Welcome to the Ambassador Program! This guide addresses frequently asked questions to help you navigate how to get started, execute ads, and explore various topics within the program.
In this article:
About the Ambassador Program
This introductory section offers a fundamental overview, providing essential insights into key aspects of the program.
How do I join the Ambassador program?
How do I join the Ambassador program?
If you are already a member of the Creator Network and have received the automated welcome email, please see How do I receive offers? to sign up.
If you have not joined the Creator Network, follow these 3 easy steps to get started.
Step 1: Sign up here.
Already have an account? Log In
Step 2: Claim Your Show
Connecting your podcast syncs your show to Zencastr and will not impact your current podcast availability. Your podcast will continue to be served from your host provider, without any delays and noticeable differences from your listeners. For a how-to, watch this video here.
Step 3: Apply to the Creator Network
Once your show is connected, an application form will pop up. From here, you can opt-in to flexible monetization programs.
All set!
Is there a specific Zencastr plan type I need to be on to participate in the Ambassador Program?
Is there a specific Zencastr plan type I need to be on to participate in the Ambassador Program?
Users on any subscription plan, free or paid, can join the Ambassador Program.
Do I need to migrate hosting to opt in to the Ambassador Program?
Do I need to migrate hosting to opt in to the Ambassador Program?
You can stay with your current host provider and still join the Ambassador Program. To unlock all offers in these programs if you are hosting elsewhere, it is recommended to apply our custom prefix as some campaigns require tracking. More information here.
What does revenue share mean?
What does revenue share mean?
All campaigns in the Ambassador Program, except for Zencastr campaigns (promotion of Zencastr), are subject to revenue share. This percentage amount will be shown on all offers, and indicates the revenue share amount that you will be receiving for every redemption using your coupon code or referral link. This percentage varies depending on your level of participation in our WeFunder Investor Campaign.
Details can be found in the Terms & Services presented before an offer is accepted.
I need help, should I use the chat icon for support?
I need help, should I use the chat icon for support?
For assistance with the Creator Network, please reach out to creatornetwork@zencastr.com via email. Our support team may not have the expertise to address campaign-specific inquiries. All tickets opened will be rerouted to our Creator Network team, and responses will be provided in the order they are received.
Getting Started
We're excited for you to embark on your Ambassador Program journey! Here is a guide on how to get started, covering topics such as accepting and rejecting offers, locating campaign materials, and adhering to best practices for coupon code sharing guidelines
How do I accept an offer?
How do I accept an offer?
✨ New to Accepting Offers? Learn how here or follow the steps below.
Log into your Zencastr account.
Click on the Monetize tab on the left part of your screen.
Click on the image of the offer that you want to accept.
Click on View Terms. Carefully review the details provided. Additionally, please review the Creator Network Terms of Service by clicking on the link.
After reviewing all the details of the offer, please make sure that the box beside the Creator Network Terms of Service is ticked.
Click on Accept Offer.
If you want to reject the offer, please click on Reject and select your reason for rejection. If your reason for rejection is not listed on the drop-down, or if you wish to send a message to our campaign specialist, please select Other and type in your message in the provided form.
Click Confirm Offer Rejection.
If you need further assistance, reach out to us at creatornetwork@zencastr.com.
Where can I find materials to start a campaign?
Where can I find materials to start a campaign?
Once you accept your offer, you’ve unlocked your materials to begin the campaign. Here is what you will find once you accept an offer in the offer modal.
✔ Ad Brief: also known as podcast ad copy or script.
✔ Coupon code: Your unique coupon code. Use this code during your host-read ad segment.
✔ Offer link: also known as a referral link. This is your unique short link for each campaign used to share your discount in text form to ensure sales are tracked outside of the audio listening experience.
✔ Onboarding guide: a brand-specific guide outlining reminders and notes for each campaign.
Having trouble finding your campaign materials? Watch a quick tutorial here.
Steps on how to access your campaign materials:
Access your Zencastr Creator Network Account by logging in.
