If you are reading this article, it may be because you have frequently heard the word podcast lately, and someone even recommended you listen to a podcast. However, no matter how much you look it up, you have not been able to come up with a definition that clarifies what a podcast is.
Alternatively, you may already think you know what a podcast is, but you may be surprised if you keep reading.
In any case, we will tell you everything you need to know about what a podcast is.
What does podcast stand for?
For most of the sources consulted, the word podcast comes from mixing the words iPod and Broadcasting.
The term was first coined in 2004 in a Guardian article by journalist Ben Hammersly. This journalist referred to this type of broadcast program as a podcast, alluding to portable audio and music storage devices.
The term podcast comes from Play On Demand Cast or Emission on demand for other sources.
Either way makes sense to us. Although podcasts have evolved enormously from birth until today, they have not stopped being called that way.
All good up to there, but you may wonder: What is a podcast then?
So what is a podcast exactly?
A podcast is, in principle, an audio file, usually an MP3, automatically distributed using RSS technology. This file can be downloaded from the internet and stored on a computer or other device that plays audio.
In general, podcasts are a set of digital audio or video episodes that can sometimes make up seasons, where the listener can subscribe and be aware of what is published in real time.
What are the elements of a podcast?
● More than one episode of audio or video that deals with the same theme or is developed taking into account a specific concept.
● A human voice transmitting content. Podcasts generally have fixed hosts who conduct each episode, but this is not the rule.
● All podcasts are hosted with a podcast RSS feed responsible for distributing the show and its episodes by most podcast directories, such as Apple Podcast, Google Podcast, Spotify, etc.
Are podcasts better than radio?
Although listening to a podcast can be an experience very similar to listening to the radio, below we will tell you precisely what the difference is between both:
● One of the most outstanding characteristics that differentiate podcasts from the radio is that podcasts are broadcasted on-demand; their programs can be listened to when the listener decides. Although there is currently something called on-demand radio, where you can listen online to the programs of each day, later on, the radio is always listened to live.
● Podcasts develop particular topics, while the radio tends to be more general. But, of course, there are always exceptions.
What are the benefits of listening to podcasts?
Indeed you have overheard the term podcast in conversations with friends and the media. But this is only starting. So we will tell you below the advantages of listening to podcasts, and you will understand why they are so popular.
● The best podcasts offer that magic and intimate connection between the program hosts and listeners.
● Podcasts allow listening in the background, enabling you to listen to your best-loved show while doing another task. Tip: try that such activity does not require full attention. For example, you can listen while exercising, walking your pet, cooking, or cleaning the house.
● Podcasts are a handy tool when it comes to learning. If you are curious and thirsty for knowledge, you will probably consider podcasts your preferred way of approaching new subjects. There is a beautiful selection of science podcasts, history podcasts, podcasts to learn new languages, and the list goes on. Even some of the world’s leading universities have their own official podcasts.
We hope everything is clearer for you and all your doubts about podcasting have been resolved before continuing to listen to the best podcasts. Anyhow, the world of podcasting is very dynamic and changes as the needs of digital consumers change.
There is a very particular thrill when it comes to listening to podcasts. Once you try it, you won’t be able to put it down.
Share:
