May 25, 2021

This paid piece is sponsored by Dakota State University.

Heavy on tech with a personal touch.

For Dakota State University, this statement rings true throughout its programs and curriculum. Known for being the cyber powerhouse of the plains, DSU is deeply rooted in technology, with it being the forefront of every degree.

Now, the school is getting even more personal with the launch of a new podcast: “Cyberology.”

“‘Cyberology’ is a monthly podcast that highlights all things cyber, as well as the people and programs on campus. It gives listeners insight on the fascinating work being done here,” said Jen Burris, DSU’s strategic communications coordinator.

The name is made up of DSU’s passion for cyber mixed with “ology,” which is a subject of study, discipline or branch of knowledge.

Burris, who is the host of “Cyberology,” was inspired to start the podcast after attending a 2019 conference about marketing in higher education. The session she attended focused on developing podcasts for universities and the benefits that go along with it.

Some of those benefits include the ability to highlight specific programs, appeal to a variety of audiences, disseminate research and increase awareness about DSU and its ever-growing cyber profile.

“We want the podcast to focus on cyber by utilizing our experts on campus and, potentially in the future, strengthening our partnerships with businesses and organizations that work with us,” Burris said.

After a brief pause on the project because of the COVID-19 pandemic, Burris, along with Kelli Koepsell, director of marketing and communications, set the plans for the podcast in motion in the fall of 2020 and launched “Cyberology” May 6.

The topic of the first episode was cybercrime. Guests were Ashley Podhradsky, interim vice president for research and economic development, associate dean of The Beacom College of Computer and Cyber Sciences and associate professor of information assurance and forensics, and Arica Kulm, lead digital forensic analyst.

The second episode, set to air next week, features Austin O’Brien, assistant professor of computer science, and his expertise regarding artificial intelligence. Gabe Mydland, associate professor of education and Title IX coordinator, served as co-host. Jack Walters, professor of management and coordinator for the MBA program, will be featured in the series as well.

Although the podcast mainly focuses on cyber, it’s not going to be the only topic discussed. The podcast will encompass all four colleges at DSU, giving listeners a chance to bend their ear on conversations centered around universal concerns, critical infrastructure hacking, the impact of technology in the field of English, gaming, using technology for accessibility and drone usage in art.

Further topics include tech tools in the classroom with the College of Education, business plan competition and entrepreneurial endeavors, how algorithms define us and the impact of digital marketing.

While the topics may sound like high-tech, Burris assures everyone that “we keep a conversational tone that people can follow along with.”

A good Raap

As any student knows, getting experience in a chosen field before graduation is highly encouraged.

For digital arts and design graduate Spencer Raap, this experience came about when Burris enlisted the help of David Kenley, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, and Sandra Champion, director of music programs.

Together, they created a partnership with DSU’s sound design program to offer an opportunity for students to be involved in the production of a podcast and graduate with professional experience for their resumes.

Champion enlisted the help of Raap, who used “Cyberology” as the framework for his undergraduate research project. From there, the podcast officially made waves.

“My favorite part was getting to be part of something bigger than myself. This project will continue on now that I’ve graduated,” Raap said.

Those capabilities also shone through in DSU’s recording studio, where Raap set up microphones, routing cables and headphones, as well as installing software. When recording began, he adjusted levels and other configurations to ensure comfortability for everyone involved. He also is credited as podcast producer in “Cyberology’s” first five episodes.

After conversations closed, Raap took home audio files and began the editing process. Though tedious with having to omit “ahs” and “ums,” in addition to adding musical transitions known as bumpers and stingers, Raap thoroughly enjoyed the whole process.

“I enjoyed the whole process from start to finish. DSU gave me the chance to enhance my digital audio workstation capabilities through a real, meaningful practice and learn proper techniques for recording, mixing and mastering,” Raap said.

Students who are in the digital arts and design program at DSU also will have their chance at being a podcast producer for “Cyberology.” In fact, students Xander Morrison and Lumin Johnson also will be credited for podcast episodes three through five.

Each episode contains a note that states who produced it, giving students legitimate podcast credit for recording and editing. Ultimately, it provides them with hands-on experience and a huge boost to their resume.

“We have so many skilled students on campus,” Burris said. “They’re gaining invaluable experience in addition to the work they’re doing in their program by helping us produce ‘Cyberology.’ We’re all so proud and excited to continue to showcase what DSU has to offer.”

“Cyberology” is hosted through Acast and is available on Spotify, Stitcher, the DSU website, and Apple Podcasts.