Empowering Students: Simplifying the Path to “Uni”

Uni Taster Days redefines university decisions with authentic student voices. Jon Cheek (https://www.linkedin.com/in/joncheek/) , founder of Uni Taster Days (https://www.unitasterdays.com/) and co-host of The Uni Guide (https://www.unitasterdays.com/listen-to-the-university-guide-podcast/) podcast, shares his journey of creating a go-to resource for UK students exploring university options. He reveals how his podcast evolved from focusing on parents and teachers to becoming a platform driven by students, for students—putting authentic voices at the center of the conversation. From navigating the complexities of university applications to crafting a podcast that balances quality, consistency, and impact, Jon offers a wealth of insights into higher education podcasting. He discusses the importance of audience engagement, the power of listening, and the rewards of staying committed to the process, offering a useful guide for educators, podcasters, and anyone passionate about connecting with their audience in meaningful ways. Episode Links: • Jon Cheek | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/joncheek/)   • UniTasterDays (https://www.unitasterdays.com/)   • The Uni Guide Podcast | UniTasterDays (https://www.unitasterdays.com/listen-to-the-university-guide-podcast/)   • The One in Five Podcast | UniTasterDays (https://www.unitasterdays.com/listen-to-the-1-in-5-podcast/)   Connect with Us • Share Feedback & Ask Questions: hello@continuingstudiespodcast.com (mailto:hello@continuingstudiespodcast.com) • Learn More: Continuing Studies Podcast (https://www.continuingstudiespodcast.com/) • Follow: Continuing Studies LinkedIn Page (https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/97470907) • Join LinkedIn Group: University Podcasters Network (https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14115712/) • Connect w/ Jen: LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferleejpodcreations/) or  jpodcreations@gmail.com  • Connect w/ Neil:  LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/namcphedran/) or neil@podiumpodcastco.com • Twitter:  @namcphedran (https://twitter.com/namcphedran) / @podiumpodcastco (https://twitter.com/podiumpodcastco) • Youtube (https://www.youtube.com/@continuingstudiespod) • HigherEdPods (https://higheredpods.com/) Chapters: • (00:00) - Introduction • (04:58) - The Inspiration Behind Uni Taster Days • (07:00) - Launching the Uni Guide Podcast • (07:42) - Pivoting the Podcast Audience • (09:53) - The Podcast as a Resource • (11:50) - The Benefits and Challenges of Podcasting • (14:10) - Pedals and Podium Philosophy • (17:42) - Why a Podcast? • (21:38) - Engaging Student Voices • (24:19) - The Guest Selection Process • (25:57) - Unique Position of Uni Taster Days • (30:52) - Advice for University Podcasters • (34:01) - Conclusion Join us at Higher Ed Pod Con in Cleveland, OH, July 16 - 17 2026 Sign up by May 29 for Early Bird Pricing (https://qcoirfalslewtms.eventify.io/t2/tickets)