So, you've been asked to guest host an episode of What's the Rumpus? This guide will let you know what you need to be prepared to host.  For of all, let's talk requirements.  Adrian (who does all the editing) requires that you have the following things:

1. Headphones - They don't have to be fancy.  They just have to keep what you're hearing out of what you're recording.  Because of this, ear buds work better than open air headphones, but either is better than none.
2. Microphone - Again, this doesn't have to be fancy.  It just needs to pick up your voice.
3. Recording Software - You need some sort of recording software.  We all use Audacity because it works well and its free.  However, if you prefer a different app, feel free to use that instead.
4. Skype - This is how we connect to record the episode.  You MUST have it and you MUST let us know what your user name is so we can conference you into the call.
5. Stories - We don't care where you get them from, we don't care what you talk about, but you need to have at least 4 things to talk about.
6. A way to give Adrian access to your recording - Once finished recording Adrian will need your recording to stitch in with everyone else's.  You need to have a way to get it to him.  Website, drop.io, whatever, just plan it out ahead of time.

If you don't have all of these items, get them.  You may want the following things as well:

1. An IRC client - We're live while recording, so if you want to interact with the audience you'll need an IRC client to do so.  It also makes propagating links for stories easier.

A few pointers from the regular hosts:

1. When recording, ensure that you are recording you're mic input exclusively.  Some sound cards have a "What U Hear" or "Stereo Mix" feature which will mix you speak/headphone output in with the microphone input.  This is bad so check that it isn't what you're recording.
2. Skype, by default, has an "Automatically Adjust Mic Volume" setting: Shut it off.  If you leave it on, your volume will be inconsistent for the live broadcast.
3. Adrian has no concern for what type of file format or size you send him your recording in, as long as he can load it into Audacity.  Just remember, the smaller the file size, the quicker Adrian can get it and start editing.
4. If you feel so inclined, save your recording in Mono and 64-bit.  It makes editing a little easier.
5. Name your file something other than "RumpusXXX.mp3", put your name in it to make it unique.