iHeartRadio Podcast Submission Guide
iHeartRadio is one of the largest audio platforms in the United States, combining radio, music, and podcasts. The iHeartRadio podcast submission process gives you access to their dedicated podcast listeners and powerful promotional platform.
Why Submit to iHeartRadio?
- Massive reach: 150+ million registered users
- Radio integration: Cross-promotion with radio stations
- Curated playlists: Featured in podcast collections
- Live events: iHeartRadio Music Festival exposure
- Free submission: No cost for podcasters
Requirements for iHeartRadio Podcast Submission
- Valid RSS feed with published episodes
- Square cover artwork (1400×1400 minimum)
- Complete podcast metadata
- Professional content quality
Step-by-Step iHeartRadio Submission
Step 1: Access iHeartRadio for Podcasters
- Go to podcasters.iheart.com
- Click "Submit a Podcast"
- Create an account or sign in
Step 2: Enter Your RSS Feed
- Paste your Dispatch RSS feed URL:
https://feeds.dispatch.fm/your-podcast-slug - Click "Fetch Feed"
- Verify your podcast information loads correctly
Step 3: Complete Your Profile
- Add or confirm podcast description
- Select appropriate categories
- Add creator/host information
- Upload additional images if needed
Step 4: Submit for Review
- Review all entered information
- Accept terms and conditions
- Click "Submit"
iHeartRadio Review Process
- Review time: 1-2 weeks typically
- Notification: Email upon approval or feedback
- Criteria: Content quality, production value, metadata
After Approval
Your podcast on iHeartRadio:
- Appears in podcast directory
- Available on iHeartRadio app (iOS, Android)
- Accessible via iHeartRadio.com
- May be featured in curated collections
- Updates automatically from RSS feed
iHeartRadio Podcast Features
For Listeners
- Download episodes for offline listening
- Create podcast playlists
- Set sleep timers
- Adjust playback speed
- Get personalized recommendations
For Podcasters
- Analytics dashboard
- Audience insights
- Promotional opportunities
- Potential for network partnerships
Optimizing for iHeartRadio
- Professional audio quality: iHeartRadio listeners expect radio-quality production
- Complete metadata: Fill in all available fields
- Engaging descriptions: Help discovery through search
- Consistent branding: Use your podcast artwork across platforms
- Regular episodes: Maintain a consistent publishing schedule
Promotional Opportunities
iHeartRadio offers unique promotional options:
- Featured podcast placements
- Cross-promotion with radio shows
- Participation in iHeartRadio podcast networks
- Potential for live event integration
Troubleshooting iHeartRadio Submission
Feed Fetch Failed
- Verify RSS feed URL is correct
- Ensure feed is publicly accessible
- Check for valid RSS format
Slow Approval
- iHeartRadio has stricter review standards
- Ensure professional production quality
- Complete all metadata fields
- Follow up via podcasters support if needed
Podcast Not Updating
- RSS feed changes can take 24-48 hours
- Verify Dispatch is publishing correctly
- Check iHeartRadio dashboard for sync status