Over the past decade, podcasts have become more popular worldwide. Popular streaming services such as Spotify, Apple Music, and Pandora Radio have integrated podcast libraries into their offerings for their subscribers. However, there exist very few platforms dedicated exclusively to podcast listeners. Beyond that, creators are bound by limitations and criteria set by the production companies that produce and distribute their podcasts. Independent podcast creators without a contract with a large production company require additional resources and support to ensure their podcast reaches their audience. Podcast listeners, on the other hand, deserve a seamless and efficient way to find and directly support their favorite podcast creators.
CastMate, a platform built for both desktop and mobile, allows listeners to browse, search, and directly subscribe to podcasts for a price set by the creator. This information architecture will allow creators to exercise creative freedom over their podcast and collect profit separate from a contract with any production company or streaming service. It will also allow listeners to engage more directly with their favorite podcast creators, construct personalized libraries of their favorite podcasts and episodes, and share their thoughts by rating and reviewing podcasts.
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In future iterations of this work, I would like to expand upon the prototype by creating a desktop platform as well as an internal Creator Studio where users can record, edit, and distribute their original podcasts directly within CastMate. I would also like to develop a user and creator community section of CastMate where people all around the world can connect within the platform and discuss all things podcasting.