With over 100 million regular podcast listeners, Spotify has established itself as a leading name in the industry. The sheer number of listeners means creators can tap into a vast pool of listeners.
Using private podcasts, you can craft exclusive content that boosts engagement and builds a stronger community. The good news is that this can be done directly on the Spotify platform.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about private podcasts, including the major benefits and how to make a private podcast on Spotify.
TL;DR – Can You Make a Private Podcast on Spotify?
Absolutely! It only takes five simple steps, which we’ll explain in detail later on:
- Create your private podcast.
- Obtain the RSS link.
- Create a Spotify account.
- Submit your podcast.
- Control audience access.
Hello Audio’s easy-to-use platform allows you to create a private podcast and share it with your listeners on Spotify—and it only takes less than 24 hours!
Sign up for a free trial to share exclusive content with your audience!
What is a Private Podcast?
A private podcast is exactly what the name implies – podcasts available to an exclusive audience. Typically, private podcasts require a subscription or invitation to access.
This format is ideal for content creators, businesses, or educators who want to share more premium content with a specific group.
Whether for employees, loyal followers, or clients, private podcasts give creators the freedom to decide who listens to their content.
Differences Between Private and Public Podcasts
All podcasts may have the same goal of sharing content, but there are a few differences between public and private podcasts:
| Feature | Private Podcasts | Public Podcasts |
|---|---|---|
| Access | Private podcasts are shared through exclusive links, login credentials, or special podcast feeds. Only authorized listeners get to listen to them. | Public podcasts are available to anyone on popular platforms like Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and Spotify. |
| Content | Content is more exclusive as it’s tailored to your audience. | Content is often more general, targeting the masses. |
| Monetization | You can monetize private podcasts through subscription fees or by offering premium content to loyal followers. | Public podcasts can be monetized through ads or sponsorships. |
Benefits of Creating a Private Podcast
With 68% of listeners saying they have a deep connection with podcasters, creating a private podcast further strengthens that bond.
Let’s further explore the other benefits of creating a private podcast so you can see how it can improve your content strategy:
Exclusive Content for Your Audience
A private podcast can be compared to a VIP club for your listeners. Only those provided with access can get to enjoy your content.
It’s all about creating that sense of exclusivity, making your audience feel like they are part of something special.
Boost Audience Engagement
Private podcasts give off that feeling as if you were talking to your audience one-on-one, even if you were broadcasting to a crowd. You can cater to your audience’s specific interests. That way, you know they get hooked with each word you say.
Because they’re part of your inner circle, you can form deeper connections with them, which can boost your engagement.
Monetization Made Easier
With private podcasts, you can charge your audience directly. Set up a subscription or membership model and let your exclusive content do all the work.
It’s a simple way to monetize without the hassle of sponsors or lengthy ads.
You Control the Access
You’re in charge of who gets to listen by using private podcasts. You control your audience, whether it’s insider tips, exclusive strategies, or important updates you want to share.
This ensures that the valuable information you share stays within the intended circle.
Build a Loyal Community
Private podcasts are perfect for creators looking to create a close-knit community. Because your audience feels special with the exclusivity, you can build trust and loyalty with your followers.
It could be paying members, top customers, or learners with whom you can create stronger relationships, unlike public podcasts.
Streamlined Business Communication
Yes, businesses, too, can use private podcasts as part of their communication strategy with their employees. After all, it’s a unique and engaging way to keep employees updated.
Share updates, training, or internal news through audio instead of sending lengthy emails to flooded inboxes.
Repurpose Existing Content
If you’ve got a library of videos, articles, webinars, or courses, you can easily repurpose your content with private podcasts.
Your audience can listen to it on the go without you having to create your content from scratch. It’s a win-win for both parties.
How to Make a Private Podcast on Spotify
Here’s a quick guide to help you set up your private podcast on Spotify:
- Create your private podcast: Start by creating podcast episodes through platforms like Hello Audio that support private feeds.
- Obtain the RSS link to your feed: Once your content is ready, get the RSS link from your hosting service.
- Create a Spotify for Podcasters account: Ensure you have an account before proceeding with the next steps.
