YouTube

Last week YouTube announced that in June, all YouTube accounts that meet certain criteria will start getting YouTube Live Events. You will be able (with the help of 3rd party software) to stream straight to your YouTube channel. With the new YouTube instant processing in place, your event could be up online within minutes of finishing.

I had Live Events for a while now and have been playing with the features. In this video I show you what requirements you need, how to enable YouTube Live Events and how to create an event to Live stream.

Is Live Events Different from Hangouts?

Yes. With Google Hangouts, you are bringing in up to 9 other people to your video. With YouTube Live Event you can do this solo. Sure, you can bring Hangouts into your Live Events to make it more interactive but its not necessary.

Another advantage is the quality of the Live Event. Whereas hangouts are limited to 480p (right now), Live Events HD can bring your cameras up to 1080p – 6,000Kbps – if you have the bandwidth to do so.

Requirements for YouTube Live Events

According to YouTube, you must have an account that is in good standing. If you have any major copyright violations against, you will not get Live Events until you can rectify that.

You must also have at least 1,000 subscribers to the channel. Now before you do something like go to Fiverr.com to get your 1,000 subscribers – don’t. That could put your account in bad standings.

How to Enable YouTube Live Events

In the Channel Settings – Account Features you will see all the items you are approved for. At the bottom, you will see “Live Events” with a button next to that. When you press the button, you must fill out the information and agree to the Terms of Services (TOS)

Basically, the TOS says that you will not live stream any copyrighted material – audio or video – unless you have the proper consent to do so. You could instantly get taken down if YouTube notices you are violating any copyright and could lose your status.

After agreeing to the TOS, YouTube will announce if you are approved via email. This took me only a day, but could change when they open it to everyone in June.

Live Event Page with One Event Setup

How to Create a Live Event in YouTube

To schedule a Live Event, you will see a new option in Video Manager – Live Events (this link will not work if you do not have approval). The event area is where you schedule all your events.

Choose “New Live Event”. A form similar to the Upload will appear with a few differences. An Event Settings tab will be present, the Start and End times of the event and Agree to TOC of streaming.

Some important parts to this form:

• Agree to TOC – You must check this box to go further
• Monetization -  Some may not have this option. You must opt-in to monetizing your videos.
• Event Settings – Broadcast Delay - This option needs to be selected for insert advertising.
• Enable DVR – If you don’t want people to rewind the video, uncheck this.
• Recording - It is best to record in 2 hour lengths, so set up your event in 2 hour blocks.

3rd Party Software for Creating a Live Stream

Once you create the event, you must tell YouTube what software you will be using and what bitrate you will be encoding at. Choose an image for the Thumbnail, then select the bitrate for a 240, 360, 480p 720p or 1080p video.

Your encoder information will pop up. I used Wirecast in this instance, but you can use other 3rd party software.

Add a Camera

This feature allows you to add another camera source to your video. Maybe another computer with webcam, or a camera with a streaming box attached. They must be FMLE or RTMP compliant.

YouTube Live Event Control Room

Live Control Room – YouTube Live Events

The control room allows you to start/stop the recording, Insert slates, insert ads or give broadcast alerts (such as a reschedule). The Live public video video will show a countdown clock until your show is on. This will be on the page you end up promoting during the week.

Setting up to Wirecast

I’ll be brief since I explain it in the video. When you set your Broadcast settings, you now have a YouTube option. Choose a YouTube stream option that works best. If you want ad insertions, choose the ad box. You can also choose the backup server, but only if there are problems.

Authenticate with Google and you will get your events in a drop-down to choose from.

Once the setting are configured and you are ready to stream, hit the broadcast button (satellite icon on top). That will send the feed to YouTube, but doesn’t start the recording. You will still have to go back into the web page and choose “Enable Preview”, then “Start Recording”.

*Note – this process can take a few minutes. If you are setting for a 9 AM start, you might want to get the preview set and record ready a few minutes before.

Congrats! You Have Streamed on YouTube!

When its all said and done, you will have successfully streamed on YouTube. It will take a few minutes for the video to show up in your video manager, which you can add or edit items. You will also be able to see the analytics of the live stream as well as the downloads.

As YouTube continues to grow this area, you might see more editing and other options. Maybe even a web interface to control camera angles. For now, happy streaming! Let me know where your events will be!

YouTube Live Events: How to Set Up your Channel for Live Streaming

In CPP Part 1, I talked about getting the podcast started. I discussed getting a position description and setting rules and expectations to the show. The guidelines are one of the most important parts of putting the podcast together. So now we move onto the 2nd important part – getting your company invested in the podcast itself.

Have the Job Invest in the Podcast

Make the Job Invest in this Podcast

Last week I heard of a person who is making a podcast for their job. They are packing up their own equipment, then setting up shop at the job to podcast. Once done, they pack their stuff up and head home.

When the company doesn’t have any money in the podcast, they treat it as such. Its as important to them as the tchotchke you might have sitting on your desk. If your company puts no money into a project, the expectation is not great.

