Easy Steps: How to Upload Podcast to Apple Podcasts

Are you ready to share your podcast with millions of potential listeners? Apple Podcasts (formerly iTunes) remains the leading podcast directory for iOS users, accounting for about 33% of all audio-only podcast downloads! 

That's an audience you simply can't afford to miss. If you're wondering how to upload a podcast to Apple Podcasts, you've come to the right place. We've created this quick guide to walk you through the entire process from start to finish.

A Quick Look at Apple Podcasts and Why It Matters for Podcasters

Before diving into the technical steps, it's important to understand what the Apple Podcasts directory actually is. Many podcasters mistakenly believe Apple Podcasts is a hosting service where you directly upload your audio files. That's not quite accurate! 

Apple Podcasts, previously known as iTunes, is actually a listening platform that uses an RSS feed to locate and distribute your podcast. In other words, it’s a massive directory that connects listeners with your content, rather than storing your content itself. Your podcast files still need to live somewhere else – on a dedicated podcast hosting service. 

Why is Apple Podcasts so crucial for podcasters? Beyond its massive reach, getting listed on Apple Podcasts often means your show will automatically appear in other podcast apps like Overcast, Castbox, and Pocket Casts, which pull their data from Apple. It's essentially your gateway to the wider pool of podcast listeners!

Essential Prerequisites Before Uploading Your Podcast to Apple Podcasts

Let’s take a look at what you need in place to submit your podcast to the Apple Podcasts directory. 

Setting Up Your Podcast Hosting

With the knowledge that Apple Podcasts doesn't host your audio files, you need a separate podcast hosting service that creates an RSS feed for your show. Popular options include Spotify for Creators (formerly Spotify for Podcasters), Libsyn, Podbean, Buzzsprout, and RSS.com. These hosts actually offer autosubmission to the Apple Podcasts directory – meaning you get the option to submit your show directly from each host’s podcaster dashboard. This makes it really easy for podcasters to get their podcasts on the Apple directory. 

When choosing a podcast host, look for features like:

- Reliable hosting with good uptime

- Generous storage and bandwidth limits

- Easy-to-use interface for uploading episodes

- Analytics to track your performance

- Automatic RSS feed creation

- Distribution tools for multiple platforms 

Your podcast hosting platform is where you'll actually upload your audio files and podcast artwork. The host then creates an RSS feed, which works like coordinates on a map, telling Apple Podcasts where to find your content. 

Creating a Professional RSS Feed for Apple Podcasts

Your RSS feed is the crucial link between your podcast host and Apple Podcasts. It contains all your podcast's metadata – things like your show title, description, artwork, episode titles, and the actual location of your audio files. 

Most hosting platforms automatically generate an RSS feed for you, handling the technical formatting requirements. If your host does this (most do), you can skip worrying about the technical aspects of RSS feed creation. 

However, you should still understand what information needs to be in your RSS feed:

- Podcast title (make it unique and searchable)

- Author name (how you want to be credited)

- Show description (compelling and keyword-rich)

- Category selection (where your podcast fits best)

- Language setting

- Explicit content tag if applicable

- At least one episode (if nothing else, at least a 90 second trailer)

- Episode titles, descriptions, and publish dates

- Links to your podcast artwork 

Pro Tip: If you’re stuck trying to come up with a solid title and description for your podcast, Castmagic can help!

Upload your podcast audio into the platform, and it will generate a transcript of each episode you’ve recorded so far. Then, you can use the pages feature to generate title and description ideas for your podcast. 

You also get a GPT instance for every audio or video file you upload to Castmagic. With our podcaster presets you can create the following for every episode:

- Titles

- Keywords

- Descriptions

- Timestamps

- LinkedIn Posts

- Email newsletter, and more! 

Learn more about Castmagic here.

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

Now let's get into the nitty-gritty of how to upload podcast to Apple Podcasts.  

You might wonder why anyone would choose to manually distribute their podcast if they are using a podcast hosting service that offers auto-submission. It really comes down to one word - control. Some podcasters prefer to control as many aspects of their shows as possible. So with that in mind, let’s explore the steps to distribute your podcast to the Apple Podcasts directory. 

