Table of Contents
Introduction
Podcasts have exploded in popularity over the last few years. These downloadable audio shows cover every topic imaginable, from true crime to cooking, sports to spirituality. With more great content being created every day, there’s never been a better time to get into podcast listening.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to help podcasting newcomers get started. Follow these steps and you’ll be subscribed, downloading, and enjoying your favorite shows in no time!
Find a Podcasting App
To listen to podcasts, you first need to download a podcasting app. Here are some top options:
For iPhones
- Apple Podcasts – Comes pre-installed, easy to use
- Spotify – Listen to podcasts and music in one place
For Androids
- Google Podcasts – Pre-installed on many Android phones
- Spotify – Cross-platform app, use on all devices
- Pocket Casts – Full-featured podcast listening app
These apps allow you to browse, subscribe, manage and listen to all your favorite podcast shows. Most are free to use with ads, or offer cheap paid ad-free versions.
Search for Shows
Once you’ve downloaded a podcast app, it’s time to find some shows to subscribe to. Here are some ways to search:
- Browse featured sections and charts in your app
- Search by keyword for your interests
- Ask friends and family for recommendations
- Google “Best podcasts about [your topic]”
Take your time and sample episodes from a few different shows in topics you think you’ll enjoy.
Subscribe and Listen
When you find a podcast you like, subscribe by clicking the subscribe button within the app. This adds it to your library so you can listen to all future episodes.
Here are some podcast listening tips:
- Download episodes to your device to listen offline
- Listen at faster speeds (1.5x – 2x) to hear more content
- Play episodes on connected speakers or Bluetooth headphones
- Carry your device everywhere and listen during commutes, chores, workouts, etc.
- Pick a few “binge-worthy” storytelling shows for long listening sessions
Use Multiple Apps
While most podcast apps have similar features, some exclusive shows are only on certain platforms. Having multiple apps ensures you don’t miss out on anything:
- Apple Podcasts – Exclusive to Apple devices
- Spotify – Spotify exclusives including The Joe Rogan Experience
- YouTube – Video podcasts and creator content
Also try apps like Overcast, Castbox, Podbean, and more for extra features.
Listen on Smart Speakers
In addition to phones and tablets, today’s smart speakers make listening to podcasts hands-free:
- Amazon Echo – “Alexa, play my podcasts”
- Google Home – “Hey Google, play [podcast name]”
- Apple HomePod – Use Apple Podcasts app and your iPhone to control playback
Smart speakers are perfect for listening while cooking, cleaning, or getting ready in the morning.
Finding Great Podcasts
With over a million shows to choose from, finding quality podcasts can be overwhelming. Here are helpful resources:
- Podchaser – View podcast reviews and ratings
- Apple Podcasts Charts – Top shows across all categories
- Spotify – Curated top podcast lists by topic
- Reddit – Join podcast subreddit discussions
- Awards lists – Top shows from Podcast Awards, Webbys, etc.
Look at “Best of” lists that match your interests. Follow podcast critics and reviewers. Check ratings and reviews before you subscribe.
Listen, Learn, Grow!
The world of podcasting has something for everyone. As you listen to more shows, you’ll discover new topics and perspectives. Let podcasts educate, inspire, entertain and accompany you wherever you go!
Summary
- Download a podcast app like Apple Podcasts or Spotify
- Browse, search and sample shows to subscribe to
- Listen during your commute, workouts and chores
- Try multiple apps to access more exclusive content
- Play podcasts hands-free on smart speakers
- Use charts, reviews and recommendations to find the best shows
- Let podcasts become your go-to audio entertainment and learning resource
So what are you waiting for? With these tips, you’re ready to start listening to amazing podcast shows right now!
