Podcasts - Take Your iPod to the Next Level

 

If you're lucky enough to own an iPod, or any mp3 player for that matter, then you know just how fun they can be. The idea of converting your CDs into mp3 files and being able to listen to them wherever you go is exciting to say the least.

The fun doesn't have to stop there though. The development of the iPod has opened up a world of other interesting opportunities, podcasts among them. Podcasts, by definition, have actually been around for a while; but the name, which is a combination of "iPod" and "broadcast", came about due to its perfect fit with the iPod.

A podcast is an audio or video program that lives on the Internet and can be downloaded to your computer as an mp3 file. This could include everything from your favorite radio show to a recording of a garage band's latest gig. Now that you know more about it, let's examine a few websites where you can find some great podcasts:

iTunes.com - With over 2 million songs available for purchase, Apple's iTunes is the place to go to download music. In addition, it houses over 30,000 podcasts including content from CNN, ESPN, and NPR, to name a few. iTunes offers 20 categories of podcasts to choose from, and they provide overviews of the content to help you narrow down which podcasts would appeal to you. The best part is that all of the podcasts are free! Once you've installed iTunes software on your computer, you can log onto their website and subscribe to as many as you like. Whenever you place your iPod in its docking station, your podcasts are automatically updated through Apple's syncing process.

PodcastingNews.com - As the name suggests, this website not only contains podcasts, it also reports on the latest podcasting news. With articles ranging from how colleges are encouraging professors to podcast their lectures to coverage of music industry issues, this site will keep you informed of the latest developments in the podcasting arena. In addition, you'll obtain access to dozens of podcasts that will entertain and even educate you. Would you believe that you can learn a foreign language through podcasts? Download your lesson today!

Ipodder.org - This website was created by one of podcasting's founding fathers, Adam Curry. It's a bit unusual and probably appeals slightly more to those who are technically inclined. Ipodder's directory contains over 70 categories of podcasts to choose from. Simply download Ipodder's software, and you're ready to start subscribing to any number of podcasts!

If you own an iPod or another type of mp3 player, you'll want to give podcasts a try. You're sure to find several exciting ones that will capture your interest and teach you something along the way.

Do you know of any great podcasts? If so, give me a call. I'd love to hear about them!

 

Karl Peidl
Superior Mortgage Corp
Augusta Professional Center 854 S White Horse Pike
Hammonton, NJ 08037

800-706-6671 ext 4349

kpeidl@supmort.com

www.karlpeidlsmc.com