podStation

podStation is an open-source podcast aggregator distributed as a browser extension for Chrome and compatible Chromium-based browsers. It enables users to search for podcasts through podcastindex.org, iTunes, and Digital Podcast, subscribe to shows, and manage episode playback directly within the browser rather than through a standalone application. The project is maintained as a free/libre and open-source software (FLOSS) initiative on GitHub.

The extension provides core aggregator functionality including playlist creation, episode playback, and subscription management, along with OPML import and export for moving subscription lists between tools. Chrome sync support allows podcast lists, listening progress, and settings to carry over across devices signed into the same Chrome account. It also includes experimental value-for-value payment support, letting users send Bitcoin payments over the Lightning Network to compatible podcasts using LND nodes or LNPay.

podStation serves individual podcast listeners who prefer consuming audio content within their browser rather than installing a separate desktop or mobile app, particularly those switching between work and home computers. The project has faced sustainability challenges following Chrome's Manifest V3 transition, with the maintainer indicating in 2024 that continued operation of the extension was uncertain due to required API updates not being completed in time. Development has been driven primarily by a single volunteer contributor, with the codebase hosted publicly under the MIT License.