Power to the podcast

I decided my first blog post just had to be on podcasts. They’re brilliant. If you haven’t caught the pod-bug yet, beware – it can quickly become addictive. For those who aren’t in the know, the word ‘podcast’ is a blend of ‘iPod’ and ‘broadcast.’ The new word has even made it into the Oxford dictionary:

podcast n. a digital recording of a radio broadcast or similar programme, made available on the Internet for downloading to a personal audio player.

The thing is, there are blogs on just about anything. Whether you’re into music, reading, cars, travel, comedy or computers, there’s a podcast for you. There are heaps of podcasts from around the world, all available on the world wide web, but there are also places to go for podcasts with a Kiwi flavour. If you don’t believe me, go to our New Zealand podcast category or check out my latest find – the audio download section on the Radio New Zealand site. Go there for intelligent audio programmes, interviews and news that you’ve missed during your working day.

My pick of the moment: their Advancing Environmental Sustainability series. In these discussions, hosted by Kathryn Ryan, experts examine the state of the environment 20 years on from the creation of the Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment. But it’s not all doom and gloom for the world: contributors put forward suggestions for a sustainable future. It’s well worth a listen for anyone who cares about the environment!