THE TERM PODCAST comes from iPod and Broadcast - referring to the first wide spread application of syndicated audio distribution using the web. The name stuck, even with other generic web-based audio distribution. "Podcasts" can now be channeled to other devices or streamed through web browsers in varying formats.
Podcasts are yet another medium for content conveyance. Podcasts are well suited for distributing music and interviews, but educators can put podcasting to good use in distributing lectures, seminars, speeches, etc. Some large companies use podcasts to keep employees up to date on corporate issues.
On The Run
The virtue of the Podcast is that the delivered file is portable and can be played "on the run" in iPods, MP3 players, cell phones, laptops and many late model car audio systems. This portability fits well into active lifestyles.