Create a Budget

Create a Yearly Budget

It might sound intimidating but if you set a budget for gear, space and the show, your job will take the podcast more serious. Even if you ask for a few hundred dollars for equipment to buy a microphone, iPad and app to podcast with, it’s the companies’ money and therefore the company will want to keep an eye on their investment.

Think of creating a “Setup budget” for year 1 and a yearly budget thereafter. Assume your equipment will last you 2-3 years without need for upgrade (unless you move from audio to video). Case in point – a Blue Yeti USB Microphone is only $99.99 at the time of this post. The Blue Yeti USB /XLR Pro is $249.00 (because you can connect to a mixer or use the USB functionality). This microphone is a top seller because it works well and doesn’t break the bank.

In addition, if your podcast is to be sent out to the general public, then make sure you have budget for advertising – like a Google ad or Facebook sponsor ad. You can do a lot with a $200 ad buy budget to promote a show.

Website Hosting, Podcast Getting its Own Domain Name

If your podcast is for the world to hear, then make sure it’s accessible to the world. A lot of companies can spare disk space on a server so you can store the podcasts and make the RSS feeds for iTunes. However, add to your budget a yearly fee for a podcast statistic program and even a Domain name for your show. Even if its www.[YourCompany Name]Podcast.com. 

That can increase SEO on your companies website. Make sure you can show that in the yearly reports.

Get Space for Your Podcast

Get a Physical Space for Your Podcast

Don’t expect getting an office to turn into a studio. You might just get an empty cubicle to do the show in. The more important part is making your company carve out a spot for podcasting.

This is another way to vest interest in this podcast. It also gives the boss a visual so it keeps in their mind. If the mixer, microphone and computer are out in a cubicle and the boss sees you podcasting from it, they might not question its validity – especially when you are not around to defend it.

Get Podcast Logos Made

Every small business I worked at had at least one person who was the graphic designer. Have them design the iTunes art – even if your show is not going to be in iTunes. Have the web master put the image on the corporate Internet / Intranet with links to the media. Print out a banner that might hang in the cubicle, in the break room or wherever you need to remind employees there is a podcast. The more people see it, the better.

Make and giveaway some swag

Maybe Some Giveaway SWAG….

Even if this is an internal podcast, everyone likes to get something for free. If the company makes swag for tradeshows or giveaways, approach the person in charge and ask to get some of those items – especially coffee cups and T-shirts.

Ask and budget for a few items with the podcast logo printed up. Then during your show, ask a question – win a cup. Draw a name from everyone who responds and get a T-shirt. If the winners are internal, you can walk the swag to their desks, or have them come on the show for a 2 minute Q&A.

Summary: The Company Invests in the Podcast

Keeping the crowd interactive – no matter who the crowd is –  will show. Result: a good boss will see the value of  the podcast. The equipment will always be at the job and not interfere with your regular duties because it will have its own space. Even if you are a small office, this line of communication can be ten times more powerful than any newsletter or memo. So don’t be shy in asking for a few dollars to make this podcast happen.

Corporation for Public Podcasting – The Company Invests in the Podcast

Audio Technica ATR2100

A few weeks ago on the Podcasters Community, I was hearing about this microphone for podcasting. At first glance I blew it off, but with more podcasters talking about it, I thought I would get the microphone and check it out. I am talking about the Audio Technica ATR2100 microphone.

About the Audio Technica ATR2100 USB/XLR Hybrid Microphone

Bottom of ATR2100

At first glance, it is a standard cardioid mic. No different than any dynamic stage microphone. However, when you turn the microphone around, you start to see the difference and the multi-use of this mic. Simply put, the bottom houses a XLR connector, a USB connector, a volume control and a headphone jack.

This means you can plug this microphone straight into a mixing board or right into the computer. You actually can do BOTH and record to two different sources. That makes it a good microphone if you are doing a Skype record – the USB could go to the first machine and the XLR could go to the mixer and the main record.

The Specs of the Audio Technica ATR2100

The Audio Technica ATR2100 USB/XLR is a dynamic microphone with a Cardiod polar pattern. It ranges between 50 Hz – 15 kHz. The microphone records at 16 bit – 44.1 kHz or 48 kHz. It’s only 9.5 ounces so its a pretty light microphone. The ATR2100 also comes with a stand and necessary cables (no headphones). The headphone jack is 1/8″ stereo and can accept a 3-pole iPhone headset.

The Bad – Audio Technica ATR2100

There are two downfalls to the microphone – 50 Hz- 15 kHz means your “P’s” will pop and your “Ss” will hiss. With a shelf at 50 Hz, the pop sound (which is usually at 80 Hz) has no compensation around it. For instance, if I want to remove pops from my sound, I will lower 80 Hz as well as 40 Hz and 120 Hz. Its like working along side a cliff.

Avoid the POP by moving the microphone to the side of your mouth. Not directly in front.

