This paper discusses three possible ways of applying podcasts in distance education: podcasts of recordings of virtual classes, podcasts produced for specific pedagogical aims, and podcasts produced by external organizations. Through a survey we gained insight in the (until now limited) experiences of our distant students with podcasts, and also in their preferences for future applications in education. Findings indicate that students prefer podcasts that can make them study as efficiently as possible, such as podcasts with explanations of hard topics, illustrations of subject matter and feedback on assignments. Recorded virtual classes and podcasts with elective subject matter are less popular. It is claimed in literature that podcasts in which students can see and hear their instructor can reduce feelings of isolation and increase feelings of connectedness. There are no indications that our students have a distinct preference for such podcasts. [For the full proceedings, see ED562127.]