Podcasts

It wasn’t that long ago that TV shows were broadcast only. People gathered around at a specific time because broadcasts happened in real time. If you weren’t there on time, you missed the show.

Over time, that all changed with the invention of digital video recorders or DVRs, which made it possible to record or subscribe to your favorite shows and watch them at any time.  

Something similar happened to radio shows, which are also broadcast in real time.

Podcasting made it possible to record or subscribe to a radio style show, and listen to it, like a tv show on a DVR, any time you like.

Most podcasts have a theme, consistent hosts and are organized into episodes that are published on a regular basis.

Free podcasting apps or programs make it easy to subscribe and listen from your device or computer.

When you subscribe to a podcast, new episodes will arrive automatically via an internet connection when they’re published.

Usually, recent episodes will be downloaded to your computer or device for listening offline, but you can also stream most podcasts without downloading the file.

Popular subjects are interview shows, true crime, politics, history, pop culture and more.
Subscribe to a few podcasts and see what you like. It may also help to ask friends for suggestions.

To listen, just open the app, click or tap an episode and take it in. Many people listen to podcasts when they would otherwise listen to music.

Podcasting can turn a commute, road trip or flight into an educational experience. It can make exercise or gardening more interesting and fun. For many, it can be an alternative to a watching a screen.

Many podcasts are advertising or donation supported, which can help make them free to you. To support a podcast you like, rate them on podcast services, tell your friends and consider supporting their sponsors.

Today, you’re likely to find podcasts devoted to almost any hobby or interest you have. The variety is wide and growing, in part, because almost anyone with an idea, computer and internet connection can create and publish a new podcast. Yes, you could be a podcaster.

Podcasting represents a vast, always-on resource that’s free, easy to use and full of education, entertainment and experiences that can be helpful and productive.

The only question is - what will you listen to today?