Acast vs JustCast

Acast is a podcasting platform and content management system for publishing, distributing and monetizing shows. One-click publishing sends episodes to Spotify and Apple Podcasts, with distribution to major podcast directories. Tools include episode scheduling, automated ad placement, bulk editing, dynamic intros and outros, and management of multiple shows. Advanced analytics cover downloads, listener geography, listening platforms, engagement and revenue. Creators can also make a customizable podcast website and web player, and create video clips for social sharing. The Starter plan is limited to one show and five episodes; unlimited episodes are available when a show joins Acast’s advertising marketplace. Acast has a free plan, with Essential at $14.99 per month billed yearly, Pro at $29.99 per month billed yearly, and Video at $39.99 per month billed yearly. Apple Podcasts video publishing is a limited beta for selected creators. Acast was founded in 2014 and is headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden.

JustCast hosts podcasts and helps users turn content into episodes for distribution to listeners. The web service can import audio from a connected Dropbox show folder or schedule episodes to publish automatically later. JustCast AI can produce episode transcripts, title ideas, introductions, chapter markers, and social media posts. Private podcasts use unique RSS feeds and remain unlisted on public platforms such as Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Listeners can be added manually or by CSV upload; Kit and Flodesk can add subscribers and provide their feed links. A Shopify integration links products to private podcasts and lets users sell access through Shopify. The customizable, mobile-friendly player can be embedded on websites and social media. Plans start at $9/mo and include a 14-day trial; there is no free plan. Starter costs $9 a month and includes two podcasts and 200 minutes of transcript, while Professional costs $19 a month with six podcasts and 600 minutes. Business costs $70 a month with unlimited podcasts and 2,000 transcript minutes. Each plan includes unlimited episodes and listeners.