Podcasts about element451

Engage Summit 2026 is almost here, and the excitement is building. In this special episode of Pulse Check, Engage emcees Brendan Henkel, AVP of Solutions Engineering at Element451, and Cecily Street, VP of People at Element451, sit down to preview what's in store for this year's conference in Charlotte. From reflecting on the remarkable growth of Engage—from a small gathering in a Raleigh hotel conference room to a major industry event at the Charlotte Convention Center—to sharing what they're most excited about this year, Brendan and Cecily offer a behind-the-scenes look at the community, innovation, and energy that make Engage such a unique experience. The conversation highlights major announcements attendees can expect to hear more about, including Element451's expanding Bolt AI capabilities, the newly announced Encoura partnership, and a few surprises still waiting to be revealed on stage. They also discuss the importance of community, networking, and the connections that continue long after the conference ends. Whether you're attending in person, joining through Engage Digital Summit, or simply curious about what's ahead for higher education and AI, this episode offers a preview of the conversations, innovations, and experiences shaping Engage 2026. Register for Free Engage Digital Summit - - - -Connect With Our Host:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Pulse 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.

JC is joined by Element451 Chief Revenue Officer Trey Boyer and VP of Customer Strategy & Technology Kelly Sinacola to discuss the complexities of buying AI in higher education. They examine why many campuses struggle to realize ROI on AI investments, highlight the pitfalls of shiny demos and vaporware, and emphasize frameworks for selecting the right problems to solve. The conversation covers data readiness, the importance of organizational culture, and how successful AI adoption depends on people and process—not just technology. Practical advice is shared for institutional leaders preparing to make significant AI purchases. - - - -Connect With Our Co-Host:Dr. JC Bonillahttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jcbonilla/About The Enrollify Podcast Network:Generation AI 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. 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.

JC is joined by Element451's CEO James Novak to explore the shifting landscape of AI and EdTech leadership in higher education. James reflects on his first 100 days, transformational AI strategies, and the emergence of agentic workflows. The conversation unpacks recent industry research, best practices for deploying AI at scale, and actionable advice for higher ed leaders looking to drive impact and student success through AI-enabled labor and process redesign. - - - -Connect With Our Co-Host:Dr. JC Bonillahttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jcbonilla/About The Enrollify Podcast Network:Generation AI 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. 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 of Higher Intelligence, JC is joined by Andrea Gilbert from Everspring to examine why most AI pilots in higher education fail to scale, emphasizing the crucial role of leadership and change management over technology itself. They explore actionable frameworks for moving from pilot to implementation, the importance of measurable outcomes, and how institutions can redesign workflows for sustainable AI adoption, with insights drawn from leading industry research and real-world campus experiences. - - - -Connect With Our Co-Host:Dr. JC Bonillahttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jcbonilla/About The Enrollify Podcast Network:Generation AI 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. 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.

JC is joined by Rishab Malhotra, the founder of AIDO, to examine the current crisis in US international student enrollment, the evolving role of AI in global recruitment, and the impact of new federal regulations on AI models. JC and Rishab discuss data-driven strategies for enrollment, AI-powered personalization, and operational improvements, highlighting both the challenges and opportunities facing institutions aiming to attract and support international students in an increasingly competitive and regulated landscape. - - - -Connect With Our Co-Host:Dr. JC Bonillahttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jcbonilla/About The Enrollify Podcast Network:Generation AI 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. 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.

JC is joined by Christopher Porter from Drake University to examine how AI is reshaping entry-level tech jobs, curriculum design, and workforce readiness in higher education. They explore the rapid decline of traditional roles, the increasing demand for AI fluency, and how programs like Drake University's AI major are bridging skills gaps. The conversation highlights integrating ethics, interdisciplinary learning, and adapting to evolving AI tools to prepare students for the future. - - - -Connect With Our Co-Host:Dr. JC Bonillahttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jcbonilla/About The Enrollify Podcast Network:Generation AI 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. 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.

JC  unpacks the latest breakthroughs in visual AI from OpenAI and Google's shift to machine-generated code, exploring what these changes mean for campus workflows and future graduate skills. The episode highlights a practical framework for institutions to move from pilot projects to real AI value, offering actionable insights for higher education leaders navigating rapid technological change. - - - -Connect With Our Co-Host:Dr. JC Bonillahttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jcbonilla/About The Enrollify Podcast Network:Generation AI 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. 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.

Dr. JC Bonilla goes solo, exploring the latest AI breakthroughs, including Anthropic's massive yet withheld Cloud Mythos model, the new agent-driven Claude Opus 4.7, and Meta's pivot to frontier AI with MuseSpark. He also shares insights from several major higher ed conferences, highlighting the shift from AI “talkers” to agentic “doers,” the vital role of skill portability, and how institutions must act swiftly to bridge the gap between technological capability and real-world educational outcomes. - - - -Connect With Our Co-Host:Dr. JC Bonillahttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jcbonilla/About The Enrollify Podcast Network:Generation AI 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. 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.

