Thinking about adding video to your podcast? With 25% of podcast consumers now preferring to watch rather than just listen, video podcasting has become one of the biggest trends of 2025.
As platforms like YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts enhance their video capabilities, now’s the perfect time to expand your show’s reach through visual content.
Why to consider video podcasting in 2025
The Verge reported over one billion people are watching YouTube for podcast content monthly. And Spotify for Creators and Apple Podcasts – well, they’re both actively pushing their video podcasting features too.
This makes now the perfect opportunity to tap into the growing demand for visual storytelling. Of course, choosing the right platform for your video podcast is critical for reaching new audiences.
Should you simply turn your audio-only show into an audiogram and load it to YouTube? Maybe.
Perhaps you should record your episodes from a YouTube first perspective and strip the audio to load to your podcast host as an audio-only option.
Which is best? The truth is it depends on the podcast host, their desire to have an on camera presence (or lack thereof!), and the demands of their audience.
There is something truly special about the audio-only format. It feels more intimate. But, if people are demanding video podcasts, and you want to provide that to your audience, it’s important to decide how you’re going to go about it.
Understanding Video Podcast Distribution Options
Traditional RSS feeds have significant limitations when it comes to video content. While audio podcasts can easily distribute across all platforms through RSS, video requires a different approach.
Most podcast directories were originally built for audio, and even though some now support video podcasts, the experience varies dramatically between different apps.
For example, Apple Podcasts supports video, but playback is limited to their app, while Spotify for Creators only recently expanded their video podcast capabilities. And, Spotify limits playback to their app as well. These inconsistencies highlight why relying solely on RSS for video distribution limits your reach.
Why adopt a multi-platform approach?
A multi-platform strategy helps you capitalize on each platform’s unique strengths:
- YouTube excels at discoverability with its powerful search algorithm
- Spotify offers excellent integration with their growing podcast ecosystem
- Apple Podcasts provides access to their dedicated listener base
- RSS.com’s PodViz technology creates professional videos from audio
By distributing your content across multiple platforms, you maximize your potential audience and create multiple entry points to your show.
Balancing audio and video content
The key to successful video podcasting is creating content that works in both formats. Your episodes should still deliver value to audio-only listeners while offering visual enhancement for viewers.
Consider these approaches:
- Design your podcast to be “audio-first” with video as a complementary element
- Use visuals to enhance understanding but don’t make them essential
- Add chapter markers with images to improve navigation for video viewers
- Include visual references like charts or images only when they add significant value
Pro Tip: Describe in detail anything that an audio-only listener won’t be able to see visually.
For example, “Look at this” or “I can’t believe what you’re wearing right now!” won’t make much sense to an audio-only listener. But, describing it for the folks that aren’t watching helps them feel included.
It’s also worth noting that video files require more storage and bandwidth than audio.
RSS.com’s PodViz technology offers a solution by automatically converting your audio episodes into engaging videos, making it easier to maintain both formats without doubling your production work. But more on that in a moment.
Top Video Podcasting Platforms
When it comes to showcasing your podcast visually, there are several excellent platforms to consider in 2025. Each offers unique features that can help you reach new audiences and enhance your content. Let’s explore the best options for video podcasting and see which might be right for your show.
YouTube: The Video Giant
YouTube remains the powerhouse of video content with over 2 billion monthly active users. As a podcaster, this massive audience offers unparalleled opportunities for discovery through YouTube’s sophisticated search and recommendation algorithms.
The platform’s biggest advantages include:
- Free video hosting with unlimited video uploads
- Powerful discoverability through search and recommendations
- Monetization options once you meet eligibility requirements
- Community features to engage directly with viewers
However, YouTube does have limitations for podcasters. It doesn’t create an RSS feed for your content, meaning your videos won’t automatically distribute to podcast apps. You’ll need a separate podcast hosting solution (like RSS.com) to maintain presence in traditional podcast directories.
YouTube works best for podcasters who can create visually engaging content and are willing to optimize for the platform’s algorithms. Success often requires consistent uploading, thumbnail optimization, and active community engagement.
If you love the idea of having your podcast on YouTube, but don’t want to invest in video equipment or spend hours on camera, RSS.com’s PodViz technology offers the perfect solution.
PodViz automatically converts your audio episodes into professional-looking videos that can be published directly to YouTube with just a few clicks.
