Eastern Florida Online (EFO) Students' Library Guide

What are podcasts?  

Oxford Languages Online defines a "podcast" as "a digital audio file made available on the Internet for downloading to a computer or mobile device, typically available as a series, new installments of which can be received by subscribers automatically."

Tech writer Ben Lutkevich wrote on the TechTarget website (accessed November 2023) that podcasts also can be hosted or embedded in websites.  He says that there are no standardized expectations for podcasts; they can be about any topic, of any length, hosted anywhere, and each have their own very distinct style of voice, tone, and presentation.

Why create a podcast?

Podcasting can fulfill many needs.  The "ImprovePodcast" website lists 21 reasons for creating a podcast; some of those options include:

You're passionate about a topic and want to share it with others

You can build a personal brand through a podcast

There are minimal start-up costs so it's an easy way to speak up and out

It is an easy way to become an influencer as the platform is still new and growing

You enjoy connecting with and helping others.

Podcasting also can be a way of making money for podcast-creators:  

Spotify has an Oct. 11, 2023 post about making money from podcasting (using its platform and tools). 

"The Podcast Host"s Colin Gray discusses monetizing your podcast and how to do this (Gray, "How to make money from a podcast," 8/4/23).

Forbes Magazine Online discusses "Eight Ways to Monetize your Podcast" (YEC Council Post, accessed 11/20/23).

Vulture is a well-known website for pop-culture fans to go to when looking for interesting material about the entertainment industry. 

One of its staff writers, Nicholas Quah, created a list of "The Most Influential Podcasters Right Now" (published on June 18, 2024).  The list has sections focused on the different types of podcasts that exist (for sports, news, women, etc.).