TWiT 2025 Podcast Advertising Opportunities

As we enter October, it's that time of year when most podcast networks release their 2025 rate cards. Here at TWiT.tv, we are excited to continue with eight public-facing shows. After transitioning to a single-ad model in 2024, we've lowered our quarterly minimum to $20K. This applies to direct business, as agency clients have more flexibility because it's their job to manage their clients. The bulk of our business is direct, which we prefer because our partners trust our expertise, and having an in-house relationship gives us direct access to brands. It allows us to communicate more effectively. Why? Because agencies deal with hundreds of brands and networks, we rarely meet a client or have insights into their growth goals and campaign objectives. All we receive is ad copy, and they select the shows and frequency. A direct relationship means higher success on our network because brands listen to our advice on show selection, frequency, and ad copy. We have brand meetings with our inside hosts so they can ask questions, and we can improve the ad copy before the first ad drops. Given the attention and care we take with our direct partners, we deliver higher results and help brands reach their growth goals faster.

Our core offering is first-tier, host-read, embedded ads. These ads are featured across all our platforms—audio, video, and YouTube. In addition to these embedded ads, we also have digital banner inventory on our website. 

We offer second-tier ads through our partnership with Libsyn Ads. Libsyn Ads inserts dynamically inserted ads in the residual audio inventory for our eight public-facing shows. These audio-only ads can be 15, 30, or 60 seconds long and can be producer-read or host-read. Libsyn also sells our five club shows on an exclusive basis. We release the audio for free to the public, and video content for these shows remains exclusive to our club members. If brands are interested in these ads, they must reach out directly to Libsyn as they bind their own contracts.

We are highly effective for brands because of the deep trust we've cultivated with our audience. On our long-format shows, we deliver just one host-read ad every 20-30 minutes, whereas most podcast networks pack in 5-10 ads per hour. Our hosts take the time to introduce brands properly, with reads lasting 1-6 minutes. This approach allows our hosts the creative freedom to highlight features, benefits, testimonials, and awards—giving a comprehensive introduction that resonates with our audience.

In addition to embedded ads, brands partnering with us receive many added benefits. We simulcast to seven streams (with more on the way) while recording our shows. These live streams reach an audience of 5-10K fans, offering brands free exposure. For our ad-free club members, we drop courtesy commercials in our Discord channel so they know the brands supporting us, providing another layer of free exposure to a growing community of nearly 15K members.

Our partners also enjoy social media promotion and courtesy commercials for use beyond paid media. Plus, our ads are embedded, which means they live in our content forever, and when fans discover our network, brands receive residual impact long after their campaign is over. In 2024, we delivered 20-30% over contracted impressions. Why? We layer in extra ads to account for seasonal softness and mark down our rate card by 5%. When softness doesn't materialize, it's a bonus for our partners.

If your goal is to connect with a tech-savvy, highly educated audience full of decision-makers in tech and business, then let's chat and discuss your growth goals and campaign objectives. We are here to elevate your brand.

Contact us: Advertise@twit.tv

Six Essential Strategies for Measuring Your Podcast Campaign ROI

 

I'd like to share insights on effectively measuring podcast campaign success. My extensive experience in the industry has taught me valuable lessons about tracking and evaluating the impact of podcast advertising.

First, it's essential to understand that only some things can be tracked. At TWiT, we stream our shows live on multiple platforms, reaching thousands of fans. These live views aren't trackable, which means our brand partners receive bonus exposure that isn't reflected in standard metrics.

Now, let's discuss how to effectively measure podcast ad campaigns:

1. Set realistic expectations: Podcast consumption is on-demand, so campaigns can take up to eight weeks to reach full impact. Patience is vital when evaluating results.

2. Monitor ad impressions: Track episode downloads and review impression updates regularly. At TWiT, we provide weekly audio, video, and YouTube impressions updates.

3. Analyze direct response metrics: While landing page visits and offer code usage are valuable tools, remember that they don't tell the whole story. Many listeners, especially in tech-savvy audiences, will bypass these methods.

