How to Distribute a Podcast on All Platforms

Think of podcast distribution like setting sail on a vast ocean: the more ports (or platforms) you visit, the more people you’ll reach. In podcasts, placing your show across multiple platforms is not just recommended. It’s necessary to build a diverse listener base. Every platform, from Apple Podcasts to Spotify, caters to unique audiences, and having a presence on each ensures your podcast will be available to anyone, anywhere.

The RSS feed is at the heart of the distribution process—a crucial tool that automates updates and ensures that new episodes are available across all directories. But distributing a podcast goes beyond uploading a feed; it involves using social media, newsletters, and collaborations to engage and grow your audience.

This guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of creating and submitting your podcast to significant platforms, choosing the best hosting service, leveraging private RSS feeds, and expanding beyond traditional directories. 

With the right strategy, you’ll transform your podcast from a single-channel effort into a multi-platform powerhouse, ready to connect with listeners wherever they are.

Preparing Your Podcast for Submission

A little preparation ensures the submission process goes smoothly before your podcast reaches listeners worldwide. A well-prepared podcast aligns with platform guidelines and enhances discoverability, setting the stage for sustained growth.

1. Ready Your Episodes and Trailer: Ensure your episodes are edited and formatted to meet platform standards. A compelling trailer can attract new listeners by offering a sneak peek of what they can expect from your show.

2. Create Cover Art and Metadata: Your cover art acts like the face of your podcast—much like a book cover. Aim for a 1400x1400 to 3000x3000 pixel image to meet directory requirements. Additionally, optimize metadata by carefully crafting a show description, choosing the correct categories, and adding relevant keywords to make it easier for listeners to find your content.

3. Choose a Hosting Platform: Whether using Podbean, Anchor, or Libsyn, a good hosting service simplifies creating and distributing your RSS feed across multiple platforms. Some platforms even offer analytics to track your podcast’s performance.

4. Check Audio File Specifications: Most directories recommend MP3 files with bitrates between 96 and 320 kbps for optimal sound quality. Ensuring your files meet these technical specs prevents potential rejections during submission.

5. Set Up a Consistent Release Schedule: Establishing a publishing cadence fosters trust with your audience. When listeners know precisely when to expect new episodes, they are more likely to engage and subscribe.

These preparations will ensure you’re equipped to navigate the various submission processes, from Spotify and Apple Podcasts to niche directories. A smooth launch builds the foundation for better listener engagement and long-term success.

Creating and Submitting Your RSS Feed

An RSS feed is the backbone of podcast distribution—it acts as a central hub that delivers new episodes automatically to every platform you connect it with. Whether you’re publishing on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or smaller directories, creating and submitting your RSS feed correctly ensures seamless distribution. Here’s how to do it:

How to Create an RSS Feed

• Use Hosting Platforms: Platforms like Anchor.fm, Libsyn, or Podbean automate the process by generating an RSS feed for your podcast. Upload your episode files and metadata, and the platform handles the rest.

• DIY Approach: If you prefer managing your feed manually, use WordPress plugins such as Seriously Simple Podcasting, which integrates with your site to create an RSS podcast feed.

Submitting Your Podcast to Major Directories

Most platforms follow a similar submission process. Below is a general guide:

1. Copy your RSS Feed URL from your hosting service.

2. Create an account on the directory you’re submitting to, like Spotify or Apple Podcasts.

3. Enter your RSS URL into the provided field.

4. Verify ownership by entering a code sent to your email.

5. Add metadata such as your show’s description, categories, and cover art.

6. Submit for approval—directories usually take 24-72 hours to review your submission.

Optimizing Your RSS Feed for Visibility

• Add Relevant Keywords: Use targeted keywords in your show description to help listeners find your podcast more easily.

• Choose the Right Categories: Directories sort content by category, so choose the most relevant ones.

• Ensure Consistent Metadata: Aligning your metadata across platforms builds trust and professionalism.

