Podcasts: Troubleshooting

Each podcast comes in three versions: Full Podcast, Audio Only and in Transcript form. If neither of the podcast versions with audio works first time around, consider taking one or more of the following steps:

1. Refresh the page, try alternate version

Media files such as audio podcasts are relatively large, and a broadband connection is recommended. If the file does not play first time, the first step is to click 'Refresh' on your browser and wait for 30 seconds to see if the file starts to load (normally indicated by the colour of the bar changing to a darker shade of grey from left to right). Alternatively, try the Full Podcast (or Audio Only) version instead, if you have not done so already.

2. Check speakers, volume level and play button

Another straightforward check is to ensure your computer has speakers either connected or built in, and that these speakers are turned on with the volume level sufficiently high to hear the sound play. Plus, don't forget to click the little play icon (normally an arrow pointing to the right), since not all computers will automatically play every type of media file.

3. Download and install QuickTime

Some media files require the free QuickTime media player from Apple. Many computers already have this installed - although it is worth making sure you have the latest version. Installing QuickTime is the single most effective way to access media on this site, since it plays most file formats. QuickTime comes with iTunes to organise your media library.

Get QuickTime with iTunes (opens new window)

4. Use a different internet browser

If you are using Internet Explorer to surf the web, now might be a good time to add the acclaimed Firefox browser to your list of options. On a Mac, use Safari or Firefox browsers. You can install more than one browser on any computer without necessarily having to change your default browser.

Get Firefox (opens new window)

5. Download then play

You may also right-click (PC) or ctrl-click (Mac) on the MP3 file links below, then select 'Save target as...' or 'Download linked file...' to save a copy of the file onto your computer. By then opening this file in the usual way (eg by double-clicking on it), your computer will automatically select the player it thinks is most likely to play the file successfully. 'Audio Only' files are in the popular MP3 format and are accessible to the overwhelming majority of users.

England & Wales: City Initiative - Clair Rees
Scotland: Sisters of the Gospel of Life - Sister Andrea Fraile

6. Talk to your IT or Network Manager

If using a computer in your workplace, or a public computer such as those in libraries or an internet cafe, there may be more levels of security or filtering in place, which can prevent you from accessing certain media. Your IT or Network Manager should be able to advise and help you.