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Podcasting Resources and Audio Storytelling: Podcast Basics

This guide provides resources and information to assist with finding sound, sources, archival and contemporary, to help you create a podcast. Understand principles of Fair Use and locate sources in the Public Domain.

Podcasting header

Essential definitions

What is a podcast?
A Podcast is as per the Cambridge Dictionary is “a broadcast that is placed on the Internet for anyone who wants to listen to it or watch it:” (Cambridge Dictionary). Think of it as a series recorded radio show episodes (although some podcasts also include video elements), posted on the Internet that you can download or stream. Unlike the radio you do not have to listen at a specific time, you can start or stop listening to any available episode whenever you want. Episodes are released on a schedule unique to each podcast. Some release one episode every month while others release five or more a day.

What is Audio Storytelling?
Audio storytelling at its most basic core is the practice of using audio-based tools to tell stories. It all revolves around the idea of combining the art of telling stories with a variety of audio clips. As with traditional storytelling, most digital stories focus on a specific topic and contain a particular point of view.
Purpose and Audience

  • Who's attention do you want to grab?
  • What do you want your audience to know? 
  • Why do they need to know it? Why is an audio story the best medium to use?
  • Where will they hear your audio story?
  • When do they need the information you are giving them?

Answers to these and other questions will help you develop your project from an idea to an audio podcast you'll be excited to share.