"Stay Classy, Higher Education": The First-Ever Podcasting Conference

In the words of the legendary Ron Burgundy, "I don't know how to put this, but I'm kind of a big deal." And that's exactly what podcasting has become in higher education—a very big deal. That's why we're thrilled to announce Higher Ed PodCon - the first-ever conference dedicated exclusively to podcasting in higher education! Along with Dean Hoke of Edu Alliance , and with significant contributions from Gregg Oldring , and Neil McPhedran of HigherEdPods , the inaugural and first annual HigherEd PodCon happens on July 12th, 2025 on the campus of the University of Illinois Chicago .

"People of Earth, Can You Hear Me?" - Introducing This Groundbreaking Conference

Just as Ron Burgundy and his news team revolutionized San Diego's media landscape (in their own unique way), HigherEd PodCon represents a watershed moment for higher education podcasting. For the first time, the diverse voices of higher education will come together—without any jazz flute solos—to celebrate and elevate the art of higher education audio storytelling.

This pioneering conference acknowledges what many have discovered: podcasting offers an accessible, engaging way to catalyze:

• Brand storytelling and messaging as a part of marketing
• Lead Generation and Enrollment Management
• Resource accessibility as a part of Student Affairs
• Teaching and Learning in the classroom
• Alumni Engagement & Philanthropy
• Thought leadership and personal brand building
• Reputation and Research

"I'm in a Glass Case of Emotion!" - What to Expect at Higher Ed PodCon

Attendees can look forward to a rich program featuring:

Expert-Led Workshops: Develop technical skills and storytelling techniques that would impress even the most seasoned news anchors (and podcast hosts).

Inspiring Keynotes: Hear from trailblazers who have successfully leveraged podcasting without needing to read whatever appears on the teleprompter.

Networking Opportunities: Connect with fellow podcast enthusiasts from institutions nationwide, forming your own diverse and talented news team.

Equipment Demos: Get hands-on experience with technology more sophisticated than "headlines read at 70% normal volume."

Student Showcases: Discover how the next generation is using podcasting to develop professional skills without needing to start at public access channels!

"It's Science" - Why Higher Education Needs Its Own Podcasting Conference

While numerous general podcasting conferences exist, HigherEd PodCon fills a crucial gap by addressing the specific challenges and opportunities for higher education institutions. From navigating institutional approval processes to balancing scholarly rigor with engaging content, higher education podcasters face unique considerations that deserve dedicated attention.

In the immortal words of Ron Burgundy, "I'm very important. I have many leather-bound books and my apartment smells of rich mahogany." Similarly, higher education institutions possess incredible knowledge and prestige—and podcasting provides the perfect medium to share that expertise with the world in an accessible format.

"Don't Act Like You're Not Impressed" - Join the Movement

Whether you're a seasoned podcaster with hundreds of episodes, a curious faculty member considering your first show, or an administrator looking to enhance your institution's digital presence, HigherEd PodCon welcomes you.

By participating in this inaugural event, you'll gain valuable skills and connections while helping shape the future of higher education podcasting. Together, we can establish best practices and demonstrate the tremendous value this medium brings to higher education.

As Ron would say, "You stay classy, Higher Education!"

"Kind of a Big Deal" - Register Today

Don't miss your chance to be part of history at the first-ever HigherEd PodCon! Visit higheredpodcon.com to learn more about the conference schedule, speaker lineup, and registration details.

Our keynote will be delivered by Matt Abrahams - his podcast Think Fast, Talk Smart has over 50 million plays.

We're not saying our podcast conference is the most important conference in the history of conferences... but it's definitely in the top one. Join us!

We want YOU to be one of the first. First presenters, first attendees, or first sponsors, for the first ever, first annual, inaugural Higher Education Podcasting Conference, brought to you by YOUR colleagues.

Ladies and Gentlemen, YOU've just EdUpped.

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