Class is in Session: Building the Future of Podcasting Through Education

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

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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