Blubrry Review

Podcasting has exploded in popularity over the past decade, evolving from a niche hobby into a mainstream medium for storytelling, education, and entertainment. With this growth comes a need for reliable podcast hosting platforms that simplify the process of creating, distributing, and monetizing audio content. One name that frequently pops up in this space is Blubrry—a veteran in the podcasting world since 2005. But is Blubrry the right choice for you? In this review, we’ll dive into what Blubrry offers, its strengths and weaknesses, and how it compares to other players in the market in 2025.

What is Blubrry?

Blubrry is a podcast hosting and analytics platform founded by a group of experienced podcasters with a mission to empower creators. It’s a subsidiary of RawVoice, a privately owned U.S.-based company, and positions itself as a service “by podcasters, for podcasters.” With nearly two decades of experience, Blubrry has built a reputation for reliability and a strong connection to the WordPress ecosystem, thanks to its popular PowerPress plugin. Today, it serves over 100,000 podcasters, ranging from independent creators to commercial networks.

Blubrry’s core offerings include podcast hosting, distribution, detailed analytics, and tools for monetization. It’s designed to streamline the podcasting process, making it accessible to beginners while providing advanced features for seasoned creators. But how does it hold up in practice? Let’s break it down.

Key Features of Blubrry

Blubrry stands out with a robust set of features tailored to podcasters’ needs. Here’s a closer look at what you get:

1. Podcast Hosting and Distribution
   Blubrry provides hosting for audio and video podcasts, allowing you to upload files to their servers and distribute them across major platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more. The platform uses a content delivery network (CDN) with over 35 servers worldwide, ensuring fast and reliable episode delivery to listeners. Unlike some competitors, Blubrry offers unlimited bandwidth and downloads, meaning you won’t face extra charges as your audience grows.
2. PowerPress WordPress Plugin
   One of Blubrry’s biggest selling points is its seamless integration with WordPress via the PowerPress plugin. With over 75,000 active installations, PowerPress lets WordPress users upload, manage, and publish episodes directly from their website dashboard. This eliminates the need to toggle between platforms, making it a game-changer for bloggers or businesses already using WordPress. The plugin also supports multiple RSS feeds, customizable players, and iTunes optimization.
3. Analytics and Statistics
   Blubrry prides itself on its IAB (Interactive Advertising Bureau)-certified analytics, which provide detailed insights into your audience. You can track downloads, listener trends, geolocation, device types, and more. The data is presented in an easy-to-read dashboard with graphs and downloadable PDF reports—ideal for sharing with sponsors or advertisers. Advanced plans unlock even deeper metrics, such as episode comparisons and subscriber estimates.
4. Monetization Options
   Blubrry offers several ways to monetize your podcast, including dynamic ad insertion, an affiliate program, and partnerships with advertisers. The platform’s advertising marketplace connects podcasters with brands, while its “no-fault hosting” policy ensures you’re not penalized for minor overages in storage (up to 25% above your plan’s limit). This flexibility is a boon for creators looking to turn their passion into profit.
5. Managed WordPress Website
   Every Blubrry hosting plan includes a free, managed WordPress site or a simple landing page. This feature is particularly appealing for new podcasters who don’t yet have a website, as it provides a professional hub for their show without additional cost or setup hassle.
6. Customer Support
   Blubrry sets itself apart with robust customer support options, including free phone support, email, live chat, and scheduled video consultations. This level of accessibility is rare among podcast hosts and can be a lifesaver for troubleshooting technical issues or getting personalized advice.
7. Private Podcasting
   For businesses or creators needing secure, restricted content, Blubrry offers private podcasting plans. These allow you to share exclusive episodes with specific audiences—perfect for internal training, premium subscribers, or niche communities.

Pricing Plans

Blubrry operates on a tiered pricing model with no long-term contracts, giving you the flexibility to cancel anytime. Here’s a breakdown of the main plans as of March 2025:

• Standard Plan: $12/month (or $10/month if paid annually)
  • 125 MB of monthly storage
  • Unlimited bandwidth and downloads
  • Basic analytics
  • Free WordPress site and PowerPress plugin
• Advanced Plan: $20/month (or $17/month if paid annually)
  • 400 MB of monthly storage
  • All Standard features plus advanced analytics (e.g., episode comparisons)
  • 30-day free trial available
• Pro Hosting Plan: $100/month
  • 1,000 MB of monthly storage
  • Enhanced features for large-scale podcasters or networks
  • Priority support and monetization tools
• Private Podcasting Plans: Starting at $150/month
  • Custom storage and secure distribution options
  • Contact Blubrry for enterprise-level pricing

Unlike some competitors, Blubrry doesn’t offer a free tier, but the Advanced plan includes a 30-day trial to test the waters. Storage resets monthly, so unused capacity doesn’t roll over—a potential drawback for sporadic uploaders. Additional storage can be purchased without upgrading your plan, though this adds to the cost.