Tip – Avoid the “POP”

If you want to avoid the pop of the microphone, have the mic not directly in front of your mouth. Instead, angle the mic toward the corner of your mouth. You are not speaking directly into the microphone, but you’re also not forcing air into the mic to make it pop so much.

Same thing with 15 kHz. If you have a higher voice (eg a female voice) or use this to mic up a guitar, this microphone might not bring out the best sound for you. This microphone might make it sound like something is missing for anything more than a male vocal.

The other issue is the ATR2100 only records in 16 bit USB. If you are recording audio that might become evergreen podcast material (saving to wav files and putting in future episodes), then you don’t want to record with the USB side of this mic. XLR is analog so its up to your mixer if it will record to 16 or 24 bit.

Overall – Audio Technica ATR2100

The overall of the Audio Technica ATR2100 USB/XLR hybrid is this microphone is a good backup. It can fit into a bag easily to be used at a moments notice. The ATR2100 is also iPad compatible (with the USB adaptor) so you can record with Garageband or another podcast app like Bossjock (iPad365 episode).

ATR2100 in box

Audio-Technica-ATR2100-HTRP

So your boss walks up to you and says he wants the company to start a podcast. He knows you are a podcaster so he wants you to do it. Great! Mixing work with pleasure can be exciting, but it can also burn you out from the thing you love. So where do you start? What is the best direction to go?

Multi-Part Series on Podcasting in Corporate Settings

I have decided to put together a few posts on the issue. This series – called “Corporation for Public Podcasting” – will be a guideline to help you podcast for your job without the job taking over your podcast. This first part is to go over the best way to get the podcast for your job started.

Corporate Podcasting

Rule #1 in Corporate Podcasting: The Regular Podcast Rules May Not Apply

Think about it. You are now getting paid to podcast. If the boss wants an hour long show, he gets it. If they want you to pimp out their product 8 times in the show, you do it. You can suggest things, but in the end you make the show to what they look for.

I really hope the boss doesn’t ask those things. Even in corporate podcasting, it can become an issue.

Ok. Now let’s get started in…

Getting the Corporate Podcast Ready

Is this Podcast for the Employees or the customers?

This is the biggest question you have to ask yourself and the boss. Is this information that only employees will listen to or will it actually be consumed by gen-pop? Its a different game if you are relaying deals to salespeople or influencing the regional office to get their numbers up than to invite the public to learn more about your company.

I did an internal “broadcast” for about a year (this was before the term podcast was around). It had HR information, sales information, a couple facts about the company and more. I enjoyed doing it – but the world wasn’t ready for this medium and were confused how to listen to it.

Plan Your Podcast – Get a Position Description Made

Get A Position Description Made

There is a good reason why you want to write up a position description. So HR knows what the heck you are doing. If someone comes up and asks “What is this person doing?” they can pull out the description and spell it out. Its also something you can put on your resume.

You could find it breaking out of your normal duties and the boss may just review your position description and re-align your duties. A good description that you can follow could just get you a raise.

You as the podcaster should write up the position description and they should edit. If you leave it up to your boss, you might not have a good description of the job. It’s really not that difficult, but it will depend on what you will be doing with the podcast. For example, the first line should state

1. Create an (audio | video) podcast once (a week | every other week) for the (employees | public) to download and listen to.  - 8 hours total

1a. Podcast to be recorded on (day of week) for publish on (day of week). - 2 hours 

1b. Podcast will be published and distributed via (method of delivery) - 2 hours

1c. Possible interview of guests - 1-2 hours

1d. Editing and mixing - 2 hours

With this outline, you have put expectation forward. Of course, this will change for how you podcast, audio or video, The length of a podcast and much more.

Rules

Set Rules of Expectation for the Podcast

One thing people don’t realize is any show needs time to grow. If you are expecting this to be consumed by the office within 2-3 weeks regularly, then you might be in for a rude awakening (unless the boss makes it mandatory).

For that, you want to set a line of expectation for you, your boss, HR and anyone else that needs to be involved. Think of it like a contract that says you get 6 months or a year to make this podcast happen (where people are listening regularly). Just like with any podcast, give people a place (such as an email address) to make suggestions or comments. Set reviews every 6-8 weeks with your boss to review the suggestions and make changes.

Don’t Let the Corporate Podcast Ruin Your Love for Podcasting

Bottom line is: don’t get burnt out where you don’t want to podcast at all. If you cannot come up with content for an hour long podcast, let the boss know and get it shortened. Walk up to employees and ask for their input or even be on the show (if possible). If you podcast by yourself in the basement of the building where no one else sees you, then you might get people that say “You do a podcast for this place?”

This should be an easier podcast to do. Heck, you might even find people that have a love for podcasting and want to help out on your own shows. Build it slow and steady and you can be a successful corporate podcaster.

Questions on Corporate podcasting? We’ll get into more as time goes by. Feel free to ask questions – geekazine@gmail.com

To think how far podcast technology has come in the past ten to fifteen years is mind-blowing. Not long ago, everything was low-quality and people were stuck at home with either headset mics or incredibly expensive setups making podcasts only available via a handful of platforms. This is no longer true. Podcasting has taken its place in society as consume-as-you-please radio that offers all sorts of commentary on a wide variety of topics, and is produced by everyone from radio professionals, to academics, to friends who want to talk shop and enjoy themselves – and all of these groups have audiences.

