Buzzcast is a roundtable discussion about podcasting from the people at Buzzsprout. We'll cover current events and news, podcast strategy, tools we are using, and dip into the Customer Support mailbag to test our podcasting knowledge. If you want to stay up-to-date on what's working in podcasting, Buzzcast is the show for you.
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Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we explore the best places to find pro-level, royalty-free music for your podcast in 2025—including a surprising archive from Grammy-nominated artist Moby, who just dropped 500+ tracks for creators to use. We’ll also share some of our favorite free and low-cost music libraries! Music Resources: Buzzsprout Blog: Free Music For Podcasts Mobygratis Blue Dot Sessions Breakmaster Cylinder Free Music Archive Incompetech Pixabay Music YouTube Audio Library The music in...
Send us Fan Mail What would you do if someone offered you $100 million for your podcast? In this episode, we dive into Steven Bartlett’s recent disclosure that he turned down not one, but two massive podcasting deals — including a $100M offer. Why? Because they came with strings attached: platform exclusivity, ad overload, and a loss of creative control. We discuss why prioritizing your listeners, values, and long-term vision might be worth more than the biggest paycheck. Plus, we hear the drawb...
This episode of Buzzcast discusses Pocket Casts adopting the podcast funding tag, allowing listeners to support creators directly. The hosts also explore the "Fandom Phenomenon" study by Edison and Wondery, highlighting the deep connections podcast listeners form with their favorite shows and hosts, and how podcasters can foster these relationships to build community and brand loyalty.
Alban recounts his experience at Podcast Movement Evolutions 2025, where the overwhelming focus on video sparked debates about the identity and future of podcasting. The team explores the tension between audio-first content and the push for video integration, discussing the costs, business models, and the potential impact on the podcasting community. They also highlight inspirational stories of senior podcasters and brainstorm innovative features for podcast listening apps.
Jordan and Kevin discuss the blurring lines of podcasting's definition, prompted by Oxford Road's "What is a Podcast?" survey. They explore how the rise of video and multi-platform content creation challenges traditional podcasting and impacts advertising revenue. The conversation also touches on the perspectives of listeners, creators, and industry leaders regarding the evolving identity of podcasts.
Send us Fan Mail Podcasting has officially gone mainstream according to Edison Research's Infinite Dial, with 55% of Americans now consuming podcasts monthly. Does this mean we never have to explain what a podcast is again? Let's hope! Mentioned in this episode: Rory McIlroy's club switch during tournament Buzzsprout Hang Out at Podcast Movement Evolutions Netflix exploring video podcasts as potential content on their platform Bulksprout : New bulk upload tool released for Buzzsprout users Keith...
The Buzzcast team addresses listener questions about podcast app features like chapter markers and transcripts, discussing inconsistencies across different platforms including Apple Podcasts, Pocket Casts, and web players. They explore the shift from native apps to mobile web experiences and share their favorite podcast app recommendations, highlighting the benefits of apps like Pocket Cast and Amazon Music.
Send us Fan Mail Numbers don't tell the whole story of your podcast's impact—but understanding them can help you use analytics effectively while staying focused on creating the content you love. Tom Rossi joins Alban and Jordan to simplify podcast stats and what they actually mean for creators. Whether you're trying to grow your show, attract sponsors, or simply understand your audience better, we're giving out actionable strategies for podcast analytics found in Buzzsprout , Apple Podcasts , Sp...
Send us Fan Mail We dive into surprising data from PodMatch about how 9,000 podcasters market their shows, revealing a disconnect between the most popular tactics and those that actually drive growth. Check out our Reddit thread for unique marketing ideas for your podcast ! Don't forget to send us your challenges to do something different just to talk about it on the podcast! Contact Buzzcast Send us Fan Mail Tweet us at @buzzcastpodcast , @albanbrooke , @kfinn , and @JordanPods Thanks for liste...
Send us Fan Mail In podcasting, it's not just about downloads—it's about connection, creativity, and the community you build along the way! We're diving into stories of inspiration and practical advice from our listeners that you can implement in your own podcasting journey. Links mentioned in the episode: Small P Podcasting Sound-Off: Challenge us to do something just so we can talk about it on the podcast! Contact Buzzcast Send us Fan Mail Tweet us at @buzzcastpodcast , @albanbrooke , @kfinn ,...