- Submit your Podcast: Submitting your RSS feed ensures your content is available for listeners to tune in on Spotify.
- Control access with Hello Audio: You can decide who accesses your content. To access a private feed on Spotify, your audience must click the Spotify button to subscribe. They must copy the access code, click the lock icon, and link their Spotify account.
Your followers can enter their email and code to gain access and follow the podcast for notifications.
Best Practices for Engaging Private Podcasts on Spotify
Launching a private podcast isn’t enough; you must work to keep your audience coming back for more.
These are the best practices for creating engaging private podcasts:
Focus on the Topic
It’s easy to go off-tangent when recording your podcast, especially when you’re passionate about the topic.
However, you must stay focused on the topic to keep your audience tuned in.
Remember: Your audience values their time. Keep your episodes packed and concise with relevant content. Keep your messaging clear and direct to maintain direct engagement.
Know Your Target Audience
Knowing your listeners is integral to creating a successful private podcast. Research their preferences, interests, and pain points.
By understanding the persona of your target audience, you can easily personalize your content to fit their interests.
Make sure to utilize listener feedback and analytics to determine if your strategy is resonating with them.
Follow a Schedule
To succeed in podcasting, you must be consistent with your posting schedule. It could be weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly—whatever fits your workflow. This helps your audience anticipate your releases.
Keeping your content flowing will make it easier for your audience to stay loyal to your private podcast. At the same time, it builds momentum. Ensure you don’t lose steam when posting so your audience will likely return for the next episodes.
Invite Guests
Try inviting some guests to switch things up in your private podcast. Interviewing them can add depth and variety to your content. Guests can also provide new perspectives or share their expertise with your audience.
This makes your private podcast more engaging and expands your reach to your guest’s audience, potentially bringing new listeners to your show.
Use High-Quality Audio
More than 50% of listeners favor podcasts with professional-grade audio quality. Investing in high-quality audio equipment is essential to creating a professional-sounding private podcast.
Consider using a good microphone, headphones, and audio editing software to improve sound quality.
Recording in a quiet environment and minimizing background noise can also improve the listening experience.
Ask Listeners Questions
Engaging your audience must go beyond presenting information. You can encourage the listener to react by asking questions throughout the episode.
You can simply ask a question at the end of a podcast episode and let your audience send the answers to your email or social media accounts.
Asking questions can also work both ways. Give your audience the chance to ask questions, and you can address them in future episodes.
Now that you know how to create engaging podcasts, it’s time to simplify the entire podcasting process with the right tools. Hello Audio allows you to easily host, manage, and share your private podcasts while giving you control over who accesses your content.
With Hello Audio’s user-friendly platform, you can easily do all of this — no technical expertise required.
Sign up to repurpose your existing content and boost your engagement with private podcasts!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Got questions? Below are some of the most commonly asked questions to help you better understand how private podcasts work and how to get the most out of them.
What Content Works Best for a Private Podcast?
You can use different forms of content for a private podcast. Courses, books, blog content, and newsletters are such examples.
These must be exclusive and educational to be truly effective in a private podcast setting.
How Do I Track Engagement Metrics for My Private Podcast?
You’ll need a platform that provides all the data you need to track engagement metrics for your private podcast.
Hello Audio gives you an idea of your listeners’ play time and most liked podcasts.
Are There Any Costs Associated with Hosting a Private Podcast?
Yes, the costs associated with hosting a private podcast are typically minimal.
Hello Audio’s pricing starts at $14 monthly for the Starter Plan. Those looking for more can choose the Pro and Professional plans, which are available at $39 and $81 monthly, respectively.
Conclusion – How To Create a Private Podcast on Spotify
Creating a private podcast has immense benefits for creators. It increases listener engagement, builds a deeper connection with your audience, and offers exclusive, value-adding content.
With popular platforms like Spotify making it easy to distribute private podcasts, now is the perfect time to use them as part of your content strategy.
Hello Audio makes creating private podcasts effortless by offering an intuitive platform that lets you manage everything seamlessly. You can easily repurpose existing content into a podcast format, maximizing the previous value of your work without starting from the ground up.
Are you ready to get started? Try Hello Audio today!
