Podcast Platform Guide
Castopod
Discord
Twitch
Audio & Storage
Security & Sharing

Castopod: Your Podcast Platform

Castopod is a self-hosted, open-source podcast platform that allows you to host, manage, and distribute your audio content.

What is Castopod?

Castopod is a podcast hosting platform that runs on your own server. It supports:

  • Audio-only content (MP3, WAV, OGG)
  • Subscription models (free & paid tiers)
  • Analytics and user engagement
  • Integration with podcast directories (Apple, Spotify, etc.)
Can it host video?

No — Castopod is designed for **audio-only** content. Video must be hosted separately (e.g., YouTube, Vimeo).

Tip: You can link to video content from Castopod using external URLs.
Storage & Space

Castopod stores your podcast files on your server. If you run out of space:

  • Upgrade your hosting plan.
  • Use external storage (e.g., AWS S3, Google Cloud).
  • Use a CDN (Content Delivery Network) to reduce server load.
✅ Best Practice: Store files externally and link to them from Castopod.
CDNs: Are They Free?

Most CDNs have **free tiers**:

  • Cloudflare: 10 GB bandwidth/month (free).
  • Bunny.net: 10 GB bandwidth/month (free).
  • AWS CloudFront: 12 months free, then pay-per-use.
⚠️ Warning: Free tiers are limited. Upgrade when you grow.

Discord: Community & Live Interaction

Discord is a platform for real-time voice and text chat, ideal for building a community around your podcast.

What is Discord?

Discord is a community platform where users can:

  • Join voice channels for live discussions.
  • Chat in text channels.
  • Share media and files.
📌 Key Difference: Discord is **private** — users need an invite to join.
Live vs. On-Demand

Discord supports:

  • Live sessions: Host live podcast recordings (e.g., Q&A, interviews).
  • On-demand: Share recordings later (via download or link).
📌 Important: Discord does **not save** voice calls by default — you must record them manually.
Can I use it for long-term engagement?

Yes — Discord is ideal for:

  • Building a loyal fanbase.
  • Hosting live Q&A sessions.
  • Encouraging community interaction.
✅ Best Practice: Use Discord for live interaction, and Castopod for long-term content.

Twitch: Live Video Streaming

Twitch is a live video streaming platform, ideal for reaching a broad audience.

What is Twitch?

Twitch is a platform for live video streaming. It supports:

  • Live video (e.g., gaming, live podcasts).
  • Real-time chat.
  • Video on demand (VODs).
📌 Key Difference: Twitch is **public** — anyone can watch.
Can I use it for podcasts?

Yes — but with caveats:

  • Use Twitch for **live podcast recordings**.
  • Record the session using OBS.
  • Upload the **audio** to Castopod for long-term access.
✅ Best Practice: Use Twitch for live reach, Castopod for long-term value.

Audio & Storage: Where Are Files Stored?

Podcast files (e.g., MP3) are stored on your server or external storage.

Can I use external storage?

Yes — use:

  • Cloud Storage: AWS S3, Google Cloud, Dropbox.
  • CDNs: Cloudflare, Bunny.net.
📌 Tip: Store files externally to save server space and improve performance.
How to Share Files?

Share files via:

  • Download links: Users can save the file.
  • Streaming links: Users can listen online.
✅ Best Practice: Use both — give users options.

Security & Sharing: Protecting Your Content

Once a file is downloaded, it can be shared — but you can reduce the risk.

Can Subscribers Share Links?

Yes — if the link is public. But you can protect content:

  • Use signed URLs: Generate temporary links (e.g., AWS S3 presigned URLs).
  • Require login: Only authenticated users can download.
  • Monitor downloads: Detect suspicious activity.
⚠️ Reality: You can’t stop sharing — but you can make it less appealing.
Can I Add Watermarks?

Yes — use **invisible watermarks** to:

  • Trace leaks back to the source.
  • Deter sharing.
  • Protect your content.
✅ Best Practice: Add unique watermarks for each subscriber.

Created with care for podcast creators. Use this guide to launch, grow, and protect your podcast.