The Best Video Podcast Platforms

Video podcasts have taken the world by storm. Over the past three years, YouTube has jumped up to become the go-to for podcast listeners to consume their favorite shows. 

Video podcasts aren’t always watched, sometimes they may be turned on in the background. But even so, it’s clear podcast listeners love a visual element as an additional option. Video podcasts combine the visual storytelling from video content with the accessibility of audio-first podcasts. 

But where can you catch these video podcasts? There are more platforms than YouTube for hosting and tuning into video podcasts. Choosing the right video podcast platform for hosting and distributing your show is crucial to reaching and engaging your audience. Here’s our take on the best video podcast platforms out there. 

What makes Video Podcasts Different?

So, what exactly are video podcasts? They’re essentially podcasts that feature video content alongside the audio. Unlike traditional audio podcasts, video podcasts offer a visual element that can enhance the storytelling experience. 

With video podcasts, creators can use visuals to better illustrate their points, connect more personally with viewers, and potentially capture a wider audience.

Yet, they are still podcasts, the focus and core content should always be on the audio. A video podcast should be able to still be consumed without video. The video should be an addition, not the core.

Can I host my video podcast with my RSS feed?

Yes and no, it depends on where you are hosting your RSS feed. Some sites, like Podbean and Spotify for Podcasters, support a video feed. Others may not, but distribution on YouTube and Spotify allows you to add your video content.

In this blog, we are covering the best video podcast hosting platforms that let you upload video directly. But if you need more information about getting your video content onto YouTube from another RSS host, this blog might help: How to Start A YouTube Podcast

Top Video Podcast Platforms

There are many options out there for video podcasting platforms, each has its strengths, but you’ll want to evaluate which is the best for your show. Here’s a look at some of the top platforms.

YouTube

YouTube is the platform for video podcasts. It recently has taken over as the preferred podcast platform for listeners, ahead of Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

It boasts over 2 billion logged-in users per month, making it one of the best places to grow your audience. With YouTube, you can monetize your content through ads, memberships, and super chats during live streams. The platform's robust analytics help you understand your audience and tailor your content accordingly. Plus, YouTube is highly searchable,  in fact, it’s the second-largest search engine out there.

Further Reading: Podcasting on YouTube

However while YouTube is great for disturbing content and getting your podcast in front of a large audience, it does not create RSS audio feeds. So if you want to distribute your podcast anywhere else, you’ll need another hosting service. If you don’t share it anywhere else, well then you have a YouTube channel, not a podcast.

Spotify & Spotify For Podcasters

Spotify has greatly embraced video podcasts, making it a great choice for distributing your video podcast. Spotify recently made it possible for all creators to upload video versions of their shows.  

The platform's integration of audio and video content enhances user engagement. Viewers can switch between audio and video, offering flexibility that many users love. 

Like YouTube, Spotify is free to host. But a major plus is that Spotify for Podcasters will support audio-only RSS as well so you can easily distribute your show across multiple platforms.

Also, if you happen to host your podcast on another platform, Spotify makes it easy for you to still upload your video content for free.

Podbean

Podbean has long been a favorite podcast hosting site, and now they’ve updated their design to host video podcasts as well. This is a game-changer.

Much like Spotify for Podcasters, you can host all your podcast content in one spot. Upload your audio and video and distribute them to channels accordingly. Beyond this feature, Podbean also offers features like live streaming and monetization. 

Podbean has different subscription solutions for podcasters depending on the services they need. Video podcasting plans start at $29/month.

Libsyn

Libsyn has been a leading podcast hosting, distribution, and monetization platform since 2004.  Following the trends of podcasting, they have also become one of the best video podcast platforms.

Like Podbean, creators can upload video and audio and distribute it to the podcast channels they prefer.

Plans with Libsyn start at $7 but with an additional $20 a month for video.

Castos

Castos offers hosting services, as well as production and promotion services. If you opt for their hosting services you can use both audio and video. Video file hosting starts at $99/month, but it also includes features like YouTube republishing, a podcast website, advanced analytics, and AI-powered transcripts.

Vimeo

Vimeo is another great option for video-first focus. However, it is a video host, not a video podcasting host. 
Known for its high-quality video hosting services, Vimeo offers tools tailored for video creators. You can customize your video player and even implement pay-per-view or subscription-based access to your content. 

They do have a smaller audience than YouTube, and don’t offer a solution for RSS hosting, nor separate podcasts in their content. This means this would act only as a home for your video content, but you’ll need to find a podcast hosting platform to distribute your show.

Wistia

Wistia is an all-around great video marketing tool designed for businesses to create, host, market, and analyze video content. It provides a range of tools that enable brands to effectively manage their video assets and enhance customer engagement through video.
Recently they’ve expanded to also offer video podcast hosting. Through this service, you can also host the audio of a podcast, and distribute it to major platforms like Apple Podcasts, and Spotify.

While they do offer a free plan, paid plans starting from $19/month give you much more space for hosting and extra features. 

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Video Podcast Platform

Everyone’s show has different goals and different formats. When selecting the best video podcast platform for your show, there are several key factors you should keep in mind.

Ease of Use

A user-friendly interface can save you a lot of time and frustration. Look for platforms that simplify the publishing process, both for audio and video. The learning curve should be minimal, so you can focus on creating content rather than figuring out complex tools.

Distribution and Reach

Your chosen platform should help you reach as wide an audience as possible. Consider how easily the platform integrates with other podcast directories. The more places your video podcast appears, the greater your chance of growing your audience.

Final Thoughts on Video Podcast Platforms

If you’ve gone the route of video podcasts, then choosing the right video podcast hosting platform is key to its success. 

When it comes down to it, you’ll definitely want your show on YouTube, but that may not be the best place to host the original content.  Spotify for Podcasters or a classic service like Podbean or Libsyn may be best for keeping all your podcast data in one place.

Evaluate your needs and goals to pick the platform that best aligns with you. And if you ever need help getting your video podcast up and running, get in touch with Lower Street.