Word of the Year

The word 'Podcast,' a combination of the words 'broadcasting' and 'iPod,' has been named Word of the Year by the New Oxford American Dictionary. Defined as "a digital recording of a radio broadcast or similar program, made available on the internet for downloading to a personal audio player," the word will be added to the online version of the dictionary during the next update early next year.

Some of my favorite podcasts include:

EatFeed: The food podcast that takes you back in time, across the country, around the world, and back to your own table.

Downstage Center: A weekly theatrical interview show, featuring the top artists working in theatre both on and Off-Broadway and around the country.

The Leonard Lopate Show: Conversations with writers, actors, ex-presidents, dancers, scientists, comedians, historians, grammarians, curators, filmmakers, and do-it-yourself experts.

Studio 360: A national radio show about arts and culture, hosted by novelist and journalist Kurt Andersen and produced by Public Radio International and WNYC. Current issues, events and trends in art are a jumping off point for an exploration of ideas that aren't necessarily "news," yet are provocative and offer a lens on experience that only art can provide.

Mike Birbiglia's Secret Public Journal: Every month, comedian Mike Birbiglia travels to the far reaches of the earth. Occasionally something interesting happens. So he always brings his secret public journal.

For the coaster geeks:

CoasterRadio.com: CoasterRadio.com is a weekly podcast dedicated to roller coasters, theme parks and thrill rides.

In the Loop: Weekend Review: A weekly show that brings you an in-depth look into the amusement park industry.