Publishing to Podcast Directories
Selfhost Podcasting creates the RSS feed. Podcast directories require you to submit that feed through their own publisher portals.
Submission checklist
Before submitting:
- Site is using HTTPS.
- Feed URL opens publicly.
- Podcast name, description, artwork, website, language, category, and author are complete.
- Artwork is square and at least 1400 x 1400 pixels.
- At least one episode is published.
- Each published episode has a direct media enclosure URL.
- Feed has no PHP warnings or HTML before XML.
- Preview page looks correct.
- Media URLs are reachable without a logged-in browser session, unless using a private workflow.
Common directories
- Apple Podcasts Connect.
- Spotify for Podcasters.
- YouTube Music / YouTube Studio podcast tools.
- Amazon Music for Podcasters.
- Podcast Index.
- Pocket Casts.
- Overcast and other RSS-based apps.
Each service has its own login, verification, review, and refresh process.
Keep the feed stable
Avoid changing the podcast slug after directories accept the feed. If you must move to a new feed URL, use iTunes New Feed URL and keep the old feed available long enough for directories and subscribers to update.
Directory refresh delays
Directory caches can take hours or days to refresh. If Selfhost shows the correct XML but a directory does not, check:
- Directory cache timing.
- Artwork cache.
- Future publish dates.
- Media URL reachability.
- Required fields.
- Category or explicit-content policy.
Public and private feeds
Public directories expect public feeds. Pro private feeds are for authorized listeners and should not normally be submitted to public directories.