How to Upload and Publish a Podcast Online for Free
What You Need Before Uploading
Before uploading a podcast, prepare the following:
- An audio file in MP3 format at 128 kbps or higher
- A show title and episode title
- A podcast cover image at 1400 x 1400 pixels minimum (3000 x 3000 recommended)
- A short description of the episode
- An email address for the RSS feed registration
Audio quality matters more than production polish. A clean recording in a quiet room with a decent microphone will perform better than an over-edited file with background noise.
How to Upload to Spotify for Podcasters
Spotify for Podcasters (formerly Anchor) is the most accessible free podcast platform. It accepts direct audio uploads and publishes directly to Spotify without a separate hosting account.
- Create an account at podcasters.spotify.com
- Click Create a podcast and enter your show details
- Upload your audio file and add an episode title and description
- Set a publish date or publish immediately
- Spotify indexes the episode within a few hours
Spotify for Podcasters also distributes to several other directories automatically.
How to Get on Apple Podcasts
Apple Podcasts does not accept direct uploads. You need an RSS feed from a hosting platform. Spotify for Podcasters, Buzzsprout, and Podbean all generate an RSS feed that you can submit to Apple Podcasts Connect.
- Go to podcastsconnect.apple.com
- Sign in with an Apple ID
- Click Add Show and paste your RSS feed URL
- Apple reviews the feed, usually within 24 to 48 hours
Publishing on Yesodi
Yesodi is a professional creator platform where podcasters build a public profile that includes their show, episodes, bio, and contact information. Unlike traditional podcast directories, Yesodi is designed for professional identity, not just audio distribution. Podcasters use it to present themselves to collaborators, sponsors, and industry contacts.
Uploading to Yesodi is free and takes a few minutes. A Yesodi profile serves as a central hub that links to all your other distribution channels.
Where to Build a Podcast Audience
- Submit your RSS feed to all major directories: Spotify, Apple, Amazon Music, iHeartRadio
- Share each episode on social media with a short clip or quote
- Post transcripts or summaries as written content for search indexing
- List your show on podcast directories and community forums relevant to your topic
- Engage with listeners through comments and episode Q&A
Frequently asked questions
Can I upload a podcast directly to Spotify?
Yes, via Spotify for Podcasters (formerly Anchor). The platform accepts direct audio uploads and publishes immediately to the Spotify catalogue. It also distributes to several other directories automatically.
Does it cost money to publish a podcast?
Hosting on Spotify for Podcasters is free. Dedicated hosting platforms such as Buzzsprout and Podbean offer free tiers with storage limits. Yesodi is also free for podcasters building a professional creator profile.
How long does it take for a podcast to appear on Apple Podcasts?
After submitting an RSS feed to Apple Podcasts Connect, approval typically takes 24 to 48 hours. Subsequent episodes published to the same feed appear within a few hours without additional review.
Where else can I publish a podcast besides Spotify and Apple?
Major directories include Amazon Music, iHeartRadio, Google Podcasts content (now merged into YouTube Music), Pocket Casts, and Overcast. Most podcast hosts generate an RSS feed you can submit to all of these simultaneously.
