Podcasts about enrollify

‍In this episode of Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO, host Jaime Hunt sits down with Anne Peters, Chief Marketing and Communications Officer at UTSA, to explore what it really means to “raise the profile” of a university. Spoiler alert: it's not just about rankings. From community-driven branding campaigns to strategic data storytelling, Anne shares a wealth of insights on how institutions of any size can authentically build visibility and credibility. Whether your campus has a football program, a medical school, or neither, this conversation is packed with actionable ideas for enrollment marketers. - - - -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 AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com.

Welcome to the final installment of this Pulse Check series — Advancement Amplified: The IA MarCom Shift — Part 5: The 90-Day Blueprint. Dan Giroux teams up with higher ed marketing powerhouse Jaime Hunt—host of Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO and author of Heart Over Hype—for a co-led conversation that delivers big, bold ideas and actionable next steps. Together, they offer a compelling, cross-functional perspective on what it means to build future-ready advancement marketing and communications (MarCom) teams—and how to do it in just 90 days. If you're serious about integrated strategies, sustainable structures, and breaking down silos, this is the episode for you.Notes / Resources:AI Maturity Matrix: https://www.solvehighered.com/ai-maturity-matrixHeart Over Hype: https://www.heartoverhypebook.comSolve Higher Ed: https://www.solvehighered.com - - - -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.

In this episode, Dustin sits down with Mike Stratta, CEO of Arcaléa, to unpack how AI is reshaping marketing strategies across industries—and what that means for higher ed. From his frustrations with top-line-only marketing to developing a data-powered product called Galileo, Mike shares how higher ed institutions can finally move beyond assumptions and start measuring what really works. They also reflect on key takeaways from the eduWeb Summit, where curiosity, collaboration, and AI-driven strategies took center stage.Guest Name: Michael Stratta, CEO, ArcaléaGuest Social: LinkedInGuest Bio: Mike Stratta is the founder and CEO of Arcalea, a firm that develops AI-driven marketing products and services for higher education and other industries. With more than 25 years of experience, Mike helps universities and C-Suite leaders transform complex data into actionable growth strategies. He has advised and lectured at the University of Chicago, Loyola's Quinlan School of Business, and Northwestern's Kellogg School of Management, where Arcalea's Galileo platform is also used to teach marketing optimization. A three-time Inc. 500 and Financial Times Fastest-Growing Companies honoree, Mike has launched multiple AI products in the past two years. He is a Vistage member, former Entrepreneurs' Organization board member, and has worked with leading institutions and global brands alike. - - - -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.

Over the past few years colleges and universities have increased the amount of text messages they send to prospective students, and many have also started texting parents and guardians. In this episode of Mission Admissions, host Jeremy Tiers talks with Laura Rudolph about the secret shopping project she recently completed – signing up as both a student and parent at several institutions.Guest Name: Laura Rudolph, Founder, Square One ConsultingGuest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurakrudolph/Guest Bio: Laura Rudolph helps small-but-mighty higher education teams strengthen their enrollment marketing and create lasting impact. As founder of Square One Consulting, she works with colleges and universities to streamline processes, build capacity, and implement strategies that connect meaningfully with students and families. Guided by empathy and a deep understanding of the student journey, Laura blends strategic vision with practical execution to equip institutions with the tools and confidence for sustainable enrollment success. - - - -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 AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com.

