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The Difference Between Serial and Episodic Podcasts
The Difference Between Serial and Episodic Podcasts

Choose the Best Format for Your Podcast

Luke avatar
Written by Luke
Updated over a week ago

Apple allows you to list your show in three different ways on their iOS Apple Podcasts app: 

  1. Episodic

  2. Episodic with Seasons

  3. Serial

This article will break down of the differences between each type and how to select the format you want for your show on Simplecast.

1. Episodic

This is the default format. Podcast episodes are displayed from newest-to-oldest. The most recently published episodes will be listed at the top of the feed. This format is recommended for stand-alone episodes.

Here is an example of the episodic format in Apple Podcasts iOS app:

2. Episodic with Seasons

This format enables you to group episodes into seasons with the episodes displayed from newest-to-oldest. The most recently published episodes will be listed at the top of the feed similar to the default Episodic format, only grouped into seasons. This format is recommended for stand-alone episodes.

3. Serial

The Serial format arranges podcast episodes from oldest-to-newest nested within the assigned season. Newest season is listed at the top of the Apple Podcasts listing. This option supports narratives, storytelling, thematic, and multiple seasons.

Here is an example of the 'Serial' format in Apple Podcasts iOS app:

For more information about these show types and other Apple Podcasts tags, visit RSS tags for Podcasts Connect by Apple.

How to Select a Show Type and Assign Episodes to a Season

All shows are Episodic by default, but you can easily change formats at any time. Be sure to Save after selecting a new format. 

  1. Select Show Settings from the dropdown menu on the top left corner of your Simplecast account.

  2. Scroll down to Format and select the radio button for show type you want.

  3. Select SAVE from the top right corner of your Simplecast account.

Episodes 

After selecting Episodic with Seasons or Serial as your show type/format, you'll be able to assign episodes to your season/s when creating new episodes or editing previously published episodes.

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Still have questions? We'd be happy to answer them. You can reach our Support Team at support@simplecast.com!

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