Podcasting for Dummies

What's stopping you from starting your own show?

Source: Inspiration Feed

I love podcasting.

What exactly is a podcast you may ask? If you had asked Jeeves, you'd likely end up with a similar result as this:

Podcast: A digital audio file made available on the Internet for downloading to a computer or mobile device, typically available as a series, new installments of which can be received by subscribers automatically.

Now I could use this blog to explain to you how to make an awesome podcast - like The Nostalgia Trip, not that I'm biased - but Popular Mechanics took care of that pretty well in their own article which you can read here.

Instead, I'd like to talk about why I believe podcasting can be a great hobby, especially for those with an interest in niche markets or polarizing issues.

Since the term was first coined in the early 2000's, podcasting has quickly become a common hobby for many tech savvy individuals. The ability to independently produce and distribute media has made this an easy outlet for people wanting to have their voice heard. To put it more colourfully, this gives the preacher his or her own pulpit.

Podcasting is inexpensive and in time it can pay for itself.    Source: Inspiration Feed

However, often forgotten is the fact that these podcasts are created by "normal" everyday people like you and me. While big media corporations such as Fox Sports produce regular programming in podcast form, the field is largely dominated by independent producers working from home in their spare time.

In this day and age, any bozo can invest money into some gear and - provided they have quality content - gain a following on the internet. In many cases revenue can be generated from these shows, though the amount raised varies depending on your media's reach and traffic.

This means that there is a clear incentive for people to voice their opinions and make a show about something they are passionate about. Whether you're into cooking, fashion, sports or video games, a podcast suited to your interests is out there waiting for you to listen.

So why do I believe this can be a good hobby for the average Joe and/or Josephine?

Simply put, it allows you to be creative and expressive in a way that appeals to your interests. It also allows you to build relationships and network with like-minded individuals across the globe. The knowledge that can be exchanged via these programs is incredible, which can enlighten you on a subject you already felt well versed in.

Even if producing a show isn't your cup of tea, there is somebody out there who has already made a show that you'll love. This means you can enjoy a workout at the gym or a long commute to work in a different way. Instead of listening to the commercials on the radio, skip the commercials during the intro of your podcast and enjoy the content that follows!

What does this mean for traditional journalism? I can't say for sure. Easy accessibility to podcasting resources is very exciting, but I can't help but feel that there is much content being produced and consumed that doesn't deserve to see the light of day. In the event this content continues it's rise in popularity, dangers exist that popular opinions will override fact. This can muddy the already unclear waters of sensitive issues, whatever they may be.

CBC's Jane Adey, current host of The Broadcast, the longest running current affairs radio show in North America, visited my journalism class a few months back and gave us a great tip. Never forget the K.I.S.S. rule - and no, I'm not talking about the band. Here it is, free of charge:

Keep
It
Simple
Stupid

So what's stopping you from producing the next great podcast? Who knows, you could end up with a hefty sponsorship deal for all your hard work.