What is Podcast Charts?
Podcast charts rank shows by popularity within directories like Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Chart algorithms consider factors like new subscribers, recent downloads, velocity of growth, and engagement—though exact formulas aren't public.
Chart Types
| Chart | What It Ranks |
|---|---|
| Top Charts | Overall popularity (all shows) |
| Category Charts | Within specific category |
| Trending | Recent growth velocity |
| New & Noteworthy | Recently launched shows |
| Episodes | Individual episode popularity |
Factors Believed to Influence Charts
| Factor | Likely Impact |
|---|---|
| New subscriptions | High |
| Download velocity | High |
| Engagement (completion) | Medium |
| Reviews/ratings | Medium |
| Listen time | Medium |
| Share of voice in category | Medium |
Note: Apple and Spotify don't publish their algorithms. These factors are inferred from observation.
Chart Visibility
| Position | Visibility Impact |
|---|---|
| Top 10 | Maximum visibility, significant discovery |
| Top 50 | Good visibility in category |
| Top 100 | Listed in charts section |
| Top 200 | Minimal chart visibility |
| Below 200 | No chart-based discovery |
Chart Strategy
| Approach | Tactic |
|---|---|
| Launch spike | Coordinate promotion for first week |
| Category focus | Easier to rank in specific category |
| Consistent quality | Sustained engagement helps |
| Review campaigns | May contribute to ranking |
| Cross-promotion | New subscriber influx |
Why It Matters
Charting creates visibility that drives more downloads, which drives higher charting—a virtuous cycle that can significantly accelerate growth if you can break in.
Why charts matter:
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Discovery: Charts are where many listeners browse for new shows.
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Credibility: "Top 10 in [category]" is a meaningful credential.
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Network effects: Visibility → downloads → higher ranking → more visibility.
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Sponsor attraction: Chart performance signals audience size.
The chart reality:
| Expectation | Reality |
|---|---|
| "If I make great content, I'll chart" | Charts favor velocity, not absolute quality |
| "Charts are everything" | Most discovery happens outside charts |
| "Charting once = sustained growth" | Benefits fade without sustained promotion |
| "Charts are pure meritocracy" | Gaming and manipulation exist |
Chart strategy considerations:
| Scenario | Chart Approach |
|---|---|
| New show launch | Concentrate promotion for velocity |
| Established show | Less crucial, focus on fundamentals |
| Category competition | Pick category strategically |
| Consistent schedule | Steady downloads vs. spiky |
The chart-focused trap: Optimizing exclusively for charts can lead to clickbait, excessive CTAs, and listener fatigue. Sustainable growth comes from content quality, with charts as a possible bonus.
Alternative discovery: Most podcast discovery happens through:
- Word of mouth
- Social media
- Search (web and in-app)
- Cross-promotion
- Guest appearances
Charts are one channel among many, not the only path to growth.