How Stanford GSB Launched Its Flagship Show

Creating Stanford GSB’s Flagship Podcast If/Then."Why does it have to be a podcast?" Jenny Luna from Stanford Graduate School of Business returns to Continuing Studies to discuss the deliberate choices behind launching their flagship show, If/Then and why podcasting, among other communication channels, was the ideal platform to amplify the impactful research of Stanford GSB faculty. Jenny shares the strategic decisions that shaped the show—from selecting the right host with deep institutional knowledge to creating content that resonates with their audience. Her insights reveal the critical role of podcasting in advancing academic storytelling and outreach in the world of higher education.Episode Links:Jenny Luna: LinkedIn Stanford Profile: Jennifer Luna Jenny’s Podcast: If/Then: Business, Leadership, Society Connect with UsShare Feedback & Ask Questions: [email protected] More: Continuing Studies PodcastFollow: Continuing Studies LinkedIn PageJoin LinkedIn Group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14115712/Connect w/ Jen: LinkedIn or  [email protected] Connect w/ Neil:  LinkedIn or [email protected]:  @namcphedran / @podiumpodcastcoYoutubeHigherEdPodsChapters:(00:00:00) IntroductionNeil and Jen introduce return guest Jenny Luna, producer of Stanford GSB's new flagship podcast If/Then.(00:03:41) If/Then PodcastThe concept and focus behind the If/Then podcast.(00:05:06) Topic SelectionHow topics and faculty are chosen based on relevance and impact.(00:06:03) Choosing the HostSelecting an internal host familiar with the GSB culture and strong faculty rapport.(00:07:54) Why Podcasting?Why the GSB decided to focus on podcasting as a major communications channel.(00:09:38) Success FactorsKeys to the success of Stanford GSB’s podcasts, including strong branding.(00:12:30) Working with AgenciesCollaborating with agencies for production and marketing.(00:15:53) Launch StrategyThe approach to launching If/Then, including pilot episodes and stakeholder approval.(00:18:36) Season Two Planning Preparation for season two, including audience surveys and advance planning. (00:20:36) Lessons From Season OneImportance of developing a listener persona and a new strategy of in-person chats with guests.(00:25:33) Leveraging YouTubeThe role of YouTube in expanding the podcast’s reach.(00:28:00) Growth TacticsEffective growth strategies and plans for the next season.(00:31:04) Conclusion (00:00) - Introduction (03:41) - If/Then Podcast (05:06) - Topic Selection (06:03) - Choosing the Host (07:54) - Why Podcasting? (09:38) - Success Factors (12:30) - Working with Agencies (15:53) - Launch Strategy (18:36) - Season Two Planning (20:36) - Lessons From Season One (25:33) - Leveraging YouTube (28:00) - Growth Tactics (31:04) - Conclusion Join us at Higher Ed Pod Con in Cleveland, OH, July 16 - 17 2026Sign up by May 29 for Early Bird Pricing