What is Podcast Directory?
A podcast directory is a searchable catalog where listeners discover and subscribe to podcasts. Directories read your RSS feed to index your show, making it available to their users for search and subscription.
Major Podcast Directories
| Directory | Audience | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Apple Podcasts | iOS, Mac users | Largest, industry standard |
| Spotify | Spotify users | Hosts own audio copy |
| YouTube Music | Android, YouTube users | Google's podcast platform |
| Amazon Music | Alexa, Amazon users | Smart speaker integration |
| Podcast Index | Open podcast ecosystem | Powers independent apps |
| iHeartRadio | iHeart listeners | Radio crossover audience |
| Stitcher | Stitcher app users | Owned by SiriusXM |
| TuneIn | Smart speaker users | Broad device support |
| Deezer | Deezer music users | Strong in Europe |
| Podcast Addict | Android users | Popular Android app |
How Directories Work
You publish episode
↓
RSS feed updates with new item
↓
Directories poll your feed periodically
↓
Directory indexes new episode
↓
Episode appears in directory search/listings
Directory vs App
| Type | Function | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Directory | Indexes podcasts, provides search | Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Podcast Index |
| App | Plays podcasts, manages subscriptions | Overcast, Pocket Casts, Castro |
| Both | Does both | Apple Podcasts (app + directory) |
Some apps use directories' APIs (especially Apple's) rather than maintaining their own indexes.
Directory Requirements Comparison
| Directory | Artwork Min | Feed Format | Review Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apple | 1400×1400 | RSS 2.0 + iTunes | 24-48 hours |
| Spotify | 1400×1400 | RSS 2.0 | 1-3 days |
| YouTube Music | 1400×1400 | RSS 2.0 | 1-2 days |
| Amazon | 1400×1400 | RSS 2.0 | 2-5 days |
| Podcast Index | Any | RSS 2.0 | Automatic |
Why It Matters
Podcast directories are where listeners find new shows. Submitting to multiple directories maximizes your podcast's discoverability across different audiences and platforms.
Why directory distribution matters:
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Audience fragmentation: Listeners use different apps based on device, preference, and habit.
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Discovery potential: Each directory has different recommendation algorithms and browse sections.
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Platform loyalty: Many listeners won't switch apps to hear your show—meet them where they are.
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No-cost distribution: Directory submissions are free; the only cost is your time.
Distribution strategy:
| Priority | Directories | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Essential | Apple, Spotify, YouTube Music | Combined majority of listeners |
| Important | Amazon, Podcast Index | Smart speakers, open ecosystem |
| Valuable | iHeart, Stitcher, TuneIn | Additional reach |
| Regional | Deezer, JioSaavn | Market-specific audiences |
The long tail of distribution: While Apple and Spotify dominate, the remaining directories collectively represent significant audiences. A show listed everywhere versus only on Apple/Spotify might reach 20-30% more listeners.
Submit once, update everywhere: After initial submission, directories automatically check your RSS feed for new episodes. Publish once, distribute everywhere.
How to Use This in Dispatch
View and submit to all major directories from your distribution settings:
Settings → Distribution:
- See which directories list your podcast
- One-click submission to directories you're not on
- Direct links to your show on each platform
- Submission status and any issues
Priority submissions:
Automatic submissions: Your podcast is automatically submitted to Podcast Index and directories that auto-index from major directories.
Manual submission links: For directories requiring manual submission, we provide your RSS feed URL and direct links to their submission pages with pre-filled information where possible.