Podcast listed in sync with iPhone doesn't exist

When I sync my iPhone with my Mac (for audiobooks really) I always hit an error because there is a podcast listed on the podcasts tab which does not exist. This podcast dates from the time when podcasts were managed in iTunes. I can't find a database or index of podcasts that will allow me to delete this entry.

MacBook Air 13″, macOS 15.5

Posted on Jun 13, 2025 11:29 AM

Similar questions

Podcasts downloaded but not showing in Downloaded Have a problem with the Downloaded folder. They show as downloaded when I connect iPhone to laptop and also if I look at the podcast it shows as downloaded but not in the folder. If I delete all podcasts and then redownload they show but not first time round. Is it just me?
978 1
Ios 16.4 removes podcasts How can I stop Ios 16.4 automatically deleting downloaded podcasts when Phone and Ipad are powered off? Since updating to Ios 16.4, whenever I power off my Iphone (11) or ipad pro (3rd gen) all my downloaded podcasts get deleted when I switch the device back on. This seems to be a bug in ios 16.4. I usually download podcasts over wifi onto my Macbook and then sync the podcasts onto my Phone and Ipad. The podcasts then appear as Downloaded and can be played. But if I power off my Iphone or Ipad the Downloaded podcasts disappear when I power on again. This did not happen with previous versions of ios. I've tried toggling the podcasts settings: For example, "Remove played downloads", "automatically download", "hide played episodes" are set to off; podcasts get deleted whether "Sync library" and "Download when saving" are on or off.
1709 13
Apple Podcasts app will sometimes delete all my downloaded episodes I'm old school (and just plain old), so the way I manage podcasts is by downloading them in iTunes (on Windows) and then syncing it to my iPhone. Works really well. I like knowing exactly what I have available to listen to. If I finish an episode, I delete it in iTunes, and then it'll be removed from my phone next time I sync it. But I noticed recently that on seemingly random occasions, I'll go the Library -> Downloaded section of the app and it'll be completely empty! If I connect it to iTunes and sync, it'll copy all my episodes over, as if they were never copied over before. I think one time this might have corresponded with an iOS update, but two other times, it just happened over night when no update that I know of was installed. Anyone experience this or know if this is a known bug?
271 1

There are no replies.

This thread has been closed by the system or the community team. You may vote for any posts you find helpful, or search the Community for additional answers.

Podcast listed in sync with iPhone doesn't exist

Welcome to Apple Support Community

A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.

Learn more Sign up