Mailerlite is the email platform I use everyday. This is my number one recommendation to clients getting started and moving on to advanced functions. Great layout, affordable pricing, and superb support. My go to email platform, everytime.
Convertkit - If you are a creator, blogger, teacher, webinar host, online leader, youtuber...then this email platform is designed specifically for you. No other platform has done as good a job as ConvertKit for online content creators. Nobody services this niche better.
Using Buzzsprout as your host from day one means you are starting out on the right foot. I love Buzzsprout for its simple interface, available in app features, loyal podcast community, and integrating real world tools that all podcasters need.
Podbean is the only other hosting platform I recommend. User friendly and a great alternative to Buzzsprout if its just not for you. A leader in the space and perfect for just getting started.