In this episode of Generation AI, hosts JC Bonilla and Ardis Kadiu break down A16Z's fifth annual Top 100 Gen AI Consumer Applications report, revealing how the AI app ecosystem has shifted from experimentation to consolidation. They discuss Google's aggressive entry with four separate products in the rankings, including Gemini's rapid rise to second place behind ChatGPT. The conversation explores how consumer AI has moved beyond novelty to become essential productivity tools, with specialized apps dominating specific use cases like image generation (Midjourney), voice (11 Labs), and the emerging category of agentic coding platforms like Lovable and Replit. The hosts also examine the global dynamics of AI adoption, including the significant presence of Chinese-developed apps and what these consumer trends mean for higher education professionals and their students.Opening and Mediterranean Reflections (00:00:00)Ardis returns from his brother's wedding in TuscanyDiscussion about taking time away from technology and workThe value of slowing down and gaining new perspectives on AI trendsThe A16Z Top 100 Report Overview (00:08:49)Fifth edition of Andreessen Horowitz's annual consumer AI apps reportBased on monthly active users on mobile and web trafficDifference between unique web visitors vs active users explainedFocus on consumer adoption patterns rather than enterprise AIMarket Stabilization and All-Stars (00:11:54)Only 11 new names on web list vs 17 last yearMarket maturity signals with winners consolidating positionsChatGPT reaches 700-800 million weekly active users14 brands consistently dominating across categoriesGoogle's Aggressive Multi-Product Strategy (00:17:00)Gemini takes second place with 12% of ChatGPT's web visitsIntroduction of Nano Banana image editing modelFour Google products separately ranked in top 100Strategic unbundling approach to compete across categoriesThe Rise of Agentic Coding (00:25:47)Evolution from "vibe coding" to "agentic coding"Lovable reaches #22, Replit maintains strong positionIntegration with Supabase for backend developmentReal work being done on these platforms, not just experimentationRegional Dynamics and Chinese Apps (00:29:19)22 out of 50 mobile apps are Chinese-developedDiscussion of China vs rest of world classificationChinese apps being exported globallyAI as a global technology play across regionsYear-Over-Year Changes (00:32:12)Deep Seek's rise and fall (down 40% from peak)Shift from novelty (2024) to utility (2025)Apple's crackdown on ChatGPT copycatsMobile list showing more innovation and newcomersVideo Generation Maturity (00:36:15)Google's VO3 dominates over SoraConsolidation in video generation spaceWorld models like Genie 3 emergingVideo becoming integrated into general assistantsImplications for Higher Education (00:38:01)Students already using multiple consumer AI toolsPattern of utility across companions, creativity, productivityNeed for educators to understand student tool usageRecommendation to explore top apps to understand student behaviorClosing Thoughts (00:41:20)Consumer AI adoption as mirror of society's AI integrationFocus shifting from smartest models to most useful appsEncouragement to test unfamiliar apps from the listPreview of fall conference season and upcoming AI announcements - - - -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.

Mallory Willsea welcomes Fran Zablocki, Head of Strategy at Fastspot, to explore how artificial intelligence is transforming workflows—not by replacing human expertise, but by enhancing it. Drawing on two decades of experience in digital strategy, Fran shares how tools like Perplexity, Notion, and Claude are being integrated into agency workflows and what higher ed leaders can learn from past waves of technological disruption. If you're curious about practical AI adoption in higher education, this episode delivers fresh perspective grounded in 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 AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com.

Welcome to Part 4 of this Pulse Check series — "From Lessons to Action". Dan Giroux hits pause to distill key takeaways from the first three episodes and translate them into tangible actions for higher ed MarCom and advancement professionals. Whether you're just tuning in or have been along for the ride, this episode offers a practical roadmap to help your team move from reactive order-takers to strategic partners in institutional advancement. Focused on real-world applications and actionable frameworks, this pulse-check episode lays the groundwork for sustainable, visible progress.Resources Mentioned in This Episode:Dan's newsletter, DJG Marketing Insights: https://djg-marketing.kit.com/newsletter - - - -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.

Jenny Li Fowler sits down with Joe Teo, CEO of HeyOrca, for a candid conversation about the underestimated brilliance of higher ed social media teams. From crisis communication mastery to culture-shaping content creation, Joe shares why higher ed marketers are the unsung heroes of the digital age. Tune into this episode for an energizing take on how resourceful, adaptive, and strategic these teams truly are.Guest Name: Joe Teo Chief Executive Orca, HeyOrcaGuest Social: LinkedInGuest Bio: Joe Teo is the CEO and co-founder of HeyOrca, a social media management platform helping teams and agencies build communities. He's also a “dad-in-training” to two young kids, navigating the beautiful chaos of business and family life in Newfoundland. - - - -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.

