MLA Podcast Citations
Learn to cite podcasts, podcast episodes, and audio content in MLA format with detailed examples and best practices.
Basic Podcast Format
MLA format for podcasts follows the general template for digital sources, emphasizing the host, title, and publication details.
MLA Podcast Citation Format:
Podcast Episodes
When citing individual podcast episodes, include the episode title in quotation marks and the podcast series title in italics.
Example:
In-text citation: (Koenig)
Elements:
- Host: Sarah Koenig
- Episode title: "The Alibi" (in quotes)
- Podcast title: Serial (italicized)
- Publisher: Chicago Public Media
- Date: 3 Oct. 2014
- URL: serialpodcast.org/season-one/1/the-alibi
Podcast Interviews
For podcast interviews, you may start with either the interviewer or interviewee, depending on your focus.
Example (Focus on Interviewee):
Example (Focus on Interviewer):
Podcast Series
When citing an entire podcast series rather than a specific episode, omit the episode title.
Example:
Note: Use "1995-present" for ongoing series or specific date ranges for completed series.
Podcasts on Streaming Platforms
When accessing podcasts through platforms like Spotify or Apple Podcasts, include the platform name.
Example:
Key Citation Elements
Required Elements:
- • Host or creator name
- • Episode title (if applicable)
- • Podcast series title
- • Publisher or network
- • Publication date
- • URL or platform
Optional Elements:
- • Episode number
- • Season number
- • Guest names
- • Duration
- • Access date (if required)
Best Practices
MLA Podcast Citation Tips:
- URLs: Use the most direct URL to the specific episode when possible
- Dates: Use the publication date of the episode, not the access date
- Multiple Hosts: List the primary host first, or use "et al." for three or more
- No Host Listed: Begin with the episode or series title
- Transcripts: If citing a transcript, note this in your citation