Finding the Perfect Sound: How to Choose Your Radio Station Software
In the world of digital and terrestrial broadcasting, the engine powering your station is your software. Choosing the right radio station software is more than a technical decision; it’s the backbone of your programming, the curator of your playlists, and the bridge connecting you to your audience. Whether you’re a burgeoning internet radio startup, a seasoned FM broadcaster, or a podcaster expanding into 24/7 streaming, your software dictates your workflow, capabilities, and ultimately, your sound.
This comprehensive guide moves beyond generic marketing points to provide an in-depth, practical analysis of the top platforms available. We’ll explore critical features like automation, live assist, and audio processing. Understanding the nuances of audio formats is also crucial when selecting your platform; you can dive deeper into the differences between digital audio vs. analog audio to see how file types and processing can impact your broadcast quality.
Our focus is on real-world use cases and the often-overlooked limitations of each tool. This list will help you make an informed choice that amplifies your voice and vision, ensuring your broadcast runs smoothly, professionally, and exactly as you planned. Let’s get started.
1. NextKast: The Integrated Broadcast Workhorse
NextKast establishes itself as a powerful, all-in-one solution for broadcasters who want to consolidate their workflow. Its primary advantage is bundling features that often require separate programs, like playout automation, advanced music scheduling, and even traffic and billing management. This integrated approach makes it an excellent piece of radio station software for small to medium-sized internet or LPFM stations seeking a unified operational hub without juggling multiple subscriptions.
The platform excels in automation. For instance, a community station manager can use the music scheduler to generate sophisticated rotations based on artist separation, genre, and tempo rules. Simultaneously, the traffic module can automatically insert pre-recorded sponsor spots and jingles at designated times, ensuring monetization and station branding are seamlessly integrated into the live broadcast. Setup is straightforward, but users should be prepared to dedicate time to configuring the music library and scheduling rules to leverage its full potential.
Key Features & Considerations
| Feature | Details | Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Integrated Suite | Combines automation, music scheduling, and traffic/billing. | A single operator can manage programming, ad scheduling, and invoicing from one dashboard. |
| Drag-and-Drop | Intuitive interface for managing playlists and logs. | Quickly rearrange songs or insert a last-minute news update into the broadcast hour. |
| Advanced Scheduling | Rule-based music generation (artist separation, etc.). | Prevents listener fatigue by ensuring a varied and professionally programmed music flow. |
- Pros: Comprehensive feature set, user-friendly interface, suitable for various skill levels.
- Cons: Windows-only platform, premium pricing can be a hurdle for hobbyists.
- Website: https://www.nextkast.com/
2. RadioBOSS: The Reliable Automation Powerhouse
RadioBOSS is lauded for its stability and robust automation, making it a go-to choice for broadcasters who prioritize set-it-and-forget-it reliability. It’s designed to run unattended for days or weeks, handling everything from music rotation and ad insertion to jingle playback with precision. This makes it an exceptional piece of radio station software for internet radio stations, LPFM broadcasters, and even in-store audio systems where consistent, uninterrupted playback is critical.
The software shines with its powerful event scheduler and built-in audio processing. For example, a station manager can program a «Top 40 Countdown» show to automatically start every Friday at 7 PM, complete with pre-recorded voice tracks and custom audio effects. The built-in compressor and equalizer ensure a professional, level sound across different tracks without needing external hardware. While its interface is packed with features, new users should anticipate a learning period to master its more advanced scheduling and remote control functions for maximum efficiency.
Key Features & Considerations
| Feature | Details | Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Event Scheduler | Allows for precise, time-based triggering of playlists, ads, and commands. | Automatically launching a syndicated show or a special holiday music block without manual intervention. |
| Built-in Audio Tools | Includes a compressor, equalizer, and other effects. | Ensures consistent audio levels between quiet songs and loud commercials for a polished broadcast. |
| Remote Control | Manage the station via a web interface or dedicated app. | A DJ can update a playlist or check the broadcast status from home or on the go. |
- Pros: Reliable performance with minimal user intervention, supports a wide range of audio formats, comprehensive documentation and support.
- Cons: Only available for Windows platforms, advanced features may require a learning curve for new users.
