Podcasts allow access to a wide range of subjects. Just as YouTube is visual, podcasts are audio, which makes them another practical tool to assist in lifelong learning. Both have a practical use in a library environment and would encourage independent learning. I'm sure the portability of podcasts are a major factor in their popularity and no-one need know that you are not being "cool" and listening to music! However, I am a little disappointed about the lack of Australian content. Perhaps there are Australian sites and I have yet to uncover them.