Episoder
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Dustin sat down with Joel Podolny, CEO of Honor Education, to discuss his journey from founding Apple University to pioneering a new approach to digital education. Joel reflects on the importance of human connection in learning and how asynchronous tools can elevate collaborative experiences. He emphasizes that technology should enhance, not replace, the social and emotional dynamics of education. He shares how Honor Education aims to bridge the gap between traditional and digital learning environments by putting community at the heart of the learning process.
Guest Name: Joel Podolny, CEO of Honor Education
Guest Social: LinkedIn
Guest Bio: Joel Podolny is the CEO and Co-Founder of Honor Education, a company that puts human connection at the center of how we learn, teach, and train online. Previously, Joel was handpicked by Steve Jobs to be the founding Dean of Apple University. As a Vice President at Apple, Joel oversaw management training and the development of Apple’s culture of learning for over a decade. Prior to Apple, Joel served as Dean and Professor of Management at the Yale School of Management. Joel previously held professorships at Harvard Business School and the Stanford Graduate School of Business where he researched status dynamics in a variety of industries and the role of social networks in mobility and information transfer within organizations. Joel is an accomplished speaker and educator who speaks regularly at corporate and academic events.
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Connect With Our Host:
Dustin Ramsdell
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/
https://twitter.com/HigherEd_GeekAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too! Some of our favorites include Generation AI and I Wanna Work There.Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.
Attend the 2025 Engage Summit!
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register
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This week, we’re featuring a conversation with Sara Leoni, CEO of Ziplines Education, about how her company partners with universities to offer industry-aligned certificate programs designed to upskill adult learners into tech-adjacent careers. Sara shares insights on the evolving workforce, the need for flexible, accessible education, and the importance of addressing regional disparities in education and employment opportunities. They also discuss the significance of building community through learning and the role of universities in providing career pathways for mainstream America.
Guest Name: Sara Leoni, CEO at Ziplines Education
Guest Social: LinkedIn
Guest Bio: Sara Leoni is CEO and founder of Ziplines Education, a market-driven education company that partners with universities to deliver industry-focused certificate courses that prepare professionals for today’s digital-first workforce. The company recently announced its $6.4 million Series A funding to help close the skills gap. With a career spanning more than 20 years, Sara thrives on building, focusing, and motivating high-performing teams to solve big programs, while delivering significant growth in high-impact businesses. As a sought-after thought leader, she has been a speaker at industry-leading events and conferences, such as the ASU+GSV Summit; Dreamforce, Salesforce’s annual international event; and UPCEA Annual Conference, the premier event for thought leaders and practitioners in the fields of professional, continuing, and online education. Prior to launching Ziplines Education, Sara was CEO of Rafter, a $50 million course-material, technology-management company that served hundreds of colleges nationwide, where she spearheaded efforts saving students half a billion dollars.
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Connect With Our Host:
Dustin Ramsdell
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/
https://twitter.com/HigherEd_GeekAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too! Some of our favorites include Generation AI and I Wanna Work There.Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.
Attend the 2025 Engage Summit!
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register
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Mangler du episoder?
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In this insightful conversation, Dustin speaks with Kat Liendgens, CEO of Hannon Hill, about the unique challenges international students face when navigating university websites and how institutions can enhance their online presence to attract and support global learners. Kat shares her personal experience as an international student, discusses the evolving role of marketing and IT in higher ed, and highlights key strategies for improving website usability. This episode is packed with practical tips on how universities can reduce friction for international students and create an inclusive, personalized digital experience.
Guest Name: Kat Liendgens, CEO at Hannon Hill
Guest Social: LinkedIn
Guest Bio: Kat Liendgens has been the CEO of Hannon Hill since 2011, guiding the company to become a leader in web content management systems, particularly in higher education. Kat began her career at Hannon Hill as the Professional Services Manager and quickly rose through the ranks, becoming COO and later CEO within two years.
