What is Hosting Platform?
A hosting platform is a service that stores your podcast's audio files and generates the RSS feed necessary to distribute the show to apps like Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
Why Hosting Platform Matters for Podcasters
A common misconception is that you upload your podcast directly to Apple or Spotify. You don't. You upload it to a Hosting Platform (like Libsyn, Buzzsprout, Transistor, or Captivate). The host stores the heavy audio files on their servers and creates an RSS feed—a URL that lists your episodes. You then submit this RSS feed to the directories. When a listener plays an episode, it streams from the hosting platform. Hosts also provide analytics, embed players, and monetization tools. Choosing a reliable host is crucial because if their servers go down, your podcast stops working everywhere.
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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.
Waveform
A waveform is a visual representation of audio that shows the amplitude (loudness) of sound over time. In podcasting, waveforms are used in audiograms and editing software to visualize audio.
Show Notes
Show notes are written summaries or bullet points that accompany each podcast episode, typically including key topics, guest information, timestamps, and links to resources mentioned in the episode.
RSS Feed
An RSS feed is a standardized XML file that contains information about your podcast episodes, including titles, descriptions, audio file URLs, and publication dates. It's how podcast directories and apps discover and update your show.