What is Podcast Directory?

Podcast directories are platforms where listeners discover and access podcasts. Think of them as the app stores or libraries of the podcasting world. The most important directories are Apple Podcasts (the largest, with the most listeners), Spotify (growing rapidly), Google Podcasts, and Stitcher. When you publish a podcast, you submit your RSS feed URL to these directories, and they make your show available to their users. Each directory has its own submission process, review guidelines, and features. Apple Podcasts, for example, requires manual review and can take several days to approve new shows, while Spotify typically approves shows within hours. Being listed in major directories is essential for discoverability—most listeners find new podcasts by browsing or searching within these apps. Some directories also have charts and featured sections that can drive significant traffic to your show. Beyond the major players, there are dozens of smaller directories and podcast apps, each with their own audience. Many podcasters submit to 10-20 directories to maximize reach. Each directory also collects reviews and ratings, which can influence your visibility in search results and recommendations. Managing your presence across multiple directories—updating descriptions, responding to reviews, and monitoring your rankings—is an important part of podcast growth strategy.