JC is joined by Element451's Head of AI Operations, Doug Smith, once again to break down Anthropic's rapid evolution of Claude into a true AI operating system. We explore how new releases are redefining productivity for users and higher education leaders. The conversation contrasts Anthropic's strategy with OpenAI's decision to sunset Sora, highlighting shifting priorities in the AI platform race. Listeners gain practical insights into automating workflows, addressing security, and navigating campus tech stack decisions in a landscape that's building the interface layer between humans and their technology environment. - - - -Connect With Our Co-Host:Dr. JC Bonillahttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jcbonilla/About The Enrollify Podcast Network:Generation AI 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. 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 Pulse Check, we revisit Brendan Henkel's lightning session at the February Engage AI Summit, focused on using AI for application fraud detection. Brendan, AVP of Solutions Engineering at Element451, gives a crash course in how AI tools can flag potential fraudulent applications and have colleges and universities avoid losing millions. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Pulse 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.

JC is joined by Kelly Sinacola, Vice President of Solutions Engineering and Integrations for Element451, to explore the challenges and realities of implementing AI agents on campus. They discuss the critical context gap in higher education, data silos, and the obstacles posed by legacy systems. Insights include strategies for building unified data layers, fostering collaboration between vendors and institutions, and practical advice on AI readiness. The conversation emphasizes starting with focused use cases and highlights the need for cultural and organizational change to realize AI's full potential in higher ed. - - - -Connect With Our Co-Host:Dr. JC Bonillahttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jcbonilla/About The Enrollify Podcast Network:Generation AI 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. 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.

JC is joined by former Generation AI co-host Ardis Kadiu to explore four pivotal stories shaping AI and higher education. JC and Ardis discuss Apple's AI-powered devices, SpaceX's universal cellular connectivity, Anthropic's transformative AI code review tools, and Andrew Karpathy's auto-research agent for experiment automation. The hosts break down how these advancements are redefining workflows, access, and innovation, offering practical insights for campus leaders navigating AI-driven change. - - - -Connect With Our Co-Host:Dr. JC Bonillahttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jcbonilla/About The Enrollify Podcast Network:Generation AI 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. 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.

JC is joined by Mike McGetrick to examine how AI is transforming the creative process in higher education marketing. They discuss the evolution of creative roles, the impact of AI-powered tools like Adobe Firefly, and the balance between efficiency and authentic brand storytelling. JC and Mike also explore AI's role in democratizing content creation, maintaining authenticity, and reshaping creative education. Listeners gain insights on implementing AI-driven creative strategies while preserving the core values and differentiation unique to each institution. - - - -Connect With Our Co-Host:Dr. JC Bonillahttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jcbonilla/About The Enrollify Podcast Network:Generation AI 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. 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 of Higher Intelligence, we explore the growing debate over AI control—open-source innovation versus government regulation. JC is joined by Doug Smith and James Gress to unpack the explosive rise (and security risks) of OpenClaw, the first mass-market autonomous AI agent. They also analyze a high-stakes standoff between Anthropic and the U.S. government over AI ethics and military use. The conversation highlights operational realities, urgent governance questions, and the future of AI policy for higher education leaders navigating rapid technological change. - - - -Connect With Our Co-Host:Dr. JC Bonillahttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jcbonilla/About The Enrollify Podcast Network:Generation AI 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. 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 Higher Intelligence Debrief, JC explores the rising importance of AI skills over AI models, breaking down the shift toward skills as key drivers of reliable, measurable AI outcomes, especially in higher education. JC explains what defines an AI skill, shares practical examples, and highlights how skills enable scalable, trustworthy automation for tasks like admissions, student success, and campus operations. The overall message — building and adopting AI skills is crucial for delivering real value in educational institutions. - - - -Connect With Our Co-Host:Dr. JC Bonillahttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jcbonilla/About The Enrollify Podcast Network:Generation AI 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. 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 of Higher Intelligence, Dr. JC Bonilla and Paul Russo explore the groundbreaking "intelligence placement" thesis and the 2028 global intelligence crisis predicted by Trinity Research. They unpack the implications of AI-driven disruption in higher education, discuss the decline of the intelligence premium, and debate which human skills remain irreplaceable. The conversation covers real-world impacts on curriculum, entry-level jobs, and how institutions—and students—must adapt to an AI-powered future. - - - -Connect With Our Co-Host:Dr. JC Bonillahttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jcbonilla/About The Enrollify Podcast Network:Generation AI 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. 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 Debrief, JC provides an overview of the key differences between chatbots and agentic AI, emphasizing the importance of memory, goal orientation, and autonomy. He breaks down the four key pillars of agentic AI and introduces context engineering as essential for effective, relevant AI in higher education. Listeners learn how identity, behavior, history, and institutional context shape smarter, trustable AI, enabling personalized student support and reducing hallucinations. - - - -Connect With Our Co-Host:Dr. JC Bonillahttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jcbonilla/About The Enrollify Podcast Network:Generation AI 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. 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.

