You may have recently heard your friends or family members talking about their favorite podcasts, but you might still have no idea what they are. As they increase in popularity, you are sure to hear more about them, and it is probably time that you get some information as to what these are. If you want to learn more about podcasts, read on below.
A podcast is similar to a radio program, but it is a digital audio file that is recorded through a computer or other audio system and then made available online. Many radio shows have podcast versions of their programs, but a lot of new programs have popped up as well. Podcasts are available as series, with subscribers able to download the latest installments as they are released by the developer.
Advantages over radio programs
While some programs may be similar in nature to radio, podcasts have many advantages. First of all, you don’t need to be in an area that has signal. You can download your podcast for later listening at any time. You are also able to stop at a certain point and start back up whenever is best for you. On most podcasts, you can even fast forward through advertisements – something you can’t do on the radio.
Because you can listen when and where you want, you gain the advantage of being able to listen to an entire series without having to tune in at a particular time. Think of a podcast like the Netflix or DVR version of radio – you can download and decide when you want to listen. This is why so many popular former radio voices have started their own podcasts. They have found that there is a wider audience to reach and that they have more control over the production value and quality of their programming.