- Website: https://www.djsoft.net/enu/index.html
3. PlayoutONE: The Modular Automation Powerhouse
PlayoutONE distinguishes itself with a highly modular design, making it a favorite for stations that require a tailored setup. Instead of a one-size-fits-all package, broadcasters can select the components they need, from the core playout engine to advanced music scheduling and traffic management. This flexibility makes it an exceptional piece of radio station software for a wide spectrum of users, from growing internet stations to established multi-station FM networks that need a robust, scalable system.
The platform’s strength lies in its professional-grade features. For example, its integrated voice tracking allows a remote DJ to record and insert voice breaks into a playlist with perfect timing, making pre-recorded shows sound seamlessly live. Similarly, the system’s advanced audio processing can normalize loudness across different tracks and formats, ensuring a consistent and professional sound for listeners. While the core system is intuitive, unlocking the full potential of its more advanced modules will require a dedicated learning period.
Key Features & Considerations
| Feature | Details | Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Modular Design | Build a custom system by choosing specific modules (playout, scheduling, etc.). | A station can start with basic playout and add a traffic module later as it grows and gains sponsors. |
| Voice Tracking | Integrated tools for recording and placing voice tracks into the log. | A presenter can prepare a full day’s worth of links and announcements from a home studio. |
| Advanced Audio | Built-in processing for normalization and consistent audio levels. | Ensures that a loud rock song doesn’t jarringly follow a quiet acoustic track, providing a smooth listen. |
- Pros: Highly adaptable and scalable, user-friendly interface for core functions, powerful professional features.
- Cons: Premium pricing model may be a barrier for hobbyists, mastering advanced features can be time-consuming.
- Website: https://www.playoutone.com/
4. StationPlaylist Studio: The Live Assist Specialist
StationPlaylist Studio carves out its niche by perfecting the blend between automated playout and live-assist functionality. It is designed for broadcasters who frequently switch between pre-scheduled programming and live on-air hosting. This makes it an ideal piece of radio station software for stations with multiple DJs, talk shows, or any format that requires a human touch to interrupt an automated playlist seamlessly. Its strength lies in making these transitions feel professional and effortless.
For example, a morning show host can use the live assist mode to see the upcoming automated song list while having a bank of jingles, sound effects, and interview clips ready for instant playback. When their talk break is over, they can smoothly re-engage the automation with a single click. The software’s integrated encoder also simplifies the technical side of streaming, sending the final audio mix directly to a SHOUTcast or Icecast server without needing a separate encoding program.
Key Features & Considerations
| Feature | Details | Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Live Assist Mode | Displays upcoming automated tracks while providing instant cart players. | A DJ can talk over a song’s intro and then trigger the next automated track at the perfect moment. |
| Integrated Encoder | Built-in support for streaming to SHOUTcast and Icecast servers. | Simplifies the broadcast chain, reducing potential points of failure for an internet radio station. |
| Remote Management | Allows for control and monitoring of the station from a different location. | A station manager can check the broadcast log or make playlist adjustments from home. |
- Pros: Smooth transition between automated and live content, comprehensive audio format support, user-friendly interface.
- Cons: Not a free solution; may be expensive for smaller stations, some advanced features might be more than needed for basic operations.
- Website: https://www.stationplaylist.com/
5. Mixxx: The Open-Source DJ Booth for Broadcasters
Mixxx stands out as the premier free and open-source solution for live broadcasting, blending professional-grade DJ tools with essential streaming capabilities. Its core strength lies in providing a virtual mixing desk that is perfect for live-to-air shows, making it an ideal piece of radio station software for internet radio DJs, community stations, and producers who prioritize manual control and creative mixing over pure automation. Unlike dedicated radio automation systems, Mixxx puts the performance aspect front and center.
The platform is built for hands-on operation. A DJ hosting a live weekend dance show can use its four-deck system to seamlessly beat-match tracks, layer in acapellas or sound effects, and interact with the audience in real time. The built-in broadcasting function allows direct connection to Icecast or SHOUTcast servers, eliminating the need for a separate encoder program. While it lacks the advanced scheduling of its commercial counterparts, its power for live, dynamic programming is unmatched in the free software space.
