Podcast hosting platforms store your audio content and distribute it globally. We analyzed the terms of service from leading platforms to help creators understand content rights and data practices.
Podcast hosting platforms provide storage, distribution, and analytics for audio content. These services control how your content reaches listeners across platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts. Their terms of service govern content ownership, licensing rights, monetization, and what happens to your show if you leave the platform.
| Platform | Score | Grade | Content Rights | Monetization Control |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Podbean Best in Category | 65 | B- | You retain rights | Platform options |
| Libsyn | 58 | C+ | You retain rights | Full control |
| Buzzsprout | 52 | C | You retain rights | Full control |
| Spotify for Podcasters Lowest in Category | 45 | C- | Broad license granted | Platform controlled |
Full-featured platform with built-in monetization. Platform-integrated ads may have content implications. Best in Category.
Read Full Review →Industry veteran with strong content ownership terms. Complex pricing tiers and some legacy terms in agreements.
Read Full Review →User-friendly hosting with good content ownership terms. Clear data practices but some analytics limitations on lower tiers.
Read Full Review →Free hosting with Spotify integration. Broad content license and limited control over monetization and distribution. Lowest in Category.
Read Full Review →Our analysis evaluates terms of service based on content ownership rights, licensing requirements, data portability, monetization control, and content removal policies. Podcast platforms receive particular scrutiny for what rights they claim over your audio content and listener data.