In this episode of Entertainment Education: The Podcast - The One with Comedy, we explore the unique relationship between comedy, communication, and learning. While humor is often seen as a source of entertainment, it has long served as a powerful tool for educating audiences, challenging assumptions, and encouraging conversations about issues that might otherwise be difficult to discuss. From stand-up comedy and satire to viral memes and social media content, comedy continues to shape how people understand the world around them. Joining me as cohost this episode is Comedian and Communication expert Chris Ford.

In this episode of Entertainment Education: The Podcast - The One With Short Form Media, we explore one of the biggest transformations in modern media: the rise of short-form content. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts have fundamentally changed how audiences discover information, consume entertainment, and engage with stories. As attention increasingly shifts toward content measured in seconds rather than minutes, we ask what has fueled this change and what it means for the future of communication. Joining me this episode is Associate Professor of Film and Video Production at Johnson C Smith, Sitara Sadler.

On this episode of Entertainment Education: The Podcast - The One with film, we discuss that while movies are often viewed as a form of entertainment, they also serve as important tools for learning, shaping the way audiences understand history, culture, politics, and the world around them. Our discussion examines how film can educate viewers even when teaching is not its primary purpose and how the rise of streaming platforms has transformed the ways people consume, engage with, and learn from media. We also take a deeper look at the political and social dimensions of film, particularly within the horror genre. Joining me this episode is Professor of Media and Film History, Brian Shelton.

On this episode of Entertainment Education: The Podcast - The One with Nostalgia, our conversation explores why fantasy remains one of the most enduring and beloved genres across generations, as well as the creative process behind building worlds that feel both magical and authentic. We also examine the current state of fantasy storytelling, discussing emerging trends that are shaping the genre while considering the timeless elements that fans never want to lose. Additionally, we tackle the increasingly relevant question of nostalgia in modern media: is nostalgia-driven content simply a marketing strategy, or does it represent creators responding to genuine audience desires? Joining me this episode is fantasy and sci fi author, as well as professor, Slator Hamilton.

On this episode of Entertainment Education: The Podcast - The One with Rivalry, we’re not getting heated, but we discuss how rivalry can be healthy, unhealthy, and even violent. We discuss how interests in studying rivalry led to creating The Perspective Files. Together, we examine why rivalries are so compelling, how they become part of personal and group identities, and the ways they foster community among fans. We also tackle the darker side of competition, exploring when healthy rivalry crosses the line into toxic fandom. Joining me to open this season is a friend of the show, Dr. Cody Havard, fandom and rivalry scholar, and maybe a little surprise discussion from inner dialogue!

On this episode of Entertainment Education: The Podcast - The One with Disney, we explore how Disney’s iconic storytelling principles, like “show, don’t tell” and transformative character arcs, don’t just entertain, but also educate, inspire, and shape classroom experiences. We’ll talk about everything from how Disney fandom can become a powerful academic and professional pursuit, to the evolving role of Disney’s cultural messaging now that it owns powerhouses like Marvel and Star Wars. Plus, we'll hear about our guests' latest projects and how they bring a bit of Disney magic into their everyday teaching. My ride buddies for the evening are Dr. Rebecca Rowe, Professor and Editor of International Journal of Disney Studies, and Dr. Priscilla Hobbs, Associate Dean and author.

On this episode of Entertainment Education: The Podcast – The one with Narratives and Literature, we explore how narratives and literature intersect with entertainment education in the classroom to create a movement and social change. This episode blends scholarly insight with playful exchanges, offering both educators and literature fans a thoughtful conversation on how stories teach, transform, and entertain. Grab your favorite book and cosy into your favorite chair to read, as my co-authors for this episode are Drs. Erin Mann, Dean of Humanities and Fine Arts, and Michelle Anya Anjirbag, Lecturer and Researcher in Fantasy

On this episode of Entertainment Education: The Podcast - The One with Legacy Media, we unpack the enduring value of legacy media in today’s fast-moving digital landscape. Together, we explore how platforms like radio, print, and public broadcasting continue to shape educational messages, often in ways modern media still can’t replicate. From the role of PBS and NPR to the surprising resurgence of radio dramas and comics, this episode dives into how old-school formats can still teach, inspire, and entertain. My evening news cohosts for this episode are Dr. Julia Kuttler, McPhearson College, and Professor Len Assante, Volunteer State Community College.