The Higher Ed Geek Podcast

We welcome Montana Houston, founder of rYOUminate, to the show this week to chat about addressing the “hidden curriculum” of higher education—life skills like financial literacy, career readiness, and self-advocacy that many students are expected to know but are rarely taught. They explore how gaps in infrastructure and capacity have left institutions struggling to deliver this support at scale, and how personalized, tech-enabled solutions can help bridge the divide. Guest Name: Montana Houston - CEO & Founder @ rYOUminate Guest Social: LinkedIn Guest Bio: Montana Houston is the founder of rYOUminate, a life skills edtech company personalizing adulthood for 18 to 30-year-olds and the higher education institutions that support them. As a first-generation college student at the University of Southern California, she experienced firsthand how much of adulthood is shaped by unspoken expectations. She founded rYOUminate to make those expectations visible, navigable, and less isolating. Today, rYOUminate delivers research-backed programming, reflection-driven tools, and thoughtful resources that help young adults build confidence in life's biggest transitions. Through work with customers such as the University of Washington and YMCA of King County, the company has driven a 2.5x increase in confidence and a 5x increase in knowledge among participants. Montana brings experience across law, financial literacy, and inclusion-focused leadership, and her work has been recognized by SXSW EDU, Venture Black, Urban Impact, and Business Impact Northwest. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About 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!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this bonus episode recorded live at the ASU+GSV summit in San Diego, we chatted with Raghu Krishnaiah from the University of Phoenix about how AI is being used to identify and close skills gaps between education and the workforce. They explore how embedding skills-based learning, aligning employer needs with curriculum, and leveraging data-driven insights can better prepare students—especially working adults—for evolving career demands.  The conversation also highlights broader implications for employers and institutions, emphasizing the need for continuous learning, faster adaptation, and greater collaboration across the ecosystem to ensure individuals aren't left behind in an AI-driven economy.  Check out University of Phoenix's recent Career Optimism Index to learn more about the research that was referenced throughout this conversation. Guest Name: Raghu Krishnaiah, COO, University of Phoenix Guest Social: LinkedIn Guest Bio: Raghu Krishnaiah serves as the chief operating officer at University of Phoenix, where he is instrumental in the transformation of the University and responsible for all operating strategy and results. As part of his responsibilities, Krishnaiah oversees all student academic, financial aid, enrollment, technology and career advising; corporate, tribal and community college relationships; product development; operational analytics; regional campuses; and business innovation. Krishnaiah is an innovative leader experienced in turning transformative products and business concepts into successful global companies by bridging the gap between strategy and execution. He holds strong expertise in data monetization and analytics that drives faster, more accurate decision-making in start-ups, turnarounds and Fortune 500 companies. His career as a seasoned change agent and strategist spans more than 20 years of progressive P&L management, strategy, sales and marketing, product development, operations, technology and Board responsibilities. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About 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!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We're pleased to welcome back Shai Reshef, founder of University of the People, to the show to talk more about his institution's unique tuition-free, globally accessible model. We explore how aligning academic programs with workforce demand, while maintaining a strong foundation in critical thinking and general education, can create more equitable and sustainable pathways for students worldwide.  The conversation also highlights the rise of stackable certificates, the importance of affordability and relevance, and why institutions must rethink traditional structures to better serve today's learners and remain viable in a rapidly changing landscape. Guest Name: Shai Reshef - President and Founder of University of the People Guest Social: LinkedIn Guest Bio: An educational entrepreneur, Shai Reshef has over 25 years of experience in the international education market. Currently he is the President and Founder of University of the People. Previously, Shai served as Chairman of the Kidum Group, a for-profit educational services company. He also chaired KIT eLearning, the online learning partner of the University of Liverpool and the first online university outside of the United States. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About 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!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this bonus episode recorded live at the ASU+GSV summit in San Diego, we sat down with Kate Valenti, CEO of Unicon, about how higher education institutions must evolve their digital infrastructure to meet changing learner expectations. They explore the growing importance of interoperability, skills data, and learner-centered design—especially as institutions work to connect education more seamlessly with workforce outcomes.  The conversation also examines how AI is shaping both opportunity and noise in the market, emphasizing the need for a pragmatic, value-driven approach that balances emerging technology with human expertise, judgment, and long-term strategy. Guest Name: Kate Valenti, CEO, Unicon Guest Social: LinkedIn Guest Bio: Kate Valenti leads Unicon's senior executive team and all aspects of corporate operations. Kate is responsible for the profitable execution of the firm's business strategy, balancing outstanding service to clients, significant impact to learners, and enjoyable work experiences for their employees. Throughout her 20+ year career at Unicon, Kate has previously held key leadership roles including Chief Operating Officer and Senior Director of Integrations and Analytics. Previously, Kate worked at Cap Gemini Ernst & Young as a management consultant with a focus on enterprise application integration. Kate is passionate about the impact that well-designed and well-integrated technology can have on the learning experience. During her career in education, Kate has designed and developed integration strategies, programs, and technical services teams, and has delivered dozens of integrated solutions to the market. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About 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!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this bonus episode recorded live at the ASU+GSV summit in San Diego, we sat down with Kaitlin and Peter from Huron about their recent Rise 40 report, which highlights emerging edtech companies reshaping the student lifecycle—from recruitment and retention to career readiness. The report aims to help institutions cut through the noise of AI-driven solutions and make more informed, strategic decisions about digital transformation.  The conversation also explores broader trends in the edtech landscape, emphasizing the need for experimentation, clearer proof of impact, and thoughtful adoption of AI as institutions work to improve student outcomes and navigate a rapidly evolving market. Guest Names: Kaitlin Dumont, Higher Education Consulting Director, Huron Consulting Group  Peter Stokes, Managing Director, Huron Consulting Group Guest Socials: Kaitlin's LinkedInPeter's LinkedIn - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About 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!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this bonus episode recorded live at the ASU+GSV summit in San Diego, we spoke with Melissa Morgan, Co-Founder of Coraltalk, about rethinking student assessment in the age of AI. As written work becomes easier to generate with AI, they explore how spoken assessments—like oral defenses and real-time questioning—can better demonstrate true understanding, critical thinking, and authentic learning.  The conversation highlights how this moment is less about replacing traditional methods and more about evolving them—using AI to scale more personalized, human-centered approaches that help educators truly see, hear, and support their students. Melissa Morgan - Co-Founder & CEO at Coraltalk  Guest Social: LinkedIn Guest Bio: Melissa Morgan is a serial founder, Toptal designer, and DesignLab/GLEAC mentor specializing in digital products and user experience. With a background in psychology and business, she finds the intersection of great design and lucrative strategy. Melissa has worked with startups to Fortune 500s including UEFA, Harvard, NBC Universal, and Forbes. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About 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!