How to convert YouTube to a podcast (RSS)

A step-by-step walkthrough to turn a YouTube channel into a private podcast RSS feed, then subscribe in any podcast app. On desktop, the usual path is now to scan a QR code instead of manually copying the RSS URL. If you're converting BiliBili, the flow is the same: paste a BiliBili channel or playlist URL.

Updated 2026-03-31

Before you start

Pick a channel or playlist you want to listen to regularly. Public sources work best.

Decide what you want to exclude (shorts, ads, off-topic uploads) so your feed stays clean.

Step 1: Add the YouTube source

Paste the channel or playlist URL (YouTube or BiliBili) and create a subscription.

If the channel has multiple types of uploads, set keyword filters and a duration range.

  • Channel URL or playlist URL
  • Optional keyword include/exclude
  • Optional duration filter

Step 2: Choose your podcast app

After creating the subscription on desktop, open the podcast app picker and choose the app you want to use, such as Apple Podcasts, Pocket Casts, Overcast, AntennaPod, or Podcast Addict.

PigeonPod will then generate a QR code for the app you selected, so you can continue the subscription flow on your phone much more quickly.

Step 3: Scan the QR code to subscribe

Use your phone camera to scan the QR code and open the subscription flow directly in the corresponding podcast app.

In most cases, this replaces the old copy-and-paste RSS workflow.

Step 4: Use the RSS link only when needed

If QR-based subscription is not convenient for your app or device, you can still copy the RSS URL as a fallback.

In apps that require manual entry, look for “Add RSS feed”, “Follow by URL”, or similar wording.

Step 5: Keep it updated

Enable auto-sync so new uploads show up as new episodes without manual work.

Troubleshooting

If a feed item doesn't appear or playback fails, these are the usual causes.

  • The source is members-only or region-restricted
  • Your filters are too strict and exclude everything
  • Your podcast app caches feeds and needs time to refresh

FAQ

Do I need a YouTube account?

No. For public sources, you only need the channel or playlist URL.

Do I always have to paste the RSS link by hand?

No. On desktop, the normal path is now to choose a podcast app and scan the generated QR code. Manual RSS copy is still there as a fallback.

Try PigeonPod

Convert a channel once, then let auto-sync keep your podcast queue updated.

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