Continuing Studies: for Higher Ed Podcasters

Join our community at HigherEdPods.com and follow the Continuing Studies Podcast, as we explore the intersection of higher education and podcasting. Each episode features insights from seasoned university podcasters who share tips, best practices, and stories from their podcasting journeys. Hosted by Jennifer-Lee Gunson and Neil McPhedran, this series covers everything from the technical aspects of podcasting to the art of storytelling and conducting interviews. Continuing Studies is more than just a podcast; it's a community. Connect with fellow higher ed podcasters, share your experiences, and continue your podcasting education on HigherEdPods.com. We're also on a journey to infuse Podcasting 2.0 best practices into our show. Our goal is to try every feature to determine the best suited for higher education podcasting. We'll be sharing our learnings and reviewing new podcasting apps and hosting services embracing Podcasting 2.0. Show Website: https://www.continuingstudiespodcast.com/ Show LinkedIn Page: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/continuing-studies-podcast/

  1. How Podcasting Builds Belonging in Higher Ed

    6 OCT

    How Podcasting Builds Belonging in Higher Ed

    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 Podcast Gardner-Webb University Official Podcast Network Greg Pillar | LinkedInGreg PillarDr. Gregory D. Pillar - Gardner-Webb University  Connect with Us Share Feedback & Ask Questions: hello@continuingstudiespodcast.comLearn More: Continuing Studies PodcastFollow: Continuing Studies LinkedIn PageJoin LinkedIn Group: University Podcasters NetworkConnect w/ Jen: LinkedIn or  jpodcreations@gmail.com Connect w/ Neil:  LinkedIn or neil@podiumpodcastco.comTwitter:  @namcphedran / @podiumpodcastcoYoutubeHigherEdPodsChapters: (00:00) - Introduction (05:25) - Launching The Bulldog Mindset (07:38) - Who’s the Audience (08:37) - Student Voices: “What’s in Your Backpack?” (09:50) - Lessons from Season One (12:12) - Passing Knowledge Forward (13:27) - Developing Interview Skills (14:53) - The Team Behind the Podcast (15:48) - Building a Consistent Podcast Rhythm (17:55) - Leaving a Legacy (19:43) - Student Opportunities in Podcasting (21:37) - From Q&A to Conversation (22:50) - Giving Students a Voice (25:20) - Greg’s Broader Podcast Journey (29:15) - Conclusion

    33 min
  2. Building a Higher Ed Podcast Without Institutional Support

    22 SEPT

    Building a Higher Ed Podcast Without Institutional Support

    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 Podcast Higher Educational Leadership Training & College Consulting Services  Get Down to College Business  Connect with Us Share Feedback & Ask Questions: hello@continuingstudiespodcast.comLearn More: Continuing Studies PodcastFollow: Continuing Studies LinkedIn PageJoin LinkedIn Group: University Podcasters NetworkConnect w/ Jen: LinkedIn or  jpodcreations@gmail.com Connect w/ Neil:  LinkedIn or neil@podiumpodcastco.comTwitter:  @namcphedran / @podiumpodcastcoYoutubeHigherEdPodsChapters: (00:00) - Introduction (04:04) - Building Networks at PodCon (05:29) - Sarah’s Journey & Hats Worn (07:17) - Launching Get Down to College Business (09:01) - Lone Wolf Podcasting (13:33) - Day Job vs. Passion Project (15:37) - From Passion Project to Personal Brand (17:55) - Building Community Through EdUp (19:03) - Talking with Your Institution (22:10) - Institutional vs. Independent Podcasts (25:31) - Pro Tips for Going Solo (29:46) - Overcoming Podfade (31:33) - Monetization & Growth (34:15) - Conclusion

    37 min
  3. Schooled in Collaboration: The Power of Student-Teacher Partnerships in Podcasting

    8 SEPT

    Schooled in Collaboration: The Power of Student-Teacher Partnerships in Podcasting

