Badge: Podcast Explorer

Podcasts are a great way to learn something new or be entertained. You can listen to them on the go via applications like Stitcher or download them for when you don’t have Internet access.

Steps

1. Podcast.

A podcast is a digital audio or video clip in a radio-style talk. The subject can be about almost anything. They are often referred to as a “series” as they are normally based on a single subject. A podcast might be one person talking, a group of people talking, interviews, etc. So, it’s free (usually), original and interesting content that you can listen to on any device that plays the files. Do you have something that can play a podcast? It might be your phone, an MP3 player or your computer with audio capabilities.

2. Creators.

Anyone can create a podcast. Most are people who are interested in a subject and are willing to share their ideas and content. Unlike radio and broadcasting, there are no regulations. So, you have normal people creating shows they want to hear. As you explore podcasts, pay attention to the people who are creating them.

3. Plan first.

Make a list of your interests. Why? There are so many podcasts out there that you can spend a lot of time just looking through them. For your first few times out, try to limit your searches. You’re sure to find plenty for your listening pleasure.

4. Size.

Some podcasts can be extremely large. This is especially true of video podcasts. Make sure you have enough space to hold the podcasts if you are downloading. Explore applications like “Stitcher” that allow you to listen to them on the fly so you don’t have to store them.

5. Tracking.

Most people probably do not do this, but I track my podcasts. With writing badge programs, I often want to refer to material I’ve read or listened to — including podcasts. By keeping a list and a brief explanation, it allows me to go back and listen again for clarification. Would tracking your listening help you? If so, plan to do it before you start listening.

Start the Search

6. iTunes.

Apple makes it easy for listeners to access podcasts through iTunes. If you have an Apple device, go to the “App Store” and start looking through the podcasts. Notice that they are divided into categories to help you identify your interests. You will need to “subscribe” to a podcast for iTunes to check for new episodes.

7. No iTunes.

Don’t use iTunes? Don’t worry. There are many places you can go to access podcasts. With the equipment you own, determine how you can listen to podcasts. Check out your choices and decide on one.

8. Host.

The variety of podcasts allows you to discover a host or hosts that you feel comfortable with. Some may use language you don’t like. Some may delve deep where you just want the basics. It could even be that the host’s voice grates on your nerves. Listen to a podcast and determine if you like the host and the way they present material. If not, try again.

9. Schedule.

Podcasts can be released daily, weekly, monthly or even randomly. iTunes will automatically download the new content for you. Alternatively, you may need to subscribe to a podcast’s RSS or email service to be notified of new content.

10. Stitcher.

www.stitcher.com

Stitcher allows you to listen to over 65,000 radio shows and podcasts on demand. It is available for multiple devices. There are other applications that do the job well. The last link in the list below will help you identify a few to try out.

11. Share.

Share the podcasts you enjoy with others who have similar interests. To start you out, I’ve included a list of my current favorite podcasts in the supplements below.

Supplements

SUPP_Podcast Explorer_2in_12up_larajla

Avery 2” round label printable, 12 up

SUPP_Podcast Explorer_Checklist_larajla

Badge checklist

SUPP_Podcast Explorer_My Suggestions_larajla

Podcast suggestions

Sites to Explore

Get the infographic here > larajla blog post

Get the PDFs of the badge program / supplements here > Full badge PDFs