Podcasting is not a new idea. The technology has been around for sometime and ever since Apple’s iTunes was released, podcasting has been getting more popular and easier to access.
What is podcasting? Wikipedia defines it as a series of digital computer files, usually either digital audio or video, that is released periodically and made available for download by means of web syndication.
The syndication aspect of the delivery is what differentiates podcasts from other ways of accessing files, such as simple download or streaming: it means that special client software applications known as podcatchers (such as Apple Inc.’s iTunes or Nullsoft’s Winamp) can automatically identify and retrieve new files in a given series when they are made available, by accessing a centrally-maintained web feed that lists all files currently associated with that particular series. New files can thus be downloaded automatically by the podcatcher and stored locally on the user’s computer or other device for offline use, making it simpler for the user to download content that is released episodically.
I am an avid viewer/listener of podcasts. Being a geek, most of my podcast are design and technology related. The production qualities of most of the ones I listen to are incredible. Revision3 has established themselves as a leader of original online television and their quality, content and production, is top notch.
Now, for us modelrailers, there are some quality podcast out there that are very entertaining and informative. Scotty Mason has created a wonderful podcast the Scotty Mason Show. The show is very informative and a lot of fun to listen to. The Model Railcast Show, by Ryan Anderson and Will Ayerst, has a similar format and just as informative. Both have great interviews with manufactures and model builders as well as talk about new and cool kits and technologies within the model railroad community.
For the podcaster the costs involved would be hosting (where the files will be stored online) and any production costs. However, with advertising, you can off set these costs. There are many advantages of podcasting verses traditional broadcast. First, there are no time constraints. The length of your “show” is up to you. Second, there are no FCC rules. Now I know you are not going to be putting together a show with heavy swearing or nudity, however you can say what you want, the way you want. Lastly, your broadcast is worldwide. Whoever has a computer can watch your show. The only tools you need to view or listen are a media player and speakers.
The one thing lacking with podcasts in our hobby is video. Why? Is it the expense of quality production? Is it the time needed to produce a show? I think it is all of the above. But what a great opportunity for someone who has the time and equipment to produce a model railroad show.
