Best Podcast Directories to List Your Show

Did you know that over 580 million people worldwide listen to podcasts regularly? That's a massive audience waiting to discover your show! But here's the catch – they can only find you if you're properly listed in the podcast directories (aka podcast apps) they use to tune into podcasts. 

Think of podcast directories as the digital shelves where your audio content sits, waiting to be discovered by eager listeners who browse through categories, search for topics, or stumble upon recommendations. 

We've found that most podcast listeners are incredibly loyal to their preferred platforms. 

Someone who uses Spotify might never check Apple Podcasts, while an Android user might exclusively use YouTube Podcasts (Google’s replacement for Google Podcasts). This means that if you're only listed in one or two directories, you're potentially missing out on a huge segment of your target audience! 

The solution? Cast a wider net by submitting your podcast to multiple directories. Let’s dive into where your show should be displayed.

What are Podcast Directories?

Before diving into our recommendations, let's clarify what podcast directories actually are. Simply put, a podcast directory is an app or website that collects podcast RSS feeds and makes them searchable by category, topic, or keyword. These directories serve as both podcast players and podcast search engines, helping listeners discover new content that matches their interests. 

When we talk about podcast hosting platforms versus podcast directories, there's an important distinction. Your podcast host stores your audio files and generates your RSS feed, while directories simply read that feed to display your content to their users. Think of your hosting platform as the warehouse where your product is stored, and directories as the various retail stores that sell it. 

What makes podcast directories so crucial for growth is that they've already done the hard work of building an audience. Apple Podcasts, for instance, accounts for approximately 33% of all podcast downloads worldwide. By tapping into these established ecosystems, you leverage their existing user base to grow your own audience. 

Don’t have a podcast yet? Click here to learn how to start a podcast!

Essential Podcast Directories Every Show Needs

Let’s take a look at the five podcast directories every show should be distributed to.

1. Apple Podcasts (formerly iTunes)

Apple Podcasts remains the undisputed heavyweight in the podcast distribution world. As the second most popular podcast listening app, it accounts for about one-third of all podcast downloads globally. We consider this directory non-negotiable for every podcaster. 

What makes Apple Podcasts particularly valuable is its ripple effect – once you're listed here, your show automatically appears in numerous other apps that pull from their directory, including Overcast, PocketCasts, Castro, and several more. This single submission can potentially put your podcast in front of listeners across dozens of different apps! 

The submission process involves creating an Apple ID, submitting your RSS feed through Apple Podcasts Connect, and waiting for approval, which typically takes a few hours. Once approved, you can claim your show to access listener analytics and manage your podcast details.

2. Spotify for Creators

Spotify has rapidly become the most popular podcast app, accounting for approximately 35.4% of all podcast downloads. With over 675 million active users, Spotify offers podcasters access to an enormous audience that's already comfortable with audio content consumption. 

What's particularly advantageous about Spotify is that users who primarily use the platform for music can easily discover your podcast without needing to download a separate app. This creates a natural pathway for new podcast listeners to find your content. 

Submitting to Spotify is straightforward through their Spotify for Creators (previously Spotify for Podcasters) portal. Their platform offers detailed analytics that help you understand your audience's listening habits, which can be invaluable for content planning. 

Related: Learn how to promote music on Spotify.

3. YouTube Podcasts aka YouTube Music

YouTube Podcasts has emerged as Google's primary podcasting hub, replacing Google Podcasts. With 77 million subscribers and over 1 billion annual listeners, YouTube Podcasts represents a massive opportunity for podcast growth. The platform now allows listeners to access podcasts without requiring a premium subscription. 

While many podcasters think of YouTube as a video platform, it's important to note that audio-only podcasts can thrive here too. For maximum impact, we recommend creating a simple visual element or audiogram to accompany your episodes.

Read our guide to Video Podcasts Essentials if you’re thinking about starting a video podcast.

4. Amazon Music and Audible

Amazon has entered the podcasting space with a bang, offering podcast listings through both Amazon Music and Audible. With over 55 million listeners, these platforms give your podcast exposure to audiences who may primarily consume audiobooks or music but are open to podcast content. 

What's particularly valuable about these platforms is their integration with Amazon's ecosystem, including Alexa-enabled devices. This means someone could discover your podcast simply by asking their Echo device to play content related to your topic.

5. TuneIn Radio

TuneIn Radio may only account for about 0.1% of podcast downloads, but it offers unique distribution opportunities that other platforms don't. As the default podcast player for Amazon Alexa devices and with integration in Tesla cars, TuneIn puts your podcast in places where listeners have focused attention and few distractions. 

With over 75 million active users, TuneIn helps your podcast reach audiences in contexts where they're actively seeking audio content to fill their time, such as during commutes or household activities.

Beyond the Basics: Secondary Directories Worth Your Time

While the "Big Five" directories should be your first priority, there are several secondary platforms that can significantly expand your reach: 

Podcast Index

Podcast Index is an open-sourced, web-based app available to all podcasters. This directory was created to preserve and protect the open podcasting ecosystem and serves as a valuable resource for ensuring your podcast has maximum discoverability across the world of independent podcasts.