Stella Liu joins JC explore the complexities of AI trust and evaluation in higher education. They discuss AI's imperfect nature, the latest trends in open-source agents, and strategies for measuring and deploying AI responsibly. The conversation highlights practical approaches to scenario-based testing, differentiates between frontier models and endpoint solutions, and emphasizes balancing convenience, security, and academic integrity. Gain actionable insights for building rigorous evaluation frameworks and embracing AI as a “perfectly imperfect” tool for next-generation campuses. - - - -Connect With Our Co-Host:Dr. JC Bonillahttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jcbonilla/About The Enrollify Podcast Network:Generation AI 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. 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 of Higher Intelligence, Dr. JC Bonilla sits down with Claire Zau at the 2025 Agentic AI and the Student Experience conference to unpack the evolving landscape of agentic AI. They explore the shift from perception and generative AI to agentic AI that acts independently, discuss its transformative potential in higher education, and share insights on student experience, workflow automation, and ROI. Claire Zau offers candid thoughts on what's hype versus real, why action and velocity matter, and which innovations excite her most in the rapidly advancing AI ecosystem. - - - -Connect With Our Co-Host:Dr. JC Bonillahttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jcbonilla/About The Enrollify Podcast Network:Generation AI 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. 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.

Explore the rise of agentic AI in higher education with Brian Gann, Vice President for Enrollment & Student Services at Wake Technical Community College, and Justin May, Chief Officer of Enrollment Management at Richard Bland College, who discuss how colleges are integrating AI agents to support enrollment, advising, and student services. The conversation covers the latest AI advancements, practical deployment strategies, overcoming staff fears, and building scalable solutions. Listeners gain insights into real-world success stories, MVP approaches, and the evolving relationship between human staff and AI assistants on the modern campus. - - - -Connect With Our Co-Host:Dr. JC Bonillahttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jcbonilla/About The Enrollify Podcast Network:Generation AI 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. 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, we revisit JC's conversation with Kelly Sinacola this week at the AI Engage Summit, where they break down the architecture behind an agentic campus—and what it truly means to be “AI-ready.” Agentic AI can only perform as well as the data ecosystem that powers it. As campuses move toward AI-driven operations, the institutions that succeed will be those that unify data, eliminate silos, and create real-time context that AI agents can understand and act on. - - - -Connect With Our Co-Host:Dr. JC Bonillahttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jcbonilla/About The Enrollify Podcast Network:Generation AI 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. 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.

Mallory Willsea sits down with Ardis Kadiu, co-founder of AI Idea Lab and former CEO of Element451, to explore why 2026 is poised to be the breakout year for agentic AI in higher education. Unlike traditional AI tools that assist with tasks, agentic AI can now plan, execute, and deliver outcomes autonomously. They unpack how this shift will impact student communication, operational workflows, and the very structure of work across campuses. Tune in to hear real-world applications, insights into Ardis's new venture Andy.AI, and how enrollment leaders can start leveraging these tools today.Register for AI Engage Summit for FREE: https://element451.com/february-ai-engage-summit - - - -Connect With Our Host:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Pulse 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.

Jenny Li Fowler sits down with podcast strategist and former Enrollify team member Erin Fields to dive deep into how to successfully promote a podcast within the higher ed landscape. They unpack why podcasting isn't just a trendy add-on—it's a full-fledged marketing channel that demands strategy, consistency, and creativity. From turning podcast episodes into content engines to nailing promotion without a budget, this episode is packed with practical tips for higher ed marketers looking to elevate their podcasting game.Guest Name: Erin Fields, Marketing Director at OlogieGuest Social: LinkedInGuest Bio: Erin Fields is the Marketing Director at Ologie, the branding and marketing agency for organizations with missions that matter, where she helps lead the agency's content marketing and social media strategies. She started her career in graduate admissions at West Virginia University, before moving into edtech at Element451, where she helped manage content for more than 15 shows on the Enrollify Podcast Network. Erin is a proud graduate of Marshall University and West Virginia University. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jenny Li Fowlerhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jennylifowler/https://twitter.com/TheJennyLiAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:Confessions of a Higher Ed Social Media Manager 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.

JC Bonilla is joined by Ty Fujimura and Sydney Blozan of Element451 to unpack the recent leap in AI's capabilities — from being just a tool to becoming a trusted teammate. Together, they explore the Claude vs. ChatGPT debate, and the real-world implications of these tools on workflows, strategy, and higher ed operations. This fast-paced, insight-packed conversation gives higher ed leaders and enrollment marketers a glimpse into the AI-powered future that's already here. - - - -Connect With Our Co-Host:Dr. JC Bonillahttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jcbonilla/About The Enrollify Podcast Network:Generation AI 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. 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.

