How to Listen to Talk Radio Shows Online

There are hundreds of radio talk shows as well as radio stations and Internet only stations available right from your computer. In fact, so many it is difficult to keep track of all of them, much less your favorites. If you or a friend have ever wondered how you can catch your talk shows when you want to listen to them, then this will get you started tuning in to your favorite radio broadcast. These tips will help you listen online on your schedule when it's convenient for you. The tips are also helpful for those who live in regions with a limited amount of stations.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Computer
• Internet Connection (preferably high speed) with a search engine such as Google or Yahoo.
• Software from the radio broadcast
• Windows Media Player, I-tunes, or Real (or any) player as needed by the radio station. (You can have several) They are all free.

1. Find a radio station you would like to listen to online (during work or computer time).
   
   Often times, your local radio station will give you the website address (the www). Or, you can do a search online for topics of interest to you.
   
   For example, use phrases like, "computer talk shows," "health radio talk shows" or "political talk shows" or "Hannity & Colmes"
   
   Or, use the station's call letters, like "WXYZ online broadcast."
2. For nationwide talk shows, you can click the links ("listen now" or "archives") below to hear live and archived (stored) broadcasts. (Those are just examples of some more widely-known but there are literally thousands upon thousands of shows). Some are Internet-only broadcasts, meaning you can only listen online.
3. Go to websites, Follow the prompts to download any of the players it asks you to. You will need separate players depending on which radio station you listen to. It is not necessary to give out personal/demographic information such as your email; this is optional.
4. Do not be afraid to experiment with several different radio talk shows at one time.

Tips & Warnings

• These steps will also work if you want to listen to music oriented radio stations.
• If the player download does not work the first time, try it again.
• Know that not all of the players work as they should. Try them again on another day if they are not streaming.
• Not all radio stations offer streaming of all programs. Some talk shows do not give rights to their shows. If this is the case, you will have to listen as you would normally on the radio.
• Turn off all pop up blocking software, as many times the radio stations will appear as a small pop up on the lower portion of your computer screen.