Podcast Distribution

Once your podcast feed is configured (see Podcast Setup), this guide covers submitting to directories and promoting your podcast.

Submitting to Podcast Directories

Apple Podcasts

1. Create an Apple ID if you don’t have one
2. Visit Podcast Connect
3. Sign in with your Apple ID
4. Click “+” to add a new podcast
5. Enter your feed URL
6. Verify and submit
7. Approval typically takes 1-5 business days

Spotify

1. Visit Spotify for Podcasters
2. Create an account or sign in
3. Click “Add podcast”
4. Provide your feed URL
5. Verify ownership
6. Submit for review
7. Approval typically takes 1-3 business days

Amazon Music / Audible

1. Visit Amazon Music Podcasters
2. Create an account or sign in
3. Submit your feed URL
4. Complete the submission form
5. Review and submit

Promoting Your Podcast

Website Integration

Add podcast subscribe links to your website:

1. Create a dedicated podcast page at yourchurch.com/podcast
2. Include direct links to your podcast on each platform
3. Add these links to sermon pages and your site footer

Universal Subscribe Links

Create easy-to-remember links for verbal announcements:

1. Use a service like Podfollow to create a universal subscribe link
2. Promote this link in church announcements, bulletins, and social media

Best Practices for Church Podcasts

Optimal Episode Titles

Create clear, searchable titles:

• Include sermon title
• Consider adding series name for context
• Keep under 60 characters for best display
• Be consistent in formatting

Example: “Finding Peace in Chaos – Hope Remains Series”

Audio Quality Guidelines

For the best listener experience:

• Record at 44.1 kHz, 16-bit minimum
• Export MP3 files at 128kbps mono or 192kbps stereo
• Normalize audio to -16 LUFS for consistent volume
• Edit out long silences and technical issues
• Consider adding a brief intro/outro

Episode Descriptions

Create engaging episode descriptions:

• First 1-2 sentences are most important (visible in apps)
• Include key topics and scripture references
• Add timestamps for major points
• Include links to additional resources
• Maintain consistent formatting

Publishing Schedule

Establish a consistent publishing routine:

• Set a regular release schedule (same day/time each week)
• Batch process sermons for timely publishing
• Consider scheduling releases for optimal timing
• Alert subscribers when schedule changes