How-To Guide

How to Create a Podcast Playlist

Last updated: March 2026

Learn how to create podcast playlists and enhance your listening experience with The Podcast App, a free core listening with no app-inserted ads iOS podcast player.

Store listing · App Store and Google Play availability Free core listening iOS & Android

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Step by Step

Why How to Create a Podcast Playlist

Manual or Smart — Your Choice

Build a manual playlist by adding episodes one by one, or use smart filters to auto-populate it based on show, status, or duration.

Sync Across Devices

Your playlists and play positions sync automatically between iOS and Android. Start on your phone, finish on your tablet.

The Process

How to Get Started

1. Open the Library Tab

Tap Library in the bottom navigation. Your subscriptions and downloaded episodes are listed here.

2. Create a New Playlist

Tap the + icon and choose New Playlist. Give it a name, then set your filters — show, episode status, or duration.

3. Add Episodes

Drag episodes in or let the smart filters populate the list automatically. Reorder freely and press play.

How to Build a Podcast Playlist That Actually Plays in Order

A podcast playlist is just an ordered list of episodes that plays back-to-back without you touching your phone. Most people confuse this with the "queue" (a temporary Up Next list) or with subscribing to a show. A true playlist is saved, reusable, and reorderable, so you can build things like a "Morning Commute" mix, a "Deep Focus" set of long-form interviews, or a "Catch Up" list of episodes you fell behind on. The concept works the same across every major app, even though the buttons live in different places.

The manual method works everywhere. Open an episode's detail page or tap its three-dot (overflow) menu, choose "Add to Playlist" or "Add to Up Next," then either create a new list or drop it into an existing one. Repeat for each episode, then open the playlist and drag episodes to set the order. In Apple Podcasts this lives under Library, in Pocket Casts you build "Filters" and "Up Next," and Spotify limits podcast playlisting more than music. Smart or rule-based playlists are the upgrade: instead of adding episodes by hand, you set filters (a specific show, unplayed only, under 30 minutes) and the app keeps the list current as new episodes arrive.

In The Podcast App, playlists live in the Library tab. Tap the plus icon, choose New Playlist, name it, then either drag episodes in or set smart filters by show, play status, or duration so the list auto-populates. You can reorder freely and the whole thing plays continuously. Because playlists and playback positions sync across iOS and Android, you can start a playlist on your phone during a walk and pick it up on a tablet at home. Downloading a playlist for offline use means an entire commute or flight is queued up with no signal required.

A few practical tips make playlists genuinely useful rather than a chore. Keep lists short and themed, not one giant bucket, so playback order actually means something. Use duration filters to match a list to a real activity: sub-20-minute episodes for chores, 90-minute interviews for a road trip. Set unplayed-only rules so finished episodes drop off automatically and the list never gets stale. And if your app supports variable speed and a sleep timer, pair them with a bedtime playlist so it slows down and stops on its own.

Sources and further reading

Apple PodcastsApple's official podcasts app/platform homepage
SpotifySpotify homepage (podcasts + music listening)
Pocket CastsCross-platform podcast player (Automattic)
Find podcasts on iPhoneSearch and browse to discover shows in Apple Podcasts
Follow your favorite podcasts on iPhoneHow to follow/subscribe to shows in Apple Podcasts
YouTube MusicGoogle's app for music and podcasts
Podcast IndexOpen, independent podcast index and API

FAQ

Your Questions, Answered

1: Can I create multiple playlists in The Podcast App?+

Yes, The Podcast App allows you to create an unlimited number of playlists. Organize your podcasts by genre, mood, topic, or any other category that suits your listening habits.

2: How do I share my podcast playlists with friends?+

While direct playlist sharing is a feature we are constantly evaluating for future updates, you can easily share individual episodes or recommend entire podcasts to your friends directly from The Podcast App.

3: Is The Podcast App available on Android?+

Currently, The Podcast App is exclusively available for iOS devices, including iPhone and iPad. We are dedicated to providing the best possible experience for our Apple users.

What is the difference between a playlist and a queue?+

A queue (often called Up Next) is a temporary list of what plays next and usually clears as episodes finish. A playlist is saved and reusable: you name it, order it, and come back to it later. Some apps blur the line, but if you want a set that survives across sessions, look for a named, saved playlist rather than the queue.

