Complete Guide to Podcast Distribution Platforms
Effective podcast distribution is essential for reaching your audience wherever they listen. This comprehensive guide covers all major podcast distribution platforms and how to submit your show to each.
What is Podcast Distribution?
Podcast distribution is the process of making your podcast available across multiple platforms, apps, and directories. With a single RSS feed from Dispatch, you can reach listeners on dozens of platforms.
Why Distribution Matters
- Maximize reach: Listeners have preferred apps
- Discoverability: Each platform has unique discovery
- SEO benefits: Multiple listings improve search presence
- Platform features: Access unique platform tools
- Audience growth: More platforms = more potential listeners
Top 20 Podcast Distribution Platforms
Tier 1: Essential (Submit First)
- Apple Podcasts - Largest directory, powers others
- Spotify - #2 platform, 500M+ users
- YouTube Music - Google's podcast home
- Amazon Music - Alexa and Audible integration
Tier 2: Major Platforms
- iHeartRadio - 150M+ users, radio integration
- Pandora - 50M+ users, SiriusXM network
- TuneIn - Global radio and podcast platform
- Podcast Index - Powers 100+ podcast apps
Tier 3: Important Apps
- Pocket Casts - Premium cross-platform app
- Overcast - Popular iOS app
- Castro - Innovative iOS app
- Podcast Addict - #1 Android app
- Castbox - 35M users, AI recommendations
Tier 4: Discovery & Directory
- Podchaser - "IMDb of podcasts"
- Listen Notes - Podcast search engine
- Player FM - Cross-platform with web presence
- Deezer - International streaming platform
Tier 5: Additional Reach
- Podbean - Hosting and directory
- Samsung Podcasts - Pre-installed on Galaxy
- RSS.com - Additional directory listing
Distribution Strategy
Week 1: Core Platforms
- Submit to Apple Podcasts
- Submit to Spotify
- Submit to YouTube Music
- Submit to Amazon Music
Week 2: Major Platforms
- Submit to iHeartRadio
- Submit to Pandora
- Submit to TuneIn
- Submit to Podcast Index
Week 3: Apps & Discovery
- Verify on Pocket Casts
- Verify on Overcast
- Submit to Podchaser
- Submit to Listen Notes
- Submit to Player FM
Week 4: Complete Coverage
- Submit remaining platforms
- Verify all listings
- Claim profiles where possible
What You Need for Submission
Every platform requires:
- RSS feed URL: Your Dispatch feed
- At least one episode: Published and live
- Cover artwork: 1400×1400 minimum
- Podcast metadata: Title, description, categories
Dispatch Makes Distribution Easy
Your Dispatch RSS feed includes all required tags:
- Apple Podcasts namespace tags
- Proper artwork references
- Episode enclosures
- Category and language data
Simply copy your feed URL:
https://feeds.dispatch.fm/your-podcast-slug
Tracking Your Submissions
Recommended tracking:
| Platform | Submitted | Approved | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apple Podcasts | Date | Date | Link |
| Spotify | Date | Date | Link |
| ... | ... | ... | ... |
After Submission
- Monitor approvals: Check email regularly
- Verify listings: Search for your podcast
- Claim profiles: Where available
- Update as needed: Keep metadata current
Common Issues and Solutions
Feed Not Accepted
- Verify URL is correct
- Ensure feed is publicly accessible
- Check for required tags (Dispatch includes these)
Slow Approval
- Apple: 1-5 days
- Spotify: 24 hours
- iHeartRadio: 1-2 weeks
- Follow up if longer than expected
Episodes Not Syncing
- Verify Dispatch is publishing correctly
- Allow 24-48 hours for sync
- Check platform-specific refresh options
Maximizing Platform Features
Apple Podcasts
- Encourage ratings and reviews
- Monitor Apple Podcasts Connect
Spotify
- Use Spotify for Podcasters analytics
- Engage with Q&A and Polls
YouTube Music
- Consider video podcasting
- Optimize for search
Next Steps
- Review individual platform guides
- Start with Tier 1 submissions
- Work through remaining platforms
- Track and verify each listing
- Claim and optimize profiles