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