Podcasting terms

Syndication

The distribution of podcast episodes across multiple platforms and directories.

What is syndication in podcasting?

Syndication in podcasting refers to the process of distributing a podcast across multiple platforms to reach a wider audience. This is typically done through RSS (Really Simple Syndication) feeds, which allow users to subscribe to a podcast and automatically receive new episodes when they are released.

The syndication process involves creating an RSS feed for the podcast, which includes information about the podcast such as the title, description, and links to the audio files. This feed is then submitted to various podcast directories and platforms, such as Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts. When a new episode is released, it is automatically added to the RSS feed and distributed to all the platforms where the podcast is listed. This allows listeners to easily access and download new episodes, regardless of which platform they use to listen to podcasts.

How does syndication work in podcasting?

Syndication in podcasting works through the use of RSS (Really Simple Syndication) feeds. Podcast creators upload their audio files to a podcast hosting site and create an RSS feed for their show. This feed is a type of web file that contains all the information about the podcast, including episode titles, descriptions, images, and most importantly, the URLs of the audio files.

When a listener subscribes to a podcast using a podcast app or directory, the app checks the show's RSS feed for new episodes. Whenever a new episode is added to the feed, the app automatically downloads or streams it for the listener. This allows listeners to receive new content from their favorite shows automatically, without having to check back for updates. This is the essence of syndication in podcasting.

What are the benefits of syndication in podcasting?

Syndication in podcasting offers several benefits, primarily in terms of expanding reach and increasing audience size. By syndicating a podcast, the content is distributed across multiple platforms, making it accessible to a wider range of listeners. This can significantly boost the podcast's visibility and popularity, potentially attracting more subscribers and listeners. It also allows for the podcast to be discovered through various channels, increasing the chances of gaining a diverse audience.

Additionally, syndication can also lead to increased revenue opportunities. With a larger audience, podcasters can attract more advertisers and sponsors, leading to higher income. It also allows for the potential of cross-promotion with other podcasts or platforms, further expanding the audience and revenue opportunities. Furthermore, syndication can save time and effort for the podcaster as they do not have to manually upload their content to multiple platforms.

How to set up syndication for my podcast?

Setting up syndication for your podcast involves creating an RSS feed, which is a type of web feed that allows users and applications to receive regular updates from a website or blog. You can create an RSS feed using a podcast hosting platform like Libsyn, Podbean, or Anchor. These platforms will automatically generate an RSS feed for your podcast when you upload a new episode. You'll need to provide some basic information about your podcast, such as its title, description, and cover art.

Once you have your RSS feed, you can submit it to podcast directories like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts. These platforms will use your RSS feed to update your podcast whenever you release a new episode. To submit your RSS feed, you'll need to create an account with each platform and follow their submission process. This usually involves pasting your RSS feed URL into a submission form and providing some additional information about your podcast. Once your podcast is approved, it will be available for listeners to subscribe and download episodes.

If you also work with videos...

You should try Tella.tv - your all-in-one screen recorder, to create launch videos, product demos, social media videos, 1:1s for customers, and more!

Tella isn't just a screen recorder. It combines the simplicity of Loom with the creativity of Canva to create great looking videos with no effort.

With Tella, you can record your screen and/or camera, combine separate clips and quickly remove mistakes, apply beautiful backgrounds, change the camera layout, add zoom effects - almost instantly.

Tella screen recorder

< Back to Podcasting glossary

Try Tella today!

Screen recording for creators — simple and powerful.

7-day free trial — no credit card required