Follow these steps carefully, and you'll have your show available to millions of potential listeners in no time! 

Creating an Apple ID for Apple Podcasts Connect

First, you'll need an Apple ID to access Apple Podcasts Connect, the platform where podcasters manage their shows. You can use an existing personal Apple ID, but we recommend creating a dedicated account for your podcast, especially if you're working with cohosts or a team.

To create a new Apple ID, visit appleid.apple.com or follow the prompts when you first access Apple Podcasts Connect. You'll need to provide:

- A valid email address (do yourself a favor and use the one you signed up for podcast hosting with! This will make it easier to confirm ownership of your show.)

- A strong password

- Security questions

- A valid credit card on file (even though submission is free) 

Once your Apple ID is set up, you're ready to move on to the submission process. 

Navigating Apple Podcasts Connect Dashboard

Now it's time to log in to Apple Podcasts Connect (podcastsconnect.apple.com) using your Apple ID. This is your central dashboard for managing your podcast on Apple's platform. 

When you first log in, you'll see options to add a new show. The dashboard is fairly intuitive, with sections for managing your shows, viewing analytics, and accessing resources.

Submitting Your Podcast RSS Feed to Apple Podcasts

Here's where the actual submission process begins: 

1. From your Apple Podcasts Connect dashboard, click the "+" button next to "Podcasts"

2. Select "New Show"

3. Choose "Add a show with an RSS feed" (don't select "Add a show without an RSS feed" unless you're joining the Apple Podcasters Program for premium subscriptions)

4. Paste your RSS feed URL from your podcast hosting platform

5. Click "Add" and wait while Apple validates your feed

During the validation process, Apple will extract all the information from your RSS feed, including your podcast title, description, podcast cover art, and episode information. This process usually takes just a few minutes but can sometimes take longer. 

If your RSS feed passes validation, you'll see a preview of your podcast. Review all the details carefully to make sure everything appears correct.

Verifying Ownership and Waiting for Approval

Once your feed is validated, you'll need to complete the submission by: 

1. Confirming content rights (indicating that you have the rights to all content in your podcast)

2. Providing contact information

3. Clicking "Submit" to finalize your submission 

After submission, Apple needs to review your podcast before it appears in the directory. This review process typically takes anywhere from 30 minutes to 5 business days. During this time, Apple checks that your podcast meets their content guidelines and technical specifications. 

If there are any issues, Apple will email you with details about what needs to be fixed.

Optimizing Your New Podcast for Apple Podcasts' Search and Discovery

Getting your podcast approved is just the beginning. To attract listeners, you need to optimize your podcast for discoverability. 

Crafting SEO-Friendly Podcast Titles and Descriptions

Remember - Castmagic can help you with this!

Your podcast title and description play crucial roles in how discoverable your show is. Use relevant keywords that potential listeners might search for, but avoid keyword stuffing, which can get your podcast rejected. 

For titles, be clear and descriptive while keeping it catchy. For descriptions, include what your podcast is about, who it's for, what listeners will gain, and your unique perspective—all while naturally incorporating keywords. 

Learn more about writing good podcast descriptions to attract listeners.

Keep in mind Apple uses both the title and author fields for search, so make sure these accurately reflect your content and are optimized for discovery. 

Selecting the Right Categories and Subcategories

Apple Podcasts organizes shows into categories and subcategories. Choosing the right ones helps listeners find your content. You can select up to three categories, but Apple only uses the first one for their directory. 

Pro tip: If you're just starting out, consider selecting a less competitive subcategory as your primary category.

Your podcast will rank higher and gain more visibility than if you choose a highly competitive main category.

Creating Standout Podcast Artwork for Apple Podcasts

Your podcast artwork is often the first impression potential listeners have of your show. Apple has specific requirements:

- Square dimensions (we recommend 3000x3000 pixels for best results)

- JPG or PNG format

- RGB colorspace

- 72 dpi resolution 

Beyond the technical requirements, design your artwork to stand out in the crowded podcast landscape. Use bold, easy-to-read text that's visible even as a small thumbnail, as most people will see it first on mobile devices. 

