As a coach and podcaster, you’ve poured your heart and soul into creating a podcast that easily nurtures your audience. Each episode is a gem packed with wisdom.
You finally hit the ‘publish’ button, expecting to connect with eager listeners from around the world. But days turn into weeks, and you’re met with an echoing silence instead of applause.
Sound familiar? Well, it’s not about your content but where it’s listed! Yes – Podcast directories!
The difference between success and obscurity often lies in being seen in the right places by the right people.
If you’re wondering how to attract more ears to your podcasts or why getting listed matters so much, then keep reading because we’ll be diving deep into that. In this post, we’ll cover:
- What is a podcast directory
- Why you should be listing your podcast on multiple podcast directories
- The importance of your RSS feed for podcast directory listings
- Top podcast directories to get listed on
- How to promote your podcast
What Is A Podcast Directory?
The truth is, your podcast distribution isn’t entirely up to you!
A podcast directory is a platform that helps listeners discover new podcasts and gives creators an opportunity to reach more people. Think of it as the digital equivalent of your favorite bookstore, but instead of books, you find episodes from various podcasters worldwide.
Think about it. Each day, when you hit the Spotify icon on your phone, you’re greeted with new episodes of your favorite podcasts. Have you ever wondered how that happens?
Well, podcast directories use RSS feeds to keep track of each show’s content updates. Every time you publish a new episode on your hosting platform, the RSS feed sends this information out to all directories where your show is listed.
Podcast fanatics refresh their feed each morning, and voila, your show pops up without you lifting a finger.
Listing in these directories can increase the visibility of your coaching podcasts because they serve as hubs for avid podcast listeners searching for their next listen.
The Importance of Your RSS Feed for Podcast Directory Listings
In the podcast space, one thing matters more than epic content. That’s your RSS feed.
RSS, which stands for Really Simple Syndication, is a standardized web feed that allows users to access updates to online content in a standardized, computer-readable format.
It’s commonly used for distributing frequently updated content such as blog entries, news headlines, audio, and video – and, in this case – podcast episodes, in a standardized way that can be easily consumed by various applications.
Here are the key components of an RSS feed:
- Title: The title of the feed.
- Description: A brief description or summary of the content.
- Link: The URL to the website or resource that the feed is associated with.
- Item: Each item in the feed represents an individual piece of content, such as a blog post or podcast episode. Each item typically has a title, link, description, and publication date.
For podcasts, the RSS feed is crucial because it contains information about each episode, including titles, descriptions, media file URLs, and more. Podcast directories, like Apple Podcasts and Google Podcasts, use the RSS feed to gather and display your podcast content to users.
This way, you can get on to as many podcast directories as possible without having to manually input the data on each podcast directory separately.
The process for getting your podcast uploaded on podcast directories is incredibly similar. It comes down to ensuring your RSS feed is accurate.
Why List Your Coaching Podcast On Different Directories?
Podcast directories are like the bustling marketplaces of the digital audio world. They’re where listeners find new content and podcasters can reach a wider audience.
The decision to list your coaching podcast on different directories isn’t just about spreading your message as far as possible; it’s also about finding the right ears for what you have to say.
1. Finding the right audience
You’ve worked hard crafting insightful episodes to help others in their personal growth journey. How can you ensure your hard-crafted content reaches the right people who will benefit from it? Listing on multiple directories helps cast a wider net, increasing your chances of reaching potential clients.
Different platforms attract different types of listeners. By getting listed across several platforms, you increase your chances of being discovered by individuals who resonate with your unique approach and perspective.
You can Google podcasts that are in your niche to see where they’re listed to ensure you’re competitive.
2. Increasing discoverability and credibility
Beyond reaching more people, listing in various directories has another advantage: boosting discoverability and credibility.
In addition, having a presence across multiple reputable platforms lends an air of authority and legitimacy, which may appeal to potential clients and collaborators or sponsors interested in aligning themselves with established voices within specific niches.
3. Gaining a competitive edge
We live in a time when everyone seems to be launching podcasts—how do you stand out from the crowd? Getting listed across multiple channels gives prospective listeners more opportunities to stumble upon (and fall in love with) what makes YOUR show special amidst this sea of options.
4. The SEO benefits
Lastly, remember the perks of search engine optimization (SEO). Being listed on more directories increases your backlinks, all pointing towards your website. It’s a great boost for visibility.
Top Podcast Directories to Get Listed On
Okay, so now that you understand what an RSS feed is and why podcast directories are important, let’s get listed, shall we?
If you’re a coach with a podcast, getting listed on top directories can make all the difference. Which should you prioritize? Here are some to consider:
1. Apple Podcasts
iTunes is the O.G. of digital audio streaming. So it’s no surprise that its sister platform, Apple Podcasts, is the top podcast directory, claiming nearly 40% of podcast listeners and downloads.
Here’s how you get your podcasts listed:
- Step One: Visit the Apple Podcasts Connect website.
- Step Two: Sign in with your Apple ID. If you don’t have one, you’ll need to create it.
- Step Three: Click the ‘+’ icon to add a new podcast.
- Step Four: Fill in Podcast Details: Enter your podcast’s RSS link and verify your podcast details, including title, description, and artwork.
- Step Five: Make sure your podcast artwork meets Apple’s specifications.
- Step Six: Complete all the required information.
- Step Seven: Submit for review!
