Wealthy Affiliate Starter membership is free to join and gives you access to everything you need to get started – all without the need to spend a cent!
With the starter membership, you get:
- 1 Limited Business Hub
- 1,500 AI Word Credits
- Try the AI Author Platform (BETA)
- 1 Practice Website
- Jaaxy Starter
- Limited Help & Support
- Core Niche Training (8 Classes)
And of course I will be there to help you every step of the way as well!
Look, in the interest of transparency, whilst Wealthy Affiliate does offer a free starter membership, this is designed to give you a look around, have a practice and see if it is worthwhile for you – which is a really great option.
However, as with all new businesses, you will need to make some investment so if you are serious about making money online , you will need to upgrade to a premium membership as this will give you access to all the tools you need in the one spot to succeed!
Afterall, every business needs tools to grow!
So How Much Does This Really Cost?
Wealthy Affiliate does not use upsells once you join – but as I mentioned in the video, to succeed here you will need to invest in a membership. There are a couple of options that provide access to all the tools, training and assistance that you could need – and a free domain as well.
Wealthy Affiliate offers a trio of membership tiers, as detailed on their pricing page.
You can opt for the Starter membership at no cost, the Premium membership for $49 per month or the Premium Plus+ membership for $99 per month. That’s the full extent of it – and you can absolutely build your website without having to spend another cent.
You won’t encounter any unexpected additional charges or covert fees and as a Premium member, you’re equipped with all the essentials to initiate, develop and expand a thriving online enterprise.
Those who opt for the Premium membership are provided with
- Hosting for their websites
- A complimentary domain name
- Access to hundreds of hours of current expert tutorials
- Various marketing and research tools
- Personal guidance from seasoned professionals in the field
- And much much more
And for those of you who want to make a serious investment into your future, there are some yearly options as well below to give you peace of mind that you have a whole year ahead of you to get stuff done!
And Don’t Forget the Personal Coaching
Once you join, not only do you get plenty of assistance from me, but you also have access to expert coaching, support and mentorship from real industry experts.
I mean, you can have access to all of the top-tier affiliate marketing training in the world, but inevitably, questions arise, particularly during the initial stages.
With an exceptionally dynamic and engaged community that boasts over 2.7 million members, Wealthy Affiliate offers an environment where you, as a member, can fully immerse and leverage this network.
You’re never alone; you have the collective wisdom of an entire community at your fingertips, ready to assist at any moment.
Plus, there’s always-on, rapid-response website support to handle any technical queries you may encounter.
Wealthy Affiliate Works: Real Results From Real People
As I have mentioned a number of times, Wealthy Affiliate has helped me make real money online though its training and tools.
I have made money each month as well as a sale for $17,000.
But again, those promoting other programs will tell you the same thing!
So let’s get away from me and see what others are saying:
To start with, Wealthy Affiliate has a 4.9 out of 5 Star TrustPilot rating, which is a remarkable accomplishment in any industry, let alone the online business industry.
And here are some of those reviews:
And this is what people are saying within Wealthy Affiliate as well:
So, Let’s Make a Decision!
Let’s be frank, you have read this far so why not go all in, click on the button below to get started on the way to your very online business.
And once you are in and have had a play around with the hub, look for the little envelope on the top right and there will be a message from me. It is of course automated so respond to let me know you are there and we can start this journey together.
(oh, and the profile is mine so you can find me that way as well)
See you there
Paul
