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Since my last post about using your voice to build a relationship with your readers, several of my readers have asked questions about podcasts. What is a podcast? How do I make a podcast? How much does it cost?

What is a podcast?

A podcast is an audio file delivered via subscription. Instead of having to download a file to their computer, your audience can get the file automatically sent to their portable media device (iPod or other player) or to their computer. Then they can listen to your message whenever and wherever they want.

Media players have become a very popular way to make downtime productive. This has also been called “time shifting”. The idea started with taping television programs to watch later. Portable media players have taken this idea to a whole new level.

How much does it cost?

Apple’s iTunes is to podcasting what Ezine Articles is to article directories. iTunes distributes free as well as paid content. It’s free and easy to set up a podcast. It’s great to tell your audience to “catch me on iTunes!” Of course there are other podcast directories as well. Put your message in as many places as possible.

How do I make a Podcast?

A podcast starts with an MP3 file. If you have a different type file, there are lots of file converters on the web.

Shorter files work better than longer ones. If you have a long file, use editing software to split it up into smaller chunks. A short, daily message is a great way to keep in touch with your subscribers.

If you want to get the entire scoop on podcasting, Alex Mandossian and Paul Colligan hold an once-yearly class,  Podcast Secrets. The class is inclusive but expensive and contains lots of bonuses. It’s well worth the money.

However, if your budget doesn’t include room for high-end products just now, there is a preview call with will run for at least 2 hours (it always goes for 3+). It will be recorded, so you can go back and listen again and again.

Normally, this call is $99. However, I’ve arranged a coupon for you so you can get the call for $20, which will fit into your budget a lot easier than the entire course.

The call is full of usable content. You will be able to create great podcasts after listening to the preview call.

If you make it to the live call, you can ask questions. If not, you can listen later (time shift the material).

Some of the things you will learn on the call are:

* Exactly 8 reasons why Podcasting brings them, and can bring you, a critical business (and profit) advantage.

* 7 secrets to producing profitable Podcasting content in the fastest possible time.

* 9 marketing channels for the Podcasters … and how to leverage each one.

* The 6-Step Podcast Monetization Roadmap

* How to part-the-curtain on the listening habits of your audience, and leverage that knowledge to produce profitable audience action.

* At least 5 things, you can implement today that will integrate your Podcast content into your business structure … and how to see results almost instantly.

* 7 steps to getting your Podcast audience to take the very actions you want them to take.

Check it out. I’ll be on the call, hope you will be too.

Write on,

Lynn Jordan