21. Find and listen to a Podcast or two

What is a podcast?

The word "podcast" comes from joining Portable On Demand (pod, like iPod) and "cast" from broadcast. Get it? Podcast!

A podcast is a series of digital media files (eg. audio or video) that are distributed over the internet using syndication feeds (like RSS) and can be played on portable media players (eg. MP3s) or a personal computer.

Podcasting means that listeners can "time shift" their favourite programs by listening when it suits them. They give you the ability to "subscribe" to a feed using a feed aggregator (such as Google Reader), and receiving an alert when a new episode becomes available. You can then choose to listen to an episode at your convenience!

You can also download or stream programs without subscribing and listen to them on your computer. Most media providers have a direct download link somewhere on their podcasts page.

Your task

Find a podcast that interests you using Google, or the Podcast Directory links in the Resources section below.
Subscribe to it in your feed reader and listen to a media file or two.

Resources

Podcast.com - directory of podcasts covering a variety of subjects
PodcastAlley.com - podcasting resource and directory of podcasts
Podcast Directory - directory of podcasts covering a variety of subjects
PodShow.com - access to music, videos and episodes
Aunty ABC - podcasts of shows from the national broadcaster
The Education Podcast Network - what, why, and how of 21st century teaching & learning

Video Podcasting

You may even wish to catch up on your favourite television shows by subscribing to a video podcast. It works in the same way as an audio podcast. You shouldn't need to download any special software - most computers will have Windows Media Player installed to watch them on.

Optional resources (Here are optional resources for those who want to learn how to be a podcaster)