The Higher Ed Geek Podcast

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 edu...

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...

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 experie...

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...

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 betwee...

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—...

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...

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 ste...

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...

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 l...

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 highlig...

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...

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-driv...

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,...

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 G...

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-c...

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 empowerin...

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 studen...

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 t...

Joining the show this week is Aneesh Sohoni , CEO of One Million Degrees , a nonprofit dedicated to supporting community college students. Aneesh shares his personal and professional journey that led him to this impactful work, discusses the comprehensive support model of One Million Degrees, and emphasizes the importance of community colleges in today’s educational landscape. Together, they explo...

This week, we’re pleased to welcome back Robert Li , Owner of University FM . They delve into the mission and vision behind Professors FM , a network dedicated to helping scholars communicate their research to the general public through podcasts. Robert shares his journey from college radio to creating a platform that empowers faculty members to engage with broader audiences. They discuss the bene...

In this special live episode recorded at the 2024 Engage Summit in Raleigh, NC, Dustin chats with Jenny who shares her journey in social media management, her approach to embracing digital transformation, and the importance of authenticity in building online communities. They discuss the evolving landscape of social media, the integration of new platforms like BeReal, and the strategic decisions b...

In this special live episode recorded at the 2024 Engage Summit in Raleigh, NC, Dustin chats with Allison, host of The Application podcast , who shares her insights on enrollment marketing, the importance of digital transformation, and how AI can enhance human connection in higher education. They discuss practical strategies for recruiting prospective students and the critical role of personalizat...

This week, we’re featuring Dr. Sara Haviland , Senior Measurement Scientist at ETS , to discuss the evolving landscape of college admissions. She delves into the complexities of standardized testing, holistic admissions, and the impact of recent societal changes on these processes. Sara provides insights from her research and experience, highlighting the importance of a balanced approach that cons...

In this special live episode recorded at the 2024 Engage Summit in Raleigh, NC, Dustin chats with Maya about her podcast, "The Hidden Gem," which aims to transform the narrative around community colleges. She emphasizes the importance of marketing and communications in elevating community colleges' profiles and addresses the challenges they face, including limited resources and under-appreciation....