Podcasting Technology Jump

The Technology Jump Allows Podcasting to Evolve

Microphones are cheaper, software is free, and companies are making LTE 4G dongles that allow you to stream high-quality VOIP sessions wherever you are, so you’re no longer limited to podcasting within the safe confines of your home or studio. Podcasting has ventured out into the world, and brought back not only a huge audience, but a wealth of individuals whose valuable thoughts would have remained unrecorded otherwise.

These days, podcasting doesn’t just involve a powerful computer and a studio-level audio setup. You could even ring into a podcast via your O2 iPhone and a Skype app – it’s that simple. Whether you’re a comedy show or a political debate, quality somewhat aside for the moment, what matters is how accessible, knowledgeable and entertaining you are. It’s now as simple as recording a VOIP call for an hour and doing a little editing in GarageBand or whatever chosen software you’re using (Audacity is a good multi-platform example).

It’s also worth mentioning that all of this software is 100% free, as is submitting your podcast to iTunes. There are no financial barriers to entry when it comes to recording unless you’re talking hardware, and even then it’s possible to find headsets and mics that deliver fantastic audio for lower prices than you’d expect, though you’ll still need to throw a fair bit of cash at your setup if you want radio-quality material.

Social Distribution

Social Networking and Podcast Evolution

The other advantage podcasting has been granted as of late (relatively speaking) is Twitter, as it has allowed people not only to promote their podcasting work, but also to make connections that lead to guests coming onto the show, and lead to better research and a more engaged audience. Questions can be submitted via the platform before the show, and podcasters can engage with their audience on a personal level.

This accessibility means that podcasting isn’t just limited to people wanting to talk about videogames twice a week, either – it also means it can be brought into schools, colleges and universities. In an academic paper by Gardner Campbell titled “There’s Something in the Air: Podcasting in Education,” Campbell states that the accessibility of open-source tools like Audacity has meant that students can utilise podcasting for the benefit of their education.

Has Podcasting killed the Radio star?

Podcasting is giving the power of radio back to those who love the medium.

Podcasting now offers radio content to those who would normally not have access to the right airwaves in order to hear it. Imagine if you will a world where you couldn’t listen to BBC radio or This American Life because they were exclusive to national (or even city-wide) airwaves. Where shows like the BBC’s podcast “In Our Time” are not available to you. Such incredible sources of education on a wide variety of subjects would be locked off because you hadn’t invested in a mile high radio mast.

Podcasting defenestrates all of this with considerable passion. It’s an incredible format for broadcasting education, drama, discussion, philosophy, lectures, debates, jokes, heart-to-heart conversations and countless other approaches. Easily made, easily distributed, and open to the people thanks to leaps and bounds in technology and pricing. Podcasting is a people’s platform.

Author Bio:

Jaime Wills is a writer who focuses on anything to do with technology, art, mobile handsets and companies like Apple. She is also a keen traveller and she’s always available on Google Plus

Podcasting has Evolved. Have you?

A lot of podcasters will sit down in front of a big microphone and plant their face in the windscreen. When you are doing a video stream with the podcast, people might just see you from the nose-up. Some people feel intimidated with this; others don’t know where to position themselves when they podcast or just want to get rid of that big, bulky microphone. So how do you do it?

Is the Mic a Form of Stature?

There are some microphones that scream to be in front of your face. Whether its the classic mic like this Golden Age project R1 or more of a status mic such as the Heil PR-40. Colorful and noticeable microphones that add to your show or even give you more confidence. Those are mics that should be in front of your face. Even the new Blue Nessie Microphone has a cool look and shouldn’t be hidden in the background.

Jeff Powers talking into microphone for podcast: GoinSXSW

Where Do You Podcast

Getting the mic out of your face really depends on where you podcast. If you record in a room with little or no external noise, it’s going to be easy to get the mic away. The further away from your mouth, the more it can pick up other noises. Cranking up the gain is not the best answer – that can cause clipping, feedback (if you have computer speakers on) and all-around horrible noise.

Any microphone should be no further than 12 inches away from your mouth. Getting the mic as close as possible is the key to getting your full vocal and keeping the bumps and hisses from getting into your show.

Headset microphones

Audio-Technica BP892 Headset microphone

Have you considered a headset microphone? While it doesn’t get the mic away from your face it does make the mic smaller and less obtrusive. There are some headset mics small enough and skin colored so most people don’t even see it – like the above Audio-Technica BP892 Headset mic.

Some headset microphones just set over the ear while others come with headphones. During CES, the TPN team I work with uses Audio Technica BPHS1  for interviews. It’s great because you can hear the guests but not so great because these headsets engulf.

One problem with a headset mic: many have different results when using them. Some people don’t like headset mics because they hang on the ear. Sometimes the microphone strays from the persons mouth and you don’t get the best volume.