Key Features & Considerations
| Feature | Details | Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Built-in Broadcasting | Connects directly to Icecast and SHOUTcast servers. | Stream a live DJ set directly to an internet radio station without extra software. |
| Four-Deck Mixing | Control up to four audio tracks simultaneously. | Create complex live mixes by layering instrumental, vocal, and effect tracks. |
| Controller Support | Extensive compatibility with MIDI and HID DJ controllers. | Plug in a physical deck for tactile, hands-on control over the software’s mixing functions. |
- Pros: Completely free and open-source, cross-platform (Windows, macOS, Linux), strong community support.
- Cons: Primarily a DJ tool, lacks radio automation features like ad scheduling, steeper learning curve for beginners.
- Website: https://mixxx.org/
6. mAirList: The Customizable Professional Broadcaster
mAirList positions itself as a highly flexible and powerful piece of radio station software designed for broadcasters who demand deep customization and professional-grade control. Its strength lies in its modularity and robust integration capabilities, making it a top choice for both complex terrestrial stations and sophisticated internet broadcasters who need to interface with a wide array of hardware and third-party systems. It is built for reliability in high-stakes, 24/7 environments.
The platform is particularly adept at handling live-assist operations. A morning show host, for example, can use the intuitive cartwall for instant playback of jingles and sound effects while the main playlist continues to run automatically. The advanced voice tracking tools allow for the pre-production of seamless, professional-sounding shows that can be scheduled for playback during off-hours. While its extensive feature set presents a steeper learning curve than simpler tools, the investment in time unlocks a level of operational precision that is hard to match.
Key Features & Considerations
| Feature | Details | Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| High Flexibility | Modular design allows for deep customization of the user interface and workflow. | A station engineer can configure a unique screen layout for different studios or on-air talent. |
| Hardware Integration | Extensive support for professional audio cards, mixing consoles, and remote controllers. | Connect directly to a physical mixing board for tactile control over faders and playback. |
| Voice Tracking | Advanced tools for recording voice segments over a playlist with precise audio editing. | A DJ can record an entire week’s worth of shows in a single afternoon, complete with song intros. |
- Pros: Highly customizable and flexible, suitable for both small and large stations, professional-grade features.
- Cons: Steeper learning curve for beginners, pricing may be higher than some other solutions.
- Website: https://www.mairlist.com/
7. ProppFrexx ONAIR: The Powerhouse for Multi-Channel Broadcasting
ProppFrexx ONAIR positions itself as a high-performance solution for professional broadcasters managing complex operations. Its standout capability is the support for multiple, independent playout channels from a single interface, making it an ideal choice for networks running several distinct streams or stations simultaneously. This robust platform is more than just a playout system; it’s a comprehensive piece of radio station software designed for demanding environments where precise control and advanced automation are non-negotiable.
The software shines in its technical depth. For example, a broadcaster managing a primary rock station and a secondary talk radio stream can control both from one workstation. The built-in audio processor allows real-time sound shaping for each channel, ensuring optimal audio quality without external hardware. While its extensive feature set offers immense power, new users should anticipate a learning curve to fully master its smart playlist generation and extensive metadata management tools, which are critical for maintaining a polished, professional sound across all outputs.
Key Features & Considerations
| Feature | Details | Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Multiple Playout Channels | Manage and output several independent audio streams simultaneously. | Powering a network of internet radio stations (e.g., Rock, Pop, News) from one PC. |
| Built-in Audio Processor | Includes a multi-band compressor, limiter, and equalizer. | Enhancing the audio dynamics of a live broadcast in real-time without extra gear. |
| Smart Playlist Generator | Creates playlists based on complex rules, metadata, and history. | Automatically building a daily music log that adheres to genre, tempo, and artist rotation policies. |
- Pros: Supports simultaneous streams, powerful playlist management features, user-friendly interface for its complexity.
- Cons: Pricing may be higher for smaller operations, extensive feature set can be overwhelming for beginners.
- Website: https://www.proppfrexx.radio/
8. PlayIt Live: Accessible Automation for All Levels
PlayIt Live is a highly regarded name in the broadcast community, primarily because it offers a robust, free core product that serves as an excellent entry point for new broadcasters. It provides a clean, intuitive interface that simplifies the often-complex world of radio automation. This makes it an ideal piece of radio station software for educational institutions, non-profits, or hobbyists who need professional-grade playout capabilities without an initial financial investment. The free version handles essential tasks like playlist management, scheduling, and instant playback with aplomb.
