Sunday August 3, 2025; 12:32 PM EDT
A podcast user's API

On Thursday I wrote: "It would be interesting if Pocket Casts had an API. I would love to be able to one-click subscribe to a podcast in my feed reader. I mention Pocket Casts because it's the podcast client I use on my phone, but I would obviously like to see them all support an API, ideally a common API."

Today I explain why that would open things up nicely.

Basically I do my feed discovery on my desktop. My phone is for listening to podcasts, either while driving, walking or riding. My eyes are busy. I'm listening and thinking (hopefully) about the great ideas I'm hearing.

You know I'm always looking for a new inspiring listen. Podcasts wear out their welcome, people repeat themselves, get depressing or boring, or somehow I don't get excited about them like I used to. That simple API that lets a feed reader user subscribe to a podcast would make all the difference. If a podcast client app did this I would do the other side from FeedLand, in a heartbeat.

Most of the APIs for podcasting are focused on the needs of publishers, this one is more focused on what users want -- better discovery, and that starts with better tools.

It's a quick podcast.