Have been able to access Manager Tools 'Basic' podcasts without any problem through Internet Explorer.. When I and several of my colleagues access other podcasts in the 'Manager Tools Podcasts section, it will not play only shows that is is buffering, so wanted to find out what to do to get them to play. Thanks
I would redirect your question
Try going directly to customerservice@manager-tools.com
Are you at your work
Are you at your work location? If yes, the issue most likely is that your Network folks have blocked access to our podcast hosting service. Although the Basics casts are on OUR MT servers, most of the others are hosted on Libsyn.com. Perhaps you can get yout network folks to relax the rules a bit.
This issue comes up occasionally; unfortunately, it's outside our control.
Mike
Download, then Listen
Try downloading the MP3 file first. (Right-click on the MP3 Download icon and select Save Target as...) Then open the MP3 directly and play through a different player.
There are many, many variables at work when you're streaming the episode from the website. You want to reduce as many of the different things which could get in the way as possible. With the MP3 file as close as possible, you'll reduce the different things which could be causing the problem.
If you find that the network has blocked the server, you can always download the MP3 file using a different computer and transfer the file. If your company has a strict policy for personal devices connected to company assets, you can get an inexpensive ($10) set of speakers for your MP3 player and listen that way. They may not be loud enough to host a convention with, but grab a conference room and you're set. You'll be surprised at how quiet people can be when something important is being said. Also consider creating audio CDs with episodes so you can use a Discman or you can loan it for people to listen in their car.
I love that MT has the embedded player for episodes right in the webpages. As I'm introducing MT to people who have never heard of podcasts, I just point them to the page and tell them to hit play. When they hear the value and want more, I start introducing the idea of a podcast and downloading and subscribing to them. I've found that people rarely invest their time and effort into learning something new until they see the value on the other side. (A great introduction to the Horstman Curve.) Playing from the website is the hook to show them the value. I also have a loaner iPod in case they are still not convinced. Then when they are on the line, I spend time with them setting up their computer to subscribe and download for them. This is also the time that I transition them from the current episodes and have them go back to the Basics feed.
Jack
Colorado Springs