Spotify almost changed podcasting forever—by putting all your episode play counts on full display. Imagine every episode’s stats right out in the open, for the world to judge. But then, they backed off. In this episode of Podtastic Audio, I’m breaking down why that change almost happened, why they reversed course, and what it means for us indie podcasters.

As someone who loves podcasting and does it because it's fun (not just for downloads), I dig into:

• Why public play counts might hurt small shows more than help them
• How podcast value isn’t always reflected in numbers
• The power of private growth and real listener impact
• Why you should keep creating even when the numbers seem small

Whether you’re getting 25 plays or 25,000, this episode is for anyone who’s ever felt like the metrics don’t tell the whole story—because they don’t. Podcasting should be about connection, not comparison.

👉 Join me as I share my own journey, thoughts on Spotify’s decision, and why your voice matters more than your views.

The Podtastic Playbook: How to Build, Grow, and Monetize Your Podcast

• Amazon Kindle
• Apple Books
• Barnes and Noble
• Other Bookstores

Podgagement® (formerly “My Podcast Reviews”) is all about simplifying your podcasting and helping you engage your audience and grow your podcast!

Podgagement Link

Over 25,000 podcasters use Podpage! Create your own podcast website that looks great, runs smoothly, and is optimized for search engines. Get started today! Podpage Link

Thanks so much for listening, I really appreciate it so much. Sign up for my newsletter so you never miss a moment. Podtastic Audio Newsletter

• Podtastic Audio
• Twitter X
• Instagram
• LInkedIn
• Threads
• Blue Sky

00:00 – Spotify Almost Reveals All Podcast Stats

00:38 – Welcome & Purpose of Podtastic Audio

01:20 – Podcast Listening Apps: Apple vs. Spotify

02:08 – Spotify's Push for an All-In-One Platform

03:14 – Spotify’s Big Stat Reveal Announcement

04:06 – Should Podcast Stats Be Public?

05:28 – The Indie Podcaster’s Dilemma

06:37 – When Public Stats Actually Help

07:15 – Podcasting for Passion, Not Just Profit

08:14 – Perception vs. Reality in Play Counts

09:03 – Hidden Stats = Equal Opportunity

10:00 – Final Thoughts: Do Stats Reflect Impact?

11:09 – Connect with Me at PodtasticAudio.com

11:34 – Keep Creating Your Amazing Show

#IndiePodcaster #PodcastTips #PodcastGrowth #PodcastCommunity #PodcastMarketing #PodcastStats #SpotifyPodcasts #PodcastAnalytics #PlayCounts #SpotifyForPodcasters #ContentOverClout #CreateDontCompare #ValueNotViews #PodcastConfidence #YouMatter #PodcastAdvice #PodcastSupport #PodcastTools #PodcastHelp #PodcastResources