I recently read an interesting article on podcast subscription models at Nieman Labs. It raises the issue that podcast fans listen across various apps and platforms. How can we deliver a paid relationship between listener and show within a specific app experience? Does the exchange of money trap us in silos and walled gardens? Or can we integrate subscription models into the open podcasting ecosystem that fueled the medium’s rise?
The article is by Jake Shapiro, previously cofounder of radio distributor PRX, now CEO of the podcasting public benefit corporation RadioPublic. His proposal called PodPass aims to answer some of those questions.
The case that they’re making is that the introduction of a lightweight, web-like identity layer to podcast subscriptions on an opt-in basis can support new and better options where identity can enhance the experience for listeners and align with publishers’ business needs.
It’s worth a read and you can find the entire article here. Let us know what you think and if you’re thinking about starting a podcast of your own, check out the Podcasting Recording Tools Category of PRtoolfinder.com.