Following these steps ensures your RSS feed is set up and connected to the major platforms. Once submitted, updates to your feed will automatically sync with the directories, making it easier to publish new episodes without re-uploading them individually.

Major Podcast Platforms and Their Submission Processes

Submit your podcast to the most popular directories to maximize its reach. Each platform has its submission process and specific requirements, but connecting your RSS feed ensures new episodes will automatically appear once approved.

1. Spotify

Platform: Spotify for Podcasters

Process:

1. Create a Spotify account or log in.

2. Enter your RSS feed URL and verify ownership through a confirmation code sent via email.

3. Add podcast information such as categories, language, and region.

4. Submit and await approval (usually within a few hours).

Pro Tip: Spotify updates stats daily, providing insights into listener demographics and engagement.

     2. Apple Podcasts

Platform: Podcast Connect

Process:

1. Log in to Podcast Connect using your Apple ID.

2. Paste your RSS feed URL and preview the podcast feed.

3. Verify ownership by entering a confirmation code sent to your email.

4. Add artwork and show details, ensuring metadata meets Apple’s requirements.

5. Submit for approval (can take up to 72 hours).

Pro Tip: Apple Podcasts is a key directory, as many smaller platforms pull content directly from its feed.

    3. Google Podcasts

Platform: Google Podcast Manager

Process:

1. Sign in to Google Podcast Manager.

2. Add your RSS feed URL and verify ownership through a confirmation email.

3. Submit and monitor the feed to ensure it appears in search results and Google Home devices.

Pro Tip: Ensure your feed and website are SEO-friendly to increase visibility on Google.

     4. Amazon Music

Platform: Amazon Music for Podcasters

Process:

1. Create an account and submit your RSS feed.

2. Confirm ownership via email.

3. Wait for approval, which can take up to 24 hours.

Pro Tip: Amazon’s integration with Alexa devices provides unique opportunities to reach listeners through voice commands.

Submitting to these platforms guarantees that your podcast reaches the largest possible audience. Ensuring your metadata is complete and accurate during submission increases your chances of approval and enhances discoverability across directories.

Other Popular Podcast Directories

Expanding your podcast to smaller directories can significantly enhance discoverability. These platforms may have a different reach than Spotify or Apple Podcasts, but they often serve niche communities where your podcast can gain loyal listeners. Here’s a closer look at these directories and tips to maximize your impact.

1. Castbox

Submission Process: Create an account, upload your RSS feed, and provide necessary metadata (title, description, cover art).

Special Features:

• In-app comments and discussions allow audience engagement.

• Offline Listening lets users download episodes, increasing accessibility.

Pro Tip: Leverage Castbox Ads Platform (CAP) to run targeted ads for your podcast within the app and grow your audience more effectively.

2. Overcast

Submission Process: If your podcast is on Apple Podcasts, it will automatically appear on Overcast. However, claim your show through the Overcast website for added control.

Special Features:

• Smart Speed skips silent gaps, giving listeners a smoother experience.

• Voice Boost improves audio quality, making it appealing to audio-conscious users.

Pro Tip: Encourage listeners to use Overcast’s recommendation feature, which helps boost your podcast organically through word-of-mouth.

3. Stitcher

Submission Process: Create an account on Stitcher, submit your RSS feed, and show details (artwork, categories).

Special Features:

• Stitcher Premium offers paid memberships for exclusive content, a potential monetization opportunity for podcasters.

• Integrated Smart Speaker Support allows listeners to access your show on smart home devices.

Pro Tip: Apply for Stitcher Premium if you have exclusive content or a strong following—it can create a new revenue stream.

4. TuneIn

Submission Process: Register your podcast via the TuneIn Podcaster Portal and submit your feed.

Special Features:

• Radio Integration: TuneIn broadcasts podcasts alongside live radio stations, providing greater visibility.

• Alexa Support: TuneIn is integrated with Amazon Alexa, increasing the chance of listeners finding your podcast through voice commands.

Pro Tip: Market your podcast as Alexa-compatible to encourage listeners to tune in through voice-activated devices.