4. Utilize podcast ad tech: We offer Spotify Ad Analytics and Podscribe for comprehensive tracking. These tools provide insights into listener behavior and ad effectiveness.

5. Diversify advertising channels: Converting a listener often takes 7-15 touchpoints. To maximize reach and effectiveness, we recommend pairing podcast ads with other forms of advertising.

6. Implement post-purchase surveys: This often-overlooked tool can provide crucial insights into how customers discovered your brand.

Remember, genuinely gauging a podcast campaign's success requires combining these tools and approaches. Allow time for the ad to make an impact, and if you see traction, consider maintaining consistency in your campaign.

At TWiT.tv, we're committed to helping our partners achieve their advertising goals. If you're interested in exploring podcast advertising opportunities with us, please contact me directly at Lisa @ twit.tv. We'd be happy to discuss your campaign objectives and how we can support your growth.

Changes at TWiT.tv - Embracing Change and Impermanence

 

I understand that changes, cancellations, pivots, and new content announcements can sometimes be met with negativity. However, it's important to remember that change is a natural and necessary part of life.

When we resist change, we create unnecessary suffering for ourselves. We become attached to the way things are and fear the unknown. But if we learn to embrace change, we can open ourselves to new possibilities and opportunities.

Pivoting and trying new things can be challenging, but it's also essential for growth and evolution. It allows us to learn new skills, expand our horizons, and adapt to the ever-changing world.

So, instead of reacting negatively to change, let's embrace it with curiosity and openness. Let's see it as an opportunity for growth and transformation. Networks add new programming and cancel shows all the time. It's expected, it's media.

Remember, the only constant in life is change. We can live more fulfilling and dynamic lives by accepting and embracing it instead of fighting or complaining.

Yesterday, I announced that "Ask The Tech Guys" ended in its current format. However, we are excited to announce that we are combining tech help with tech literacy, and "Hands-On Tech" is reborn, featuring elements from both "Ask The Tech Guys" and "Hands-On Tech." It will also be less than 30 minutes long, addressing concerns from our fans about the length of our shows.

We have heard from our fans and understand that content has exploded, making it challenging to keep up with longer shows. That's why we have created short-form content over the last few years.

Hands-On Tech joins our short format shows like Home Theater Geeks with Scott Wilkinson, Hands-On Windows with Paul Thurrott, and Hands-On Mac, starring our iOS expert Mikah Sargent. 

Therefore, plan on more changes as we evolve and grow, and try leaning in with excitement and curiosity.

TWiT.tv's New Partnership Opportunities

If you've heard my latest episode of Host-Read Ads, you know we have an update on our expanded partnership offerings for 2024. TWiT has diversified our options to provide value at every level of engagement.

We're pleased to announce our collaboration with Libsyn Ads, who now manages dynamic insertion audio ads for our new public club shows. They also have exclusivity on residual audio inventory for our eight public-facing shows. Libsyn offers producer-read ads with flexible targeting options, making it an excellent entry point for those looking to test our market.

For brands seeking a more integrated approach, our direct partnerships offer host-read ads within our show content. These in-depth, mid-roll placements allow our hosts to authentically introduce your brand to our audience without strict time constraints.

We've also introduced an opening billboard opportunity, providing premium visibility across all shows for a full week. This 30-second slot, positioned after the cold open, ensures maximum audience attention.

Our comprehensive direct partnership package includes additional benefits such as onboarding calls with hosts, presence on our sponsor page, social media promotion, shareable commercials, and promotion to our 14,000+ ad-free club members.

At TWiT, we're committed to curating partnerships that add value for our tech-savvy audience. Our full-service team is ready to support your campaign from conception to launch, ensuring alignment with your growth goals and campaign objectives.

If you want to explore how TWiT can support your marketing strategy, please contact us at advertise@twit.tv. We look forward to discussing how we can help you connect with our engaged audience of technology enthusiasts.

 

TWiT.tv Excel's At Making Our Partner's Ads Stand Out

 At TWiT, we excel at making our partner's ads stand out.

