Have you ever wondered how some podcasts rank at the top of Apple Podcasts, while others get buried?

Today, I’m sharing the secret to ranking on Apple Podcasts, so you can get more visibility, downloads, and listeners for your show.

Now, let’s get into the five key factors that influence your podcast rankings!

But before we dive into the strategies, let’s first talk about how Apple Podcasts actually ranks shows because it’s NOT just about downloads.

Apple Podcasts Algorithm Factors:

1. New Subscriber Activity: The more people subscribing in a short period, the higher your ranking.

2. Listener Engagement: Ratings, reviews, and how long people listen to your episodes matter.

3. Episode Downloads: Apple factors in how many times your episodes are downloaded.

4. Consistency : Regular uploads help keep your ranking strong

5. Search & SEO Optimization – The right keywords in your podcast title and description make a difference.

Ranking high on Apple isn’t about being the biggest podcast—it’s about being STRATEGIC!

If you want to rank on Apple Podcasts, your launch week is CRUCIAL! 

Apple prioritizes new podcasts that get a lot of activity in a short time.

So, this is How to maximize your launch week:

• Drop 3-5 episodes on launch day. This gives new listeners more to binge!

• Encourage your audience to subscribe & download your episodes. Ask your audience to subscribe, not just listen.

• Leverage your launch team. Have a group of supporters ready to download, review, and share.

• Get featured in niche communities. Promote in Facebook groups if allowed, LinkedIn, and Instagram Stories and wherever your audience is hanging out
  

Think of your podcast launch like a movie premiere so the more buzz you create, the more Apple notices!

Just like Google, Apple Podcasts has a search function which means podcast SEO is key for ranking higher.

Here are some Podcast SEO Optimization Tips:

Use Keywords in Your Podcast Title. Instead of “The Jane Show,” try “The Jane Show: Online Marketing for Entrepreneurs.”

Optimize Your Show Description. Include relevant keywords naturally, without stuffing.

Write Compelling Episode Titles. Example: Instead of “Episode 3: Marketing Tips,” use “How to Attract More Clients with Instagram Marketing.”

Include Tags & Categories. Choose the best podcast category and use relevant tags to improve discoverability.

Apple scans titles, descriptions, and episode names so use words people actually search for!

Reviews don’t directly affect Apple rankings BUT they do influence listener trust, which increases subscribers and engagement, and they are really great for social proof

Here is How to get more podcast reviews (without begging!):

1. Ask in your episodes: “If you’re enjoying the show, please leave a quick review. It helps so much!”

2. Run a review giveaway – Offer a small prize for listeners who leave a review.

3. Make it EASY – Show how to leave a review in your Instagram Stories or email list.
   

Now Consistency is one of the most overlooked ranking factors—but it’s HUGE. Apple rewards shows that keep listeners coming back and posting regularly.

Best practices for podcast consistency:

Stick to a schedule. Whether it’s weekly or biweekly, be reliable!

Encourage binge-listening. Mention past episodes listeners might enjoy.

Use strong calls-to-action. Ask listeners to subscribe, follow, and share each episode.

The longer someone listens to your episode, the better! Keep content engaging so people don’t drop off early.

If you follow these steps, you’ll have a better chance of ranking high and getting more listeners!

If you need help launching your podcast my Podcast Launch Simplified course is opening the doors on March 17th and inside you will have an exact strategy to rank on the apple charts.

 You can join the waitlist at www.podcastlaunchsimplified.com/yes

Want to hear my full discussion on this? 

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