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this bonus episode recorded live at the ASU+GSV summit in San Diego, we sat down with David Harris about new initiatives from the event organizers aimed at helping higher ed leaders navigate rapid change—from AI disruption to financial and student wellbeing challenges. They discuss the launch of a Higher Education Insights Board and new research into Gen Z's evolving attitudes toward AI, highlighting rising concerns about learning quality and career prospects.  The conversation emphasizes the need for collaboration, clear guiding principles, and proactive leadership, positioning this moment not as a crisis but as an opportunity for institutions to rethink their role and shape a more resilient, student-centered future. Guest Name: David Harris - SVP, Higher Education at ASU+GSV Summit Guest Social: LinkedIn - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About 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!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This week, Dustin chats with Andy MacIsaac of Laserfiche about how automation, content management, and smarter workflows are reshaping the student experience in higher education. They explore how reducing operational friction—through faster processes, better data visibility, and improved transparency—can build trust with students while also driving enrollment and retention. The conversation highlights how even behind-the-scenes systems play a critical role in shaping student satisfaction, and why institutions must rethink outdated processes to meet modern expectations for speed, service, and digital experiences. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About 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!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this bonus episode recorded live at the ASU+GSV summit in San Diego, we spoke with Geordie Hyland from the American College of Education about building a higher ed model centered on affordability, efficiency, and student outcomes. They explore how a fully online, in-house curriculum approach—combined with a focus on employer alignment and continuous improvement—can deliver high-quality education while keeping costs low and minimizing student debt.  The conversation highlights the importance of rethinking traditional higher ed structures, emphasizing that institutions must prioritize clear ROI, student value, and sustainable operating models to remain relevant and accessible in today's evolving landscape. Guest Name: Geordie Hyland - President & Chief Executive Officer at American College of Education Guest Social: LinkedIn Guest Bio: Geordie Hyland is the President and Chief Executive Officer of the American College of Education (ACE) and is passionate about strengthening human capital and communities. Geordie's education management experience spans Higher Ed, K12, workforce development, allied health, clinical healthcare, continuing medical education and remedial training in online, virtual reality, simulated, hybrid and in-person modalities. Geordie is a former Googler and graduate of Harvard University, where he received a bachelor's degree in English and American literature as well as a master's in business administration from Harvard Business School. He also received a master's degree in industrial relations and personnel management from The London School of Economics and Political Science. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About 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!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this bonus episode recorded live at the ASU+GSV summit in San Diego, we sat down with David McCool of Muzzy Lane about how AI is reshaping teaching, learning, and assessment through interactive simulations and role-play experiences. They explore how these tools can move beyond traditional content recall to help students practice real-world skills in more engaging, dynamic ways.  The conversation highlights the balance between leveraging AI's power and maintaining intentional learning design, emphasizing that while AI can enhance personalization and efficiency, strong structure and human guidance remain essential for meaningful skill development. Guest Name: David McCool - President and CEO at Muzzy Lane Guest Social: LinkedIn Guest Bio: Dave McCool is the President & CEO of Muzzy Lane, a provider of a range of simulation solutions for education and training, utilizing a roleplay format enhanced by AI to provide high quality, flexible, and cost-effective learning and assessment simulations. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About 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!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this bonus episode recorded live at the ASU+GSV summit in San Diego, we chatted with Joseph Thibault of Cursive Technology about the evolving challenge of academic integrity in the age of AI. They explore how traditional approaches to assessment are no longer sufficient, and why institutions must shift their focus from detecting plagiarism to verifying authentic authorship and ensuring learning is tied to the individual student.  The conversation highlights emerging approaches—like behavioral biometrics and student-centered verification tools—that aim to balance trust, flexibility, and accountability. Ultimately, it's a call for higher ed leaders to rethink how learning is assessed and validated in a world where AI is reshaping how work gets done. Guest Name: Joseph Thibault - Founder at Cursive Technology, Inc. Guest Social: LinkedIn - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About 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!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this bonus episode recorded live at the ASU+GSV summit in San Diego, we spoke with Sara Leoni* of Ziplines Education about how higher education institutions can stay relevant in a rapidly changing skills landscape. They explore the growing importance of non-credit, career-aligned programs—especially in areas like AI—and how partnerships can help institutions deliver timely, workforce-ready training at scale.  The conversation highlights the role of continuing education as a strategic asset, the rise of lifelong learning, and why institutions must balance traditional degree programs with more flexible, industry-driven offerings to meet evolving learner and employer needs. *There was a slight audio recording issue that cut the conversation short at the end, so we want to apologize for that hiccup. We nevertheless wanted to make sure we shared this discussion since the majority of the content was still intact. Guest Name: Sara Leoni - CEO at Ziplines Education Guest Social: LinkedIn Guest Bio: With 20+ years of experience spanning management, marketing, and operations, Sara Leoni has built and led high-performing teams across startups and global brands. As CEO of Ziplines Education, a career accelerator that partners with leading colleges and universities to bridge the gap between higher education and industry, she's focused on accelerating growth, delivering results, and shaping the future of education. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About 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!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, Dustin speaks with Brock Price of Terra Dotta about the evolving landscape of global education and the growing complexity behind study abroad and international student programs. They explore how institutions can better support these experiences through smarter systems, improved data visibility, and more coordinated, campus-wide strategies. The conversation highlights why global engagement remains a critical part of higher education—driving student growth, institutional value, and cross-cultural understanding—while emphasizing the need to reduce administrative burden so staff can focus on the human impact of the work. Guest Name: Brock Price - Senior Solutions Engineer at Terra Dotta Guest Social: LinkedIn Guest Bio: Brock Price is a global educator and a Terra Dotta Senior Solutions Engineer working directly with international education professionals. He is passionate about higher ed study abroad and helping professionals optimize their programs and program management. Brock can talk about the value of study abroad overall, the importance of the global educator role and its challenges as well as how optimizing the study abroad processes can help grow study abroad and global exposure in higher ed. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About 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!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this bonus episode recorded live at the Collegis Education DisruptED summit in Phoenix, we spoke with Dan White from NJIT about the evolution of online education and how institutions can build more effective, integrated digital programs. They explore how shifting away from rigid OPM models toward more flexible, capacity-building partnerships enabled NJIT to refine its recruitment strategy and strengthen internal capabilities.  