Podcasting has become a mainstream medium for sharing stories, insights, and entertainment. However, as the industry grows, so does the complexity around measuring success. One of the seemingly simple metrics to gauge a podcast’s growth is the number of downloads it receives. But as Joe Casabona, product evangelist at RSS.com, explains, the reality is far from simple.
The Challenge of Measuring Podcast Downloads
Downloads are a universal metric for podcasters to compare episodes and shows. Yet, this metric is anything but straightforward.
Different podcast hosts have their unique methods of counting downloads, leading to inconsistencies that can confuse and mislead podcasters. Some platforms even exclude downloads from entire countries or continents, further complicating comparisons.
The Quest for Standardization
Efforts by organizations like the Interactive Advertising Bureau (IAB) aim to standardize download counting across the industry. However, without universal participation from hosting platforms, discrepancies remain.
This lack of consistency begs the question: how can podcast hosts provide fair and accurate metrics to all podcasters?
Simplecast Podcast Hosting
Despite its evolution and ownership changes, Simplecast’s focus seems to have shifted towards serving large brands and enterprise-level customers, potentially sidelining independent and new podcasters.
Simplecast’s pricing model, which includes download limits, could potentially penalize podcasters for their success. With some plans limiting downloads to a certain number per month, podcasters risk facing unexpected charges if their audience grows or if a platform’s policy changes lead to an increase in downloads.
Simplecast, and platforms with similar models, might not be the best fit for independent creators. The focus on big brands and the limitations placed on downloads could hinder the growth and sustainability of smaller, independent podcasts.
For newer podcasters that don’t want to be charged more for becoming popular, Simplecast may not be the best option.
RSS.com Features and Plans
RSS.com stands out by not basing pricing on download counts but rather on the features offered. This model supports podcasters at all levels, ensuring that success and audience growth do not lead to punitive costs. It’s a model that favors creativity and growth, catering to the podcasters and podcast networks alike, without limiting them for higher download numbers.