In the right situation they are great to keep a host hands free and laid back.

Lavaliere Microphones

MXL FR-355K Lavaliere microphone

A lavaliere microphone (aka “Lav mic”) attaches to your collar for another hands-free approach. You can get lav mics with wireless packs or wired to a phantom power mixer or battery operated. Wireless lavaliere mics are not cheap but can be well worth it if you need to move around. A good mobile unit that will run you about $170 is the Audio-Technica PRO 88W-830. This mic has a few limitations (like only 2 frequencies to select) but can be perfect for those who only use it in radio free zones (not too many wireless systems running).

The Sony UWP-V1 will run you about $550 but will allow you to conduct interviews at trade shows without crossing with other wireless units.

A popular home lav mic is this Audio-Technica ATR3350 at only $17. Another favorite is the MXL FR-355K Lav mics at $99 for 2 microphones (a omnidirectional mic and a cardioid microphone). This one connects to a mixer with phantom power, but you do get 2 microphones for a low price.

Overhead Microphones (aka Shotgun microphone)

Audix ADX40

Sometimes people want the microphone out of the shot. A hanging overhead microphone is most often used to capture a group of people, choir or a boardroom that records sessions. A mic like the Audix ADX40 would hang just above the head and out of the video shot.

When you see a video crew, sometimes they will have a boom operator. Their job is to hold a microphone on a boom stick just over people’s heads. If the operator loses grip, the boom can easily drop into a shot. For home podcasts, you could easily turn a standard microphone stand into a boom arm.

Keep in mind you still want to get the microphone as close as possible to the mouth for the best sound.

Overhead AND Lavaliere Microphone

This seems to be the best option when you don’t want the mic around but have a studio-type set to deal with. Putting a lav mic on will get the primary sound and the overhead will capture additional sounds missed. If you dual mic yourself, the overhead microphone can be further back – yet not too far or else its useless.

Some Geekazine shows use a lavaliere / overhead microphone combination

Summary – How to Ditch the Microphone in Podcasting

Getting rid of the microphone is simple to do. You can move it away from your face or get a new type of microphone altogether. If you are doing a video show, ditching the microphone can help you express yourself. You don’t have to worry about hitting a mic if there isn’t one in front of your face.

Its not for all of us. Some like to have that microphone in front of us. I have shows where there is a mic in front of my face and others where I don’t. Its all about how comfortable you are with the alternatives.

The word “Podcast” is a muddled one. There are many that use it as a general term – even though their show does not fall into the definition. Last week I got asked if Google Hangouts could be considered podcasts. Even yesterday I was asked that question again along with the question if any YouTube video falls under that term.

Definition of a Podcast

Dictionary.com defines a podcast as such:

pod·cast  [pod-kast, ‐kahst]  Show IPA Digital Technology .

noun

1. A digital audio or video file or recording, usually part of a themed series, that can be downloaded from a web site to a media player or computer: Download or subscribe to daily, one-hour podcasts of our radio show.

A lot of people state a podcast needs an RSS feed, which YouTube doesn’t really provide.

Turning a Google Hangout into a Podcast

Google+ Community: Their Answer

I polled people at Google+ Podcaster community. They had some great views on this subject. Here are some replies:

Jim CollisonIt is a means to podcasting for me. I pull down the video that is created after the hangout and create both audio only and video content that gets posted to my feeds.

Bjorn BehrendtI use it for the live stream and YouTube version, but I produce an MP3 that I use as my official podcast

Steve EasonI know of a podcast (Self Publishing Podcast) who record out of Google Hangouts and publish their podcast from that recording. I know that this isn’t exactly what you were talking about, but just thought it might be slightly relevant.

mark kelleherIn my opinion it is not a podcast, without RSS feed, it fails, in my mind to meet the very definition of a podcast. I think that it’s a useful tool for various get togethers, but in all respects, it certainly lacks the quality of a podcast. If a broadcaster chooses to use this as their medium, I’m sure that it can be fun and entertaining, primarily for those participating, but not for those listening later, but again, in my opinion, it does nothing to advance this medium and have people treat podcasts as a serious alternative to radio or TV in the case of video.

J.D. SutterI agree with +Bjorn Behrendt and +Jim Collison . Hangouts are a means to the end; without the RSS feed it’s not a podcast in my opinion.

Are Google Hangouts (or YouTube Videos) Considered a Podcast?

The answer is: Kinda, yes. Not much of a real answer, so lets break it down. YouTube uses embedding instead of RSS feeds to push their videos across. You can put a YouTube video into an RSS feed to publish.

A hangout has the option to be downloaded by the creator. You can then upload it to a server, put it in an RSS feed and send it out. You can even push the audio/video with your YouTube embed code for maximum punch.

A couple months ago I did a podcast called Goin SXSW. I ran it as a hangout, then downloaded the file, split it into an audio and video file, uploaded to my Amazon S3 account, then created the blog post – which ultimately became an RSS. I could then send my RSS to iTunes, mobile MP3 players and more.

