 |
 |
 |
|
 |
|
| Thinking of starting your own podcast? |
| It's easier than ever to start your own podcast - and you don't have to spend a lot on expensive equipment either. Besides a computer with enough memory to handle sound editing, you'll need a microphone and some editing software - some of which is absolutely free - as well as some webspace to store the audio. |
|
Like any new hobby, it's always good to know there's a source of help available when you need it. Podcasting is no exception, and luckily there's a wealth of information on the Internet. And if there's something you can't find, there's also a wealth of friendly people to help you.
|
| Resources for Beginners | |
| Advice | Britcaster - a forum where anyone - not just Brits - can discuss everything podcast-related. New members are welcome, and no question is too obvious to be asked and answered. |
| News | Podcast User Magazine - A monthly magazine that you can download for free in pdf format. It carries advice and experiences of other podcasters, as well as reviews of hardware, software and podcasts themselves. |
| Blogging | Blogger - An easy way to start your own blog. Once that's up and running, you're only a couple of steps away from a feed that will push your podcasts out to the globe! |
| Storage | Libsyn - A cheap but effective way of storing your audio files. Libsyn is trusted by many podcasters - they're used by CLP and everything has always run like clockwork. |
| Editing | Audacity - Audacity is a free program that you can use to edit sound files. You'll find it quite easy to use, and reliable too. |
| Recording | Logitech USB Microphone - not the best sound quality in the world, but people WILL listen if you're putting the effort in to produce great content. Remember this is not studio-quality radio! A cheap way of getting started - some people even podcast using their mobile phones... |
Podcastable Music |
Tempted to play Justin Timberlake's latest track on your podcast? A word of advice - don't! You could be in a lot of trouble if you're playing commercial tracks without a suitable license. 'Podsafe' music is music by artists who usually don't have a record deal, and who would like to gain exposure by being played on podcasts. It's best to check that artists' work is original, and that they give you permission to play it. MySpace is a good way to contact singers and bands, while the Podsafe Music Network gives you a huge catalogue of ready-to-go Podsafe tracks. |