5.  Pocket Casts

Submission Process: Pocket Casts pulls directly from Apple Podcasts, but you can also submit your RSS feed manually.

Special Features:

• Cloud Syncing allows listeners to switch between devices without losing their spot.

• Playback Customization with features like skip intervals, variable speed, and trim silence.

Pro Tip: Aim to get your podcast featured on Pocket Casts’ Discover page by having robust metadata and standout cover art.

6. iHeartRadio

Submission Process: Add your podcast through the iHeartRadio portal by submitting your RSS feed. Approval can take up to two weeks.

Special Features:

• Wide Entertainment Network: With music and talk shows, iHeartRadio gives podcast access to listeners who may not typically browse podcast directories.

• Event Promotion Opportunities: Large-scale events like the iHeartRadio Podcast Awards spotlight popular podcasts.

Pro Tip: Use iHeartRadio’s branded playlists to find unique promotion angles by aligning your podcast with trending entertainment themes.

7. Goodpods

Submission Process: Create an account on Goodpods, submit your podcast RSS feed, and engage with the community through the app.

Special Features:

• Community-driven Discoverability: Podcasts are recommended based on what friends and influencers listen to, helping new shows gain exposure.

• Episode-level Ratings and Reviews: Listeners can rate individual episodes, providing valuable feedback for improvement.

Pro Tip: Actively participate in the Goodpods community by reviewing other podcasts and interacting with listeners to build a loyal audience.

Bonus Tips for Optimizing Your Listings Across All Platforms

1. Custom Cover Art for Each Directory: Some platforms, like Apple Podcasts and Stitcher, allow you to upload platform-specific cover art. Consider tailoring artwork to match the directory’s aesthetic.

2. Include Episode Transcripts: Offering transcripts boosts SEO and accessibility. Some platforms give podcasts with transcripts better visibility.

3. Cross-Promote Between Platforms: Encourage your audience to subscribe to multiple platforms to increase reach and safeguard against platform-specific changes.

4. Monitor Analytics Across Platforms: Each directory offers insights into listener behavior. Use these insights to adapt your content strategy and improve engagement.

By thoughtfully distributing your podcast to these directories, you enhance its chances of being discovered by audiences beyond the significant platforms. These smaller but vibrant communities provide opportunities for niche engagement and organic growth.

Choosing the Right Hosting Platform

Selecting the right podcast hosting platform is essential, as it is the foundation for your podcast’s distribution. Hosting platforms manage your RSS feed, offer analytics, and provide features to optimize your podcast’s reach. Let’s explore the key considerations when choosing a hosting service and some popular options.

Benefits of Podcast Hosting Platforms

1. Automated RSS Feed Management: Hosting services generate and maintain your RSS feed, ensuring that new episodes are distributed automatically across connected platforms.

2. Analytics and Insights: Access to detailed listener metrics, such as downloads, location, and engagement rates, helps you fine-tune your content strategy.

3. Monetization Opportunities: Some hosting platforms offer sponsorship programs, affiliate links, and premium subscription models for podcasters.

4. Ease of Use: Many platforms feature drag-and-drop interfaces and mobile apps, making it easy to upload episodes from anywhere.

Popular Hosting Platforms

1. Anchor.FM

• Best For Beginners looking for a free, easy-to-use platform.

• Features: Free hosting, built-in monetization, automated distribution to Spotify and other platforms.

• Drawbacks: Limited advanced analytics and customization.

2. Libsyn

• Best For Professional podcasters looking for robust analytics and control.

• Features: Advanced stats, integrations with multiple apps, and monetization options.

• Drawbacks: Paid plans may be expensive for smaller creators.

3. Podbean

• Best For Podcasters looking for a mix of hosting, live-streaming, and monetization tools.

• Features: Unlimited storage, live-stream capabilities, and customizable podcast sites.

• Drawbacks: The user interface can be complex for beginners.