Our comprehensive continuity team includes:

★ **Copywriting**: Crafting compelling ad scripts to ensure your podcast ad stands out.

★ **Graphics**: Enhancing your lower third graphics to captivate viewers of our content.

★ **Production**: Shooting high-quality B-roll footage to leverage in your ad.

Our commitment to you with every paid minimum campaign:

★ Over-delivery of ad impressions through embedded placements.

★ Prominent presence on our sponsor page, show episode page, and in our RSS feed description.

★ Courtesy commercials available for use across all platforms except paid media.

★ Social media promotion on TWiT's X, Facebook, and LinkedIn channels.

★ Quarterly promotion in our weekly newsletter reaching over 14K fans.

★ Inclusion in our RSS feed description for all shows published in Club TWiT, reaching over 11K fans.

Are you ready to grow with us? Reach out to us at advertise@twit.tv.

Top Five Ways You Can Support Your Favorite Podcasts/Podcast Networks

Here are the top five ways you can support your favorite podcasts/podcast networks:

Subscribe, subscribe, subscribe - and then listen/watch what you download. Remember, you can listen while cooking, exercising, driving, commuting, or doing a mundane task to keep your mind fresh, entertained, and educated.

Support podcast sponsors - simply visiting a sponsor's website and making a purchase is not enough. Use your podcast's offer code or visit their landing page so the podcaster gets credit. Less than 60% of TWiT's audience uses them based on our 2024 survey. If it were 100%, brands would know where you heard about them from.

Join podcast clubs or pay for your content. It costs money to make content. Have you ever heard how many people produce one episode of NPR's Upfirst? I understand they are public radio with deep pockets. Small/independent podcasters do more with less. Here at TWiT, we only have a handful of producers, and we produce fourteen shows. It takes the combined efforts of our hosts and producers to make it all happen, and they do not work for free. Fan support helps, especially since advertising has dwindled. TWiT fans can sign up here: https://twit.tv/clubtwit. 

Reshare your favorite podcast episodes on social or repost your favorite podcast's posts. By sharing content, you help increase awareness and introduce your followers to the content you love. TWiT fans can follow us on YouTube, Facebook, X (@TWiT), Instagram (@twit.tv), TikTok (@twittok), Bluesky (@twit.tv), or apply to join our Mastodon.

Lastly, tell a friend! Word of mouth is one of the most powerful forms of advertising. If you enjoy content, tell a friend about it. Community is what makes podcasting great. Well, that and fantastic content.

What it Takes to Measure a Podcast Campaign

 

Here is what it takes to properly measure podcast campaigns:

1. Set the expectation that podcast ads can take up to eight weeks to reach their most significant impact. Podcasts are on-demand, meaning fans download episodes and listen when they want to. You cannot expect to receive a lot of traction the day after a podcast ad drops. You must give fans time to download an episode, listen to it, and then act on it. Here at TWiT.tv, most of a show's downloads occur in the first few weeks, which doesn't mean it was heard immediately. That's why we set the expectation that every ad that drops takes eight weeks because you have to allow for this process to happen.

2. Review the ad impressions that are provided to you during the campaign. This will show you how many episodes have been downloaded and will give you an idea of when ads were served. At TWiT, we update our reporting documents every Friday with audio, video, and YouTube impressions. This provides brands with how many downloads have happened and how many more are needed to fully satisfy the contracted impressions.

3. If you set up a unique landing page or offer code, review these metrics and remember that podcasts are on-demand. It will take time for fans to act.

4. Use podcast ad tech. Here at TWiT, we offer Spotify Ad Analytics (SAA), which is free and tracks our audio episodes only. We also offer Podscribe because they track video and audio, but we do not cover the cost. Ad tech will provide brands with insights on who downloaded an episode with their ad in it. This allows brands to track an IP address for 60 days and match it to those who visited its website. Because SAA only tracks audio, we provide a gross-up to count video downloads. We highly recommend using ad tech to see the traction of how many unique listeners visited a brand's website. We highly recommend this at TWiT because our fans are tech-savvy and will not visit landing pages or search for offer codes to get a discount. Our fans will google the brand's name and go straight to their website, and most of the time the offer is the same as a landing page. This is where ad tech can help provide metrics on traffic because you honestly can't track offer codes/landing pages to measure traction.

