What+Is+A+Podcast?

=What is a Podcast?=

A podcast is a collection of audio files in MP3 format that are created in a computer and then uploaded to a Web server. Podcasting is simply the idea of creating an MP3 audio file that can be downloaded to a digital device so that you can listen to the program -- a song, a lecture, an interview, a rant, whatever -- at a time and in a place of your own choosing. A simple audio file linked to a web page is not a podcast. The ability to subscibe to a feed is what separates this from a podcast.

Podcasts are possible because of RSS, or "Really Simple Syndication," technology that is commonly used to send text news feeds to Web sites. The difference between podcasts and a simple audio file is that they are MP3 files stored on a web server that have been linked via an RSS feed so that anyone who wants to subscribe to them can do so by entering the address to the RSS file into their RSS Feed Readers.

While MP3 music and speech files have been offered over the Internet for several years, podcasting makes it simple for individuals to record and upload their own programs. Furthermore, by installing one of the many free products that access podcasts, such as iPodder or iTunes, users can subscribe to specific programs that download automatically as they are produced, without visiting Web sites. The recorded content can then be heard through players including Windows Media Player, RealPlayer or iTunes, which also set up playlists for repeated use. It can be transferred to an MP3 player such as an iPod.

Sites that once offered blogs and RSS feeds now also provide RSS feeds with audio attachments (podcasts).

Podcasting offers educators and students remarkable opportunities for their voices to be heard in their local communities or the around world. One could think of podcasting as blogging without writing or as a way for every class to have its own radio station.



Cons:
>
 * Many people don’t have a hell of a lot to say and those who do often don’t have the wherewithal to say it in a form interesting enough to engage an audience
 * Podcast feeds that contain material that most people would be interested in listening to are sorely lacking.
 * Have something interesting to say. Don't just talk about yourself as it may not interest anyone.

Advice for creating decent Podcasts

 * **Treat it like radio.** Radio that works has something to say, makes its point clearly and concisely, and offers elements other than your voice (music, for example) to entertain the listener.
 * **Gear up.** Record your podcast using decent equipments. Your computer is capable of recording high-quality audio when used with a decent microphone.
 * **Edit.** Take a few moments to cut out the flab with an audio editing application.
 * **Test.** Strap on a thicker skin and play your podcast for someone who will give you an honest assessment of the content and its delivery. Learn from your mistakes.
 * **Study Other Good Podcasts.** Take a few moments to listen to other podcasts, to pick up some good ideas. Some decent podcasts here: [|http://www.podcastbunker.com/.]
 * **Quality**. Make sure that your record and broadcast in high quality audio. No lower than 96 kpbs/44kzh; but 128kpbs/44kzh is preferred for high quality.
 * **Content**. Ensure that the content is interesting.
 * Popping 'P's. Prevent these by having a good microphone placement, and turning your head slightly or by using Pop filters.