Send us Fan Mail We're going over some significant updates from Apple Podcasts that simplify the podcast submission process! Submit to Apple Podcasts in One Click Claim Your Show on Apple Podcasts Connect Don't forget to tell us what motivates you to keep podcasting for our next Sound-Off segment! Contact Buzzcast Send us Fan Mail Tweet us at @buzzcastpodcast , @albanbrooke , @kfinn , and @JordanPods Thanks for listening and Keep Podcasting!...
Send us Fan Mail Everywhere we turn, someone’s saying that video is essential for podcast growth. But most of the top podcasters in the world aren’t bothering with video. So why are others being pressured to? In this episode, we break down the reality behind the video podcasting hype, why platforms and marketers are so desperate to push it, and the reason you shouldn't feel guilty about staying audio-only. Links mentioned in this episode: r/Buzzsprout unique marketing ideas thread Spotify music ...
Send us Fan Mail Podcasts get a bad rap sometimes, and one stereotype just won’t go away. So we're breaking down why it’s totally wrong, why it keeps popping up, and what podcasters can do about it. We also dive into why long-form conversations matter, how podcasting gets unfairly judged, and yes—our thoughts on that SNL skit. Contact Buzzcast Send us Fan Mail Tweet us at @buzzcastpodcast , @albanbrooke , @kfinn , and @JordanPods Thanks for listening and Keep Podcasting!...
Send us Fan Mail If you've been on the fence about launching a podcast, this episode is your sign to go for it! We're breaking down why right now is the absolute best time to start a podcast. We'll discuss why podcasting is still the least crowded content platform, how technology has made it easier than ever for creators, and bust some of the biggest myths holding people back from starting their podcast. We also touch on how independent creators may now be eligible for White House press credenti...
Send us Fan Mail Alban and Kevin are diving into the hilarious story of Google’s NotebookLM and its AI podcast hosts who got a little annoyed when interrupted. Due to snarky comebacks like “I was getting to that” and "as I was saying", Google had to teach its AI to be a bit more polite to humans. Then, the guys discuss why you should be respectful of all things, living or not, and debate the hard-hitting questions, like, "do trees have souls?". Editor's note: If Jordan was able to record this ep...
Send us Fan Mail AI is everywhere these days, but how does it fit into podcasting? In this episode, we’re breaking down what AI can do to make your podcasting life easier and what should always be left to good old human creativity. We’re talking about everything from tools that clean up your audio to ways AI can help you brainstorm. But let’s be real—there are some parts of podcasting that just can’t be automated. Whether you love AI or are a little freaked out by it, this episode will help you ...
Send us Fan Mail We're getting a rare glimpse into what major podcasters make, focusing on the salary disclosures from Barstool Sports. This thought-provoking conversation explores the impact of transparency in podcast earnings. Then we tease a topic of discussion for our next episode—AI's role in podcasting and what jobs should have a human's touch? Don't forget to let us know what you're most proud of accomplishing in 2024 for our next episode's Sound-Off segment! Contact Buzzcast Send us Fan ...
Send us Fan Mail Is PayPal's Honey browser extension siphoning affiliate commissions? In Megalag's YouTube video, The Honey Trap: Exposing PayPal's Influencer Scam , we learn about the accusations of Honey overriding affiliate cookies, stealing income from influencers, and manipulating consumer savings—all under the guise of helping shoppers save money. Before we cover that, we share updates about PodFest 2025 , including Buzzsprout’s VIP party and unique swag! Then, we reflect on 2024 and all o...
Send us Fan Mail We're chatting about a new feature in the Buzzsprout for iOS app: sharing episodes directly to Instagram Stories! Alban also gives us an update on his 50k trail race earlier this month! Contact Buzzcast Send us Fan Mail Tweet us at @buzzcastpodcast , @albanbrooke , @kfinn , and @JordanPods Thanks for listening and Keep Podcasting!...
Send us Fan Mail We're giving you the gift of flair and function with Buzzsprout's newest feature: Home Screen Widgets ! Use the Home Screen Widgets to track your progress, personalize your phone, and be inspired to keep podcasting. Available now on iOS and Android . We also delve into the complexities of podcasting burnout and how to rediscover the joy in creating. We discuss the pressures of competition in the podcasting realm and explore strategies to maintain passion and enthusiasm in your w...