Before joining Hannon Hill, she held leadership roles in IT, including Associate Dean of IT and IT Manager. Under Kat’s leadership, Hannon Hill has achieved significant milestones, including the launch of the Cascade Cloud offering and a complete overhaul of the Cascade 8 user interface. She has also led the development of Clive, Hannon Hill’s web personalization platform, positioning the company at the forefront of web personalization long before it became a standard in the industry.
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Connect With Our Host:
Dustin Ramsdell
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/
https://twitter.com/HigherEd_GeekAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too! Some of our favorites include Generation AI and I Wanna Work There.Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.
Attend the 2025 Engage Summit!
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register
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In this special episode recorded live at EdTech Week 2024 in New York City, Kevin Harrington from Rize Education discusses the evolution of higher education, emphasizing the importance of collaboration among institutions, the integration of AI in curricula, and the need to adapt to changing student demands. He shares insights on how Rize Education aims to provide a high-quality educational experience while addressing the challenges faced by smaller regional colleges. The discussion highlights the significance of networking at events like EdTech Week and the potential for innovative partnerships to enhance educational offerings.
Guest Name: Kevin Harrington, Co-Founder & CEO at Rize Education
Guest Social: LinkedIn
Guest Bio: Kevin Harrington co-founded Rize Education in 2019. After working on Wall Street for The Blackstone Group, Kevin moved to rural Michigan, along with Rize’s other co-founders, to learn first hand about the challenges facing higher education at Adrian College. His deep passion for expanding access to education and economic mobility is core to everything we do at Rize.
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Connect With Our Host:
Dustin Ramsdell
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/
https://twitter.com/HigherEd_GeekAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too! Some of our favorites include Generation AI and I Wanna Work There.Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.
Attend the 2025 Engage Summit!
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register
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This week, Dustin chats with Shawn Boom, CEO of Labster, about the transformative power of immersive learning technologies like virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR). Shawn shares how Labster is reshaping the educational landscape, particularly in STEM fields, by providing students with hands-on, immersive learning experiences. These technologies not only make learning more accessible and engaging but also help students gain the confidence they need to thrive in high-demand fields like healthcare and STEM. They discuss the challenges in education today, from shrinking student populations to the need for relevant, modern learning experiences.
Guest Name: Shawn Boom, CEO at Labster
Guest Social: LinkedIn
Guest Bio: Shawn Boom currently serves as the CEO of Labster. Shawn’s prior roles in the edtech industry include working nine-plus years with Blackboard, the online learning management system (LMS) now part of Anthology, where he held the position of global vice president. He previously spent five-plus years as director of sales for The Active Network, with a focus on the higher education market. Most recently, he spent nearly six years with K12 and non-profit focused fintech provider Vanco, serving as CEO and Executive Chairman.
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Connect With Our Host:
Dustin Ramsdell
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/
https://twitter.com/HigherEd_GeekAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too! Some of our favorites include Generation AI and I Wanna Work There.Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.
Attend the 2025 Engage Summit!
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register
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In this episode, Dustin is joined by Tara Gilboa, a former educator and current Executive Director of Colorado's Tech Talent Partnership. Together, they explore the growing need for local workforce development, particularly in tech and cybersecurity, and how Colorado is addressing this challenge with innovative pathways for students. Tara shares insights on the importance of collaboration between educators, employers, and learners, and how this approach can make education more equitable and aligned with real-world job demands.
Guest Name: Tara Gilboa, Executive Director of Tech Talent Partnership
Guest Social: LinkedIn
Guest Bio: Tara is the Executive Director of The Tech Talent Partnership, where she strives to increase economic mobility for Coloradans through employer-led pipeline management solutions. She is a former Entrepreneur-in-Residence with the Techstars Workforce Development Accelerator and education leader for several public education institutions. Most recently as the Platform Programs Director at M13 Ventures, she supported the former executive team from Digital Ocean to launch playbooks for hiring and recruiting, organizational design, and OKR frameworks. She is committed to supporting Coloradan businesses thrive through best-in-class employer-ready talent and to championing education institutions to deliver streamlined pathways.
