What is Aggregator?
An aggregator is an app or platform (like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Overcast) that collects RSS feeds from various hosting sites and plays them for listeners.
Why Aggregator Matters for Podcasters
In the podcasting ecosystem, an aggregator (often called a 'podcatcher' or 'podcast app') acts as the bridge between the creator and the listener. Unlike YouTube, where the video lives on the platform, podcast aggregators usually do not host the actual audio files. Instead, they read the RSS feed provided by the podcast host. When a podcaster publishes a new episode, the RSS feed updates, and the aggregator detects this change, displaying the new episode to subscribers and allowing them to stream or download the audio file from the host's server. Major aggregators include Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pocket Casts, and Google Podcasts (now YouTube Music). Understanding how aggregators parse metadata is crucial for SEO, as this determines how show notes, artwork, and titles appear on the listener's device.
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Explore Launch podcast tools →Related Terms
Analytics
Podcast analytics are data points that track the performance of a show, including downloads, unique listeners, geographic location, and listener retention rates.
Artwork (Cover Art)
Podcast artwork is the square image that represents a show in directories. It is the first thing a potential listener sees and is critical for branding and click-through rates.
Attribution
Attribution is the process of tracking which marketing channel or specific ad caused a listener to download an episode or purchase a product.
Audiogram
An audiogram is a short video clip that combines audio from your podcast with a visual waveform and your cover art, creating shareable social media content that promotes your show.