How Podbean Simplifies Podcast Publishing: A Beginner's Guide to Distributing Your Show to Multiple Platforms
- The Podcast Editor
- Jan 28
- 3 min read
Podbean is a podcast hosting platform that simplifies publishing your podcast to multiple directories like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and more. Here’s how it works and what you need to know as a beginner:
How Podbean Works for Publishing
Upload Your Podcast to Podbean: You create an account on Podbean and upload your episodes there. Podbean acts as your podcast’s central hosting platform and generates an RSS feed for your show.
Distribute to Directories: Once your podcast is hosted, Podbean allows you to distribute it to various podcast platforms. These platforms (Apple Podcasts, Spotify, etc.) use your RSS feed to fetch and update your episodes automatically.
Do You Need Personal Accounts for Each Platform?
Yes, for most major directories, you need to create accounts, but it's typically a one-time setup. Here’s a breakdown:
Apple Podcasts:
You need an Apple ID and an account on Apple Podcasts Connect.
Podbean provides the RSS feed you’ll submit to Apple Podcasts. Once approved, Apple will fetch your episodes automatically.
Spotify:
You’ll need to submit your podcast to Spotify.
Podbean offers a direct integration with Spotify, so you can connect your show easily through Podbean’s dashboard.
Google Podcasts:
Google automatically indexes podcasts via RSS feeds, but you may want to submit your show manually to Google Podcasts Manager for analytics and better control.
Other Platforms:
Podbean supports distribution to smaller platforms like Stitcher, iHeartRadio, and Amazon Music. Each might require a submission process via their portals. Podbean has guides to walk you through this.
Podbean Features That Help
One-Click Distribution: Once your accounts are set up on platforms, Podbean allows you to distribute your show easily.
Analytics: Tracks downloads and listens across all platforms in one place.
Monetization: Includes options like premium subscriptions and ads.
Tips and Resources
Read Podbean’s Help Articles: Check their Support Page for detailed guides.
Follow Platform Requirements: Each directory has specific guidelines (e.g., Apple Podcasts’ artwork size, Spotify’s metadata rules).
Be Patient: Some platforms may take a few days to approve your podcast.
Podbean does make the process easier, but it depends on the platform:
Platforms Podbean Submits For You
Podbean can directly distribute your podcast to some platforms without requiring you to create individual accounts. For example:
Spotify: You can connect your podcast to Spotify directly through Podbean without needing a Spotify account.
Amazon Music and iHeartRadio: Podbean submits these for you if you opt in through their dashboard.
Platforms Where You Still Need an Account
For some major directories, you do need to create an account and manually submit your RSS feed. These platforms include:
Apple Podcasts: Requires an Apple ID and access to Apple Podcasts Connect to submit your show.
Stitcher: Requires its own account for submission.
TuneIn (for Alexa): Requires a separate account and manual submission.
Why Some Platforms Require Personal Accounts
Having your own account gives you full control over your podcast, including:
Viewing platform-specific analytics.
Updating your show info directly (e.g., description or cover art).
Handling troubleshooting issues if something goes wrong.
The Bottom Line
Podbean can automate submission to many platforms, saving time.
For key platforms like Apple Podcasts, you’ll still need to set up accounts and submit your RSS feed.
Disclaimer: This guide contains affiliate links. If you sign up for Podbean using my link, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Your support helps me continue creating helpful content like this!
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