Being discoverable is as important as producing quality content. For podcasters, mastering podcast SEO (search engine optimization) can be the key to reaching new audiences and climbing the ranks on search engines and listening platforms. Dave Clements, a seasoned tech support analyst at Blubrry, recently shared insights on how podcasters can optimize their shows to attract more listeners.
“If you’ve ever wondered why your podcast isn’t being found as easily as you’d like — whether on Google, Bing, or even on platforms like ChatGPT — stick around,” Dave says. “We’re diving into what podcast SEO is, why it matters, and how you can use it to your advantage.”
Why SEO Matters for Podcasters
While SEO is commonly associated with blogging, Dave emphasizes that podcasts are equally ripe for search engine visibility. As he explains, “When someone types in a topic you cover — like ‘true crime in Arizona’ or ‘marketing tips for small businesses’ — you want your episode to show up. But that won’t happen unless you optimize your show and episodes.”
Building a Strong SEO Foundation
The basics start with structure. “Keep your show name clear and relevant,” Dave advises. “Don’t stuff it with keywords, but give enough context so listeners and search engines know what your show is about.”
Owning your domain is also critical. “With PowerPress on a WordPress site under your own .com, Google sees you as the original content source,” he explains. This offers a significant SEO advantage over using third-party subdomains.
Dave also highlights the importance of a searchable show description and wise category selection. “Apple Podcasts lets you choose up to three categories. Use them to align your content with the right audience.”
Optimizing Episode-Level Content
Beyond show-level SEO, Dave encourages podcasters to be intentional with episode titles and show notes. “Keep titles descriptive, not clickbait,” he says. “Show notes are like mini blog posts—use keywords naturally and summarize the episode content clearly.”
Transcripts, he adds, are “your secret SEO weapon.” Embedding them in your RSS feed gives search engines a full textual record of your content, improving your discoverability on platforms like Google, Perplexity, and even ChatGPT.
Linking Strategies and Social Media
Dave underscores the power of backlinks and internal linking. “Invite guests who’ll share your episode link, and link between your own episodes. That tells search engines your content is connected and valuable.”
While social media doesn’t directly boost SEO, it can drive valuable traffic. “Link to your .com in the comments, not just the post,” Dave suggests. “That can help avoid penalties from platforms trying to keep users onsite.”
Why PowerPress and Blubrry Hosting Matter
Ultimately, the tools you use can make all the difference. “With Blubrry’s PowerPress plugin, you control your content and feed, which is crucial for SEO,” Dave explains. “Add tools like Yoast to your WordPress site and you’ve got a powerful, optimized setup.”
“It’s time to make your podcast searchable, discoverable, and unstoppable,” Dave concludes. “Record for your audience, and write for Google.”
For podcasters ready to take control of their SEO game, Blubrry and PowerPress offer a tried-and-true solution built for discoverability from day one.