Continuing Studies: Higher Ed Podcasting

What are the core skills that make a great podcast host? Before podcasting, there was broadcasting, and there’s still a lot to learn from it. This week, Neil and Jen go back to school, well, Jen's school that is. They head to BCIT’s broadcasting studios to host Jen’s former instructors, Kathryn Stewart and Kevin Ribble, now co-hosts of Ignite My Voice. Kat and Kevin share what podcast hosts can learn from broadcast training, using your breath to manage nerves on the mic, how to keep an audience engaged, storytelling & listening, and letting go of imposter syndrome. They also explore co-host dynamics, writing for audio, and how podcasting blends the discipline of radio with the freedom of conversation. It’s a fun, practical, behind-the-scenes look at the core skills that make for better podcasting—and why your voice is your most powerful tool. Episode Links: Ignite My Voice Listen to the Ignite my Voice PodcastKevin KatBCIT's Broadcasting Program Connect with Us: hello@continuingstudiespodcast.com Continuing Studies Podcast Continuing Studies LinkedIn PageUniversity Podcasters Network LinkedIn LinkedIn @namcphedran @podiumpodcastcoYoutubeHigherEdPods Chapters: Join us at Higher Ed Pod Con in Cleveland, OH, July 16 - 17 2026 Sign up by May 29 for Early Bird Pricing

What does it take to turn rigorous scientific research into stories millions of people actually want to listen to? This week, Neil and Jen sit down with Blythe Terrell, executive editor of Science Vs., to learn how one of the world’s most popular science podcasts blends deep research, narrative storytelling, and a bit of humour to reach millions of listeners. Science Vs. certainly doesn't opt for the path of least resistance, Blythe walks Jen & Neil through the realities of making a weekly narrative show and their extensive fact-checking and citation practices. The conversation also explores what higher education podcasters can learn from Science Vs.: how to build trust with audiences, how to story-tell your research, and why showing your work through transcripts and citations matters more than ever. Along the way, Blythe shares insights from teaching podcasting at NYU, working with scientists to communicate beyond academic jargon, and even collaborating on peer-reviewed research sparked by podcast episodes. It’s a thoughtful look at how podcasting can expand the reach and impact of scientific research, while having a whole lot of fun. Episode Links: Listen to Science Vs.Contact BlytheNYU's Science, Health & Environmental Reporting ProgramQueen's University Sexual Health Research LabBlue Balls & Sexual CoersionThe Orgasm Gap Connect with Us: hello@continuingstudiespodcast.com Continuing Studies Podcast Continuing Studies LinkedIn PageUniversity Podcasters Network LinkedIn LinkedIn @namcphedran @podiumpodcastcoYoutubeHigherEdPods Chapters: Join us at Higher Ed Pod Con in Cleveland, OH, July 16 - 17 2026 Sign up by May 29 for Early Bird Pricing

How can podcasting bring diverse voices and forms of academic work to a larger audience? Neil and Jen sit down with Will Brehm, creator of FreshEd, to talk about how a decade of academic podcasting has evolved from a simple interview show into a broader platform for research, storytelling, and new voices. Will shares how FreshEd grew into a multi-show network, why moving beyond English-language content matters, and what he’s learned experimenting with formats like narrative series and audio journals. The conversation digs into bigger questions, too: what it would take for podcasting to be recognized as legitimate scholarly output, how institutions can start to value non-traditional research, and why building an audience is just as important as creating the work itself. It’s a thoughtful look at where academic podcasting is today and where it needs to go. Episode Links: BioLinkedInFreshEdConnect with Us Continuing Studies Podcast Continuing Studies LinkedIn Page University Podcasters Network LinkedIn LinkedIn @namcphedran @podiumpodcastcoYoutubeHigherEdPodsHigher Ed Pod ConChapters: Join us at Higher Ed Pod Con in Cleveland, OH, July 16 - 17 2026 Sign up by May 29 for Early Bird Pricing

Can you actually study podcasting at university—and does it lead to a career? Neil and Jen talk with Chloe Sackur and Max’ed Aadan, recent graduates of the MA in Podcasting program at City St. George’s, University of London, about what it’s really like to learn podcasting in a university setting. They share how the program blends technical training, storytelling, pitching, and industry placements—and how that hands-on approach helped them move directly into podcasting careers. From a Spotify scholarship to producing a UN podcast series and industry roles after, Chloe and Max walk through the opportunities that came from the program and what surprised them most along the way. The conversation also touches on where podcasting as an industry is heading, why practical experience matters so much, and what advice they’d give anyone considering studying podcasting or trying to break into the field. Episode Links: | LinkedInChloe’s PodcastConnect with Max’ed Women’s World Equity by DesignMA Podcasting - Master's degree • City St George's, University of LondonContinuing Studies Ep 53: Class is in Session: Building the Future of Podcasting Through Education with Brett Spencer Connect with Us Continuing Studies Podcast Continuing Studies LinkedIn Page University Podcasters Network LinkedIn LinkedIn @namcphedran @podiumpodcastcoYoutubeHigherEdPodsHigher Ed Pod CoChapters:

What happens when a classroom podcast turns into peer-reviewed scholarship, an AI teaching tool, and its own academic platform? When Dave Keighron and Dr. Gelareh Farhadian first launched Innovation Fuel, the goal was simple: bring real entrepreneurial stories into the business classroom. Five years later, that idea has grown into something much bigger. In this episode, Neil and Jen catch up with Dave and Gelareh to talk about how their podcast evolved into published peer-reviewed podcast episodes and papers, and now an AI-powered classroom tool called Innovation Fuel Studio. They share how they’re turning podcast episodes into scholarly outputs, getting them into academic journals and libraries, and building a system that lets students role-play directly with AI versions of founders and CEOs. It’s a wide-ranging conversation about case-based learning, ethical AI use, peer review, and what happens when podcasting becomes part of the academic infrastructure itself. If you’ve ever wondered how a higher ed podcast can grow beyond marketing and become part of teaching, research, and innovation, this one’s worth a listen. Connect: hello@continuingstudiespodcast.com Continuing Studies Podcast Continuing Studies LinkedIn Pagewww.linkedin.com/groups/14115712/ LinkedInjpodcreations@gmail.com LinkedInneil@podiumpodcastco.com @namcphedran @podiumpodcastcoYoutubeHigherEdPodsLinks: Innovation Fuel PodcastInnovation Fuel StudioDaveGelarehMarketing Corner Talks PodcastDouglas College Library Chapters:

As universities face pressure to evolve, podcasting is emerging as an unexpected catalyst and channel for change. Carola Boehm first caught Neil’s attention with her EPOD abstract suggesting the ivory tower might be starting to crack — a bold (and maybe slightly controversial) take that kicked off this conversation about how podcasting is reshaping the way knowledge gets created and shared in higher education. So this week, Carola “schools” Neil and Jen on her “University 3.0” idea — universities losing their place as the sole gatekeepers of knowledge toward more open, collaborative learning spaces — and what podcasting has to do with that shift. The conversation also touches on the EPOD conference, pressures facing universities right now, and why even small podcasts can play a meaningful role in connecting people, ideas, and communities. Episode Links: Carola Boehm | LinkedInEPOD ConferenceCarla's 2026 EPOD AbstractEmbedding Culture 3.0 and University 3.0 in Leadership Development Programmes for Heritage Organisations and Heritage Sites (2025)Why Podcasting Needs to Lean into Culture 3.0 Connect with Us hello@continuingstudiespodcast.com Continuing Studies Podcast Continuing Studies LinkedIn PageUniversity Podcasters Network LinkedIn LinkedIn @namcphedran @podiumpodcastcoYoutubeHigherEdPods Chapters:

A thoughtful look at how podcasting is expanding the ways academic work is created and shared. Jim Ambuske, historian and producer, is back to share his thoughts on where audio is going in the academic world and what it’s going to take to have it recognized as a scholarly medium. Jim gets into his new work on the In Pursuit project, what he’s seeing in the world of digital archives and oral history, and why he believes audio and video are important ways to share academic work beyond the page. They also dig into the real challenges facing higher education right now—from funding pressures to tenure expectations—and why, even with all of that, Jim is still optimistic about what creators and institutions can build next. Episode Links: Jim AmbuskeJim Ambuske | LinkedInIn PursuitMaking History Heard: Bringing the Past to Life Through Podcasts Connect with Us hello@continuingstudiespodcast.com Continuing Studies Podcast Continuing Studies LinkedIn PageUniversity Podcasters Network LinkedIn LinkedIn @namcphedran @podiumpodcastcoYoutubeHigherEdPods Chapters:

Start your 2026 inspired and ready for what’s next in higher ed podcasting—straight from the people building it. What’s ahead for higher ed podcasting in 2026? This episode rounds up predictions from creators and educators around the world, spotlighting the trends shaping the year ahead. Hear why podcasting may gain more academic credibility, how universities could lean on audio as a PR and outreach channel, and why short mini-series and binge-drop formats are on the rise. The conversation also explores a major shift toward research storytelling that highlights process (not just results), the growing role of podcasting across the entire student lifecycle, and the ethical questions AI is bringing into production. A forward-looking listen for anyone creating podcasts in higher education. Connect: hello@continuingstudiespodcast.com Continuing Studies Podcast Continuing Studies LinkedIn Pagewww.linkedin.com/groups/14115712/ LinkedInjpodcreations@gmail.com LinkedInneil@podiumpodcastco.com @namcphedran @podiumpodcastcoYoutubeHigherEdPods Episode Links: Podcasting and Journalism: Balancing Innovation and IntegrityThe Democracy Group: The Power of a Podcast NetworkContinuing Studies: Higher Ed Podcasting | Purdue: Effectively Engaging AlumniClips, Strategy, and Search: How This Is Purdue Scales Its ReachClass is in Session: Building the Future of Podcasting Through EducationBroadcasting Without Borders: How Podcasting is Changing JournalismMaking History Heard: Bringing the Past to Life Through PodcastsSyracuse University: Podcasting the Voice of a University Chapters:

The evolution of Think Fast, Talk Smart and what it teaches higher ed about communication and connection. To close out the year, Continuing Studies revisits one of its most popular episodes — the first-ever live recording from the inaugural Higher Ed PodCon in Chicago. In this special conversation, Matt Abrahams, Stanford GSB lecturer and host of the globally acclaimed podcast Think Fast, Talk Smart, shares the remarkable evolution of his show — from its early DIY production with his sons to becoming the #1 careers podcast worldwide. With more than 68 million plays across 125 countries, Matt reflects on building community, experimenting with video, embracing AI, and transitioning to an independent platform while staying deeply audience-focused. Whether you’re a higher ed podcaster or simply passionate about meaningful communication, this “Best Of” episode offers timeless insights on creativity, connection, and the ever-evolving landscape of podcasting. Episode Links: Think Fast Talk SmartMatt AbrahamsMatt Abrahams | LinkedInHigher Ed PodCon Think Fast, Talk Live: Building a Podcast Audience Connect with Us hello@continuingstudiespodcast.com Continuing Studies Podcast Continuing Studies LinkedIn PageUniversity Podcasters Network LinkedIn LinkedIn @namcphedran @podiumpodcastcoYoutubeHigherEdPods Chapters:

How podcasting fits into modern scholarship and the evolving goals of higher education. Barry Lam—philosopher, professor, and creator of the acclaimed narrative podcast Hi-Phi Nation — joins the show to explore how audio storytelling can bridge the worlds of scholarly research and public engagement. This wide-ranging conversation traces the evolution of narrative academic podcasts, the craft behind building compelling audio stories, and how philosophy can come alive when paired with documentary-style narrative. The discussion also uncovers the shifting landscape within academia—where traditional scholarly outputs like monographs still dominate—and how podcasting is beginning to challenge those norms. Hear how one podcaster’s work reshaped a university’s hiring and tenure considerations, why public-facing scholarship matters, and what institutions must rethink to truly support creative academic work. A thoughtful conversation for anyone curious about the future of academic storytelling, the possibilities of audio as scholarship, or the evolution of higher ed podcasting. Episode Links: Hi-Phi NationBarry Lam | LinkedInBarry Lam Connect with Us hello@continuingstudiespodcast.com Continuing Studies Podcast Continuing Studies LinkedIn PageUniversity Podcasters Network LinkedIn LinkedIn @namcphedran @podiumpodcastcoYoutubeHigherEdPods Chapters:

How a podcast amplifies Black voices and their journeys of excellence at UIC. Dr. Aisha El-Amin, Executive Associate Vice Provost of Student Success and Belonging at the University of Illinois Chicago, reflects on the power of storytelling to create belonging, visibility, and momentum for students. She shares how the Black Excellence Podcast began as a 28-day project and grew into an award-winning platform that helps students see themselves in the stories of alumni, faculty, and peers. Aisha also opens up about her own journey—from military service to teaching to higher-ed leadership—and how authentic conversations can bridge gaps traditional communication often misses. Her perspective offers inspiration for anyone using podcasting to strengthen community and support student success. Episode Links: Dr. Aisha El-Amin | LinkedInLeadership | Office of Student Success and Belonging | University of Illinois ChicagoBlack Excellence | UIC today Connect with Us hello@continuingstudiespodcast.com Continuing Studies Podcast Continuing Studies LinkedIn PageUniversity Podcasters Network LinkedIn LinkedIn @namcphedran @podiumpodcastcoYoutubeHigherEdPods Chapters:

How a college podcast network builds community across the campus. Ryan Record, Podcast Network Manager at Howard Community College, shares how Dragon Media Podcasts evolved from a digital radio station into a thriving, community-driven podcast network. He discusses building a diverse slate of shows spanning student life, literature, film, and public health—each designed to connect campus and community voices. Ryan reflects on leadership transitions, creative collaboration, and the importance of vetting new shows with educational and community value in mind. He also offers practical advice for building a podcast network from the ground up, gaining institutional support, and sustaining audience engagement through social media consistency and cross-promotion. A thoughtful look at how a college podcast network aligns campus and community. Episode Links: Dragon Podcasts | Howard Community CollegeDragon Media | Howard Community CollegeRyan Record | LinkedIn Connect with Us hello@continuingstudiespodcast.com Continuing Studies Podcast Continuing Studies LinkedIn PageUniversity Podcasters Network LinkedIn LinkedIn @namcphedran @podiumpodcastcoYoutubeHigherEdPods Chapters:

A strategic new content pillar from Knowledge at Wharton, extending the brand’s reach through podcasting. Dee Patel, Director of Content in Wharton’s Marketing and Communications department, shares how her team transformed the school’s long-standing Knowledge at Wharton brand into a new podcast network designed to make faculty research more accessible. Drawing on her background in broadcasting, Dee explains how the initiative evolved from a single show, Ripple Effect, into a growing network featuring programs like This Week in Business, Marketing Matters, Moneyball, and Where AI Works. With strategic focus and creative collaboration, the team has turned academic insight into meaningful conversations that connect research, industry, and audiences beyond the classroom. Episode Links: Podcasts - Knowledge at WhartonDee Patel | LinkedIn Connect with Us hello@continuingstudiespodcast.com Continuing Studies Podcast Continuing Studies LinkedIn PageUniversity Podcasters Network LinkedIn LinkedIn @namcphedran @podiumpodcastcoYoutubeHigherEdPods Chapters:

How a campus network bridges broadcast and podcast to engage students. At BYU Radio, podcasting is reshaping how students and educators share stories of faith, creativity, and connection. Senior producer Heather Bigley offers an inside look at how a traditional university radio network transitioned toward a podcast-first model—empowering students to produce their own shows, experiment with storytelling formats, and reach audiences far beyond campus. From the interfaith conversations of In Good Faith to the youth-driven energy of Take a Leap, the conversation explores how hands-on learning, collaboration, and digital innovation are transforming higher ed media. Heather discusses the balance between mentorship and independence, the role of social media in audience engagement, and how podcasts can help young creators find purpose and build bridges in today’s diverse world. Episode Links: Heather Bigley | LinkedInBYU RadioTake a Leap - BYUradio Connect with Us hello@continuingstudiespodcast.com Continuing Studies Podcast Continuing Studies LinkedIn PageUniversity Podcasters Network LinkedIn LinkedIn @namcphedran @podiumpodcastcoYoutubeHigherEdPods Chapters:

A campus podcast that is a stage for student voices, faculty wisdom, and the spirit of community. Dr. Greg Pillar shares how The Bulldog Mindset podcast grew from an idea into a thriving campus podcast that amplifies the voices of students, faculty, and the broader Gardner-Webb community. Through thoughtful preparation, creative questions, and a commitment to authentic conversation, he reflects on lessons learned from the first season, the importance of consistency, and the surprising ways podcasting builds confidence and connection. His insights reveal how a single show can capture the energy of academic life while leaving a platform for future voices to carry forward. Episode Links: The Bulldog Mindset PodcastGreg Pillar | LinkedInGreg PillarDr. Gregory D. Pillar - Gardner-Webb University Connect with Us hello@continuingstudiespodcast.com Continuing Studies Podcast Continuing Studies LinkedIn PageUniversity Podcasters Network LinkedIn LinkedIn @namcphedran @podiumpodcastcoYoutubeHigherEdPods Chapters:

How a higher ed leader built a podcast on her own terms. Sarah Holtan, Assistant Provost of Academic Affairs at Carroll University and creator of Get Down to College Business, shares her journey as a “lone wolf” podcaster building a show outside of institutional walls. She discusses the advantages and challenges of separating her passion project from her day job, the legal and practical steps she took to protect her work, and the lessons she’s learned about setting goals, building her network, and sustaining momentum. With insights on ownership, consistency, and professional growth, this conversation offers valuable takeaways for anyone considering launching or maintaining a higher education podcast. Episode Links: Sarah Gilbert Holtan, PhD - Carroll University | LinkedInGet Down to College Business | Business & Higher Ed PodcastHigher Educational Leadership Training & College Consulting ServicesGet Down to College Business Connect with Us hello@continuingstudiespodcast.com Continuing Studies Podcast Continuing Studies LinkedIn PageUniversity Podcasters Network LinkedIn LinkedIn @namcphedran @podiumpodcastcoYoutubeHigherEdPods Chapters:

A student-teacher collaboration driving a podcast that answers real college questions and empowers students and families. Dr. Catherine Ross, professor of English at the University of Texas at Tyler and host of Ask Dr. Ross, shares her journey into podcasting and how she uses it to demystify higher education for students and parents alike. Alongside her co-host and producer, Ashley Worley, Dr. Ross tackles pressing questions about preparing for college, avoiding debt, and thriving academically while challenging common misconceptions about university life. They discuss the evolving role of podcasting in education, the power of storytelling to bridge gaps between high schools and universities, and the balance between embracing technology like AI and preserving essential writing skills. With insights on collaboration, mentorship, and the growing opportunities podcasting creates for students, this conversation offers both inspiration and practical takeaways for educators, learners, and aspiring podcasters. Episode Links: Catherine RossCatherine Ross | LinkedInAshley Worley | LinkedInAsk Dr. Ross Podcast - YouTube Connect with Us hello@continuingstudiespodcast.com Continuing Studies Podcast Continuing Studies LinkedIn PageUniversity Podcasters Network LinkedIn LinkedIn @namcphedran @podiumpodcastcoYoutubeHigherEdPods Chapters:

From broadcasting to academia, using podcasting to make research and teaching accessible. Former CBC producer and journalist Jeff Goodes shares his journey from public broadcasting to the world of higher education podcasting, offering insights on using podcasts as powerful tools for connection, storytelling, and learning. Drawing on his experience with shows like White Coat, Black Art and his work with institutions such as McMaster University, Jeff discusses how podcasts can demystify academic paths, humanize professors, and make research more accessible to students and the public. From leveraging podcasting for teaching, community building, and even fundraising, to understanding its unique ability to foster authentic human connections, this conversation offers practical inspiration for anyone looking to create meaningful impact through audio. Episode Links: Jeff Goodes - Podcasting and Communications | LinkedIn Connect with Us hello@continuingstudiespodcast.com Continuing Studies Podcast Continuing Studies LinkedIn PageUniversity Podcasters Network LinkedIn LinkedIn @namcphedran @podiumpodcastcoYoutubeHigherEdPods Chapters:

How podcasting reshapes journalism through multilingual co-productions and academic collaboration. Marta Perrotta, Associate Professor at Roma Tre University and director of Roma Tre Radio, shares how podcasting is reshaping journalism, education, and cross-cultural storytelling. From her leadership in the WePod project—a European Commission-funded initiative producing multilingual investigative podcasts—to her academic work exploring podcasting’s journalistic potential, Marta offers deep insight into the power of sound media. She also highlights her recent podcast uncovering the forgotten stories of trailblazing women in Italian radio, and reflects on how podcasting can bridge trust gaps, engage young audiences, and challenge traditional media structures. Episode Links: Marta Perrotta | LinkedInWePod projectPodcast in the future of journalism | Roma 3 pressThe Right Kind of Family | WePod - We produce podcasts Connect with Us hello@continuingstudiespodcast.com Continuing Studies Podcast Continuing Studies LinkedIn PageUniversity Podcasters Network LinkedIn LinkedIn @namcphedran @podiumpodcastcoYoutubeHigherEdPods Chapters:

Matt Abrahams, host of the globally acclaimed podcast Think Fast, Talk Smart, joins the Continuing Studies podcast in this special live episode recorded at the inaugural Higher Ed PodCon. With over 68 million plays and a reach across 125 countries, Matt shares the origin story of his show, the creative evolution behind its massive growth, and the lessons he's learned on building community, experimenting with video, leveraging AI, and staying relentlessly audience-focused. From DIY beginnings with his sons to launching "Chat Matt" and planning multilingual expansions, this candid conversation is packed with insights for anyone passionate about higher ed podcasting and meaningful communication. Episode Links: Think Fast Talk SmartMatt AbrahamsMatt Abrahams | LinkedInHigher Ed PodCon Connect with Us hello@continuingstudiespodcast.com Continuing Studies Podcast Continuing Studies LinkedIn PageUniversity Podcasters Network LinkedIn LinkedIn @namcphedran @podiumpodcastcoYoutubeHigherEdPods Chapters: