I’m not going to sugarcoat this…when a client asks about changing podcast hosts, I always get a little anxious about the idea. No, my eye doesn’t twitch but I do think back to the days when changing podcast hosts and redirecting RSS feeds wasn’t commonplace. These were the times when shows ran the risk of losing subscribers. Yes, those same subscribers show hosts worked long, hard hours to nurture and grow as an audience base.
Some podcast history for how it used to be…
Many years ago, there were only a few podcast hosts in the industry—Libsyn, Podbean, and Blubrry—and not every podcast host is created equal. (Today, there are so many more options for podcasters.)
Fast-forwarding to how things are done today….
Happily, losing subscribers during a planned move is not as typical. However, if you do decide it’s time for a change and you want to move podcast hosts (which also means changing your RSS feed), there are some important points to consider as well as understand! It’s vital to have a plan and follow this plan so no one is left behind when you make the move.
Over time you may come to realize that the provider you are using just isn’t doing everything you want. So, you decide it’s time to move. That’s cool, but be sure you consider these things first:
Your RSS feed is the lifeblood of your podcast! It’s how people subscribe and what you submit to all podcast platforms for people to consume your episodes. When you move hosts, you will get a new RSS feed. The RSS feed is what was initially submitted to places such as Apple and Spotify. Right now, the feed is sourced/created by your current podcast host. If you move, you will get a new feed by the new host. Therefore, you will need to setup a permanent redirect from the old feed to point to the new one. By you, I mean with the help of your old and new podcast host. This is so that you don’t need to have to ask your listeners to re-subscribe to the new feed!
You must ensure that both hosts are on board (and have easy-to-contact support) when moving to another podcast host. Because nothing is worse than being in the middle of a redirect and hearing crickets from one (or both) of your podcast host providers. Some tech issues can happen (just because…tech), which is why I mention the importance of having responsive support to help and ensure you don't drop any podcast subscribers.
My recommendation is to keep your previous podcast host after you move for a limited time period. Most hosts have a basic plan you can utilize. For example, Libsyn has a $5 plan. So, if they were your old host, you could essentially drop to that plan after moving to ensure there is no loss of subscribers. Because even though the RSS feed was redirected when you move, some apps won’t update with the redirect right away (or at all—like with some of the smaller app services).
Other items to consider:
Does the new host have audio embed codes for you to use on your website? Again, not ALL hosts are created equal.
Does the new host provide basic and advanced podcast stats?
Some platforms might not be IAB Certified/Verified. Many of today’s podcast sponsors rely on IAB Verified stats. Some, such as Libsyn, do break out stats by unique downloads versus IAB. This might not be applicable if you don’t plan on opening your show to sponsorship opportunities. However, it is worth noting.
Understanding what kind of stats data the new host has available might be important so that you are aware as to whether or not you will be limited in what you can provide publishers, PR, or others for book or business deals going forward. If you cannot discern from a host’s website, before making the jump, I’d suggest emailing their support to ask!
So, if your show has outgrown your current podcasting host, go ahead and make the move. Just create a plan first and then follow your plan so no subscribers are left behind. And if you’d like a hand, I’m here for you to help however you may need.