How do I Call a Talk Show With Skype?

VoIP services like Skype allow you to make computer phone calls.

Skype is an online telephony service, also known as a VoIP (Voice over IP) service. It allows you to make free voice calls to other Skype users, and also make calls to ordinary telephones like landlines and cell phones for a fee. You can call in to both domestic and foreign radio talk shows using Skype, paying by the minute for service to telephones all over the world.

Things You'll Need

• Email address
• Headphones or speakers

Instructions

1. Download Skype from the Skype website (see Resources).

2. Run the Skype setup program you downloaded, called "SkypeSetup.exe." Follow the installation wizard's instructions to install Skype on your computer.

3. Run the Skype program from your "Start" menu or the desktop. The Skype login interface appears.

4. Click the "Don't Have a Skype Name?" link beneath the Skype Name field to create a Skype account if you don't have one already. A new window will appear.

5. Fill out the Create a New Skype Account form, including your name, Skype Name (username), a password and your email address. Click the "I Agree--Create Account" button to continue.

6. Input any of your geographical and biographical information if you wish. Uncheck the "Sign Me in When Skype Starts" checkbox if you share your computer with others and don't want anyone making calls using your Skype account. Click "OK" to continue.

7. Click the right-most button in the window to proceed directly to Skype's main interface.

8. Set up your microphone and speaker/headphones by clicking the "Call" menu, then choosing "Audio Settings." In the window that appears, verify that the green Volume bar moves when you speak into your microphone and that you hear sound when you press the green button in the Speakers area.

9. Click "Make a Free Test Call" in the Other Things You Can Do section of the Options window to place your first Skype call. An recorded voice answers, and instructs you to record a message to test your audio settings. Follow the instructions and verify that your sound is satisfactory. Click the red button to end the test call. Click "Save" in the Options window to store your settings and return to the main interface.

10. Click the "Skype" menu, then choose "Account." A new window appears. You are granted your first Skype call to a regular phone free, but it lasts a maximum of five minutes and is probably inadequate for calling a talk show.

11. Click the "Buy Skype Credit" button in the upper-left corner of the window to buy credit with which to make calls. A payment interface appears.

12. Fill out your billing name and address, then click "Next" to continue. You can use the PayByCash service if you don't have a credit card or PayPal account.

13. Fill out your payment details, uncheck the "Auto-Recharge" checkbox unless you want it, and check the "Terms of Service" checkbox. Click "Next" to continue.

14. Input your remaining payment details and click "Buy Now" to complete your purchase. You are now ready to call telephones with your Skype account.

15. Click the "Call Phones" button near the bottom of the main Skype window, then select the country you want to call from the flag drop-down menu in the right side of the window. Enter the phone number of the talk show in the field next to it. Click the green "Call" button to begin your call.

Tips & Warnings

• Use free call recorder software to create audio logs of your conversations with pundits and preachers (see Resources).

References

• Skype: About Skype?
• Skype: Pre-Pay

Resources

• Skype: Download Skype for Windows
• VoIPCallRecording: MP3 Skype Recorder