Introduction to Private Podcast | Hubhopper Paid Plan

A private podcast is a podcast that is not publicly accessible to everyone. Unlike typical podcasts that are available on popular platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Google Podcasts for anyone to discover and listen to, private podcasts are restricted to a specific audience.

Private podcasts are often used for various purposes, such as:

1. Internal Communication: Some organizations use private podcasts as a means of internal communication. They create episodes that are only accessible to employees, providing a convenient and engaging way to share updates, training materials, or company news.
2. Membership Content: Content creators, educators, or businesses may create private podcasts for a select group of subscribers or members. These subscribers typically pay for access to exclusive content, such as bonus episodes, premium content, or in-depth discussions.
3. Educational Purposes: Schools, universities, or training programs might use private podcasts to deliver educational content to enrolled students. This can include lectures, study materials, or additional resources accessible only to the specific class or group.
4. Limited Distribution: Some podcasters may choose to create private episodes for a limited audience, such as a specific group of friends, family members, or a niche community.

To access a private podcast, listeners often need an invitation or a specific link provided by the podcast creator. The podcast episodes are not searchable or available to the general public, maintaining exclusivity for the intended audience.

How To Create a Private Podcast

Private podcasting is exclusively accessible to paid subscribers. To unlock this feature, upgrading your plan beyond the basic level is necessary. After upgrading, follow these steps to create your private podcast:

1. Navigate to the right-hand side of your dashboard and click on "Create podcast."
2. Opt for the 'Create a private podcast' option.
3. Proceed with the regular podcast setup process.
4. Upload your episode and publish your private podcast.
5. Customize your email invite template for your subscribers (optional)
6. To control subscriber access based on their email domain, you can specify a domain. Invitations to the private podcast will only be sent to emails associated with the designated domain.(optional)

This ensures a seamless process for setting up and managing your private podcast content.

How To Add Subscribers to Your Private Podcast

There are three ways to add subscribers to your private podcast. Currently you can add upto 100 subscribers to your private podcast:

1. Direct Invite: Click on 'Subscribers' in the right-hand dashboard of your private podcast, enter the email address, and an automated invitation will be sent.
2. CSV File: For bulk invites, compile multiple email addresses into a CSV file and upload it through your subscribers' dashboard. Read guide
3. Sharable Link: Share a link that potential subscribers can click to easily subscribe to your private podcast.

To remove subscribers from your dashboard, click on 'Remove.' It's important to note that each subscriber receives a unique RSS feed for your private podcast. Once removed from the subscriber list, the unique RSS feed ceases to function for that individual.

Limit Access to Specific Email Domains

This feature is optional. If your podcast is intended for internal communication, you can selectively provide access to individuals with email addresses from a designated domain, like @company.com. While fans can easily subscribe using your shareable link, you can control access by permitting entry solely for those with email addresses linked to a specific domain. Other email domains will not be allowed to subscribe to your private podcast. 

How To Monetise Using a Private Podcast

Monetizing a private podcast involves leveraging the exclusivity of the content to attract and retain a paying audience. Here are some strategies to make money with a private podcast:

1. Subscription Model:
   - Offer premium content or early access to episodes in exchange for a subscription fee.
   - Create different subscription tiers with varying levels of access or exclusive perks.
2. Membership or Patreon Integration:
   - Use platforms like Patreon to set up a membership system where listeners can support your podcast in exchange for exclusive content.
   - Patreon allows you to create tiers with different benefits, such as access to private episodes, Q&A sessions, or merchandise.
3. Corporate Sponsorship or Partnerships:
   - If your private podcast is used for internal communication within a company, consider partnering with relevant businesses for sponsorships or collaborations.
4. Educational Programs:
   - If your private podcast is educational, partner with educational institutions or offer courses alongside your podcast for a fee.
5. Consulting or Coaching Services:
   - Position yourself as an expert in your podcast's niche and offer consulting or coaching services to your private audience for a fee.
6. Exclusive Events or Webinars:
   - Organize exclusive events or webinars for your private podcast subscribers and charge admission fees.
7. Affiliate Marketing:
   - Integrate affiliate marketing into your private podcast by promoting relevant products or services and earning a commission for each sale generated through your unique affiliate link.
8. Ad-Free Listening:
   - Offer an ad-free experience as part of your subscription model. Some listeners are willing to pay to avoid interruptions from advertisements.
9. Merchandise Sales:
   - Sell merchandise related to your private podcast, such as branded apparel or other items, to generate additional revenue.
10. Licensing Content:
    - If your private podcast content has broader appeal, consider licensing it to other platforms or media outlets for a fee.

It's essential to understand your audience and provide value that aligns with their interests and needs. Building a dedicated and engaged community is crucial for the success of any monetization strategy. Regularly communicate with your audience, listen to their feedback, and adapt your approach to meet their expectations.

FAQ

Is this a Paid plan feature?

Private Podcast is a GROWTH plan feature.

Will adding episodes to my private podcast affect my episode credits?

Yes, whether it's a public podcast episode or a private one, your episode credits will be used.

How many subscribers can I add to my Private podcast?

While you have the freedom to generate an unlimited number of private podcasts, each private podcast is capped at a maximum of 300 subscribers.

What if I need more than 300 subscribers?

If you want to have the capability of adding more subscribers, you'd need an Enterprise plan. Please contact our Enterprise Team to get started.

Is it possible to share my private podcast's RSS feed?

The RSS feed for your private podcast is unique to each subscriber. You have the ability to manage access by adding or removing subscribers from your list.

How does one access and listen a private podcast?

Refer to this comprehensive guide for subscribers on how to add the private podcast to their preferred podcast player and enjoy listening.

Can I add my private podcast on my microsite?

You cannot showcase your private podcast on your microsite.

How many email domains can I restrict for my private podcast?

You can restrict only one email domain per private podcast. This is optional.