Welcome to the debut episode of Higher Intelligence, a podcast that delivers smart takes on AI and EdTech for the next-generation campus. As our first guest, host Dr. JC Bonilla is joined by Dr. Paul Russo, Vice Provost and Founding Dean of the Katz School of Science and Health at Yeshiva University. Together, they break down AI trends reshaping the future of higher education. From autonomous agents and ambient AI to data infrastructure and institutional readiness, this episode unpacks what's hype and what's real — and what campus leaders should be doing now to avoid getting left behind. - - - -Connect With Our Co-Host:Dr. JC Bonillahttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jcbonilla/About The Enrollify Podcast Network:Generation AI 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. 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.

The Higher Intelligence podcast delivers smart takes on AI and EdTech for the next-generation campus. Hosted by EdTech executive, data scientist, and professor Dr. JC Bonilla, the show breaks down the most important AI stories, explains how the technology works, and translates hype into real implications for higher education leaders. Join us twice weekly for clear thinking with no noise — just AI and EdTech, explained for higher education. - - - -Connect With Our Co-Host:Dr. JC Bonillahttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jcbonilla/About The Enrollify Podcast Network:Generation AI 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. 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 the final episode of Generation AI, hosts Ardis Kadiu and JC Bonilla close out their influential podcast series with a candid and reflective conversation on the past two years of demystifying artificial intelligence in higher education. This capstone episode unpacks their motivation for launching the show, what they learned along the way, and how AI adoption has evolved across higher ed institutions. With Ardis transitioning from Element451 into his next professional chapter, the episode serves as both a farewell and a look forward. - - - -Connect With Our Co-Hosts:Ardis Kadiuhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ardis/https://twitter.com/ardisDr. JC Bonillahttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jcbonilla/https://twitter.com/jbonillxAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:Generation AI 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 popping into your feed with a very special bonus episode to commemorate 300 weekly episodes of the podcast. Dustin shares some brief notes of gratitude and reflections on the journey, as well as thoughts on the future of the show. Thank you to all our listeners, guests, and of course many thanks to the wonderful teams at Enrollify and Element451 for their support of the show. - - - -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.

AI is the future… and for a lot of people, that can seem a little scary. But it doesn't have to be! In less than 30 days, community college trustees and administrators from around the country will be swarming the streets of New Orleans, Louisiana for the annual ACCT Leadership Congress. In this episode, one of our Congress sponsors, Element451, is giving our members a sneak preview of their conference session! They'll tell us how community colleges can streamline processes while taking a load off their academic advisors and student services workers through the use of innovative artificial intelligence software.   Learn more about Element451 by visiting their website: www.element451.com Register for the 2025 ACCT Leadership Congress: https://acct.org/events/acct-leadership-congress

Mallory Wilsey as she sits down with Fabrizio Vallejos for a special episode recorded live at the Prima Conference! Fabrizio shares his biggest takeaways from attending Prima, including the power of collaboration across higher ed institutions and the advantages of not reinventing the wheel. Hear his real-world story of how he quickly leveraged AI-powered tools inside Element451 to solve a critical compliance challenge—streamlining student form collection in record time. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Pulse 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 of the Founder Shares podcast, host Trevor Schmidt sits down with Ardis Kadiu, founder and CEO of Element451. Ardis shares his journey from an engineer to a successful entrepreneur, recounting how he spun off a software company from his marketing agency to solve a core problem in student recruitment. He candidly discusses the early days of grinding in a small Dumbo, Brooklyn office and the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, which ultimately became an "accelerant" for his company. Ardis also talks about the critical role of AI in their product, his experience navigating a multi-million dollar acquisition, and his decision to step away to pursue a new venture.

In Part 2 of this Pulse Check series, Dave Hunt sits down with Nick Gyani, Head of Higher Ed Sales at Canva, to explore how Canva is empowering campus marketers and creative teams through AI-driven tools and collaborative design workflows. Nick shares how Canva is not just simplifying visual communication but transforming the way higher ed institutions work—giving time back to creative pros and empowering non-designers to stay on brand. This is a must-listen for anyone curious about AI in higher education and what the future of design and content creation looks like on campus.Guest Name: Nick Gyani, Head of Higher Ed Sales, CanvaGuest Social: LinkedInGuest Bio: Nick Gyani currently leads Higher Ed sales for Canva.  Originally from New York City, he is currently based in Austin, Texas.  He has been with Canva for about 5 years and was one of the founding members of the Canva Enterprise team back in 2020.  His background is in a wide range of industries, but for the past 9 years, he has been focused on driving growth in high performing SAAS companies.  Nick is passionate about empowering educators and students through visual communication.  Outside of work, Nick enjoys spending time with his wife and 2 year old daughter, trying new restaurants in the Austin food scene, and playing golf. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Pulse 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 next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

