The challenge
Most podcast apps let listeners add a show by pasting in an RSS URL. Spotify doesn't offer this. So the standard private podcast flow — "send listener a unique feed URL, they add it to their app" — doesn't work on Spotify out of the box.
Spotify Open Access
Spotify's solution is called Open Access. It's a program that allows podcast hosting platforms to authenticate listeners before granting access to a show on Spotify.
Here's how it works: the listener finds the show on Spotify and taps "subscribe." Instead of immediately getting access, they're redirected to a web page where they authenticate (usually by entering their email). Once verified, the show appears in their Spotify library with full access.
Key difference
On Apple Podcasts or Overcast, listeners add a private podcast by tapping a link. On Spotify, they find the show in Spotify first, then authenticate. The end result is the same — they get access — but the flow is different.
Which hosting platforms support this?
Not all podcast hosting platforms have implemented Spotify Open Access. Transistor supports private podcasts on Spotify, handling the authentication flow and subscriber management automatically.
Things to know
The Spotify Open Access experience has a few quirks. Notifications can be delayed when new episodes are published — Spotify's systems don't always push new episode alerts as quickly as traditional podcast apps. The authentication step can also cause some friction for less technical listeners.
For most creators, supporting Spotify alongside Apple Podcasts and other apps gives their listeners the widest range of options. Just be aware that the experience isn't quite as seamless as it is on apps with native RSS support.
Private podcasts that work on Spotify
Transistor handles Spotify Open Access for you. Your listeners can subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and every other major app.
Get started with Transistor