They are the latest fashion accessory amongst teenagers and the youth of today, with most owning one or something similar – ripping, downloading and listening to music seem second nature. Some may wonder what all the fuss is about – why is it so necessary to listen to music anywhere, anytime, anyhow. And, all those different colours and attachments – what’s that all about. It may seem like just another gimmick to part money from unsuspecting parents.

Ipods, however, can be more than just a device for listening to music. Used in conjunction with Podcasts, Ipods, can actually be educational, entertaining and appealing to all ages. If you don’t believe me; Aussie Google the word Podcast and see what you come up with – hundreds of audio files available for download to your computer; then transferable to an Ipod or MP3 player. That is of course, what Podcasts are – pre-recorded digital media files which are distributed over the internet.

Even though Podcasts are not real-time they can still be worthwhile – especially if you’ve missed your favourite radio program and were really looking forward to that discussion on Global Warming or some other HOT topic. Just check the radio station’s website; it may be available as a podcast. You don’t even need an Ipod – anyone can download and install iTunes from the Apple website, then download a podcast and listen to it on a computer.

The ABC website has loads of radio programs available as podcasts including News, Current Affairs, Law Report and of course the Country Hour. So, farmers, download the latest episode of the Country Hour and transfer it to your Ipod before you shift that mob of sheep or spend a few hours on the tractor – provided, of course, this is acceptable according to your OH&S policy.

Still lost by technical terms which seem like another language; here are the steps:

1. Download and install iTunes from the Apple website: http://www.apple.com/au/itunes/

2. Go to the ABC website and choose a podcast: http://www.abc.net.au/services/po dcasting/

3. Copy the URL for the podcast

The Country Hour URL is: http://abc.net.au/rural/audio/chp odcast.xml

4. Open iTunes and click on the Advanced menu then Subscribe to Podcast

5. Paste the URL and begin downloading

So, whether you are a concerned parent who wants their teenager to do more than just listen to music, a suit who regularly misses an industry specific radio program or someone who enjoys tinkering with technology– try podcasting.