As discussed earlier with blogging, anyone capable can start a blog at any time on any topic. Podcasting is just another example of this opportunity that Web 2.0 allows for. A podcast, which comes from the combination of iPod and broadcast, is a series of periodic audio or video files that are uploaded to the internet. People can download podcasts and listen to them on computers, iPods, and even phones. Many are also offered for free on iTunes. By subscribing people can have podcasts automatically downloaded and ready to listen to at any moment. Podcasts generally resemble radio talk shows.
As seen in my earlier Eagles NFC East post, podcasting is a very easy to use, creative, and informative tool for companies or the average person to spread news and any other information, no matter the topic. The benefit of podcasts is that they are a simple, free, and often daily updated source of news that any listener is interested in.
One of my favorite podcasts is the B.S. Report. I discussed Bill Simmons‘ influence on media convergence in sports, and today ESPN’s Simmons is debatably the most followed sports writer in the world. “A free flowing conversation that occasionally touches on mature subjects” the B.S. Report’s topics range from sports to pop culture. Really anything can be included, and that’s what makes the show great. He has topics anyone can be interested, and delivers them in an interesting way. In fact the B.S. Report with Cousin Sal discussing the NFL week 14 and the week 15 betting lines, is currently #1 on iTunes as the most downloaded podcast. Here’s a link to Simmons’ podcast archives for those interested: http://www.grantland.com/podcasts/_/sort/bs-report
The Eagles Nest 