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Connect With Our Host:
Dustin Ramsdell
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/
https://twitter.com/HigherEd_GeekAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too! Some of our favorites include Generation AI and I Wanna Work There.Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.
Attend the 2025 Engage Summit!
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register
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In this dynamic episode, Nicole Baldassarre, Strategic Activator at Beyond Academics, joins Dustin to discuss the intersection of human-centered skills, AI, and higher education transformation. Nicole shares her journey into ed tech, explores the role of empathy and emotional intelligence in today's evolving workforce, and emphasizes the importance of technology as a tool to empower—not replace—human potential. From AI-driven efficiencies to the need for human connection, this conversation dives deep into how institutions can leverage both technology and human skills to stay ahead.
Guest Name: Nicole Baldassarre, Strategic Activator at Beyond Academics
Guest Social: LinkedIn
Guest Bio: Nicole Baldassarre is the Strategic Activator at Beyond Academics, leveraging her strengths in seeing patterns where others see complexity to develop human-centered strategies that inspire action across higher ed. Nicole leads with curiosity and authenticity, and is passionate about restoring the lost art of human connection in the networked age. In her free time you can find her hosting gatherings accompanied by her signature cheese and charcuterie boards and/or bothering her fluffy, grumpy-face orange cat, Ziggy.
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Connect With Our Host:
Dustin Ramsdell
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/
https://twitter.com/HigherEd_GeekAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too! Some of our favorites include Generation AI and I Wanna Work There.Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.
Attend the 2025 Engage Summit!
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register
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This week, Dustin is joined by Eloy Ortiz Oakley, President and CEO of the College Futures Foundation, host of The Rant podcast, and former Chancellor of California Community Colleges. Eloy shares his perspective on the shifting landscape of higher education as it evolves beyond focusing solely on access and completion. Eloy shares his insights on the critical need to rethink higher ed’s role in driving economic mobility, especially for underserved students. He also dives into how higher education can create more opportunities for more students to achieve real-world outcomes in a skills-based economy. Finally, Eloy offers practical advice for higher ed leaders on staying authentic and student-centric in their approach.
Guest Name: Eloy Ortiz Oakley, President & CEO of College Futures Foundation
Guest Social: LinkedIn
Guest Bio: Eloy Ortiz Oakley is an experienced and nationally recognized higher education leader and a champion for equity in higher education. He has a clear track record of designing and implementing policy reforms that improve outcomes for students of all backgrounds. Eloy is also an experienced board member and advisor that actively engages in challenging the status quo. He is skilled in visualizing the future and developing strategies that leverage trends, technologies and evolving perceptions in higher education.
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Connect With Our Host:
Dustin Ramsdell
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/
https://twitter.com/HigherEd_GeekAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too! Some of our favorites include Generation AI and I Wanna Work There.Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.
Attend the 2025 Engage Summit!
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register
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Dustin is joined by David Marchick, Dean of American University's Kogod School of Business, and Angela Virtu, Professorial Lecturer, to discuss how AI is reshaping business education. They share insights into Kogod’s AI curriculum, which aims to equip all students, regardless of their major, with AI literacy. They talk about the importance of adapting to AI’s growing presence and the practical steps Kogod is taking to ensure students remain competitive in an evolving job market.
Guest Names:
David Marchick, Dean at Kogod School of Business at American University
Angela Virtu, Professorial Lecturer at Kogod School of Business at American UniversityGuest Socials:
David - LinkedIn
Angela - LinkedInGuest Bios:
David Marchick serves as Dean of the Kogod School of Business at American University. In this role, he leads the school’s work to support more than 2,000 students and offer more than two dozen undergraduate and graduate degree and certification programs.
