What Is a Podcast Network? 18 Top Picks + Free Checklist

You’ve probably seen it. Certain podcast guests seem to be everywhere, bouncing from one top show to another, getting shoutouts, brand deals, maybe even a book deal thrown in. 

Meanwhile, you’re over here with a powerful message, solid expertise, and you’re thinking… How are they getting all that reach?

That’s where podcast networks come in.

I’ve been on over 400 shows. I’ve helped guests get booked hundreds through Talks. And I’ve seen firsthand how being part of a podcast network can give creators and experts a serious edge: more visibility, more listeners, and often more income. But they’re not for everyone.

So if you’ve been wondering, “What is a podcast network and how does it actually work?” you’re in the right place. 

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about podcast networks, how they operate, how they support podcasters, and whether or not to join a network. You’ll also get a list of the top eighteen networks worth checking out.

Let’s get into it.

What Is a Podcast Network?

A podcast network is a collection of podcasts in the same network that work together under a common brand. Here’s how it typically works within a network when you join one:

• Group of shows in the network: Multiple podcasts, often within the same niche or theme, come together to share resources.
• Promotion and cross-promotion: Podcast shows on the network promote each other, helping to grow audience reach.
• Monetization: A podcast network can help popular shows secure podcast advertising deals, sponsorships, and other revenue streams.
• Support: A podcast network takes on the business side, so podcasters can focus on creating content.
• Shared exposure: Joining a podcast network gives your podcast more visibility across the network’s platforms and other major podcast directories.

Podcast Channel vs. Podcast Network: What’s the Difference?

Quick way to think about it:

• A podcast channel is usually just one show. It might have multiple episodes, even multiple hosts or series, but it’s all under one name.
• A podcast network is a group of different shows, each with its own channel, brought together by one company, brand, or theme.

Let’s say you’ve got your own show and you upload episodes to Spotify, Apple, and so on. That’s your podcast channel. 

But if your show becomes part of something like the Wondery or HubSpot Podcast Network, you’re now inside a bigger network alongside other shows.

Channels are individual. Networks are collective.

How to Start a Podcast Network

Starting your own podcast network? Creating your own podcast network can be a great move if you’re looking to scale up and bring creators together under one roof. Here’s a quick breakdown of what you need to do:

1. Pick a niche: Focus your network on a specific topic or audience.
2. Build your brand: Create a name, logo, website, and social presence.
3. Recruit creators: Look for consistent podcasters who want to invest in networks with solid content and engaged audiences.
4. Set up business basics: Decide on contracts, payment models, and expectations on how your networks operate.
5. Support your shows: Offer marketing, tech help, and monetization guidance.
6. Promote consistently: Cross-promote, run ads, and partner up to grow fast.

Starting a podcast network isn’t a quick fix, but it’s worth the effort if you’re looking to create something that lasts.

How to Join a Podcast Network

Joining a podcast network can boost your exposure, help you monetize your podcast, and connect you with other podcasters. Here’s how you can make it happen:

1. Do your homework: Look for networks that align with your show’s niche and vibe.
2. Have a solid show: Most networks want types of podcasts with consistent episodes and some traction.
3. Pitch like a pro: Highlight your niche, audience size, growth, and standout guests or sponsors.
4. Reach out: Some networks have formal applications for podcast guestings, others prefer a direct email. Start the conversation.
5. Negotiate terms: Discuss ad splits, promo opportunities, and creative control before you sign.
6. Make the most of it: Use the network’s tools, promos, and partnerships to grow faster.

Requirements to join a podcast network

Thinking about joining a network? Most podcast networks require these in order to be accepted into a network:

• Consistency: At least 10-20 episodes and a regular publishing schedule.
• Engaged audience: A few hundred downloads per episode shows potential.
• Good audio: Professional sound quality is a must. Avoid fuzzy mics at all costs.
• Clear niche: The more focused your content, the better.
• Active listeners: Reviews, shares, and engagement matter.
• Monetization readiness: A podcast network may prefer shows with existing sponsors sometimes, but it’s not always required.