In this final episode recorded live from Transact 360, Dustin chats with Derek Bierman, CIO at Doane University, for a candid, future-focused, and wide-ranging conversation about what it really takes to lead digital transformation on campus. From AI overload to cloud sticker shock to the very real challenge of prioritizing hundreds of tech contracts, Derek offers a rare look behind the scenes of modern campus IT leadership.This is the episode for anyone who's ever tried to balance innovation with budget constraints—or wondered how CIOs are juggling AI, cybersecurity, and the relentless pressure to do more with less.Guest Name: Derek Bierman, Chief Information Officer at Doane UniversityGuest Social: LinkedInGuest Bio: Derek Bierman is a strategic technology leader and Chief Information Officer at Doane University, where he drives digital transformation to enhance student success, service excellence, and institutional efficiency. With a passion for innovation in higher education, he has led key initiatives, including an award-winning service center, a multi-institutional shared services consortium, and a Salesforce-powered student success platform recognized as a model for higher education. Under his leadership, Doane has modernized operations through enterprise service management, cloud transformation, and cybersecurity advancements, ensuring a future-ready institution. A frequent speaker on innovation, analytics, and digital transformation, Derek is particularly curious about the evolving role of AI in higher education and its potential to revolutionize learning, operations, and student success. He remains dedicated to bridging technology and strategy to create lasting impact in the field. - - - -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 next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

Recorded live at the CASE Summit, host Carrie Phillips welcomes Becca Altimer to unpack powerful insights from the conference. Together, they explore the importance of collaboration across campus units, the emotional core of advancement work, and how institutions can cultivate courage and connection in uncertain times. Whether you're in enrollment, admissions, or advancement, this episode offers actionable takeaways and fresh perspectives to inspire your strategy. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Pulse 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 next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

In this special compilation episode of Mission Admissions, host Jeremy Tiers sifts through his Season 4 conversations to bring you some important leadership reminders, as well as a handful of customer service strategies that will help you deliver a more memorable college search experience for prospective students and families.Guest Names:Ken Anselment, Vice President for Enrollment Management, RHB Stephanie Dickerson, Associate Director of Admission, University of Louisville Pasquale Romano Jr., Hospitality Expert & Accounts Manager, UrVenue Dr. Matt McLendon, Associate Vice President and Executive Director of Enrollment Management at The University of Alabama  McKenzie Sullivan, Admissions Counselor, The University of Akron  Reece Baines, Junior, Wilson High School, PA Mickey Baines, Partner and Technology Services Practice Leader, Kennedy & Company Guest Social: Ken: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kenanselment/Stephanie: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-dickerson-m-a-a816779a/Pasquale: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pasquale-romano-jr/Matt: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-mclendon/McKenzie: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mckenzie-sullivan-m-ed-36051b144/Mickey: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mickeyb/Guest Bios: Ken Anselment is Vice President for Enrollment Management at RHB, a division of Strata Information Group. He joined RHB in May 2022 after serving as the Vice President for Enrollment at Lawrence University in Appleton, Wisconsin, where he worked for 18 years.Stephanie Dickerson is currently in her eighth recruitment cycle with UofL. She began her career there in 2017 as an Admissions Counselor and progressed into a Senior Admissions Counselor role, then the Coordinator of the Dual Credit Program & AP Summer Institute, and now her current role as Associate Director. A seasoned hospitality professional with over 15 years of experience in Las Vegas, working with renowned hotels and nightlife/daylife concepts, Pasquale Romano Jr. is now an advisor for UrVenue the leading hospitality technology solution working with well-known hospitality brands like Tao Group, Groot Hospitality, and Wynn Nightlife.Dr. Matthew B. McLendon leads the University of Alabama's enrollment efforts, providing strategic leadership for enrollment planning, implementation and assessment. He also has fiscal responsibility for all facets of enrollment management.McKenzie Sullivan currently serves as an admissions counselor at The University of Akron. In addition to her work at UA, she sits on the OACAC executive board as the Northeast Ohio Delegate and is a part of the NACAC NEXT leadership cohort for 2024-2025.Reece Baines is currently finishing up his junior year of high school in Pennsylvania. He's an avid drummer, also works part time for a local community organization, and he volunteers as an orientation counselor at his high school. As a consultant and former practitioner in higher education, Mickey Baines has over 25 years of experience building, implementing, and leading enrollment and student success systems and teams. In his current consulting role he leads the technology services practice for Kennedy & Company, helping colleges and universities with their design, implementation, and customization of CRM technologies.  - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jeremy Tiershttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremytiers/https://twitter.com/CoachTiersAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:Mission Admissions 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 next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com. Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025!

In this episode of Higher Ed Pulse, host Mallory Willsea sits down with Kyle James (again!) to tackle the deep divide between how startups and higher ed institutions adopt and implement AI. This conversation dives into why experimentation, failure, and iteration are the lifeblood of startup growth—and how higher ed can start borrowing from that playbook. From low-code/no-code AI tools to agile workflows and international student personalization, this episode is packed with actionable insights that challenge the higher ed status quo.Related Articles:AI Translation Platform Article: https://3sixtyinsights.com/from-afterthought-to-strategic-superpower-ais-expanding-role-in-translation-and-gtm/   Example - AI Agents to write Free Resources for Users: https://www.soundgtm.com/playbooks-and-agents  Kate Reed Interview - "No Code Builder": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y3iQjMiQILA&list=PLd1KZs09PNgQZLpSDwUwJIcdqtCT9g5r9  - - - -Connect With Our Host:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Pulse 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 next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