The conversation also highlights the importance of student success initiatives—like proactive coaching and personalized support—in improving retention and creating a more seamless student experience. Ultimately, it's a call for institutions to be intentional, collaborative, and student-centered as they navigate digital transformation and scale online learning. Guest Name: Dr. Daniel White, Associate Provost, New Jersey Institute of Technology Guest Social: LinkedIn - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About 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!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this bonus episode recorded live at the Collegis Education DisruptED summit in Phoenix, we spoke with Marc Austin and Reamer Bushardt to explore how partnerships between higher education institutions and employers can drive more relevant, workforce-aligned learning experiences. Through examples from healthcare and university initiatives, the conversation highlights how co-designed programs, continuous feedback loops, and shared goals can better prepare students for real-world careers.  The discussion emphasizes that successful partnerships require trust, aligned values, and ongoing collaboration—not just transactional agreements. Ultimately, when done well, these partnerships create meaningful pathways for students, improve career outcomes, and strengthen the connection between education and the evolving needs of the workforce. Guest Names:  Dr. Marc Austin, Vice Provost & Managing Director, Montclair Unbound Reamer Bushardt, Provost & VP for Academic Affairs, MGH Institute of Health Professions Guest Socials:Marc's LinkedIn Reamer's LinkedIn Guest Bios: Dr. Marc Austin serves as the Vice Provost and Managing Director for Montclair Unbound, Montclair State University's unit dedicated to extending the reach of the university through online and blended forms of education. Previously, he was the Associate Provost and Dean of Augusta University Online.  Dr. Austin has spent the past two decades launching new, innovative approaches to online, executive and adult learning programs. Dr. Austin has also been a featured speaker for WCET, The Chronicle of Higher Education, ASU/GSV and others. He holds a PhD from Columbia University, a MSc from the London School of Economics and a BA from the University of Pennsylvania. Reamer L. Bushardt, PharmD, PA-C, DFAAPA serves as Professor, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at the MGH Institute of Health Professions, which was founded by the Massachusetts General Hospital and is the only degree granting member of Mass General Brigham. As Provost, he is the Institute's chief academic officer with responsibility for all academic programs, research programs, faculty, and students. Dr. Bushardt is a seasoned educator, researcher, clinician, and administrator with experience in rural, community-based practice and faculty service within four academic health centers. He is licensed as a PA and pharmacist, specializing in the care of older adults and management of inappropriate polypharmacy and drug injury. As a PA, he has spent more than twenty-three years in primary care practice. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About 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!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this bonus episode recorded live at the Collegis Education DisruptED summit in Phoenix, we spoke with Phil Hill and Charlie Rose about the rapidly shifting higher education policy landscape and its implications for institutions. They unpack how recent federal actions—particularly new legislation and accelerated rulemaking—are creating both urgency and uncertainty, while also signaling a longer-term shift toward accountability, affordability, and measurable student outcomes.  The conversation highlights that while the current moment may feel chaotic, many of these changes are driving necessary conversations about return on investment, institutional value, and alignment with workforce needs. Ultimately, it's a call for leaders to stay adaptable, focus on long-term structural shifts rather than short-term noise, and continue innovating in ways that best serve students. Guest Names: Phil Hill - Lead at Phil Hill & Associates  Charlie Rose - Education and Regulatory Partner at Hogan Marren Babbo & Rose  Guest Socials:Phil's LinkedIn Charlie's LinkedIn Guest Bios:  Phil Hill is publisher of the On EdTech blog and lead at Phil Hill & Associates. As a market analyst, Phil has analyzed the growth of technology-enabled change for educational institutions, uncovering and describing the major trends and implications for the broader market. His unique graphics and visual presentations have been widely used in the industry. As an independent consultant, Phil helps educational institutions, technology and content vendors, and policy makers as they consider and implement new initiatives. Charlie Rose is a shareholder at Hogan Marren Babbo & Rose, Ltd., and co-chair of the firm's education practice. Charlie is also the former General Counsel at the U.S. Department of Education. With more than 37 years of experience, Mr. Rose has an established national law practice in the areas of Education Law and Policy, Government & Regulatory Affairs, Corporate Transactions, Civil Rights and Labor & Employment. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About 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!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this week's episode, Dustin speaks with Marshall McClung of Spark451 about insights from the latest Graduate Intenders Survey, exploring how prospective graduate students research, evaluate, and choose programs. The conversation highlights a clear shift toward more pragmatic decision-making, with students prioritizing return on investment, career outcomes, flexibility, and cost when considering graduate education.  They also discuss how the search process is evolving, with increased reliance on social platforms and AI tools alongside traditional channels. Ultimately, the episode underscores the need for institutions to deliver clear, relevant messaging in the right places while remaining responsive and student-centered throughout the recruitment journey. Guest Name: Marshall McClung, Client Strategist, Spark451 Guest Social: LinkedIn Guest Bio: As a Client Strategist at Spark451, Marshall McClung helps partner institutions develop comprehensive, custom enrollment strategies that help them stand out and reach their goals in an increasingly competitive market. Drawing on years of experience working on all sides of the desk, Marshall understands what drives students and how colleges and universities can connect with them authentically and effectively. Prior to joining Spark451, Marshall spent a decade working on college campuses and in high school counseling offices helping students and their families navigate the enrollment process and find their right-fit schools. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About 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!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this bonus episode recorded live at the Collegis Education DisruptED summit in Phoenix, we spoke with Denise Aberle-Cannata, Provost at the College of Western Idaho (CWI). They talk about building a student success model centered on the full student lifecycle—from inquiry through graduation and career placement. By mapping the student journey, the institution identified gaps and redesigned processes to create a more seamless, supportive experience grounded in relationships, not just systems.  The conversation emphasizes the importance of culture, change management, and cross-campus ownership in making student success initiatives stick. While technology played a supporting role in improving efficiency and visibility, the real impact came from aligning people, processes, and purpose around helping every student succeed. Guest Name: Denise Aberle-Cannata - Provost at College of Western Idaho Guest Social: LinkedIn Guest Bio: Since joining the College of Western Idaho in 2019, Denise Aberle-Cannata has led large-scale academic and operational transformation at Idaho's largest community college, serving more than 34,000 students annually. Her work has focused on redesigning the student experience and modernizing how education is delivered — including launching a college-wide CRM to strengthen coordinated student support, launching new LMS, refining and scaling high-quality online learning, and expanding flexible academic models that improve student momentum and completion. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About 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!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this bonus episode recorded live at the Collegis Education DisruptED summit in Phoenix, we spoke with Nathan Grawe from Carleton College about the realities behind higher education's enrollment decline and the looming demographic “cliff.” They explore how shifting birth rates and declining enrollment trends are creating real challenges—especially for tuition-dependent institutions—while also highlighting how retention, student experience, and institutional strategy play a critical role in long-term sustainability.  