Your Guide to Posting Podcast Reviews Across Different Platforms
You know you want to, here's how!
Podcasts have seen a significant rise in popularity over the past few years, becoming a staple form of entertainment for many of us. Whether it’s commuting to work, exercising, or just unwinding after a long day, podcasts provide a unique blend of entertainment and education.
If you’re a podcast enthusiast, you might be wondering how to show appreciation for your favorite shows — particularly smaller, niche shows that do not have big advertising budgets or celebrity hosts.
One of the best ways is by leaving reviews and ratings. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to leave podcast reviews on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Podchaser.
Why Are Reviews Important?
Before we dive into the ‘how’, let’s understand why reviews matter:
Supporting Your Favorite Podcasts: A review can provide encouragement and valuable feedback for the creators.
Influencing Podcast Rankings: Reviews and ratings help boost the podcast’s visibility, helping it reach a larger audience.
Guiding Potential Listeners: Your review can provide insights for potential listeners and help them decide whether a podcast is right for them.
Now that we know why reviews are important, let’s dive into how to leave a review on various platforms.
But Does it Affect the Algorithm?: Previously, there was a strong conviction among podcasters that snagging a boatload of top-notch ratings and reviews was the secret sauce for climbing the charts on platforms like Apple Podcasts. This was especially believed to be the case with Apple’s rather enigmatic Top Shows and Top Episodes algorithm. It was the kind of common wisdom that you’d nod along to at industry meetups, even if you secretly wondered about its accuracy.
Then, Apple decided to lift the curtain a bit on their algorithmic wizardry. Turns out, the long-held belief in the almighty power of reviews and ratings was more myth than reality. In a somewhat eyebrow-raising revelation, Apple clarified that these factors don’t actually play a role in how podcasts rank in their system.
HOWEVER…Apple elaborated:
“Although ratings, reviews, and shares also help indicate a podcast’s newness, popularity, and quality, they are not factored into the algorithm that determines the rankings for Top Shows and Top Episodes. In other words, they may not help people find a podcast on their own, but they influence whether people will listen or follow, and those factors influence the charts.”
My take: Reviews matter, and not just for show.
A Statista study highlights that a significant chunk of European listeners (39%) and a fair share in the U.S. (27%) turn to Google when hunting for new podcasts. Now, Google’s search algorithm loves a good reputation and positive user vibes. This is where your podcast reviews and ratings enter the spotlight.
They’re not just digital applause; they’re like beacons of credibility to Google’s discerning eyes. The more your audience engages with your podcast through these reviews, the better your chances of popping up on Google’s search results. This isn’t just me talking; it’s SEO gospel.
So, if you’re looking to reel in more ears, getting those reviews should be on your to-do list.
How to Leave a Review on Apple Podcasts
Apple Podcasts is one of the most popular platforms for podcast consumption. Here’s how you can leave a review:
1. Open the Apple Podcasts app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
2. Search for the podcast you want to review.
3. Select the podcast from the search results.
4. Navigate to the podcast’s page, where you’ll find details about the podcast and a list of recent episodes.
5. Scroll down until you see “Ratings & Reviews.” Under this section, tap or click on “Write a Review.”
6. If prompted, sign in with your Apple ID.
7. Write your review. Choose a title for your review, select a rating (1 to 5 stars), and write your thoughts about the podcast.
8. Once you’re satisfied, tap or click “Send” or “Submit” to post your review.
Google Podcasts
As of my last training cut-off in September 2021, Google Podcasts doesn’t support written reviews or star ratings like Apple Podcasts. However, you can show your support by subscribing to the podcast, which helps boost its visibility.
Spotify
While primarily known as a music streaming platform, Spotify also hosts a wide array of podcasts. As of September 2021, Spotify does not have a review or rating system. You can, however, support your favorite podcasts by following them and sharing episodes with your friends.
Podchaser
Podchaser is another popular platform, often dubbed the ‘IMDb of podcasts.’ Here’s how you can leave a review:
1. Visit the Podchaser website at www.podchaser.com.
2. Search for the podcast you want to review.
3. Select the podcast from the search results.
4. Navigate to the podcast’s page, where you’ll find details about the podcast and a list of recent episodes.
5. Rate and review. Click on “Rate Podcast” to give a star rating out of 5. To write a review, click on “Review Podcast,” write your review, and then click on “Submit Review.”
6. If prompted, create an account or sign in.
Sharing is Caring
Remember, leaving a review or rating is not the only way to support your favorite podcasts. Sharing your favorite shows and episodes on social media or with friends is another great way to show your appreciation and to help the podcast gain more listeners.
Now, equipped with this knowledge, go forth and spread the podcast love!
I am the host and producer of two podcasts, Mysterious Goings On, a podcast about writing and creativity, and PR After Hours, a business podcast that focuses on communication and productivity. Give us a listen — and if you like the shows, please leave a review!