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 | LinkedInJim AmbuskeJim Ambuske | LinkedInR2 Studios Connect with UsShare Feedback & Ask Questions: [email protected] More: Continuing Studies PodcastFollow: Continuing Studies LinkedIn PageJoin LinkedIn Group: University Podcasters NetworkConnect w/ Jen: LinkedIn or  [email protected] Connect w/ Neil:  LinkedIn or [email protected]:  @namcphedran / @podiumpodcastcoYoutubeHigherEdPodsChapters:(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 Join us at Higher Ed Pod Con in Cleveland, OH, July 16 - 17 2026Sign up by May 29 for Early Bird Pricing