5. Advertise elsewhere. Be sure to pair your podcast campaign with other forms of advertising because it can take 7 - 15 touchpoints to convert a fan into a client. We recommend advertising in other podcasts, radio, TV, newsletters, social media, banners, and Google ads.

6. Brands must implement post-purchase surveys. This is the one tool left out of several campaigns, and it must be there. We recommend Faring.co, and there are plenty of others. This will show brands where fans heard about them after making the purchase.

Therefore, it takes more than one tool to gauge the success of a podcast campaign. We understand that ad tech can be invasive, and some brands choose to leave this out. That's fine so long as you implement all the other tools. If not, consider your podcast campaign to be a branding campaign because you cannot focus on one metric. It takes multiple tools to truly gauge the success of a campaign. If you sign up for a test utilizing these tools and you see traction, my recommendation is to renew for the next quarter because you are reaching fans who are interested in your brand, and traction/conversions should continue to increase.

If you are interested in partnering with us, then please reach out to advertise@twit.tv, and let's schedule a call to discuss your growth goals.

Host-Read Ads Stand Out

 

Host-read ads are superior to voice talent ads in podcast advertising. My podcast, Host-Read Ads, was created about a year ago to educate brands about this.

Even Spotify admits that host-read ads outperform other ads due to the audience's emotional connection and trust in the host. As podcast advertising gained popularity, host-read ads became advertisers' preferred format. However, voice talent podcast ads (read by actors and producers) have become increasingly popular with agencies.

Here are three reasons why you need to prioritize networks that offer host-read ads over voice talent ads:

1. The audience prefers to hear the ad read from the host, not from someone else. Listeners will pay closer attention to a host-read ad.

2. A host-read ad is more effective in creating an emotional connection with the audience because they trust the host with content, so they will trust the host with an ad read.

3. A longer interstitial host-read ad allows hosts to tell an engaging story about the brand, including testimonials, features and benefits, and a compelling reason why a listener would want to consider the brand. This drive conversions.

Brands may want to scale with voice talent ads due to their lower cost; however, they differ from host-read ads in response and pricing.

Podcast Ad Copy Must Have a Compelling CTA

According to Google, there are over 5 million podcasts with over 70 million episodes between them as of 2023. Spotify alone has around 5 million podcast titles on its platform. This is a HUGE amount, considering our podcast network holds 18 of the 20 years podcasting has been around. Let this sink in: millions of podcasts are out there, so why would a brand use an archaic Call-To-Action to attract attention?

When it comes to your brand's CTA, you must consider this:

1. Is your brand in a crowded space? Brands need to be aware of their competition and decide whether to take on established clientele OR go after new business. It is essential to think about your strategy and identify who you want to target before looking for podcast networks to advertise with. Brands must determine who they want to reach - industry, job title, company size, etc.

2. What sets your product/service apart from competitors? Focus on case studies, the features, and the benefits of why your product/service can be trusted - will it save time, money, clients, and more? If you think your brand is the best, you must deliver this to podcast audiences.

3. Give podcast audiences time to test your product/service OR offer a discount. Examples: 30-day free trial, 10% off an annual purchase, 3 months free with a yearly purchase, 30% off your first order, and 10% off after that, etc. Be sure your CTA is compelling AND something you can live with for a long time, or be explicit on how long the sale will last. Always air on the side of generosity. It will pay off tenfold when purchasers recall your brand.

Brands need to identify their target client and what they want to say to them before buying podcast ads.

TWiT.tv has been around since 2005, and we help our partners meet their growth goals. If you are interested in advertising with us because you want the gold standard, please email advertise@twit.tv, and we will get back to you ASAP.