Navigate to the Monetize section and select an offer image.
Locate and download your Ad Brief from the provided links. Alternatively, you can copy both your Offer Code and Offer Link.
How do I receive offers?
How do I receive offers?
Explore Ambassador opportunities by signing up and browsing active brands here. Check back periodically for additional opportunities added, and stay tuned for offers emailed directly to you!
What happens if I don't accept or reject an offer?
What happens if I don't accept or reject an offer?
You'll have ample time to accept an offer, but please be aware that if you don't, Zencastr admin may archive it based on campaign availability. A reminder email will be sent before deactivating the offer.
If the offer doesn't interest you, kindly reject it. Other podcasters are eager for this opportunity, and indicating your preferences helps us find better brand matches for you.
I don’t see my Ad Brief on the Offer Modal; how do I get one?
I don’t see my Ad Brief on the Offer Modal; how do I get one?
Some campaigns involve a complex setup that requires manual code editing by the brand, resulting in variations in ad briefs and landing pages. In such cases, we may need to reach out to you directly via email for the necessary campaign assets. Please be sure to monitor your inbox for emails from creatornetwork@zencastr.com, as these may contain crucial campaign information.
Can I share my coupon code on social media?
Can I share my coupon code on social media?
Avoid sharing the code directly in text form on social media, newsletters, show notes, or any other written format. Instead, share your offer link starting with zen.ai for social media promotion. Sharing the offer link prevents coupon leakage and ensures the code remains active. Posting the code in a video podcast banner, reel, or as an image post is acceptable.
Please that codes that are leaked may undergo discrepancy investigation to finalize confirmed earnings. Details can be found in the Terms & Services presented before an offer is accepted.
Can I use a link shortener (i.e bitly, tinyurl, rebrandly, etc.) for my offer link (aka referral link)?
Can I use a link shortener (i.e bitly, tinyurl, rebrandly, etc.) for my offer link (aka referral link)?
Yes, we recommend using a URL that is different from your actual coupon code. This helps prevent them from being crawled by bots and posted on coupon aggregator sites.
How To Execute Your Ad
This guide outlines options for executing your host-read ad, whether “baked-in” or served via dynamic ad insertion. After crafting your fantastic host-read ad, remember to mark your ads. Marking ads confirms the submission of your ad run and showcases your ad—brands love to hear the ad clips and track performance!
How long should I run ads and what is the expected duration for my host-read ads?
How long should I run ads and what is the expected duration for my host-read ads?
We recommend running ads for a minimum of one month per campaign, usually around 30 to 60 seconds in duration, to achieve audience saturation. Conversions often start rolling in after listeners have heard the ad on your podcast at least twice. Be creative and use the ad brief provided by each brand as a guide to crafting an exceptional ad!
How do I insert ads on my show?
How do I insert ads on my show?
There are two ways you can insert an ad into your podcast - by baking/embedding them into the episode or via dynamic ad insertion (depending on availability by podcast hosting provider). You may insert your ads at the pre-roll, mid-roll, or post-roll, whichever you think is best.
How do I bake-in my host-read ad?
How do I bake-in my host-read ad?
1. Create the Ad Content:
Write a script for your ad using the provided Ad Brief. See Where can I find materials to start a campaign?
Record the audio for your ad. Ensure it's of high quality and follows specific guidelines provided by the brand.
2. Edit the Audio:
Use Zencastr’s built-in Automatic Post-Production (or any audio editing software) to edit and enhance your ad recording. Having great audio quality makes the ad-listening experience a more pleasant one.
3. Insert the Ad into Your Episode:
When editing your podcast episode, find a suitable break in your content to insert the ad. This is often done during natural pauses or transitions.
Drop the ad audio file into your episode's timeline within your editing software.
One other way would be to do a live read wherein you read your pre-prepared script during the podcast episode recording.
4. Blend the Transition:
To make the ad flow seamlessly with your content, consider adding a brief introduction or transition before the ad. This can help prepare your listeners for the upcoming promotional content.
