An academic history podcast becoming a massive hit sounds unlikely. But Dr. Greg Jackson’s success shows that depth, consistency, and craft can find a huge audience.

In this episode of Continuing Studies, Neil and Jen talk with Dr. Greg Jackson, creator and host of History That Doesn’t Suck, about taking history beyond the ivory tower without sacrificing rigour. Greg shares how storytelling, consistency, and a clear sense of purpose shape his long-form, deeply researched approach. They also get into the work behind the show, resisting podcast trends, and why making knowledge more accessible doesn’t have to mean making it less substantial.

Episode Links:

• Listen to History That Doesn't Suck
• Connect with Greg Jackson
• Buy Greg's Book: Been There, Done That: How Our History Shows What We Can Overcome

Connect with Us:

• Share Feedback & Ask Questions: hello@continuingstudiespodcast.com
• Learn More: Continuing Studies Podcast
• Follow: Continuing Studies LinkedIn Page
• Join LinkedIn Group: University Podcasters Network
• Connect w/ Jen: LinkedIn or jpodcreations@gmail.com
• Connect w/ Neil: LinkedIn or neil@podiumpodcastco.com
• Twitter: @namcphedran / @podiumpodcastco
• Youtube
• HigherEdPods

Chapters:

• (00:00) - Introduction
• (03:18) - Meet Dr. Greg Jackson
• (03:40) - Media disruption and the rise of podcasting
• (06:18) - The episode production process
• (06:41) - From tenure track to podcasting
• (08:42) - Taking history beyond the ivory tower
• (10:43) - Making rigorous history accessible
• (13:06) - What drove the show’s growth
• (16:56) - Scaling the show with a small team
• (18:41) - Writing, research, and production
• (21:19) - Why following the rules can make you generic
• (22:16) - Staying true to your strengths
• (25:35) - Advice for academics starting a podcast
• (27:01) - Using popular culture to spark historical curiosity
• (28:43) - Conclusion