What happens when a classroom podcast turns into peer-reviewed scholarship, an AI teaching tool, and its own academic platform?

When Dave Keighron and Dr. Gelareh Farhadian first launched Innovation Fuel, the goal was simple: bring real entrepreneurial stories into the business classroom. Five years later, that idea has grown into something much bigger.

In this episode, Neil and Jen catch up with Dave and Gelareh to talk about how their podcast evolved into published peer-reviewed podcast episodes and papers, and now an AI-powered classroom tool called Innovation Fuel Studio. They share how they’re turning podcast episodes into scholarly outputs, getting them into academic journals and libraries, and building a system that lets students role-play directly with AI versions of founders and CEOs.

It’s a wide-ranging conversation about case-based learning, ethical AI use, peer review, and what happens when podcasting becomes part of the academic infrastructure itself. If you’ve ever wondered how a higher ed podcast can grow beyond marketing and become part of teaching, research, and innovation, this one’s worth a listen.

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• Learn More: Continuing Studies Podcast
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• Join LinkedIn Group: www.linkedin.com/groups/14115712/
• Connect w/ Jen: LinkedIn / jpodcreations@gmail.com
• Connect w/ Neil: LinkedIn / neil@podiumpodcastco.com
• Twitter: @namcphedran / @podiumpodcastco
• Youtube
• HigherEdPods

Links:

• Innovation Fuel Podcast
• Innovation Fuel Studio
• Contact Dave & Gelareh
• Marketing Corner Talks Podcast
• Douglas College Library

Chapters:

• (00:00) - Introduction
• (03:09) - How Innovation Fuel Started and Where it is Now
• (07:40) - Podcasting as Scholarly Output and Peer Review
• (10:49) - Expanding the Research and Educational Impact
• (12:27) - Keeping Case Study Content Current for Students
• (15:41) - Bringing Cases Back Into the Classroom With AI
• (16:52) - Entrepreneurs, Students, and the Broader Ecosystem
• (17:35) - AI Chatbots and New Tools in Development
• (20:20) - Academic Libraries, Indexing, and Visibility
• (22:22) - Reflecting on Innovation and What’s Ahead
• (24:01) - Outro

As universities face pressure to evolve, podcasting is emerging as an unexpected catalyst and channel for change.

Carola Boehm first caught Neil’s attention with her EPOD abstract suggesting the ivory tower might be starting to crack — a bold (and maybe slightly controversial) take that kicked off this conversation about how podcasting is reshaping the way knowledge gets created and shared in higher education. So this week, Carola “schools” Neil and Jen on her “University 3.0” idea — universities losing their place as the sole gatekeepers of knowledge toward more open, collaborative learning spaces — and what podcasting has to do with that shift. The conversation also touches on the EPOD conference, pressures facing universities right now, and why even small podcasts can play a meaningful role in connecting people, ideas, and communities.

Episode Links:

• Carola Boehm | LinkedIn
• EPOD Conference
• Carla's 2026 EPOD Abstract
• Embedding Culture 3.0 and University 3.0 in Leadership Development Programmes for Heritage Organisations and Heritage Sites (2025)
• Why Podcasting Needs to Lean into Culture 3.0

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
• (01:31) - Introducing Carola Boem and the EPOD Conference
• (02:40) - Podcast Reach, Audience, and Global Communities
• (04:25) - Culture 3.0, Co-Creation, and Podcasting’s Role
• (06:00) - Carola’s Background and Creative Industries Research
• (08:38) - University 3.0 and Podcasting as a Knowledge Shift
• (09:22) - What EPOD Is and Why It Matters
• (11:33) - Universities Under Pressure and New Learning Models
• (13:30) - Gatekeeping, Broadcasting, and Academic Structures
• (14:16) - University 1.0 to 3.0 Explained
• (18:06) - How Podcasting Challenges Academic Gatekeeping
• (22:09) - Governance, AI, and Quality in Podcasting
• (25:56) - How Universities Can Start Moving Toward University 3.0
• (27:30) - Podcasting as a Co-Created Learning Space
• (28:42) - Conclusion

A thoughtful look at how podcasting is expanding the ways academic work is created and shared.

Jim Ambuske, historian and producer, is back to share his thoughts on where audio is going in the academic world and what it’s going to take to have it recognized as a scholarly medium. Jim gets into his new work on the In Pursuit project, what he’s seeing in the world of digital archives and oral history, and why he believes audio and video are important ways to share academic work beyond the page. They also dig into the real challenges facing higher education right now—from funding pressures to tenure expectations—and why, even with all of that, Jim is still optimistic about what creators and institutions can build next.