Pros and Cons of Blubrry In 2025

Pros of Blubrry

Blubrry has plenty going for it, especially for certain types of podcasters. Here are the standout advantages:

• WordPress Integration: The PowerPress plugin is a dream for WordPress users, simplifying the publishing process and consolidating workflows. If your website runs on WordPress, Blubrry feels like a natural extension.
• Reliable Analytics: The IAB-certified stats are a major plus for podcasters seeking sponsorships or aiming to understand their audience better. The clean interface and downloadable reports make data actionable.
• Unlimited Bandwidth: No overage fees for bandwidth or downloads mean you can scale your show without worrying about hidden costs—a big win for growing podcasts.
• Top-Notch Support: Phone support and one-on-one consultations set Blubrry apart in an industry where email-only support is the norm. This hands-on approach is invaluable for beginners or those with complex needs.
• Monetization Flexibility: From ads to private feeds, Blubrry offers multiple revenue streams, making it a solid choice for creators looking to profit.
• Longevity and Stability: With nearly 20 years in the game, Blubrry’s track record suggests it’s here to stay, unlike some newer platforms that might vanish overnight.

Cons of Blubrry

No platform is perfect, and Blubrry has its share of drawbacks:

• No Free Plan: Competitors like Anchor and RedCircle offer free hosting tiers, which Blubrry lacks. This could deter budget-conscious beginners.
• Monthly Storage Limits: While bandwidth is unlimited, storage caps (e.g., 125 MB on the Standard plan) may not suit podcasters with frequent or lengthy episodes. Extra storage comes at a premium.
• Learning Curve: While PowerPress is intuitive for WordPress users, the standalone Blubrry dashboard can feel clunky or unintuitive, especially for novices navigating it directly.
• Pricing vs. Competitors: At $12/month for the base plan, Blubrry is pricier than Libsyn ($5/month for 50 MB) or Podbean ($9/month for unlimited storage). You’re paying for quality, but it’s not the cheapest option.
• Limited Customization: The embeddable player and free website options lack the design flexibility of platforms like Buzzsprout or Podbean, which might frustrate creators wanting a unique look.

How Blubrry Compares to Competitors

To see where Blubrry stands, let’s compare it to three popular alternatives:

• Buzzsprout: Known for its user-friendly interface and free tier (2 hours/month), Buzzsprout starts at $12/month for 3 hours of uploads. It offers slicker design options but lacks Blubrry’s WordPress integration and phone support.
• Libsyn: A fellow veteran, Libsyn starts at $5/month (50 MB), making it cheaper for small shows. Its analytics are robust, but it doesn’t match Blubrry’s WordPress focus or unlimited bandwidth.
• Podbean: At $9/month for unlimited storage, Podbean is a budget-friendly rival with a better website builder. However, its analytics and support don’t rival Blubrry’s depth or accessibility.

Blubrry shines for WordPress users and those prioritizing analytics and support, but it’s less competitive on price and ease of use for non-WordPress podcasters.

Who Should Use Blubrry?

Blubrry is best suited for:

• WordPress Users: If your website runs on WordPress, PowerPress makes Blubrry a no-brainer.
• Data-Driven Podcasters: Those who need detailed, sponsor-ready analytics will appreciate the robust stats.
• Growing Shows: Unlimited bandwidth and monetization tools cater to podcasts with expanding audiences.
• Businesses or Networks: Private podcasting and pro plans suit professional or enterprise needs.

It’s less ideal for:

• Beginners on a Budget: No free plan and a steeper learning curve might push novices toward simpler, cheaper options.
• Non-WordPress Users: Without the plugin, Blubrry loses some of its edge over competitors.

The Bottom Line

Blubrry is a solid, dependable podcast hosting platform with a lot to offer—especially if you’re a WordPress user or value analytics and support. Its integration with PowerPress, unlimited bandwidth, and monetization options make it a strong contender for serious podcasters willing to invest in their craft. However, the lack of a free tier, monthly storage limits, and a less intuitive standalone dashboard hold it back from being the perfect all-rounder.

In 2025, I’d rate Blubrry a 4 out of 5. It’s not the flashiest or cheapest option, but its reliability, depth, and customer-first approach make it a worthy choice for the right creator. If you’re ready to commit to a paid plan and want a platform built by podcasters who understand the game, Blubrry deserves a spot on your shortlist.