In this guide
A podcast is a show distributed as episodes for listeners to play on demand, often as audio and sometimes as video. Many shows use an RSS feed and a hosting service to distribute episodes to listening apps; availability and access depend on the show and platform.
A podcast is a show distributed as episodes that people can play on demand. Many podcasts are audio conversations, stories or lessons; some also offer video. You can listen to an episode when you choose, follow a show for future episodes and, in many apps, download episodes for offline listening.
A show is the overall series; an episode is one installment. A podcast might be a short weekly news update, a long interview series or a limited fictional story. Some shows are free, some offer paid episodes or subscriptions, and availability varies by platform and region.
How do podcasts work?
- A creator makes an episode. They record or produce the audio or video and prepare a title, description and other information.
- The episode is hosted. Many creators upload it to a podcast hosting service that stores the media and provides an RSS feed—a machine-readable list of the show and its episodes.
- Listening apps find the show. A creator can submit an eligible feed to directories and apps. Some services also offer shows through platform-specific publishing or subscription arrangements.
- A listener chooses when to play. In an app, the listener can browse episodes, stream one or download it if the app and show allow. Following a show can make new episodes easier to find.
For RSS-based shows, Apple explains how hosting and feed URLs work. An RSS feed is common, but not every audio or video show is distributed in the same way on every platform.
Podcast terms explained
| Term | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Show | The overall series and its identity. | A recurring interview program about local history. |
| Episode | One installment of a show. | An interview with one guest. |
| Host | The person or people presenting the episode; the word can also mean the hosting service in a technical context. | A presenter introduces a guest; a service stores the audio. |
| RSS feed | A structured feed that can describe a show and link to its media. | A podcast app reads the feed to discover episodes. |
| Follow or subscribe | Save a show in an app to keep track of it; some services also use subscription for paid access. | Follow a free show, or pay for a separate subscriber benefit where offered. |
How to listen to a podcast
- Open a listening app or website. Search for a subject, show name or person you want to hear.
- Choose an episode. Read the title and description. Some shows work in any order; a serialized story may be easier to follow from its first episode.
- Press play. Adjust volume and playback speed to your preference. Streaming uses a network connection; downloading, where available, can make an episode available offline.
- Follow the show if you want updates. The exact button and notification settings depend on the app. Check whether a show or individual episode requires payment.
You do not necessarily need special equipment. A phone, computer or compatible smart speaker can play many podcasts, with or without headphones. Some creators publish an RSS feed that supported apps can follow directly; Apple documents following a show by feed URL.
Podcast vs. radio vs. audiobook
| Format | Typical listening experience | Overlap |
|---|---|---|
| Podcast | Episodes are commonly available on demand as part of a show. | A podcast can contain interviews, storytelling, news or educational material. |
| Radio | Traditionally scheduled broadcasts; many stations also provide online and on-demand playback. | A radio program can distribute episodes as a podcast. |
| Audiobook | A recorded reading or performance of a book, often organized into chapters. | A serialized audio story can resemble an audiobook; distribution and format vary. |
Can a podcast have video?
Yes. Some creators provide video episodes as well as—or instead of—an audio version. A listener’s app and the creator’s distribution setup determine what is available. Apple’s video podcast documentation describes one RSS-based distribution route; other platforms have their own workflows.
When editing video, remember that replacing a soundtrack requires aligning the selected audio with the picture and checking the final export. See how to replace audio in a video.
For setup choices, see what podcast equipment beginners need.
Record a simple first podcast episode
- Pick one listener and one topic. Outline a short introduction, two or three points and a closing sentence. A five-minute test is enough to learn the workflow.
- Choose a quiet place. Listen for fans, traffic and room reflections. Record a short test and check that the voice is clear without clipping.
- Capture the take. The voice recorder saves a single microphone recording locally. Download it and listen to the beginning, a quiet phrase and the end. It does not host or publish a podcast.
- Edit and review. Import the file into a compatible editor, remove unwanted sections and check transitions. Use music only when you have the necessary rights. Our podcast editing guide covers the broader process.
- Prepare distribution. Choose a hosting and distribution method, review the provider’s current format and artwork requirements, and publish a test episode when ready. Apple’s RSS requirements describe its own submission criteria; other platforms may differ.
For a platform-specific starting point, see how to start a podcast on Spotify. Before processing a mixed interview, preserve the original and try to obtain separately recorded speakers where possible.
Do podcasts cost money?
Many podcasts can be played without paying the creator, while some episodes or benefits require a paid subscription. A listening app, hosting service or data connection can have its own costs. Check the terms of the particular show and service instead of assuming that “follow” always means a paid subscription.
Common questions
Do I need an account to listen?
It depends on the app and show. Some websites allow playback without an account; others require one for listening, following or subscriber-only content.
Are podcasts always live?
No. Many are recorded and played on demand, although creators can also produce live shows and later release recordings as episodes.
Do podcasts have to be interviews?
No. They can be solo commentary, fiction, reporting, education, conversations or other formats. Choose the format that suits the idea and audience.