Can't listen to podcasts with video while using VPN

[nstanfill]

Plan

Premium

Country

US

Device

Google Pixel 4a 5G

Operating System

Android 11

My Question or Issue

I am unable to listen to the audio of a podcast if that podcast also has an option video to watch while connected to VPN. Even if I downloaded the audio-only episode of a podcast I am unable to listen to it because Spotify will try to play the video if it sees I'm on Wi-Fi.

Because of this I have to:

1. Download the (audio only) podcast episode while on Wi-Fi, disconnected from VPN

2. Turn back on my always-on VPN

3. Go to my destination (usually gym, work, etc.)

4. Switch Spotify to Offline mode

5. Listen to podcast

This is an ABSURD way to listen to my podcasts. I don't give a **bleep** about the video, I am not watching a TV series, a YouTube video, I am LISTENING to a PODCAST. You guys brought on JRE so excitedly and you made it a horrible podcast, even if the content is the same I have to dedicate time and effort any time I want to listen to it. All other podcasts I refuse to use Spotify for, it's such a painful experience even when there is no video.

[Novy]

Hey @nstanfill,

Thanks for reaching out about this in the Community. 

Keep in mind that VPNs aren't supported, so we can't guarantee proper functionality if one is used. 

In this case, we'd recommend turning it off so that you don't have issues with the app.

If anything else comes up, we'll be right here. 

Have a good one.