The Magic of Encarta

Enjoying the show? Support it here.What did it feel like to discover an entire world inside a CD-ROM? A time before Google, Wikipedia, and instant answers, when there was a different way to explore knowledge.CD-ROM encyclopedias like Microsoft Encarta turned the family computer into a doorway to somewhere much bigger. You could look up the Roman Empire, discover dinosaurs, explore a map, watch a video, and somehow end up learning about something you never intended to find.In this episode of Artifacts, Danny Brown explores the likes of Encarta and the sense of wonder they created. Not simply because they contained an enormous amount of information, but because they encouraged us to wander through it.Because finding an answer is one thing.Discovering something is another.Get InvolvedIf you enjoy Artifacts, you can support it with either a one-off tip, or become a monthly Archivist.No commitment - just a simple way to say thanks. Show your support here.If you enjoy the show, I'd love for you to leave a rating or review on your favourite podcast app!And please let your friends know they can listen for free on Apple Podcasts or their preferred podcast app, or online at Artifacts Podcast.The ArchiveThe sister newsletter to the Artifacts podcast, sharing a story that didn't quite fit into an episode, a forgotten corner of the internet I've stumbled across, or a memory that deserves preserving before it quietly fades away.Get the Artifacts NewsletterProducts I Use for ArtifactsNote: these may contain affiliate links, so I get a small percentage of any product you buy when using my link.My equipment:RODE NT1-A large diaphragm condenser micRodecaster Pro II audio production studioSony MDR-7506 Studio Monitor HeadphonesElgato Wave Mic Arm Low ProfileRecommended resources:Captivate.fm podcast hosting, distribution, analytics, and monetizationHindenburg Pro recording and editingAuphonic mastering tool for audio post productionBeehiiv email marketing

Episode metadata supplied by the publisher feed · Published Aug 14, 2026

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The Magic of Encarta

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