(Pod)casting a wider net: let's talk [disseminating] education research

This paper explores the potential of podcasting as a medium for disseminating academic research, focusing on the Let's Talk Education Research podcast. The podcast, launched in March 2022, provides a platform for academics to share their research in an accessible format. This paper examines the growth, reach, and engagement with the podcast by analysing listener data, social media interactions, and platform performance. Results show steady growth in both listenership and engagement, particularly through social media promotion on platforms like Twitter/X. The study highlights how podcasts can broaden the audience for academic research and reach non-specialist listeners worldwide. However, it also discusses the ethical and logistical concerns around platform policies and underscores the volatile nature of digital scholarship. The findings suggest that podcasting can complement traditional channels, providing flexible and inclusive avenues for knowledge dissemination, while highlighting the need for researchers and institutions to remain vigilant and agile in their use of digital platforms to promote their work.