Opening your podcast analytics dashboard can be depressing. But often, that is because you are looking at the wrong numbers. Most podcasters obsess over "Total Downloads," but a download is just a file transfer—it doesn't mean anyone listened. In this episode, Mark explains the difference between Vanity Metrics (Downloads) and Reality Metrics (Retention). Learn how to use Spotify's "Consumption Charts" to see exactly where listeners are turning off your show, and how to use that data to make better content.
Show Notes
The "Download" Myth:
A download happens when a phone saves the file. It does not confirm playback.
Automatic Downloads: Many apps download episodes that sit unplayed for months.
IAB Certification:
Why you need a host that filters out bots and duplicate requests.
The "God Metric": Retention:
Available in Spotify for Podcasters and Apple Podcasts Connect.
Shows the "Drop-off curve."
The Dip: If 20% of people leave at minute 5, go listen to minute 5. Did you start rambling? Did you play a long ad?
Benchmarks:
Top 50% of podcasts get ~30 downloads per episode.
Top 1% get ~4,000.
Don't compare yourself to Joe Rogan.
Mark at onpodium.com
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