Using a Podcast Directory
A podcast directory is a listing of syndication feeds that link to a podcast. They are often organized by category and topic, and allow the user to find a feed that podcasts about almost anything. Just as search engines help people find sites with the information they need, a podcast directory presents a searchable list of podcasts users can subscribe to. Users may even be able to play the available feed episodes from within the site.
Unlike most search engines, though, a podcast directory rarely searches out and finds content on its own, automatically. All the feeds are either contributed by users who want people to find their podcast, or added by the staff. Nearly anyone can set up a podcast, but gaining visitors can
be difficult, and so podcasters can submit their feeds to the directory to gain readers.
Since its so easy to make a podcast, a podcast directory often uses ways to separate the very good feeds from the ones people do not enjoy as much. A directory may have a ranking system, feature certain special feeds on the front page, or even allow visitors to comment with their thoughts on a feed.
Visitors to a podcast directory can thus add their own podcasts, search for feeds on topics or regions that interest them, and even comment on those they like or dislike.
Using a Directory of Podcast Videos
While some video feeds can be found by visiting the site that hosts them, many more are easier found by visiting a directory of podcast videos. These podcast video directories maintain listings of podcasts that have been submitted to them. They may sort the list according to region, category, and popularity, helping visitors find exactly the type of feed they are looking for.
Tech video podcasts can be found, with regular episodes about technology news. Some video feeds are experimental podcasts, created by designers interested in showcasing their work and trying out new forms of editing and storytelling. There are some feeds that recreate talk and comedy shows, with interviews every episode.
A directory of podcast videos can help anyone find new and interesting podcasts to subscribe to, and it can also help podcasters advertise their feeds. Rather than relying on word of mouth advertising and people stumbling onto the feed, a directory makes it easier for listeners to find the feed. Directories play the role that early search engines did, maintaining a list of a
relatively small group of net addresses that otherwise would not be found. After looking through a directory of podcast videos and finding a feed that is appealing, it can be subscribed to by using a podcast client. A podcast client is a computer program that checks the RSS file that stores the information about the feed and downloads the video files that the video podcast links to. The file can then be watched by the user on their computer whenever and as many times as they wish. | 
