First, let’s define what a podcast listening app is

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A podcast listening app is a tool used for listening to podcasts. For example, some people use the Apple Podcasts app to listen to their favorite shows, while others may use another platform such as Spotify or Google Podcasts. 

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When it comes to growing your podcast audience, one of the most important steps is ensuring your show is available on any and all listening apps. After all, how will you connect with new listeners if they can’t even find your podcast on their favorite listening app?

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While the sheer number of listening apps and podcast directories out there can seem intimidating, the process really isn’t as complicated as you might think. Luckily, all you need to do is follow a simple, two-step process to make sure your podcast is getting the exposure it deserves.

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In this article, we’ll explore key methods for ensuring your podcast is available on all listening apps so you can ultimately grow your audience and reach as many listeners as possible. 

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When distributing your podcast, follow these steps to make sure you’ve covered all your bases:

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1. Sign up with a podcast hosting service

First things first, you’ll need to sign up for a podcast hosting service to publish your show. This is a non-negotiable and the most important step towards ensuring your podcast is available to everyone. 

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Which podcast hosting service should you use, you ask? The answer to this depends on your needs and preferences as a podcaster, to a degree. 

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For example, a podcast hosting service like CoHost is a great option for global brands and professionals. The platform allows users to distribute, grow and measure the impact of your podcast through several easy-to-use yet in-depth tools. 

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However, some other examples of podcast hosting services include:

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• Simplecast. A great option for more experienced podcasters, Simplecast is on the higher end in terms of price point, but it offers the impressive tools and features to match.
• Podbean. Offering both free and paid plans starting at just $9 a month, Podbean is another reputable option for podcast hosting within the audio content landscape.
• Buzzsprout. Buzzsprout is another great option for podcast hosting, offering several easy-to-use tools, free learning materials and stellar customer support.

These are just a few of the options on the market today, but there are many more podcast hosting services out there, and the number is sure to continue rising as the podcasting world grows. Check out our Official Podcast Hosting Playbook to find even more podcast hosting information.

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2. Submit your show to podcast directories

The next step is to submit your podcast to the top podcast directories in the game, including the most notable and popular among podcast listeners—Apple Podcasts, Spotify and Google Podcasts. Luckily, you only have to do this step once when you drop your first episode or a trailer to tease the show.

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Once you’ve uploaded your first episode or trailer to the directories, the platforms will take it from there and automatically pick up each new episode you drop using your RSS feed. 

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There are several different podcast directories out there other than the three listed above. Given this, you may be wondering whether you’ll have to painstakingly upload your podcast to each one in order to maximize exposure.

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However, this is thankfully not the case. Once you’ve uploaded your podcast to about four or five of the most popular directories, the others will follow suit. That means that no matter which listening app your potential audience members are using, your podcast will be available for listening and downloading.

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If you’re curious about some of the other directories that exist today, check out Quill’s list of the top podcast directories in the podcasting world, some popular names on the list include Castbox, Player FM, Podcast Addict, and many more.

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And voilà—there you have it, a simple, two-step process for ensuring your podcast is available to any and all potential listeners. 

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Now that you’ve mastered distribution, it’s time to hone in on your marketing strategy. Check out some of CoHost’s helpful blog content to ensure your podcast marketing strategy is in tip top shape.

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What to do if your podcast isn’t showing up on directories 

If your podcast still isn’t showing up on all the directories you’d like it to, remember that the process often takes a bit of time, so you may need to wait a few hours for it to appear. In addition, don’t forget that with some platforms, like Apple and Spotify, you need to make your own account before the hosting platform will publish your show.

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When in doubt, contact your hosting platform or a representative from the listening app itself for real-time support. Where there’s a will, there’s a way!

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