I’ve been getting into podcasts recently, I find it’s a great way to learn more about a topic without committing a great deal of time to it.

Podcasts are great because you can listen to up-to-date information on niche topics, and you can do it while driving, when you’re in the gym, or doing housework… (OK so the middle example is somewhat hypothetical).

There are some excellent resources available, and publishers range from large organisations such as the BBC and The Times, to small companies and individuals who create podcasts as a hobby or to generate interest in their services.

Generally podcasts have been free - but premium content podcasts, and subscription models are becoming more popular.

The quality I’ve seen has varied widely, excellent examples of podcasts I’ve been listening to include content from the BBC, and Educational institutions, however I’ve encountered some shocking content from some of the more niche interest groups…

Here are some examples of the bad behaviour I’ve experienced in pod format:

• Clearly no script
• Waffle, and excessive ‘off topic’ conversation
• Poorly edited, or obviously not edited
• Produced in one take, and published with no attention to detail
• Long repetitive intro music… or just really bad music
• Background noise
• Phones ringing

When publishing via Podcast, you can pick it up and listen whenever you’re free - often subscribing to multiple podcasts. So when a 10 minute podcast is diluted with 2 minutes of apologies and excuses for why it’s not been as regular as they would like… not good.

I’ve made a brief post on the PushONline Marketing blog with some examples of great Web Design/Online Marketing Podcasts…

But one non work related podcast that I rate highly is the Russell Brand Podcast; it’s pure random genius, and a typical example of the high standards of digital media that the BBC are producing.

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