The conversation emphasizes that there's no single solution, but institutions that listen to students, adapt their culture, and stay aligned with their mission are better positioned to navigate change. Ultimately, it's a call for leaders to approach this moment with urgency, empathy, and a renewed focus on serving students effectively. Guest Name: Nathan Grawe - Professor of Economics at Carleton College Guest Social: LinkedIn Guest Bio: Nathan Grawe is a labor economist whose work studies connections between family background and education acquisition.  In addition to serving on Carleton's faculty since 1999, Nathan served as Associate Dean of the College from 2009 to 2012.  His recent book, Demographics and the Demand for Higher Education (Johns Hopkins University Press) explores the coming effects of recent demographic changes, adjusting headcount data for the probability of attending institutions of various types. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About 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!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this bonus episode recorded live at the Collegis Education DisruptED summit in Phoenix, we spoke with Michael Koskinen from St. John's University about the evolving strategy behind online education and institutional growth. They discuss the challenges of expanding online programs in a competitive market, including shifting away from traditional OPM models toward more flexible, fee-for-service partnerships that allow institutions to stay agile.  The conversation highlights the need for higher ed leaders to rethink long-standing structures—like the four-year model and classroom-based learning—while staying grounded in their mission and focused on student needs. Ultimately, it's a call for institutions to move faster, embrace experimentation, and adapt to changing expectations around flexibility, technology, and the value of a degree. Guest Name: Dr. Michael Koskinen - Chief Online Learning Officer at St. John's University Guest Social: LinkedIn Guest Bio: Dr. Michael Koskinen is an educator with over 20 years of experience adapting traditional collegiate course material into cutting-edge electronic teaching tools for delivery in traditional, hybrid, and online settings. He has demonstrated success managing multi-million-dollar technology budgets, high-profile software deployments, and staff development. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About 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!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this kickoff episode recorded live at the Collegis Education DisruptED summit in Phoenix, we spoke with Dan Antonson and Jeff Certain from the Collegis team about the growing need for better data integration in higher education. They introduce “Connected Core,” a data platform designed to unify siloed systems and create a more complete, actionable view of the student journey.  The conversation explores how tools like the “student digital twin” and AI-powered workflows can transform everything from recruitment to student success by enabling more personalized, efficient, and data-informed experiences. Ultimately, it's a call for institutions to treat data as a strategic asset—investing in governance, integration, and long-term strategy to meet rising student expectations and stay competitive. Guest Names:  Dan Antonson - Associate VP of Analytics & Tech. Solutions at Collegis Education Jeff Certain - Vice President of Marketing and Strategic Solutions at Collegis Education Guest Socials: Dan on LinkedIn Jeff on LinkedIn Guest Bios:  Dan Antonson proudly helps higher education institutions leverage marketing technology to grow enrollment. Dan is an expert in higher education data and the technology systems that create and drive insight — and his role at Collegis allows him to connect and activate data. Dan has more than 15 years of experience in digital analytics, marketing attribution and measurement, and he has a bachelor's degree from the University of Minnesota. In addition, he holds several Google and Ensighten certifications and is a guest lecturer for the University of Minnesota's Hubbard School of Journalism and Mass Communication. Jeff Certain leads marketing strategy and solution architecture at Collegis, helping colleges and universities translate institutional ambition into measurable growth across the student lifecycle. In his role as Vice President of Marketing and Strategic Solutions, Jeff oversees cross-functional teams responsible for B2B marketing, sales enablement, partnership solution design, and data-informed program research. Prior to Collegis, Jeff held multiple marketing leadership roles at Rasmussen University, where he led regional marketing strategy and enterprise digital advertising initiatives across paid search, display, affiliate marketing, and emerging digital channels. Jeff holds an MBA in Marketing and Entrepreneurship from the University of St. Thomas and a Bachelor of Arts in Biology from Indiana University Bloomington.   - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About 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!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this special bonus episode recorded at the recent Illumia Momentum conference, we spoke with several attendees to get their immediate reflections and experiences from the event as it happened. They shared a variety of interesting perspectives on the work being done right now at institutions as they navigate ongoing digital transformation journeys.  Many thanks to everyone who spoke with us:  Toneal Alford, Alcatraz Thomas Butler, TransferMate Jenn Pontes, Western University Harlan Howard, University of Vermont Isaidys Davis, Genea Ernest Burton, Morgan State University Emily Oliver, Illumia Dan Mele, MyVenue - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About 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!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this final bonus episode recorded at the recent Illumia Momentum conference, we talked with Jennifer Chellew from Illumia about their rebrand, how they managed the transition, and the detailed process that went into to everything from choosing a name, choosing colors, to building consensus in a large community of stakeholders. Guest Name: Jennifer Chellew - SVP of Marketing at Illumia Guest Social: LinkedIn Guest Bio: Jennifer Chellew is SVP of Marketing at Illumia, where she leads brand, demand generation, analytics, and marketing operations for a high-growth B2B SaaS company. With more than 25 years of experience across healthcare technology, financial services, and B2B SaaS, Jennifer is known for building marketing organizations that drive pipeline growth and earn executive buy-in through a data centered and operationally sound approach. Her career includes senior marketing leadership roles at Sallie Mae and JP Morgan Chase. Jennifer holds a B.S. in Business Administration from the University of Delaware and is an active community leader in the Delaware area. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About 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!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this special bonus episode recorded at the recent Illumia Momentum conference, we chatted with Jeff Koziol from Allegion about the digital evolutions necessary for institutions to better manage campus security as well as align with current student preferences. Guest Name: Jeff Koziol, Business Development Manager, Allegion Guest Social: LinkedIn Guest Bio: Jeff Koziol works for Allegion as the Vertical Market Leader & Business Development Manager for Higher Education.  He has worked with Allegion (Ingersoll Rand) for 33 years in three different separate businesses with various assignments in Project Management, Product Management, Marketing, Sales, and Business Development.   Jeff is a member of NACCU – the National Association of Campus Card Users – and is a CWNP Certified Wireless Sales Specialist.  He has a passion for working with Higher Education clients and partners to improve campus security while improving the student experience in this area. He has a BS in Mechanical Engineering from WPI in Worcester (MA) and an MBA from RPI in Troy (NY).  He resides in Westfield, Massachusetts with his family. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About 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!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this special bonus episode recorded at the recent Illumia Momentum conference, we spoke with Maydee Ehster from Florida State University about how her and her team have been navigating regulatory changes as well as continued challenges balancing security and convenience for students. Guest Name: Maydee Ehster - Associate Director of Financial Systems at Florida State University Guest Social: LinkedIn Guest Bio: Maydee Ehster is Associate Director of Financial Systems in the Controller's Office at Florida State University. She leads a team that is responsible for administering and supporting enterprise financial systems, including Transact, Concur, Jaggaer, Transcepta, and PaymentWorks. Maydee's responsibilities include oversight of systems integrations, compliance requirements, audit support, and process improvements.  She works closely with campus stakeholders and external vendors to support and enhance efficiencies across our systems. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About 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!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

