Why You Need to Listen to Podcasts
I have to admit, I had NO IDEA what a podcast was and I didn’t care either. I have seen people listening to their phones for years now and assumed they were listening to music that they downloaded. I even heard others discuss something interesting that they heard on a podcast. But, I dismissed these behaviors because a podcast sounded like the new techy thing and I am not into tech… at all.
Well, in the summer of 2015 I realized I had been missing out on a life-changing hobby. I now cannot go a day without listening to a podcast; whether it be while I am cleaning the house, driving to the store, walking the dogs, etc.
If you do one NEW thing this year, let it be listen to a podcast of your choosing. Here’s why:
- Podcasts have changed my perspective
- Podcasts have inspired my goal-setting
- Podcasts have expanded my knowledge base
Who knew podcasts were so powerful, useful and a total game-changer!
If you are anything like I was and know nothing about podcasts, let me give you the details:
What is a Podcast?
It’s an on-demand talk show that comes right to your device so you can listen on the go! There are TONS of podcasts out there on a variety of topics. I personally love leadership and education podcasts. (Click here for edu-podcast suggestions.)
I know you like to watch TV or listen to the radio, but when you do that you’re stuck with commercials decided upon by the network and the topic of the show could potentially be interesting or maybe not at all- what a risk! However, with podcasts you are able to pick the topic you want to hear about (without interruption) and get straight goodness right to your ears AT ANY TIME YOU WANT. No more DVR. No more fast forwarding through commercials. No more listening to random babble of radio hosts- you can just get right to the meat and potatoes! #ondemand
How do I listen to a Podcast?
There is an app on your phone (see picture at the top of this post). When you open it, you can search for specific types of podcasts based on categories that you might be interested in listening to and lots of shows will pop up. Click on one that looks interesting to you and listen for a few seconds. If you like it, keep listening! If you don’t, no big deal. Choose a new podcast. And, if you really really like something, then hit the ‘subscribe’ button to ensure every new episode automatically gets downloaded to your phone.
(click on the image above to subscribe to Always A Lesson’s Empowering Educators Podcast)
Why should I listen to a Podcast?
As I mentioned above, podcasts have become my new professional development [PD], both personally and professionally. I even started keeping a notebook with tidbits of what I had been learning so that I could look back later and remind myself of these truths. I have been rejuvenated in my passion for education. I have been stretched to try new things in my business. I have found powerful, inspiring mentors. And, most importantly, I get excited each week for new episode releases for my favorite podcast shows which heightens my happiness and brings much joy to my life.
I absolutely love that I can bring podcasts with me wherever I go, no matter what I am doing. It couldn’t be more convenient, entertaining and informative. #iheartpodcasts
Head on over to iTunes, or open the app on your phone, and start looking around at available podcasts of your interest. I promise you won’t be disappointed.
What is your favorite podcast and why?
About the author, Gretchen
I am a teacher trainer and coach. Working elbow to elbow with teachers and teacher leaders to ensure instructional proficiency and student achievement soar lights me up. We have a real need in our nation for strong educators to remain in the field. My blog, book, podcast, courses and instructional materials are geared towards empowering teachers (and those that lead them) to receive the support needed to grow and thrive today, tomorrow and always.