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Podcasting Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What Is Podcasting?
2. Do I need any special software on my machine?
3. How can I subscribe to a sermon podcast?
4. Where do I find the podcast on my iPod?
5. Are the sermons listed on iTunes?

Podcasting is a term that describes the publishing of media files - generally MP3 files - so that they are available for download to anyone that subscribes to them.  A typical podcast is a  radio-style program - some from major media resources, others from individuals - delivered over the internet to your computer.  Unlike streaming audio which requires you to listen in real time, podcasting allows you to control how and when you hear your programs.

The term derives its name from the iPod™ manufactured by Apple Incorporated. The iPod is an electronic device which stores downloaded files in .mp3 or AAC (Apple iTunes™) formats.   The name "podcast" is no longer specifically related to files downloaded to an iPod but to any software and hardware combination that permits the downloading and playing of files.   

Yes.  There are many free podcast applications which allow you to subscribe and download the media to your MP3 player.  Included are:

• iPodder
• iPodderX
• iTunes

While we cannot make any specific recommendations, perhaps the most commonly used application in the podcasting arena is Apple's iTunes.  You can find out more about each application by clicking on each one in the list above.  The following are a few other helpful links to finding out more about podcasting:

• Apple.com
• CNET

The following are instructions for a quick method for subscribing to the MCCSF sermon podcast.  If you use Apple iTunes, then subscribing to a podcast is relatively easy.  Refer to the instructions for your own software and/or hardware.

1. Using the iTunes drop-down menus, select Advanced > Subscribe to Podcast...
   
   
    
2. A Subscribe to Podcast popup window will be displayed. 
    
3. Type the following into the Subscribe to Podcast window:  http://www.mccsf.org/sermons/podcasts/mccsfsermon.xml
   
    
4. Click OK.
    
5. The podcast will then be added to the Podcasts list of in iTunes:
   
    

Note:  Depending on how your iTunes software is configured, your MP3 player (i.e. an iPod) may be automatically updated with the new podcast.

Use the click-wheel on your iPod and scroll to the Podcasts item  Depending on the kind of iPod you have (iPod, iPod Mini, iPod Nano),  you will need to navigate to a lower level menu.  Consult the Getting Started booklet for specific direction related to your own iPod.

Yes!  The following instructions are general guidelines to finding the sermons on iTunes:

1. Click on the Music Store option in iTunes:
   
   
    
2. Click on the Podcasts option from the list of Music Store options:
   
   
    
3. Type MCCSF in the Podcast search field, then click on the magnifying glass icon next to the search field, or, press Enter, to begin the search:
   
   
    
4. Click on the Subscribe button to subscribe to the desired sermon:
   
   
    
5. The sermon will be transferred to your iPod on your next synchronization.