Some people have a hard time typing or writing their thoughts into their blogs. However, these same people have no problem talking their mind. These are the people that might do well podcasting.
According to Wikipedia, podcasting is:
Podcasting a series of digital media files (either audio or video) that are released episodically and downloaded through web syndication.
If you have a simple microphone, and a recording device, you can podcast. You can podcast all your blog posts instead of writing, or mix up your posts with your podcast recordings. Of course, those who want to have a more professional sound, you will have to invest in great sound equipment, but for those starting out, you might want to try something like Audacity.
I have used the program and it really does a great job for a free and open source audio program. These days, it is really easy to implement audio files into blogs.
Podcasting is a way that makes your website have more depth. While your visitors might not see your face, they can hear you. They can surf the web, while keeping your site open in another browser window and listening to you. You can talk about anything you want your listeners to hear. You can even have your podcasts be downloaded and listened to on phones! Some sites you might consider sharing your podcasts at, in order to gain more visitors/ listeners:
NPR.org – National Public Radio
Podcast Alley
Podcast Pickle
Podcast Directory
Digital Podcast
iTunes
Blog Talk Radio
Have you tried podcasting? What tools do you use? What kind of topics do you podcast about?
Hi, Nile! You’ve hit upon one of my goals for 2012! I highly recommend Cliff Ravenscraft, the Podcast Answer Man, as a way to learn the basics of podcasting. He has a free video tutorial that can help anyone get started. I’m going to be saving for my first materials, and the only thing missing now is a deadline for myself to get started 🙂
As a blogger or small business person, being everywhere on the net is imperative, and podcasting will increase your reach for your brand.
I’ve been thinking about podcasting. The only problem is I don’t like the sound of my voice, so it’s a little scary to me. I’ll keep your suggestion about Audacity in mind. Thanks.
I have not tried podcasting yet, but it is on my to do list for 2012. It is very interesting to me and you have made is simple to do.
Thanks!
Donna
I believe that pod casting is a very wonderful tool to use. Since it uses video and some media file that is quite very effective in pushing your idea and promote your product line. I still don’t know how to use it but am planning to use it first week of January.
Hi Niles, aside from Audacity, is there any other option that we can use?
I have done screencast, but not podcast. I guess one needs a professional sounding ‘western’ accent to be successful at it. I don’t have it!
If you are a big business or corporation starting a podcast (or if your podcast has gotten extremely popular), then you may want a dedicated server for hosting your files. This means you rent your own internet-grade computer that is dedicated to hosting just your media. It is Good post and a nice read for people searching good articles.
Movable Type and WordPress are good for many podcasters, because they offer best support for podcasting, more power and flexibility to the bloggers.
I always wanted to be a DJ when I was a kid. And with the emergence of new tools which can make me become one (in my own right) is awesome! I already bought an m-audio interface and is now making plans to “air” early next year. I always wanted it to be free so your list is very valuable. I will be checking it out. Thanks again!
Appreciating the hard work you put into your website and detailed information you provide. It’s great to come across a blog every once in a while that isn’t the same outdated rehashed material. Fantastic read! I’ve bookmarked your site and I’m adding your RSS feeds to my Google account.
I spend WAY too much time listening to podcasts… Anyway I’ve been a fan and advocate of podcasting since essentially its inception. It’s not for everyone (creating one), but it will create life-long fans if you’ve got the chops!
This is what of my goals as well… I have a few things to work out and of course the technical aspect is stopping me a little…I love that you gave such great tips and that it seems really simple to put use. I will check out “Audacity” and get things rolling I think… Thank you Nile!
I love Podcasts. I always supplement whatever college courses that I am taking with podcast from a variety of different places. It is extremely beneficial for learning. Whats even better is that SO many of the are free which is a huge benefit for those of us on a budget.
It’s great to come across a blog every once in a while that isn’t the same outdated rehashed material..Great article…
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It’s been almost five months since I read this article, yet I am convinced as ever that I need to start a podcast! I recently saw a demonstration in which the speaker asked how many people read a tweet. Most people raised their hands. How long does it take? Five seconds. Reading a blog post? 3-5 minutes. Listening to a podcast? 30, 45, or even 60 minutes. Talk about a long time to hold a willing audience captive!