ABSTRACT
This chapter offers a collection of best practices for media scholars and educators who may be considering starting a podcast. Based on a survey of scholars and researchers recording and producing their own podcasts, it aims to synthesize their responses into advice for those interested in participating in this growing medium. Launching a podcast involves a significant amount of planning. The appeal of podcasting as a communication form is simple: entree to eager listening audiences, unrestricted runtimes, and low production barriers. Nevertheless, podcasting offers media scholars and educators in particular new ways to share their work and insights. Beyond planning, podcasting requires not only access to audio and editing equipment, but also a degree of technical skill. Respondents listed a wide range of valuable recording equipment, from specialized professional microphones and recording decks to cheaper USB microphones. Finding a clear concept and then establishing a consistent and comfortable voice is important for relating to audiences.
