PODCAST - definition: A podcast is a series of digital media files, either audio or video, that is released episodically and downloaded through web syndication.

Imagine having a legion of followers who were eager to hear your insights and observations in your specialist area. You could imagine what kind of business this may bring in for you as well. This is where the beauty of Podcasts become more apparent.

In this modern age where multimedia rules, Podcasts are still finding a place on many people's iPods. As a source of information, inspiration and entertainment, Podcasts are hard to rival. Technology has changed dramatically over the past two decades and with these advancements have come new, innovative ways in which individuals, organisations and businesses can get that extra edge in their self promotion.

According to figures released by IAB Australia, online advertising expenditure is on track to hit $2 billion this year. Clearly, people are moving more and more towards online forms of marketing than what has ever happened before. E-marketing has seen the birth of electronic newsletters and you’ll rarely find any business without some form of web presence now. Yet, the Podcast is still an area of marketing that remains largely unexplored and, considering its simplicity and low cost, it could help give you that added advantage.

Podcasts Can Offer Information
Find the right podcast and you can get the latest information on your industry and the applications that you use. A quick search on even a keyword like ‘Adobe’ reveals over 30 separate Podcasts dealing with a range of topics as diverse as Creative Suite Video Podcasts through to Flash Tutorials and Layers TV: Everything Adobe.

One highly recommended website that also delivers top quality video podcasts is www.theindesigner.com. Check it out!

Even on the trivial side of life, Podcasts like The Stuff Of Genius has video podcasts covering topics such as The Computer Mouse, Liquid Paper and Video Games.

Podcasts Can Offer Insight
Struggling with a problem or looking for a better way to do things? Or perhaps you just want to look at what other people are doing that strikes you as being innovative and original? Podcasts can show you the answer.

Everything from management techniques through to Best Ads On TV are all available for download as a Podcast.

Podcasts Can Offer Entertainment
Can’t decide what to play in the office? Wouldn’t mind something a little boopy to keep the energy and vibe up? Many DJ’s have one hour plus free DJ sets to download and enjoy in the comfort of your office. This writers personal recommendations: Rock Your Box by DJ Dan Murphy and DJ Murray Hood both have fantastic dance music podcasts that are regularly updated.

Make Your Own Podcast
Making your own podcast is easy, inexpensive and a great way to get yourself out there. All you need is an idea, a microphone and a computer to record on. For some step by step instructions on how to create a podcast, click here or here or watch the Youtube instructional video here. From there, give iTunes your Podcast Feed URL and wait for the fans to roll in.

Review
Over the next few weeks, we’ll be reviewing a Podcast each fortnight along with the usual music releases. If you have a podcast you can recommend or want to put your own into the mix, email us here and we'll give you some love and exposure in future Xpose issues. For those keen to explore finding their own, a Digital Podcast directory might assist you with your search.