If everyone’s so hell-bent on advancing podcasting — in spite of my objections — then they should at least do it right. “Voice styling” lessons can turn the mumbliest mofo into a vocalizing powerhouse.

Vanity plays a big part in vocal-sculpting, but it’s got practical applications, too:

With so much of our lives these days conducted on the phone, vocal quality is gaining attention as a factor in making friends and influencing people. “More and more of my work is done in conference calls,” said Grace Vandecruze, 37, an investment banker in New York who has worked with Lucille S. Rubin, a veteran voice coach. “The depth of your knowledge and the impact of your voice - the two are equally important.”

Voice quality matters in face-to-face meetings, too. “Studies show that in hiring situations, two things play a big role in who gets hired: what someone looks like and the sound of their voice,” Dr. Murry said.

If it’s valuable in business, it’s valuable everywhere. Like I’ve said, the worst thing about podcasting is the incomprehensibility of the average person’s speech patterns. If they’re serious about spewing their stuff in audio form, they should counteract the inherent laziness in the approach by ensuring that their voice is as clear and distinct as possible.

I wouldn’t mind getting a consultation from a vocal coach. I know I can improve my everyday speech usage, particularly for personal interaction. And I encounter people every day who certainly can use the tune-up.