Are you ready to launch your podcast but feeling overwhelmed by the submission process? Discover why getting your show on Apple and Spotify is necessary for reaching the biggest audience. I'm breaking down the essentials, and sharing common mistakes to avoid!

You're likely already aware of the significance of Apple Podcasts and Spotify. However, what you might not know is that getting your podcast onto these platforms requires manual submission.

Unlike some other podcast directories, you need to take extra steps to ensure your show appears on these particular apps. Don't worry; it's not as daunting as it sounds.

Why Apple and Spotify Matter

Apple Podcasts was the platform where podcasting really took off, and it continues to be one of the most popular choices for podcast listeners. With integration into iPhones and other Apple devices, many people consider it their first stop when searching for new shows. Missing out on Apple Podcasts could mean missing a significant share of your potential audience. Its prominence makes it a platform that’s non-negotiable in the podcasting landscape.

In recent years, Spotify has rapidly ascended in the podcasting space. They've invested in exclusive deals, cutting-edge podcast technology, and user-friendly features. Millions of users flock to Spotify daily to discover new shows, making it another essential platform for any podcaster. Between Apple Podcasts and Spotify, you're covering a massive portion of podcast listeners.

The Necessity of Manual Submission for Apple and Spotify

Why is it necessary to submit your podcast manually to Apple and Spotify?

Simple: these platforms offer tools and benefits that third-party submissions can't match.

Manual submission ensures your podcast meets their standards and allows you direct access to invaluable tools like analytics and troubleshooting features.

Submitting manually builds a direct relationship with these platforms, giving you more control over how your podcast is presented and managed.

Avoiding Common Pitfalls when submitting your podcast to directories

Manual submission helps you avoid common mistakes, such as incorrect artwork, missing metadata, and feed validation errors.

By manually handling these elements, you can ensure your podcast meets all the necessary criteria and stands the best chance of approval.

Step-by-Step Guide to Submitting Your Podcast to Apple Podcasts

Step 1: Create or Use an Existing Apple ID

You will need an Apple ID. Go to appleid.apple.com to create a new ID if you don't already have one. This will be your login for accessing Apple Podcast Connect, the hub where you'll manage your podcast.

Step 2: Access Podcast Connect

Navigate to podcastsconnect.apple.com and log in using your Apple ID. This is where you’ll submit your podcast and access various tools Apple offers.

Step 3: Obtain Your RSS Feed

Your podcast host (like Buzzsprout or Libsyn) will provide you with your RSS feed link. This feeds all your episode information, artwork, and details into Apple Podcasts. Copy this link.

Step 4: Submit Your RSS Feed

Paste your RSS feed link into Apple Podcast Connect. Apple will validate it to ensure it's formatted correctly and meets all their standards.

Step 5: Wait for Approval

After your feed is validated, Apple will review and approve your podcast. This process usually takes 24 to 48 hours, but often, it’s much faster, sometimes even less than an hour in my experience.

Apple’s Analytics Tools

Apple offers amazing analytics, allowing you to see metrics like consumption rate, followers, unfollowers, and engaged listeners. Engaged listeners are particularly valuable - they typically listen to at least 40% or 20 minutes of an episode, making them more likely to become loyal fans.

Step-by-Step Guide to Submitting Your Podcast to Spotify

Step 1: Access Spotify for Podcasters

Go to podcasters.spotify.com and sign up or log in. Remember, you'll be importing an RSS feed, not starting a new show.

Step 2: Obtain and Submit Your RSS Feed

Copy your RSS feed link from your podcast host and paste it into Spotify for Podcasters.

Step 3: Verify Ownership

Spotify will send you a verification email. Click the link in the email to confirm you're the podcast owner.

Step 4: Fill in Basic Information

Provide essential details about your podcast, like its category and language.

Step 5: Wait for Approval

Spotify typically approves podcasts quickly, often within a few hours. Once approved, your show will be live on Spotify, and you'll receive a Spotify-specific link.

Spotify’s Analytics Tools

Spotify also offers fantastic analytics, covering consumption rate, demographic data like age and gender, and even listener habits. These insights can be invaluable for tailoring your content to your audience's preferences.

Submitting to Other Podcast Directories

Why Use Your Podcast Host?

For platforms like Amazon Music, Podcast Index, Podcast Addict, and Podchaser, submission through your podcast host is the best route. Unlike Apple and Spotify, most directories don't have strict guidelines for verifying podcast ownership. Your podcast host handles the technical setup, ensuring changes you make are automatically synced across all directories.

Benefits of Simplicity

Submitting through your podcast host simplifies the process and ensures consistency. Your host acts as a middleman, managing the technical aspects, including pushing updates across all platforms where your podcast is listed.

So, submitting your podcast to Apple Podcasts and Spotify is a crucial step in launching a successful show. Manual submission allows you to build a direct relationship with these platforms, giving you greater control and access to advanced tools. Meanwhile, your podcast host can handle submissions to other directories, making the process easier and more efficient.

Next Steps

Ready to take the next step in your podcasting journey? Don't forget to take my free quiz, "How Ready Are You to Launch Your Podcast?"

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