So, you’re wondering how much Apple charges to list your podcast on their platform? Well, we've got some fantastic news for you. Drumroll, please... It's free!
Apple doesn't charge a single penny to list your podcast on their platform.
That's right — you can showcase your podcast to millions of potential listeners on one of the most popular podcast directories without shelling out a dime.
It's like getting prime advertising space on the busiest street in town, absolutely free. It's one of the many reasons why Apple Podcasts is a preferred choice for podcasters.
Having said that, you’ll need a separate podcast hosting platform, and they might not be free. Their costs can vary, depending on the services they offer.
So, while you don't have to budget for Apple, make sure you consider the costs of your chosen podcast host.
But hey, knowing you can reach millions of Apple Podcasts users without extra charges is a great start, isn't it?
Disclosure: Although I receive affiliate compensation at no additional cost to you to support this site that compensation in no way influences my recommendations, which are strictly informed by my 10+ years of online business experience consulting for clients large and small. My aim is to always recommend tools that offer the best return for your investment (for more details, read my Affiliate Disclosure).
Steps to Host Your Podcast on Apple
So, you've got a podcast in the works, and you're keen to share it with the world via Apple Podcasts. Great! But how do you make that happen?
Let's break it down, step by step:
1. Craft Your Podcast:
Before you do anything else, you've got to have a podcast, right? This step is all about getting your show ready for the spotlight. It involves brainstorming content ideas, scripting, recording, and editing your episodes. Make sure you've got at least one episode polished and ready to go.
Remember, you'll also need an appealing title for your podcast, a captivating description, and don't forget about the artwork. Your podcast cover art is the first thing potential listeners will see, so it should be engaging and representative of your show's essence.
2. Pick a Podcast Host:
Next, you need to find a home for your podcast, a place to store and distribute your episodes. That's where your podcast host comes in.
A podcast host manages your audio files and makes sure they're accessible to your listeners via different podcast directories, including Apple Podcasts.
There are numerous podcast hosting platforms out there, each with different features, pricing structures, and levels of service. Some popular options include Libsyn, Buzzsprout, and Podbean.
When choosing, consider factors like storage space, bandwidth, pricing, analytics, and ease of use. Remember, the host you choose should fit your needs and budget.
3. Upload Your Podcast to Your Host:
Once you've settled on a host, it's time to upload your podcast. This process will vary depending on the host, but generally, you'll need to create an account, set up a new show, and upload your first episode. You'll also fill in your podcast's title, description, and upload your cover art.
Your host will generate an RSS feed for your podcast. This feed is like a live link to your show. Every time you upload a new episode to your host, the RSS feed updates automatically, ensuring directories like Apple Podcasts always have your latest content.
4. Submit Your Podcast's RSS Feed to Apple Podcasts:
Now, you're ready to submit your podcast to Apple Podcasts. To do this, you'll need an Apple ID. Once you're logged in to Apple's Podcast Connect (a part of iTunes Connect), you can submit your podcast's RSS feed.
Just paste your RSS feed URL into the provided field and click "Validate." If everything checks out, click "Submit."
5. Wait for Approval from Apple:
Once you hit that submit button, a little patience is required. Apple reviews every podcast submission to ensure it meets their guidelines.
This review process usually takes between a few days to a week depending on how busy they are and can be delayed by holidays and weekends.
But don't worry, you'll receive an email from Apple once your podcast is approved and live on Apple Podcasts.
6. Celebrate:
Congrats! You've made it. Your podcast is now on Apple Podcasts, accessible to millions of potential listeners worldwide. Take a moment to celebrate this massive achievement. Pat yourself on the back and do a little happy dance. You've earned it!
But remember, this is just the beginning. Now it's time to create more fantastic content, promote your show, engage with your audience, and grow your podcast. It's an exciting journey ahead, and now that your podcast is on Apple Podcasts, the sky's the limit.
Tips to Improve Your Podcast Performance on Apple
Getting your podcast listed on Apple Podcasts is an achievement in itself, but it's just the first step. You'll want to make the most of this exposure, right? Here are some proven strategies to boost your podcast's performance and visibility on Apple Podcasts:
1. Rally for Ratings and Reviews:
There's power in ratings and reviews. They're the social proof that can entice potential listeners to hit that play button. Ratings also play a crucial role in Apple's algorithm - podcasts with more and higher ratings are more likely to appear in search results and recommendations.
So, how do you get these valuable ratings and reviews? Ask for them! At the end of each episode, kindly ask your listeners to leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. You could even read out some of your favorite reviews in your episodes as a way of showing appreciation.
2. Consistency is Key:
Being consistent with your episode release schedule can significantly help engage your audience. Imagine your favorite TV show releasing episodes sporadically — you’d probably lose interest over time.
The same goes for your podcast. If your listeners know they can expect a new episode every Tuesday, for instance, they'll likely make a habit of tuning in.
Consistency also signals to Apple that your podcast is active, which can positively impact your visibility on the platform. So, whether it's weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly, pick a schedule that works for you and stick to it.
3. Promote Your Apple Podcasts Listing:
Your podcast is now on one of the biggest platforms globally, and it's time to shout it from the rooftops. Share your Apple Podcasts link on your website, social media channels, and in your email newsletters.
When posting on social media, consider creating attractive visuals or short audio snippets from your episodes to grab attention. Remember, the easier you make it for people to find and listen to your podcast, the more likely they are to become regular listeners.
4. Engage with Your Audience:
Remember, podcasting is not a one-way street. Engage with your listeners. You could start a conversation on social media, respond to comments, or even host Q&A sessions.
This engagement not only strengthens your relationship with your audience but also boosts your podcast’s visibility. When listeners feel valued and engaged, they're more likely to recommend your show to others, and word of mouth can be a powerful tool.
5. Leverage SEO:
Like any other online platform, the right keywords can make a significant difference in your podcast's visibility on Apple Podcasts.
Include relevant keywords in your podcast's title, description, and episode titles. However, avoid 'keyword stuffing' as this can look spammy and might deter potential listeners.
6. Quality over Quantity:
While it's essential to be consistent, never compromise on quality. Ensure every episode provides value to your listeners.
High-quality, engaging content is more likely to keep listeners coming back and attract new ones. Plus, great content increases the chances of listeners leaving positive ratings and reviews.
Remember, podcasting is a marathon, not a sprint. Growing your audience and improving your podcast's performance on Apple Podcasts takes time, effort, and persistence. But with these strategies, you'll be well on your way to creating a successful podcast on Apple Podcasts.
Wrapping Things Up
Embarking on your podcasting journey is undoubtedly an exhilarating experience. The thrill of creating content, sharing stories, sparking conversations, and connecting with listeners around the world is beyond comparison.
Yet, alongside all the creativity and connection, there's also a need to navigate the practical aspects of podcasting.
While Apple doesn't charge for hosting, you do need a separate podcast hosting platform where your audio files will live.
This podcast host will provide you with an RSS feed that you will then submit to Apple Podcasts. So, while you're planning your budget, remember to account for the cost of your podcast host, if there is any.
With your podcast on Apple Podcasts, you'll be part of a dynamic and ever-growing podcasting landscape. It's a platform where listeners come to learn, laugh, get inspired, or simply unwind. As a podcaster, it's a space for you to grow, engage, and connect.
