GCast.com offers this service free of charge. It stores the file on its server and provides you with a link. You can go back and add music or effects. You can even embed a little player on your blog, so visitors can hear your voice.

Not all phones are created equal — my cell, for example, dropped syllables now and then, but my desk phone worked well. Be sure to check your school’s Acceptable Use Policy regarding creating student accounts and using student names. (”First names only” should go without saying, but students still need to be reminded.) It might be necessary to have all podcasts created through a master Teacher account.

Give it a try: pick up the phone and podcast!