You’ve done it! Your podcast is recorded, edited, and ready for the world, but there’s a crucial step you can’t skip—submitting it to podcast directories. This is how your podcast gets discovered by listeners browsing platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts. Let’s walk through the process and get your podcast out there.
What are Podcast Directories?
Podcast directories are the libraries of the podcasting world. They don’t host your content but rather index it so listeners can find, subscribe to, and download your episodes. Think of them as the digital shelves where your podcast will sit alongside millions of others.
The Submission Process
While the exact process can vary slightly from one directory to another, here’s the general approach:
- Prepare Your RSS Feed: Your podcast hosting platform, like Acast, RedCircle, or Libsyn, will provide you with an RSS feed. This feed contains all the necessary information about your podcast, including episodes, metadata, and more.
- Create Accounts: For most directories, you’ll need an account to submit your podcast. Create these with a professional email connected to your podcast for organization and consistency.
- Submit Your Podcast: Once logged in, look for the option to ‘Submit a Podcast,’ ‘Add a Show,’ or something similar. Enter your RSS feed and any other requested details like the category of your podcast, language, and country.
- Verify Ownership: Directories will want to confirm that you own the podcast you’re submitting. This typically involves clicking a verification link sent to the email associated with your podcast.
- Wait for Approval: After submission, there’s a review process. This can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days, depending on the directory. They’re checking to ensure your podcast meets their standards and guidelines.
Key Directories to Consider
Here’s a list of some directories where you should consider submitting your podcast:
- Apple Podcasts: The largest podcast directory and a must-submit for any podcaster.
- Spotify: Rapidly growing, Spotify is essential for reaching a wide audience.
- Google Podcasts: Important for visibility, especially on Android devices.
- Stitcher: A long-time player in the podcasting space with dedicated listeners.
- TuneIn: Offers the chance to be heard on Amazon Alexa devices.
Why This Step Matters
Submitting to directories isn’t just about getting your podcast listed—it’s about accessibility. The more places your podcast can be found, the easier it is for new listeners to discover it. Each directory has its own audience, and you want to tap into as many of those as possible.
Best Practices for Directory Success
- Accurate Metadata: Ensure your podcast title, description, and artwork accurately represent your content.
- Consistency: Keep your podcast branding consistent across all directories.
- Quality Control: High-quality audio is a must. Many directories will reject poor quality content.
- Follow Up: Once your podcast is listed, encourage listeners to leave reviews and ratings, which can boost visibility.
Conclusion
Getting your podcast listed on directories is a pivotal step in your podcasting journey. It’s not just about putting your podcast out there; it’s about giving it a platform to be discovered and enjoyed by a global audience.
If this process seems daunting, you’re not alone. Many podcasters find this step to be one of the most technical aspects of launching their show.
That’s where Sound Concept Media steps in. We specialize in not just crafting beautiful audio content but also in navigating the digital landscape to ensure your podcast reaches as many ears as possible.
Reach out to us, and let’s get your podcast the attention it deserves.