Why Spotify’s New “Plays” Feature Actually Hurts Independent Podcasters

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:

• Article: Why Spotify’s New “Plays” Feature Actually Hurts Independent Podcasters

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

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