Distribution and Podcast Apps FAQ

How long does it take podcast listening platforms to accept a new RSS feed and publish a podcast?

Each platform is a little different. Some will accept an RSS feed and publish a podcast within a few days while others can take up to 2 weeks. Not all listening platforms will notify you when your podcast has been published. Your best bet is to periodically search for your podcast on each platform until it's been published.

I submitted by podcast's RSS feed to Apple Podcasts but there's a problem. What should I do?

Review our Apple Podcasts Troubleshooting guide. The Apple Podcast Connect help center also includes detailed guides for each error message you might be seeing.

I've added a new episode in Castos. How long does it take to appear on podcast apps? 

Although this process is automatic, it's not immediate. It can take up to 24 hours to see new episodes, updated cover art, etc. updated on each platform. 

Will I have to resubmit the RSS feed every time I publish a new episode?

No. A connection is created between the podcast listening platform and your podcast once the RSS feed has been accepted and your podcast has been published. After that, each platform will recognize new episodes are available in your podcast's RSS feed and add them to your podcast.

Do I need an Apple ID and Apple Podcast Connect account to publish my podcast on Apple Podcasts?

Yes. Before submitting your podcast's RSS feed you'll need to create a free Apple Podcast Connect account. Apple has put together this step-by-step guide if you have any questions.

Why do my analytics seem off?

Each podcast listening platform updates listener analytics in your Castos dashboard at their own pace and some require 24 hours. This means if a subscriber listened to an episode today, you might not see that reflected in your Castos dashboard until tomorrow. Some platforms also include the option to view listener analytics directly in your podcaster account including Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and Spotify for Creators. 

I have a video podcast. Which podcast directories support video playback?

If your podcast includes video, it’s important to know where it will be properly supported. Some directories, like Apple Podcasts, Pocket Casts, and Podcast Addict (on Android), openly support video playback directly in their apps. Others—such as iHeartRadio, Deezer, and Amazon Music—will accept an RSS feed that includes video, but they’ll only play the audio portion. Pandora does not currently support video podcast submissions via RSS at all. And lastly, Spotify does not recognize or accept video episodes in an RSS feed from third-party hosting platforms.