For this episode, Dustin speaks with Kristen McMullen to explore how the “Designing Your Life” framework is being embedded at the College of Charleston to help students navigate uncertainty, make intentional decisions, and align their education with their goals and values. Kristen explains how the design thinking approach—centered on curiosity, experimentation, and action—empowers students to prototype career paths, build confidence, and reduce anxiety about the future. Guest Name: Kristen McMullen, Executive Director of Student Success, the College of Charleston School of Business Guest Social: LinkedIn Guest Bio: Kristen McMullen has dedicated nearly 20 years of her life to higher education, spearheading career service initiatives, creating programs that connect students with the resources they need to succeed, and bolstering various universities' alumni relations at the likes of the University of Pennsylvania, Penn State University and Duke University. She has earned her masters in Positive Psychology and Coaching Psychology from the University of East London with the goal of extending Success Center services related to our students' wellbeing. Kristen's presidential leadership has elevated organizations including the Junior League, the Jaycees, Penn State's Commission for Women, the Volunteer Center's Community Volunteer in Action organization, and the Penn State Charleston Alumni Chapter. She also founded the Delaware Women's Leadership Summit and the Volunteer Leadership Organization Council of Southwestern Connecticut. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About 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!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this special bonus episode recorded at the recent Illumia Momentum conference, we spoke with returning guest Alison Cove from USEFULL about her ever evolving (and award winning!) work enabling tech enabled sustainability efforts at institutions all over the country. Guest Name: Alison Cove, Founder and CEO, USEFULL Guest Social: LinkedIn Guest Bio: Alison Cove is the founder and CEO of USEFULL, the only tech-enabled, plastic-free takeout container solution for college and university campuses. USEFULL provides the tracking technology and durable containers that schools need to operate a successful zero-waste takeout program that eliminates waste, saves water, and reduces emissions to meet sustainability goals. Alison is committed to eliminating plastic and single-use packaging from the takeout stream at college dining operations, protecting students from microplastics, and driving lasting behavior change around reuse. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About 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!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this special bonus episode recorded at the recent Illumia Momentum conference, we chatted with returning guest Don Smith from Illumia about his work with institutions as they modernize their campus payment systems. He shares his experiences with the movement toward digital wallets and how this cultural shift for institutions is well worth the effort. Guest Name: Don Smith -  Senior Vice President, General Manager of Integrated Payments at Illumia Guest Social: LinkedIn Guest Bio: Don Smith, is Senior Vice President, General Manager of Integrated Payments for Illumia. With over 15 years of experience driving innovation in software and financial services, Don is a seasoned product leader specializing in building high-performing teams. Skilled in talent development and cross-functional collaboration, Don creates cultures of excellence in both startups and established corporations across diverse industries, including education, financial services, nonprofits, and commercial real estate. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About 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!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this special bonus episode recorded at the recent Illumia Momentum conference, we talked with Laura Newell-McLaughlin from Illumia about the increased utilization of tuition payment alternatives like sponsor payments and payment plans; how we got here and what institutions need to do to continue to adapt in order to provide high quality experiences for their students. Guest Name: Laura Newell-McLaughlin - Chief Commercial Officer at Illumia Guest Social: LinkedIn Guest Bio: Laura Newell-McLaughlin is an influential leader in the higher education sector, currently serving as the Chief Commercial Officer at Illumia, a leader in innovative credential and payment solutions for connected campuses. With a career spanning 30 years, Newell-McLaughlin has built a reputation for her expertise in payments strategy and performance, particularly within the higher education domain. Laura Newell-McLaughlin's comprehensive experience and deep understanding of payment solutions in the education sector position her as a dynamic leader and key contributor to Illumia's ongoing success and innovation in providing solutions for campuses. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About 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!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this special bonus episode recorded at the recent Illumia Momentum conference, we spoke with Chris Setcos from Illumia to get his perspective on how institutions are grappling with increasingly complex digital infrastructure and tech stacks as well as strategies for successfully integrating these ecosystems. Guest Name: Chris Setcos - SVP of Partnerships at Illumia Guest Social: LinkedIn  Guest Bio: Chris Setcos is Senior Vice President of Partnerships and Mergers & Acquisitions at Illumia, responsible for strategic alliances, ecosystem development, and partnership models that drive long-term enterprise value. With deep expertise across technology, software, payments, and fintech, Chris builds collaborative teams and trusted partner relationships that align external capabilities with enterprise strategy to unlock innovation and scale. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About 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!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

For this week's episode, Dustin and Dr. Aviva Legatt from EdGenerative discuss how higher education must urgently and intentionally integrate AI into learning and strategy. Aviva highlights the risks of unstructured AI use, the need to balance AI skills with critical thinking and domain expertise, and the growing pressure on institutions to align with workforce demands. Ultimately, it's a call for leaders to take proactive steps—rather than avoid or ban AI—to better prepare students for an AI-driven future. Check out Aviva's awesome resource for AI Use Cases in Higher Education! Guest Name: Dr. Aviva Legatt - Founder & Principal at EdGenerative Guest Social: LinkedIn Guest Bio: Dr. Aviva Legatt is a nationally recognized education expert who bridges the gap between cutting-edge AI research and practical implementation in educational settings. With deep expertise in organizational dynamics and educational technology, she helps institutions navigate the complex landscape of AI adoption while maintaining their core educational mission and values. Her approach combines rigorous academic research with hands-on consulting experience, enabling educational leaders to make informed decisions about AI integration that serve their students and communities. Through her work with EdGenerative, she empowers institutions to move beyond AI anxiety toward confident, ethical implementation that amplifies human potential rather than replacing it. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About 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!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this special bonus episode recorded at the recent Illumia Momentum conference, we sat down with Zach Tussing from Ellucian about his perspective on the importance of effective ERP integrations and how institutional IT leaders are navigating many different stages of modernization and digital transformation. Guest Name: Zach Tussing, Lead of Technology Partnerships, Ellucian Guest Social: LinkedIn Guest Bio: Zach Tussing is the Lead of Technology Partnerships at Ellucian, where he drives strategic alliances that expand the company's ecosystem and accelerate innovation across higher education. With a focus on identifying and scaling high-impact partnerships, Zach works at the intersection of product, strategy, and go-to-market to deliver integrated solutions that enhance institutional outcomes. He brings a blend of technical expertise and business acumen, enabling him to translate emerging technologies into meaningful value for customers and partners alike. Passionate about collaboration and growth, Zach is committed to building durable partnerships that support Ellucian's mission to power education and drive student success. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About 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!