What does it actually look like to teach with AI — and teach about it — in higher ed today? In this episode, Dustin chats with Dr. Evan Kropp, Executive Director of Distance Education at the University of Florida, about how AI is transforming course design, assessment strategies, and the student experience. Dr. Kropp offers practical examples and powerful insights on how institutions can embrace AI ethically, equitably, and intentionally.Guest Name: Dr. Evan Kropp, Executive Director of Distance Education, University of Florida's College of Journalism and CommunicationsGuest Social: LinkedInGuest Bio: Dr. Evan Kropp is an experienced higher education administrator and communication scholar with a passion for digital learning innovation. As Executive Director of Distance Education at the University of Florida's College of Journalism and Communications, he leads undergraduate and graduate education initiatives focused on course quality, accessibility, engagement, and career readiness. With over a decade of leadership in online education, Evan has helped launch nationally ranked programs and cutting-edge digital courses that bridge academia and industry. He's also a frequent speaker and writer on online teaching and learning, instructional design, and the evolving role of technology 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.

You thought we were done with the show? Think again. The pursuit of top-tier tactics continues! Talking Tactics isn't going anywhere, but we ARE getting a new voice behind the mic. After 56 episodes of Day Kibilds serving up the tactical gold you've come to love, she's officially passing the torch to Safaniya "Safy" Stevenson, a brand strategist and cultural analyst equally obsessed with tactics. Get to know your new host and what she's got in store for the show. Also, find out what Day will be doing with her newfound free time. SPOILER: It's also based in tactics. She just can't give it up, can she?!Welcome our new host: Safaniya Stevenson, Brand Strategist & Cultural Analysthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/safaniyastevenson/Safy's Bio: Strategist. Storyteller. Status quo disruptor. Safaniya "Safy" Stevenson is a senior brand strategist and cultural analyst who transforms brands by understanding what makes audiences tick. With over a decade of experience spanning TV news to digital leadership, she has orchestrated viral campaigns and led multimillion-dollar rebrands for institutions like NC State, Boise State and Cal Poly Humboldt. Named a 2024 AAMA "Marketer to Watch" and SXSW EDU presenter, Safy cross-pollinates insights from industries like Food & Beverage, Tech, and Tourism to inspire fresh approaches to higher education marketing. This Raleigh-based Lego enthusiast (20+ builds and counting) applies her omnichannel expertise to create authentic narratives that elevate brands and categories. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Safaniya Stevensonhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/safaniyastevenson/ About The Enrollify Podcast Network:Talking Tactics 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.

