Podcasting is the wave of the future and a current craze on the internet. And really, they're nothing more than mp3 files that people, known as podcasters, record and make available for download on their own terms. The biggest misconception is from the term pod. The fact is you only need a computer to download the files and from there you can listen through your speakers or headphones. An iPod is not necessary, as mentioned, your computer or other mp3 player will do just fine.

Podcasting is nothing more than a new form of radio. Some are professionally done with full production while others are audio blogs and feature a host or hosts bantering back and forth. Still, other shows can feature "podsafe" music or music that has been made available for use by podcasters. They can inform or just entertain, there are literally thousands of podcasts available.

Podcasts can be manually downloaded from diffrent directories on the internet, through the shows' website or can be downloaded regularly through "podcatching" software, such as ipodder. The listener will enter into the program an URL that points to an xml file. This allows that program to download new episodes whenever they are made available.

Anyone with the dedication can create a podcast. You just need at least one microphone, a computer, an audio capturing device or software and a voice. There are a million different setups and the potential podcaster will need to find what setup works best for them. Some people are actual djs and invoke high-end mixer setups, while others are hobbiests and record with the bare minimums, either way it still seems to get out there.

Even big names like Rush Limbaugh and Glenn Beck are beginning to offer mp3 "podcast" like downloads through their pay service. Also, Adam Curry, the creator of ipodder just launched a podcast showcase on Sirius satellite radio.

Podcasting is just in it's early days, the possibilities are endless.

Scott Washington is the creator of The John and Wayne Show, located at http://www.johnandwayneshow.com.

A few recommended podcast directories: http://www.podcastalley.com http://www.podcastingnews.com http://www.podcastpickle.com http://www.podcast.net