How to Turn a Google Hangout into a Podcast Episode

1. Record the initial Google Hangout onto your YouTube account. 
2. Navigate to your Video Manager page
3. Underneath the title of the video, choose the drop-down (which says Edit).
4. Choose “Download MP4″ and save to a location on your hard drive
5. The video file is then ready to upload to a server as a video. If you want to convert to an audio podcast, you must import into a program that can convert to MP3.
6. Add your video or audio location into your post and publish

There – you now have a Google Hangout in true podcast form! People can call it up on iTunes or another podcatcher, then download it to their mobile device.

Wirecast Logo

Additional Ways to Turn Your Hangout into a Podcast

Before Hangouts on Air, I would set up two computers – one as the Hangout machine and the other as the recorder. Using Wirecast, I would push the video of the hangout to the secondary computer (with their companion program called Desktop Presenter). The audio would pass through my mixer to the secondary machine. When I was talking, I would switch to my camera, then switch to the hangout when others talked.

When the show was done, I could post up or do some post editing in Adobe Premiere before I post. I could do sound leveling, color correction or even cut out sections that make the show too long.

About a year and a half ago I did a show called The OTT in which I used this process:

Podcasting Getting Easier with Hangouts

There are great advantages to making a Google Hangout style podcast. Biggest advantage: you can get up to 9 people to come in and talk with you. Adam Sessler of Revision3 just started a podcast called Address the Sess. You can download via MP4, Theora or WebM.

There are other podcasts that are popping up using Hangouts as their primary medium. Langly’s show Robot Underpants is a weekly geek show, Music Manumit uses Hangouts but is an audio podcast. Many more exist and even more will be popping up in the future.  

Summary - Are Google Hangouts a Form of Podcast? [and How To turn into an Audio/Video Podcast]

Podcasting has gotten easier with tools like Google Hangouts. You can easily download and upload your YouTube video to another source (or post-produce it for volume leveling and color correction before you post). So is Google Hangout a form of Podcasting? What do you think? Let me know @RecordAPodcast

Can a Google Hangout Be a Podcast?

I just got off the phone with a potential client talking about podcasting and ROI (Return on Investment). I brought up the idea of a spokesperson – or evangelist for their product. I talked about in the 70′s Bill Bixby promoted the Vic-20 computer and Bill Cosby promoted the TI-99 lines. Even today celebrities like Lea Michelle promote L’Oreal, Paul Giamatti voices Liberty Mutual commercials and – even though he was fired from it – Gilbert Gottfried’s “Aflac” can still be pointed back to him.

Evangelism comes in all shapes and sizes. Here I am evangelizing the durability of a wet-nap

So you as a podcaster – are you an evangelist?

I wrote this post up on the Google+ Community asking people about it:

Topic of the Day: How important is it for you to be a Podcast Evangelist?

What I mean is out of your show, do you focus on one or two items that you excel in? For tech, are you focused more toward PC or Mac? I am told I am an evangelist for podcasting and (more to the point) Wirecast – because I have talked about it on my shows. As a drummer, I can tell you I know more about Zildjian cymbals over Paiste and Sabian. I use Zildjian cymbals on my drum set and don’t see ever switching.

So when you give your opinion, does that opinion ring throughout the show or quietly get mentioned?

A lot of people ask how they can be like +Robert Scoble . He is an evangelist for #Rackspace  . When it’s all said and done, his voice is part of a company that supports him wholeheartedly. That is how he gets from location to location and creates some great interviews.

On the same token, +Leo Laporte is an evangelist for many areas. Sure he has sponsors, but he also has people that listen for specific reasons. I am not sure of the crossovers between TWiT, iPad Today, the Tech Guy and other shows that have hosts +Tom Merritt, +Fr. Robert Ballecer, SJ , +Paul Thurrott , etc. Keeping with Leo shows, I can bet those watching TWiT are a completely different audience than those who listen or watch The Tech Guy.

Why? Because they have different tones. The Tech Guy is a show geared toward people asking one-out questions. “Long time listeners, first time callers” – sort to speak.

TWiT brings in a panel of experts to discuss topics of the week in tech. If you have no interest in that, you might just not listen to the 90 minute program.

Still, Leo is an evangelist in each of those shows. People listen to him and respect his opinion.

So I ask again, what is your evangelistic points? Do you think that being an evangelist can help you gain audience?

Podcasting has been known to be about opinion over facts. What people think of this or that instead of being agnostic to anything more than the news itself. Broadcast journalist have to hold their tongues and tell people whats going on (except for editorial departments who still don’t have a full voice because they are being redacted by the news organization).

Are YOU a podcast evangelist?

What a Podcast Evangelist can Accomplish

I don’t want to make it sound like you back a product. Its just more about what you believe in. A lot of people wondered if Sally Struthers (for example) treated Christian Children’s Fund as a job or something she believed in. Even though she was satired on shows like South Park and more recent Grey’s Anatomy, Struthers is a big supporter of what she talked about on those commercials.

