Although I'm a techie, I have an odd streak of Luddism when it comes to new media. I may turn out to be immune to the charm of podcasting, but that would not surprise my loved ones, in that I stopped watching television in the late 1970s.
However, in theory, I do like the idea of enabling individuals and organizations to be audio broadcasters, operating independently of traditional gatekeepers such as major networks.
Though unable to forecast whether podcasting will turn out to be the Next Big Thng, I suspect that it will greatly appeal to the generation that receives most of its news from television, talk radio, and hip hop music. This generation and its successors - unlike yours truly - is the future. Therefore, it's important to make sure that nonprofit and philanthropic organizations are briefed on the basics of podcasting, and can make an informed decision about whether it is likely to be a powerful channel of communication with stakeholders.
For a basic review of podcasting:
Wikipedia's overview article
For an introductory podcasting manual:
CampaignAudit.Org
For information on iPod, a line of digital audio players that are used for creating podcasts:
The official Apple web site
For reflections on podcasting, especially as it pertains to the digital divide:
Andy Carvin's blog, ICT Etcetera
For an introduction to podcasting for activists:
Audio Activism
For updates on smart mobs combined with mobile podcasting:
Mobcasting
For an overview of a spin-off that is developing a business model for podcasting:
Beercasting
* In the past ten years, I have been working on enhancing my audio learning by listening to National Public Radio and BBC Radio News at least a few hours each day. I've heard a lot of interesting information and commentary, but I can't boast about a high rate of retention.