What is Podcast Submission

Podcast submission is the process of submitting your podcast to various podcast directories and platforms. Think of it as getting your show listed in the "phone book" of the audio world. When you create a new podcast, it doesn't automatically appear everywhere people listen to podcasts. You need to proactively send it to these platforms so that potential listeners can discover and subscribe to your content.

This process involves providing essential information about your podcast, such as its title, description, artwork, and the RSS feed URL. The RSS feed is a crucial element; it's a constantly updated file that contains all the necessary information about your episodes. Podcast directories use this feed to display your new episodes to subscribers and make them searchable for new listeners.

Why is Podcast Submission Important?

The primary goal of podcast submission is discoverability. Without it, your podcast remains a hidden gem, inaccessible to a vast majority of potential listeners. Here's why it's a non-negotiable step for any podcaster:

• Reaching a Wider Audience: Major podcast directories like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and Amazon Music have millions of users actively searching for new content. Submitting to these platforms places your podcast directly in front of this audience.
• Building Credibility and Authority: Being listed on reputable platforms lends legitimacy to your show. It signals to listeners that your podcast is a professional production worth their time.
• Driving Subscriptions and Downloads: The easier it is for people to find and subscribe to your podcast, the more likely they are to become regular listeners, leading to increased downloads and engagement.
• SEO Benefits: While not direct website SEO, being present on these platforms can indirectly contribute to your online visibility. Users searching for topics related to your podcast might find it through these directories. Understanding what is keyword intent matching can help you craft descriptions that resonate with searchers within these platforms.
• Analytics and Insights: Many directories provide basic analytics, giving you insights into where your listeners are coming from and how they are engaging with your content.

The Essential Components of Your Podcast for Submission

Before you begin submitting, ensure you have these key elements ready and polished:

1. Podcast Title

• This is your show's name. Make it memorable, descriptive, and relevant to your content.
• Avoid overly generic titles that might be difficult to find.

2. Podcast Description

• This is your elevator pitch. It should clearly explain what your podcast is about, who it's for, and what listeners can expect.
• Use compelling language and incorporate relevant keywords that potential listeners might search for. This is where understanding how to find trending keywords can be beneficial.
• Keep it concise but informative, typically between 200-500 words.

3. Podcast Artwork (Cover Art)

• This is the visual representation of your podcast. It needs to be eye-catching and professional.
• Specifications:
  • Minimum size: 1400 x 1400 pixels
  • Maximum size: 3000 x 3000 pixels
  • Format: JPEG or PNG
  • Color Space: RGB
• Your artwork should be clear, legible at small sizes, and reflect the tone and subject matter of your show.

4. RSS Feed URL

• This is the backbone of your podcast's presence on directories. It's a unique URL provided by your podcast hosting platform (e.g., Libsyn, Buzzsprout, Podbean).
• The RSS feed contains all the metadata for your podcast, including episode titles, descriptions, audio files, and publication dates.
• When you upload a new episode to your host, it updates the RSS feed, and directories automatically pull in the new content.

5. Episode Details

• For each episode you submit, you'll need:
  • Episode Title
  • Episode Description (show notes)
  • Episode Audio File (usually hosted by your podcast provider)
  • Episode Number (optional but recommended)
  • Season Number (optional but recommended)

The Podcast Submission Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

While the exact steps can vary slightly between directories, the core process remains consistent.

Step 1: Choose Your Podcast Hosting Provider

If you haven't already, select a reliable podcast hosting service. This is where your audio files will live, and where your RSS feed will be generated. Popular options include:

• Buzzsprout
• Libsyn
• Podbean
• Captivate
• Transistor

Your hosting provider will give you your unique RSS feed URL.

Step 2: Prepare Your Podcast Assets

Gather all the necessary information and files as outlined in the "Essential Components" section above. Ensure your artwork is optimized and your descriptions are well-written.

Step 3: Identify Key Podcast Directories

Focus on the most popular and influential directories first. These are the gateways to most podcast listeners.

• Apple Podcasts (formerly iTunes): The largest and most influential directory.
• Spotify: A rapidly growing platform with a massive user base.
• Google Podcasts: Google's dedicated podcast app, important for Android users.
• Amazon Music / Audible: Gaining traction, especially for those within the Amazon ecosystem.
• Stitcher: One of the older and more established podcast apps.
• TuneIn: A popular platform for streaming radio and podcasts.
• iHeartRadio: Another significant player in the audio streaming space.
• Pandora: Known for its music streaming, it also hosts podcasts.

Step 4: Submit to Each Directory

This is where the actual submission happens. You'll typically need to create an account with each platform and follow their specific submission guidelines.