In this inspiring conversation, Dustin welcomes Dr. Siva Kumari, CEO of College Possible, to unpack how her team is rewriting the narrative for first-gen and low-income students. From helping students find their best-fit college to coaching them all the way to graduation (and beyond), College Possible proves that persistent, personalized support can change lives. Tune in to hear how they're blending human connection with AI innovation—and what higher ed leaders need to know to better serve today's learners.Guest Name: Dr. Siva Kumari, CEO, College PossibleGuest Social: LinkedInGuest Bio: Dr. Siva Kumari started as CEO of College Possible in May of 2023. College Possible is among the largest college access and success organizations in the U.S. It has grown from a single regional office in St. Paul, MN to eight regional sites nationwide, and a growing suite of programs designed to enable students from low-income families — and those who serve them — at every stage of the college journey.Prior to that, she has consulted with global educational projects that focus on equity and high academic standards. She also mentors C-level leaders worldwide. Siva has served and continues to serve on a wide range of local, national and international professional advisory boards and committees. - - - -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 next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

In this final episode recorded live from the Engage 2025 Summit, Dustin spoke with Tanya Weigold and Kathryn Harris from the South Carolina Commission on Higher Education. They shared how their small team is using Element451 and AI agents to scale support for thousands of South Carolina students. From transforming an admissions platform into a scholarship gateway to increasing FAFSA completion rates, their story is proof that curiosity, collaboration, and courage go a long way in driving digital transformation.Guest Names: Kathryn Harris, Program Manager, Scholarships and Grants at South Carolina Commission on Higher EducationTanya Weigold, Program Coordinator, Scholarships and Grants at South Carolina Commission on Higher EducationGuest Socials: KathrynTanya Guest Bios: Kathryn Harris is a seasoned program and operations manager with over 15 years of experience in higher education and state government. As Scholarship & Grants Program Manager at the South Carolina Commission on Higher Education, she oversees the administration of more than $160 million in state-funded aid, leads cross-agency initiatives, and supports legislative reporting and policy implementation. Katie is committed to streamlining processes, improving student access, and using data to drive meaningful change in education. She holds a Master's degree in Education and is currently pursuing the Certified Public Manager credential through the State of South Carolina.Tanya Weigold is a Program Coordinator at the South Carolina Commission on Higher Education (CHE), where she oversees several key state financial aid programs, including the Lottery Tuition Assistance Program, DAYCO Scholarship, Scholarship Enhancement Program, and the Scholarship Appeals process. With over seven years at CHE and a background in TRIO and campus life, Tanya brings a student-centered approach to her work. She also manages the knowledge base for the agency's CRM system, ensuring consistent, up-to-date information is shared across platforms. Tanya holds an MBA in Leadership from Adams State University and is passionate about using technology to modernize processes, improve communication, and increase retention among South Carolina's college 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 next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

In this bonus episode recorded live from the Engage 2025 Summit, Dustin chats with Dan Roberts, Special Projects Manager at San Diego Miramar College. Dan has one job: lead the implementation of Element451 across campus. With decades of experience in marketing and student engagement, Dan breaks down what it really takes to lead a CRM transformation: cross-campus buy-in, empathy for overworked staff, and relentless communication. This episode is a masterclass in change management, culture work, and why now is the moment for higher ed to rethink how it communicates with students.Guest Name: Dan Roberts, Special Projects Manager, San Diego Miramar CollegeGuest Social: LinkedInGuest Bio: Dan Roberts boasts over two decades of experience with a remarkable skill set that includes strong relationship-building, open communication, and impeccable time management. His past work experience across multiple industries highlights his dedication to consulting and business growth. Dan excels in streamlining sales processes, aligning organizational goals with daily operations, implementing business process outsourcing, project management, and crafting effective marketing strategies, including social media and content marketing.  - - - -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 next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

In this episode of Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO, host Jaime Hunt sits down with Mike Morris, Partner at the Ward Group, a leading executive search firm specializing in marketing and communications leadership roles. Together, they unpack how higher education marketers can position themselves for VP- and CMO-level roles—and how to build relationships with search firms that actually lead to job offers. This insightful conversation covers what presidents often misunderstand about the CMO role, how to craft a compelling resume, and why emotional intelligence may matter more than your title.Guest Name: Mike Morris, Director, The Ward GroupGuest Bio: Throughout Mike's time at The Ward Group—a retained executive search firm that specializes functionally in marketing and communications leadership roles—he has focused primarily in the firm's higher education portfolio. Working with presidents and search committees, from public research universities to liberal arts colleges and beyond, Mike brings a breadth of experience and insight to institutional partners across the country.Previously, Mike spent over a decade in higher education, namely college athletics recruiting. Working at schools such as Boston College, Harvard University, and Dartmouth College, he was heavily involved in the recruitment of prospective football student-athletes. In both college athletics and executive search, success is “all about the people.”Mike's additional experience at TWG includes recruiting marketing and communications leaders for clients nationwide in categories like healthcare, financial services, and health tech.  For him, the natural synergy created by understanding clients' values beyond the job description and getting to know candidates beyond the resume is the ultimate payoff. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jaime Hunthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jaimehunt/https://twitter.com/JaimeHuntIMCAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO 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 next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