NotebookLM transforms how we work with documents by turning any PDF, YouTube video, or audio file into multiple AI-powered formats with zero prompting required. In this hands-on demo, see how Google's source-grounded AI instantly creates professional 6-minute video summaries, interactive podcasts where you can interrupt and ask questions, visual mind maps for exploring concepts, comprehensive study guides with quizzes, and chronological timelines from your uploaded content. Unlike ChatGPT, NotebookLM never hallucinates because it only references your sources, making it perfect for analyzing research papers, creating course materials, conducting competitive analysis, or synthesizing hours of content into minutes. Real examples show 75% time savings in document analysis, Walter Isaacson using it for biography research, and Element451 creating complete employee onboarding from company documents - proving NotebookLM is the breakthrough tool for anyone drowning in information who needs actionable insights.Back to School Season and Why NotebookLM Matters (00:00:06)Discussion about the start of the school year and its significanceThe class of 2026 as the first to graduate having used ChatGPT throughout collegeIntroduction to NotebookLM as Google's AI-powered research and thinking partnerSetting the stage for practical demonstrations of game-changing featuresWhat Makes NotebookLM Revolutionary (00:05:07)Source-driven design that eliminates AI hallucinationsZero web knowledge - complete focus on your uploaded documentsBuilt on Gemini models but grounded strictly on your sourcesDirect citations and accuracy that ChatGPT can't match for document analysisNotebookLM Interface and Capabilities Overview (00:07:42)Sources panel supporting 50+ documents in pro versionAutomatic summary generation upon any document uploadThe Studio feature that creates multiple asset types instantlySupport for PDFs, audio files, YouTube videos, websites, Google DocsPowerful Real-World Applications at Element451 (00:15:47)Complete employee onboarding packages from company documentsLeadership assessment interpretation from multiple Hogan personality testsCreating interconnected insights from disparate sourcesGenerating training materials that would take weeks in minutesLive Demo: Instant Video Creation from PDF (00:19:30)Loading "Driving Toward a Degree 2025" report demonstration6-minute professional video generated without any promptingMultimedia output with synchronized audio and visual elementsFine-tuning options for specific chapters or topicsRevolutionary Interactive Podcast Feature (00:25:33)AI-generated conversational podcasts from any documentLive interaction where users can interrupt and ask questionsReal-time dialogue with AI hosts about document contentPerfect for learning complex materials through conversationMind Map Navigation for Complex Documents (00:30:29)Visual hierarchy of all document concepts and relationshipsInteractive exploration revealing hidden connectionsDeep-diving capability with automatic source citationsPattern discovery that human readers might missInstant Study Guide and Assessment Generation (00:35:23)Complete study materials created in secondsQuiz generation with answers for immediate useComprehensive glossaries for specialized terminologyFaculty saving entire summers of prep workAdvanced Asset Creation: Timelines and FAQs (00:42:36)Chronological timeline extraction from multiple documentsFAQ generation that took agencies weeks now done instantlyBriefing documents for executive summariesLLM-ready content for chatbot trainingCollaboration and Sharing Capabilities (00:44:38)Share entire notebooks with classes or teamsCreate departmental resources accessible to allPrivacy-protected individual workspacesPerfect for distributed learning environmentsGame-Changing Professional Use Cases (00:46:45)Walter Isaacson analyzing Marie Curie's journals for biographyCreative professionals discovering unconscious patterns in their workFantasy writers maintaining consistency across complex worldsChief Strategy Officer achieving 75% reduction in analysis timeNotebookLM for Learning and Training (00:51:21)Converting 3-4 hours of Kubernetes training into digestible segmentsFinding specific moments in hours of YouTube contentJob interview prep using company websites and descriptionsCompetitive intelligence from competitor materialsWhy NotebookLM Changes Everything (00:56:29)The shift from searching to synthesizing informationElement451's complete adoption for internal processesHow source-focused AI eliminates misinformationThe future of personalized, interactive learning experiences - - - -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.

Learn about the 2025 AMA Symposium for the Marketing of Higher Education - - - -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.

Jaime Hunt welcomes back data strategist and higher ed consultant Joshua Dodson for a candid and practical discussion on data analytics in higher education. From redefining what makes data “good” to debunking common misinterpretations in marketing reports, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to better leverage data for enrollment and institutional strategy. The duo also explores the democratizing power of AI in data analysis, offering actionable tips on how even resource-constrained teams can get smarter with their data starting today.Guest Name: Joshua Dodson, CEO and consultant at Honed ConsultingGuest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshuadodson/Guest Bio: Joshua Dodson is a strategic marketing leader who knows higher education inside and out. With nearly 20 years of experience, he brings a unique perspective from working both inside institutions and as an outside consultant helping universities transform their marketing approach.Joshua's career spans roles as an instructor, university AVP of digital marketing, web analytics strategist, and former Vice President of Marketing & Innovation at VisionPoint, where he led integrated marketing and web teams. He's known for consistently anticipating market trends, building consensus, and delivering measurable ROI on every project.His track record speaks for itself—Joshua has helped modernize enrollment and marketing programs at major institutions including Bentley University, where his work generated the most marketing-generated leads in the university's history, plus Southern New Hampshire University, Eastern Kentucky University, and Lincoln Memorial University.Beyond consulting, Joshua is a passionate educator and sought-after speaker who has delivered keynotes at national higher education marketing conferences and taught over 500 students as a faculty member with HigherEdExperts. He continues sharing his expertise through Dodson Academy (https://dodsonacademy.com), where he teaches professional development classes in marketing mix modeling, SEO, web analytics, and strategic marketing planning.As CEO and consultant at Honed Consulting (https://honed.agency), Joshua works across multiple industries but specializes in higher education and non-profit marketing, helping organizations strengthen their performance marketing capabilities. - - - -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 AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com.