5. Export the Episode:
Once you're satisfied with the edited episode, export it as a single audio file. This exported file will include both your main content and the baked-in ad. YOu can skip this part if you are doing a live read.
6. Publish the Episode:
Upload the final audio file to your podcast hosting platform. The baked-in ad will be a permanent part of this episode.
7. Update Episode Information:
If the baked-in ad includes promotional details or time-sensitive information, update your episode's metadata (title, description) to reflect this. Please make sure to include your referral link if advised on the Ad Brief or Onboarding Guide.
8. Promote the Episode:
Share your episode as you normally would, promoting it through your social media channels, newsletters, or any other platforms. Be sure to follow the proper guidelines outlined in your onboarding guide to each campaign.
How do I serve host-read Dynamic Ads?
How do I serve host-read Dynamic Ads?
Dynamic Ad Insertion (DAI) is a powerful tool that allows podcast creators to seamlessly integrate ads into their content, enhancing monetization opportunities. Before starting, please confirm that your podcast hosting provider supports DAI by checking your provider's documentation or contacting their support team for assistance.
If your podcast hosting provider supports DAI, follow this comprehensive guide to get started.
1. Creating Ad Content:
Most brands require a host-read ad. Prepare an engaging and authentic script that aligns with your podcast's tone by using the provided Ad Brief. Link to “Where can I find materials to start a campaign?”
2. Configuring Dynamic Ad Insertion:
Accessing DAI Settings: Navigate to your hosting platform's dashboard and find the DAI settings. This might be under Monetization, Dynamic Insertion, AdHub, or a similar section.
Uploading Ad Content: Follow the platform's instructions to upload your ad content. Some platforms may allow you to preview how ads will appear in your episodes.
Checking Flight Settings: Review and adjust ad flight settings to account for dates run, target impressions, and other campaign-specific details. Depending on your host provider, you can also edit episode descriptions to include your referral links across your back catalog automatically.
What is Ad Marking?
What is Ad Marking?
Ad marking is a crucial step to confirm your ad submission and facilitate the processing of payments for any sales made. Please note that this step is enforced to monitor fraud, as brands are actively seeking host-read podcast ads. This process also enables brands to listen to your ads and discover new creators to sponsor!
For a detailed guide on steps, refer to this article here.
Tracking - Adding Prefixes
Unlock monetization opportunities for host-read sponsorships and affiliate offers by adding the Zencastr URL Prefix, similar to Chartable and the Spotify Ad Prefix. This one-time task is essential for campaigns requiring listener attribution and tracking. The prefix collects download statistics and site visits from each podcast episode through a redirect from your RSS feed, ensuring your podcast operates seamlessly without any interference or delays for your listeners.
What is the Zencastr Analytic Prefix?
What is the Zencastr Analytic Prefix?
Certain brand campaigns require tracking, and you'll need to incorporate the Zencastr prefix into your RSS feed. This is a one-time setup! Follow the instruction guide here. Please note, if a campaign requires tracking, a Campaign Specialist will be in touch.
I’m unable to add the prefix due to my host provider — will my commissions still be tracked?
I’m unable to add the prefix due to my host provider — will my commissions still be tracked?
A prefix is asked to be implemented for brands that require full-funnel* tracking. If you are unable to add the prefix based on your host provider, you will be prompted to join a different campaign where full-funnel tracking isn’t mandatory.
*Full-funnel tracking is described as tracking the customer shopping journey from visiting the page to buying a product.
Troubleshooting and Common Issues
Check out our troubleshooting and issues guide for some handy solutions and tips!
Why does the View Offer button on the email lead to an Error 404 page?
Why does the View Offer button on the email lead to an Error 404 page?
This issue can occur when accessing the page through a browser that isn't logged into your Zencastr account. Please log in to your Zencastr account and attempt to click the button in the email once more.
Alternatively, watch this quick tutorial here on how to accept or reject an offer from your Monetize Dashboard, or see How do I accept an offer?
Why is my coupon code/offer link not working?
