Simplecast
Podcast hosting and monetization built for networks and serious independents
Best for: Mid-size podcast networks and serious independents who need certified analytics and monetization in one platform
Free trialFrom $15/mo Visit SimplecastSimplecast is a podcast management platform that covers hosting, distribution, analytics, and monetization in a single product. One-click publishing pushes episodes to Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major directories, while its analytics platform tracks unique listeners, episode performance, and geographic data to IAB certification standards. It targets podcasters who have outgrown entry-level hosts and want tighter control over distribution and ad revenue.
Key features
- One-click distribution to Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major directories
- IAB-certified audience analytics (unique listeners, location, technology data)
- Built-in podcast website with custom domain support
- Multi-show management with team permissions
- Embeddable web players (oEmbed-ready)
- Dynamic ad insertion and AdsWizz Marketplace access (Professional and Enterprise)
Our take
Simplecast has held up well as the space has gotten more crowded - it does the fundamentals cleanly, and the IAB-certified analytics are table stakes for any show running direct sponsorships. The inclusion of AdsWizz Marketplace access on the Professional tier is useful for networks that want programmatic demand. At $15/mo for the Basic plan, it's competitively priced, and the 14-day no-card trial means you can properly evaluate it. The gap is on the upper end: dynamic ad insertion and campaign management are only available on custom-priced Professional and Enterprise tiers, which may push smaller shows with ad ambitions toward more transparent competitors.
Pros
- IAB-certified analytics carry credibility for ad sales and sponsorship negotiations
- 14-day free trial with no credit card required
- Clean interface for managing multiple shows with team-based permissions
Cons
- Dynamic ad insertion only available on custom-priced Professional and Enterprise plans
- 20K-50K monthly download caps on base plans may constrain fast-growing shows
- Customer support rated as inconsistent at the Basic tier level
Simplecast pricing
| Plan | Monthly | Annual | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic | $15.00 | - | 2 team seats, unlimited storage, distribution, basic analytics, custom website, 20K monthly downloads included. 14-day free trial. |
| Essential | $35.00 | - | 4 team seats, all Basic features plus episode comparison analytics, location data, unique listener reports, and 50K monthly downloads included. |
| Professional | - | - | Custom pricing. Adds dynamic ad insertion, campaign management, comprehensive reporting, secondary feeds, and priority support. |
| Enterprise | - | - | Custom pricing. Adds API integration, white-labeled RSS feeds, high bitrate audio, programmatic buyer connections, and a dedicated success manager. |
