October 19, 2023

At a recent podcasting conference in Colorado, several UMB staff members had the privilege to learn A LOT about podcasting. We learned about what we are doing well and where we need to improve. And, surprisingly, we learned that many people do listen to our episodes, but that many others are unsure about what a podcast really is or how to listen. To that end, we are sharing a simple overview for our new or beginning podcast listeners in hopes that you'll subscribe and tune in to “The UMB Pulse” podcast!

A podcast is where I can learn how things are made or get the latest “dish” on politics, Prince Harry and Meghan, or do-it-yourself, right?

Well, sort of ...

A podcast is often described as a modern-day radio show — a place where we can listen, learn, and be entertained. Simply put: A podcast is an audio program, similar to talk radio, but you subscribe to it on your smartphone and listen to it whenever you like.

To add a little more detail, a podcast usually features one or more recurring hosts engaged in a discussion about a particular topic or current event. It is a series of audio episodes, all focused on a particular topic or theme, like baking bread or becoming an entrepreneur.

• Some podcasts are carefully scripted while others are completely improvised, and others hover in the middle.
• Many “pods” use an interview format, while others are more storytelling in nature.
• Podcasts often combine elaborate and artistic sound production with thematic sounds.
• Many podcast series provide an associated website with links and show notes, guest biographies, transcripts, additional resources, commentary, and sometimes a community forum dedicated to discussing the show's content.

OK, I’m interested. How do I listen to my first podcast?

You can listen or subscribe to any show with an app on your smartphone — then listen to episodes whenever it best fits your schedule: while working out, gardening, doing the dishes, relaxing, multitasking .. or a million and one other times or places.

There are LOTS of podcast platforms available for iPhones and Androids. Not all apps are alike, so listen to a few and decide which works best for you. Some well-known apps include:

• Apple Podcasts
• Spotify
• Overcast
• Google Podcasts
• Pocket Casts
• Castbox
• Podcast Addict

For the “10+ Best Podcast Apps and Players in 2023,” according to the Software Testing Help website, click here. Also, many podcasts recently have added a visual element and appear on YouTube, as well.

When it comes to actually “tuning in,” you can listen on your headphones, in the car, or through speakers.

Why are you telling me all of this and what will I hear on “The UMB Pulse?”

“The UMB Pulse” shares stories about UMB Change Makers who are taking creative action to overcome barriers and solve social problems in our communities, across the state of Maryland, and globally. Furthering UMB President Bruce Jarrell’s commitment to Maryland, these stories shed light on programs in our own “backyard” as well as impressive UMB efforts on the other side of the world.

We also share stories about our alumni Change Makers who are industry experts or movers and shakers doing interesting work that makes an impact or creates new solutions to old problems.

Please listen, and hopefully subscribe, to “The UMB Pulse” podcast.

Are there other UMB podcasts?

Absolutely! Some of the individual schools, departments, and students host podcasts, too. You can search our website to find a few others such as “The Table,” “Moving the Needle,” and “The Bridge.”