Continuing Studies: Higher Ed Podcasting

Unravel the dynamic relationship between podcast & curriculum, both as a part of it, and a driving force behind it, with Dr. Gelareh Farhadian and Dave Keighron from the University Canada West. Through insightful anecdotes, learn how the "Innovation Fuel" podcast emerged as a powerful educational tool, teaching critical thinking and practical skills through real world case studies and cultivating invaluable networking opportunities for students. The unique role their producer plays in curating meaningful content and driving collaboration is also visited. Explore the symbiotic relationship between podcast and classroom, and unearth the unexpected outcomes and career-readiness benefits it offers to both students and educators.

(00:00:00) Introduction

Jen and Neil provide some background on UCW, and introduce Dr. Gelareh Farhadian and Dave Keighron  of the "Innovation Fuel" podcast from the University of Canada West.

(00:03:05) The origins of Innovation Fuel

Learn what began "Innovation Fuel" and the unexpected learner benefits that have grown out of it

(00:06:42) The Prototyping Process

Dave & Gelareh discuss how the podcast has evolved from a conceptual idea, and what they have learned and changed along the way

(00:12:12) Podcast as Curriculum

Unravel the different ways of integrating the podcasting into the curriculum, and how the podcast has shaped the curriculum.

(00:16:34) The Vital Role of the Producer

Dave & Gelareh expand on how working with Tomas, their producer, has positively evolved their podcast through his connections and relationships with students, faculty, & the business community.

(00:18:32) The Feedback Loop

Discover the multitude of channels that Dave & Gelareh are receiving feedback and applying it to the podcast

(00:20:45) True Evergreen Content

Not only do past episodes continue to be available and serve as learning tools for students, Dave & Gelareh explain how they are building these up with followup and expanding their storytelling for learning and continuing to explore new solutions.

(00:22:09) Parting Wisdom: Podcasting Takeaways

Dave shares his advice to start doing, and Reid Hoffman’s “ Build your airplane as you’re falling off the cliff.”

(00:27:46) Conclusion & closing.

Neil & Jenn share their key takeaways from the episode.

• (00:00) - Introduction

Unpack the lessons learned from a college podcast's strategic pivot and adapting to change. Join hosts Jennifer-Lee Gunson and Neil McPhedran in a thought -provoking conversation with Laura Guzman, the director of Community Relations for Campus Support at CDI College. Explore their strategic pivot of the "Pick Me Up Podcast," from a covid-era mental health focus into "Career Buzz", which highlights different career options accessible through CDI’s programming. Learn about the strategic integration of their podcast into their campus app, creating a more accessible platform for students and faculty to discover and listen. Explore the power of podcasting as a tool for evergreen content creation and discover the significance of leveraging diverse distribution channels to engage students and beyond.Laura's candid story of her journey with CDI’s podcast offers wisdom for aspiring podcasters and higher education professionals seeking innovative ways to bridge connections and share impactful stories.

Chapter Time Stamps
(00:00:00) Introduction

Hosts Jennifer-Lee and Neil McPhedran welcome listeners and  provide a brief overview of the topics covered in this episode.

(00:01:22) Introduction to Laura Guzman

Jen introduces Laura Guzman, the Director of Community Relations for Campus Support at CDI College, and  Laura shares the origins of CDI College's podcast as a mental health platform during the pandemic and how it evolved into the insightful "Career Buzz."

(00:04:29) Strategic Rebranding and Target Audience Shift

Laura discusses the decision to rebrand the podcast, based on data-driven insights that highlighted successful episodes featuring alumni and industry professionals.

(00:08:30) Unique Programming at CDI College

Jen & Laura chat about the market - based programs available at CDI, and the opportunities they provide students with.

(00:11:21) Integration of Podcasts into Campus App

The conversation shifts to the innovative integration of the podcast into CDI College's campus app.

(00:12:18) Making Podcasts Accessible on Multiple Platforms

Laura & Neil emphasize the importance of making the podcast available on various platforms, ensuring accessibility to both the CDI College community and the general public.

(00:14:16) Tips for Starting a Podcast in Higher Education
Laura shares valuable insights for aspiring higher education podcasters, emphasizing the significance of professional expertise and product quality.

(00:17:27) Strategic Distribution Channels

Neil asks about the strategy and variety of distribution channels to amplify engagement.

(00:20:00) Wrap-up and Conclusion

Jen & Neil highlight their key takeaways from the episode

• (00:00) - Introduction

Join hosts Neil McPhedran & Jennifer-Lee with guest Kate Young, the host, writer, and executive producer of "This is Purdue", the official alumni podcast of Purdue University. Discover how Kate transformed the podcast into a compelling narrative show, weaving captivating stories of professors, students, athletics coaches and alumni. Learn about the unique approach of utilizing video content on YouTube to complement the audio podcast, appealing to different audience segments. Gain valuable insights on building brand awareness, connecting with alumni, and engaging prospective students and parents through the power of storytelling. Whether you're new to higher education podcasting or looking to enhance your existing show, this episode is packed with practical advice and inspiration to elevate your podcasting game.

Chapter Time Stamps:

(00:00:00) Introduction

Jennifer-Lee and Neil McPhedran introduce the episode and welcome Kate Young, the host, writer, and executive producer of "This is Purdue”

(00:01:40) The Team Behind “This Is Purdue”

Kate explains her role, it’s evolution since 2021, and how she works within a larger team at Purdue

(00:03:17) Podcast Goals and Target Audience

Discover the podcast as a storytelling vessel, appealing to both alumni and prospective students and parents.

(00:04:38) Creating Engaging Video Content

Kate discusses the successful integration of video elements on YouTube, using the same interview in different unique formats.

(00:9:43) Strategically Using Video Content

Practical advice for podcasters interested in exploring video content and repurposing clips for social media.

(00:12:00) The Focused Audience of Podcasting

Jen & Kate explore the time it takes to build a podcasting audience and value and focus of each listener

(00:14:00) Utilizing Podcasts for Internal and External Community

Exploring the podcast's impact on external audiences, benefits internally, and its role as a community-building tool within the university.

(00:16:35) Tips for Alumni-Focused Podcasts

Kate shares valuable tips on networking, growing an audience, managing expectations, and the long-term benefits of consistent content creation.

(00:19:42) Higher Ed Podcast Recommendations

Neil & Kate discuss the uniqueness of “This Is Purdue” within the landscape of higher ed podcasts, as well as other recommended shows.

(00:21:42) Wrapping Up

Jen & Neil highlight their key takeaways from the interview and sign off.

• (00:00) - Introduction

Join host Neil McPhedran & Jennifer-Lee Gunson with guest Jenny Luna, the Multimedia Content Creator & driver behind the podcasts that come out of Stanford Graduate School of Business. Jenny walks us through her journey of getting podcasting started and successful at the GSB. Discover the beginnings & the secrets behind the success of the Think Fast, Talk Smart podcast and its remarkable impact on a global audience. Learn how Stanford used their existing following on social media to launch & promote their podcasts. Gain valuable tips and advice on optimizing podcast content to meet your other institutional goals, the importance of evergreen episodes, titling your podcasts to attract listeners, and the benefits of having a dedicated producer. 

Whether you're an aspiring podcaster in the higher education field, or already podcasting, this episode provides a treasure trove of knowledge and inspiration. If you're interested in the behind-the-scenes of podcast production, the power of leveraging a brand, and the unique opportunities podcasting offers in higher education, this episode is a must-listen!

Chapter Time Stamps:

(00:00:00) Introduction and Background 

Jen & Neil introduce the show & Jenny Luna, from Stanford Graduate School of Business. 

(00:04:26) Where to Begin 

Jenny discusses how she ‘sold’ podcasting to the Stanford GSB, and the beginnings and roles on ‘Think Fast, Talk Smart’

(00:06:47) Professors & Podcasting 

They discuss the GSB’s podcasting program, and how best to guide & support someone who wants to start a podcast.

(00:10:37) Reaching a Global Audience 

Jenny shares insights into how Think Fast, Talk Smart, has built it’s far-reaching audience, highlighting in particular the use of an existing audience & brand.

(00:12:31) Exploring Topics Covered on the Podcast 

Jen asks about the range of topics covered on Think Fast Talk Smart & Jenny illustrates why those resonate with their audience. 

(00:14:30) How best to Support a Podcast

Jenny describes some of the strategies her teams has used -  the significance of creating transcripts, how to title episodes to attract listeners, and promotion through existing channels. 

 (00:18:28) Podcast Website Presentation

Strategic ways that Stanford GSB structures & uses their podcast’s websites to reach a larger  audience & impact SEO.

(00:20:04) Podcasting Strategically to Support Institutional Goals

We explore the strategic aspects of podcasting in higher education; the importance of aligning podcast goals with communication objectives, engaging alumni, current, and prospective students, and disseminating research.

(00:23:01) The Importance of Having a Producer 

Jen and Jenny delve into the benefits and potential roles of a dedicated producer, in scheduling interviews, providing interview prep, crafting show notes, and ensuring a smooth recording experience.

 (00:27:24) Final Thoughts

Jenny ends by discussing the importance of being clear that a podcast is the best tool, before beginning the work, and once begun, making sure you are ready before launching. 

(00:30:37) Closing Remarks 

Neil & Jen reflect on their key takeaways & insights from their conversation with Jenny.

• (00:00) - Introduction and Background

Your auditory guide to the world of higher education podcasting.  Brought to you in part by the University Podcasters Network, this series delves into the uniqueness of university podcast production and podcast growth, through the lens of seasoned podcasters across various higher education institutions.

Your hosts, Jennifer-Lee Gunson and Neil McPhedran, provide you a masterclass on the intricacies of higher education podcasting. Each episode features engaging, in-depth interviews with a seasoned higher education podcaster. Tune in as our guests share their insights, tips, best practices, and stories from their podcasting journey, illuminating the way for others to follow in their footsteps.

From the technical aspects of podcasting to the art of storytelling and conducting enlightening interviews, our podcast serves as a comprehensive resource for all higher education podcasters. Whether you're a seasoned podcaster or a novice just starting out, our insightful discussions will provide you with a wealth of knowledge and tips to enhance your podcasting journey.

The Continuing Studies Podcast is not just a show; it's a community. We are proud to be a part of the University Podcasters Network, a vibrant LinkedIn Group of higher education podcast enthusiasts. We invite you to join us on LinkedIn and be part of our growing community, where you can connect with like-minded individuals, share your experiences, and continue your podcasting education.

So, are you ready to deepen your understanding of higher education podcasting? Hit follow on the 'Continuing Studies Podcast' and join the University Podcasters Network on LinkedIn.

Stay curious, stay informed, and most importantly, stay inspired. This is the Continuing Studies Podcast.

Learn more at: https://www.continuingstudiespodcast.com/
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