How to Publish Your Podcast for Free on iTunes With RSS

Many people don't realize how easy it is to create a podcast and distribute it via iTunes and other sites via RSS (Real Simple Syndication, the newsfeed technology that allows people to subscribe to podcasts, news, and blogs.) Podcasts are like your own personal radio show. Talk about whatever you want -- hobbies, business, politics, whatever strikes your fancy. By publishing your podcast with a service like iTunes, people can subscribe and automatically receive your podcast on their iPods or computers. Free software and hosting means you don't have to pay a dime. All you really need is a computer, cheap microphone, and Internet connection. And, of course, something to talk about!

Things You'll Need

• Computer
• Microphone
• Free audio production software

Instructions

1. Record your podcast, using a free program like Audacity.

2. Save it as MP3.

3. Find a free host for your podcast. The Internet Archive is one popular choice. Set up an account, click on the "Upload" button and follow the prompts to upload your podcast file.

4. Set up a blog, using a free account on a service like Blogger, just for your podcast. This will enable you to create an RSS file. RSS files let your listeners subscribe to your podcast, so that they automatically receive new ones. It's a must if you want to use a service like iTunes. Podcast411 has detailed instructions on how to create the RSS file. Be sure to pay close attention to details required by iTunes.

5. Sign up for iTunes, once you have your RSS file set up. Go into the podcasts section of the iTunes store, and click on "Submit a Podcast." Wait a few days, and your podcast should appear.

Tips & Warnings

• If you like podcasting, you'll probably want to upgrade to professional microphones and a mixer at some point.

Resources

• Behringer Studio Condenser Microphone C-1
• Yamaha Stereo Mixer
• Internet Archive