Your voice can be a powerful one. Remember the old Ethan Hutton commercial? The same thing can go with being an evangelist.

What’s in Your Business Toolbox?

What’s in Your Business Toolbox? The evangelist hook

I have always asked “What’s in Your Business Toolbox” when it came to promoting a certain products that are tools for your trade. I call this a hook – . This line becomes something to make you think and imagine. Just like Capital One asking “What’s in your wallet”, or Wendy’s “Where’s the Beef”.

Hooks have been known to be powerful items of suggestion. As the Blues Traveller line goes, a hook can bring you back – I ain’t tellin you no lie. These hooks – when used right – make people think of you and the ideals you are promoting.

Do You Profit off Brand Evangelism?

Even if you are trying not to, yes you can. Let’s look at it this way: I talk highly about a candy bar; I state at the beginning that I am not getting paid to talk about it. I give a description that shows my passion toward said candy bar. You, in turn, think nothing of it – until you are faced with buying a candy bar.

Even if you don’t buy the candy bar I suggest, you do stop and think of that moment I talked about that candy bar. Heck, you might not even remember who said it for it to come to the forefront of your brain. But it got there.

Changing Your Mind – Evangelism Can Do That

A few years ago I got behind a specific product. I liked them over their competition because this company was being proactive in future technologies – i.e. they had an iPhone app and a better web interface. I spent a 18 months evangelizing this product and it was showing in the numbers and affiliate sales.

Then one day, the company changed their policy and removed their unlimited plan . I was taken back by the new model and how much a consumer would have to pay if they didn’t fall under the normal limits. I took case (to their staff) the competition (who by this time matched technologies) had an unlimited account plan. Their reply was “No they didn’t”. This came even after I showed them the page.

When they said that, I not only was taken back but I also changed my mind of this company. Even though I could have continued to make yearly commissions off the clients that used my codes, I literally stopped and ended the campaign. I had no passion to talk about them anymore.

I tried a different angle with them a few months later but I still wasn’t happy with their price plans. Keep in mind that is the only problem I have with them to this day. The competition still has an unlimited plan and they actually are doing better in the media space.

How Many Thing Can You Evangelize?

That is a tough question. I can have a good opinion on multiple items. I would say its like your daytime job – you might do a lot of stuff for your company but you excel in 3-4 items.

Sticking to 3-4 at most might prove acceptable. Remember: a good evangelist can walk up to a conversation about the item in question and be able to answer and debate any issues of the item. If you evangelize a pencil, then say something like “The lead is the most important part of a pencil”, you may get laughed out of the conversation.

Conclusion – Podcast Evangelism

Talk about what you know and what you feel comfortable talking about. Learn what you don’t know and convey those messages to your audience. They will see what you are an evangelist on. Just look at Klout: they can separate what you are most knowledgable in.

Most important, ideas can change. Be passionate of what you do and you will find people that see the passion.

When I consult podcasters that want to use 2 or mor microphones for podcasting, I recommend a mixer like the Alesis MultiMix 8. Sometimes the podcaster doesn’t want to deal with anything more than what a USB mic has to offer. So they ask if you can connect more than one USB mic to your computer to record.

The answer is you can  with a little bit of work at the beginning

AT2020 USB

How USB Microphones Work

Normally by plugging in a USB microphone you are turning that sound device into the primary. The secondary or tertiary sound source is not the default, but can be used.

16 bit vs 24 bit sound card

I covered this in the article on Cheap microphones vs. expensive. The important part is when you use multiple USB mics they all need to be at the same bitrate as the others. Its not that you cannot try using different rates but that could cause problems in the recordings. Its best to have all USB microphones at the same bitrate (most USB mic are at 16 bit but higher end ones can bump up to 24 bit).

It also depends on the computer. 24 bit mics use more resource because they are collecting more data. If you put 2-3 USB microphones into the mix, the computer might have problems keeping up or one mic might show latency over the other.

One thing to point out: Right now I am saying “Microphone” but a USB device can also be a mixer – like the M-Audio or  Edirol mixers I talked about in an earlier post. The original soundcard can also be incorporated into this process.

Which Audio Programs Can Use Multiple USB Microphones?

Even though you can connect microphones, you might not be able to use them on your program. It seems that any program that can do a multitrack record are able to record multiple USB mics. Each mic will end up taking a single channel. If you have a stereo mix then one mic will be on the left channel and one on the right.

Garageband, Adobe Audition, Audacity, Sony Acid, Cubase are some of the programs that will let you set up multiple track recording.

How to Set Up Multiple Mics for Use in Podcast – Mac

Mac Settings – Set up multiple USB mics

Keep in mind, this is Mac OS X Mountain Lion. Earlier versions settings will be slightly different. Open up the Audio MIDI Setup (In Go > Utilities > Audio MIDI Setup). You will see your input and output devices.

Plug in your USB mic and you will see it show up in this panel. The microphone can take up more than one input and output channel. That is how USB mixers will work – they could take 3-4 channels (or more) for input and output. You can then multi-record.

