Continuing Studies: Higher Ed Podcasting

Building partnership & keeping alumni engaged through podcasting.

Katie DeFiore shares her journey from a passionate podcast listener to becoming a key player in the educational podcasting scene at Penn State. She frames the creation and development of “Dare to Disrupt,” detailing the strategic planning, marketing, and alumni engagement that have shaped its success. The conversation also explores the significance of integrating podcasting with university programs and the impact of live podcast events. Katie also provides insight into the partnership between podcasting and alumni engagement.

Episode Links:

• Katie DeFiore: LinkedIn 
• Katie DeFiore’s Podcast: Dare to Disrupt
• The Democracy Group
• Invent Penn State
• LaunchBox & Innovation Network

Connect with Us

• Share Feedback & Ask Questions: [email protected]
• Learn More: Continuing Studies Podcast
• Follow: Continuing Studies LinkedIn Page
• Join LinkedIn Group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14115712/
• Connect w/ Jen: LinkedIn or  [email protected] 
• Connect w/ Neil:  LinkedIn or [email protected]
• Twitter:  @namcphedran / @podiumpodcastco
• Youtube
• HigherEdPods

Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction
Hosts Neil McPhedran and Jennifer-Lee introduce guest Katie DeFiore, producer of the "Dare to Disrupt" podcast from Penn State.

(00:02:04) Katie DeFiore’s Journey

Katie shares her journey from student to podcast producer, including her work with the Democracy Group Podcast Network.

(00:03:34) About Dare to Disrupt

How the Dare to Disrupt podcast started, highlighting stories of Penn State alumni who are innovators and entrepreneurs.

(00:05:29) Engaging Alumni and Format Strategy

Insight into how the podcast engages alumni and integrates into the broader marketing strategy of Invent Penn State.

(00:09:24) Invent Penn State Overview

The mission and programs of Invent Penn State, including the LaunchBox and Innovation Network.

(00:11:29) Collaboration with Ryan Newman

Working with outside collaborator Ryan Newman and the importance of feedback for continuous improvement.

(00:13:35) Live Podcasting Experience

The experience and logistics of recording a live podcast episode during Penn State Startup Week.

(00:17:31) Impact of Live Episodes

The impact and feedback from the live podcast episode, and the challenges of tracking audience growth.

(00:20:00) Teaching Podcasting at Penn State

The transition from taking the first podcasting class at Penn State to teaching it, highlighting the growing interest in podcasting among students.

(00:22:37) Building a Podcasting Community

Katie’s initiative to create a Penn State Podcasting Community of Practice, fostering collaboration and support among university podcasters.

(00:25:24) Higher Ed Pods Global Community

Connecting Penn State podcasters with the global Higher Ed Pods community.

(00:26:24) Conclusion

• (00:00) - Introduction

Step inside the Yale Admissions Office with Hannah Mendlowitz and Mark Dunn from "Inside Yale Admissions Office" podcast. As senior admissions officers, Hanna and Mark share an in-depth look the innovative ways they use podcasting to demystify the college admissions process.
They discuss the motivations behind starting their podcast, its impact on various audiences including students, parents, and educational counselors; and address common misconceptions about Ivy League admissions.
The conversation also covers how their podcast serves as a tool for transparency and aids in countering misinformation spread by external admissions consultants.

Episode Links:

• Inside Yale Admissions Podcast: Website 
• Hannah Mendlowitz: LinkedIn 
• Mark Dunn: LinkedIn 

Connect with Us

• Share Feedback & Ask Questions: [email protected]
• Learn More: Continuing Studies Podcast
• Follow: Continuing Studies LinkedIn Page
• Join LinkedIn Group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14115712/
• Connect w/ Jen: LinkedIn or  [email protected] 
• Connect w/ Neil:  LinkedIn or [email protected]
• Twitter:  @namcphedran / @podiumpodcastco
• Youtube
• HigherEdPods

Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction

Hosts Neil McPhedran and Jennifer-Lee introduce guests Hanna Mendlowitz and Mark Dunn from the Inside Yale Admissions Office podcast.

(00:02:12) Role of Admissions Officers

The day-to-day roles of each guest as admissions officers at Yale.

