I've been listening to podcasts for a couple of years now, although primarily for pleasure. Generally, they have been music related or for a laugh, like the Hamish & Andy Show – definitely one of my favourites. I have to admit it took me a while to uncover the amount of great professional knowledge & information that is out there. It's so easily accessible via iTunes as well as the web. I know they've been around for years, but I've had this conversation with several people in the last couple of weeks that suggests I was not alone in this.

I initially found that much like books and magazines, the primary challenge I had was finding the time. However, here is one of the main benefits of podcasts over books & magazines – you can enjoy podcasts without having to turn pages and occupy your hands. Of course, podcasts don't fully replace books & magazines, and I'm not suggesting that. What I am suggesting is that with some simple changes, you can integrate podcasts into your day to day life and expand your thinking.

Here are some ideas of when you can multi-task and listen to a podcast:

• Listen on your way to work – I suggest on your way to work as it's a good way of getting your mind into the 'work zone'. I find that at the end of the day, I tired (more like brain-dead) so music or laughter is normally the way to go. Listen on public transport, your walk, in the car whatever way you get to work.
• During exercise – This has turned out to be the best one for me lately. While I know most people would recommend music, I've also found a podcast episode is a really good way of zoning out at the gym when doing cardio or running outdoors. 
• While cleaning, cooking or doing things around the house – It's always great to have some background music on or the TV, but how about for 30 mins you listen to 1 episode of a podcast.
• Office admin time – If you are like me, there is a point in the week, which is generally on Friday afternoon or Monday morning when you just want to get your office/desk in order, email under control, etc. Might be a good time to multi-task for you.

Any other ideas of when is a good time to listen to podcasts?

Here's 2 marketing related podcasts I've found to be insightful and would recommend:

• Six Pixels of Separation – http://feeds.feedburner.com/SixPixelsOfSeparation
• Small Business Big Marketing – http://smallbusinessbigmarketing.com/feed/podcast/

Finding good podcasts is another story, but I'll save that for a later post.