Podcasting Basics

Just as blogging swept the internet in the last few years,
podcasting has become the new internet trend. You can find
podcasts on all types of subjects, ranging from audio blogs, how-
to information, interviews with experts, and more.

Podcasts take their name from the iPod, the popular Mp3 player
created by Apple. As stated above, there are many types of
podcasts to choose from, and it can be hard to give a single
definition that fits all those types. Basically, a podcast is
an audio file created with the intention of communicating some
type of thoughts or information to the public.

Many business podcasts take on the form of a talk radio show.
The website owner may interview guests that have knowledge on
topics their target market is interested in, or the website
owner may do all the talking their self.

You may be wondering about the reasons to start a podcast.
First of all, it is a great way to increase traffic to your
site. People love podcasts and they search podcast directories
and iTunes for new podcasts to listen to. They may stumble upon
yours, without ever knowing your site existed. If they enjoy
your podcast, they will want to check out your site.

You can also use your podcast to promote products and affiliate
links. For example, if you have an information product about
dog breeding, you can talk about it on your podcast. If you are
an affiliate for a dog biscuit manufacturer, you can provide a
review of the product and tell your audience that if they want
more information they can to a page on your site that will
redirect them to your affiliate link with the company.

Not only can podcasts help you attract new customers and
promote your products, they will help you develop relationships
with your customers. When your customer listens to your
podcast, they get to hear your voice and get a snapshot of your
personality. As they hear you talk and present information,
they will come to see you as an expert in your field. You will
become their “go-to person” on the subject you specialize in.

You can further monetize your podcasts by accepting
sponsorships and advertising. For example, you could play an
ad, similar to what you hear on your local radio stations or you
could charge a fee for interviewing someone that wants to
promote their product or service on your podcast.

If you want to try your hand at podcasting, an easy way to get
started is with Audio Acrobat. This is a monthly fee-based
service that allows you to record audio with a computer
microphone or with your telephone. The service allows you to
create streaming audio players that you can post to your site as
well as links that people can click to download your podcast
straight to their computer or Mp3 player.