Live from the Engage 2025 Summit, Dustin sits down with team members from DIS-Study Abroad to unpack how digital transformation is reshaping the student experience abroad. From streamlining pre-departure logistics to embracing CRMs and AI for internal efficiency, this conversation explores how DIS is thoughtfully building a more connected, student-first journey. Plus, the team opens up about their own AI learning curves and what inspires them most about working at the intersection of tech and travel.Guest Names: Asta Schantz-Conlon - Marketing & Campaign Manager at DIS-Study AbroadLena Friedman - Outreach and Communications Coordinator at DIS-Study AbroadLucy Li - Digital Portfolio Manager at DIS-Study AbroadGuest Socials: AstaLenaLucyGuest Bios: Asta Schantz-Conlon is the Marketing and Campaign Manager at DIS – Study Abroad, based in Copenhagen. She crafts multimedia campaigns and digital strategies that inspire students to study abroad in Scandinavia. Born and raised in Copenhagen, Asta brings a global perspective shaped by her experiences living, working, and studying abroad. She holds a degree in Multimedia Communications, Film, and Media from the University of Copenhagen.Lena works at DIS – Study Abroad as the Outreach and Communications Coordinator in the North American Office, based in Saint Paul, Minnesota. The North American Office partners with a network of 200+ universities and supports students preparing to study abroad. Lena develops pre-departure resources and assists with DIS's transition to new technology platforms, including Element451. She earned her B.A. in Psychology from Whitman College in 2021. - - - -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 next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

In this episode recorded live from Transact 360, Dustin sat down with Alison Cove, Founder and CEO at USEFULL, to discuss her company's mission to make reusable containers the default—not the exception—on college campuses. What starts as a conversation about ditching plastic turns into a deeper exploration of how tech-forward systems can drive student behavior change, reduce operational costs, and spark cross-campus collaboration.From stainless steel containers with library-style return systems to tackling the real cost of "compostable" packaging, Alison breaks down why convenience, accountability, and integration are the keys to making sustainability scalable.Guest Name: Alison Cove, Founder and CEO, USEFULLGuest Social: LinkedInGuest 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 on a mission. She created the USEFULL stainless steel reuse solution to solve a personal dilemma; like many others, she loves takeout food and drinks, but felt guilty about the trail of waste her habit was creating. In the research that led Alison to found USEFULL, one key takeaway emerged—you can't solve a plastic problem with more plastic. To galvanize reuse in the healthiest, most sustainable way possible, 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 next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

Live from the Engage 2025 Summit, Dustin sits down with Brian Piper—AI integration consultant, host of the AI for U podcast, and author of Epic Content Marketing for Higher Ed. Brian shares how his early embrace of AI tools shaped his thinking on content strategy and scalability in higher ed. From creating workflows with AI agents to reframing adoption as culture change, this episode explores how institutions can reimagine their future—and why starting today is the smartest strategy.Guest Name: Brian Piper, Author, Speaker, and ConsultantGuest 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 next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

In this episode of Mission Admissions, host Jeremy Tiers chats with Conner Ellinghuysen about how becoming more self-aware and prioritizing self-reflection have made him a better leader.Guest Name: Conner Ellinghuysen, Director of Admissions, Buena Vista UniversityGuest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connerellinghuysen/Guest Bio: Conner Ellinghuysen has been the Director of Admissions at Buena Vista University since 2019. Before landing in Storm Lake he started his admissions journey at his alma mater, Saint Mary's University of Minnesota. Conner brings a blend of strategy, heart, and humor to the world of college admissions. He's an active member of Iowa ACAC and as President-Elect, Conner is focused on building community, creating opportunities for growth, and yes, sprinkling in the occasional Star Wars reference or dad joke. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jeremy Tiershttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremytiers/https://twitter.com/CoachTiersAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:Mission Admissions 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 next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com. Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025!

Live from the Engage 2025 Summit, Dustin chats with Carrie Phillips, Chief Communications and Marketing Officer at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock and creator of Lessons in Leadership. Carrie unpacks her leadership philosophy, her personal and professional AI journey, and why curiosity and calendar discipline are her secret weapons. From building custom GPTs to managing data-driven strategy in higher ed, Carrie brings candor, creativity, and clarity to the conversation. - - - -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 next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

