Plato University: Podcasts are the new classrooms

Continuing Studies: for Higher Ed Podcasters

Explore the potential for podcasting to be the classroom of the future and how Brandon Stover is making that a reality for the 630,000 downloads from Plato University. Brandon shares his passion for making education accessible for all, and why podcasting is the most effective medium for this. The discussion sheds light on the persistent issue of audience connection, the importance of owning podcast assets. Delving into his podcasting strategy, Brandon reveals the power of research based titles and how he utilizes websites like Answer the Public, to align episode content and titles with audience search patterns. Explore the future trends of podcasting, from the revolutionary potential of Bitcoin and Web3 integration to the expanding role of podcasts in higher education. Whether you're fascinated by the evolving podcasting landscape or interest in changing education delivery, there are valuable takeaways for everyone.

Connect with us:

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

Connect with Brandon & Plato University

• Learn More: https://www.plato.university/
• Twitter
• YouTube
• LinkedIn

Chapter Timestamps:

(00:00:00) Introduction
Host’s Neil McPhedran and Jennifer-Lee Gunson introduce the show and discuss Brandon's podcasting journey and Plato University's mission.

(00:02:53) Making Education Accessible
Brandon shares his background and journey with podcasting, the genesis of Plato University, and the goal of making education accessible to everyone.

(00:05:40) Designing Courses and Finding Purpose
Jennifer & Brandon discuss the purpose and career courses at Plato University, focusing on helping individuals find their purpose.

(00:06:59) Podcasting as a Medium for Learning
Discussion on how & why podcasting is utilized as the learning medium at Plato University.

(00:09:53) Student Feedback and Impact
Brandon shares insights from student feedback and his courses' profound impact on individuals. Neil discusses the Calendly idea for generating audience feedback, questioning Brandon about its implementation in podcast lessons.

(00:13:08) Marketing and Episode Titles
Brandon shares his marketing strategy, and the organic growth of Plato University and how he utilizes SEO research for titling purposes.

(00:16:46) Entrepreneurial Background and Learning
Neil & Brandon discuss how to use a website effectively in podcasting to own your audience with the vulnerability of apps.

(00:20:21) The Future for Podcasting & Higher Education
The future of podcasting in higher education and its potential to reach a global audience and disrupt traditional educational models.

(00:22:53) Advice for New Podcasters
Brandon provides the pieces of advice for new podcasters: choose a topic you are passionate about and get a good microphone. Consistency and passion are key.

(00:24:22) Podcasting’s Evolution
Brandon discusses the opportunity for creating feedback channels in podcasting as well as the intersection of podcasting with Bitcoin, Web3, and Podcasting 2.0.

(00:26:45) Conclusion
Neil & Jen share their key takeaways and learnings from their conversion with Brandon.

• (00:00) - Introduction
• (02:53) - Making Education Accessible
• (05:40) - Designing Courses and Finding Purpose
• (06:59) - Podcasting as a Medium for Learning
• (09:53) - Student Feedback and Impact
• (13:08) - Marketing and Episode Titles
• (16:46) - Entrepreneurial Background and Learning
• (20:21) - The Future for Podcasting & Higher Education
• (22:53) - Advice for New Podcasters
• (24:22) - Podcasting’s Evolution
• (26:45) - Conclusion