What is a Podcast?

A Podcast is an audio file that can be listened to on a computer or downloaded to an iPod or MP3 player. It is generally a one-topic conversation, often in a talk show format, that is a downloadable audio file. The benefit of listening to a Podcast is that you can listen to it at a time of your choosing, not only when it is originally posted — such as would happen with a radio broadcast.

Podcasts can be about anything at all; it is an opportunity to share information and thoughts with the public. The Podcasts on Podcast Village will center on disaster response, relief and other social justice topics.

Podcasts can be listened to on a computer that has a sound card. Just click on the Podcast you wish to hear and adjust the sound on your computer. (You do not need an iPod or other MP3 player to publish or receive Podcasts.)

A single Podcast can be downloaded to a suitable player to listen to while on the go or at a time of your choosing. If you don't want to automatically download an MP3 Podcast, you can grab an MP3 file directly and listen. Or, you can subscribe to a Podcast and get the newest episodes delivered right to you as soon as they are available.

The download occurs through a media aggregator which provides a consolidated view of the content in a single browser display or desktop application. By subscribing to RSS feed, an aggregator, such as iTunes, Juice or comparable software, reduces the time and effort needed to regularly check web sites of interest for updates and can automatically download content to your machine.

Click on the orange "RSS" button on the left to get started.