Help - podcasting explained

Podcasting – as simple as 4-4-2

PODCASTING is one of those terms that’s appeared from nowhere to become a buzzword.

Podcasting means sending audio and/or video over the internet for playback on computers or portable devices, such as iPods and other MP3 players, PDAs and even mobile phones. The name comes from “iPod” and “broadcasting”.

Podcasters are the authors — in our case, Baddiel and Skinner. The great thing about Podcasts is that you can listen to them whenever and wherever you want. Think of it like taping a radio show, only much better.

The easiest way to get hold of Baddiel and Skinner’s podcasts is to download individual episodes as MP3 files directly from this site via the “Listen to it on Your Computer” link on the Podcast Download page and then play them on your computer through a media player such as RealPlayer or Windows Media Player. A broadband connection isn’t essential but would really help.

But if you have iTunes, or are happy to install it on your computer, then you can take advantage of a clever piece of technology called RSS (Really Simple Syndication) to make it possible for your computer to download episodes automatically.

Using iTunes to subscribe to the podcast is a bit like taking out a subscription to a magazine.Rather than posting out a letter to sign up, you click the “Subscribe to the Podcast” link on the Podcast Download page which takes you straight into the iTunes podcast area and automatically signs you up for free. Then, in the same way that a magazine would be sent to you by post, the latest podcast is sent to your computer whenever you log on to the internet and start up iTunes. And, unlike magazine subscriptions, we don’t need to tempt you with a free trial because it's far too good to miss and we’re a generous lot and giving you all of this for free.

Whichever method you choose, if you then want to listen on the go it's easy to hook up your iPod (or slightly less-trendy equivalent) to your computer and download the guys on to your portable device. As simple as 4-4-2.


Frequently asked questions

1) What is podcasting?

It’s the new rock & roll. No, really - it is. And it’s also defined as the delivery of audio content from a website to a mobile device (such as an iPod). Using RSS to deliver content to your computer distinguishes podcasting from downloading or streaming media. No, really - it does.

2) How much does it cost?

Nothing. Well, not for now at any rate. No payment or registration is required. If you're connected to the internet, you're ready to go. RSS delivery is fast, minimising time spent online. Further content can be downloaded automatically.

3) What is RSS?

An acronym. If you must know more, RSS (Really Simple Syndication) allows websites to alert readers each time content is added or updated. If you want to learn more about RSS or subscribe to an RSS feed, don’t ask us - ask the experts by clicking here

4) Do I need an iPod?

Yes if cutting-edge style is very important to you. No, if all you want to do is listen to Frank and Dave. The audio can be played on your computer, or moved to any MP3 compatible device, such as another brand of MP3 player, a mobile phone or a PDA.

5) What is an MP3 file?

MP3s are audio files. MP3s are low in size but high in quality and are the standard digital sound file format.

6) Does my computer support podcasting?

Any computer with the exception of those rescued from skips before 1998 should be capable. Of course, your computer needs to run podcasting software in order to receive the audio file. iTunes will do the trick. A broadband internet connection is recommended, but isn't essential if you are patient.

7) Apple Macs

Some podcast software is Apple Mac specific, but new Macs come pre-loaded with iTunes. Frankly, it would be quite shocking if you had a Mac but did not use iTunes. If you have somehow resisted the urge to install it on your Mac, then some other Mac friendly podcast software can be found here.

8) Where can I get assistance?

For assistance with the World Cup Podcast website, please email support@baddielandskinner.com . If you are having trouble installing podcast software, please refer to the supplier. If you have trouble with the concept of podcasting, then please ask a young person to explain it to you. Alternatively, you can avoid embarrassment by referring to an online encyclopaedia here.