How Great Pods is transforming podcast discovery with critic-driven reviews and smarter categorization. Imran Ahmed —better known as “Captain Ron”—founder of Great Pods, a platform dubbed the “Rotten Tomatoes for podcasts,” joins Neil and Jen to unpack how curated, critic-led reviews are reshaping podcast discovery. Imran shares his journey from college radio to startup founder, revealing the inspiration behind Great Pods and the importance of trust, transparency, and accurate genre tagging. The conversation dives into how higher education podcasters can better position their shows, improve discoverability, and benefit from tools like Great Pods to reach wider audiences. Whether you’re new to podcasting or looking to grow your show, this episode offers thoughtful strategies for building visibility and credibility. Episode Links: Imran A | LinkedIn Great Pods | Threads | Instagram | Newsletter | Blue.Sky Add Your Podcast: Podcast Screener Newsletter & Sites: The Ultimate Guide To Getting Your Podcast Reviewed - Podcast Promotion 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 (05:39) - Building for Trust and Transparency (09:28) - The Business Behind Great Pods (10:25) - Rewriting the Rules of Podcast Categorization (13:16) - SEO Tips for Podcasters (14:42) - The Categorization Challenge for Higher Ed Podcasts (18:23) - What Makes a Great (or Bad) Review (19:52) - Protecting Against User Bombing (23:36) - Why Higher Ed Podcasters Should Join Great Pods (25:40) - Creating New Genre Possibilities (26:46) - How to Become a Podcast Critic (31:32) - Tapping into Campus Resources for Podcast Growth (33:30) - Conclusion Join us at Higher Ed Pod Con in Cleveland, OH, July 16 - 17 2026 Sign up by May 29 for Early Bird Pricing