Listen Notes

When it comes to podcast discovery, Listen Notes has dubbed itself "the best podcast search engine.” Unlike platforms that prioritize popular shows, Listen Notes excels at showcasing a diverse range of podcasts related to specific searches, making it incredibly valuable for independent creators. Your podcast is most likely already listed in their extensive database, but taking the time to claim your show ensures your information is accurate and up-to-date.

Castbox

Accounting for about 2.2% of podcast downloads, Castbox is gaining traction thanks to its SEO and AI-optimized features. Their advanced search capabilities make it easier for listeners to find specific content, potentially helping your podcast reach more targeted audiences. As a bonus, Castbox offers podcasters access to their Creator Studio with analytics and social features for listener engagement. 

Podchaser

Often described as the "IMDB of podcasts," Podchaser is a comprehensive database that allows listeners to rate shows, review individual episodes, and discover new content through curated lists. By claiming your podcast on Podchaser, you make it easier for potential listeners to learn about you and your show beyond just episode descriptions.

Pandora

With over 55 million monthly active listeners, Pandora offers podcasters access to a substantial audience through their powerful recommendation engine. Their Podcast Genome Project aims to provide personalized podcast recommendations based on listening habits, which can help your show reach listeners who enjoy similar content.

iHeartRadio

iHeartRadio boasts over 128 million diverse users across 850+ stations. While it's only available in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Australia, and New Zealand, the platform reaches listeners across more than 250 devices, making it an excellent addition to your distribution strategy if you're targeting audiences in these regions.

Social Podcast Apps: Building Community Around Your Show

Beyond traditional directories, a new category of social podcast apps has emerged, combining listening features with community-building tools: 

Goodpods

Available on both iOS and Android, Goodpods functions like "Goodreads for podcasts," allowing listeners to recommend shows, follow friends, and see what others are enjoying. This social element creates organic discovery opportunities for your podcast. 

PodRoom

PodRoom fosters community among podcast listeners through individual chatrooms for every podcast episode. This feature enables direct engagement with your audience and allows listeners to connect with each other over shared interests related to your content.

Podyssey

Podyssey's free app offers an online podcasting community where users can share recommendations, create custom profiles, make playlists, and connect with podcast fans from specific networks. This platform is excellent for building a dedicated community around your show.

Best Practices for Podcast Directory Submissions

Getting your podcast on podcast directories isn’t enough. If you want to get found, there are several things you should consider doing to your podcast to increase its discoverability.

Optimize Your Show Description

Your podcast description is prime real estate for both potential listeners and search algorithms. We recommend crafting a compelling description that includes your primary keywords naturally while clearly communicating your podcast's value proposition. Keep your most important information in the first 1-2 sentences, as some directories display truncated descriptions. Learn how to write better podcast descriptions.

Create Standout Artwork

Your podcast artwork serves as the first visual impression for potential listeners scrolling through directories. Create high-quality, eye-catching artwork that looks good at various sizes (from large displays down to tiny thumbnails). Ensure your text is minimal and readable even at small sizes. Check out our guide to podcast cover art.

Choose Categories Strategically

Most directories allow you to select 1-3 categories for your podcast. Choose your primary category based on your core topic, but consider strategic secondary categories that might help you stand out in less competitive listings while still being relevant to your content.

Consistency Across Platforms

Maintain consistent branding, descriptions, and category selections across all directories. This professional approach not only helps listeners recognize your show regardless of platform but also strengthens your podcast's overall discoverability through consistent metadata.

Use AI to Optimize Your Podcast

Did you know that Castmagic can help you write podcast episode descriptions, come up with engaging titles, and even write social media posts? Our podcaster presets were designed to help you make quick work of promoting your podcast to your ideal listeners. With Castmagic you can:

– Generate transcripts of your show

– Write show notes automatically

– Draft email newsletters promoting your show

– Write Instagram Reels scripts

– Generate LinkedIn posts and more 

Click here to learn more about Castmagic.

Monitoring and Maintaining Your Podcast Listings

Once you've submitted your show to various podcast directories, your work isn't finished if you want to be a top podcast. We recommend regularly checking your listings to ensure everything appears correctly and is up-to-date. Some directories may display outdated information if there are issues with your RSS feed. 

Additionally, take advantage of the analytics offered by different platforms to understand where your listeners are coming from and how they're engaging with your content. This information can help you refine your content strategy and potentially identify directories where additional promotion would be beneficial.

Your Path to Podcast Growth Starts With Smart Distribution

We hope you enjoyed our guide to podcast directories. If you want to have the best podcast, you need to get on the essential platforms all the popular podcasts are on. The most important takeaway? Don't limit your audience by limiting your distribution for podcast listening. From Apple Podcasts to TuneIn, Spotify to Castbox, your audio show should be everywhere!

Strategically submitting your podcast's RSS feed to multiple directories helps you maximize your chances of becoming a top podcast and connecting with listeners wherever they prefer to consume content. Remember, each directory represents a different audience segment, and together they form the complete picture of your potential listenership. 

Now it's time to take action! Review your current podcast directory listings, identify gaps in your distribution strategy, and start submitting to any platforms you've overlooked. Your next loyal listener might be searching for content exactly like yours – make sure every podcast addict can find you! 

And, if you want help with drafting the best podcast episode descriptions and coming up with engaging titles for your audio, don’t forget about Castmagic. Click here to try it for free!