Simplecast

Active

Country: United States (US)
Founded: 2013
Developer: Simplecast
Pricing: Freemium with plans starting from Basic ($20/mo, 20k downloads)
Open source: No
Platforms: Web

Indexes

Podcast Creation

Overview

Simplecast is a web-based podcast hosting, distribution, and analytics platform launched over 10 years ago. It enables podcasters to publish episodes to directories like Apple Podcasts and Spotify, track listener metrics including unique listeners via device fingerprinting, and access unlimited storage and uploads. Targeted at independent creators and growing networks, it provides enterprise-level tools such as IAB-certified analytics, dynamic ad insertion, and customizable websites without storage caps, though monthly download limits apply per plan.¹⁴⁵

Key Features

Podcast Hosting & Distribution - Unlimited storage and one-click publishing to Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other directories.
Unique Listeners Analytics - Tracks individual listener devices using anonymized fingerprints without storing personal data.
IAB-Certified Analytics - Provides metrics on downloads, locations, devices, web player retention, and audience insights.
Dynamic Ad Insertion - Supports customizable ads with targeting, blocking, and real-time revenue reporting.
Customizable Website - Generates themed show websites with shareable players and social media clips.
Web Player Analytics - Analyzes listener behavior on Simplecast sites and embedded players.
Recast Feature - Enables creation of short clips for social sharing.

Pricing

Plan	Price	Includes
Basic	$20/mo	20,000 monthly downloads, basic analytics, shareable players, Recast, website.
Essential	$50/mo	50,000 monthly downloads, detailed analytics.
Growth	$125/mo	125,000 monthly downloads, advanced features.
Professional/Enterprise	Custom	Customizable download caps, dynamic ads, advanced reporting.

Platforms & Requirements

Simplecast operates entirely as a web platform accessible via any modern browser on desktop or mobile devices. No downloadable apps or specific hardware requirements are mentioned; it relies on standard internet connectivity. Download limits are enforced monthly per plan, with notifications for upgrades rather than cutoffs.⁴⁵

Integrations & Ecosystem

Apple Podcasts
Spotify
Dynamic ad networks
IAB analytics standards
Social media sharing
RSS feeds
Web embeds
API access implied via analytics

Alternatives

App	Difference
Buzzsprout	Offers fixed pricing without download limits but less emphasis on unique listener fingerprinting.
Libsyn	Provides unlimited bandwidth on higher plans with strong monetization but dated interface compared to Simplecast's modern analytics.
Megaphone	Enterprise-focused with advanced ads, higher cost, less accessible for indie creators.
Transistor	Unlimited downloads standard, private podcasting emphasis, fewer ad tools.

Reputation

Simplecast is regarded as user-friendly for beginners with strong analytics like unique listeners and IAB certification, praised for unlimited storage and ease of distribution. Criticisms center on monthly download caps that require upgrades for growth, unlike unlimited bandwidth competitors. It holds a solid reputation for indie and mid-tier podcasters seeking modern tools without enterprise pricing.⁴⁵

Sources (7)