Podcasts: A Thirty Hour a Week Job

I have recently discovered yet another time-sucking activity involving the wonders of technology - podcasts. I realize that podcasts have been around for a while, but you have to understand that I am from the generation that was just on the cusp of the technological boom.

So, although I am not a total Luddite, I am a bit slow to embrace all of the technological advances circulating around us. I am much more likely to use a new device if it promises to make my life greener (such as eliminating paper statements or junk mail), more practical, or more efficient. I find myself much more reluctant to jump on the technology bandwagon if its only value is that of pure leisure and entertainment.

It began innocently enough. In one of my more impractical moments, I started subscribing to a podcast discussing the television show Lost. My husband, who often introduces me to my more unproductive activities, got me hooked. Pretty soon, I was devoting an hour every week to listening to the theoretical and philosophical aspects of the popular ABC show.

"What are these things you call podcasts? They are so interesting," I said to my husband one Saturday afternoon. "Can I subscribe to more of them?"

Dan proceeded to show me how to search for podcasts in iTunes, which incidentally is exactly like searching for music. Before I knew it, I had subscribed to NPR Music Interviews, NPR Books, Fresh Air, On Point Books, All Songs Considered, and This American Life. Eventually, I added an explicit “progressive” radio show that advocates all sorts of liberal ideas about corporate greed and socialism. I believe the latter to be some subconscious, latent act of rebellion against my somewhat conservative family.

Now I am stuck with getting through several hours of talk shows, interviews, and news stories throughout the week. Did I mention I also download public domain audio books?

I listen to podcasts in my car, at the grocery - like some teenage punk - on road trips, and occasionally during breaks at school. Remember, I am a music teacher, and I hardly listen to music on my iPod anymore.

The other day, the assistant principal thought I was rocking out during my lunch hour. I explained to him that I was listening to a music podcast. He was impressed, obviously believing that I am a nerd and that I am always looking for ways to develop my craft. These are all true suppositions.

But I was also glad to get through my three hours of podcasts before going to bed that night.