Send us Fan Mail Tom Rossi joins us to unpack Buzzsprout's fascinating podcast statistics for 2024. Learn how metrics like minutes produced and episodes created showcase the dedication behind every podcast and how Buzzsprout’s Global Stats page can offer a reality check on your podcast's reach, often revealing that you're doing better than you think! Be sure to send in your response to last episode's sound-off! We want you to listen to an older episode of your podcast and tell us one thing you t...
Send us Fan Mail We're sharing over 25 innovative and practical podcast marketing ideas designed to help established podcasters and beginners alike. From guerrilla marketing tactics and in-person event strategies to creative online promotion tips, these ideas are perfect for podcasters on any budget. Learn how to tap into your niche, stand out from the crowd, and turn casual listeners into devoted fans. 2025 PodGoals Survey : Let us know how we can help you achieve your podcasting goals! Join Bu...
Send us Fan Mail What matters more—consistency and content quality or marketing and promotion? Drawing from industry insights, podcasting trends, and our own experiences, we explore the strategies successful podcasters use to grow their audience! Audio quality plays a crucial role in retaining podcast listeners, and we've got some valuable tips to help you achieve great sound without breaking the bank. Drawing parallels from the world of sports, we delve into the importance of self-review, shari...
Send us Fan Mail As apps like BlogTalkRadio, Samsung Podcasts, and Google Podcasts exit stage left, new ones are stepping into the spotlight! We're reviewing a fresh podcast listening app, Queue , which is purported to be the "simplest podcast app out there". Don't forget to submit your response to last episode's sound-off question: Have you ever experienced a podcasting pitfall? What did you learn from it? Contact Buzzcast Send us Fan Mail Tweet us at @buzzcastpodcast , @albanbrooke , @kfinn , ...
Send us Fan Mail Are you unknowingly sabotaging your podcast? We’re diving deep into the biggest pitfalls that trip up even the most seasoned podcasters—and how you can avoid them. From stretching episode lengths (when is it too long?) to finding the right balance with ads, we tackle the choices that can make or break a show’s success. Plus, we're thrilled about all the Buzzsprout podcasters announced in the Women in Podcasting Awards, Kevin gets excited about a cognitive study on speed-listenin...
Send us Fan Mail We’re thrilled to introduce the brand-new Buzzsprout Home Dashboard! After 15 years of landing on the familiar Episodes screen, it’s time for a big upgrade. We’ll dive into how our native apps inspired this new experience and what the Home Dashboard brings to the table for all Buzzsprout users. From instant access to recent episodes and new pacing charts to curated resources to help you grow as a podcaster, this dashboard is designed to make daily podcasting easier. Share your t...
Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we explore the growing influence of podcasts in shaping public opinion and ask: Can podcasts sway elections more than traditional debates? We dive into why presidential candidates, like Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, are hitting the podcast circuit, and how long-form conversations are changing the political landscape. We also discuss the launch of This American Life Partners , their new listener-supported model, and the challenges facing the podcast industry wi...
Send us Fan Mail We're gearing up for the Buzzsprout meetup in Nashville! Our team can't wait to connect with fellow podcasters over tacos, drinks, and some cool swag at the Virgin Hotels Nashville on October 24th from 6:30 to 8:30. Don't forget to RSVP! Contact Buzzcast Send us Fan Mail Tweet us at @buzzcastpodcast , @albanbrooke , @kfinn , and @JordanPods Thanks for listening and Keep Podcasting!...
Send us Fan Mail We're diving into Buzzsprout's latest feature: custom mid-roll placements ! This update gives podcasters more flexibility and control over where ads and dynamic content are inserted into their episodes. Then, we discuss the growing trend of political podcasting and how major figures like Kamala Harris on Call Her Daddy and Donald Trump on This Past Weekend w/Theo Von are leveraging this platform to engage with a younger, broader audience, akin to modern-day fireside chats. Also ...
Send us Fan Mail Chartable is shutting down and rolling into Megaphone on December 12, so what should podcasters use instead? Alban and Jordan break down real Chartable alternatives and how to replace every feature without breaking your RSS prefix or your ad campaign tracking links. We compare OP3 (Open Podcast Prefix Project) for free, IAB-friendly podcast analytics and download tracking; Podgagement and Podstatus for ratings, reviews, podcast rankings, and social proof; and Podtrac for adverti...
