Podcasting is making audio files (most commonly in MP3 format) available online so that users can automatically download the files to listen whenever they want.

"Podcasting is a way of publishing files to a website that allows users to subscribe to the site and receive new files as they are posted. Most podcasts are spoken word audio created by individuals, often on a particular theme such as technology or movies. Because new files are downloaded automatically by subscribers, podcasting allows individuals to have a self-published, syndicated radio show." (Wikipedia)

Photo credit: LN

Podcasting is a term that derives its name from the iPod, a portable media player manufactured by Apple. The iPod is a small box, about the size of a deck of cards or smaller (depending on the model) that stores and downloads audio files.

The term "podcast" is no longer specifically associated to the iPod as it refers to any combination of software and hardware that allows its users to automatically download and store recorded digital audio files distributed through an RSS feed.

The disruptive power of podcasting stems from all audio broadcasts distributed in a podcast format can be accessed when the user wants it. This also transforms the world of broadcasting (both radio and TV) from one where content was pushed to you at specified times, to a world where you are the puller who can decide what to listen to whenever you wish.

If you are new to podcasting (and you are on a Windows PC), I invite you to download and test the Open Media Network free software. It makes it easy for you to discover all the buzz around podcasting. If you use a Mac, Linux or some other operating system, you can go to the search engines and directories listed in this mini-guide to find and download the content that interests you.

If instead, you are a podcaster or think of becoming one, what I provide here is essentially the most comprehensive list of all search engines and directories where you can go to submit your podcast feed to help other people find you.

By submitting your podcast feed to the greatest number of specialty podcast search engines and directories, you make it easier for other people to find your podcasts, while getting your audio podcast noticed.

Here is a comprehensive roundup of all sites that accept podcast submissions, have podcasts, or both.