Podcasts explained
A ‘Podcast’ is, generally speaking, an audio recording in the style of a radio programme which is available to download from the internet.
The word ‘podcast’ itself is a hybrid word formed from ‘iPod’ and ‘broadcast’.
Despite the reference to Apple’s iPod, this device is not needed to receive or listen to podcasts. All that is required is a computer with speakers or headphones, and ‘podcatching’ software.
The Stroke Association’s podcasts, or ‘Strokecasts’ as we call them, do not even require podcatching software; they can be listened to right here on the website.
A podcatcher is a piece of software which automatically downloads the most recent edition or episode of a podcast series straight to your computer.
They often also provide the option to transfer to a portable audio player, such as an iPod or Creative Zen. Popular podcatchers include iTunes, Winamp, and Juice.