Benefits of Joining a Podcast Network

Joining a podcast network is more than just a step up. It’s about opening the door to bigger opportunities and long-term growth. Here are the benefits of a podcast network you’ll gain from the experience:

1. More exposure: Get access to bigger audiences and more platforms.
2. Built-in community: Get booked on more podcasts and learn from other podcasters.
3. Cross-promotion: Tap into network-wide promo boosts.
4. Monetization help: Networks often handle sponsorships and ad sales.
5. Support: Offload editing, hosting, or marketing so you can focus on content.

Pros of joining a podcast network

This is where things get a bit more concrete. These are the perks you can expect, the things that make it easier and more profitable to be part of a podcast network:

1. Earn more: Ad revenue with the network, sponsorships, and affiliate deals becomes easier.
2. Get connected: Podcast networks usually have access to brand deals and advertisers you wouldn’t get on your own.
3. Tech help: Many networks assist podcast hosts with editing, hosting, and podcast content distribution.
4. Exclusive events: Workshops, live shows, and community meetups.
5. Boosted credibility: Being part of a known network makes your show instantly more legit.

Cons of joining a podcast network

Here are a few things you need to keep in mind before jumping in so you’re not going in blind:

1. Less creative control: You may need to follow content or branding guidelines.
2. Revenue sharing: Networks often take a cut of your ad or sponsor income.
3. Higher pressure: More visibility means more pressure to produce consistently.
4. Limited flexibility: Some contracts restrict outside sponsorships or partnerships.
5. Possible mismatch: If the network’s focus doesn’t align with your show, growth may stall.

18 Top Podcast Networks to Join

If you’re ready to grow your audience, monetize faster, and get taken seriously in the podcasting world, these are the networks worth checking out.

1. iHeartPodcasts

Best for: Massive reach across almost any genre

As the #1 podcast publisher globally, iHeartPodcasts gives you visibility across hundreds of platforms and promotional firepower to match.

2.SiriusXM Podcast Network

Best for: Celebrity-led or entertainment-focused shows

If your podcast has star power or aims to compete with the big players, SiriusXM has the muscle and cross-promotion to push it mainstream.

3. Spotify Music Studios

Best for: Original series and global growth

Spotify Music Studios is Spotify’s all-in-one podcasting platform. If you’re producing polished, binge-worthy content, they could help you reach millions in multiple languages.

4. Wondery

Best for: True crime and narrative storytelling

Wondery is an American podcast network home to some of the most addictive podcast stories out there. If you create cinematic audio experiences, this is your spot.

5. NPR (National Public Radio)

Best for: Educational or news-driven shows

One of the most popular podcast networks, NPR is known for deep reporting and high production values. If your show adds real insight, this network comes with instant trust.

6. The New York Times

Best for: High-brow news and culture content

They don’t take just anyone, but if your content rivals what you’d see on the front page, The New York Times podcast network can give you serious authority.

7. Audacy

Best for: Broad audience and multiplatform exposure

With a mix of originals and radio-based shows, Audacy helps you get into more ears across digital, local, and national channels.

8. Acast

Best for: Indie podcasters who want more control

Acast helps creators grow and monetize without giving up creative ownership. Great for scaling while staying independent.

9. Lemonada Media

Best for: Socially conscious and emotionally resonant storytelling

Lemonada Media produces real, unfiltered podcasts that tackle tough topics with heart and humor.

10. Radiotopia

Best for: Creators who want creative freedom

Radiotopia supports independent podcasters making weird, wonderful, and unique stuff with a solid community and funding support.

11. Podcastone

Best for: Mainstream entertainment and lifestyle shows

Podcastone specializes in big names and big audiences. If you’ve got a following or access to celebrity guests, they’ll help you grow fast.

