Syracuse University: Podcasting the Voice of a University

Uncover how 'Cuse Conversations is reaching students, faculty, and alumni, fostering a vibrant community as the voice of Syracuse University.  Join hosts Neil McPhedran and Jennifer Lee Gunson in an insightful conversation with John Boccacino, one of the co-hosts and the driving force of Syracuse University's 'Cuse Conversations podcast. John shares his strategies for integrating the podcast seamlessly into Syracuse University's communications calendar, making it a vital tool in the institution's communication toolkit and engaging listeners with a remarkable 70% listen through rate. Explore the impact of crafting compelling narratives, from highlighting students and alumni, vital cultural discussions to commemorating significant events in the university's history. This episode serves as a rich tapestry, weaving together the threads of innovation, storytelling, and passionate community engagement, offering a profound glimpse into the future of higher education podcasting.Connect with us:Learn More: Continuing Studies PodcastJoin: University Podcasters Network LinkedIn GroupConnect w/ Jen: Jen LinkedIn or [email protected] w/ Neil:  Neil LinkedIn or [email protected]:  @namcphedran / @podiumpodcastcoConnect with John & 'Cuse ConversationsLearn More: 'Cuse ConversationsSubscribe: Apple/SpotifyTwitter:  @johnboccacino/@SyracuseUNewsLinkedInInstagramFacebookChapter Timestamps:(00:00:00) IntroductionNeil & Jen introduce John Boccacino, senior internal communication specialist at Syracuse University, co-host of ‘Cuse Conversations, and passionate alum.(00:03:51) Origin and Evolution of Cuse ConversationsJohn walks the audience through his personal podcasting journey from broadcasting to the alumni office of Syracuse where he started the podcast and it’s journey from an alumni focused start. (00:07:39) Podcast's Role in Communications Strategy‘Cuse Conversations as a tool to showcase university achievements and values, as well as student community, has led to success reflected in the audience duration rate.(00:10:03) Integrating Podcast into Communications CalendarAn in-depth discussion on how Cuse Conversations fits into the larger content calendar of the communications department, and utilizes video content, newsletters and brand identity.(00:13:12)  Guest Selection & StorytellingJohn explains the different kind of stories that they like to tell, highlighting events on campus and making sure that all different audience facets understand what's happening, to topical messaging that students need to hear.(00:16:16) Understanding Metrics for SuccessDiscussion on the 70 percent listener retention rate and if identifying impactful stories and  social media engagement metrics for podcast clips and the overall use and impact.(00:20:21) Expanding Audience HorizonsJohn explains how the podcast  intentionally caters to both alumni and students' interests to widen the audience and break down silos.(00:22:56) The Strategic Hosting ApproachInsights into focusing on the podcast's brand, and guests rather than individual identity of the hosts.(00:25:08) Stories that Need to be ToldJohn talks about the different stories that he shares, and highlights the story of a scholarship program that grew out of a tragedy.(00:27:13) Future Vision and Final ThoughtsExciting plans for launching a YouTube channel and incorporating live recorded podcasts, as well as thoughts on the future of higher education podcasts(00:31:07) Conclusion (00:00) - Introduction (03:51) - Origin and Evolution of 'Cuse Conversations (07:39) - Podcast's Role in Communications Strategy (10:03) - Integrating Podcast into Communications Calendar (13:12) - Guest Selection & Storytelling (16:16) - Understanding Metrics for Success (20:21) - Expanding Audience Horizons (22:56) - The Strategic Hosting Approach (25:08) - Stories that Need to be Told (27:13) - Future Vision and Final Thoughts (31:07) - Conclusion Join us at Higher Ed Pod Con in Cleveland, OH, July 16 - 17 2026Sign up by May 29 for Early Bird Pricing