OK so my dad requires an iPod with music/podcasting capabilites. I was recommending an ipod shuffle but he insists on a screen. what ipod should i get for him?

either a nano or classic. it depends on his personality. i think a classic woulld be better for a dad

I found my Blue Mini yesterday
GOODDDDD I love it.
Prefer it to the First and Second Generation Nanos..

But for a dad?...
Either a Nano 2nd Gen or an 80gig Classic.
Or an 8Gig touch. ;)

My dad has and likes his silver 2nd gen nano

I'd say a 3rd Gen nano because of the video capabilities. But if he's prone to dumping it and leaving it places, 2nd Gen because it's durable.

Well, if space is not a problem, and yourdad wants a screen I would recommend a 4GB iPod Nano. Does everything you need, really. Music, Video, Podcast, etc. And if he works out or something the flashed based drives are better then the Classic's HDD.