Since Marchick took on the role of Dean in August 2022, the Kogod School of Business has unveiled major initiatives in sustainability, AI and entrepreneurship; raised more than the previous 10 years combined; attracted its largest-ever first-year undergraduate class; and almost doubled the number of endowed chairs for the school.Angela Virtu is a Professorial Lecturer in the IT & Analytics department at American University’s Kogod School of Business, where she teaches courses on technology, data analytics, machine learning, and artificial intelligence (AI). As the AI Instructional Faculty Fellow, she leads Kogod’s AI strategy and spearheads faculty and staff training initiatives. Prior to academia, Angela developed AI and machine learning solutions that bridged theoretical innovation with practical, ethical applications, driving organizational integration and measurable business impact.
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Connect With Our Host:
Dustin Ramsdell
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/
https://twitter.com/HigherEd_GeekAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too! Some of our favorites include Generation AI and I Wanna Work There.Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.
Attend the 2025 Engage Summit!
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register
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In this episode, Dustin Ramsdell sits down with Dr. Raye Mahlberg, Assistant Vice President for Learner Experience at Nightingale College, to discuss the innovative ways the institution is transforming nursing education. From using augmented and virtual reality to providing flexible, fully online programs, Nightingale College is making nursing education more accessible, particularly in underserved rural areas. Dr. Mahlberg shares insights on how these strategies are helping to address the nursing shortage and improving healthcare outcomes in communities across the country.
Guest Name: Dr. Raye Mahlberg, Assistant Vice President for Learner Experience at Nightingale College
Guest Social: LinkedIn
Guest Bio: With over 20 years of experience in higher education leadership, Dr. Raye Mahlberg is a dedicated and innovative professional who strives to create positive and impactful learning experiences for students. As the Assistant Vice President of Learner Experience at Nightingale College, she oversees the wraparound support services for the institution’s nursing learners.
Raye’s core competencies include curriculum development, enrollment management, training and development, presentation skills training, and student development. She enjoys finding creative solutions to problems, and helping others to be the best they can be. Raye’s mission is to empower learners to achieve their educational and career goals, and to contribute to the advancement of knowledge and society.
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Connect With Our Host:
Dustin Ramsdell
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/
https://twitter.com/HigherEd_GeekAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too! Some of our favorites include Generation AI and I Wanna Work There.Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.
Attend the 2025 Engage Summit!
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register
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We’re immensely proud to feature a thought-provoking conversation with Michael Horn on the podcast this week. Michael is a leading authority on education innovation and disruption who has written several books about the sector, such as Choosing College and the forthcoming title, Job Moves. He is also the co-host of the fantastic Future U Podcast. Michael shares his perspectives on the evolving landscape of higher education, the importance of adopting new learning models, and strategies for institutions to stay relevant and effective in a rapidly changing world.
Guest Name: Michael Horn - Author, Speaker, Podcaster and Professor
Guest Social: LinkedIn
Guest Bio: Michael Horn is the co-founder of and a distinguished fellow at the Clayton Christensen Institute for Disruptive Innovation, a non-profit think tank, and teaches at the Harvard Graduate School of Education. He cohosts the top education podcasts Future U and Class Disrupted. He is a regular contributor to Forbes.com and writes the Substack newsletter The Future of Education. Michael also serves as an executive editor at Education Next, and his work has been featured in outlets such as TheNew York Times, The Washington Post, The Atlantic, Harvard Business Review, and NBC.
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Connect With Our Host:
Dustin Ramsdell
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/
https://twitter.com/HigherEd_GeekAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too! Some of our favorites include Generation AI and I Wanna Work There.Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.
Attend the 2025 Engage Summit!
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register
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This week, we’re joined by Dr. Meghan Grace, a dynamic higher education consultant, researcher, and host of the #GenZ Podcast. Meghan shares her expertise on the importance of knowing your people, implementing data-informed strategies, and fostering a collaborative culture in higher education institutions. She discusses the challenges and opportunities in navigating change management and highlights the necessity of clear, stakeholder-informed strategic plans.
