Making History Heard: Bringing the Past to Life Through Podcasts

R2 Studios on turning serious history into compelling podcasts.

Jeanette Patrick and Jim Ambuske of R2 Studios join the Continuing Studies podcast to discuss the intersection of history, storytelling, and podcasting. They share how R2 Studios was founded with a mission to democratize history through engaging audio content, supported by academic rigor and creative production. From the challenges of building a podcast network within a university setting to the importance of funding, audience development, and cross-promotion, this conversation offers a candid look at what it takes to create compelling educational podcasts. Jeanette and Jim also reflect on the power of podcasting to bring overlooked narratives to light and their vision for future projects.

Episode Links:

• Jeanette Patrick  
• Jeannette Patrick | LinkedIn
• Jim Ambuske
• Jim Ambuske | LinkedIn
• R2 Studios 

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• Share Feedback & Ask Questions: [email protected]
• Learn More: Continuing Studies Podcast
• Follow: Continuing Studies LinkedIn Page
• Join LinkedIn Group: University Podcasters Network
• Connect w/ Jen: LinkedIn or  [email protected] 
• Connect w/ Neil:  LinkedIn or [email protected]
• Twitter:  @namcphedran / @podiumpodcastco
• Youtube
• HigherEdPods

Chapters:

• (00:00) - Introduction
• (02:08) - Founding of R2 Studios
• (04:24) - Why Historians Are Slow to Podcast
• (05:45) - Falling into History
• (07:24) - Why Podcasting Works for History
• (09:23) - Building a History Podcast Network
• (11:37) - Production Timelines & Historical Rigor
• (13:14) - Balancing Prep and Authenticity
• (15:05) - Handling Criticism and Corrections
• (16:26) - Who Listens to History Podcasts?
• (18:24) - The Power of Podcast Networks
• (23:03) - The Challenge of Academic Funding
• (26:52) - Non-Financial Rewards & Recognition
• (30:08) - What’s Next for R2 Studios?
• (32:36) - Conclusion