Some podcast hosts allow you to automatically distribute your podcast to apps like Spotify and Apple. But if this is done by the podcast host, how do you still get access to the app's dashboard? By claiming ownership of your podcast you gain control over how your podcast is displayed and have access to podcast statistics. Should you decide to move to a different host, for example, it is important to submit the correct RSS feed to Spotify, Apple or any of the other apps.

How do you claim ownership to a podcast that has been distributed by the host? Here is a step-by-step plan for Apple Podcasts.

Claiming ownership with Apple Podcasts
1. Search for your Apple ID or create an Apple ID. If you have an iOS device, you can create an Apple ID there. For example, in the iTunes app or on the device itself under settings. Using an Android device? Download the iTunes app on your device and create an Apple ID there. You can also create an Apple ID via the web.
2. Login to Apple Podcasts Connect

3. Scroll down to the footer and select 'contact us'
4. Choose topic 'other' and mention at least the following in the message:
- Your Apple Podcasts show URL
- The podcast's RSS feed
- Your Apple Account ID (with which you want to claim ownership). You can find this under 'Details pane' in the Account section.
And indicate that you want to claim the podcast.
After 1 or 2 days, Apple will send you an email containing an authorization code, which you must place in your RSS feed (in the keyword's or copyright field). You cannot do this yourself, but you can ask your current host.
When you receive confirmation from the host that the code has been placed, you can email Apple back with notification that the code has been posted to the RSS feed.
After Apple confirms that ownership has been claimed, the podcast show will automatically appear in your Apple Podcasts Connect account.