Guest Name: Dr. Meghan Grace - Freelance Researcher, Author, Speaker, and Podcaster
Guest Social: LinkedIn
Guest Bio: Dr. Meghan Grace is a passionate researcher, consultant, and speaker who thrives on empowering individuals and organizations to tackle problems by developing sustainable solutions. Through research, assessment, strategic planning, and project planning & management, she helps others leverage data to inform their planning and decision-making to increase efficiency and effectiveness.
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Connect With Our Host:
Dustin Ramsdell
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/
https://twitter.com/HigherEd_GeekAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too! Some of our favorites include Generation AI and I Wanna Work There.Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.
Attend the 2025 Engage Summit!
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register
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We’re pleased to have with us this week Phil Hill, a seasoned expert in educational technology and market analysis who writes regularly for his On EdTech newsletter. Phil shares his extensive experience in consulting and analyzing market trends, particularly in the context of the current financial challenges facing higher education and EdTech companies. Phil shares relevant insights about global higher ed from his podcast, Online Education Across the Atlantic. They also discuss the recent bankruptcies and acquisitions in the sector, the ongoing enrollment crisis, and the potential for future innovation and investment in education technology.
Guest Name: Phil Hill - Blogger, Speaker, and Market Analyst at Phil Hill & Associates
Guest Social: LinkedIn
Guest Bio: Phil Hill has been a market analyst and consultant in EdTech for over two decades. He is most notably recognized for publishing the On EdTech blog and newsletter, which began in 2019 after he decided to separate from the e-Literate brand and blaze his own trail. Revered for his honest and upfront take on market trends for online / hybrid education, OPMs, and learning platforms, Phil provides thoughtful and practical advice to his clients. His unique graphics and visuals have been widely used and shared in the education space. Phil is also a husband, father, and grandfather. He enjoys being outdoors, spending time with his Australian Shepard, craft beer, and live music.
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Connect With Our Host:
Dustin Ramsdell
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/
https://twitter.com/HigherEd_GeekAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too! Some of our favorites include Generation AI and I Wanna Work There.Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.
Attend the 2025 Engage Summit!
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register
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In this week’s episode, Dustin with Kaitlin Dumont, the self-proclaimed Mrs. Maisel of EdTech, about the future of higher education. Kaitlin shares insights from her diverse background and delves into the importance of strategic partnerships as well as her perspective on the digital transformation driving the evolving landscape of higher ed. They also discuss the value of intimate, community-driven events like EdTechWeek, professional communities like the Future of Higher Ed group, and the forthcoming integration of education with the workforce.
As a reminder, EdTechWeek tickets are selling fast – register now and use the promo code GEEK2024 for 20% off your ticket to join us in NYC!
Guest Name: Kaitlin Dumont, Higher Education Consulting Director at Huron
Guest Social: LinkedIn
Guest Bio: Kaitlin Dumont’s expertise lies at the intersection of higher education and workforce learning. Dumont has been featured in several publications, including Inside Higher Ed and Education Technology Insights. Previously, Dumont played an instrumental role in shaping executive development programs at 2 of the most prestigious institutions: the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth College and Harvard Business School. As an advisor, she worked closely with C-Suite executives and Fortune 500 corporations, offering strategic guidance on learning and development priorities. Crucially, she led the charge in curating flagship portfolios of residential executive programs and spearheaded the launch of innovative online initiatives, ensuring the delivery of top-notch learning experiences. Dumont completed her undergraduate studies at Tufts University and holds an MBA from the Questrom School of Business at Boston University, as well as an Instructional Designer Certificate from the Online Learning Consortium. She currently lives in Lewiston, Maine, where she shares her life with her husband and two children.
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Connect With Our Host:
Dustin Ramsdell
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/
https://twitter.com/HigherEd_GeekAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too! Some of our favorites include Generation AI and I Wanna Work There.Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.
Attend the 2025 Engage Summit!
