What is a podcast, and how do I listen?

After seeing the deliciously titled podcast Music from the Red Couch, you are undoubtedly asking yourself this question:

What is a podcast, and how do I listen in?

Well, let us at MRC fill you in. Basically, Podcasts are the new Radio. They are recorded MP3 files often in radio-show format that are uploaded to a website so that anyone with an internet connection can listen to them. Since they are pre-recorded, the listener can choose when and where she or he wants to listen. Often this is done by downloading the podcast using a music-playing software program (like iTunes), and then transferring the podcast to a digital music device (like an iPod or a Rio or a filthy, filthy Zune).

Here's how to do it: Go to the podcast-listing directory of your choice to search for podcasts. You might like Podcast Alley, Podcast Net or (the wonderfully named) Podcast Pickle. Note that Music from the Red Couch is not listed at these directories -- it is invite only, so that means that you are very special if you are reading this. If you have iTunes, you can use the iTunes music store to browse for other podcasts in the "podcast" section.
Podcasts should be free. If they're not, you're getting ripped off. The radio's free, right?
Find the podcast you'd like, and there should be a "subscribe" button or something you can click to automatically subscribe to the show. Make sure your music playing software (like iTunes) is open first, then click the button. If you don't have iTunes, I'm not sure how your software will handle it - google it and you'll probably figure out how using RSS feeds.

What is subscribing? Well, your music playing software will automatically (or manually, depending on your settings) download the podcast to your computer whenever a new one comes out! Then all you have to do is plug in your digital player (like iPod) and add it on so you can listen on the go.

How do I subscribe to Music from the Red Couch?
I'm glad you asked.  Make sure iTunes is open, then click here.

That's all, folks! And make sure to leave comments so we can make the show better for you.

Love the Music from the Red Couch Staff.