Podcasts are in vogue these days. The number of Americans tuning in to listen to podcasts has doubled from 9% to 17% in 2015 - a development since 2008. Along with the traditional content and visual marketing, communicating via an audio-centric platform is slowly becoming a norm for businesses.
It doesn't matter what industry you are from or how many employees you have - podcasts is something you can jump in and also expect good results from it. I would suggest if you are a small company and want to boost your brand's visibility manifold, then podcast is the way to be.
However, the logistics can pose a problem. "How will we set up a podcast?", "How much will it cost?", "Who's going to manage it?" are just some of the questions that often pop in the minds of the user. If you are also thinking along similar lines, you are not alone.
Understanding and implementing the know-hows to successful run a podcast can pose a problem. However, I have been fortunate enough to use and study a variety of podcast tools. That has given me an idea about the different platforms that can be used to run a podcast.
In this blog, I am going to talk about PodBean - an easy and powerful tool to start a podcast. It is a tool specially designed for executives who have no prior knowledge about coding or any technical aspects.
PodBean allows you to create professional podcasts in minutes without the need for any technical knowledge.
PodBean is a state-of-the-art hosting solution that is perfect for companies that train extensively, running radio sessions, or for ensuring any other kind of internal communication. PodBean boasts of an efficient advertising and crowdfunding platform - something that its competitors are far from the offering.
Let us dig deep into the various parts of PodBean - features, competitors, benefits, pricing and more. I am sure you will like PodBean as much as I did when I first started using it:
Features
PodBean handles all the hassle of starting your podcasts. Since it is easy to operate, even a newbie can learn how to use it without any trouble. Moreover, experts too prefer PodBean because of the full range of features it offers. Before I dig deeper into that in the PodBean review, here's what you should remember:
PodBean is a unique hosting service that is focused on publishing and monetizing podcasts. It has a friendly user interface which makes it a lot easier for users to create, publish and manage podcasts within a short period. Podcasts are the bomb, and PodBean is here to make your job easier.
If you have a podcast and are looking for a reliable platform, you shouldn't look beyond PodBean as it takes care of your end-to-end communication requirements. The following features are going to enthrall you for sure:
1) Website builder and full-featured podcast site
Any website builder needs to be helpful for big and new businesses alike. Small businesses find it incredibly tiring to build their websites. But not with PodBean. PodBean makes the process of building websites seem like a piece of a cake. In fact, the software is designed in such a way that it makes the process trouble-free and fast.
If you are a noob who is still struggling to learn about running podcasts, you will become a pro in no time with PodBean. That's my guarantee to you.
As far as the features are concerned, many tools track particular metrics to produce reports to let you be familiar with how the website is performing. After all - one can't only build a website and leave it to fate. Then there is the security feature that keeps the site safe and does not reveal any critical information.
The ease of setup and use is something to second to none. And my PodBean review would have been incomplete without mentioning this. You have to give it a fair shot to see how awesome it is indeed. I mean if you have a podcast builder, wouldn't you be running a podcast every week? I think so.
2) Reliable cloud hosting for the podcast
The cloud hosting provided by PodBean combines power, reliability, and scalability. It ensures that your media downloads quickly from anywhere in the world. PodBean is powered by Amazon Cloud Networks, and hence, it has one of the best cloud hosting services available ever.
You can be assured of a fantastic service every time you host a podcast in PodBean. Are you as excited as I am?
3) Unlimited storage and bandwidth
Unlimited storage and bandwidth will ensure that you always have the necessary resources to build up a massive podcast network. However, PodBean doesn't dwell much into what "unlimited" really means regarding their service.
Contact the team regarding this in case you do intend on using their web hosting services. Using more than the average resources could land you a penalization notice. This PodBean review isn't to scare you but to let out all the little details and secrets that often get left out.
Therefore, it is important to get clarity on the bandwidth.
4) iTunes and Android play store support
With the app support, you can instantly stream or download podcasts to play offline. You can receive notifications of new episodes so that you can stay updated. You can become more organized with playlists, playlist history, and favorites.
The apps bring in extra features such as play speed adjustment, timer, and sleep functions. They also support lock screenplay, so that you need not unlock your phone every time the screen gets locked while playing.
PodBean has focused much on giving a fantastic experience to the users. It has taken care of all the little things that are otherwise often overlooked or ignored. That is why it is such a beloved tool amongst all kinds of users, companies and more.
5) Search engine optimization for all podcast hosted pages
PodBean provides networkers the perfect opportunity to gain new listeners through Search Engine Optimization. Through this, PodBean is changing the way podcasters can find and attract listeners. Podcasters can now reach new listeners through internet searchers by customizing each link of the podcast episode.
What better than users visiting your website or web pages through a simple search engine check? Any tools that help you boost your Google rankings is worth a try. I had to cover this particular feature in this PodBean review because I want you all to know that.
6) Adding your domain
There are some ways in which you can host podcasts on the internet, but it only takes an exceptional platform to make sure that the podcast reaches the listeners - even without possessing technical knowledge.
You can instantly send your podcast to people fond of listening to the audio recording and using their code you can promote your podcasts on websites, blogs, and even social media. PodBean also comes with its community channel where you can find new listeners and increase your subscribers.
You can customize the fonts, colors, and layouts and integrate it with your branding. It is easy to own a domain or embed own players on the site. There is too much to play around with users from all levels of expertise.
PodBean is a unique hosting service that is focused on publishing and monetizing podcasts. It has a friendly user interface which makes it a lot easier for users to create, publish and manage podcasts within a short period. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, a marketing executive or a Vice President - Podcast fulfills requirements of all kinds of personnel in an organization.
Podcasts are the bomb, and PodBean is here to make your job easier. Do you think the PodBean review is helping you make the right decision?
PodBean monetization opportunity
1) Advertising
The tool provides PodBean Advertisers Market - a solution that is unique to podcasters and businesses to connect with and get into mutually agreed sponsorship deals. But to make that happen, you need to follow the following steps to secure advertising:
a. Log into the advertising account: You can click on any campaigns to get detailed information about the ads. The dashboard is straightforward to use.
b. Apply for campaigns: Click on 'Apply' button for a particular campaign. Select the number of episodes that you want the ads to run in within the select period. It's straightforward especially if you had no prior experience with running paid ads.
c. Interaction with advertisers: Once the advertisers have okay-ed your ad application, you are then requested to upload a sample audio file for consideration.
d. Approve the ad agreement: If the advertisers want to place ads on your podcasts, they will send you an ad agreement. If you need any changes, you can write back to the advertisers.
If the agreement is not okay, you can reject it so that the advertisers can get back with an entirely new understanding as per consensus. The key is to be as transparent as possible from the start so that things get finalized sooner rather than later.
e. Publish podcast with ads: After you and the advertiser sign an agreement, you will have to record the advertisement and place it in your podcast episode. Then click on 'Add Published Episode' on the campaign page to submit the incident to the advertiser.
f. Receive payments: Once the episode is approved, funds will release to your credit card. Simple, isn't it? The PodBean review would have been incomplete without it.
2) Premium content
It is super convenient to access the premium content on PodBean. Once on the website, the user will have to log in using those log in details. He or she will find all the premium content under the 'Premium Content' tab. The premium content can also be accessed through the PodBean mobile app as well. Which one are you going to choose?
3) Crowdfunding
Patron campaign is the best way to raise funds. Crowdfunding through PodBean is an easy way to manage and earn donations - whether you have a hosting account with PodBean or not. This is a standalone platform only for crowdsourcing.
All you have to do is follow the following steps for the right results:
a. Add a tagline: It is a call to action for people to support your campaign. It shows your logo and remains the same for the shares on social media.
b. Include a video: It is the best way to record your voice. Get personal about your story and the cause. Create a human connect, an emotional account to engage more and more people.
c. Share a great story: Talk about yourself, what you are going to do with all the fan support. Hold the listeners emotionally, make them feel to be a part of your journey. If you can do that correctly, you will have no problem raising funds for your cause.
Always remember - PodBean is just a platform for you to let the world hear your story. Therefore, make the most of it.
PodBean pricing
The pricing starts from $3 to $99 providing packages to people based on the scale and need. They provide services from anyone who just started with the Podcast starter pack to big businesses with Podcast for the Business pack.
The minimum storage space that you can get is 100MB. For $9, $29 and $99 pricing packages, get unlimited space. As far as the bandwidth is concerned, the primary pricing plan will get you 100GB and is unmetered for the remaining of the packages offered by PodBean.
Though most of the essential features are available to all the packages, premium packages get access to more features. Though it is not needed for most, priority support is available for Business subscriptions only. Custom design, premium domain and the flexibility of mapping your field are not available for the initial package.
But you need to sell out as less as $9 to get hold of these features. Are you willing to do that for your business? I think this PodBean review has convinced you enough. I am sold!
Either which way, whichever package you choose will provide you with all the benefits necessary to carry on a task; which is the most viable solution for you and your business? Let me know.
PodBean clients
If you start using PodBean, you will join the league of top-notch companies that are not only using PodBean but also enjoying it a lot. Many top stations host their podcasts on PodBean. The clients come from various professional activities such as news, chat shows and more.
Some of the most significant clients are of PodBean are BBC, CNN, NASA, and ESPN. This clearly shows that world-famous brands are not only making use of the tool but also greatly benefitting from it. Otherwise why else would a company like BBC even think of using PodBean?
What are your thoughts?
PodBean Advertising
PodBean provides effective advertising to their consumers. The PodAds (yup, that's what they are known for) connect you to engaged audiences and target your podcasts to different types of audience sizes and geographies you want to reach.
You have total control over your budget so that you can decide how much you want to spend and set up targeted campaigns. You can set up daily budgets, targeting combinations, CPM rates, and ad slots - and run the campaign how you like. I think it was necessary to cover this point in PodBean review.
Competitor comparisons
Look, PodBean isn't the only tool in the market to offer those services that it does. Therefore, it is necessary for us to give a fair chance to other similar devices out there in the market. My PodBean review has included six tools currently being used for a purpose identical to all PodBean users.
Let us have a look:
1) PodBean vs. Soundcloud
An online distribution platform, SoundCloud was founded in the year 2007 with only one objective - to allow its users to record, upload and share their initially produced music and sound bites. Sounds great, isn't it? I think it is pretty cool. Check out it fares against PodBean.
Package: SoundCloud's minimum kit comes for free, but the minimum package for PodBean costs $3. I think the latter may cost you, but it will give you more benefits to enjoy.
Embedding: SoundCloud doesn't support embedding, whereas the problem doesn't exist for PodBean users. You can easily embed your PodBean podcasts on any website you like. It works just like how you would integrate with a social media post on a WordPress blog.
Ease of creating a webpage: PodBean scores high here as you can create beautiful web pages very quickly. SoundCloud doesn't offer that functionality at all.
Hosting: You can host everything on your domain name with PodBean. This service is not available on SoundCloud. Please use PodBean if this feature is something you can't overlook.
Reputation: SoundCloud, in a general sense, is seen as a platform to share music. It is a more individual-driven platform. But not PodBean. That is not how it is perceived. Moreover, the tool is used mostly by businesses that want to run podcasts for brand awareness and lead generation.
2) PodBean vs. Stitcher
Stitcher is a radio service. It is an on-demand internet radio service, focusing on news and information on podcasts and radio programs. Founded in 2007 with an aim to broadcast news through the audio medium. It is available on iOS and Android both. Check out it fares against PodBean.
Offline listening: PodBean allows you to download files to listen to offline, the same isn't possible with Stitcher on Kindle. And that is not cool at all!
Pricing: Stitcher premium is available for $4.99 a month, whereas PodBean offers premium services for $9 a month. But PodBean offers many more features for the amount, so there is no competition between the two tools.
Web page quality: PodBean offers variety in customizing your webpage as compared to Stitcher which has limited options for webpage customizations. I would like the flexibility to make custom changes. What about you? Are you like me or not?
