Cases of successful independent educationally oriented podcasters

Abstract

This research project examined three cases of successful independent educationally oriented podcasters. As the numbers of podcasts and podcast listeners grow in the United States, the stories of people who create content in this new educational space are an under-explored and important research area. This research profiles three successful independent podcasters who work in areas that can be considered, broadly, educational. The participants were selected for their diversity, and data were collected from interviews with the podcasters and a review of their podcasts and related documents. The narratives examine how and why successful independent educationally oriented podcasters started and continue their work. The findings indicate that their work is characterized by the desire to fill an under-served need, a persistent optimism, an enjoyment of their independence, and a sense of integrity.