From the Nominator

Just as auditing a class provides an opportunity to explore a new subject or field, The Audit podcast allows listeners to explore the latest research and works by Colorado State University (CSU) faculty. Using conversations with CSU faculty and researchers, the podcast highlights, in an accessible way, the university’s vast array of expertise. In The Audit episode “Are Americans Suffering a Friendship Crisis?”, CSU Professor Natalie Pennington talked about her latest research on friendship that pushes back on some widely distributed previous studies. The conversation was also used to position Pennington as an expert on these types of relationships and to showcase her new American Friendship Project, which seeks to expand research on one of humans’ most important relationships. In the episode, “From Joe Rogan to Greg Gutfeld, More Conservative Comedians Are Stepping Into the Spotlight,” CSU Communications Professor Nick Marx was interviewed about his research into comedy, specifically political comedy. The conversation focused on the shift in the comedy industry from decidedly liberal to including more conservative comedians. It was pitched during the 2024 presidential campaign season to best position it to media and audiences, and it also highlighted the book Marx had written on the subject.

From the Judges

This podcast delivers impressive return-on-investment by leveraging CSU professors as expert voices in national conversations. With strong production, well-edited episodes, and impactful dialogue, it maximizes a modest budget to create meaningful media opportunities and reach, making it a well-earned bronze winner.