How to transfer MP4 files to iphone podcast app

After several hours trying all the solutions an excellent tech support person could think of, we both conceded defeat for the day. The next morning, I tried again and was successful!!!!

The approach I used:

1) opened ITunes

2) plugged in my phone

3) SELECTED the Phone using phone button on the top below the dropdown menus. THIS IS KEY.

4) Clicked on the Podcast selection under my phone, Not under Library.

5) Clicked, File, Add File to Library...

6) Selected all the MP4 files I wanted in the Open file dialog (I did 165 one time, 122 another)

7) Clicked Open on the dialog. Dialog closes and iTunes processed the list

8) Clicked Sync at the bottom. THIS STEP IS A MUST.

The files are then copied to the phone and appears on the phone in Apple's Podcast app. tHEY DO NOT APPEAR IN THE ITUNES LIBRARY. that is ok.