Introduction to Podcasting
Introduction to Podcasting
A podcast, according to Oxford Dictionary, is a "digital audio file made available on the internet for downloading to a computer or mobile device, typically available as a series, new installments of which can be received by subscribers automatically." This is an apt definition, but anyone who's tried to conceive, produce, record, edit, promote, and publish a podcast knows that a whole lot of work is done before any digital audio files can go live on the internet.
While it is true that anyone can create their own podcast, it is also true that it can take patience for the first timer. Most of us have listened to a podcast and thought, "All you have to do is talk into a microphone with your buddies? And get paid for it? How hard could that be?" but the truth is that there are a lot of skills - be they understanding how to use basic audio recording equipment and software, how to outline and polish scripts, or navigating labyrinthine distribution aggregators - that fledgling podcast producers and performers might not be comfortable with at the outset of their journey.
This guide is intended as a first stop for new podcasters interested in beginning that journey. Think of it as a roadmap to achieving the basic skills needed to turn an idea for a podcast into the Oxford Dictionary definition of one.
The First Steps
Podcasting has become popular in the 21st century. Content creators from large media organizations to teenagers (and younger children) record and edit audio and post it, and their audiences may be millions to single digit numbers of listeners.
Podcasting requires one:
Write a script and plan the content.
Record the episode.
Edit it.
Disseminate it.
At GCC, the Teaching and Learning Innovation Center supports the creation of podcasts (and video podcasts) by students, faculty, and staff.
Preparing Your Podcasting
A good podcast requires the participants prepare a script, rehearse a little, and plan for music or other audio for the introduction, transitions, and the exist.
Keeping Your Files
One of the most challenging aspects of podcasting can be keeping your files organized. Many podcasters find it works best to create a folder on their computer (or on Google Drive). Scripts, audio, the final .mp3, and other files can be kept there to make it easier to manage what you need.
Writing Your Script
A good script will include the information you want to present and cues for when different participants speak. Even if the podcast is going to be done in an interview format, it is best to include cues the interviewee will give that they are done with their answer. This prevents multiple participants speaking at the same time which distracts listeners.
Once your script is complete, it is a good idea to read it aloud. Some combinations of words can be difficult to say, and those combinations can only be identified (and edited) by reading aloud.
Music
Both GarageBand and Audacity allow for multi-track audio files to be crated, so podcasters can add music to the introduction, during transitions, or as exit audio. Podcaster should plan to download music or other audio from a site where files are licensed under Creative Commons licenses or to record their own files. To ensure easy integration into either GarageBand or Audacity download .mp3 files.
ccMixer is a site where podcasters can find downloadable .mp3 files that are licensed by Creative Commons.
The Free Music Archive is another.
Podcasting at GCC
The Teaching and Learning Innovation Center maintains a podcasting studio in S308. TLICenter staff are available to show students how to record and save files in the studio as well as how to edit a podcast using GarageBand or Audacity.
Scheduling the Podcasting Studio
We are selecting a scheduling tool, but until then please email TLIC staff to schedule the podcasting studio.