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Analytics can guide a show or distract it. The Podcasting Analytics guides explain the main metrics and what to do with them.

They suit new shows with small numbers and older shows looking for patterns.

What the numbers mean

Download numbers explained and what a good number is set a baseline.

Reading dashboards

Reading podcast analytics, Apple Podcasts analytics and Spotify analytics cover the main sources.

Using the data

Retention, listener sources and goal setting turn numbers into decisions.

Analytics at a glance

GuideBest for
DownloadsUnderstanding the basics
RetentionImproving episodes
Listener SourcesJudging promotion
Goals and MetricsMonthly reviews

Monthly review

  1. Check downloads per episode
  2. Look at retention
  3. Note the top sources
  4. Compare to the goal
  5. Decide one change

Good to know

  • Trends matter more than single days
  • Hosts count downloads in different ways
  • Small shows should compare to their own past
  • Retention shows what listeners like

Questions about podcast analytics

What is a good download number?

It depends on niche and age. The benchmark guide gives ranges.

Why do my stats differ between platforms?

Each counts differently. Download numbers explained covers why.

Which metric should I watch first?

Downloads per episode and retention. Reading podcast analytics explains both.