Continuing Studies: for Higher Ed Podcasters

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:

How formal education is transforming podcasting into a professional, industry-ready craft. Brett Spencer, senior lecturer in podcasting at City St. George's, University of London, shares how his innovative master’s program is bridging the gap between podcasting education and industry demands. With deep experience from the BBC and Spiritland Productions, Brett unpacks the practical skills students need—from media law and pitching to production and promotion—and why podcasting is more than just making a show. He also discusses groundbreaking projects like broadcasting podcasts live to cinemas and partnering with the UN, all while emphasizing the power of relationships and real-world experience in building a career in this rapidly growing field. Episode Links: Brett Spencer - BBC | LinkedInBrett Spencer • City St George's, University of LondonSpiritland ProductionsMA Podcasting - Master's degree • City St George's, University of London Connect with Us hello@continuingstudiespodcast.com Continuing Studies Podcast Continuing Studies LinkedIn PageUniversity Podcasters Network LinkedIn LinkedIn @namcphedran @podiumpodcastcoYoutubeHigherEdPods Chapters:

How Great Pods is transforming podcast discovery with critic-driven reviews and smarter categorization. Imran Ahmed—better known as “Captain Ron”—founder of Great Pods, a platform dubbed the “Rotten Tomatoes for podcasts,” joins Neil and Jen to unpack how curated, critic-led reviews are reshaping podcast discovery. Imran shares his journey from college radio to startup founder, revealing the inspiration behind Great Pods and the importance of trust, transparency, and accurate genre tagging. The conversation dives into how higher education podcasters can better position their shows, improve discoverability, and benefit from tools like Great Pods to reach wider audiences. Whether you’re new to podcasting or looking to grow your show, this episode offers thoughtful strategies for building visibility and credibility. Episode Links: Imran A | LinkedInGreat PodsThreads Instagram NewsletterBlue.SkyPodcast ScreenerThe Ultimate Guide To Getting Your Podcast Reviewed - Podcast Promotion Connect with Us hello@continuingstudiespodcast.com Continuing Studies Podcast Continuing Studies LinkedIn PageUniversity Podcasters Network LinkedIn LinkedIn @namcphedran @podiumpodcastcoYoutubeHigherEdPods Chapters:

AI Jen and Neil preview Higher Ed PodCon, where campus podcasters unite to explore the future of educational audio. Neil and Jennifer-Lee hand the mic to their AI counterparts to preview the very first Higher Ed PodCon—a brand-new conference built specifically for podcasters and digital media creators in higher education. AI Jen and AI Neil walk through what to expect: standout sessions on strategic communication, multimedia content strategies, and budget-friendly podcast production, with insights from leaders at Stanford, Purdue, and more. With over 40 speakers and representation from 25+ institutions, PodCon marks a major milestone for the campus podcasting community. After the AI segment, the real hosts return to share thoughts on the role of AI in podcasting, why human connection still matters, and how events like this help podcasters learn, grow, and feel a little less alone. Episode Links: Higher Ed PodCon Connect with Us hello@continuingstudiespodcast.com Continuing Studies Podcast Continuing Studies LinkedIn PageUniversity Podcasters Network LinkedIn LinkedIn @namcphedran @podiumpodcastcoYoutubeHigherEdPods Chapters:

How two science-savvy professors turned stats and storytelling into a compelling educational podcast. Kristin Sainani and Regina Nuzzo—co-hosts of Normal Curves: Sexy Science, Serious Statistics—join Neil McPhedran and Jennifer-Lee to celebrate the 50th episode of Continuing Studies. Kristin and Regina share the story behind launching their podcast, which blends scientific rigor with lighthearted storytelling to make complex topics like epidemiology and statistics approachable and fun. They reflect on how their long friendship, backgrounds in journalism, and love of teaching shaped the show’s voice and format. From managing remote production across time zones to navigating multiple takes and narrative arcs, they reveal the thoughtful work behind each episode. Whether you're a podcaster or just science-curious, this candid conversation offers practical insights on what it takes to produce a compelling, educational show for anyone and is passionate about podcasting in higher education. Episode Links: Normal CurvesRegina Nuzzo | LinkedInRegina NuzzoKristin Sainani | LinkedInKristin Sainani (n e Cobb)'s Stanford Profile Connect with Us hello@continuingstudiespodcast.com Continuing Studies Podcast Continuing Studies LinkedIn PageUniversity Podcasters Network LinkedIn LinkedIn @namcphedran @podiumpodcastcoYoutubeHigherEdPods Chapters:

How Purdue’s podcast expanded its reach with strategic use of video, SEO, and timely content planning. Kate Young returns to Continuing Studies to share how Purdue’s This Is Purdue podcast has grown from an alumni-focused show into a wide-reaching content hub. She breaks down the strategic shift toward video, the role of short-form clips across platforms like YouTube and Instagram, and how her team uses SEO and timely relevance to plan episodes. Kate also reveals how AI supports their prep process, and previews her upcoming talk at Higher Ed PodCon, offering practical insights for podcast teams of any size looking to elevate their content and audience engagement. Episode Links: Kate Young | LinkedIn“This Is Purdue” Podcast - The Persistent PursuitConnect with Us hello@continuingstudiespodcast.com Continuing Studies Podcast Continuing Studies LinkedIn PageUniversity Podcasters Network LinkedIn LinkedIn @namcphedran @podiumpodcastcoYoutubeHigherEdPods Chapters:

An update on the Higher Ed PodCon—where higher education podcasters will come together to connect, learn, and grow Neil McPhedran and Jennifer-Lee are joined by Gregg Oldring, original producer of the Continuing Studies podcast and creator of the Higher Ed Pods Directory, to share an inside look at the upcoming Higher Ed PodCon, happening July 12th in Chicago. Designed specifically for higher education podcasters, this inaugural one-day event features keynote speaker Matt Abrahams and three focused tracks on strategy, content, and tech tools. The trio discusses how the conference is tailored to the real-world challenges of higher ed podcasting—emphasizing collaboration over competition, growth beyond downloads, and practical skills over buzzwords. With live recordings, structured networking, and a community-focused atmosphere, Higher Ed PodCon promises to be a vibrant gathering for creators behind the mic and those working behind the scenes. Episode Links: Higher Ed PodCon Connect with Us hello@continuingstudiespodcast.com Continuing Studies Podcast Continuing Studies LinkedIn PageUniversity Podcasters Network LinkedIn LinkedIn @namcphedran @podiumpodcastcoYoutubeHigherEdPods

R2 Studios on turning serious history into compelling podcasts. Jeanette Patrick and Jim Ambuske of R2 Studios join the Continuing Studies podcast to discuss the intersection of history, storytelling, and podcasting. They share how R2 Studios was founded with a mission to democratize history through engaging audio content, supported by academic rigor and creative production. From the challenges of building a podcast network within a university setting to the importance of funding, audience development, and cross-promotion, this conversation offers a candid look at what it takes to create compelling educational podcasts. Jeanette and Jim also reflect on the power of podcasting to bring overlooked narratives to light and their vision for future projects. Episode Links: Jeanette PatrickJeannette Patrick | LinkedInJim AmbuskeJim Ambuske | LinkedInR2 Studios Connect with Us hello@continuingstudiespodcast.com Continuing Studies Podcast Continuing Studies LinkedIn PageUniversity Podcasters Network LinkedIn LinkedIn @namcphedran @podiumpodcastcoYoutubeHigherEdPods Chapters:

What if professional development was as accessible as your favorite podcast? Dr. Lindsay Persohn shares her experience as a literacy scholar, podcast host, and educator using audio to transform professional learning and classroom engagement. From founding Classroom Caffeine to launching innovative “pod clubs,” she reveals how podcasting can make research more relatable, foster autonomy for teachers, and support asynchronous, differentiated learning. With examples from her teaching and research, she demonstrates how storytelling deepens understanding, builds connection, and opens up new possibilities for integrating podcasts into academic and professional spaces. Episode Links: Lindsay Persohn | USFLindsay PersohnClassroom CaffeineEducation Through PodcastingEducation Through Podcasting - Call for Papers Connect with Us hello@continuingstudiespodcast.com Continuing Studies Podcast Continuing Studies LinkedIn PageUniversity Podcasters Network LinkedIn LinkedIn @namcphedran @podiumpodcastcoYoutubeHigherEdPods Chapters:

The future of journalism, podcasting’s role in education, and the challenge of misinformation in digital media. Carl Hartley, a journalism lecturer at the University of Leeds and a BBC Five Live journalist, delves into the rapidly changing world of journalism education and the increasing role of digital media in shaping the industry. He shares insights on how universities are adapting their programs to equip students with multimedia skills, from traditional broadcasting to podcast production and social media storytelling. Carl outlines the growing concerns around misinformation in podcasting, the debate over potential regulation, and the responsibility of content creators to uphold journalistic integrity. Drawing from his research and involvement in the Education Through Podcasting Conference, Carl discusses how podcasts are not only transforming journalism but also becoming powerful tools for education and public discourse. Episode Links: Carl Hartley | LinkedInCarl HartleySound of Politics PodcastEPOD Connect with Us hello@continuingstudiespodcast.com Continuing Studies Podcast Continuing Studies LinkedIn PageUniversity Podcasters Network LinkedIn LinkedIn @namcphedran @podiumpodcastcoYoutubeHigherEdPods Chapters:

Turning historical research into immersive audio storytelling. Daniel Story, a digital scholarship librarian at UC Santa Cruz, discusses his work in digital storytelling and podcasting as a scholarly medium. He shares insights into Stories from the Epicenter, a ten-part documentary on the 1989 Santa Cruz earthquake, and History in Focus, a podcast from the American Historical Review that brings historical scholarship to life. The conversation explores the power of narrative storytelling in academia, the role of podcasts in making scholarly work more accessible, and the importance of community engagement in historical research. The discussion highlights the role of podcasts in education, the impact of narrative storytelling, and the importance of community engagement in preserving history, showcasing how audio can deepen connections to the past and enhance learning. Episode Links: Daniel J. StoryDaniel Story | LinkedInStories from the EpicenterHistory in Focus - AHA Connect with Us hello@continuingstudiespodcast.com Continuing Studies Podcast Continuing Studies LinkedIn PageUniversity Podcasters Network LinkedIn LinkedIn @namcphedran @podiumpodcastcoYoutubeHigherEdPods Chapters:

A university podcast exploring what happens if we change, and what happens if we don’t? Monash University’s What Happens Next podcast, hosted by Dr. Susan Carland, takes on bold and complex issues, exploring the challenges shaping our world and the transformative solutions that could redefine our future. In this episode, Dr. Carland and Fabian Marrone, Monash’s Chief Marketing, Admissions, and Communications Officer, discuss the university’s approach to tackling “wicked problems” through podcasting. Together, they share the power of storytelling, academic freedom, and the impact of high-quality production in engaging a global audience. From climate change to social cohesion, the conversation highlights how their podcast serves as a voice for the entire university community, offering deep insights into the decisions that shape our collective future. Episode Links: What Happens Next? - Monash UniversityIf you don't like it, change it.Susan Carland | LinkedInFabian Marrone | LinkedIn Connect with Us hello@continuingstudiespodcast.com Continuing Studies Podcast Continuing Studies LinkedIn PageUniversity Podcasters Network LinkedIn LinkedIn @namcphedran @podiumpodcastcoYoutubeHigherEdPods Chapters:

A student-led podcast amplifying disabled students' voices in higher education. Tim Roe and Matthew Whiteman share the story behind One in Five, a podcast created by disabled students for disabled students. The name represents the one in five people in the UK who have a disability, and the show dives into their lived experiences navigating university life—from the application process to academic support and accessibility. Tim and Matthew discuss the importance of student-led storytelling, the challenges of disability diagnoses in higher education, and how their podcast became a valuable resource embedded in the UCAS system. They also reflect on what they'd do differently and the potential for future episodes. Whether you're in higher ed, podcasting, or passionate about accessibility, this conversation offers insight and inspiration. Episode Links: The One in Five Podcast | UniTasterDaysTim Roe | LinkedInMatthew Whiteman | LinkedInMatthew WhitemanOne in Five | LinkedIn Connect with Us hello@continuingstudiespodcast.com Continuing Studies Podcast Continuing Studies LinkedIn PageUniversity Podcasters Network LinkedIn LinkedIn @namcphedran @podiumpodcastcoYoutubeHigherEdPods Chapters:

Uni Taster Days redefines university decisions with authentic student voices. Jon Cheek, founder of Uni Taster Days and co-host of The Uni Guide podcast, shares his journey of creating a go-to resource for UK students exploring university options. He reveals how his podcast evolved from focusing on parents and teachers to becoming a platform driven by students, for students—putting authentic voices at the center of the conversation. From navigating the complexities of university applications to crafting a podcast that balances quality, consistency, and impact, Jon offers a wealth of insights into higher education podcasting. He discusses the importance of audience engagement, the power of listening, and the rewards of staying committed to the process, offering a useful guide for educators, podcasters, and anyone passionate about connecting with their audience in meaningful ways. Episode Links: Jon Cheek | LinkedInUniTasterDaysThe Uni Guide Podcast | UniTasterDaysThe One in Five Podcast | UniTasterDays Connect with Us hello@continuingstudiespodcast.com Continuing Studies Podcast Continuing Studies LinkedIn PageUniversity Podcasters Network LinkedIn LinkedIn @namcphedran @podiumpodcastcoYoutubeHigherEdPods Chapters:

The global impact of the Humanities Podcast Symposium and the future of scholarly podcasting. Rebecca Barry, coordinator of the Illinois Scholars at Risk Program and a passionate podcaster, joins the show to discuss the Humanities Podcast Network and its flagship event, the Humanities Podcast Symposium. Rebecca shares the network's mission to elevate podcasting as a scholarly medium and highlights the symposium’s global reach, with over 300 participants and presenters from around the world, detailing how this multi-day virtual event fosters collaboration and innovation among academic podcasters. Sha talks about the challenges of planning such an ambitious event, the evolution of podcasting as a scholarly medium, and the debate over best practices like accessibility and crediting contributors. Whether planning a podcast, a symposium, or simply curious about the future of scholarly communication, this discussion shines a light on the future of academic podcasting and community-building through shared storytelling. Episode Links: Rebecca Barry | LinkedInHumanities Podcast NetworkHumanities Podcast Network | Symposium Connect with Us hello@continuingstudiespodcast.com Continuing Studies Podcast Continuing Studies LinkedIn PageUniversity Podcasters Network LinkedIn LinkedIn @namcphedran @podiumpodcastcoYoutubeHigherEdPods Chapters:

Building a podcast network to unite voices and transform academia. Michelle Daniel shares her journey from podcasting skeptic to champion, detailing her work in creating the Texas Podcast Network at the University of Texas at Austin. Drawing on her experiences as a graduate student and musician, she recounts her unexpected entry into podcasting, driven by a desire to foster global connections through storytelling, and offers insight on building institutional buy-in, balancing content quality with audience needs, and the transformative power of podcasting as a tool for communication and collaboration in higher education. Her passion for connection and creativity underscores a vision of universities as hubs of open dialogue, bridging academic silos and reaching global communities through the medium of podcasting. Episode Links: Texas Podcast Network | The University of Texas at AustinMichelle Daniel | LinkedIn Connect with Us hello@continuingstudiespodcast.com Continuing Studies Podcast Continuing Studies LinkedIn PageUniversity Podcasters Network LinkedIn LinkedIn @namcphedran @podiumpodcastcoYoutubeHigherEdPods Chapters:

How The Virginia Audio Collective fosters creativity, collaboration, and impactful storytelling. In part two of this episode, Mary Garner McGehee and Sage Tanguay discuss The Virginia Audio Collective at the University of Virginia, showcasing how a podcast network can thrive by combining creativity, community, and collaboration. With resources from WTJU community radio and a supportive infrastructure, the collective empowers aspiring podcasters to bring their ideas to life, from concept to production. Insights include the benefits of limited series, building an audience, and fostering partnerships across campus and beyond. This episode highlights the tools, strategies, and innovative approaches that make UVA’s podcasting initiative a model for other institutions looking to amplify voices and create impactful storytelling. Episode Links: WTJUVirginia Audio CollectiveHumanities Podcast NetworkMary Garner McGehee | LinkedInSage Tanguay | LinkedIn Connect with Us hello@continuingstudiespodcast.com Continuing Studies Podcast Continuing Studies LinkedIn PageUniversity Podcasters Network LinkedIn LinkedIn @namcphedran @podiumpodcastcoYoutubeHigherEdPods Chapters: