Publishing a podcast has become an increasingly popular way for individuals and businesses to share their expertise, creativity, and stories with a global audience. Spotify, one of the largest music streaming platforms in the world, has expanded its services to include podcasts, making it an ideal platform for podcasters to reach a wider audience. In this blog post, we will explore the process of publishing a podcast to Spotify and provide step-by-step instructions to help you get started.
Video Tutorial:
What’s Needed
Before you begin the process of publishing your podcast to Spotify, there are a few things you will need. Here is a list of the essentials:
1. A completed and edited podcast episode in a supported audio format (MP3 or WAV).
2. A cover image for your podcast that meets Spotify’s specifications (recommended size: 1400 x 1400 pixels).
3. A podcast hosting platform where you can upload your episodes and generate an RSS feed.
4. An active Spotify account.
What Requires Your Focus?
Publishing a podcast to Spotify requires attention to detail and following the necessary steps in the correct order. Some key areas that require your focus include:
1. Preparing and editing your podcast episode to ensure high-quality audio.
2. Creating an eye-catching cover image that represents your podcast.
3. Uploading your podcast episodes to a hosting platform that generates an RSS feed.
4. Verifying your eligibility and submitting your podcast to Spotify.
5. Monitoring and promoting your podcast on Spotify to grow your audience.
Method 1. Via Spotify for Podcasters
Publishing a podcast to Spotify can be done directly through the Spotify for Podcasters platform. Here’s how you can do it:
1. Sign in to Spotify for Podcasters using your Spotify account credentials.
2. Click on the "Get Started" button on the homepage.
3. If you are a new podcast, click on "Add Your Podcast" and provide the necessary details (podcast name, language, category, etc.).
4. If your podcast is already active on another hosting platform, click on "Claim Your Podcast" and follow the instructions to verify your ownership.
5. Once your podcast is added or claimed, you can access your podcast dashboard and manage your episodes, artwork, and settings.
6. Make sure to upload your podcast episodes and cover image in accordance with Spotify’s guidelines.
7. Review the details of your podcast, including the episode order, descriptions, and tags.
8. Click on the "Submit" button to send your podcast for review by Spotify’s team.
9. It may take a few days for Spotify to review and approve your podcast. Once approved, your podcast will be available on Spotify.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. Easy and straightforward process to publish podcasts directly on Spotify. | 1. Limited customization options for your podcast’s website or RSS feed. |
| 2. Access to Spotify’s vast user base and potential for increased exposure. | 2. The review process may take several days, resulting in a delay in podcast availability. |
| 3. Convenient dashboard to manage episodes, artwork, and settings for your podcast. | 3. Restrictions on explicit content and some types of content may not be approved. |
Method 2. Via a Podcast Hosting Platform
Another way to publish your podcast to Spotify is through a podcast hosting platform that offers Spotify integration. Here’s how you can do it:
1. Choose a podcast hosting platform that supports Spotify integration (e.g., Libsyn, Podbean, Buzzsprout, etc.).
2. Sign up for an account on the chosen hosting platform and provide the necessary details.
3. Upload your podcast episodes to the hosting platform, ensuring they are in the correct format.
4. Customize your podcast settings, including the podcast title, description, cover image, and episode details.
5. Generate an RSS feed for your podcast on the hosting platform.
6. Navigate to the Spotify for Podcasters platform and sign in using your Spotify account credentials.
7. Click on "Add Your Podcast" and enter the RSS feed URL generated by your hosting platform.
8. Follow the instructions provided to verify your ownership of the podcast.
9. Once verified, your podcast will be reviewed by Spotify’s team, and upon approval, it will be available on Spotify.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. Flexibility to choose from a variety of podcast hosting platforms that suit your needs. | 1. Requires an additional step of generating an RSS feed and verifying ownership. |
| 2. Access to additional features and analytics offered by the hosting platform. | 2. The review process may take several days, resulting in a delay in podcast availability. |
| 3. Potential for podcast monetization and integration with other platforms. | 3. Restrictions on explicit content and some types of content may not be approved. |
Method 3. Via an Aggregator
If you prefer a more streamlined approach, you can use a podcast aggregator to publish your podcast to multiple platforms, including Spotify. Here’s how you can do it:
1. Choose a podcast aggregator that offers Spotify distribution services (e.g., Anchor, Podchaser, RedCircle, etc.).
2. Sign up for an account on the chosen aggregator platform and provide the necessary details.
3. Upload your podcast episodes to the aggregator, ensuring they are in the correct format.
4. Customize your podcast settings, including the podcast title, description, cover image, and episode details.
5. Depending on the aggregator platform, you may need to submit your podcast for review and approval.
6. Once approved, your podcast will be distributed to various platforms, including Spotify.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. Simplified process of podcast distribution to multiple platforms. | 1. Limited control over the distribution process and specific platform settings. |
| 2. Access to additional features and analytics offered by the aggregator platform. | 2. May incur additional costs depending on the aggregator’s pricing structure. |
| 3. Potential for monetization and integration with other platforms. | 3. Restrictions on explicit content and some types of content may not be approved. |
Method 4. Using a Third-Party Service
Alternatively, you can use a third-party service to assist you in publishing your podcast to Spotify. Here’s how you can do it:
1. Choose a reputable third-party podcast distribution service that offers Spotify integration (e.g., SubmitHub, Rephonic, etc.).
2. Sign up for an account on the chosen service and provide the necessary details.
3. Follow the instructions provided by the service to upload your podcast episodes, cover image, and other details.
4. Submit your podcast for review and approval.
5. Once approved, your podcast will be distributed to various platforms, including Spotify.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. Simplified process of podcast distribution, with guidance and assistance from the service. | 1. May incur additional costs depending on the service’s pricing structure. |
| 2. Access to additional features and services offered by the third-party service. | 2. Limited control and customization options compared to self-publishing methods. |
| 3. Potential for professional guidance on podcast promotion and strategy. | 3. Restrictions on explicit content and some types of content may not be approved. |
Why Can’t I Publish My Podcast to Spotify?
While the process of publishing a podcast to Spotify is relatively straightforward, you may encounter a few challenges along the way. Here are a few reasons why you might face difficulties:
1. Incomplete or Incorrect Submission: If you fail to provide all the necessary details and meet Spotify’s requirements for podcast submission, your podcast may not be approved. Ensure that your podcast episodes, cover image, and metadata are complete and accurate.
2. Content Violations: Spotify has guidelines and restrictions on explicit content, hate speech, copyright infringement, and other types of prohibited content. Make sure your podcast adheres to Spotify’s content policies to avoid rejection.
3. Technical Issues: Connectivity issues, incompatible file formats, or other technical glitches may hinder the successful upload and distribution of your podcast. Double-check the specifications and requirements for podcast submission to ensure compatibility.
If you encounter any of these issues, here are a few potential fixes:
1. Review Spotify’s guidelines and requirements for podcast submission and make the necessary adjustments to your podcast episodes, cover image, and metadata.
2. Edit your podcast content to ensure compliance with Spotify’s content policies. Remove any explicit language or content that may violate the platform’s guidelines.
3. Check your internet connection and ensure that your podcast episodes are in the correct format (MP3 or WAV) and meet Spotify’s file size limitations.
Implications and Recommendations
Publishing your podcast to Spotify opens up a world of opportunities to grow your audience and gain recognition. Here are a few implications and recommendations to consider:
1. Promote Your Podcast: Once your podcast is available on Spotify, promote it through social media, your website, and other marketing channels to attract listeners and grow your audience.
2. Explore Spotify’s Features: Take advantage of Spotify’s features, such as creating playlists, sharing episodes on social media, and engaging with your listeners through comments and feedback.
3. Collaborate with Other Podcasts: Reach out to other podcasters on Spotify and explore opportunities for collaboration, cross-promotion, and guest appearances. This can help you tap into a wider audience base and increase your podcast’s visibility.
4. Track and Analyze Your Performance: Use Spotify’s analytics tools or third-party services to track your podcast’s performance, including the number of plays, subscribers, and audience demographics. This data can help you refine your content and target your marketing efforts.
5. Consider Monetization: Once you have established a loyal following on Spotify, explore monetization options such as sponsorships, advertising, or Patreon memberships to generate revenue from your podcast.
5 FAQs about Publishing a Podcast to Spotify
Q1: Can I upload multiple podcasts to Spotify?
A: Yes, you can upload multiple podcasts to Spotify. Each podcast will need to go through the submission and review process separately.
Q2: How long does it take for Spotify to approve my podcast?
A: The review process for podcast submission on Spotify typically takes a few days. However, during busy periods, it may take longer. Be patient and keep an eye on your podcast dashboard for updates.
Q3: Can I edit my podcast details after it is published on Spotify?
A: Yes, you can edit your podcast details, including the title, description, artwork, and episode order, even after it is published on Spotify. Simply make the necessary changes in your podcast hosting platform or aggregator, and the changes will reflect on Spotify.
Q4: How can I promote my podcast on Spotify?
A: Promote your podcast on Spotify by sharing it on social media, embedding Spotify players on your website or blog, including it in your email newsletters, and collaborating with other podcasters for cross-promotion.
Q5: Can I monetize my podcast on Spotify?
A: Yes, you can monetize your podcast on Spotify through various methods such as sponsorships, advertising, and listener donations. Explore Spotify’s podcast monetization features and consider joining podcast advertising networks to maximize your revenue potential.
Final Words
Publishing your podcast to Spotify is an excellent way to reach a global audience and grow your podcast’s popularity. By following the methods described in this blog post, you can successfully publish your podcast to Spotify and leverage the platform’s features and vast user base. Remember to promote your podcast, analyze its performance, and consider monetization options to make the most of your podcasting journey on Spotify. Happy podcasting!