Do you own an iPod? If not, why not? Maybe... you are one of many who believe an iPod is just a gadget for teenagers and college students. Or... you purchased one because you thought it was just a cool way to store and listen to your music. If this is you, then you are missing all the technology has to offer. Over the last two years, the iPod has rapidly become much more than just an entertainment device. With the increasing deployment of podcasts, audiobooks, and university lectures through iTunes, the iPod has become a great way to "exercise your brain".
According to Apple's website, iTunes now offers over 100,000 podcasts. I'm sure most of you may have heard the term podcast, but you may not know what the term actually means. A podcast is simply a video or audio recording transferred though the internet in which you can subscribe to the feeds or "shows", similar to using your DVR to record a TV show. The shows are easily produced and distributed thus you have a wide range of shows to choose from.
So why listen to podcasts? I'm an avid learner. In the past, my learning came mostly from books. Then came the web and blogs. When I discovered podcasts, I was instantly hooked. I still read books, websites, and blogs, but the IPod has allowed me to learn more efficiently. Instead of listening to music at work, driving, or mowing the yard; I now listen to podcasts and audiobooks.
In order to start receiving podcasts, all you need to do is download iTunes. I would also suggest an iPod so you can take the podcasts with you. Of course you can use other MP3 players, though I have yet to find one that is so easy to use and has such an efficient method of distributing the music, podcasts and audiobooks through the iTunes software. You then install iTunes on your computer and sign up for an account. You can go to the iTunes store and browse the 100,000 podcasts available. They are free, so try as many as you like. Once you find a podcast you are interested in then you simply subscribe. iTunes will automatically update when the new podcasts are available. When you want to update your podcasts to your iPod, you connect your iPod to your computer and sync. I also suggest you find a way to listen to your iPod in your car. Many new cars have this ability built in. If your car doesn't have this ability, then the simplest method is to purchase an adapter that will play your iPod over an FM frequency. At work, you can simply plug your iPod into your computer speakers.
To get you started, I have listed my podcasts I listen to on a regular basis. Simply click on the iTunes button and it will take you directly to the subscription page (you must have iTunes installed):
Business, Finance and Accounting:
Dan Miller - 48 Days to the Work You Love
The Dave Ramsey Show - The Truth About Life and Money
Tax Talk Today - Brought to you by the IRS
Brian Preston's "Money Guy"
Andrew Horowitz, CFP - The Disciplined Investor
Techie:
Intersection Live - CPA Technology Advisor
this WEEK in TECH
Windows Weekly
MacBreak Weekly
Revision3 - Tekzilla
Cranky Geeks
dl.tv
Personal Growth:
1 Year Daily Audio Bible
New Life Live - This podcast is free but you must register first.
Focus on the Family - This podcast is free but you must register first.