Podcast Plugin and Recording Software
For this project, Seriously Simple Podcasting was selected because it works directly with WordPress and provides tools for publishing and organizing podcast episodes (Castos, n.d.). OBS Studio was selected because it is free. It can record audio and save it as an MP3 file (OBS Project, n.d.).
Recording and Publishing Challenges
One challenge involved configuring OBS Studio for an audio-only recording. The correct settings included selecting MP3 as the container format, disabling the video encoder, and choosing the appropriate audio encoder. The recording also contained noticeable room echo, so Adobe Enhance Speech was used to improve the sound without recording the entire podcast again (Adobe, n.d.). During the first upload attempt, WordPress rejected the audio file. Shortening the filename and removing unnecessary spaces allowed the file to upload successfully.
Benefits of Podcasting
Podcasts can benefit visitors by providing another way to experience the website’s content. Some visitors may prefer listening instead of reading a long article. Podcasts can also explain animation techniques, creative decisions, and film influences in a conversational and engaging format. Adding podcast episodes could help The Animation Shift connect with its audience while making its content more varied and accessible.
References
Adobe. (n.d.). Enhance Speech. Adobe Podcast. https://podcast.adobe.com/en/enhancespeech
Castos. (n.d.). Seriously Simple Podcasting. WordPress.org. https://wordpress.org/plugins/seriously-simple-podcasting/
OBS Project. (n.d.). OBS Studio. https://obsproject.com/