MIT's One Billion Learners: Where Podcasting Fits In

How does podcasting fit into MIT’s goal of reaching one billion learners?

In this episode of Continuing Studies, Neil and Jen talk with Mary Ellen Wiltrout from MIT about MIT Learn, open learning, and how podcasts can make world-class expertise feel more accessible and human. Mary Ellen shares how MIT is experimenting with podcasts, short videos, and other formats to reach learners beyond traditional courses, and why audio can help audiences connect with the people behind the research. They also discuss Beyond Biology, storytelling in science, measuring impact beyond downloads, and how podcasting can spark curiosity, open doors, and remind listeners that even MIT experts are real people with unexpected paths.

Episode Links:

Learn more about MIT DELTAConnect with Mary Ellen WiltroutListen to Beyond BiologyListen to our episode with Brett Paci of MIT OpenCourseWareConnect with Us:

Share Feedback & Ask Questions: hello@continuingstudiespodcast.comLearn More: Continuing Studies PodcastFollow: Continuing Studies LinkedIn PageJoin LinkedIn Group: University Podcasters NetworkConnect w/ Jen: LinkedIn or  jpodcreations@gmail.com Connect w/ Neil:  LinkedIn or neil@podiumpodcastco.comTwitter:  @namcphedran / @podiumpodcastcoYoutubeHigherEdPods

Chapters:

(00:00) - Introduction

(02:35) - Meet Mary Ellen Wiltrout

(02:58) - From biology to online learning

(08:21) - What is MIT DELTA?

(10:12) - MIT’s one billion learners goal

(12:39) - Where podcasting fits in