Criteria for Selecting a Hosting Platform

When choosing a hosting platform, keep the following in mind:

1. Budget: Free platforms like Anchor are great for beginners, but paid platforms like Libsyn offer advanced features worth the investment.

2. Storage Limits: Some platforms offer unlimited storage, while others may limit your uploads based on your plan.

3. Analytics Depth: If tracking your audience is essential, opt for platforms with detailed analytics and insights.

4. Monetization Features: If revenue generation is a goal, look for platforms that offer ad opportunities, subscription models, or sponsorship programs.

5. Integrations: Consider platforms that integrate with social media tools, email campaigns, or YouTube for easy content repurposing.

Choosing the right hosting platform ensures a seamless experience for managing your podcast while providing tools to grow your audience and monetize effectively. A thoughtful selection sets the foundation for sustainable podcasting, whether you’re just starting or scaling your show to the next level.

Using Private RSS Feeds

Private RSS feeds offer a great way to provide exclusive content to select audiences. Whether for paid subscribers, corporate training, or members-only shows, these feeds are powerful tools for building loyalty and creating unique experiences.

What is a Private RSS Feed?

A private RSS feed is a restricted-access feed shared only with specific individuals or groups. Unlike public feeds, private feeds require a direct link, and some may use login credentials to ensure only the intended audience can access the content.

Use Cases for Private RSS Feeds

• Paid Subscriptions: Offer bonus episodes or exclusive interviews to paying subscribers through a private feed.

• Corporate Training and Internal Communications: Companies use private feeds to distribute audio-based training and internal updates to employees.

• Membership Sites and Communities: Share private content with members of exclusive clubs or online communities.

How to Set Up and Distribute Private Feeds

1. Select a Hosting Platform: Many hosting platforms, such as Podbean and Captivate, allow users to generate private RSS feeds.

2. Create a Unique Feed: Generate unique URLs for different subscriber tiers or audiences. Some platforms also allow password-protected feeds.

3. Share with the Intended Audience: Distribute the feed URL via email, community portals, or member-only websites. Include clear instructions on how to add the feed to a podcast player.

4. Manage and Monitor Access: Some platforms offer analytics for private feeds, allowing you to monitor how often they are accessed.

Best Practices for Private Feeds

• Rotate Feed Links Periodically: This helps maintain exclusivity and prevents unauthorized sharing.

• Provide Exclusive Value: To attract and retain subscribers, offer bonus episodes, behind-the-scenes content, or early access.

• Clear Onboarding: Include simple, step-by-step instructions for your audience to access the private feed, especially for less tech-savvy listeners.

Private RSS feeds are a fantastic way to monetize or enhance engagement with select listeners. Whether you aim to offer premium content or distribute private episodes, a well-managed feed can open new doors for your podcast.

Distributing Beyond Traditional Platforms

To maximize your podcast’s reach, you need to think beyond directories. Social media, email marketing, and content repurposing play pivotal roles in spreading your episodes to a broader audience and keeping listeners engaged.

Using Social Media for Distribution

Social media platforms offer a powerful way to promote your podcast to targeted audiences.

• Instagram, TikTok, and X (formerly Twitter): Share audiograms, teaser clips, or behind-the-scenes content to create buzz.

• Facebook Groups and Communities: Engage with relevant groups to promote your podcast organically.

• LinkedIn LinkedIn can be an excellent platform for building authority for business or industry-focused podcasts.

Pro Tip: Consistent posting aligned with your release schedule builds anticipation and drives engagement.

Repurposing Podcast Content for Other Platforms

Repurposing your episodes helps extend their shelf life across multiple channels.

• YouTube: Convert podcast episodes into video content by adding visuals or creating short clips. Even static audio paired with captions works well for searchability.

• Blog Posts: Transform episodes into blog articles to reach SEO-driven traffic and engage readers who prefer written content.

• Newsletters: Add episode summaries, exclusive updates, and direct links to your podcast in email newsletters to engage your existing audience.

Using Email Marketing and Newsletters

Email marketing helps you build a loyal listener base.