The platform’s real strength lies in its scalability. As a station grows, it can purchase premium modules for advanced functionality. For example, a community radio manager can start for free, then add the Voice Tracking module to allow DJs to pre-record their links from home. Later, they could add the Remote Management plugin to update playlists and schedules from any web browser. This modular approach ensures users only pay for the features they actively need, providing a clear and affordable upgrade path from a basic setup to a full-featured broadcast operation.
Key Features & Considerations
| Feature | Details | Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| QuickCarts | Instant-play buttons for jingles, sound effects, and ads. | A live DJ can trigger station IDs or sound effects on the fly to add energy to their show. |
| Built-in Scheduling | Create and manage playlists and program logs within the app. | Schedule an entire day’s worth of music and programming in advance for unattended operation. |
| Premium Modules | Optional add-ons for voice tracking, remote access, etc. | A growing station can purchase the remote broadcast module to enable live field reporting. |
- Pros: Free core functionality is powerful, scalable with premium modules, suitable for broadcasters at various levels.
- Cons: Only available for Windows, premium modules can be costly when combined.
- Website: https://www.playitsoftware.com/
9. SAM Broadcaster Pro: The Professional’s Streaming Powerhouse
SAM Broadcaster Pro has long been a heavyweight in the internet broadcasting arena, cementing its status as a go-to solution for serious online radio stations. It provides a comprehensive suite of tools designed for professional-grade streaming, offering robust media management, sophisticated automation, and built-in audience tracking. This makes it an ideal piece of radio station software for broadcasters who are ready to move beyond basic tools and require advanced control over their sound, programming, and listener engagement.
The platform’s strength lies in its depth. For example, an online station owner can use its advanced audio processor to apply a compressor, limiter, and EQ, ensuring a consistent and professional sound across all tracks and voice inputs. The software also allows for simultaneous streaming to multiple servers in different formats (like MP3 and AAC+), maximizing reach. While its interface is packed with features that can seem daunting at first, dedicating time to learn its intricacies unlocks a powerful broadcasting engine capable of running a 24/7 station with minimal oversight.
Key Features & Considerations
| Feature | Details | Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Advanced Audio Processing | Built-in compressor, expander, limiter, and EQ. | Ensures a polished, broadcast-quality sound without needing external hardware or plugins. |
| Multi-Format Streaming | Stream to multiple servers in MP3, aacPlus v2, and WMA formats. | Reach listeners on various devices and platforms by offering multiple stream types simultaneously. |
| Audience Analytics | Real-time and historical listener statistics. | Track listener trends, peak hours, and geographic location to better tailor content and ad campaigns. |
- Pros: Comprehensive feature set, suitable for professional broadcasters, advanced audio processing.
- Cons: Premium pricing, only available for Windows.
- Website: https://spacial.com/sam-broadcaster-pro/
10. RadioDJ: The Free Community-Powered Automator
RadioDJ stands out as a remarkably powerful and completely free radio automation solution, making it a top choice for startups, hobbyists, and non-profits. It offers a suite of advanced features often reserved for premium software, including an intricate playout system, voice tracking, and robust media management. This makes it an exceptional piece of radio station software for anyone on a tight budget who is willing to engage with a community-driven platform to build a professional-sounding broadcast from the ground up.
The platform thrives on its community. For instance, a new internet radio broadcaster can use its sophisticated category and subcategory system to organize thousands of tracks, then build rotation rules that prevent repetition. If they run into trouble setting up their Shoutcast stream, the active user forums often provide a solution within hours. While initial setup requires installing a database like MariaDB and carefully configuring paths, the payoff is a highly customizable and stable system that can run unattended for days.
Key Features & Considerations
| Feature | Details | Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Advanced Playout | Automatic track selection based on sophisticated rotation rules. | Ensures a fresh and dynamic playlist for a 24/7 internet radio stream without manual intervention. |
| Voice Tracking | Allows pre-recording and insertion of DJ voice segments. | A single host can record all their show links in one session to be automatically played between songs. |
| Community Support | Active user forums provide technical assistance and plugins. | Getting help with complex configurations or finding custom scripts to extend functionality. |
- Pros: Completely free to use, surprisingly comprehensive feature set, strong and active community.
