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

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• 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

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 Pursuit

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
• (03:54) - Lessons From Podcast Movement Evolutions
• (07:57) - Evolving a Video Strategy at Purdue
• (10:31) - Full Time Podcasting at Purdue
• (11:52) - Expanding Beyond Alumni: New Audience Strategy
• (15:52) - Leveraging SEO from Planning to Publishing
• (18:21) - Shorts, Reels, and Spotify Clips
• (21:31) - Why the Podcast Has Both Audio and Video Feeds
• (24:09) - Using AI for Content Calendar and Brainstorming
• (26:11) - What to Expect at Higher Ed PodCon
• (29:00) - LinkedIn Strategy Tip
• (31:34) - Conclusion

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

• 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

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 Patrick
• Jeannette Patrick | LinkedIn
• Jim Ambuske
• Jim Ambuske | LinkedIn
• R2 Studios

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
• (03:05) - Founding of R2 Studios
• (05:21) - Why Historians Are Slow to Podcast
• (06:42) - Falling into History
• (08:21) - Why Podcasting Works for History
• (10:20) - Building a History Podcast Network
• (12:34) - Production Timelines & Historical Rigor
• (14:11) - Balancing Prep and Authenticity
• (16:02) - Handling Criticism and Corrections
• (17:23) - Who Listens to History Podcasts?
• (19:21) - The Power of Podcast Networks
• (24:00) - The Challenge of Academic Funding
• (27:49) - Non-Financial Rewards & Recognition
• (31:05) - What’s Next for R2 Studios?
• (33:33) - Conclusion

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 | USF
• Lindsay Persohn
• Classroom Caffeine
• Education Through Podcasting
• Education Through Podcasting - Call for Papers

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
• (04:05) - The Origin of Classroom Caffeine
• (06:38) - Designing Conversations for Deeper Insight
• (08:29) - Embedding Podcasts into Coursework
• (11:27) - Why Audio Connects Differently
• (14:25) - What Are Teacher Pod Clubs?
• (19:03) - The Vision for Asynchronous Learning
• (21:30) - Inside the EPOD Conference
• (24:17) - Publishing Podcast-Based Research
• (28:40) - Advice for Educators Using Podcasts
• (30:31) - Conclusion

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 | LinkedIn
• Carl Hartley
• Sound of Politics Podcast
• EPOD

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
• (04:06) - Background in Journalism
• (05:25) - How Journalism is Evolving
• (09:29) - The Rise of Podcasting in Journalism
• (14:06) - Balancing Teaching and Industry Work
• (16:29) - Using Podcasts as a Teaching Tool
• (18:57) - Is Podcast Regulation Needed
• (25:11) - Podcasting Guideline Collaboration
• (30:10) - Education Through Podcasting Conference
• (34:12) - Conclusion