Why is my coupon code/offer link not working?
Please ensure you've accepted the offer, as this will activate your promo code and offer link. Once an offer is accepted, you will see an Accepted button on the campaign's offer image.
I’m not receiving any emails regarding offers or campaign notifications from Zencastr.
I’m not receiving any emails regarding offers or campaign notifications from Zencastr.
To ensure you receive our emails without any issues, consider whitelisting our email address - creatornetwork@zencastr.com. You can follow the instructions provided in this article: How to Whitelist an Email in Gmail, Outlook, Yahoo, and More. Additionally, it's advisable to check your spam folder regularly to make sure you haven't overlooked any important emails or instructions. If you have any concerns or haven't received the required information, feel free to contact us at creatornetwork@zencastr.com for further assistance.
I just published an episode but don't see it on my Zencastr Dashboard to be able to mark it. What can I do?
I just published an episode but don't see it on my Zencastr Dashboard to be able to mark it. What can I do?
Zencastr crawls your feed multiple times a day to import your episodes. If you do not see them yet on your Dashboard, you can do any of the following:
Head to the Shows tab on your Zencastr Dashboard. Give it a few minutes to read your feed and import your new episodes.
Click on the Mark your Ad button on the Offer modal. Give it a few minutes to read your feed and import your new episodes, and your new episode should then appear in the drop down.
Payouts, Redemptions and Ending a Campaign
Explore our guide for answers to frequently asked questions about payments and redemptions!
How and when will I receive payment?
How and when will I receive payment?
✔ Payouts are done via PayPal. Please fill out the following form here. If you have already filled out this form, you’re all set. If you need to change your information, please contact us directly at creatornetwork@zencastr.com
✔ Payout earnings for the Ambassador Program are disbursed on a NET 30 basis from the sale date. This timeframe accommodates potential chargebacks, cancellations, or refunds.
✔ Payout earnings will be sent only via PayPal. Other payment channels such as Venmo, Cash App, Zelle, or Stripe are currently unavailable.
How do I “cash out”?
How do I “cash out”?
Rest assured, there's no need for any action on your part, as payouts are automatically scheduled and sent. Payouts occur in the month following the redemption maturity period, which is 30 days after the initial transaction. The latest date for these payouts is the 15th of that month. For example, if a sale using your code took place on August 3rd, the redemption matures on September 3rd, and your payout will be processed and sent between the 1st and 15th of October. Please note that there may be a delay to payments if redemptions are flagged for fraud.
Best practices to ensure timely payouts.
Best practices to ensure timely payouts.
Providing your PayPal information & Ad Marking are the only steps required to trigger payouts. If you made any sales commissions, your earnings are reported and are scheduled to be paid.
How can I monitor my redemptions?
How can I monitor my redemptions?
You can monitor your earnings from your Zencastr Monetize Dashboard. Please refer to this quick tutorial here, on how to check your gross revenue.
Please be aware that some campaigns may have tracking and reporting handled by the client. In the event of any sales, a Campaign Specialist will reach out to you via email with details about your earnings.
What if I want to end the campaign on my show?
What if I want to end the campaign on my show?
Contact us at creatornetwork@zencastr.com, our team will archive your offer if you wish to end the campaign on your show.
Please be aware that when you choose to archive a campaign, the action is linked to your coupon code. Archiving the offer will deactivate the coupon code, rendering it ineffective for any users attempting to utilize it.
Do I have a tax obligation for my earnings through Zencastr? How can I obtain a 1099 form?
Do I have a tax obligation for my earnings through Zencastr? How can I obtain a 1099 form?
Below are some references that may be significant to you. Please note that the details we share here are not intended as tax advice, and for specific questions related to your unique tax situation, we recommend consulting a tax professional.
As payments are disbursed via PayPal, the following articles might be helpful:
These resources from PayPal aim to assist you in understanding the tax implications associated with your earning. If you have specific questions or concerns, it's always a good idea to seek advice from a qualified tax professional, especially as tax laws and filing vary from state to state and country to country.