Podcasting continues its explosive growth in 2025, with millions of shows competing for listener attention. 

For founders, coaches, and CEOs, podcasting is one of the most powerful tools to build authority, connect with audiences, and amplify your personal brand.

But before you can publish your episodes to Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or Google Podcasts, you need a podcast hosting platform—the foundation that stores your audio files, generates your RSS feed, and distributes your show to directories.

Here’s the good news: you don’t need to spend money to get started. 

Several free podcast hosting platforms offer excellent tools, unlimited distribution, and enough features for new podcasters or professionals testing the waters.

This guide will cover the best free podcast hosting platforms in 2025, their strengths, limitations, and how to choose the right one for your brand.

Why Podcast Hosting Matters

Podcast hosting is more than just file storage-it’s your distribution engine. 

Without it, your show won’t appear on major directories like Spotify or Apple Podcasts. 

A good host provides:

• Storage & Bandwidth: Space for episodes and the ability to handle downloads.

• RSS Feed: The feed that platforms use to update new episodes.

• Analytics: Insights into listener behavior and growth.

• Monetization Options: Tools to earn from ads, sponsorships, or listener support.

• Ease of Use: Simple publishing workflows, even for beginners.

The right host makes publishing smooth and stress-free so you can focus on what really matters- your message.

The Best Free Podcast Hosting Platforms in 2025

1. Buzzsprout (Free Plan)

Best For: Beginners and casual podcasters.

• Storage: 2 hours/month free. Episodes hosted for 90 days.

• Analytics: Advanced insights, even on a free tier.

• Monetization: Limited on free plan, upgrades required.

• Ease of Use: Very beginner-friendly with a clean interface.

Pros:
✅ Intuitive dashboard
✅ Great analytics
✅ Easy distribution to major directories

Cons:
❌ Episodes deleted after 90 days on free plan
❌ Limited storage for frequent podcasters

2. Podbean (Free Plan)

Best For: Hobbyists and podcasters testing the waters.

• Storage: 5 hours total storage, 100GB bandwidth/month.

• Analytics: Basic statistics.

• Monetization: Ads and premium options available (paid tiers).

• Ease of Use: Simple publishing and mobile app support.

Pros:
✅ Generous bandwidth
✅ Integrated monetization tools
✅ Reliable platform

Cons:
❌ Hard 5-hour cap on storage
❌ Free plan limits long-term growth

3. Spotify for Podcasters (formerly Anchor)

Best For: Podcasters who want seamless Spotify integration.

• Storage: Unlimited free storage.

• Analytics: Spotify-powered insights.

• Monetization: Ads and listener support available.

• Ease of Use: Record, edit, and publish from one app.

Pros:
✅ 100% free, unlimited storage
✅ Direct Spotify integration
✅ All-in-one creation + publishing

Cons:
❌ Limited advanced analytics outside Spotify
❌ Less customizable than competitors

4. RedCircle

Best For: Indie podcasters focused on growth and monetization.

• Storage: Unlimited free hosting.

• Analytics: In-depth stats and cross-promotion tools.

• Monetization: Donations, ads, and cross-promotions.

• Ease of Use: Modern, intuitive interface.

Pros:
✅ Unlimited storage
✅ Built-in monetization options
✅ Strong indie community support

Cons:
❌ Smaller brand recognition than Buzzsprout/Spotify
❌ Monetization depends on audience size

5. RSS.com (Free Tier)

Best For: Educators, nonprofits, and small-scale podcasters.

• Storage: 1 free show (educational or nonprofit).

• Analytics: Basic stats included.

• Monetization: Limited on free plan.

• Ease of Use: Straightforward publishing and feed creation.

Pros:
✅ Free tier available for certain creators
✅ Easy onboarding
✅ Well-established platform

Cons:
❌ Restrictive free tier
❌ Paid upgrade required for multiple shows

Comparison Table: Best Free Podcast Hosting Platforms (2025)

📊 Free Podcast Hosting: Storage vs. Monetization Strength (2025)

How to Choose the Right Free Podcast Hosting Platform

When picking the best host, ask yourself:

• What’s my podcasting goal? → Hobby, brand authority, or monetization?

• How often will I publish? → Weekly shows need more storage than monthly.

• Do I need monetization now, or later?

• Do I want an all-in-one tool (record + edit + host)?

For most beginners, Spotify for Podcasters or Buzzsprout are excellent starting points. If you’re serious about growing and monetizing, RedCircle offers flexibility.

The Business Case for CEOs, Coaches, and Founders

Free hosting can be a great starting point, but for business leaders who see podcasting as a brand-building strategy, upgrading to paid plans or outsourcing production may be worth it.

• Credibility: A professional podcast reflects your authority.

• Consistency: Paid plans ensure stability and long-term availability.

• Scalability: As your audience grows, your hosting should grow with you.

In 2025, podcasters have more options than ever to get started for free. 

From Buzzsprout’s beginner-friendly dashboard to Spotify’s unlimited hosting, and from RedCircle’s monetization tools to RSS.com’s support for educators, there’s a free platform for every type of creator.

Choosing the right one depends on your goals:

• Testing the waters? → Buzzsprout or Podbean.

• Want unlimited storage? → Spotify for Podcasters or RedCircle.

• Educator or nonprofit? → RSS.com.

No matter your path, free hosting is a low-risk way to launch your show, build your audience, and start your podcasting journey.

A hosting platform gets your podcast online, but great editing keeps listeners coming back. Don’t miss our detailed breakdown on How to Choose the Right Podcast Editing Software to find the best tool for your needs.

🎙️ Your podcast is more than just episodes- it’s your brand voice.

At Command Your Brand, we help founders, CEOs, and coaches go beyond free hosting and build podcasts that grow authority, attract opportunities, and create lasting impact.

👉 Book a call with Command Your Brand today and let’s transform your podcast into a platform that drives business growth and builds your legacy.