By Kirk McElhearn, Richard Giles, Jack Herrington
First Edition
October 2005
Pages: 112
Series: Pocket References
ISBN 10: 0-596-10230-5 |
ISBN 13: 9780596102302
(Average of 1 Customer Reviews)
Whether you're a listener or an aspiring podcaster, Podcasting Pocket Guide is a non-technical guide for the non-geek who wants in on this revolutionary new medium. This handy guide shows you how to tune into unique and interesting podcasts and download them to your favorite portable device and contains an introduction to creating, recording, publishing, and finding an audience for your own, professional-quality podcasts.
Full Description
While podcasts seem like Internet "radio programs," they are definitely not radio. And that's a very good thing for people like you with something to say. Radio waves, after all, are heavily regulated, which means you can't say whatever you want on them (in fact, most of you can't say anything on them, assuming you don't happen to be DJs). But anyone who can make an MP3 recording, host it on a web site, and publish a "feed" for it can be a podcaster. And anyone who wants access to opinions and ideas that you won't get on the radio can find them on a podcast.
Small enough to fit in your pocket, the portable and affordable Podcasting Pocket Guide shows you how to tune into the best podcasts and download them to your favorite portable device so you can listen to them wherever and whenever you want. This handy reference even includes a listener's guide with reviews of some of the most interesting and unusual podcasts available today. From unique views on current events to music you'd never hear otherwise to soundseeing tours that take you all over the world, there's something for everyone on virtually every conceivable topic.
For aspiring podcasters, Podcasting Pocket Guide introduces you to the tools and techniques you'll need to make and publish podcasts with the most basic of equipment: a computer, a microphone, and some free software. It includes practical tips and how-tos for creating, recording, editing, and uploading your own, professional-quality podcast. Once you've made that first recording, you can publish it online, get it listed, and start obsessing over the size of your audience!
Cover | Table of Contents | Index | Sample Excerpt
Featured customer reviews
For the Novice Computer User, January 06 2008
The authors claim that “(t)his pocket guide will help get you started, both as a listener and a podcaster.” That is a claim that is hard to dispute, as the information in the book is very basic. That is my problem with this book. It really is too basic—for me. Readers that are new to computers and/or to internet audio may find this book a helpful starting point.
There a few positive comments I can offer. It is short (actual content is just over 90 pages), so it won’t take you long to read it. It is inexpensive (less than $10, even without the User Group discount) and it will almost fit into your pocket, if you have a large pocket.
There is information for iPod® owners on using iTunes® for various podcasting activities, including finding, subscribing to and downloading podcasts—for those who need assistance with these topics. There is a small section on “Working with Other Podcast Software,” which I did not find helpful.
There are two chapters on creating podcasts. One is (slightly) technical, and the other contains program format recommendations. Again, this information is very, very basic. There is an interesting graphic on page 40. It is called “A Simple Radio Clock for a One Hour Show.” The graphic provides some insight into how professionals plan their radio (and perhaps also their video) programs.
Perhaps the best information in the book is the discussion on audio editing tools, sound recording applications, and fixing common audio problems. I need to emphasize again that this is basic information, but at least, for these topics, helpful information.
There are 30 pages (almost one third of the book) dedicated to a list and description of various podcasts. Someone may find that information useful. I didn’t.
This guide will be useful only to the novice computer user, in my judgment.
Media reviews
"Targeted mostly at listeners who wish to download podcasts onto their computer or iPod using iTunes, it also provides an overview of the production process for those who wish to create and publish their own podcasts."
-- Roxanne O'Connell, Technical Communication
"...a brief and informative introduction to podcasting. You don't need to be a geek to enjoy this book. It will ease you into the interesting business of podcasting in an informative and entertaining manner. Highly recommended."
-- Jan Fagerholm, PCC News
"...any who would use iTunes to download and listen to podcasts will find this a clear, easy way of learning how to access."
-- James Cox, Library Bookwatch
Read all reviews
"...a brief and informative introduction to podcasting. You don't need to be a geek to enjoy this book. It will ease you into the interesting business of podcasting in an informative and entertaining manner. Highly recommended."
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