How to Distribute Your Podcast to All Major Platforms
Creating an amazing podcast is only half the battle—you also need to make sure your show reaches as many listeners as possible. Effective podcast distribution ensures your content is available on all major platforms where your target audience listens.
In this article, we break down how to distribute your podcast to all major platforms. Whether you’re launching your first episode or scaling your audience, knowing how to distribute your podcast is key to reaching listeners on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google, and beyond. Let’s get your voice everywhere it needs to be.
Why Podcast Distribution Matters
Your podcast’s success depends heavily on its availability across platforms. Distribution increases:
• Audience reach
• Discoverability
• Subscriber growth
• Monetization opportunities
Step 1 – Choose a Podcast Hosting Platform
Your hosting platform stores your podcast episodes and generates your RSS feed, which is essential for distribution.
Popular Hosting Platforms
• Buzzsprout
• Podbean
• Libsyn
• Anchor (by Spotify)
• Captivate
What to Look For
• Reliable uptime and storage
• Detailed analytics
• Easy integration with major directories
Step 2 – Set Up Your Podcast RSS Feed
Your hosting platform will generate an RSS feed—a unique URL that contains your podcast’s metadata and episode information.
Key RSS Feed Components
• Podcast title and description
• Episode titles and show notes
• Cover art and category tags
Step 3 – Submit Your Podcast to Major Directories
To maximize exposure, submit your RSS feed to these top platforms:
Apple Podcasts
• Create an Apple ID
• Log in to Apple Podcasts Connect
• Submit your RSS feed
Spotify
• Log in to Spotify for Podcasters
• Submit your RSS feed and verify ownership
Google Podcasts
• Go to Google Podcasts Manager
• Add your RSS feed and verify ownership
Amazon Music & Audible
• Submit your podcast at Amazon Music for Podcasters
Stitcher (Optional)
• Create a Stitcher Partner account and submit your RSS feed
TuneIn (Optional)
• Submit your podcast through TuneIn’s submission form
Step 4 – Promote Across Additional Platforms
Beyond the major directories, distribute your podcast to:
Podcast Aggregators
• Overcast
• Pocket Casts
• Podcast Addict
Social Media & Website
• Share new episodes on platforms like Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Facebook
• Embed episodes on your website or blog
Step 5 – Optimize Metadata for Better Discoverability
Ensure your podcast metadata is accurate and engaging:
Key Optimization Tips
• Use clear, keyword-rich titles and descriptions
• Include detailed show notes with relevant links
• Add episode numbers and guest names where applicable
Step 6 – Keep Your RSS Feed Updated
Maintain an active and accurate RSS feed to avoid distribution issues:
Best Practices
• Update episode details consistently
• Fix broken links or missing metadata
• Ensure your hosting platform remains active
Common Podcast Distribution Mistakes to Avoid
Ignoring Smaller Directories
• Smaller platforms often have loyal, niche audiences
Not Verifying Submissions
• Always check your podcast’s appearance on each platform
Poor Metadata
• Incomplete or inaccurate metadata can hinder discoverability
Ready to Maximize Your Podcast Distribution?
Effective podcast distribution ensures your content reaches listeners wherever they are. By following these steps, you can expand your podcast’s reach, grow your audience, and set your show up for long-term success.
At Social Peak Media, we specialize in full-service podcast production and distribution strategies. Contact us today to make sure your podcast is heard everywhere.
Disclosure: Our blog contains affiliate links to products. We may receive a commission for purchases made through these links. However, this does not impact our reviews and comparisons. We try our best to keep things fair and balanced, in order to help you make the best choice for you.