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this final episode recorded at SXSW EDU, Dustin chats with George Phillip (“GP”) LeBourdais, a fellow FOHE member and Head of Learning at Edvisor.AI. He details the work his team does enabling faculty members to be more effective and efficient with their efforts. GP also shares his perspective on how AI can have positive impacts on achieving greater equity in the classroom. Guest Name: Dr. George Philip LeBourdais, Head of Learning, Edvisor.AI Guest Social: LinkedIn Guest Bio: Dr. George Phillip (“GP”) LeBourdais is a trained art historian who believes the best learning happens when humanistic inquiry meets technological innovation. His PhD from Stanford taught him to look carefully, to analyze how people see and make meaning. That slow, interpretive work is key to designing how students interact with AI. Currently, GP serves as Head of Learning (Special Advisor) at Edvisor.ai, leading academic strategy for an AI-powered platform transforming how college students engage with course content. GP embeds evidence-based pedagogy into product development and design multi-institutional efficacy studies. His team's early data shows the largest gains for at-risk students, - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About 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!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this special episode recorded live on site at SXSW EDU, Dustin speaks with Ana Homayoun, executive functioning expert, author, and founder of Green Ivy Educational Consulting and Luminaria Learning. They catch up on things since her interview last year and explore the power of career exploration for young people to help them find postsecondary success. She also teases her forthcoming book, Getting In Is Not Enough: The New Blueprint for Success Beyond Grades, Test Scores and College Admission. Guest Name: Ana Homayoun, Author, Nonprofit Executive, & Independent Academic Advisor Guest Social: LinkedIn Guest Bio: Ana Homayoun is a noted author, academic advisor, and early career development strategist. Her work focuses on helping students develop executive functioning skills in today's technology and social media world. Her latest book, Erasing the Finish Line: The New Blueprint for Success Beyond Grades and College Admissions, underscores the fundamental skills needed for academic success, emotional well-being and long-term workforce development. Ana is the founder of Green Ivy Educational Consulting, a Silicon Valley-based academic advising firm that helps students, parents and educators with crucial executive function and life-management skills. She is also the founder and executive director of Luminaria Learning Solutions, a non-profit initiative developing the Life Navigator School Advisory Program, an executive function skills curriculum rooted in social and emotional well-being that aims to prepare students for success in and outside of the classroom. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About 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!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this special episode recorded live on site at SXSW EDU, Dustin chats with Tanner Jackson from ETS. He explains the ways his team integrates AI and why transparency is increasingly important for edtech companies to foster. Tanner also highlights the recently launched Center for Responsible AI that ETS created as a new resource for higher ed leaders. Guest Name: Dr. Tanner Jackson, Head of AI Products, ETS Guest Social: LinkedIn Guest Bio: Tanner Jackson is the Head of AI Products at ETS, overseeing the development and deployment of AI capabilities across the global enterprise. His work spans two core areas: integrating AI into product and platform development, and building scalable AI solutions that deliver measurable business and/or educational impact.  With over a decade of experience at ETS-including roles in the Research Institute, Language Learning and Assessment Business, and the Office of the CEO-Tanner's work has consistently focused on helping people achieve their potential. A respected voice on AI, Tanner is a sought-after speaker at top industry forums, including the SHRM Talent Annual Conference, Zoom Educator Summit, and ASU+GSV and has been featured in The Chronicle of Higher Education and Education Week as a subject matter expert. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About 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!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this special episode recorded live on site at SXSW EDU, Dustin chats with Greg Smith from Britebound about their recent rebrand and their expanding work helping young learners explore potential careers and the ways to navigate the postsecondary landscape. He highlights how his team's work impacts higher ed during a time of increased scrutiny about value and relevance. Guest Name: Greg Smith, Vice President of Marketing, Britebound Guest Social: LinkedIn Guest Bio: As Vice President of Marketing at Britebound, Greg Smith is responsible for translating annual business objectives into strategic marketing plans and leading the marketing team to concept, create and execute the digital campaigns that impact millions of students each year. Greg brings over 25 years of corporate strategy, brand development and global marketing experience with a career that has spanned the technology, banking and financial services industries. In prior agency and client roles, Greg partnered with executives at companies such as American Express, EMC and Citizens Commercial Bank to envision how their marketing organizations must evolve to embrace the digital world and to transform their go-to-market strategies as the power shifted from companies to consumers. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About 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!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode recorded live on site at SXSW EDU, Dustin spoke with Ashley Beckner from Lemnis about their unique funding model that sits at the intersection of a variety of diverse stakeholders focused on enabling student success. She also provides context on their recent acquisition of InsideTrack and the vision Lemnis has for the future. Guest Name: Ashley Beckner, Managing Director, Lemnis Collective Guest Social: LinkedIn Guest Bio: Ashley Beckner is managing director of the Lemnis Collective. She brings experience across impact investing, philanthropy, finance and operations to Lemnis. She has spent over a decade as an investor and operator in the education sector.  Most recently, Ashley co-led the US education investment team at Imaginable Futures, a venture of The Omidyar Group. She led the team's strategy for driving systemic impact in early childhood leveraging investments in early-stage companies, grants, policy and advocacy, strategic communications, and more. She managed a portfolio of 30+ investments, serving as a strategic advisor to her companies and organizations. Ashley has an MBA from The Wharton School at The University of Pennsylvania and is based in Austin, TX. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About 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!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this special episode recorded live on site at SXSW EDU, Dustin chats with Angelique Albert, CEO of the Native Forward Scholars Fund. She returns to the show after a handful of years to provide updates on her team's work, the holistic support they provide native students, and how they're navigating this turbulent moment in higher ed. Guest Name: Angelique Albert - CEO at Native Forward Scholars Fund Guest Social: LinkedIn Guest Bio: Angelique Albert is the CEO of Native Forward Scholars Fund, the largest provider of direct scholarships to Native students in the United States. She is a mission-driven leader with expertise in public service, philanthropy, social justice and ensuring that Native students have the resources and support to fulfill their academic and professional aspirations. Raised on the Flathead Indian Reservation, Angelique is a proud member of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes. Since assuming leadership in 2017, Angelique has transformed Native Forward into a national force, surpassing $350 million in total scholarships to over 20,000 students from 500 Tribes in all 50 states. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About 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!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this special episode recorded live on site at SXSW EDU, Dustin chats with Enyi Okebugwu from Imaginable Futures about his work creating effective support structures for student parents. He explains how states are leaning in here and why this work is becoming increasingly important for institutions to focus on. Guest Name: Enyi Okebugwu - Senior Program Manager at Imaginable Futures Guest Social: LinkedIn Guest Bio: Enyi Okebugwu is the senior program manager at Imaginable Futures. His work focuses on supporting field building and systems change for student parents in the US through nonprofit investments and partnerships. In addition, he supports the development and implementation of IF's learning and impact practices. Prior to joining Imaginable Futures, he worked on the investment team at Village Capital, and spent time as an Impact Fellow with New Globe, where he drove the development process for New Globe's first cohort of primary schools in Nigeria. Enyi began his career by founding a social enterprise, Legendary Tutors, focused on providing high-quality test prep and college admissions consulting to underserved high school students in the south side of Chicago. