A secure SSL (HTTPS) podcast website is essential for modern podcasting. Using HTTPS protects the connection between your server and listeners’ browsers or podcast apps. More importantly, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other directories now require podcast feeds to use HTTPS with a valid TLS certificate. Without it, your show may be rejected or removed from directories.
Why a Secure SSL Podcast Website Matters
- Required by podcast directories – Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube Music, and others will not accept non-HTTPS feeds.
- Improved SEO – Google prioritizes HTTPS websites in search results.
- Faster performance – HTTP/2 and HTTP/3 (both require HTTPS) reduce load times and improve reliability.
- Listener trust – A secure site builds confidence that your show is professional and safe.
TLS Requirements (Updated 2025)
- TLS 1.2 – The minimum protocol supported by Apple Podcasts and all major browsers.
- TLS 1.3 – Recommended for best security and performance; fully supported in 2025.
- Deprecated – SSLv2, SSLv3, TLS 1.0, and TLS 1.1 are no longer accepted and should not be enabled.
SSL/TLS Certificate Best Practices
- Use certificates from a trusted Certificate Authority (CA) such as Let’s Encrypt, DigiCert, GlobalSign, Entrust, GoDaddy, or Sectigo/Comodo.
- Avoid self-signed certificates — Apple Podcasts and Spotify will not accept them.
- Ensure your certificate includes the full chain (root + intermediate certificates), or apps may reject your feed.
- If you manage multiple subdomains (e.g., blog.example.com and media.example.com), consider a wildcard SSL certificate.
Testing Your Secure Podcast Website
After setting up HTTPS, test your configuration to make sure your podcast feed is fully compliant:
- SSL Labs Server Test – Full certificate and protocol analysis with grading.
- SSL Shopper Checker – Confirms proper installation and chain configuration.
- DigiCert Diagnostics Tool – Identifies vulnerabilities and misconfigurations.
Apple Podcasts & SSL Certificates
Apple Podcasts no longer maintains a fixed list of supported SSL providers. Instead, it relies on the device’s operating system trust store. Certificates from major providers like Let’s Encrypt, DigiCert, GlobalSign, Entrust, and GoDaddy are widely trusted and work without issue. Avoid lesser-known or deprecated providers such as StartCom / StartSSL, which are no longer accepted.
Common SSL Issues with Podcast Feeds
- Expired certificates – Feeds break if your certificate isn’t renewed. (Tip: Let’s Encrypt renews automatically every 90 days.)
- Incomplete chain – Missing intermediates cause Apple Podcasts to reject feeds.
- Old TLS protocols enabled – Ensure your server only supports TLS 1.2 and 1.3.
Blubrry WordPress Hosting and SSL
Blubrry’s Managed WordPress Websites include SSL certificates and support for HTTP/2 and HTTP/3 by default. Certificates are automatically issued and renewed through Let’s Encrypt, configured with the complete chain, so your podcast feed remains secure and fully compliant with Apple Podcasts and all major directories.