If you just want to start making podcasts right away from the comfort of your personal computer, get a copy of either ePodcast Producer ($249.95) or ePodcast Creator ($89.95) and a DT 234 Pro Headset ($99) and you can be the next Adam Curry.
Its pretty much everything you need. It’ll even interface with servers, deal with iTunes tagging and whatnot. A real podcasting solution.
