Digital World

Using a Podcast Directory

A podcast directory is a listing of syndication feeds that

link to a podcast. They are often organized by category

and topic, and allow the user to find a feed that podcasts

about almost anything. Just as search engines help

people find sites with the information they need, a

podcast directory presents a searchable list of podcasts

users can subscribe to. Users may even be able to play

the available feed episodes from within the site.

Unlike most search engines, though, a podcast directory

rarely searches out and finds content on its own,

automatically. All the feeds are either contributed by

users who want people to find their podcast, or added

by the staff. Nearly anyone can set up a podcast, but

gaining visitors can be difficult, and so podcasters can

submit their feeds to the directory to gain readers.

Since its so easy to make a podcast, a podcast directory

often uses ways to separate the very good feeds from

the ones people do not enjoy as much. A directory may

have a ranking system, feature certain special feeds on

the front page, or even allow visitors to comment with

their thoughts on a feed.

Visitors to a podcast directory can thus add their own

podcasts, search for feeds on topics or regions that

interest them, and even comment on those they like or