Can I create a playlist mixing episodes from different shows?+

Yes. Playlists are built at the episode level, so you can combine an interview from one show, a news recap from another, and a comedy episode from a third into a single list. This is the main advantage over just subscribing: you curate across your whole library by theme, mood, or length rather than being locked to one feed.

What are smart or rule-based playlists?+

Smart playlists auto-populate from filters instead of manual adds. You set rules such as a specific show, unplayed episodes only, or duration under 30 minutes, and the app keeps the list current as new episodes publish and old ones get played. They are ideal for a recurring commute or workout list you never want to rebuild by hand.

Will my playlist download for offline listening?+

In most modern players, yes. After building a playlist you can download its episodes so the whole list plays without a connection, which is useful for flights or areas with weak signal. Check your app's storage settings, since some auto-delete downloaded episodes after you finish them to save space.

Do playlists sync between my phone and other devices?+

It depends on the app. Players that sync your library, such as The Podcast App across iOS and Android, keep playlists and playback positions consistent across devices, so you can switch mid-episode. Apps without account sync keep playlists on one device only. If cross-device listening matters, confirm the app offers library sync before you invest time curating.

How to Create a Podcast Playlist: Your Ultimate Guide

Introduction

Podcasts have become an indispensable part of our daily routines, offering a wealth of information, entertainment, and inspiration. Whether you are commuting, working out, or simply relaxing at home, a well-curated podcast playlist can enhance your listening experience. This guide will walk you through the process of creating effective podcast playlists, ensuring you get the most out of your audio content.

Why Create a Podcast Playlist?

Creating a podcast playlist offers several advantages:

Organization: Keep your favorite episodes and shows neatly organized. Efficiency: Save time by queuing up episodes in advance, avoiding constant searching. Discovery: Group related content to explore new topics or hosts. Offline Listening: Prepare episodes for listening without an internet connection.

Step-by-Step Guide to Creating a Podcast Playlist

Most podcast players offer functionality to create playlists. While the exact steps may vary slightly between apps, the general process remains consistent. Here’s a universal approach:

Choose Your Podcast App: Select a podcast player that supports playlist creation. The Podcast App for iOS is an excellent choice, offering intuitive playlist management alongside a host of other powerful features. Browse and Discover: Explore your favorite podcasts or discover new ones. Look for episodes that align with a specific theme, mood, or topic you want to curate. Add to Playlist: Once you find an episode you want to include, look for an "Add to Playlist" or similar option. This is usually accessible from the episode details page or a contextual menu (often represented by three dots). Create a New Playlist or Select Existing: If it\'s your first time, you\'ll likely be prompted to create a new playlist and give it a name (e.g., "Morning Commute," "Learning Tech," "True Crime Stories"). Otherwise, you can add the episode to an existing playlist. Arrange and Organize: After adding episodes, you can typically reorder them within the playlist to control the listening sequence. Most apps allow drag-and-drop functionality for easy arrangement. Enjoy Your Curated Listening: Once your playlist is set, simply hit play and enjoy a seamless listening experience tailored to your preferences.

The Podcast App: Your Ideal Playlist Companion

The Podcast App is designed to elevate your podcast listening experience, making playlist creation effortless and enjoyable. As a free core podcast player with no app-inserted ads for iOS, it stands out with its user-friendly interface and robust features.

Intuitive Playlist Management: Easily create, edit, and organize your playlists with a few taps. Group episodes by topic, mood, or any criteria you choose. AI Brain Search: Discover new episodes and podcasts to add to your playlists with unparalleled precision. Our AI-powered search understands your intent, helping you find exactly what you\'re looking for. Offline Listening: Download entire playlists for offline access, perfect for flights, commutes, or areas with limited connectivity. Never miss an episode, even without Wi-Fi. CarPlay Support: Seamlessly control your playlists and listen to your favorite podcasts directly from your car\'s infotainment system, ensuring a safe and enjoyable drive. experience without app-inserted ads: Enjoy uninterrupted listening without annoying advertisements, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in your curated content.

Key Features for Playlist Enthusiasts:

Conclusion

Creating podcast playlists is a simple yet powerful way to personalize and enhance your audio journey. With the right app, like The Podcast App, you can effortlessly curate your listening, discover new content, and enjoy an uninterrupted, experience without app-inserted ads. Download The Podcast App today and take control of your podcast world!