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 | LinkedIn
• Ashley Worley | LinkedIn
• Ask Dr. Ross Podcast - YouTube

Connect with Us

• Share Feedback & Ask Questions: hello@continuingstudiespodcast.com
• Learn More: Continuing Studies Podcast
• Follow: Continuing Studies LinkedIn Page
• Join LinkedIn Group: University Podcasters Network
• Connect w/ Jen: LinkedIn or jpodcreations@gmail.com
• Connect w/ Neil: LinkedIn or neil@podiumpodcastco.com
• Twitter: @namcphedran / @podiumpodcastco
• Youtube
• HigherEdPods

Chapters:

• (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

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

• Share Feedback & Ask Questions: hello@continuingstudiespodcast.com
• Learn More: Continuing Studies Podcast
• Follow: Continuing Studies LinkedIn Page
• Join LinkedIn Group: University Podcasters Network
• Connect w/ Jen: LinkedIn or jpodcreations@gmail.com
• Connect w/ Neil: LinkedIn or neil@podiumpodcastco.com
• Twitter: @namcphedran / @podiumpodcastco
• Youtube
• HigherEdPods

Chapters:

• (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

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 | LinkedIn
• WePod project
• Podcast in the future of journalism | Roma 3 press
• The Right Kind of Family | WePod - We produce podcasts

Connect with Us

• Share Feedback & Ask Questions: hello@continuingstudiespodcast.com
• Learn More: Continuing Studies Podcast
• Follow: Continuing Studies LinkedIn Page
• Join LinkedIn Group: University Podcasters Network
• Connect w/ Jen: LinkedIn or jpodcreations@gmail.com
• Connect w/ Neil: LinkedIn or neil@podiumpodcastco.com
• Twitter: @namcphedran / @podiumpodcastco
• Youtube
• HigherEdPods

Chapters:

• (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

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 Smart
• Matt Abrahams
• Matt Abrahams | LinkedIn
• Higher Ed PodCon

Connect with Us

• Share Feedback & Ask Questions: hello@continuingstudiespodcast.com
• Learn More: Continuing Studies Podcast
• Follow: Continuing Studies LinkedIn Page
• Join LinkedIn Group: University Podcasters Network
• Connect w/ Jen: LinkedIn or jpodcreations@gmail.com
• Connect w/ Neil: LinkedIn or neil@podiumpodcastco.com
• Twitter: @namcphedran / @podiumpodcastco
• Youtube
• HigherEdPods

Chapters:

• (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

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 Productions
• MA Podcasting - Master's degree • City St George's, University of London

Connect with Us

• Share Feedback & Ask Questions: hello@continuingstudiespodcast.com
• Learn More: Continuing Studies Podcast
• Follow: Continuing Studies LinkedIn Page
• Join LinkedIn Group: University Podcasters Network
• Connect w/ Jen: LinkedIn or jpodcreations@gmail.com
• Connect w/ Neil: LinkedIn or neil@podiumpodcastco.com
• Twitter: @namcphedran / @podiumpodcastco
• Youtube
• HigherEdPods

Chapters:

• (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

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 | LinkedIn
• Great Pods | Threads | Instagram | Newsletter | Blue.Sky
• Add Your Podcast: Podcast Screener
• Newsletter & Sites: The Ultimate Guide To Getting Your Podcast Reviewed - Podcast Promotion

Connect with Us

• Share Feedback & Ask Questions: hello@continuingstudiespodcast.com
• Learn More: Continuing Studies Podcast
• Follow: Continuing Studies LinkedIn Page
• Join LinkedIn Group: University Podcasters Network
• Connect w/ Jen: LinkedIn or jpodcreations@gmail.com
• Connect w/ Neil: LinkedIn or neil@podiumpodcastco.com
• Twitter: @namcphedran / @podiumpodcastco
• Youtube
• HigherEdPods

Chapters:

• (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

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

• Share Feedback & Ask Questions: hello@continuingstudiespodcast.com
• Learn More: Continuing Studies Podcast
• Follow: Continuing Studies LinkedIn Page
• Join LinkedIn Group: University Podcasters Network
• Connect w/ Jen: LinkedIn or jpodcreations@gmail.com
• Connect w/ Neil: LinkedIn or neil@podiumpodcastco.com
• Twitter: @namcphedran / @podiumpodcastco
• Youtube
• HigherEdPods

Chapters:

• (00:00) - Introduction: Real Neil & Real Jen
• (04:45) - Higher Ed PodCon: AI Neil & AI Jen
• (09:51) - Conclusion: Real Neil & Real Jen

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 Curves
• Regina Nuzzo | LinkedIn
• Regina Nuzzo
• Kristin Sainani | LinkedIn
• Kristin Sainani (n e Cobb)'s Stanford Profile

Connect with Us

• Share Feedback & Ask Questions: hello@continuingstudiespodcast.com
• Learn More: Continuing Studies Podcast
• Follow: Continuing Studies LinkedIn Page
• Join LinkedIn Group: University Podcasters Network
• Connect w/ Jen: LinkedIn or jpodcreations@gmail.com
• Connect w/ Neil: LinkedIn or neil@podiumpodcastco.com
• Twitter: @namcphedran / @podiumpodcastco
• Youtube
• HigherEdPods

Chapters:

• (00:00) - Introduction
• (03:57) - From Teaching to Podcasting
• (05:36) - Purpose & Audience
• (07:10) - Making Science Approachable
• (09:20) - Being an Independent Podcast
• (12:11) - Pre-Launch Journey
• (14:25) - The Research Process
• (16:32) - Recording Across Time Zones
• (17:26) - Dual Roles & Production Flow
• (21:02) - Topic Inspiration
• (23:01) - Launch Strategy & Title Origins
• (25:30) - Advice for New Podcasters
• (28:25) - Storytelling vs. Lecturing
• (30:56) - Conclusion