(00:04:35) Motivation Behind Inside Yale Admissions

The origin and purpose of Inside Yale Admissions, aimed at demystifying the admissions process and making it more transparent.

(00:08:19) Audience and Impact

A discussion on the general audience of the podcast, and its impact on students, parents, counselors, and media reporters.

(00:09:48) Educational Mission and Transparency

The educational mission of the podcast to provide transparent and accessible information about admissions, inspired by recent scandals.

(00:14:41) Expanding Topics and Engaging More Audiences

Potential new topics for the podcast, including athletic recruiting and tailored content for international students.

(00:16:23) Seasonality and Episode Planning

The scheduling of the podcast’s episodes and how they align with the admissions cycle at Yale.

(00:17:46) Future Topics and Audience Feedback

Plans for future podcast episodes and how they address specific audience needs and requests.

(00:22:42) Operational Aspects of Their Podcast

Behind-the-scenes look at how the podcast is produced, including team involvement and technical setup.

(00:27:03) Conclusion

• (00:00) - Introduction

Unveiling HigherEdPods: Filling the Community & Discovery Gap. 
Join us in a special episode where we (re)introduce HigherEdPods, a community and directory dedicated to elevating higher education podcasting. Host Jennifer and producer Gregg explore how HigherEdPods serves as a new resource for higher education podcasters. Discover how this innovative platform aims to connect higher education podcasters, enhance academic podcast discovery, and foster a community where ideas and resources are shared freely among university podcast creators.

Plus, a call to Submit your favourite Higher Ed Podcast Episode

Connect with Us

• Share Feedback & Ask Questions: [email protected]
• Learn More: Continuing Studies Podcast
• Follow: Continuing Studies LinkedIn Page
• Join LinkedIn Group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14115712/
• Connect w/ Jen: LinkedIn or  [email protected] 
• Connect w/ Neil:  LinkedIn or [email protected]
• Twitter:  @namcphedran / @podiumpodcastco
• Youtube
• HigherEdPods

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction: Producer Gregg Steps In
01:33 Discussion on upcoming interviews & episodes
03:37 Gregg's learnings producing the Continuing Studies Podcast
04:43 (re)Introduction to HigherEdPods directory & community
06:26 Benefits of joining HigherEdPods & future plans
07:32 Exploring new platforms for podcast promotion
08:21 Call for Submissions: Your Favorite Higher Ed Podcast episodes
09:37 Closing Thoughts and Episode Wrap-Up

• (00:00) - Introduction: Producer Gregg Steps In

How storytelling through podcasts can enhance alumni engagement and community involvement.

Neil & Jen welcome Sarah Hillel from Alumni Podcasts to explore the opportunities to engage alumni thru podcasting. Sarah shares her extensive background in alumni relations and discusses how storytelling through podcasts can significantly enhance alumni engagement and community involvement. They delve into the benefits of integrating historical archives into podcasts, bringing to life the stories of alumni across generations. Sarah also highlights the practical uses of podcasts as tools for recruitment and professional development, illustrating their versatility with examples from different educational institutions. The episode also covers the shifting trends in media consumption among younger audiences and discusses how educational institutions can leverage these changes to foster deeper connections through audio content.

Connect with Us

• Share Feedback & Ask Questions: [email protected]
• Learn More: Continuing Studies Podcast
• Follow: Continuing Studies LinkedIn Page
• Join LinkedIn Group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14115712/
• Connect w/ Jen: LinkedIn or  [email protected] 
• Connect w/ Neil:  LinkedIn or [email protected]
• Twitter:  @namcphedran / @podiumpodcastco
• Youtube
• HigherEdPods

Episode Reference Links:

• The Infinite Dial - Edison Research (Research project on podcasts Sarah discusses)
• Alumni Podcasts (Sarah’s podcast agency)
• Sarah Hillel - LinkedIn
• King Alfred - Alfredian Voices
• Management Meets Podcast (University of Bath)
• Equity In Every Drop Podcast (Waterkeeper Alliance)
• After Aston I... Podcast (Aston University)

Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction 

Hosts Neil McPhedran and Jennifer Lee introduce guest Sarah Hillel from Alumni Podcast.

