Chief Audience Officer Episode 223: How The Apple Top 100 Charts Really Work (And How You Can Rank)
Release Date: June 10, 2025
Host: Kev Michael

I. Introduction to the Apple Top 100 Charts

In this episode, Kev Michael demystifies the workings of the Apple Podcasts Top 100 charts, challenging common misconceptions and providing actionable strategies for podcasters aiming to leverage chart rankings for growth.

“Most podcasters think that the Apple Top 100 is based on downloads or show size, but that's actually not how it works.” – [00:15]

II. Case Study: Client's Unexpected Charting

Kev begins by sharing a real-life example of a client whose podcast unexpectedly ranked in the Apple Top 100 without any deliberate promotional efforts. This anecdote sets the stage for a deeper exploration of chart mechanics.

“This client was kind of shocked to see their show in the Apple Top 100 charts. They weren't doing any ads or anything special promotion-wise.” – [01:30]

III. How Apple Podcasts Charts Really Work

Contrary to popular belief, the Apple Top 100 charts don't reflect the overall size or total downloads of a podcast. Instead, they measure the speed of growth, specifically the number of new followers a show gains within a 24-hour period.

“The Apple Top 100 charts display the top 100 shows that are currently growing the fastest. They measure that growth by the number of people who follow a show on Apple Podcasts.” – [03:45]

Kev emphasizes that the metric driving these charts is new follows, not cumulative downloads or listener count.

IV. The Reality of Gaming the Charts

Kev reveals that the Apple Top 100 charts can be easily manipulated. Some podcasters resort to paying companies that use click farms to artificially boost follower counts, thereby securing a spot on the charts.

“You can pay a company a couple thousand dollars and they have basically click farms that go to your show and have a bunch of phones follow your show, and that shoots your show into the top 100 charts.” – [05:10]

However, he cautions against this approach, explaining that such tactics often don't yield the desired business growth.

V. Is Paying for Chart Position Worth It?

Kev argues that investing thousands of dollars to manipulate chart rankings typically doesn't translate into substantial business benefits. Most listeners don't actively seek out shows based solely on chart positions.

“Podcast listeners don't go, ooh, I don't know what to listen to. Let me go check out the top 100 charts. It's very rare.” – [07:25]

Instead, he highlights the social proof aspect of being in the top 100, which can enhance credibility and attract higher-quality guests.

VI. Using Chart Position for Social Proof

Drawing from his personal experience, Kev explains how charting boosted his own podcast's authority, even if it didn't immediately translate into explosive growth.

“From that day forth, I could say I was a top 100 podcaster. And most people don't know what you didn't know five minutes ago.” – [09:00]

This social proof can be leveraged to attract bigger guests and build trust with your audience.

VII. Strategies to Achieve Chart Placement

Kev offers several strategies for podcasters to organically reach the Apple Top 100 charts:

A. Selecting the Right Guests

Choosing guests who are not frequently on podcasts can be a game-changer. These guests are more likely to actively promote their episode, driving genuine follower growth.

“They really take your episode seriously because they haven't done this a million times. It is awesome.” – [12:40]

B. Choosing Niche Categories

Moving your podcast to a more niche category can increase the likelihood of charting, as there's less competition compared to broader categories like Business.

“If you put your show in the business category, it's going to be very hard to chart because the top business shows up there are spending thousands of dollars a month to stay up there.” – [16:05]

C. Engaging Audience with Contests

Hosting contests that encourage listeners to follow the podcast and take screenshots can organically boost follower counts, propelling the show into the top 100.

“He will do a contest with that show's audience... if you follow the show on Apple Podcasts and take a screenshot of you following the show, you're entered to win.” – [19:15]

VIII. Comparing Apple and Spotify Charts

Kev contrasts the Apple charts with Spotify's Top 100, stating that Spotify's rankings are based on show volume, listens, and followers, offering a more accurate reflection of a podcast's popularity and engagement.

“If you really want to see a top 100 charts that's legit and that's based on show size and engagement, check out the Spotify top 100 charts.” – [24:50]

He notes that Apple charts often highlight shows that might be manipulating follower counts, whereas Spotify's methodology rewards true listening behavior.

IX. Conclusion and Takeaways

Kev wraps up the episode by encouraging podcasters to use the Apple Top 100 charts as a tool for social proof rather than a sole indicator of success. He advocates for aiming to rank on Spotify's charts for a more genuine representation of a podcast's reach and engagement.

“Go ahead, get your show on the top 100 Apple charts. Get that screenshot, get that social proof. Then let's all work together to get our shows on the top 100 Spotify charts.” – [27:30]

Key Insights:

• Apple Top 100: Measures the speed of new followers within 24 hours, not total size or downloads.

• Social Proof: Being on the charts enhances credibility, attracting higher-quality guests and potential listeners.

• Strategies for Charting:

  • Guest Selection: Opt for guests who will actively promote their episode.
  • Niche Categories: Reduce competition by choosing a more specific podcast category.
  • Audience Engagement: Utilize contests to encourage followers and screenshots.

• Avoiding Pitfalls: Refrain from paying for fake followers as it rarely leads to sustainable growth.

• Spotify vs. Apple: Spotify charts offer a more accurate measure of popularity based on genuine engagement metrics.

Final Thoughts:

Kev Michael provides a comprehensive breakdown of the Apple Podcasts Top 100 charts, debunking myths and offering practical advice for podcasters aiming to leverage chart rankings for business growth. By focusing on authentic strategies and understanding the true drivers behind chart movements, podcasters can effectively use these rankings to enhance their show's credibility and attract meaningful growth.