Podcasts are digital audio files users download via a host website to any media player, such as a laptop or smart phone. What separates a podcast from a regular audio file is the ability to subscribe. Sites that host podcasts produce subscription feeds known as RSS (Really Simple Syndication) feeds. RSS feeds allow users to subscribe to a podcast so that they automatically get a download as the podcast becomes available. Podcasts are also available on demand, no subscription necessary.
Podcasts were developed by Adam Curry, a former MTV video jockey, and software developer Dave Winer. They created a program called iPodder that enabled them to automatically download Internet radio broadcasts to their iPods. The term "podcast" is a combination of the words iPod (a personal digital audio player made by Apple) and broadcasting.
Podcasting is free from government regulation. Podcasters don't need to buy a license to broadcast their programming and they don't need to conform to the Federal Communication Commission's (FCC) broadcast decency regulations. This means that the longevity and content of the podcast is entirely determined by the podcaster. However, copyright law does apply.
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This LibGuide is intended for the adult audience (expected 18 years old and up as the podcast content on this Popular Podcast tab is not monitored for language or content) interested in starting a podcast, especially those with little to no prior knowledge of podcasts. While there is a focus on resources available at the University of North Carolina, at Chapel Hill, most resources are accessible through the internet. Current students, faculty, or staff at UNC Chapel Hill will find this guide highly relevant as there is a section designated for UNC resources and the lesson plan is built around orientation of the on-campus Podcast Studio. Podcasts are becoming more popular every year which means there is a vast amount of podcast related material available. Hopefully this guide provides a lay of the land and empowers users to explore the wide world of podcasting, whether it be casually or professionally.
While this LibGuide is targeted at beginners, podcast making requires a certain level of hardware and software. The materials presented in this guide are aimed to assist those with personal access to hardware that has the ability to download open source software and record audio. Owners of computers, smartphones, or tablets will find all information presented here useful. I have tried to provide resources that make podcasting inexpensive and accessible, but many resources do also present further equipment or software for the interested user.
Podcasting started at the beginning of the millennium, therefore all resources are recent. Due to the rate technology updates, most material here is from the past five years. This may mean that in a few more years this LibGuide will not be as relevant and will need updating. All resources provided are in English and most are accessible online. Materials consulted include websites, other LibGuides, videos, and books.