Beginning a podcast is easier than starting a radio station, but it's still hard to assemble your hardware and software, and to learn the necessary tricks of the trade. You can easily meet that challenge with the second edition of "Take Control of Podcasting on the Mac," a 118-page book that provides start-to-finish guidance from long-time podcaster Andy Affleck.

The book leads off by discussing how to plan a podcast's topic, format, and polish. Then Andy focuses on the practical details of choosing the right microphone and audio software, followed by step-by-step instructions for recording using Audio Hijack Pro, GarageBand, Sound Studio, WireTap Studio, and Ubercaster, with advice about conducting interviews by phone, iChat, and Skype.

Once your audio is in the can, Andy explains how to use audio plug-ins to make a recording sound better, complete with downloadable sound files to supplement his text. He also explains how to edit out any awkward bits, plug in additional audio, and mix tracks.

Finally, Andy covers how to encode a podcast, add useful tags and chapters, find a publishing tool, and publish your podcast for the world to hear.

"Take Control of Podcasting on the Mac" includes a coupon worth $3 off either Audio Hijack Pro or Fission. Or save $14 off both.