Welcome to the show!
What to expect
Each episode of The Modern Scholar Podcast highlights the work of an inspiring individual in a conversational style that allows for diving deep into research and projects, as well as enjoying light-hearted moments. Guests on the show have an opportunity to not only promote their own work, but also that of the institutions and organizations with which they are associated. The show places a unique emphasis on exploring the professional environments where our guests operate, providing a valuable glimpse into the trends, opportunities – and sometimes the pitfalls – of modern academic and professional life. All told, The Modern Scholar Podcast exists as a compelling stage, turning the spotlight on talented individuals doing great work and hopefully inspiring others to forge their own futures as modern scholars, librarians, and community leaders.
As far as our areas of focus – we will admit to a natural affinity for military history, but our guests have represented a number of different fields, including cultural, diplomatic, environmental, intelligence, and public history, as well as both public and special librarians, podcasters, nonprofit personnel, and professionals in the publishing industry. Our main priority remains conversations with historians, librarians, and community leaders who can illuminate important work and tell the stories of their respective professions. If you have written a great new book, are conducting exciting research, are implementing an innovative new library program, or are working to feed your community, we want to hear about it!
To suggest future guests or to volunteer as a guest yourself, please send us an email at modernscholarpodcast@gmail.com. Along with your name and contact information, please include the following:
Organizational affiliation
Position/role/area of specialty
Proposed scope of interview (including books, research, projects, or other topics you’d like to explore)
Preferred days/times for interview, via videoconference
Brief biographical overview
Hi-res headshot for use in promotional efforts
Even though we may not have an opportunity to invite each and every proposed guest onto the show, we welcome your nominations and look forward to hearing from you!
Recording Recommendations
We record primarily via videoconference, using Zoom. Here are a few things to keep in mind that will help create the best possible recording environment and ensure a fantastic episode!
Identify a quiet place that will be protected from loud or persistent household/office sounds, as well as external noises such as wind, birds, vehicles, sirens, etc.
Ensure a stable and reliable Internet connection.
Turn off or silence email, phone, and text notifications.
Plan for about an hour’s time – although this is flexible. Some episodes are longer or shorter than an hour, depending on the natural flow of conversation.
Above all, relax and have fun! This is YOUR time to shine and highlight the great work you are doing. Sit back, enjoy, and tell us what you do.
Legal Stuff
We’ve all heard the standard disclaimers, but just to keep the lawyers happy—the views and opinions expressed by guests appearing on The Modern Scholar Podcast are their own, and do not necessarily represent the positions of any other organization, institution, agency, or association where they may be employed or affiliated. Nor do they necessarily represent the position of The Modern Scholar Podcast or its host! With that in mind, we hope you enjoy each conversation and learn much from the insight our guests have to share.
Final decisions regarding episode production, creative direction, final edits, and the selection of guests are the responsibility of the creator, host, and producer, Philip C. Shackelford.