Episode Links:

• Jim Ambuske
• Jim Ambuske | LinkedIn
• In Pursuit
• Jim Previous Episode: Making History Heard: Bringing the Past to Life Through 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
• (03:32) - Jim’s New Role and the In Pursuit Project
• (05:40) - Podcasting & Funding Cuts to the Humanities & Higher Ed
• (08:11) - How to Keep Doing the Work in a Difficult Environment
• (09:55) - The Digital Archives in the Commonwealth Conference
• (13:18) - The Growth of Multimedia and Academic Storytelling
• (14:57) - Why the Monograph Still Dominates Academia
• (17:44) - What Would It Take for Podcasts to Count?
• (20:02) - University Presses & Journals in an Audio World
• (21:49) - Conferences & Accreditation for Podcasting
• (24:01) - How Institutions Can Support Podcasting Without Breaking It
• (26:59) - The Future of Higher Ed Podcasting
• (30:52) - Conclusion

Start your 2026 inspired and ready for what’s next in higher ed podcasting—straight from the people building it.

What’s ahead for higher ed podcasting in 2026? This episode rounds up predictions from creators and educators around the world, spotlighting the trends shaping the year ahead. Hear why podcasting may gain more academic credibility, how universities could lean on audio as a PR and outreach channel, and why short mini-series and binge-drop formats are on the rise. The conversation also explores a major shift toward research storytelling that highlights process (not just results), the growing role of podcasting across the entire student lifecycle, and the ethical questions AI is bringing into production. A forward-looking listen for anyone creating podcasts in higher education.

Connect:

• Share Feedback & Ask Questions: hello@continuingstudiespodcast.com
• Learn More: Continuing Studies Podcast
• Follow: Continuing Studies LinkedIn Page
• Join LinkedIn Group: www.linkedin.com/groups/14115712/
• Connect w/ Jen: LinkedIn / jpodcreations@gmail.com
• Connect w/ Neil: LinkedIn / neil@podiumpodcastco.com
• Twitter: @namcphedran / @podiumpodcastco
• Youtube
• HigherEdPods

Episode Links:

• Carl Hartley’s Episode: Podcasting and Journalism: Balancing Innovation and Integrity
• Jenna Spinelle’s Episode: The Democracy Group: The Power of a Podcast Network
• Kate Young’s Episodes: Continuing Studies: Higher Ed Podcasting | Purdue: Effectively Engaging Alumni / Clips, Strategy, and Search: How This Is Purdue Scales Its Reach
• Brett Spencer’s Episode: Class is in Session: Building the Future of Podcasting Through Education
• Marta Perrotta’s Episode: Broadcasting Without Borders: How Podcasting is Changing Journalism
• Jim Ambuske’s Episode: Making History Heard: Bringing the Past to Life Through Podcasts
• John Boccacino’s Episode: Syracuse University: Podcasting the Voice of a University

Chapters:

• (00:00) - Introduction
• (01:52) - Carl Hartley: Podcasting Becoming Academic Currency
• (05:22) - Jenna Spinelle: Podcasting as University PR
• (07:31) - Kate Young: Short Series & Binge Drops
• (09:58) - Brett Spencer: More Podcast Courses & “Fun” Content
• (12:39) - Marta Perrotta: Research Process, Not Just Results
• (15:49) - Elvin Freytes: Podcasting Across the Student Lifecycle
• (18:57) - Jim Amuske: AI Ethics in Podcast Production
• (20:47) - John Boccacino: Longform Still Wins (With Engagement)
• (24:34) - Conclusion

The evolution of Think Fast, Talk Smart and what it teaches higher ed about communication and connection.

To close out the year, Continuing Studies revisits one of its most popular episodes — the first-ever live recording from the inaugural Higher Ed PodCon in Chicago. In this special conversation, Matt Abrahams, Stanford GSB lecturer and host of the globally acclaimed podcast Think Fast, Talk Smart, shares the remarkable evolution of his show — from its early DIY production with his sons to becoming the #1 careers podcast worldwide.
With more than 68 million plays across 125 countries, Matt reflects on building community, experimenting with video, embracing AI, and transitioning to an independent platform while staying deeply audience-focused.
Whether you’re a higher ed podcaster or simply passionate about meaningful communication, this “Best Of” episode offers timeless insights on creativity, connection, and the ever-evolving landscape of podcasting.

Episode Links:

• Think Fast Talk Smart
• Matt Abrahams
• Matt Abrahams | LinkedIn
• Higher Ed PodCon
• Think Fast, Talk Live: Building a Podcast Audience

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
• (04:36) - The Origin of Think Fast, Talk Smart
• (05:43) - Evolving Vision and Format
• (06:35) - Launching with Limited Support
• (08:49) - Leveraging Interns and University Resources
• (10:12) - Growth, Reach & the Tipping Point
• (11:15) - Becoming an Independent Podcast
• (12:20) - The Shift to Video
• (13:18) - Video Production & Social Strategy
• (15:47) - What’s Next: Community & Curation
• (17:58) - Integrating AI in Podcasting
• (19:19) - Expanding Globally with Translations
• (20:33) - What Makes a Great Interview
• (21:21) - Interview Rituals and Techniques
• (22:35) - Handling Low-Energy Interviews
• (23:31) - The Final Three Questions
• (27:18) - Live Audience Q&A
• (36:42) - Conclusion

How podcasting fits into modern scholarship and the evolving goals of higher education.

Barry Lam—philosopher, professor, and creator of the acclaimed narrative podcast Hi-Phi Nation — joins the show to explore how audio storytelling can bridge the worlds of scholarly research and public engagement. This wide-ranging conversation traces the evolution of narrative academic podcasts, the craft behind building compelling audio stories, and how philosophy can come alive when paired with documentary-style narrative. The discussion also uncovers the shifting landscape within academia—where traditional scholarly outputs like monographs still dominate—and how podcasting is beginning to challenge those norms. Hear how one podcaster’s work reshaped a university’s hiring and tenure considerations, why public-facing scholarship matters, and what institutions must rethink to truly support creative academic work. A thoughtful conversation for anyone curious about the future of academic storytelling, the possibilities of audio as scholarship, or the evolution of higher ed podcasting.

Episode Links:

• Hi-Phi Nation
• Barry Lam | LinkedIn
• Barry Lam

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
• (03:43) - Origins of a Narrative Philosophy Podcast
• (07:06) - Crafting a Story & the Limits of AI
• (09:11) - Academic Rigor vs. Narrative Entertainment
• (11:31) - Choosing Podcasting Over Papers
• (14:46) - Why the Written Monograph Still Rules
• (16:28) - When Podcasting Becomes Scholarly Capital
• (22:49) - Should There Be a Journal of Podcasting?
• (24:27) - Rethinking Public Scholarship
• (28:21) - Universities as Modern Media Producers
• (32:14) - What’s Ahead for the Next Season
• (34:01) - Advice for Scholars Considering Podcasting
• (36:42) - Conclusion

How a podcast amplifies Black voices and their journeys of excellence at UIC.

Dr. Aisha El-Amin, Executive Associate Vice Provost of Student Success and Belonging at the University of Illinois Chicago, reflects on the power of storytelling to create belonging, visibility, and momentum for students. She shares how the Black Excellence Podcast began as a 28-day project and grew into an award-winning platform that helps students see themselves in the stories of alumni, faculty, and peers. Aisha also opens up about her own journey—from military service to teaching to higher-ed leadership—and how authentic conversations can bridge gaps traditional communication often misses. Her perspective offers inspiration for anyone using podcasting to strengthen community and support student success.

Episode Links:

• Dr. Aisha El-Amin | LinkedIn
• Leadership | Office of Student Success and Belonging | University of Illinois Chicago
• Black Excellence | UIC today

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
• (04:21) - Building Community Through Podcasting
• (05:36) - Creating the Black Excellence Podcast
• (09:12) - Producing 28 Episodes in 28 Days
• (11:00) - Growing a Campus Podcasting Ecosystem
• (11:53) - Capturing Authentic Conversations
• (13:46) - The Expanding Future of Podcasting
• (16:48) - Why Administrators Should Podcast
• (19:10) - The Changing Role of Writing and Communication
• (23:47) - Encouraging Authentic Voice
• (26:07) - How Podcasting Builds Connection
• (27:47) - Finding and Inviting Guests
• (30:07) - Strengthening Alumni Connection
• (31:51) - Advice for New Higher Ed Podcasters
• (34:49) - Personal Journey to Higher Ed
• (37:24) - Conclusion

How a college podcast network builds community across the campus.

Ryan Record, Podcast Network Manager at Howard Community College, shares how Dragon Media Podcasts evolved from a digital radio station into a thriving, community-driven podcast network. He discusses building a diverse slate of shows spanning student life, literature, film, and public health—each designed to connect campus and community voices. Ryan reflects on leadership transitions, creative collaboration, and the importance of vetting new shows with educational and community value in mind. He also offers practical advice for building a podcast network from the ground up, gaining institutional support, and sustaining audience engagement through social media consistency and cross-promotion. A thoughtful look at how a college podcast network aligns campus and community.

Episode Links:

• Dragon Podcasts | Howard Community College
• Dragon Media | Howard Community College
• Ryan Record | 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
• (03:18) - Ryan’s New Role and Vision
• (04:03) - What is the Dragon Podcast Network?
• (04:54) - Inside the Howard Community College Ecosystem
• (05:43) - The Dragon Network’s Shows
• (07:16) - Genesis of the Dragon Podcast Network
• (09:34) - Integrating with the College Community
• (10:46) - The Team and Structure
• (11:28) - The Vetting Process for New Shows
• (13:42) - Building Awareness and Audience
• (15:45) - Tips for Starting a Podcast Network
• (16:54) - Budget and Institutional Support
• (17:53) - How Dragon Media Fits Into College Structure
• (20:13) - Lessons from Higher Ed PodCon
• (21:04) - The Role of Social Media
• (22:57) - Cross-Promotion and Network Synergy
• (24:43) - Building Together, Not Competing
• (25:57) - Final Advice: Take Care of Your Team
• (27:35) - Conclusion