• Build a Newsletter List: Collect emails via your website or social media to update listeners on new episodes.

• Exclusive Content: Provide subscribers with early access to new episodes or bonus material to incentivize sign-ups.

Pro Tip: Use automated email campaigns to remind your audience about new episodes or share highlights from previous ones.

Collaborations and Cross-Promotions

Collaborating with other podcasters and influencers opens doors to new audiences and increases your podcast's visibility. Cross-promotions work incredibly well because they introduce your show to people who already engage with podcasts, making them more likely to subscribe.

1. Guest Appearances and Podcast Swaps

• Guest Appearances: Appearing on podcasts in a related niche exposes your content to a relevant audience. Prepare insightful and engaging content that adds value to the guest podcast.

• Podcast Swaps: Invite other podcasters to feature on your show and, in return, appear on theirs. This creates a win-win scenario, expanding both audiences.

Pro Tip: Coordinate simultaneous podcast episode releases to maximize reach and engagement.

2. Joint Promotions and Giveaways

• Social Media Campaigns: Partner with other podcasters for joint giveaways on platforms like Instagram and X. Both podcasts can offer merch or subscriptions as prizes for sharing and tagging friends.

• Newsletter Features: Exchange promotional spots in each other’s newsletters to cross-promote new episodes or unique content.

Pro Tip: Highlight collaborative giveaways during episodes to engage your existing audience while expanding to new listeners.

3. Building Long-Term Partnerships

• Recurring Guests: Establish recurring guest spots with other podcasters to foster ongoing collaboration and create familiarity among audiences.

• Community Support: Actively engage with other podcasters by reviewing their shows, sharing their episodes, or giving shout-outs on social media. A sense of community fosters loyalty and encourages future collaborations.

Collaborations are an excellent way to grow organically. By strategically engaging with other creators, your podcast can reach new listeners while building solid relationships within the podcasting community.

Distributing beyond traditional platforms gives your podcast more visibility and allows you to connect with new audiences. Repurposing content for different channels, utilizing social media effectively, and building relationships through collaborations will ensure your podcast grows organically over time.

Monitoring and Optimizing Your Distribution

Distributing your podcast is just the beginning—continuously tracking performance and refining your strategy is essential for long-term growth. Monitoring the right metrics lets you identify what works, where you can improve, and how to increase listener engagement over time.

Key Metrics to Track

• Total Downloads and Streams: Measure overall audience size and see how episodes perform over time.

• Listener Demographics: To tailor your content accordingly, analyze who is listening (age, location, device type).

• Engagement Rates: Monitor actions such as shares, reviews, comments, and time spent listening to each episode.

• Subscriber Growth: Track your subscriber count to measure audience retention and identify trends during promotional campaigns.

Using Analytics Tools and Hosting Platform Insights

• Hosting Platform Dashboards: Platforms like Libsyn, Anchor.fm, and Podbean offer built-in analytics to track downloads, popular episodes, and geographic data.

• Spotify for Podcasters: Provides insights into demographics and engagement specifically for Spotify listeners.

• Apple Podcasts Connect: This tool monitors listener behavior, including the average time spent on episodes and drop-off points.

Pro Tip: Use these tools to identify the best-performing episodes and replicate similar strategies.

Analyzing Trends and Adapting Your Strategy

• Compare Metrics Across Platforms: Determine which platforms drive the most downloads and engagement. Focus efforts where your audience is most active.

• Experiment with Episode Length and Formats: Monitor listener retention to see if shorter or longer episodes resonate better.

• Optimize Release Schedules: Use analytics to discover when your audience will most likely engage and adjust your posting schedule accordingly.

Continuous Improvement Through Feedback and Iteration

• Encourage Listener Feedback: Seek input through surveys, social media, or feedback forms to understand your audience's values.

• Respond to Reviews and Engage with Listeners: Acknowledge and incorporate feedback to foster stronger audience relationships.

