There is a list of tools you will absolutely need in order to create a successful podcast. The first podcasting tool you will need is of course a computer. The second most important tool is a microphone. Without these it's virtually impossible to record a podcast for online distribution. You can also record podcasts using the Apple iPod and the Griffin iTalk microphone, but you will still need a computer to get the podcast from your iPod to your website for distribution. Without a computer and some sort of recording device, you will not be able to create a single podcast.
Finally, you will need an MP3 recording / editing program to edit your podcast for mistakes, record voice overs to fix your mistakes, or to record your podcasts using a simple microphone. If you perform a Google search for "audacity" you'll find a free program that is used by many successful podcasters to create their broadcasts. These are all you'll need to create your podcasts. Once your podcasts are created, you will need hosting so that you van distribute your completed podcasts. Whether you distribute it from your website, via iTunes or RSS feed, your listeners will have to have somewhere to download your podcasts from.
These are the absolute basics you will need to start podcasting. A few tools that are not needed, but that would be helpful and present a more professional image would be an RSS reader that you can provide to listeners who do not use MP3 players. The RSS reader will allow you to distribute your podcasts via RSS feeds so that your listeners can listen to your podcasts on their computer. Delivering your podcasts in your RSS feed is also a good way to keep listeners informed about new podcasts.
If you would like to provide the capability for others to listen to your podcasts from your website, then a streaming jukebox podcast player would be a beneficial tool. A streaming jukebox will let you stream your podcasts in MP3 format, so that listeners can listen to your podcasts quickly without a large download. Because it streams your MP3 files, the beginning of the file will start playing as the rest of the file streams to your computer. This saves a lot of time because your listeners will not have to download the whole podcast file. They can listen and enjoy to their hearts content direct from your website.
A wonderful, free method of sharing your podcasts would be to use iTunes. iTunes is a program provided by Apple computers for iPod users, but you do not have to have an iPod to use iTunes. Not only can you distribute your podcast using iTunes but you can also subscribe to other podcasts that may be of interest to you.
Now, another tool (well not actually a tool but more of a recommendation) to have is a good friend. A good friend will give you honest feedback about your podcast, and sometimes honesty can really save you quite a bit of embarrassment. A friend will let you know if he or she feels that your introduction is too sappy, or if your podcast seems to be too long. Take whatever criticism is offered with a smile, and ponder it carefully. Once you think about it for a day or two, you may find that your friend is right.
If you would like to learn more about podcasting, then The Wonderful World Of Podcasting will teach you everything you to know to become a Pod Person! Visit eBooka.com to learn more about creating podcasts as well as how to successfully add your podcasts to your website.