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register
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This week, Dustin chats with fellow Enrollify host of the Visionary Voices podcast, Bryan Gross, Vice President for Enrollment Management and Athletics at Hartwick College. Brian shares his unique journey from international admissions to his current role, highlighting key moments and strategies that have shaped his career. They also discuss the importance of building strong foundational systems, the role of collaboration in higher education, and how digital transformation is impacting enrollment management.
Guest Name: Dr. Bryan Gross, Vice President for Enrollment Management & Athletics at Hartwick College
Guest Social: LinkedIn
Guest Bio: Dr. Bryan Gross is the vice president for enrollment management and athletics at Hartwick College. Gross most recently served as vice president of revenue planning and institutional positioning at 3 Enrollment Marketing, Inc., an enrollment and retention solutions and services provider. Prior to his role at 3E, Gross served as vice president for enrollment management and marketing, and as interim vice president of student affairs at Western New England University in Springfield, MA. Before that, he was the associate vice president of enrollment management at St. John’s University in Queens, NY. and associate vice president of admissions, dean of admissions, and director of international admissions at the University of Bridgeport, Bridgeport, CT.
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Connect With Our Host:
Dustin Ramsdell
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/
https://twitter.com/HigherEd_GeekAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too! Some of our favorites include Generation AI and I Wanna Work There.Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.
Attend the 2025 Engage Summit!
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register
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We’re sharing an extra dose of podcasting goodness with this recently released episode of the Next Practices podcast from Civitas Learning. Dustin was interviewed by Katy about what he’s learned from years of podcasting and thoughts on trends in developing meaningful digital experiences for students.
Guest Name: Katy Oliveira, Head of Content Marketing at Civitas Learning
Guest Social: LinkedIn
Guest Bio: Katy Oliveira is a creative and strategic senior content marketer with experience producing resonant content experiences in multiple media formats. She is skilled in developing and executing comprehensive content strategies that drive brand awareness, engagement, and conversion across owned and paid channels. Katy is an experienced manager passionate about helping others hone their unique superpowers to reach their goals and contribute to a successful team.
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Connect With Our Host:
Dustin Ramsdell
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/
https://twitter.com/HigherEd_GeekAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too! Some of our favorites include Generation AI and I Wanna Work There.Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.
Attend the 2025 Engage Summit!
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register
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Dustin is pleased to sit down with Dr. Bridget Burns, CEO of the University Innovation Alliance (UIA). Bridget shares her journey of leading the UIA, focusing on scaling innovative ideas to improve student outcomes across universities. They discuss the challenges and triumphs of fostering innovation in higher education, the impact of institutional closures, and the importance of empathy and user-centered design in creating effective educational experiences.
Guest Name: Dr. Bridget Burns, CEO at the University Innovation Alliance
Guest Social: LinkedIn
Guest Bio: As a trusted advisor to university presidents and policymakers, Dr. Bridget Burns is on a mission to transform the way institutions think about and take action on behalf of low-income, first generation, and students of color. She is the founding CEO of the University Innovation Alliance, a multi-campus laboratory for student success innovation that helps university leaders dramatically accelerate the implementation of scalable solutions to increase the number and diversity of college graduates.
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Connect With Our Host:
Dustin Ramsdell
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/
https://twitter.com/HigherEd_GeekAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too! Some of our favorites include Generation AI and I Wanna Work There.Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.
Attend the 2025 Engage Summit!
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register
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Dustin is pleased to sit down with Mike Marriner, Co-Founder and President of Roadtrip Nation, for this week’s episode. Mike shares the incredible journey of Roadtrip Nation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping students explore career options through real stories and experiences. Mike shares how Roadtrip Nation's unique approach to career exploration is transforming lives and empowering the next generation to find their paths in the evolving future of work.