Pro Tip: Use data to fine-tune your marketing efforts, ensuring your podcast grows sustainably.

Monitoring your podcast’s performance through analytics and feedback allows you to make data-driven decisions, ensuring consistent improvement and audience growth. Continuously refining your strategy based on insights will enable you to adapt to listener preferences and keep your podcast thriving.

Avoiding Common Mistakes in Podcast Distribution

Some missteps while distributing your podcast can hinder its reach and growth. Avoiding these mistakes ensures a smoother experience and better engagement with your audience.

1. Incorrect Categorization or Metadata Issues

• Mistake: Selecting the wrong category (e.g., submitting a true crime podcast under arts) can limit your visibility on directories.

• Solution: Carefully review directory categories and choose the most relevant ones for your show. Use keywords that align with your podcast niche to enhance searchability.

2. Neglecting Quality Control

• Mistake: Submitting episodes with poor audio quality can drive listeners away. According to industry research, about 33% of listeners drop shows due to low production quality.

• Solution: Ensure your episodes meet technical standards (MP3 format, 96–320 kbps bitrate). Use audio editing tools to clean up background noise and maintain consistent sound levels.

3. Inconsistent Posting Schedule

• Mistake: Irregular publishing makes it challenging to retain listeners, as they don’t know when to expect new episodes.

• Solution: Create a realistic release schedule and stick to it. Inform your audience about your posting cadence and use hosting platforms to automate releases.

4. Ignoring Analytics and Feedback

• Mistake: Not tracking performance metrics or engaging with audience feedback can lead to missed opportunities for improvement.

• Solution: Use analytics from hosting platforms and directories to monitor listener behavior. Incorporate feedback by tweaking content, episode length, or release schedules based on audience preferences.

5. Submitting to the Wrong Platforms or Not Enough Platforms

• Mistake: Relying only on one or two platforms limits your potential audience. Conversely, submitting to irrelevant directories wastes effort.

• Solution: Focus on the major platforms (Apple Podcasts, Spotify) while targeting niche directories that align with your content. This way, you increase reach without spreading yourself too thin.

By proactively avoiding these common pitfalls, you can ensure your podcast launches smoothly and maintains steady growth. Careful planning, consistent quality, and audience engagement are key to long-term success.

Conclusion

Distributing your podcast effectively across platforms is the cornerstone of building a more significant, engaged audience. It ensures your show reaches listeners wherever they are, from popular directories like Spotify and Apple Podcasts to niche platforms such as Goodpods and Pocket Casts. 

By strategically setting up and optimizing your RSS feed, you streamline the distribution process, making it easy to manage new episode releases across multiple channels.

In addition to submitting your podcast to directories, expanding into social media platforms, YouTube, and newsletters can significantly boost visibility. Engaging with your audience through collaborations, joint promotions, and personalized content creates lasting connections and fosters listener loyalty.

As you grow your show, tracking performance metrics from hosting platforms and directories is essential for making data-driven decisions. Be prepared to adapt based on feedback, and stay consistent with your release schedule to build trust with your listeners. Avoid common mistakes like poor audio quality and irregular posting; you’ll position your podcast for long-term success.

How Recast Studio Can Help You Distribute and Grow Your Podcast

Recast Studio can be a game-changer if you’re looking for a tool to simplify the promotion of your podcast across platforms. Recast Studio specializes in content repurposing, helping podcasters create engaging snippets, audiograms, and video clips optimized for social media. 

This makes grabbing attention and engaging your audience more accessible than traditional podcast directories. The intuitive interface allows non-video editors to seamlessly generate visually compelling content, extending your podcast’s reach through channels like Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn.

With Recast Studio, you can efficiently turn episodes into micro-content—short-form videos, social media posts, and newsletters—to market your podcast without adding extra workload. Plus, the platform’s automation features save you time, allowing you to focus on creating great content while Recast Studio handles the rest.

Ready to take your podcast to the next level? Visit Recast Studio now to see how it can transform your podcast's promotion and distribution.