Apple will review your submission, and if everything is in order, your podcast will be added to Apple Podcasts! It may take some time for Apple to review and approve your podcast. This can range from a few hours to a few days. Once your podcast is approved, you’ll receive a confirmation email from Apple.
You’re ready to share your podcast with the world!
2. Google Podcasts
The Google equivalent of Apple, this platform offers wide exposure as well. Here’s how you get listed:
- Step One: Visit the Google Play Music Podcast Portal.
- Step Two: Sign in with your Google account. If you don’t have one, create one. Use a business-related term for your Gmail address.
- Step Three: Click the ‘+’ icon to add a new podcast.
- Step Four: Fill in Podcast Details: Enter your podcast’s RSS feed link and verify your podcast details, including title, description, and artwork.
- Step Five: Make sure your podcast artwork meets Google’s specifications.
- Step Six: Complete all the required information.
- Step Seven: Submit for review!
Here’s a Help Center article from Google in case you need more support.
3. Spotify
Just behind Apple Podcasts, Spotify is in second place for most popular podcast directories, with nearly 30% of the claim.
- Step One: Visit the Spotify for Podcasters website.
- Step Two: Log in with your existing Spotify account or create one if you don’t have one.
- Step Three: After logging in, click the “Get Started” button.
- Step Four: Enter your podcast’s RSS feed link when prompted. Spotify will then validate your feed and display your podcast information.
- Step Five: Spotify will ask you to verify ownership of your podcast. This typically involves selecting an option from your podcast hosting provider to verify your association with the feed.
- Step Six: Review your podcast details on the Spotify for Podcasters platform to ensure accuracy.
- Step Seven: Click on the “Submit” button to send your podcast for Spotify’s review.
4. Overcast
This is an iOS app known for its sleek design and superior audio quality – ideal if your audience loves listening on their iPhones. The unique thing about Overcast is that it pulls podcast information from your publicly available RSS feed, so there’s no direct submission process to Overcast itself.
Ensure your podcast is submitted to other major directories like Apple, Spotify, and Google Podcasts. Overcast will automatically pick up your podcast details from these directories.
5. TuneIn
This platform isn’t just for podcasts; it also offers online radio stations. Being here gives you another way to reach potential clients, so don’t skip it.
- Step One: Submit this form with your podcast details on the TuneIn site.
- Step Two: Await confirmation via email!
6. iHeartRadio
iHeartRadio is a free digital radio and music streaming service that offers access to live radio stations, podcasts, and curated playlists. Here’s how to get your playlist on their site:
- Step One: Go to the iHeartRadio website’s “Submit Your Podcast” section.
- Step Two: Create an account or log in.
- Step Three: Follow the instructions to submit your podcast by providing your RSS feed URL and show details.
- Step Four: Await approval!
Per their website, though, you can also submit via one of their partner podcast hosting platform options:
7. A few options to expand your reach
Remember that being everywhere at once isn’t necessary or even advised when starting with podcasting. Focus more initially on producing quality content.
Then, as your show grows and you become more comfortable with the process, gradually expand into other directories. Consider other top podcast directories like Pandora, Amazon Music, Deezer, Podchaser, or Player FM.
Don’t Forget To Promote Your Podcast
Publishing your podcast isn’t the end of the journey—it’s just the start. But don’t worry. Promoting your coaching podcast doesn’t need to be complicated.
1. Your own platform first
Start with what you already have: your own coaching website.
The third most popular way for listeners to tune in to podcasts is via a web browser. So this isn’t a tactic to sleep on!
Make sure that every client, prospect, and social media follower knows about your show. Your existing audience is the key to launch success.
Add a dedicated page or include its details in relevant sections of your site and your social media bios.
2. Leverage social media
Social media is more than selfies and memes; it’s a goldmine for content promotion.
Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter can be utilized to inform people about fresh episodes and communicate with audience members.
3. Use email marketing
Email might seem old school, but it can do wonders when used correctly.
With email marketing tools such as MailerLite or ConvertKit, keep subscribers updated about new releases and ask them to share these updates within their networks, too.
Make sure to share the biggest reason why people should listen to your new episode. Here’s an example from Peaceful Profits:
3. Make sharing simple for podcast listeners
Listeners love sharing content they find valuable. Why not make this process easier?
Give easy options to share episodes directly from the podcast app or player. If you’ve already listed your podcast in a directory, this step will be done for you!
4. Create buzz through guest appearances
This is a proven strategy in the podcast world. Inviting guests means tapping into their audience base, too.
Giving teasers before the guest episode goes live can create a buzz and drive more listeners to your show.
5. Collaborate with other podcasters
A sense of community is strong in the podcast world.
Collaborating with other podcasters gives you access to their audience and brings fresh perspectives for your listeners.
If You’re Struggling to Gain Podcast Listeners, Your Presence on Podcast Directories Matters
As coaches and podcast creators, it’s easy to overanalyze every little thing when trying to go.
The truth is, there is no such thing as the best podcast directories to be in. There are the most important podcast directories – but it’s more about the quantity of platforms you’re on to grow your podcast network.
Ensure you’re on in as many directories as possible, especially Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Expand where it feels good for you or your ideal new listeners hang out.
The more podcast directories your show is on, the more likely it is to reach those who need it most. And those listeners need your coaching services, too.
Your voice deserves to be heard; these podcast directories will help amplify it.If you need time to focus on your coaching podcast, why not try Paperbell? This platform makes it easier than ever to sell your coaching online.Try it for yourself by claiming your free account!
