How to Check if a Podcast Name is Taken

Think you’ve found the perfect podcast name? Hold on—don’t hit publish just yet.

Naming your podcast isn’t just about creativity. If your name is already taken, you risk legal trouble, platform takedowns, or worse—confusing your audience and losing hard-earned listeners to someone else’s show.

Before you build your brand around a name, make sure it’s 100% available.

Here’s how to check if your podcast name is taken—step by step.

✅ Pro Tip: Want to save time? Use our Podcast Name Generator to get name ideas that are brandable and available.

Step 1 – Google It

Start simple: search your podcast name in Google using quotation marks.

Example: "The Startup Spark Podcast"

Look for:

• Existing podcasts with the same or similar names

• YouTube videos, blog posts, or brands using that title

• Variations that could cause confusion (e.g., plural/singular, different spelling)

If you find a direct match—even if the podcast seems inactive—it’s best to move on or significantly alter the name.

Step 2 – Search Podcast Directories

You’ll want to check the big players in podcast hosting and distribution. These platforms don’t block duplicate names, but if someone is already using it, that’s a red flag.

Search these platforms:

• Spotify for Podcasters

• Apple Podcasts

• Amazon Music

• YouTube

• Pocket Casts

• Overcast

Use exact matches and look for artwork/title similarities.

Step 3 – Check Domain Availability

If you want to build a lasting brand, owning the .com domain version of your name is a big advantage.

Use these tools:

• Namecheap

• GoDaddy

• Instant Domain Search

Even if you don’t build a site immediately, securing the domain can protect your brand and future-proof your growth.

Step 4 – Search the US Trademark Database

To avoid legal headaches, search the USPTO Trademark Database. Trademarks are serious business—especially if you plan to monetize your show.

Here’s how:

1. Go to the TESS (Trademark Electronic Search System).

2. Use Basic Word Mark Search.

3. Search for your podcast name (and similar variants).

4. Look for existing trademarks in related categories (media, education, entertainment).

❗ If you’re unsure, consult a trademark attorney before launching.

Step 5 – Search Social Media Handles

You’ll want matching or consistent handles across platforms like Instagram, Twitter (X), TikTok, and Facebook.

Tools to check availability:

• Namechk

• KnowEm

Try to lock in a consistent handle—even if you’re not active yet. It protects your brand.

What to Do If the Name Is Taken

Don’t panic. You have options:

• Try a variation: Add “Podcast,” “Show,” or “Cast”
  e.g., “The Wellness Word” → “Wellness Wordcast”

• Add a subtitle or tagline:
  e.g., “Exit Velocity: Scaling Startups Faster”

• Include your name or niche:
  e.g., “Startup Spark with Jamie Lin” or “Startup Spark: Female Founders Edition”

Want a Custom Podcast Name?

Instead of racking your brain for a name that isn’t already taken, use our Podcast Name Generator.

It’s designed to suggest brandable, available podcast names that you can run with—without worrying about conflicts or confusion.