Frequently Asked Questions

Is PodPoint only for church sermons and messages?

No. While PodPoint is certainly designed for churches to easily offer media content online, we welcome any podcast with Christian-based content. We also encourage churches to explore new ways to use media online, including announcements, supplemental content, and leadership training.

What is the difference between a podcast and simply linking to a media file from my website?

A common misconception is that having media available on your website is the same as having a podcast. However, a podcast feed gives your audience a mechanism to receive new content automatically, without the need to constantly check your website. Recent episodes will be downloaded to their computer or mobile device, and they can listen at any time. In contrast, simply linking to a media file on your website does not accomplish this. The listener would be required to continually check your website for new content, which is not as convenient.

Can I upload our entire worship service?

Yes. However, in order to upload audio that contains copyrighted music, you must obtain a suitable license. Because of this, many churches choose to simply upload the message content, which does not require extra licensing. If you are interested in the ability to legally upload music content, you can obtain licensing at WorshipCast.

What media file formats does PodPoint support?

Audio files must be uploaded in .mp3 format. Most audio applications have the ability to export an audio file as an MP3. Video files can be uploaded as MP4, MOV, or AVI.

What equipment will I need?

In most cases, no extra equipment is necessary. A standard setup involves connecting a line out from your soundboard to a computer running free audio recording software such as Audacity. However, many people use alternative methods such as the built-in microphone on a computer or recording the audio to CD and extracting it as an MP3 file.

Does it cost money for people to listen or subscribe to our podcast?

No. By design, all podcasts will be open and available free of charge to listeners.

How many people can subscribe or listen to our podcast?

We do not limit the number of subscriptions, downloads, or streams. Feel free to promote your podcast as much as you desire.

Does bandwidth cost extra?

No. We cover all expenses related to file hosting, streaming, and bandwidth. You simply pay a low monthly fee and nothing more.

How can I get my podcast listed on iTunes?

All of our paid accounts come with a free iTunes (Apple Podcast) listing. Once you publish the first episode on your podcast, we will handle all the requirements to make the podcast available in iTunes. This allows people from all over the world to easily find your podcast and subscribe.

How can I allow users to listen to the podcast on our website?

We offer embed codes that can easily be integrated into your existing website. Alternatively, you can link directly to your custom PodPoint channel page.

Are we required to sign any long-term contracts?

All accounts are billed on a monthly or annual basis. You are free to cancel at any time.

Do listeners need an iPod or MP3 player to listen to my podcast?

No. Your users can listen to your podcast directly online or on any mobile device. We offer a variety of web players and subscription mechanisms.

Do you offer live streaming for churches?

Yes. Live streaming can be added as an additional service to any paid account. This provides the ability to live stream to Facebook, YouTube, and your custom streaming page. Simply go to the “Live Streaming” section within your PodPoint console to get started. [https://podpoint.com/podpanel/live/broadcast]

What are “active episodes” and how does the limit work for the Audio Starter plan?

While our paid plans offer unlimited active episodes, the Audio Starter (free) plan has a limit of 10 active (published) episodes. Only active episodes are available publicly for streaming and downloading. Inactive episodes can still be retained in your account, but they will no longer be available on your channel for your audience. The status of each episode within your account can be changed at any time, providing the ability to publish new content once another episode is designated as inactive. By allowing inactive episodes to be retained within the account, it makes it much easier to activate and offer your entire archive if you ever choose to upgrade to a paid plan in the future.

How long does it take for my listing to be available on iTune (Apple Podcasts)?

The PodPoint platform provides the ability to easily manage a podcast with distribution through the iTunes (Apple Podcasts) directory. After uploading and publishing your first message, we work with Apple to have your podcast listed in the podcast directory. This process typically takes 5-7 business days, and you will receive an email notification once the podcast is publicly available on iTunes.

Once your listing is approved, people from all over the world will be able to search and find your podcast using iTunes. When you publish new content on your PodPoint channel, iTunes will automatically be updated within 12 hours, allowing subscribers to download or stream the most recent media.

How do I use the Online Audio Recorder?

The online audio recorder is an easy way to record media directly into your PodPoint account using the microphone or “line-in” on your computer.

You can access the recorder by following these instructions:

1. Login to your PodPoint account. https://podpoint.com/login
2. Click the “Media” option in the sidebar and then select “Media Manager.” http://podpoint.com/podpanel/media
3. Click the “Record Audio” button on the Media Manager page. https://podpoint.com/podpanel/media/record/audio
4. Approve the browser’s request access to your microphone.
5. Click “Start Recording.”

Once you are finished, the audio will automatically be uploaded to your account. Please leave your browser window open while the upload is completed. We recommend testing this process a few times before recording a message or sermon.

Do you offer annual plans for a discounted rate?

Yes, we do offer discounted annual plans. Please feel free to contact us if you would like to take advantage of this option.

Can I have my channel listed on Google Play, Spotify, Stitcher, or TuneIn?

Yes. We maintain distributor relationships with all the major podcasting platforms. Simply visit the “Share & Embed” section within your PodPoint console to request distributions on additional platforms. [https://podpoint.com/podpanel/share]

How can I cancel my live streaming service?

Live streaming can be removed from your account at any time. Simply go to the “Live Streaming” section within your PodPoint console and click the "cancel your streaming service" link near the bottom of the page. [https://podpoint.com/podpanel/live/broadcast]