    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 Ross Catherine Ross | LinkedInAshley Worley | LinkedIn Ask Dr. Ross Podcast - YouTube  Connect with Us Share Feedback & Ask Questions: hello@continuingstudiespodcast.comLearn More: Continuing Studies PodcastFollow: Continuing Studies LinkedIn PageJoin LinkedIn Group: University Podcasters NetworkConnect w/ Jen: LinkedIn or  jpodcreations@gmail.com Connect w/ Neil:  LinkedIn or neil@podiumpodcastco.comTwitter:  @namcphedran / @podiumpodcastcoYoutubeHigherEdPodsChapters: (00:00) - Introduction (04:51) - Launching Ask Dr. Ross (07:04) - Ashley’s Role & Student Involvement (08:12) - Podcasting for Student Opportunities (10:17) - Breaking Down College Misconceptions (13:29) - Changing Majors & Discovering New Paths (16:22) - Why Podcasting Works for Education (19:13) - AI in Education (24:19) - Structuring Episodes Around Questions (26:04) - Homeschooling & College Prep (28:55) - Expanding Podcasting Across the University (31:28) - The Value of Student Podcast Roles (34:55) - Leveraging YouTube for Podcast Growth (36:29) - Conclusion

    39 min
  4. From Airwaves to Academics: Leveraging Podcasts as Powerful Teaching Tools

    25 AUG

    From Airwaves to Academics: Leveraging Podcasts as Powerful Teaching Tools

    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 | LinkedInConnect with Us Share Feedback & Ask Questions: hello@continuingstudiespodcast.comLearn More: Continuing Studies PodcastFollow: Continuing Studies LinkedIn PageJoin LinkedIn Group: University Podcasters NetworkConnect w/ Jen: LinkedIn or  jpodcreations@gmail.com Connect w/ Neil:  LinkedIn or neil@podiumpodcastco.comTwitter:  @namcphedran / @podiumpodcastcoYoutubeHigherEdPodsChapters: (00:00) - Introduction (05:17) - From Broadcasting To Academia (09:04) - Humanizing Professors & Their Journeys (11:01) - Teaching Communication Through Podcasting (12:21) - Podcasts As Learning Tools (14:27) - Journey Into Academic Podcasting (18:14) - The Power Of Human Connection (20:03) - The Rise of Podcasts in Academia (23:31) - Making Research Accessible (25:13) - From Radio to Podcasting (31:02) - Audio Vs. Video In Podcasting (35:33) - Conclusion

    38 min
  5. Broadcasting Without Borders: How Podcasting is Changing Journalism

    11 AUG

    Broadcasting Without Borders: How Podcasting is Changing Journalism

    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 Share Feedback & Ask Questions: hello@continuingstudiespodcast.comLearn More: Continuing Studies PodcastFollow: Continuing Studies LinkedIn PageJoin LinkedIn Group: University Podcasters NetworkConnect w/ Jen: LinkedIn or  jpodcreations@gmail.com Connect w/ Neil:  LinkedIn or neil@podiumpodcastco.comTwitter:  @namcphedran / @podiumpodcastcoYoutubeHigherEdPodsChapters: (00:00) - Introduction (03:11) - Teaching at Roma Tre (04:48) - Podcasting vs. Radio in Higher Ed (07:23) - Cross-Border European Co-Productions (14:40) - Behind “The Right Kind of Family” Podcast (17:39) - IP Marketplace, Toolbox & Policy Goals (20:54) - Ethics in Podcasting (23:04) - Multilingual Feeds & Audience Reach (26:18) - Evaluating Cross-Cultural Impact (27:29) - Women in Radio (32:54) - Conclusion

    35 min
  6. Think Fast, Talk Live: Building a Podcast Audience

    28 JUL

    Think Fast, Talk Live: Building a Podcast Audience

    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 | LinkedIn   Higher Ed PodCon Connect with Us Share Feedback & Ask Questions: hello@continuingstudiespodcast.comLearn More: Continuing Studies PodcastFollow: Continuing Studies LinkedIn PageJoin LinkedIn Group: University Podcasters NetworkConnect w/ Jen: LinkedIn or  jpodcreations@gmail.com Connect w/ Neil:  LinkedIn or neil@podiumpodcastco.comTwitter:  @namcphedran / @podiumpodcastcoYoutubeHigherEdPodsChapters: (00:00) - Introduction (03:04) - The Origin of Think Fast, Talk Smart (04:11) - Evolving Vision and Format (05:03) - Launching with Limited Support (07:17) - Leveraging Interns and University Resources (08:40) - Growth, Reach & the Tipping Point (09:43) - Becoming an Independent Podcast (10:48) - The Shift to Video (11:46) - Video Production & Social Strategy (14:15) - What’s Next: Community & Curation (16:26) - Integrating AI in Podcasting (17:47) - Expanding Globally with Translations (19:01) - What Makes a Great Interview (19:49) - Interview Rituals and Techniques (21:03) - Handling Low-Energy Interviews (22:09) - The Final Three Questions (25:46) - Live Audience Q&A (35:10) - Conclusion

