Understanding Acast Ads
Placement, types, and what to expect
Katie Rogers avatar
Written by Katie Rogers
Updated over a week ago

Acast helps podcasters monetize their content by selling ads which are then inserted int your podcast dynamically. After the ads have been delivered and tallied (according to IAB standards), the revenue is shared between Acast (us) and the podcaster (you).

Here's what you need to know about the different kind of ads and answers to some of your most frequently asked questions.

Dynamic Ad Insertion

We use dynamic ad insertion to insert ads and sponsorships into your podcast. That means they’re inserted into your podcast at the right time, targeting the right audience, for as long as the campaign lasts in all of your shows’ episodes. It means that your podcast, no matter how far back your listens are taking place, will never present your listeners with an outdated ad for an irrelevant product — and that means you can continue to make money even from episodes published years ago.

Ads

These are ads from the many excellent brands that work with Acast’s shows to get their message into podcasts. These ads are typically crafted by the advertiser themselves, and may feature some signature “voice”, tone, or music associated with that brand. 

Sponsorships

These are typically direct endorsements of the brand/advertiser, and these campaigns are often read by the podcast creator herself. Owing to this personal connection, these ads are usually suitable where the podcast has a large listenership. 

If you have your own baked in ads you are not eligible for sponsorship opportunities from Acast.

Frequently asked questions

How do I monetize my podcast?

Any paid podcaster who meets the criteria can join Acast Marketplace. Learn more here.

Am I guaranteed to gain revenue when I join Acast Marketplace?
Typically advertisers are looking for podcasts with at least 10k downloads a month. However, we have seen some podcasts monetize without meeting that threshold and we encourage you to try if interested.

Can I control where ads appear in my episode?

Yes! You will need to set your ad markers to control where ads appear. Learn more here.

Acast users use ad markers to place ads in their podcasts

What order are ads and sponsorships played in each ad slot?

In each ad marker placed in your episode, a mixture of ads and sponsorships can be played in a specified order.

  • Pre-roll: Ads are placed before sponsorship, so the sponsorship runs seamlessly into the content when placed at the start of the episode

  • Mid-roll: Ads are placed before sponsorship

  • Post-roll: Sponsorship are placed for ads, so the sponsorship is heard along with the episode content when placed at the end of the episode.

What is that sound that plays before an ad?

That is called the Acast Audio logo. It is there to help listeners tell the difference between the editorial content of the episode and the ads that are monetizing your show.

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