Submitting to Apple Podcasts:

1. Go to the Apple Podcasts Connect website.
2. Sign in with your Apple ID.
3. Click the "+" button to add a new podcast.
4. Paste your RSS feed URL.
5. Apple will verify your feed and display your podcast information. You can then edit details if needed.
6. Submit for review. Approval can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days.

Submitting to Spotify:

1. Go to the Spotify for Podcasters website.
2. Log in or create an account.
3. Click "Add your podcast."
4. Paste your RSS feed URL.
5. Spotify will verify your feed and show you your podcast details.
6. Submit your podcast. Approval is usually very quick.

Submitting to Google Podcasts:

Google Podcasts primarily uses your RSS feed to find your podcast. There isn't a direct submission portal as with Apple or Spotify.

1. Ensure your podcast is listed on at least one major directory (like Apple Podcasts).
2. Make sure your website has a clear link to your podcast on various platforms.
3. Google's crawler will eventually find your podcast through your RSS feed. You can also submit your website URL to Google Search Console.

Submitting to Other Directories:

The process for other directories is generally similar:

• Visit their specific "for podcasters" or submission page.
• Create an account.
• Provide your RSS feed URL.
• Fill in any required details.
• Submit for review.

Step 5: Monitor and Manage Your Submissions

• Wait for Approval: Each directory has its own review process. Be patient.
• Check for Errors: If your podcast is rejected, carefully read the reasons and make the necessary corrections. Common issues include incorrect artwork dimensions, malformed RSS feeds, or inappropriate content.
• Keep Your RSS Feed Updated: As you release new episodes, ensure your podcast host correctly updates your RSS feed. This is how directories will know to display your latest content.
• Promote Your Podcast: Once listed, actively promote your podcast and encourage listeners to subscribe directly through their preferred apps.

Best Practices for Podcast Submission

To maximize your chances of success and visibility, consider these best practices:

• Start with the Major Players: Prioritize Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Once you're listed there, many other directories will often pick up your feed automatically.
• Use a Consistent RSS Feed: Don't change your RSS feed URL unless absolutely necessary. A stable feed ensures your subscribers always get new episodes.
• Craft Compelling Show Notes: Your episode descriptions (show notes) are crucial for discoverability within directories and for engaging listeners. Think about what is generic anchor text when writing them – avoid vague terms and be specific about the episode's content.
• High-Quality Artwork is Key: Your cover art is often the first impression a potential listener has of your show.
• Be Patient and Persistent: Submission and approval can take time. If you encounter issues, don't get discouraged.
• Understand Directory Guidelines: Each platform may have its own rules regarding content, artwork, and metadata. Familiarize yourself with them to avoid rejections.
• Consider a Podcast Website: Having a dedicated website for your podcast is beneficial. You can embed players, link directly to your podcast on various platforms, and provide more detailed show notes. This also aids in what is image sitemap optimization for any visual assets you use.
• Leverage Your Host's Support: Most podcast hosting platforms offer guides and support for submitting your podcast.

Frequently Asked Questions About Podcast Submission

What is the RSS feed for a podcast?

The RSS (Really Simple Syndication) feed is a special XML file that contains all the essential information about your podcast, including its title, description, artwork, and details about each episode (title, description, audio file link). Podcast directories read this feed to display your podcast and its episodes to listeners.

How long does it take for a podcast to be approved by directories?

Approval times can vary significantly. Apple Podcasts can take anywhere from a few hours to several days. Spotify is typically much faster, often approving within hours. Other directories have their own timelines.

Can I submit my podcast to multiple directories?

Yes, absolutely! It is highly recommended to submit your podcast to as many relevant directories as possible to maximize your reach. However, you only need to submit your RSS feed once to each directory.

What happens if my podcast is rejected?

If your podcast is rejected, the directory will usually provide a reason. Common reasons include issues with RSS feed formatting, artwork dimensions, or content that violates their guidelines. Review the feedback, make the necessary corrections, and resubmit.

Do I need to resubmit my podcast every time I release a new episode?

No, once your podcast is approved and listed in a directory, you do not need to resubmit it for every new episode. As long as your RSS feed is correctly updated by your podcast host with the new episode information, the directories will automatically detect and display it.

Is there a fee for submitting a podcast to directories?

Generally, there is no fee to submit your podcast to major directories like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Google Podcasts. These platforms aim to provide a free service for both podcasters and listeners.

Conclusion

Podcast submission is a fundamental step in launching and growing your podcast. By understanding what it entails and diligently submitting your show to the key directories, you open the door to a vast audience of potential listeners. It's an investment of time that pays significant dividends in terms of discoverability, credibility, and overall podcast success. Don't let your hard work go unheard; ensure your podcast is listed where people are actively searching for great audio content.

If you're looking to optimize your podcast's presence, from crafting compelling descriptions to understanding the broader landscape of digital content discoverability, we at ithile are here to help. We offer expert SEO consulting to ensure your content reaches its intended audience.