What Is a Podcast? 5 Types of Podcasts Explained

A podcast is a collection or series of digital audio files that are made available for downloading or listening via the Internet. Each individual audio recording is known as a podcast episode. Podcasts are typically hosted by an individual or individuals who lead a conversation, share stories, or report the news. The creator of a podcast is known as a podcaster. Podcasts are hosted on streaming applications such as Spotify, Stitcher, iTunes, Google Podcasts, and Apple Podcasts (the podcast app that comes with iOS).

The history of podcasting began with the creation of the iPod. In fact, the word "podcast" is a portmanteau—a combination of the word "iPod" and "broadcast."

Podcasting is a conveniently accessible medium for listeners and creators alike.

• For podcasters: Podcasters interested in creating their own podcast have several avenues to publish their work. Unlike radio stations and television networks, which are often subject to regulations and approvals, several podcasting platforms allow for self-publishing. In order to create a new podcast, you'll need a few pieces of equipment, such as a USB microphone, pop filter, and headphones. You also need access to audio recording and editing software to produce your own audio content.
• For listeners: For listeners, a podcast operates like an on-demand Internet radio show. You can listen to episodes on a podcast app or subscribe to podcasts online using an RSS feed (Rich Site Summary or Really Simple Syndication). Podcast subscribers are notified each time a new episode is available. Most smartphones, including iPhones and Android phones, will come equipped with a media player, which allows you to subscribe to podcasts and stream or download podcast episodes.

Whether you're considering making your own podcast or simply looking for a new show to listen to, there are a few popular podcast formats to consider.

1. 1. Scripted fiction: Scripted fiction podcasts are audio-only theatrical productions. Some fictional podcasts might tell a single serialized story—much like a TV show or audiobook—or they may tell a new story with each episode.
2. 2. Interview: Interview-style podcasts typically have a host or pair of co-hosts who conduct an interview with a person of interest, similar to a TV talk show.
3. 3. Monologue: Single individuals produce monologue, or solo, podcasts. They might be an expert in a particular field with information to share, a storyteller, comedian, or news anchor.
4. 4. Nonfiction storytelling: One of the most popular types of podcasts is storytelling podcasts that retell true stories. These podcasts may contain interviews with those involved in the story or an expert with knowledge of the story. True crime podcasts fit within this category.
5. 5. Conversational: Another popular podcast format involves a panel of hosts who record themselves having interesting and entertaining conversations on a specific topic. This could include comedy, sports, pop culture, science, history, and more.

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