(00:02:01) Background and Evolution of Alumni Podcasting

Sarah Hillel discusses her background in alumni relations and the transition to alumni podcasting.

(00:05:10) The Power of Storytelling in Educational Institutions

The importance of storytelling in education and how institutions can utilize podcasts to connect with alumni.

(00:07:34) Learning from Alumni Experiences

The value of sharing alumni experiences of failures and successes and how these stories can inspire and guide current students.

(00:14:39) Pirate Radio and Personal Stories

Sarah shares her unique experiences with pirate radio and other personal anecdotes.

(00:17:48) The Expanding Reach of Podcasts in Higher Education

Research findings on podcast demographics and the strategic incorporation of podcasting in media planning for higher education.

(00:19:57) The Multifunctionality of Podcasts

How podcasts can be repurposed into multiple content formats enhancing outreach and engagement

(00:23:32) The Future of Podcasting and Audio Content

The enduring relevance of audio content and its integration with modern technology and the potential evolution of podcasting in educational contexts.

(00:27:53) Conclusion

• (00:00) - Introduction

Evolving Academic Content: Insights into private podcasting's applications and benefits for higher education podcasts.

In part two of their conversation with Transistor.fm co-founder Justin Jackson, hosts Neil McPhedran and Jennifer-Lee explore the dynamic world of private podcasts and their transformative potential in higher education. Justin shares compelling uses of private podcasts for internal communications and educational content, alongside personal reflections on his podcasting journey.
Additionally, we introduce a new initiative: Higher Ed Pods, a community and discovery engine for higher education podcasts, encouraging knowledge sharing and collaboration.

Connect with Us

• Share Feedback & Ask Questions: [email protected]
• Learn More: Continuing Studies Podcast
• Follow: Continuing Studies LinkedIn Page
• Join LinkedIn Group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14115712/
• Connect w/ Jen: LinkedIn or  [email protected] 
• Connect w/ Neil:  LinkedIn or [email protected]
• Twitter:  @namcphedran / @podiumpodcastco
• Youtube
• HigherEdPods

Episode Reference Links:

• Justin Jackson  (Justin Jackson’s Website)
• HigherEdPods
• Email Gregg Higher Ed Pod questions: [email protected]
• Podcast Marketing Trends Explained (Justin and Jeremy’s Podcast)
• Transistor.fm 
• Jeremy Enns  (Jeremy Enn’s Website)

Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction

Hosts Neil McPhedran and Jennifer-Lee introduce the episode, part two of their discussion with Transistor.fm’s Justin Jackson, focused on private podcasts.

(00:02:17) Understanding Private Podcasts

What private podcasts are and how Transistor.fm facilitates their use, including unique features like QR code access and personalised RSS feeds for subscribers.

(00:04:27) Private Podcasts in Education

Innovative uses of private podcasts, including as a format for distributing audiobooks and supplementary material for textbooks.

(00:06:45) Personal Connection to Podcasting

Justin’s personal journey with podcasting, from childhood inspirations to creating a podcast hosting platform.

(00:09:41) Podcast Marketing Trends and Quality Improvement

Justin discusses his new podcast Podcast Marketing Trends Explained, and the importance of production quality and content to stand out within the podcasting community.

(00:13:14) Bonus: Introduction to Higher Ed Pods

Gregg Oldring joins to introduce a new project, Higher Ed Pods: a community and discovery engine for higher education podcasters.

(00:16:20) Conclusion

• (00:00) - Episode Intro

A deep dive into the foundational aspects of podcasting.

A comprehensive discussion with Justin Jackson, the co-founder of Transistor.fm as they deep dive into the foundational aspects of podcasting, including the magic behind RSS feeds, the variety and purpose of podcast hosting platforms, and the art of engaging your listeners with quality content. Justin shares invaluable insights from the front lines of podcast hosting, touching on the philosophies that drive successful podcasting and the strategies that can make or break your show. Whether you're in higher education looking to expand your digital footprint or a podcasting enthusiast eager to refine your craft, this discussion offers practical advice, creative strategies, and a behind-the-scenes look at the mechanics of podcasting that could change how you approach your next episode.

Connect with Us

• Learn More: Continuing Studies Podcast
• Follow: Continuing Studies LinkedIn Page
• Connect w/ Jen: LinkedIn or  [email protected] 
• Connect w/ Neil:  LinkedIn or [email protected]
• Twitter:  @namcphedran / @podiumpodcastco
• Youtube

Episode Reference Links:

• Justin Jackson  (Justin Jackson’s Website)
• Podcast Marketing Trends Explained (Justin's podcast)
• Transistor.fm 
• WTF with Marc Maron Podcast  (Podcast Justin Jackson enjoys)

Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction

Hosts Neil McPhedran and Jennifer-Lee introduce episode and guest Justin Jackson, co-founder of Transistor.fm.

(00:01:46) The Role of RSS Feeds in Podcasting

An explanation of RSS feeds, their function in podcast distribution, and decentralized nature.

(00:04:13) The Power of Podcast Hosting Platforms

Exploring podcast hosting platforms, their variety, and significance in the podcasting ecosystem.

(00:12:05) Making a Good Podcast

What makes a podcast compelling and successful, focusing on content and audience engagement.

(00:15:52) YouTube and Podcasting: A Comparative Analysis

The role of YouTube in the podcasting world and the unique value of audio-only formats.

(00:20:00) Setting Up for Success on Hosting Platforms

Considerations when setting up your podcast on hosting platforms, include title selection, show art, and early promotion strategies.

(00:25:59) Recap and Key Learnings

Summary of key points covered in the episode, emphasizing the importance of RSS feeds, hosting platforms, and strategic show setup.

(00:28:08) Conclusion

• (00:00) - Introduction

The challenging decision to possibly conclude your show.  Delve into the journey of Julie Bartucca and Tom Breen from the UConn 360 Podcast, discussing its inception, audience engagement, and the bittersweet decision to step back from hosting the show. Our guests share operational insights, the importance of storytelling, and advice for fellow podcasters considering similar transitions. Reflecting on favorite episodes and the emotional impact of their work, Julie and Tom's experiences offer a comprehensive look into the world of alumni podcasting and its potential to connect and inspire.

Connect with Us

• Learn More: Continuing Studies Podcast
• Join: University Podcasters Network LinkedIn Group
• Connect w/ Jen: LinkedIn or  [email protected] 
• Connect w/ Neil:  LinkedIn or [email protected]
• Twitter:  @namcphedran / @podiumpodcastco
• Youtube

Episode Reference Links:

• UConn 360 Podcast
• UConn's Fictional Student Body President  (Excerpt and original newspaper article of UConn’s fictional student president from Tom’s favorite episode)
• Ep. 3 - Play Us a Song, You're the Piano Brain  (Tom’s full favorite episode)
• Ep. 113 - How Hip-Hop Conquered the World (Julie’s favorite episode)

Chapters:
(00:00:00) Introduction 

Hosts Neil McPhedran and Jennifer-Lee introduce guests Julie and Tom from the UConn 360 podcast.

(00:02:23) UConn 360 Podcast Overview 

A brief history of how the podcast started including its inspiration and original objectives.

(00:06:04) Audience and Purpose of the Podcast 

The evolution of the target audience for the UConn 360 podcast and purpose of the podcast in storytelling and engaging with a wide audience.

(00:09:03) Challenges of Podcasting and Decision to Step Back 

Challenges of maintaining the podcast amidst changing responsibilities and the process leading to the decision to end the podcast.

(00:11:02) Operational Insights and Listener Engagement 

Operational aspects of running the podcast, including content creation, editing, and the impact of listener engagement and feedback.

(00:14:17) Future of the Podcast and Succession Planning 

The future of the UConn 360 podcast, including potential new hosts and the importance of maintaining the original spirit..

(00:18:13) Advice for Podcasters and Reflections on Podcasting Journey 

Advice for podcasters considering ending or handing over their podcast.

(00:20:53) Favorite Episodes and Personal Highlights 

Julie and Tom’s favorite episodes and personal highlights from their time running the UConn 360 podcast.

(00:24:20) Conclusion

• (00:00) - Introduction

How does a surgical podcast reach over 10 million downloads? With humour, concise learning objectives, and short engaging episodes that sometimes even feature muppets.  Join Surgery 101’s Co-Creator Dr. Jonathan White with hosts Neil McPhedran & Jennifer-Lee Gunson as he shares the innovative approaches that have made Surgery 101 a global phenomenon making complex surgical concepts accessible and engaging for an audience that extends beyond medical students to professionals and patients. Through the story of Surgery 101, we uncover the transformative power of podcasting in education and the potential for creative approaches to revolutionize learning experiences.

Connect with Us

• Learn More: Continuing Studies Podcast
• Join: University Podcasters Network LinkedIn Group
• Connect w/ Jen: LinkedIn or  [email protected] 
• Connect w/ Neil:  LinkedIn or [email protected]
• Twitter:  @namcphedran / @podiumpodcastco
• Youtube
  
  

Links

• Get in Touch with Dr. White: Email / LinkedIn
• Muppet Surgery
• Surgery 101
• Continuing Studies Episode 6 with Dr. Craig Van Slyke

Chapter Time Stamps:

(00:00:00) Introduction
Hosts Jennifer-Lee &  Neil introduce the weekly guest, Dr. Jonathan White of Surgery 101.

(00:02:18) Dr. White's Podcasting Journey
Dr. White shares his journey into podcasting, from early experiments to the evolution of Surgery 101, emphasizing its global impact and reach.

(00:05:53) Simplifying Surgical Education
The success of Surgery 101, attributing its popularity to simplicity, accessibility, filling gaps in traditional medical education, and its strategic episode structure.

(00:09:05) Surgery 101's Audience
Discussion on the broader audience, including medical students, residents, nurses, and patients

(00:10:51) Integration into Curriculum
How the podcast has adapted to curriculum changes and expanded its content, and where it is going next in terms of content.

(00:14:52) Impact on Students and Learning Styles
The use of the podcast as one more educational tool to be used in conjunction with other learning tools, and the difficulty of scientifically assessing it's impact.

(00:16:35) Infusing Humour into Medical Education
Discussion on the importance of humour in education and how Muppets came to be a part of Surgery 101

(00:20:49) Creative Commons and Open Access
The decision to release Surgery 101 content under Creative Commons for free global access, emphasizing the philosophy of sharing knowledge without barriers.

(00:23:55) Advice for Aspiring Educational Podcasters
Dr. White offers insights and encouragement for educators considering starting their podcasts, encouraging others to take the risk, and share their knowledge.

(00:26:11) Conclusion
Neil & Jen share their key takeaways from the interview with Dr. White

• (00:00) - Introduction

How does a podcast successfully navigate a host change and still keep their voice? From Here Forward, an alumni focused podcast based in Vancouver, Canada did that, by strategically choosing a voice and a tone for their audience, and then letting the show find its own authentic voice. Join Jennifer Lee Gunson and Neil McPhedran, alongside guests Carol Eugene Park and Steve Kennedy from Alumni UBC, to hear how clear vision earlier in the podcasting process allows for greater freedom and stability in the ever- changing higher education landscape.

Connect with Us

• Learn More: Continuing Studies Podcast
• Join: University Podcasters Network LinkedIn Group
• Connect w/ Jen: LinkedIn or  [email protected] 
• Connect w/ Neil:  LinkedIn or [email protected]
• Twitter:  @namcphedran / @podiumpodcastco
• Youtube
  
  

Links

• From Here Forward
• Connect with Carol on Twitter:  @caroleugenepark
• Connect with Steve on LinkedIn
• Santa Ono Episode
• Wild Fires Episode
• The Wine Tasting Episode
•  bbno$ Episode
• Pieter Cullis Episode

Chapter Time Stamps:

(00:00:00) Introduction
Hosts Jennifer Lee and Neil McPhedran introduce the guest’s from UBC, Steve Kennedy & Carol Eugene Park from From Here Forward.

(00:02:40) Guest Introductions
How Carol & Steve came into their podcast roles. 

(00:05:28) Reflecting Urgent Optimism
Steve discusses the origin and significance of the name "From Here Forward," and it’s connection to the themes of the show.

(00:08:23) Transitioning Hosts
The challenges and strategies of choosing and changing podcast hosts while maintaining the show's voice and audience connection. Steve and Carol explore their experiences.

(00:13:00) Origin of Carol’s Podcasting Journey
Carol discusses her previous podcasting experience, which caught Steve's attention.

(00:14:42) Reflections Two Years On
Insights on the evolution of "From Here Forward," including expanding content topics, going with immediacy for topics, and having a great producer to work with.

(00:16:13) Advice for New Podcasters
Advice to aspiring podcasters on having a clear vision and embracing the learning process, and allowing space for a show and it’s hosts to find their voice.

(00:19:05) Choosing Podcast Guests
How guests are chosen for the show, based on strategic themes and immediacy.

(00:20:27) Favourite Episodes Discussion 
Carol and Steve share their favourite episodes, highlighting the diversity of topics and the impact of storytelling in humanizing academic research and celebrating significant achievements.

(00:22:21) Neil's Personal Connection
Neil reflects on how participating in the podcast has reconnected him to the University of British Columbia, emphasizing the role of podcasting in bridging alumni and their alma mater.

(00:24:10) Conclusion
Neil & Jen share their key takeaways from the conversation.

• (00:00) - Introduction

Discover why YouTube should be an indispensable part of your podcast strategy, even without video. Join Neil McPhedran and Jennifer-Lee Gunson  in a thought-provoking conversation with guest expert Steve Goldstein as he walks us through his research and what it tells us about how podcast listeners are using YouTube, shedding light on the role of YouTube Shorts, and the power of the platform for amplifying discoverability. Delve deep into the art of podcast promotion, emphasizing the importance of flexibility in content delivery. Whether you're a seasoned podcaster, a content creator, or navigating the higher education space, this episode equips you with actionable strategies to leverage YouTube effectively, unlocking new dimensions for audience engagement and growth.

Connect with Us

• Learn More: Continuing Studies Podcast
• Join: University Podcasters Network LinkedIn Group
• Connect w/ Jen: LinkedIn or  [email protected] 
• Connect w/ Neil:  LinkedIn or [email protected]
• Twitter:  @namcphedran / @podiumpodcastco
• Youtube
  
  

Links

• Amplifi Media
• Connect with Steve on Twitter:  @sjgoldstein
• The New Rules of Podcasting on YouTube Research Study
• Planet Money YouTube Short Explainer Videos
• The Grid of Pain
• Edison Research: Americans Spend Over Four Hours Daily with Audio

Chapter Time Stamps:

(00:00:00) Introduction
Hosts Jennifer Lee and Neil McPhedran introduce the episode on YouTube and podcasting with expert Steven Goldstein

(00:03:04) Steve’s Journey
Steve introduces his journey from broadcasting, to his company Amplifi Media, and adjunct professor at NYU in the Business of Podcasting.

(00:04:40) Podcasting in Higher Education
The power of finding your niche in podcasting

(00:06:16) The Changing Definition of Podcasting
Steve unpacks the evolution of podcasting, dividing it into three eras: the “MeUndies era”, the “Throw the spaghetti against the wall era', and the “What is a podcast era”.

 (00:10:39) Research Insights on Podcast Consumption
Amplifi & Coleman Insight’s research on podcast consumption habits, including the role of YouTube as one of the three major podcast apps, and the surprising flexibility of users.

(00:12:40) Why YouTube?
YouTube as the second-largest search engine globally and it’s power for discovery.

(00:15:16) Is Video Necessary?
Steve & Neil discuss how video is not always necessary for podcasts to still obtain the benefits of being on YouTube.

(00:18:14) YouTube Shorts
What are YouTube shorts how they can be used for podcast discovery including an example from Planet Money.

(00:20:24) Introduction and YouTube Approach :
Steve gives Neil advice from Steve Goldstein on approaching YouTube for the first time and explains the “Grid of Pain”.

 (00:22:53) Strategies for Podcast Growth
The importance of maximizing owned media assets for podcast promotion and utilizing YouTube to grow your listener base

(00:26:02) The Future of Radio & Podcasting
Steve & Jen discuss how radio can best use podcasting and incorporate On-Demand strategies

(00:29:09) Conclusion
Neil & Jen share their key takeaways from their conversation with Steve.

• (00:00) - Introduction