Spotify is launching a new landing page to serve its podcasting community, and it’s equipping creators with the data they need to best employ its array of tools. During an event called Play On, Spotify shared stats about its best-performing shows while also previewing the new Spotify for Podcasters hub.
Play On was attached to Stream On, Spotify’s annual look at its current and upcoming initiatives. While the headlines from the latter event involved Spotify-exclusive podcasts, Play On offered tips that can apply to any show on the platform. Visitors to the new version of Spotify for Podcasters can utilize all of the company’s interactive tools, including its polls and Q&As.
One of the hub’s newest features is Podcast Chapters, which lets creators split their shows into multiple segments. Spotify users who want a closer connection with the platform’s community can use the podcasting hub to apply for Spotify Labs, a program that includes studio access, workshops, and networking opportunities.
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Podcast creators will have more access to Spotify’s toolkit than ever before, and the platform believes that its native features can make a real difference. Spotify Head of Partner Management Jordan Newman hosted a Play On session in which he summarized some of his company’s latest research. Among other findings, Newman revealed that podcasts receive 42% more watch time from listeners who respond to polls or Q&As. Those consumers are also more likely to stick around to hear next month’s episodes.
Spotify’s insights also revealed the upload times creators should aim for across multiple categories. News and fitness shows hit peak activity in the morning, sports and culture content achieves strong listenership throughout the day, and comedy programming generates laughs well into the night. Consumers are also more likely to discover new shows as the day goes on.
Creators can pick and choose their upload times, but at the end of the day, there’s no substitute for a consistent schedule. Spotify revealed that 86% of its shows are “always on,” which means that their new episodes are uploaded regularly throughout the year. 75% of Spotify’s listeners exclusively engage with non-seasonal programming.
The takeaways from the Play On presentation are clear: the life of a podcaster is always busy, and Spotify’s library of features can make life easier for audio creators. For more info about the company’s latest announcements, head over to its official blog.
