Abstract: A disclosed method for rewarding a commentator includes enrolling the commentator to create commentary on a computer network. A sponsor is enrolled to distribute a message. The message is incorporated in the commentary created by the commentator. A fee is collected from the sponsor each time the commentary is displayed. At least a portion of the fee is provided to the commentator. The commentary may be a network post, such as a post to a thread, a blog, a newsgroup, or a bulletin board. The message may be an announcement or an advertisement. The commentary may be stored on a network server. A described network server includes a memory storing reward system software, and a processor coupled to the memory to execute the reward system software. A disclosed communication system includes a memory storing embedding software, and a processor coupled to the memory to execute the embedding software.

Abstract: Multimedia files, such as audio programming, are currently available to Internet users through a combination of their personal computer, an optional portable digital audio player, and an Internet connection. Many audio programs are now currently distributed over the Internet in a syndicated form known as a “podcast”, allowing users to access the latest version or “episode” of the program. The disclosed systems and methods provide a convenient, publicly-accessible system for allocating and using dedicated phone numbers to enable access to these programs. A person can simply place a telephone call and listen to such syndicated or otherwise distributed audio programming through the telephone network without the use of a computer or portable digital audio player.