Unlike similar tools, PodViz creates videos with:
- Higher resolution than YouTube’s native RSS ingestion
- Custom waveform animations that react to your audio
- Automatic chapter integration with chapter art for easy navigation
- One-click publishing directly to your YouTube channel
The best part? There’s no need for video editing skills or additional software. Simply upload your audio episode to RSS.com, and we handle the conversion and publishing process. This streamlined workflow lets you focus on creating great content rather than managing complex video production.
With RSS.com, you can embrace video podcasting without sacrificing your audio-first approach. Maintain the intimate, conversational style that podcasting excels at while still tapping into YouTube’s massive audience.
Watch our video about how to start a video podcast in 2025, and skip to minute 13:25 to learn more about PodViz:
Vimeo: Professional Video Hosting
For podcasters seeking a more professional and customizable video platform, Vimeo offers an attractive alternative to YouTube. While smaller in audience size, Vimeo positions itself as a premium platform focused on quality over quantity.
Key benefits of Vimeo for video podcasts include:
- Ad-free environment ensuring uninterrupted viewing experiences
- Advanced privacy controls for managing who can access your content
- Highly customizable player that can match your brand identity
- Professional presentation that appeals to certain audience segments
These premium features come with a cost though. Vimeo operates on a freemium subscription model with plans starting at free for the most basic features. Higher tiers start at $12/month and unlock additional storage, analytics, and team collaboration tools.
Like YouTube, Vimeo doesn’t generate an RSS feed for podcast directories, so you’ll still need a dedicated podcast hosting service like RSS.com to distribute your content to podcast apps.
Vimeo is ideal for creators who prioritize brand control and professional presentation over maximum reach, particularly if you monetize through direct support models rather than advertising.
Spotify Integration for Video Episodes
Spotify has certainly thrown its hat into the ring in embracing video podcasts, establishing itself as a major player in podcasting. What makes Spotify unique is its dual nature as both a music streaming service and a podcast listening platform.
Here’s how to publish video episodes if you’re not hosted with Spotify:
- Log in to Spotify for Creators
- Find your show in the sidebar and select Episodes
- Click three dots next to an episode, then “Upload video”
- Choose video file from your device
- Preview and publish when ready
The process is straightforward, but as we mentioned earlier, there’s an important limitation to note: video episodes on Spotify are only viewable through Spotify apps and their web player. Your videos won’t be distributed to other platforms.
Still, for podcasters building an audience on Spotify, adding video components through their native tools can enhance engagement without requiring listeners to switch platforms. Fans can easily toggle between audio and video depending on their situation (i.e. listening during a commute, then switching to video when they have time to watch).
While Spotify doesn’t offer the same discoverability as YouTube, its dedicated podcast audience and growing video capabilities make it an increasingly important video podcasting platform to consider in your video strategy.
Wistia: Business-Focused Solution
Wistia has carved a unique niche by focusing specifically on business needs. While traditionally known as a video marketing platform, they’ve expanded to include video podcast hosting capabilities, making it worth considering for business-oriented shows.
What sets Wistia apart is its comprehensive approach to video marketing and analytics.
Here are just a few of their features:
- Detailed viewer engagement data showing exactly when people watch, skip, or rewatch content
- Lead generation capabilities with email capture forms during videos
- Seamless integration with popular marketing automation tools
- Recently added podcast hosting features supporting both audio and video
Pricing starts at $19/month for basic features, with higher tiers unlocking additional options. You can start with a free plan, but it’s quite limited and primarily designed as a trial.
Wistia works best for business podcasts that are part of a broader content marketing strategy. If your primary goal is generating leads or supporting sales efforts, Wistia’s business-focused features might provide value that justifies its cost.
Now, you might be asking yourself, which platform is right for your video podcast? The best video podcasting platform depends on your specific goals and resources. For maximum reach with minimal equipment we recommend you choose RSS.com with PodViz for automatic YouTube publishing.
Then, you can download your video and upload it to other platforms including Vimeo, and Spotify for Creators if you choose to. Many successful podcasters use multiple platforms simultaneously, distributing through RSS.com to all podcast apps while using PodViz to maintain a YouTube presence without additional production work.
Key Features to Consider When Choosing a Platform
When selecting the ideal video podcasting platform for your show, several key factors will impact both your production workflow and your audience’s experience.
Video quality and resolution
Look for platforms supporting at least 1080p HD resolution, with 4K options for future-proofing your content. It’s important to remember however, that higher quality creates better impressions, but requires more bandwidth and storage. RSS.com’s PodViz technology creates videos with superior resolution compared to YouTube’s native RSS ingestion.