    37 min
  7. Class is in Session: Building the Future of Podcasting Through Education

    14 JUL

    Class is in Session: Building the Future of Podcasting Through Education

    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 | LinkedIn Brett Spencer • City St George's, University of London Spiritland ProductionsMA Podcasting - Master's degree • City St George's, University of London Connect with Us Share Feedback & Ask Questions: hello@continuingstudiespodcast.comLearn More: Continuing Studies PodcastFollow: Continuing Studies LinkedIn PageJoin LinkedIn Group: University Podcasters NetworkConnect w/ Jen: LinkedIn or  jpodcreations@gmail.com Connect w/ Neil:  LinkedIn or neil@podiumpodcastco.comTwitter:  @namcphedran / @podiumpodcastcoYoutubeHigherEdPodsChapters: (00:00) - Introduction (03:57) - Creating the Master’s Program in Podcasting (06:07) - Industry Needs & Course Design (07:26) - Spirit Land Productions (08:39) - Balancing Academic Teaching with Real-World Work (10:31) - Student Specializations & Studio Facilities (12:35) - The Growth of the Podcast Industry (15:21) - Teaching Media Law & Ethics (18:45) - Career Paths and Industry Placement (20:51) - Bursaries & Scholarships (22:37) - Creating a University Podcast Program (24:23) - Student Project: Podcasting for the United Nations (26:40) - The Power of Partnerships & Pitching (28:03) - Building Industry Relationships (30:06) - The Role of Video in Podcasting (34:04) - Visualizing Audio & Audience Expectations (39:26) - Conclusion

    42 min
  8. Cataloging Critiques: What Great Pods Can Teach Higher Ed Podcasters

    30 JUN

    Cataloging Critiques: What Great Pods Can Teach Higher Ed Podcasters

    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 Pods | Threads | Instagram | Newsletter | Blue.SkyAdd Your Podcast: Podcast ScreenerNewsletter & Sites: The Ultimate Guide To Getting Your Podcast Reviewed - Podcast PromotionConnect with Us Share Feedback & Ask Questions: hello@continuingstudiespodcast.comLearn More: Continuing Studies PodcastFollow: Continuing Studies LinkedIn PageJoin LinkedIn Group: University Podcasters NetworkConnect w/ Jen: LinkedIn or  jpodcreations@gmail.com Connect w/ Neil:  LinkedIn or neil@podiumpodcastco.comTwitter:  @namcphedran / @podiumpodcastcoYoutubeHigherEdPodsChapters: (00:00) - Introduction (04:29) - Building for Trust and Transparency (08:18) - The Business Behind Great Pods (09:15) - Rewriting the Rules of Podcast Categorization (12:06) - SEO Tips for Podcasters (13:32) - The Categorization Challenge for Higher Ed Podcasts (17:13) - What Makes a Great (or Bad) Review (18:42) - Protecting Against User Bombing (22:26) - Why Higher Ed Podcasters Should Join Great Pods (24:30) - Creating New Genre Possibilities (25:36) - How to Become a Podcast Critic (30:22) - Tapping into Campus Resources for Podcast Growth (32:20) - Conclusion

    35 min

Trailer

About

Join our community at HigherEdPods.com and follow the Continuing Studies Podcast, as we explore the intersection of higher education and podcasting. Each episode features insights from seasoned university podcasters who share tips, best practices, and stories from their podcasting journeys. Hosted by Jennifer-Lee Gunson and Neil McPhedran, this series covers everything from the technical aspects of podcasting to the art of storytelling and conducting interviews. Continuing Studies is more than just a podcast; it's a community. Connect with fellow higher ed podcasters, share your experiences, and continue your podcasting education on HigherEdPods.com. We're also on a journey to infuse Podcasting 2.0 best practices into our show. Our goal is to try every feature to determine the best suited for higher education podcasting. We'll be sharing our learnings and reviewing new podcasting apps and hosting services embracing Podcasting 2.0. Show Website: https://www.continuingstudiespodcast.com/ Show LinkedIn Page: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/continuing-studies-podcast/

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