Think Fast, Talk Live: Building a Podcast Audience

Matt Abrahams, host of the globally acclaimed podcast Think Fast, Talk Smart, joins the Continuing Studies podcast in this special live episode recorded at the inaugural Higher Ed PodCon. With over 68 million plays and a reach across 125 countries, Matt shares the origin story of his show, the creative evolution behind its massive growth, and the lessons he's learned on building community, experimenting with video, leveraging AI, and staying relentlessly audience-focused. From DIY beginnings with his sons to launching "Chat Matt" and planning multilingual expansions, this candid conversation is packed with insights for anyone passionate about higher ed podcasting and meaningful communication.

Episode Links:

• Think Fast Talk Smart
• Matt Abrahams
• Matt Abrahams | LinkedIn   
• Higher Ed PodCon 

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Chapters:

• (00:00) - Introduction
• (03:04) - The Origin of Think Fast, Talk Smart
• (04:11) - Evolving Vision and Format
• (05:03) - Launching with Limited Support
• (07:17) - Leveraging Interns and University Resources
• (08:40) - Growth, Reach & the Tipping Point
• (09:43) - Becoming an Independent Podcast
• (10:48) - The Shift to Video
• (11:46) - Video Production & Social Strategy
• (14:15) - What’s Next: Community & Curation
• (16:26) - Integrating AI in Podcasting
• (17:47) - Expanding Globally with Translations
• (19:01) - What Makes a Great Interview
• (19:49) - Interview Rituals and Techniques
• (21:03) - Handling Low-Energy Interviews
• (22:09) - The Final Three Questions
• (25:46) - Live Audience Q&A
• (35:10) - Conclusion