Live Item

The Live Item feature in PowerPress allows you to mark a podcast episode as a live event, so listeners can tune in while it is happening.

This feature is part of the Podcasting 2.0 initiative and is supported by compatible podcast apps. When enabled, your show can appear as “live” in those apps, allowing listeners to join in real time. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

What is a Live Item?

A Live Item is essentially a special type of podcast episode that represents a live stream instead of a pre-recorded file.

It tells supported podcast apps:

  • When your live event starts
  • When it ends
  • Where to listen or watch the live stream

This allows podcast apps to notify listeners and make your live content accessible directly within the app. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

Note: Not all podcast apps support Live Items. This feature will only appear in apps that support Podcasting 2.0 features.

Enable the Live Item Feature

To begin, enable the feature by selecting Enable Live Item Feature.

Once enabled, you can configure live stream details for your podcast.

Live Item Settings

Click Live Item for base feed: Click Here to open the live event settings for your podcast.

From here, you can define the details of your live stream:

  • Status: Set the event status:
    • Pending – Scheduled but not started
    • Live – Currently streaming
    • Ended – Stream has finished
  • Start Date/Time: When your live stream begins
  • End Date/Time: When your live stream ends
  • Timezone: The timezone for your event
  • Livestream Title: The title shown to listeners during the live event
  • Stream Type: The format of your stream (for example, audio or video)
  • Audio/Video Stream Link: The URL where your live stream is hosted
  • Fallback Link: A backup link (such as a webpage or YouTube stream) if the app cannot play the stream directly
  • Episode Link (Optional): A link to a related episode or page
  • Cover Art (Optional): Artwork specific to the live event
  • Description (Optional): Additional details about the live stream
Tip: The Fallback Link is important. It gives listeners another way to access your stream if their podcast app cannot play it directly. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

When to Use Live Item

Use the Live Item feature if your podcast includes live elements such as:

  • Live recordings
  • Scheduled livestream events
  • Interactive shows with real-time listeners

If your podcast is fully pre-recorded, you do not need to use this feature.