Spotify just rolled out a new feature called “Plays” that shows your episode play counts publicly inside their app. But this move isn’t about helping creators. It’s about algorithmically manipulating what used to be a level playing field—and it benefits Spotify, not you.
Worse? It distracts you from the metrics that actually show if your podcast is working. And for independent, niche hosts, this one visible number will breed unhealthy comparison, magnify self-doubt, and drive thousands of talented podcasters to quit before their show ever has a chance to grow.
In this episode, we’re breaking down what you need to know about this new metric, why it tells you nothing about the true health of your show, and what to focus on instead if you want a real understanding of how your content is resonating with listeners.
Want to know what smart podcasters are tracking instead? Hit play and let’s dive in.
0:07 – Why Spotify’s New “Plays” Metric Is Misleading (and Who It Really Serves)
0:58 – How Public Play Counts Create Unfair (and False) Comparisons
4:51 – Why Vanity Metrics Trap You in the Illusion of Growth
8:10 – The 3 Data Points That Reveal Whether Your Podcast Is Actually Growing
11:15 – Why These 3 Metrics Are the Clearest Measure of Your Podcast’s True Health
Episode Links:
Other Episodes You’ll Love:
- 4 Key Signs Your Podcast Is Making an Impact
- 5 Metrics No One’s Teaching That Tell You If Your Podcast Is Growing
→ This episode was recorded on the Deity VO-7U
Liked this episode? Share it with a fellow podcaster!
Love this show? Say thanks by leaving a positive review.
Want a podcasting growth strategy tailored to your show? Schedule a 1:1 Podcasting Audit with Courtney.
Register for Courtney's Podcasting Workshop: How to 10x Your Podcast Growth This Year
Curious about PodLaunch®? Book a Demo to see if our podcasting mentorship is the right fit for you and get the podcasting advice you need to grow your podcast.
Connect with Courtney: Linked In | Instagram | PodLaunch HQ
©Ⓟ 2018–2025 by Courtney Elmer. All Rights Reserved.
Popular Podcasts
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
Law & Order: Criminal Justice System - Season 1 & Season 2
Season Two Out Now! Law & Order: Criminal Justice System tells the real stories behind the landmark cases that have shaped how the most dangerous and influential criminals in America are prosecuted. In its second season, the series tackles the threat of terrorism in the United States. From the rise of extremist political groups in the 60s to domestic lone wolves in the modern day, we explore how organizations like the FBI and Joint Terrorism Take Force have evolved to fight back against a multitude of terrorist threats.