Guest Name: Mike Marriner, Co-Founder and President at Roadtrip Nation
Guest Social: LinkedIn
Guest Bio: As co-founder and President of Roadtrip Nation, Mike Marriner leads the organization's media and education efforts that empower people from all backgrounds to define their own roads in life. For over 15 years, Mike has developed a range of media and education partnerships that distribute Roadtrip Nation content to over 60 million households, 14 million students, and over 12,000 schools each year. Roadtrip Nation has been awarded the Excellence in Programming award by American Public Television, two Telly awards, and won the 2019 Lone Star Regional Emmy Award for the film, Room to Grow. Mike has co-authored all 4 Roadtrip Nation books including Roadmap (Chronicle Books), which hit the NY Times best-seller list in 2018. Mike is also an Ashoka Fellow, a network of leading social entrepreneurs, and has been featured in prominent news outlets including the NBC Today Show, CBS Early Show, BBC News, Outside, Fast Company, Forbes, Esquire, USA Today and many others. He graduated from Pepperdine University with a double major in Biology / Sports Medicine, and attended The Harvard Business School Social Enterprise Program in 2012.
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Connect With Our Host:
Dustin Ramsdell
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/
https://twitter.com/HigherEd_GeekAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too! Some of our favorites include Generation AI and I Wanna Work There.Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.
Attend the 2025 Engage Summit!
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register
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This week, Dustin chats with Sophie Smith, CEO and Founder of College Contact. Sophie shares her inspiring journey from founding the company in her dorm room to leading a successful platform that bridges the gap between high school and college experiences. She also details how College Contact leverages near-peer mentorship and advanced digital tools to revolutionize college admissions and student success.
Guest Name: Sophie Smith, Founder & CEO at College Contact
Guest Social: LinkedIn
Guest Bio: Sophie Smith is the founder and CEO of College Contact which serves the 75% of college applicants who apply alone every year. Since its inception, College Contact has served over 2,500 students, reached 16M people on social media, and grown their counselor network to 100+ college counselors nationwide. Sophie's accolades include being named Student Entrepreneur of the Year by the Charlottesville Business Innovation Council and winning the Global EdTech Company of the Year award from InvestHer. She graduated from the University of Virginia with a B.S. in Commerce at the McIntire School of Commerce with concentrations in Marketing and Information Technology, an Innovation Entrepreneurship minor and a track in Business Analytics.
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Connect With Our Host:
Dustin Ramsdell
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/
https://twitter.com/HigherEd_GeekAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too! Some of our favorites include Generation AI and I Wanna Work There.Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.
Attend the 2025 Engage Summit!
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register
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This week, Dustin talks with Dr. Joseph Orgel from Illinois Institute of Technology about the innovative Empowerment Leadership and Mentorship (ELM) program he developed. Dr. Orgel shares his journey in academia, emphasizing the importance of mentorship and the development of durable skills for student success. They also discuss the program's impact on academic performance, graduation rates, and the overall student experience. Lastly, Dr. Orgel highlights the critical role of peer mentorship and the positive effects of creating a supportive and empowering academic culture.
Guest Name: Dr. Joseph Orgel, Vice Provost for Academic Affairs at Illinois Institute of Technology
Guest Social Handles: LinkedIn
Guest Bio: Dr. Joseph Orgel is a visionary with a passion for innovation and collaboration. He is a relentless research leader in multi- and cross-disciplinary R&D, delving into areas such as the molecular organization of tissues, X-Ray diffraction, neurology, social influence, generative AI and applied learning. His diverse background spans academia, research, and business, giving him a unique perspective on leadership and problem-solving. Joseph's expertise in industrial R&D, business administration, and strategic planning is complemented by his commitment to fostering strong relationships and championing personal development. As a skilled communicator and dedicated mentor, Joseph inspires those around him to reach their full potential.
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Connect With Our Host:
Dustin Ramsdell
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/
https://twitter.com/HigherEd_GeekAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too! Some of our favorites include Generation AI and I Wanna Work There.Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.
Attend the 2025 Engage Summit!
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register
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