Podcasting Basics: Directories, Players, Feeds and Hosting Platforms

In this blog post, we'll delve into the essential ingredients for podcasting. Whether you're a novice or an experienced podcaster, this post will help you understand the basics and set you on the path to success.

We also covered these topics in an episode of our “About Podcast” podcast.

What is a Podcast?

A podcast, in our view, is primarily an audio experience where someone tells a story, teaches something, or engages in conversations or interviews. While some may include video, the essence of a podcast lies in the audio format. This audio-only focus taps into something primal in us, harkening back to our history of storytelling. Listening to someone’s voice can be a powerful, immersive experience, making you feel connected to the storyteller.

(Nick Dunkerley from Hindenburg describes this beautifully in an episode of our “About Podcast” podcast)

Why Listen to Podcasts?

People tune into podcasts for various reasons:

  1. Learning: Podcasts provide a wealth of information on diverse topics like health, economics, politics, and technology.

  2. Inspiration: Hearing from passionate individuals can spark new ideas and motivate you.

  3. Entertainment: Sometimes, just listening to an interesting conversation can be incredibly entertaining.

Podcasts are versatile; you can listen while doing other activities, such as driving, shopping, or cleaning. This flexibility allows you to integrate learning and entertainment seamlessly into your daily routine.

The Anatomy of a Podcast

Audio

While the core of a podcast is audio, video can enhance the experience by providing context, such as facial expressions and reactions. However, the audio remains the primary medium, allowing you to engage without needing to watch a screen. The core of a podcast is the audio that you record.

RSS Feeds

A crucial component of podcasting is the RSS feed. This XML document contains links to your podcast episodes and metadata like titles, descriptions, and artwork. The RSS feed is what allows your podcast to be distributed and accessed by various platforms and apps.

Podcast Directories

Podcast directories are databases that collect and organize RSS feeds from various podcasts, making it easy for player apps to find and stream episodes. Here are some key directories:

  • Podcast Index: An open-source directory that supports advanced features like chapters and transcripts. It is unique because anyone can download and use the Podcast Index database for their own applications.

  • Apple Podcasts: One of the largest directories, providing a comprehensive collection of podcasts.

  • Spotify: Acts as a podcast directory and as a podcast player.

  • Amazon Music: A growing platform for podcasts alongside its music service. 

Podcast Distribution

To reach your audience, you need to distribute your podcast to directories. Here’s how it works:

  1. Create an RSS Feed: While you can create an RSS feed manually, most podcasters use hosting platforms like Podhome.fm, to automate the process.

  2. Submit to Directories: Submit your RSS feed to podcast directories such as Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and Amazon Music. Your hosting platform will make this easy and automatic for you

  3. Player Apps: Apps like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and modern apps like Fountain.fm and Podverse read from these directories to make your podcast available to listeners.

Hosting Platforms

A hosting platform simplifies the process of creating and managing your RSS feed. When you upload your episode to a platform like Podhome.fm, it generates the RSS feed and distributes it to your chosen directories. This ensures that updates to your podcast, such as new episodes or changes in descriptions, are automatically propagated across all platforms.

Modern Podcast Features

Modern podcast apps and directories offer advanced features to enhance the listener experience:

  • Chapters: Allow listeners to skip to specific parts of an episode.

  • Transcripts: Provide written versions of the audio for accessibility.

  • Searchable Metadata: Makes it easier for listeners to find specific content within episodes.

  • Monetary Boosts: Enable listeners to support creators directly.

Getting Started

To start podcasting, you'll need:

  1. Recording Equipment: A good microphone and quiet recording environment.

  2. Editing Software: Tools to polish your audio.

  3. Hosting Platform: To manage your RSS feed and distribution.

Once you’ve recorded and edited your episode, upload it to your hosting platform, which generates your RSS feed, and submits it to directories. From there, podcast apps will make your content available to listeners worldwide.

Conclusion

Podcasting is a powerful medium that combines the magic of storytelling with the convenience of modern technology. By understanding the basics and leveraging the right tools, you can create compelling content that reaches a wide audience.

Explore how Podhome.fm can transform your podcasting experience by trying it yourself for free, for 30 days, and see the difference for yourself.


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