Managing Your Podcast After Successful Upload

Congratulations! Your podcast is now live on Apple Podcasts. But your work isn't done yet. Now, you need to manage your show effectively. 

Updating Episodes and RSS Feed Information

The beauty of the RSS feed system is that you don't need to submit each new episode to Apple Podcasts manually. When you publish new episodes on your hosting platform, your RSS feed automatically updates, and Apple Podcasts checks this feed regularly (usually every 24 hours). 

To add new episodes, simply upload them to your podcast host, fill in all the episode details, and publish. The new episode should appear in Apple Podcasts within 24 hours. If it doesn't, there might be an issue with your RSS feed or hosting service and you should get in touch with your podcast host’s customer service team. 

Leveraging Apple Podcasts Analytics for Growth

Once your podcast is established on Apple Podcasts, you can access valuable analytics through Apple Podcasts Connect.  

These insights show you:

- How many people are listening

- Where they're located

- How much of each episode they consume

- Which episodes perform best 

Use these insights to refine your content strategy, focus on topics that resonate with your audience, and understand your listeners better.

Troubleshooting Common Issues When Uploading to Apple Podcasts

Even with careful preparation, you might encounter some issues when uploading your podcast to Apple Podcasts. Let's explore some common problems and their solutions.

If Apple rejects your podcast, it could be for several reasons:

- Podcast artwork doesn't meet requirements (too small, wrong format, or contains prohibited content)

- Your RSS feed has errors or validation problems

- Your content violates Apple's guidelines

- The language setting doesn't match your actual content

- You didn't tag explicit content appropriately

- You're trying to submit duplicate content

- You don't have any episodes live yet (a lot of new podcasts just load their trailer as their "first episode" to get listed on Apple Podcasts)

If your podcast isn't appearing after approval, be patient – it can sometimes take up to 24 hours to populate across all Apple Podcasts apps and regions. 

If your new episodes aren't updating, check your hosting platform to ensure they're properly published and that your RSS feed is updating correctly.

Advanced Tips for Apple Podcasts Success

With your show on Apple Podcasts, it’s time to leverage your ratings and reviews for discoverability. And, you’ll want to promote the fact that your show is available on the podcast directory as well.

Utilizing Apple Podcasts Ratings and Reviews

Ratings and reviews are crucial to grow a podcast audience. They’re one of many signals Apple's algorithm uses as proof your show is valuable. This could potentially boost your position in search results and category rankings. 

Encourage your listeners to leave ratings and reviews by mentioning it in your episodes, making it part of your standard outro, or occasionally creating special incentives for reviews.

Promoting Your Apple Podcasts Presence

Once your podcast is live on Apple Podcasts, promote it everywhere! Use custom Apple Podcasts links in your social media, email signature, website, and promotional materials. 

You can create these links through the Marketing Tools section of Apple Podcasts Connect or by using the "Share" option in the Apple Podcasts app. 

Consider embedding the Apple Podcasts player on your website to make it easy for visitors to sample and subscribe to your show.

The Next Chapter: Building on Your Apple Podcasts Success

Uploading your podcast to Apple Podcasts is a milestone worth celebrating! You've now placed your content on one of the world's largest podcast platforms, opening the door to potentially thousands of new listeners. But remember, this is just the beginning!

To maximize your reach, consider expanding to other podcast directories like Spotify, YouTube Podcasts, and Amazon Music. Each platform has its own audience, and being available everywhere ensures no potential fan misses out on your content. 

Most importantly, focus on creating consistent, high-quality content that resonates with your audience. The most successful podcasts are those that deliver value episode after episode, building a loyal community of listeners who not only tune in regularly but also spread the word about your show. 

Now that you know how to upload podcast to Apple Podcasts, we encourage you to take action today! Set up your hosting, prepare your RSS feed, and submit your show. And don’t forget to check out Castmagic to make quick work of your episode titles, podcast descriptions and more! Grab a free trial of Castmagic here!