As you're creating your podcast, you'll be asked to mark if it contains explicit content. This makes sure that your podcast gets in front of the appropriate audience and keeps your episodes from being flagged by some directories. Since the definition of "explicit" can be a bit vague, we're here to help clarify what qualifies!
What is "Explicit" Content?
The explicit label will apply anytime your episode contains content that might be offensive or unsuitable for children.
This includes:
- Strong language or profanity;
- References to violence, physical, or mental abuse;
- References to sexual behavior;
- Discriminatory language;
- Words, topics, or references to age-sensitive subjects.
This is especially important if you're listing your podcast on Apple Podcasts.
Apple specifies that "creators must flag individual episodes with the 'Explicit' tag if they contain explicit content (for example, profanity or content that may not be suitable for children)."
Note: When in doubt, it's always safer to label your episode as explicit. This won't negatively impact your show, but it could help avoid any potential issues with flagged content.
How Do I Mark My Podcast as Explicit?
If the majority of your episodes are explicit, we recommend marking your podcast as explicit as a whole. On the Podcast Info page in your Buzzsprout account, scroll to the bottom of the page until you see the Explicit Content box. Just check that box, and we will mark all your episodes as explicit by default. That tells Apple Podcasts to put an E next to your show, letting your audience know what to expect in your episodes.
How Do I Mark an Individual Episode as Explicit?
If your podcast is clean, but you have an episode or two that includes some explicit content, you can mark explicit episodes individually. In your episode details page, click Edit and scroll down to the Explicit Content check box. Then check that box, and the directories will let audiences know about that one specific episode.
Does Buzzsprout Allow Explicit Content?
In general, Buzzsprout doesn't restrict podcasts with explicit content as outlined in this article. But, we do restrict some content from Buzzsprout and have content guidelines to help make sure the space is safe. To learn more about those specifics, check out our
Buzzsprout Policies.
If you have any questions about explicit content, please reach out to us at
support@buzzsprout.com, and we'd love to help!