Publishing your podcast to the Apple iTunes store is an important step to increase your listenership and reach a wider audience. As the largest podcast directory, Apple Podcasts accounts for over 43% of all podcast downloads. This guide will walk you through the entire process of submitting your podcast to Apple in 9 easy steps.
Table of Contents
Step 1: Create an Apple ID
You need an Apple ID to access Apple Podcasts Connect where you will submit your podcast. If you don’t already have one, go to appleid.apple.com to create a free Apple ID. Enable two-factor authentication for additional security.
Step 2: Join Apple Podcasts Connect
Go to podcasters.apple.com and click on “Sign In” to access Apple Podcasts Connect with your Apple ID credentials. This is the portal where you will manage your podcast listings on Apple Podcasts.
As a first-time user, you will need to join the platform. Apple Podcasts Connect allows both individual podcasters and companies to submit shows. Choose the appropriate account type for your podcast.
Step 3: Set Up Your Podcast Hosting
Before you can submit your show to Apple, you need podcast hosting to store your audio files and generate an RSS feed. Some top podcast hosts include:
- Buzzsprout: Easy to use, great for beginners
- Libsyn: Robust features for serious podcasters
- Podbean: Unlimited storage and bandwidth
When setting up hosting, be sure to fully configure your podcast details – cover art, description, categories, etc. Apple will pull this metadata from your RSS feed.
Step 4: Record Your First Episode
Apple Podcasts requires at least one full episode for review before accepting your podcast. This can be a trailer episode or the first episode of your show.
Record and edit your first episode, add show notes, and publish it on your hosting platform. This will automatically update your RSS feed with the new episode details.
Step 5: Copy Your RSS Feed URL
After publishing your first episode, locate and copy your podcast RSS feed URL from your hosting dashboard. This is the unique link Apple will use to access your show’s information and files.
Step 6: Submit Your Podcast
In Apple Podcasts Connect, click the “+” button and select “New Show.” Choose the option to “Add show with RSS feed” and paste in your feed URL.
Double check that all your podcast details imported correctly. Fill in any additional required information like primary category and language.
Step 7: Select Availability
On the left sidebar, choose “Availability” and select the regions/countries where you want your podcast to appear. Toggle the switch for public distribution via Apple Podcasts Catalog API.
Step 8: Provide Show & Episode Details
Thoroughly fill out additional details in the Metadata and Audio sections. This includes content rights, contact information, season/episode numbers, release dates, and more. Providing complete and accurate data is crucial for a smooth review process.
Step 9: Submit for Review
Carefully review all your inputs one last time. When ready, click the “Submit for Review” button. Apple will then examine your feed for technical issues and content guidelines adherence.
And that’s it! After approval, you’ll get an email confirmation that your podcast is live on Apple Podcasts. You can now reach millions of potential new listeners and watch your downloads grow!
Additional Tips:
- Check Apple’s technical validation guide to avoid common RSS mistakes
- Resubmit for another review if your show gets rejected
- New episodes will automatically update once initially approved
- Use Apple Podcasts Connect to monitor downloads and listener analytics
I have over 5 years of experience creating and publishing podcasts. Let me know if you have any other questions!
