My second time today learning from presenters Giordana Caputo – CEO of the Community Media Training Organisation (CMTO) – and Emma Couch – National Training Manager at the CMTO. This time, they’re offering insights into the methods and means of producing podcasts. A hurdle to the less technologically savvy amongst us, the importance of digital and internet programs and broadcasting can not be understated in the internet age.
Citing examples of other podcasts, such as The Runners’ Guide, Giordana and Emma explained to use the steps required to create podcasting content and begin the podcast. Gear (namely, equipment) is listed as being a computer, a recording device (a smartphone works), a microphone; evidently, not much is required when compared to live radio broadcasting.
This particular session has proven to be particularly practical in nature, rather than theoretical; a welcome alternative to create balance in materials. We were given suggestions for multiple different forms of audio recording software, as well as the means to integrate with Skype and other such programs to enable recorded calls and interviews for the podcast. Different hosting services like Soundcloud and the free Australian variant, Whooshkaa, were introduced to the attentive audience, as we looked onto the continuing presentation.
In addition to the explanation of successful podcast creation, we were also given the opportunity to use and test an audio recording software called ‘Hindenburg’. Unlike the ill-fate blimp, however, this program seems unlikely to crash, presenting itself as a viable alternative to its competitors. This also served as an example of the capabilities of audio editing software in general to an audience undoubtedly comprised in part of more traditional broadcasters.
As someone aspiring to produce podcast and internet broadcast materials in the future, I found this session to be very helpful.
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