GAO Launches "Watchdog Report" Podcast Series

Downloadable Audio Broadcasts Feature Interviews with GAO Officials on Significant Issues and New Reports

WASHINGTON (March 4, 2010) – As part of its ongoing efforts to utilize emerging technologies to help carry out its mission, the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) has launched an audio podcast series titled “GAO’s Watchdog Report.” These five-minute audio files feature interviews with GAO officials on significant issues and new reports, and are easily downloadable for listening on computers or mobile music devices.

“GAO is always considering new ways to make its findings and products accessible to a wide range of audiences through various media,” said Gene L. Dodaro, Acting Comptroller General of the United States and head of the GAO. “Podcasting enhances the service GAO provides to Congress and the public by offering an alternative means for people to learn about significant issues and new GAO reports and testimonies.”

To date, GAO has released five episodes of the Watchdog Report:

• March 3, 2010: On GAO’s latest review of the use and accountability of Recovery Act funding and how jobs created or retained by the Act are being reported, featuring an interview with Chris Mihm, Managing Director of Strategic Issues
• February 26, 2010: On how the Department of Defense and the Coast Guard are handling sexual assault prevention and response efforts, featuring an interview with Brenda Farrell, Director of Defense Capabilities and Management
• February 3, 2010: On key challenges facing NASA, featuring an interview with Cristina Chaplain, Director of Acquisition Sourcing and Management
• January 6, 2010: On the 2010 Census, featuring an interview with Robert Goldenkoff, Director of Strategic Issues
• January 6, 2010: On the financial condition of the U.S. Postal Service, featuring an interview with Phil Herr, Director of Physical Infrastructure

Users can listen to all episodes of GAO’s Watchdog Report podcast and subscribe to receive future episodes from a feed at GAO’s website (http://www.gao.gov/podcast/watchdog.xml). The Watchdog Report is also available free through Apple’s iTunes store.

All episodes of the Watchdog report are recorded, hosted, and produced by GAO staff, and are accompanied by a transcript to ensure compliance with Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act.

For more information, contact Chuck Young, Managing Director of Public Affairs, at 202-512-4800.

#####

The Government Accountability Office, known as the investigative arm of Congress, exists to support Congress in meeting its constitutional responsibilities. GAO also works to improve the performance of the federal government and ensure its accountability to the American people. The agency examines the use of public funds; evaluates federal programs and policies; and provides analyses, recommendations, and other assistance to help Congress make informed oversight, policy, and funding decisions. GAO’s commitment to good government is reflected in its core values of accountability, integrity, and reliability.