Here is where the magic comes in:

Create Aggregate Devices

On the bottom left – choose the + - then Create Aggregate Device (this may be in the preferences if you have an older version of OS X). A Blue plus will show up. when you select that device, you will get checkboxes on the right. Choose all your mics you want to use.

You can setup input and output devices. Keep in mind – the maximum number of input/output devices for USB is 127 (this is the limitation of the USB bus). I would guess you could go past that if you used Firewire or Thunderbolt audio devices. I am guessing 127 USB mics will take up too much resources and freeze your computer.

Drift Correction – What is it?

If the two sound devices have different sample rates, then you check drift correction so they align properly. Since most USB microphones work on the same rates, the boxes should be unchecked. If the box is checked once you add the device, make sure of its sample rate and try to match with your other devices.

How to Set Up Multiple Mics for Use in Podcast – Windows

Windows does not have a direct option. There is some software out there that will allow you to use 2 or more audio devices as one. Virtual Audio Cable is software by Eugene Muzychenko. The software is $25 (with a free trial). You can use it with multiple software including Audacity and Adobe Audition.

Virtual Audio Cable

Can I Setup Multiple USB Mics on an iPad-iPhone-iPod?

Lets put it this way – there is a 5 in 1 connector for iPad out there. This shows iPad has the ability to run more than one device at one time through the lightning port. However, the software would have to recognize there is more than one audio channel for this to work.

There is a solution out there – the Alesis IO Mix is a 4 channel audio mixer for iPad. You can connect up to 4 channels to record.

Alesis IO Mix

Out of all the options, Mac is the best to use multiple USB microphones. However, if you are planning to record more than two voices at one time, it might be better to get a mixer (usually around $100). The USB out in most mixers will allow you to record multiple separate tracks or record as one track.

Record Podcasts with Multiple USB Microphones

If you have a podcast where you use two or more mics, then might use a mixer. Recently I have been asked on the Podcasters Community about certain types of mixers. I have suggested the one that I actually have used for over 5 years now. Their latest one I might have to get for their upgrades.

Alesis Multimix 8

Alesis Multimix 8 for Podcasting

The Alesis MultiMix 8 is part of the Multimix series. Mixers from 6 to 16 channels, you can get one to fit your need.

Multimix 8 comes with 4 XLR inputs and 4 1/4 inch (TRS) inputs in shared channels. You can use microphone or instrument cables.

Insert Cables in MultiMix 8

Inserts for effects, compressor

The newer Multimix 8 comes with insert options for lines 1 and 2. With an Insert cable option, you can plug directly into an item such as a compressor or separate effects unit.

There is an overall insert option through the Aux send and return. By controlling via the send dials, you can add an overall compression, EQ or other effect to your mixer’s chain.

USB or Analog Cables

I actually have the MultiMix 8 Firewire mixer. I have used the firewire option when I want to record channels separate. The USB function can do the same thing.

Assign channels in your audio program to multi-mix. This is a great option especially for music recording so you can level out the channels before your final mix-down.

I usually use the Analog connection to a Sound Blaster card. 95% of the time I usually mix two channels – although its nice to have that alternate connection.

It’s a little dusty, but this is the Multimix I use – Firewire model

Foot Switch Effects - Alesis Multimix 8

Not really needed too much for podcasts, the MultiMix 8 has a foot switch option. This basically will turn off the DSP effects that are built into the board.

If you are a musician, then you want to turn off the echo and reverb when you are not playing a song. Therefore, you use the foot switch to turn on and off the effects as you talk – then sing.

Additions for Your MultiMix 8

If you are going to get the mixer, why not get some extra hardware to make your sound better? Here are some of my recommendations to podcasting better with the MultiMix 8:

• 4 space SKB case  - To hold the accessories
• Furman Power Conditioner with Voltmeter - Power conditioner to reduce any power hum and warn if you are stressing out the power outlet
• DBX 166xs Compressor - To level out your sound, make louder noises softer, softer noises louder and gate out extra background noise.
• ART 351 – 31 Band EQ - 31 band EQ shapes a sound better than any 3-4 dial system can. You can even take out the 80 Hz pops and 5 kHz hiss without taking out all the high end and low end.
• HOSA Cables - HOSA is my choice for patch cables. They are inexpensive and can be picked up almost anywhere. HOSA also has all the adapters you can think of.

Within my podcast rig, I have the mixer go out to the compressor, pass through the EQ and come back into the mixer. It’s called “daisy-chaining” the effects and works well to shape sound.

Overall of the MultiMix 8 USB FX

There are a few things I would like to see. The biggest is to have the first 4 channels with all the same knobs, buttons and inserts. The foot switch is a great addition for a musicians’ use. The podcaster doesn’t need all the effects on the board – but its fun to experiment. Still, the effect interface needs to be easier to use for quick switch-overs.

I think the best price of this MultiMix 8 USB FX is the price. At $119, many podcasters can afford this board.