- Cons: Windows-only (with specific version requirements), support relies entirely on community forums.
- Website: https://www.radiodj.ro/
11. Myriad 6 Playout: The Professional Studio Powerhouse
Myriad 6 Playout positions itself as a top-tier, professional broadcast solution catering to everyone from small internet stations to large commercial operations. It’s a comprehensive piece of radio station software that merges live-assist playout with deep automation, music scheduling, and innovative voice tracking capabilities. Its core strength lies in its scalability and robust feature set, designed to meet the rigorous demands of a 24/7 broadcast environment.
This platform excels at bridging the gap between automated programming and live interaction. For instance, a station manager can use its advanced scheduler to plan music and ad logs for the entire week. Later, a remote DJ can log in via a web interface to host a live show, or record voice tracks directly into the scheduled log. The inclusion of AI Voice Links for auto-generating content demonstrates a forward-thinking approach, allowing for fully automated, yet natural-sounding, station breaks. While powerful, new users should anticipate a learning curve to master its extensive professional features.
Key Features & Considerations
| Feature | Details | Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Hybrid Playout | Seamlessly switches between live-assist and fully automated broadcasting. | Run an automated overnight show that transitions smoothly into a live morning broadcast. |
| Advanced Voice Tracking | Supports local recording and web-based voice tracking. | A presenter can record their voice links for next week’s show from home using a web browser. |
| AI Voice Links | Auto-generates station IDs or weather updates using AI voices. | Automatically fill gaps in the log with dynamic, relevant content without manual recording. |
- Pros: Comprehensive feature set for professional use, scales for various broadcaster sizes, innovative AI integration.
- Cons: Pricing is not readily available on the website, may require dedicated training to utilize all features.
- Website: https://www.broadcastradio.com/
12. OpenBroadcaster: The Community Radio Champion
OpenBroadcaster stands out as a unique, open-source platform specifically engineered for community-focused radio and LPFM stations. Its web-based architecture provides remarkable flexibility, allowing station managers and volunteers to manage programming and media assets from any location with an internet connection. This makes it a powerful piece of radio station software for organizations that rely on decentralized teams or require remote access to their broadcast operations.
The platform’s strength lies in its adaptability and community-centric features. For instance, a campus radio station can leverage its multi-language support to serve a diverse student body, while its integrated emergency alert system (EAS) is crucial for remote or rural stations that act as a vital community information source. While the initial setup requires some technical knowledge, its open-source nature means a tech-savvy volunteer can customize it extensively to fit the station’s precise needs, a level of control commercial software rarely offers.
Key Features & Considerations
| Feature | Details | Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Open-Source & Web-Based | Free to use and modify, accessible via any web browser. | A non-profit can deploy a full broadcast system without software licensing costs. |
| Emergency Alert Support | Integrates with public alert and warning systems (e.g., CAP). | A community station can automatically broadcast critical weather or civil emergency alerts. |
| Multi-Language Support | The interface and metadata can be managed in multiple languages. | Broadcasters can cater to multicultural communities by scheduling content in different languages. |
- Pros: Completely free and open-source, ideal for community radio, highly customizable.
- Cons: Requires technical expertise for setup and maintenance, official support is limited compared to commercial products.
- Website: https://openbroadcaster.com/
Top 12 Radio Station Software Comparison
| Software | Core Features | User Experience | Target Audience | Unique Selling Points | Price Point |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NextKast | Scheduling, playout, audio processing | User-friendly, drag-and-drop | Beginner to pro broadcasters | All-in-one platform, podcasting | Premium pricing |
| RadioBOSS | Music/ad scheduling, internet streaming | Reliable, wide format support | Internet & terrestrial stations | Event scheduler, remote control | Paid, Windows only |
| PlayoutONE | Voice tracking, music library, remote | User-friendly, scalable | Small to large stations | Modular design, versatile | Paid |
| StationPlaylist Studio | Automated scheduling, live assist | Smooth transitions, multi-format | Radio stations | Live & automated broadcasting | Paid |
| Mixxx | Multiple decks, effects, broadcasting | Free, cross-platform | DJs and broadcasters | Free, open-source DJ software | Free |
| mAirList | Playlist mgmt, equipment integration | Professional, customizable | Small to large stations | Highly flexible, advanced features | Paid |
| ProppFrexx ONAIR | Multi-channel playout, metadata | User-friendly | Professional broadcasters | Simultaneous streams, smart playlists | Paid |
| PlayIt Live | Scheduling, voice tracking (premium) | Intuitive, scalable | Broadcasters at all levels | Free core, premium modules | Free + premium options |
| SAM Broadcaster Pro | Streaming, media mgmt, analytics | Professional | Pro internet broadcasters | Audience analytics, monetization | Premium pricing |
| RadioDJ | Voice tracking, playout, Shoutcast | Free, community supported | Windows users, hobbyists | Free, advanced automation | Free |
| Myriad 6 Playout | Live/automated playout, AI voice links | Professional-grade | Various broadcaster sizes | AI integration, web remote interface | Paid (details N/A) |
| OpenBroadcaster | Web-based, playlist mgmt, emergency alert | Customizable, open-source | Community radio/TV stations | Open-source, multi-language support | Free |
Making Your Final Selection: Matching Software to Your Station’s Soul
Navigating the landscape of radio station software can feel overwhelming, but as we’ve explored, the «best» choice is deeply personal. It’s not about finding the platform with the longest feature list, but the one that resonates with your station’s unique identity, workflow, and long-term vision. The right tool should feel like an extension of your creative and operational goals, not a hurdle to overcome.
Recapping our journey, we’ve seen a clear spectrum of options. For emerging creators, DJs, and community broadcasters, open-source powerhouses like Mixxx and RadioDJ offer incredible value. They provide robust automation and live-assist features without the financial barrier, empowering anyone with a passion for audio to get on the air. These platforms are perfect for learning the ropes and building a station from the ground up.
Key Takeaways for Your Decision
Making a final choice requires looking beyond the features and considering your specific operational reality. Here are the most critical factors to weigh:
- Automation vs. Live Assist: How much of your programming is pre-scheduled versus live? If you run a 24/7 automated stream, the scheduling logic and reliability of tools like RadioBOSS or StationPlaylist Studio are paramount. If you’re a hands-on DJ who thrives on live mixing and audience interaction, the tactile control and performance features of Mixxx or the live-assist capabilities in mAirList will be more valuable.
- Scalability and Growth: Where do you see your station in two years? A free tool like PlayIt Live is an excellent starting point, but a growing commercial station may soon need the advanced reporting, multi-station management, and sophisticated ad scheduling found in platforms like PlayoutONE or Myriad 6 Playout. Choosing software that can grow with you prevents a complicated migration down the line.
- Budget and Total Cost of Ownership: Your investment isn’t just the initial purchase price. Factor in potential costs for support contracts, paid plugins, and hardware compatibility. While SAM Broadcaster Pro has a one-time cost, a solution like mAirList offers tiered pricing that can be more manageable as you scale. Don’t underestimate the «cost» of a steep learning curve, which can take time away from content creation.
Actionable Next Steps
Theory is helpful, but hands-on experience is everything. Before you commit, take these final steps to ensure you’re making a confident and informed decision.
- Revisit Your Top 3: Based on our deep dives, narrow your choices down to your top three contenders. Create a simple comparison chart focusing on the features that matter most to your specific workflow.
- Embrace the Free Trial: Nearly every piece of paid radio station software offers a free trial period. This is the single most important step. Use this time to test the software under real-world conditions. Import your library, build a few programming clocks, and try running a mock live show.
- Test Your Workflow: Does the software feel intuitive to you? Can you schedule a week of programming without constantly referring to the manual? The best software for you will feel logical and efficient, reducing friction and freeing you up to be creative.
Ultimately, the ideal radio station software will become a reliable partner in your broadcasting journey. It will handle the technical complexities seamlessly in the background, allowing you to focus on what truly matters: curating amazing audio experiences and connecting with your audience.
Curious to hear how professional-grade software powers a real-world internet station? Check out Pod Paradise Radio, where we use sophisticated automation and playout systems to deliver a seamless 24/7 stream of the best podcasts and emerging music. Experience the end result of a well-chosen software stack by tuning in at Pod Paradise Radio.
Article created by Pod Radio
