At the journalism website, Poynter Online, Amy Gahran makes the case "Skype: Why Every Journo Should Use it."

She describes how she got stung with extra charges on her cell phone: "It was about $70 more than I expected -- because I'd exceeded my allotted minutes. Ouch. Then I realized I should have been using Skype more."

She provides the ins and outs of various Skype features and money-savings.

She notes that conversations on Skype can be recorded--an important consideration for journos. She recommends Call Recorder for Macs and Pamela for PCs.

Gahran said: "The bottom line: Skype is a useful courtesy option for journalists who work in a traditional newsroom. But for journalists who telecommute, travel to locations that offer broadband Internet access, or are self-employed, it can be a major money-saver. Even if you want to keep your landline, with Skype no long distance or international calling fees apply to calls you make. You don't need to use Skype for every call, but since journalists often can't control how many calls they'll need to make or receive, Skype can offer you more control over cell bills."

As a journo myself, I have used Skype for years.

Here's my take:

For no cost or low cost, I have extended my range of interview subjects around the world. I no longer limit myself to U.S. interviews. There's a whole world out there and talking to people outside the U.S. adds depth and texture to my stories.

Skype's money-savings have helped as well. I now make virtually all calls--local, and domestic and international long distance--on Skype. I dodge all those nasty AT&T toll bills to call downtown Chicago and faraway suburbs. But I also now routinely can make international calls without breaking the bank.

This has opened new markets for me. I no longer just work for American publications. If the pubs had to pay for international calls made on AT&T, they couldn't afford to hire me.

So journos, what are you waiting for? Check out Skype and talk to the world.