Dean Shawn Wahl launched “RCOAL Conversations,” a podcast focused on the Reynolds College of Arts and Letters (RCOAL), in early January. The podcast began in collaboration with Jay Howard, instructor of communication at Missouri State.

“Jay and I captured a podcast style interview as part of an online class and had a follow-up conversation about our mutual interest in podcast production. We agreed that a podcast focused on the Reynolds College of Arts and Letters would be a great way to let people know what’s going on. Sharing faculty, student, and alumni stories and supporting a collaborative community are central to our purpose,” says Wahl.

Howard adds, “I love chatting with people about what they’re working on, and ‘RCOAL Conversations’ is a way for me to channel that interest. I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to share stories about the College.”

The podcast is a first for the college and a first for Wahl and Howard, as well. “Working on the technical side of podcast production is an ongoing learning experience for me. I had long been curious about what went into making a podcast. This project is giving me a new appreciation of all the podcasts I’ve enjoyed for so long!” says Howard.

Expect new episodes of “RCOAL Conversations” monthly. “The first two episodes have covered topics like the naming of the college with the largest scholarship gift in university history, John Goodman, new building projects, faculty spotlight conversations, and more,” says Wahl.

“I encourage ‘listener mail.’ If anyone has comments or suggestions about what they’d like to hear in the podcast, don’t hesitate to reach out! The lifeblood of any podcast is the audience,” adds Howard.

“RCOAL Conversations” is hosted on Anchor® by Spotify and available on all popular podcast players.