Hosting: PodBean offers users to create their domain so that all the content can be available in one place. Stitcher is not that advanced for sure, and if you want to have your field, PodBean is the best choice for you.
3) PodBean vs. Podcast Addict
There is a mobile app on Android that manages all the podcasts on the app. It consists of simple features such as bookmarking, note-making, and sorting out un-played podcasts lists and more. You can play Series like "Couples Therapy" on Podcast Addict. Let us check out how it fares against something like PodBean.
Design: UI design is hugely cluttered in Podcast Addict whereas PodBean provides a clean design that the user can customize very quickly, on their own. What more does a user want?
Price: There's a free version of Podcast Addict that is available to the user, but it comes with ads. The minimum amount of the package for PodBean is $3 per month.
Customization: The level of customization that PodBean offers is higher than Podcast Addict. And you really can't fight that. Can you? In this time and age, everybody needs a little customization.
4) PodBean vs. Overcast
Founded in the year of 2014, Overcast is an iOS app to download and play podcasts. Used by many journalists, it has been named as the best podcast listening app by the likes of The Verge and The Sweet Setup. You can play Podcasts on iPhone, iPad and Apple Watch. Check out it fares against PodBean.
Support: Overcast is iOS only. But as far as PodBean is concerned, it is available for Android as well as iOS users. No matter which device you are using, PodBean will never let you down; you will always be satisfied with the services it offers.
UI: The UI design of overcast is not organized and visually speaking - not all that great. PodBean provides an excellent UI design that is simple and easy to maneuver. But we have said this before, haven't we? Using it will be like a cake. You will enjoy PodBean thoroughly.
Queueing: Queueing of your favorite songs is a tiring process with Overcast. PodBean has quick and easy ways to queue up your favorite songs. Which tool will you finally choose?
5) PodBean vs. Pocket Casts
Often described as the best podcast app for Android, Pocket Casts lets the user listen and share up to 3,00,000 podcasts in the spectrum. It has a robust search option that enables you to discover the podcasts easily. There is also a plethora of dark and light themes offered by Pocket Casts.
Check out it fares against PodBean.
Sync: Pocket Casts doesn't sync with Google Reader. Such problem doesn't arise with PodBean that lets the user sync with the Google product rather quickly.
Queuing: Queueing isn't possible in Pocket Casts. You can queue your favorite podcasts easily with PodBean. I don't think I need to tell you which tool you should finally pick up.
Location: You can switch the position in PodBean, but Pocket Casts doesn't allow you to do that. PodBean is more flexible than this tool will ever be. It looks like we have a clear winner. What are your thoughts on this?
6) PodBean vs. CastBox
CastBox has the most straightforward UI out of all the podcast apps you may have come across. Just like Pocket Addict, CastBox also helps the user in discovering new podcasts quickly on the app itself. VB, Tech In Asia, Entrepreneur, Observer and more use CastBox. Check out it fares against PodBean.
Exclusive Content: CastBox doesn't contain any exclusive content and not a massive selection of music is available on CastBox. But PodBean offers all kinds of content - keeping in mind its diverse user base.
Pricing: Where CastBox does have a free package, it doesn't contain many features. The most basic kit from PodBean comes for $3. And I think it is not a significant amount to avail the plethora of features that the latter offers.
Themes: Castbox offers you only four items. PodBean provides you with a variety of subjects for you to choose from. My PodBean review would have been incomplete with me telling you this. What are your thoughts? I think PodBean is the right choice here.
Conclusion
PodBean allows you to create professional podcasts in minutes without the need for any technical knowledge. It provides a bunch of beautiful themes to choose from that will enable you to customize your domain in your way. What more do you want?
Moreover, when it comes to analytics and security of the domain, PodBean is second to none. If you are looking forward to starting a podcast, you should not see beyond PodBean as it is a complete package of performance, looks, ease of working and comfort of setting up, analytics, advertising and just having the flexibility to run podcasts quickly and hassle-free.
If you have a podcast and are looking for a reliable platform, go for PodBean as it takes care of your end-to-end communication requirements.
So, what are you waiting for? Get started today!