This week, Dustin is pleased to welcome back higher ed design strategist and author Elliot Felix to discuss his forthcoming book, The Connected College. Together, they unpack what it takes to build institutions that work better together—from breaking down silos to smarter strategy execution. Elliot brings the wisdom of over 100 campus collaborations, offering a hopeful and highly practical roadmap for change. If your institution is wrestling with disconnection, dwindling resources, or just too many redundant tools and services, this episode is for you.Guest Name: Elliot Felix, Partner, Buro HappoldGuest Social: LinkedInGuest Bio: Elliot Felix is a student success author, speaker, and consultant. He uses his background in design to create better connected colleges and universities by improving the spaces students learn and live in, the support services they rely on, and the technology they use. Over the last 20 years, he has spoken at events, taught courses on innovation, and worked with more than 100 universities including Carnegie Mellon, MIT, NYU, NC State, and the University of Virginia. brightspot, the higher education strategy consulting company he founded in 2011 was acquired by Buro Happold in 2020 where he now leads the higher education advisory practice.Elliot's book How to Get the Most Out of College was published in January 2022 and received a blue star from Kirkus Reviews, calling it “A knowledgeable, enthusiastic guide packed with strategies and encouragement.” His upcoming book The Connected College: Leadership Strategies for Student Success is arriving summer 2025.   - - - -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 next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

Live from the Engage 2025 Summit, Dustin sits down with Devin Purgason, Associate VP of Student Experience, Marketing, and Outreach at Forsyth Technical Community College. In this insightful and energizing conversation, Devin shares how Forsyth Tech became an early adopter of AI, how they're integrating it across departments, and why staying grounded in student needs is the key to meaningful tech adoption. From building AI literacy to faculty development and platform implementation, Devin gets real about what works—and what still needs work.Guest Name: Devin Purgason, Associate Vice President for Student Experience, Marketing & Outreach, Forsyth Technical Community CollegeGuest Social: LinkedInGuest Bio: As AVP of Student Experience, Marketing and Outreach at Forsyth Tech, Devin brings a rich blend of visual creativity, technological innovation, and a deep commitment to education. Devin's evolution as a media professional enriches his innovative student-focused strategies in higher education marketing. He has been honored with the AMA's Emerging Higher Ed Marketer of 2024 Award, Winston Salem's Under 40 Leadership Award, NC Triad Business Journal's 40 under 40 and multiple CASE awards. Devin is a graduate of Southeastern Seminary and holds a graduate certificate from Duke University. - - - -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 next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

In this episode of Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO, host Jaime Hunt sits down with higher ed storyteller and communications strategist Kristin Hanson to unpack the strategic value of proactive storytelling. Together, they explore how colleges and universities can move from passive, transactional content to authentic, intentional narratives that deepen emotional connection, support enrollment and advancement goals, and highlight the real people behind the institution. If you're looking to elevate your storytelling game in higher education marketing, this conversation is your roadmap.Guest Name: Kristin Hanson, freelance writerGuest Bio: Kristin Hanson is an award-winning writer, editor, and communications strategist with 15+ years' experience working with higher education institutions, independent schools, marketing firms, nonprofits, and businesses of all sizes. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jaime Hunthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jaimehunt/https://twitter.com/JaimeHuntIMCAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO 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 next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

In this episode recorded live from Transact 360, Dustin gets insights from Patrick Beirne who serves as Senior Director of Student Financial Services at Wayne State University. In this rare sit-down with a real-life bursar (finally!), Pat offers a front-line view of how digital transformation is changing the way institutions bill and collect payments—and why it matters more than ever.From phasing out cash to embracing Apple Pay, Pat shares practical insight into building a student-centric (and parent-friendly) payment experience. Plus, he breaks down how integrations, centralization, and modernization are more than IT buzzwords—they're make-or-break moves in the race to remain relevant and responsive in higher ed.Guest Name: Patrick Beirne, Senior Director, Bursar & Student Financial Services, Wayne State UniversityGuest Social: LinkedInGuest Bio: Patrick Beirne has worked in Student Financial Services for 16 years across three university campuses, the last six as the Senior Director; Bursar & Student Financial Services at Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan.  Patrick has extensive experience utilizing multiple Enterprise Resource Platforms and Integrated Payments solutions.   Patrick is a student centric, retention focused leader, and is most proud of the collaborative partnerships made across campus that have paved the way to creatively recruit, retain, serve, and graduate university students.  Patrick fosters an organizational vision that strives to “retain every student” and “collect every dollar”.  In addition to this student retention and A/R recovery focus, Patrick focuses on data-driven analysis and decision making and the consistent evolution of business process enhancement and efficiency. - - - -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 next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

In this episode recorded live from Transact 360, Dustin chats with Read Winkelman from Transact about his unique dual lens of personal experience as a parent of college students and decades of professional experience. Read offers a compelling look at how mobile credentials are driving convenience, enhancing campus safety, and enabling smarter student support through real-time behavioral data.From leveraging analytics to flag students who may need help, to imagining how AI and biometrics could soon personalize student services even further, this episode is packed with bold ideas and practical insights higher ed leaders need to hear.Guest Name: Read Winkelman - Vice President of Market Development and Strategy at Transact + CBORDGuest Social: LinkedInGuest Bio: Read Winkelman has worked with colleges and universities to develop plans for student success for more than 30 years. As an executive at Transact + CBORD and a parent of 3 – (2 in college and one more headed) he is both an advocate and a consumer of our technology. When not visiting customers, Read enjoys coaching hockey, hiking, road cycling or generally being active. - - - -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 next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register