12. HubSpot Podcast Network

Best for: Business, marketing, and growth-focused shows

If you talk business, brand, or leadership, the HubSpot podcast network helps you reach an audience hungry for professional development.

13. Maximum Fun

Best for: Comedy podcasts and fan-supported shows

Built on a strong listener community, Maximum Fun gives creators the freedom to experiment and a fan base that funds it.

14. Crooked

Best for: Political and cause-driven podcasts

Crooked built its brand on sharp takes and social action. If your show sparks real conversations, this network’s a great fit.

15. Blue Wire

Best for: Sports podcasts and athlete hosts

From the NFL to the NBA, Blue Wire connects fans with insider takes and pro-level voices. Ideal if you’re all about the game.

16. Next Chapter Podcasts

Best for: Branded podcasts and purpose-driven productions

The Next Chapter Podcasts is a full-service podcast agency that partners with brands, nonprofits, and creators to produce high-quality shows focused on storytelling, education, and social impact.

17. Libsyn

Best for: Hosting, distribution, and network perks

While best known for hosting, Libsyn also helps monetize and promote shows through its growing podcast network.

18. Earwolf

Best for: Comedy shows with cult followings

Home to “Comedy Bang Bang” and similar hits, Earwolf is where edgy, smart, weird, and hilarious podcasts thrive.

Should You Join a Podcast Network?

Deciding whether to join a podcast network isn’t a one-size-fits-all decision. It depends on your podcast’s goals, growth stage, and long-term vision. Here’s what you should consider before jumping in:

• Growth stage: If you’re still working on a new podcast, focus on building your audience first. Networks typically prefer shows with a proven track record.
• Support: Networks offer technical support, marketing tools, and help with sponsorships, so consider if you need this.
• Monetization: Networks provide access to media company sponsorships and ad deals, helping you generate revenue.
• Cross-promotion: Being part of a network gives you access to a broader audience by promoting your show across their platform.
• Creative freedom: Be ready to follow a network’s structure outlined in the contract. If you prefer full creative control, a network might not be ideal.

Alternatives to joining a podcast network

If joining a podcast network doesn’t feel like the right move for you, don’t worry. There are other ways to grow, monetize, and promote your show without handing over control. 

Here are a few alternative podcast business plans to consider:

1. Build your own community: Focus on social media promotion and listener engagement to grow your fan base without a network. 
2. Sponsorships: Reach out directly to sponsors aligned with your podcast’s theme to monetize on your own.
3. Cross-promotion: Partner with other podcasters in your niche for mutual growth and exposure. That’s podcasting 101.
4. Podcasting communities: Join forums and groups with successful podcasts for support and networking opportunities.
5. Create your own network: If you have a few successful shows, consider starting your own network for more control and revenue opportunities.

How to Get Your Podcast on a Network

Getting your podcast on a network is a big step, but it doesn’t need to be intimidating. Here’s how you can join podcast networks confidently:

1. Find the right fit: Target potential networks that match your niche and audience.
2. Know your USP: Be clear on what makes your show stand out.
3. Show engagement: Highlight loyal listeners, not just download numbers.
4. Polish your branding: Make sure your visuals and messaging look pro.
5. Pitch with purpose: Tailor your message and explain your value.
6. Negotiate terms: Be ready to talk revenue, promo, and expectations.
7. Keep it high-quality: Deliver great episodes and use the network’s tools to grow your podcast.
8. Deliver consistent quality post-integration: Once on the network, continue producing top-quality episodes, engage with promotional tools, and participate in cross-promotion to solidify your place and keep growing.

Plug In Smart

So, what is a podcast network? It can be a solid way to grow faster, earn more, and get support… but only if it actually fits your goals. Some podcasters thrive with full creative control, while others prefer the team environment a network offers.

If you’re staying independent (or building your own network one day), start by building your visibility and authority.

Create your free Talks Creator profile today and get discovered by top podcasters looking for guests. It’s the easiest way to grow your reach and stay in control.