Podcasting

About Podcasting

Podcasts are recorded content available to stream or download. Many are available free via iTunes.

Anyone can create a podcast and submit to iTunes (pending approval).

Most are audio, but some are video, i.e. “vlogs” or video podcasts.

What does this mean for the radio industry? How are traditional networks such as NPR using podcasts?

Podcasting Growth

Increasing in use: 19% of I-net users have downloaded a podcast

Ownership of MP3 players and iPods increasing (integration with other mobile devices, cell phones, cars).

Average podcast user is Male, under 50, college-educated (but this audience is growing and diversifying)

Increasing in other demos: Podcast users ages18-29 doubled between 2006-2008

Podcast Content

Often uses a “talk show” format

Can be designed for very specific, niche audiences

Can use explicit content

Cannot use music, etc. without permission or payment

Popular Podcasts

Often use a “talk show” approach

Although many are created by amateurs, entertainers are finding a new way to reach audiences and build their personal brand.

Podcast host & comedian Marc Maron is often referred to as “The Podfather”

(FYI his content is explicit)

Podcast Networks

Podcast networks offer a variety of content and talent under the same brand umbrella. Many have sponsors (ads), or offer “premium content” without ads for paid subscribers.

Director Kevin Smith and Web Soup host Chris Hardwick run successful podcast networks. (FYI their content is explicit)

Podcasting Production101

Podcasting is easy and inexpensive to create. Other costs are associated with content hosting and servers.

You can use free software e.g. Audacity, and either a built-in microphone or external (Blue Snowball).

Podcast Distribution

You can make your podcast available through iTunes or other sites like Soundcloud, which will also let you record audio content.

Ways to make your podcast available: Embed in blog ITunes Subscriptions

Podcasting for PR

Brands and organizations are using podcasts as a tactic in their PR efforts

To create compelling audio content, use best practices developed by folks in the PR field.

Podcasts for PR Folks

PRStudChat

Trafcom News

Inside PR

Grammar Girl