Distribution capabilities
The best platforms simplify getting your content in front of audiences across multiple channels. Consider whether you need manual control or prefer automated distribution to podcast directories and social media. RSS.com offers one-click distribution to major podcast platforms plus seamless YouTube integration.
Analytics and insights
Basic metrics like views and engagement are standard, but look for platforms offering deeper insights like viewer demographics, drop-off points, and conversion tracking. These data points help you understand what resonates with your audience and refine your content strategy accordingly.
Monetization options
Your platform should support your revenue strategy, whether that’s advertising, subscriptions, direct support, or a combination. Some platforms offer built-in monetization tools, while others require third-party integration.
Ease of use
An intuitive interface and streamlined workflow save hours of frustration, especially if you’re handling production independently. Consider the entire process from recording to publishing when evaluating user experience.
Cost considerations
Beyond monthly fees, factor in potential expenses like bandwidth overages, premium features, and necessary integrations. Weigh these costs against potential returns in audience growth, monetization opportunities, and time savings.
PodViz technology simplifies how podcasters create video content. Unlike traditional video podcasting that requires cameras, lighting, and extensive editing, PodViz transforms your audio episodes into professional videos automatically.
Here’s how it works: When you upload your audio to RSS.com, PodViz takes your episode artwork and converts it into dynamic visuals with engaging backgrounds and responsive waveform animations. These elements don’t just sit static on screen. They move and pulse with your audio, creating a visually interesting experience that keeps viewers engaged.
The technology also intelligently incorporates your podcast chapters as visual markers in the video, allowing viewers to easily navigate to specific topics. This enhanced navigation is especially valuable for longer episodes or interview-based shows.
When comparing PodViz videos to YouTube’s native RSS ingestion, the differences are clear:
- Higher resolution output ensures your content looks sharp on any screen
- Better text readability improves the viewer experience
- Dynamic waveform animations create more engaging visuals than static images
This workflow is perfect for audio-first creators who want to maintain their existing production process while expanding to YouTube. You don’t have to sacrifice what makes audio podcasting so appealing! Just upload your episode and let PodViz handle the visual translation.
The RunRX Podcast demonstrates how effective this approach can be. By using PodViz to publish their episodes to YouTube, they consistently generate views without adding any additional work to their process.
Their YouTube channel showcases the professional quality PodViz delivers, while their podcast maintains its audio-first approach.
By removing technical barriers to video creation, PodViz allows podcasters to focus on what they do best, creating compelling content, while still reaching YouTube’s massive audience.
Making Your Decision
Choosing the right video podcasting platform comes down to matching features with your specific goals and resources. Start by honestly assessing what matters most for your show:
Technical expertise and time constraints will likely guide your platform choice. If you’re comfortable with video production and have time to create visually dynamic content, platforms like YouTube or Vimeo might be worth the additional effort. But don’t forget, if you want to have your podcast on multiple podcast directories, you will still need an audio-only version of your podcast that has an RSS feed.
What if you’re not camera savvy, and/or don’t have much time to produce a video podcast? If you want to extend your audio podcast to video with minimal extra work, RSS.com’s PodViz offers an automated video podcasting solution that won’t disrupt your current workflow.
Budget considerations naturally play a major role as well. While YouTube offers free hosting, it lacks dedicated podcast features. Vimeo’s more professional tools require a subscription starting around $12/month, and Wistia’s business features begin at $19/month. RSS.com offers comprehensive podcasting features including PodViz starting at just $4.99/month, handling both audio and video needs through a single platform.
Growth potential varies across platforms. YouTube’s recommendation algorithm can significantly boost discoverability for new podcasts, but remember that with RSS.com you can still have your podcast featured on the video platform. Spotify might better serve creators with existing audiences there, but their podcast hosting features leave a lot to be desired! Learn more about why you might want to avoid Spotify here:
Wistia offers advantages for business podcasters focused on lead generation, but again, you can upload your videos there and still have your audio-only show on RSS.com.
Bottom line: Each platform impacts your long-term growth trajectory differently.
For most podcasters entering the wild world of video podcasting, RSS.com offers an ideal balance. Our platform combines robust podcast hosting with innovative video solutions like PodViz, creating a streamlined workflow that doesn’t sacrifice quality or discoverability. You can manage both audio and video distribution from a single dashboard while ensuring your content reaches the widest possible audience.
Ready to try it yourself?
Use code RSSFREEMONTH to get your first month with RSS.com for free! Click here to get started here.
Whether you’re just starting or looking to expand your existing show, our tools make video podcasting accessible to everyone.