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About 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!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this bonus episode recorded live at SXSW EDU, Dustin talked with Caroline Casagrande from VectorEDU about the impacts of an active year of federal policymaking. She also details how new public funding opportunities are poised to shape the future of higher education. Guest Name: Caroline Casagrande - CEO at VectorEDU Guest Social: LinkedIn Guest Bio: Caroline Casagrande is the founder of VectorEDU where she guides companies through the intersection of education technology, workforce innovation, AI, and public funding. Her work focuses on go-to-market strategy, Workforce Pell and WIOA alignment, regulatory navigation, and mapping public funding pathways to accelerate adoption in K–12, higher education, and workforce systems. Caroline helps companies understand how public dollars flow, who controls access, and what it takes to win government markets. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About 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!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this special episode recorded live on site at SXSW EDU, Dustin sits down with Shaun Carver, Executive Director of the International House at UC Berkeley as well as President of the International House Association. He shares his experience creating opportunities for his students from all over the world to connect with one another and why it is more important now than ever. He also explains how recent federal government actions on visas have created uniquely difficult situations for his students. Guest Name: Dr. Shaun Carver - Executive Director & CEO of the International House at UC Berkeley Guest Social: LinkedIn Guest Bio: Shaun Carver is a global education leader and nonprofit executive with over 20 years of experience advancing institutions at the intersection of international engagement, academic innovation, and mission-driven impact. He has proven success leading complex organizations, stewarding institutional transformations, and expanding global networks. Shaun is currently serving as Executive Director and CEO of the International House at UC Berkeley, and President of the revitalized International House Association—a global movement originally supported by the Rockefeller family. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About 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!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What does “free tuition” actually mean — and why isn't it enough? In this episode, Dustin sits down with Van Ton-Quinlivan, CEO of Futuro Health and host of the WorkforceRx podcast, to unpack how her organization is tackling the healthcare workforce shortage by helping adults earn debt-free credentials in allied health fields. From redesigning incentives around completion (not just enrollment) to supporting adult learners with real-life constraints, this conversation challenges traditional higher ed funding models and offers a bold blueprint for workforce-aligned education. The takeaway? Free tuition alone doesn't drive success. Smart design, accountability, and intentional support do. Guest Name: Van Ton-Quinlivan - CEO at Futuro Health Guest Social: LinkedIn Guest Bio: Van Ton-Quinlivan is a nationally recognized workforce development leader with a career spanning the private, public, and nonprofit sectors. As CEO of Futuro Health, she's building the nation's largest network of allied healthcare workers. In 2022, she was appointed by Governor Newsom to help shape California's healthcare workforce education and training. Van is the author and podcast host of WorkforceRx, promoting agile, multicultural solutions for employers, educators, and workers.  Featured in major media and a sought-after keynote speaker, she's been named one of the Top 50 Women Leaders in Healthcare (2024) and among the 100 Most Influential Higher Education Leaders (2025). She serves on several national boards and holds an MBA and MA in Education Policy from Stanford University. Born in Vietnam and raised in Hawaii, Van now lives in California. A new empty nester, she enjoys morning coffee walks with her husband, and recently took up taiko drumming. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About 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!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this podcast swap episode, Dustin sits down with Ashish Fernando, Founder and CEO at EDMO as well as the host of the EDU Unlocked podcast, to unpack how AI is reshaping admissions and enrollment. From fixing broken transfer credit processes to building AI systems that prioritize both speed and student experience, Ashish shares what he's learned from years of conversations with presidents and CIOs. The big idea? AI shouldn't replace humans in higher ed — it should remove friction so institutions can deliver a better, more affordable experience for students. Guest Name: Ashish Fernando - Founder & CEO at EDMO Guest Social: LinkedIn Guest Bio: Ashish Fernando is the Founder and CEO of EDMO and iSchoolConnect, companies dedicated to revolutionising student admissions through artificial intelligence (AI)-driven solutions. Mr Ashish obtained a Master's degree in business administration at Bentley University in Massachusetts, USA, having achieved a first Master's, in biotechnology, at Sathyabama University in India. At EDMO, his mission is to empower enrolment and admissions teams to make a profound impact with more students, guide students to align their educational choices with career aspirations and bridge the gap between education and the workforce for real-world success. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About 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!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this forward-looking conversation, Dustin sits down with Andy Morgan, Chief Partnerships Officer at 2U, to unpack what digital education looks like in 2026—and where it's heading next. From the maturation of online learning to mounting regulatory pressure and the rapid acceleration of AI, Andy outlines the three major forces reshaping higher ed strategy today.The big takeaway? Moving a program online isn't innovation anymore. Institutions that thrive will build integrated, learner-first strategies that blend modality, rethink marketing, and use AI to enhance—not replace—human connection.Guest Name: Andy Morgan, Chief Partnerships Officer, 2UGuest Social: LinkedInGuest Bio: Andy Morgan is 2U's Chief Partnerships Officer overseeing all aspects of 2U's partner relationships, including strategy, growth, and performance, as well as 2U's enterprise business. A long-time leader at 2U, Morgan has held a variety of strategic roles critical to the company's growth and expansion, including Head of Corporate Development and, most recently, Interim Head of the Alternative Credential Segment. With over 15 years of experience in edtech, Morgan brings a wealth of industry knowledge that has been instrumental in molding 2U into one of the world's leading edtech companies.Prior to joining 2U in 2018, Morgan spent seven years at Pearson managing merger and acquisitions and global business transformation across Pearson's media and education businesses. Earlier in his career, Morgan worked in the London office of Ernst & Young in several transaction advisory and consulting roles serving private equity clients.Morgan lives in Bethesda, Maryland, with his wife and two children. He holds a BSc in Economics from the University of Warwick. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About 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!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, Dustin chats with Michelle Craig, Director of Marketing at AppsAnywhere, about how institutions can better support today's digitally fluent, mobile-first students. They explore the critical need for flexibility in how students access learning tools and why digital equity isn't just a nice-to-have — it's a must. From device agnosticism to smarter infrastructure investments, this conversation gives IT leaders and enrollment pros alike actionable ways to align tech strategy with student realities.Guest Name: Michelle Craig - Director of Marketing at AppsAnywhereGuest Social: LinkedInGuest Bio: Michelle Craig is the Senior Director of Marketing and Commercial Operations at AppsAnywhere. With a focus on innovative go-to-market strategies and cross-functional leadership, she brings a results-oriented approach to connecting AppsAnywhere's solutions which help universities simplify software access for over three million students across 300 institutions worldwide. She brings two decades of EdTech experience from senior roles at Blackboard, QS Unisolution, JobTeaser, and Solutionpath. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About 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!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What if the path to transforming higher ed isn't about radical reinvention—but about finally using the tools we already have? In this episode, Dustin chats with Kelly Rogan, COO of Ellucian, about how AI and data can revolutionize student experiences, institutional operations, and leadership decisions—if we're brave enough to modernize. Drawing from her background at Microsoft and her deep dive into higher ed, Kelly unpacks how institutions can move from resistance to action, without losing the human touch.Guest Name: Kelly Rogan - Chief Operating Officer at EllucianGuest Social: LinkedInGuest Bio: As Chief Operating Officer, Kelly Rogan drives acceleration and enhancement of Ellucian's SaaS delivery strategies and customer experience, leading the Global Professional Services, Managed Services, Services Strategy and Innovation, and Customer Success and Support organizations. Kelly has more than 20 years of impressive experience in driving cloud transformation in the technology industry, a deep understanding of transformational change, and a proven ability to scale organizations effectively. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About 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!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this thought-provoking episode, political philosopher and Penn GSE professor Dr. Sigal Ben-Porath joins host Dustin to unpack one of higher ed's most pressing—and polarizing—topics: the future of free speech and academic freedom on campus. Drawing from her books Free Speech on Campus and Cancel Wars, Dr. Ben-Porath makes the case for a more inclusive vision of free expression in higher education, while warning against rising government overreach in curricula. She also highlights the important work happening on this topic at the SNF Paideia Program, where she is Faculty Director.Together, they explore how colleges can stay true to their democratic mission even as they navigate growing political pressure and cultural division.Guest Name: Dr. Sigal Ben-Porath - Professor & Faculty Director at University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of EducationGuest Social: LinkedInGuest Bio: Dr. Ben-Porath has been teaching at Penn GSE since 2004. She is an associate member of the political science department and the philosophy department at Penn. She also currently serves as the faculty director of the Stavros Niarchos Foundation (SNF) Paideia Program. She served as a special assistant to the university president, and as chair of the faculty advisory board to Penn Press, and as executive committee member of the Andrea Mitchell Center for the Study of Democracy. In 2010 she was a fellow at the Institute for Advanced Studies at Princeton, in 2012–2013 she was affiliated with the Safra Center for Ethics at Tel Aviv University, and in 2020–2021 she was a fellow in residence at the Edmond J. Safra Center for Ethics at Harvard. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About 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!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this week's episode, Dustin sits down with Brian Hartnack, Founder and CEO of Archer Education, for a rich conversation about the evolution of digital marketing and enrollment management in higher ed. Brian shares the origin story behind Archer, his thoughts on the shifting landscape of online education, and what institutions should really be doing right now to stay competitive in an AI-powered world. This isn't just a history lesson—it's a roadmap for modern marketing leaders in higher education.Guest Name: Brian Hartnack, Founder & CEO, Archer EducationGuest Social: LinkedInGuest Bio: Brian Hartnack is the CEO and co-founder of Archer Education, a leader in higher education marketing and enrollment growth. With more than 20 years of experience in online education, Brian has spent his career helping institutions navigate the evolving demands of online and adult education. He is passionate about developing practical, innovative solutions that expand access, improve enrollment outcomes, and support long-term institutional capacity. Brian believes that thoughtfully designed online learning plays a critical role in making higher education more accessible, affordable, and engaging for today's learners. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About 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!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Most students aren't dropping out because they're disengaged—they're falling behind because your tech isn't meeting their needs. In this energizing episode, Dustin chats with Shana Holman, Head of Strategic Engagement and Alliances at Pathify, about the results of Pathify's 2025 Student Digital Experience Survey. They unpack why digital friction is far more than an IT problem—it's a barrier to academic success, mental health, and student belonging.From the mounting demand for unified platforms to the hidden equity issues plaguing your tech stack, this episode makes a compelling case for why the student experience must be reimagined—and what institutions can do today to make real progress.Guest Name: Shana Holman, Head of Strategic Engagements & Alliances, PathifyGuest Social: LinkedInGuest Bio: As Pathify's Head of Strategic Engagement and Alliances, Shana Holman partners with university leadership teams and Pathify's customer advisory board to navigate the complex challenges facing higher education today.With extensive experience in both higher education and EdTech partnerships, she brings practical insights on how universities can leverage integrated technology solutions to create more connected campus experiences while maximizing their existing technology investments.Shana lives in Denver, Colorado and enjoys the Colorado mountains with her family and 2 yellow labradors. She is also a parent to two students navigating higher education. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About 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!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What do Montenegro, Gen Z protests, and open educational resources have in common? According to Julia Sherwin, everything. In this episode, Dustin Ramsdell sits down with Julia—Executive Director of the Global Education Initiative at Global Post Media—to explore why global literacy isn't just a “nice to have” anymore. They unpack how free access to high-quality international journalism can transform classrooms, inspire student activism, and better prepare learners for a truly interconnected world.This conversation is a must-listen for faculty who want to level up their teaching, institutions looking to champion open resources, and anyone passionate about empowering the next generation of globally competent citizens.Guest Name: Julia Sherwin, Executive Director of the Global Education Initiative, GlobalPost MediaGuest Social: LinkedInGuest Bio: Julia Sherwin is a communications professional and storyteller at heart, with experience across journalism, public relations and higher education. She is a former Philadelphia-area radio host, where she developed two highly engaging interview-style shows that each ran for five years. Julia was also an adjunct instructor in Temple University's Department of Journalism. Today, she is a PR consultant and the executive director of GlobalPost's Global Education Initiative. She loves connecting with like-minded professionals, students and educators, so please feel free to connect with her on LinkedIn. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About 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!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this premiere episode of the 2026 season, Dustin welcomes back Taran Lent, now CTO of the soon to be rebranded Illumia (formerly Transact + CBORD), for a candid conversation about the challenges and opportunities of digital transformation in higher ed. They dig into the rationale behind the rebrand, the creation of the Higher Ed Innovation Index report, and how institutions can sustainably modernize their operations while staying student-centric.From embracing AI to fostering digital upskilling, Taran offers grounded advice from the frontlines of transformation—advice shaped by both internal change and direct collaboration with campuses nationwide.Listen to Taran's previous episode on the podcast here!Guest Name: Taran Lent - CTO at Transact + CBORDGuest Social: LinkedInGuest Bio: Taran Lent has been building and operating payment technology companies his entire professional career. He is an accomplished entrepreneurial leader with experience in start-up, growth and public organizations. His specialty is forming and motivating high-performance teams to focus and execute on major new product ideas. Taran currently serves as CTO at Transact + CBORD. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About 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!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.