The Advancement Strategic Communicators Network is a growing national hub for higher education philanthropic communicators. Learn more on the ASC website  (https://asc.ucdavis.edu/)  or join the ASC Linkedin Group (https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12740101/) to get connected.Guest Name: Gabrielle Giddings, Associate Vice Chancellor, Campaigns, University of DenverGuest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabriellegiddings/Guest Bio: Gabrielle Giddings is the associate vice chancellor of campaigns at the University of Denver, leading campaign communications, advancement events, and campaign operations for the University's $1B Denver Difference campaign. An advancement leader with 30+ years of experience, she believes clear, authentic storytelling builds donor trust and fuels giving. Previously, she served as assistant vice president for marketing and communications at Temple Health Institutional Advancement and the Lewis Katz School of Medicine, directing an integrated program across the health system, the school, and the university. Her expertise spans campaign communications, high-impact events, direct response, donor and alumni engagement, community relations, and crisis/media management. She holds a B.A. in Archaeology from Bryn Mawr College and an M.S. in Communication Management from Temple University (communication theory and cross-cultural leadership). - - - -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.

What if AI could make student writing more honest—not less? In this episode, Dustin sits down with Eric Wang, VP of AI at Turnitin, to talk about the launch of Turnitin Clarity: a new AI-powered document editor that helps students build critical thinking skills and helps educators better understand the process behind students' assignment submissions. Eric unpacks the “why” behind Clarity, what makes it different from your typical chatbot, and how AI can actually strengthen student-teacher trust instead of eroding it.Guest Name: Dr. Eric Wang, Vice President of AI, TurnitinGuest Social: LinkedInGuest Bio: Dr. Eric Wang leads Turnitin AI, a global team of machine learning researchers and engineers with a mission to build AI-powered teaching and learning experiences that improve learning outcomes around the world. His mission is to create AI systems that analyze, enrich, accelerate and secure the work of students and educators globally. He led the creation of the most widely used, most rigorously tested, safest and highest performing AI writing detection system on the market. In 2023, Dr. Wang led the development of Turnitin's AI writing detection feature, a tool that supports and enhances the learning process through facilitating academic integrity. In July 2024, his team took this one step further with the development of Turnitin's AI paraphrasing detection feature. - - - -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.

In this episode of Mission Admissions, host Jeremy Tiers talks with Kate Speer about the art and science of saying “no”, and the importance of setting boundaries.Guest Name: Kate Speer, Vice President of Marketing and Brand Development, Grandpa Joe's Candy ShopGuest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kate-speer/Guest Bio: Kate Speer is a people-first, results-driven connection creator with expertise in marketing, communication, engagement, counseling psychology, and positive culture building. She currently serves as the Vice President of Marketing and Brand Development for Grandpa Joe's Candy Shop, and previously held a senior role at BNY Mellon. Kate is also a Certified Social Media Strategist from the National Institute of Social Media, and she was named a 2023 Woman of the Year nominee by The National Association of the Women's Interactive Network. - - - -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 AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com.

In this episode of Generation AI, hosts Ardis Kadiu and JC Bonilla examine the widely misinterpreted MIT report claiming "95% of GenAI pilots fail," exploring why this headline misses the real story. While individual employees are finding significant value with AI tools (90% use personal AI regularly), organizations struggle to capture this value at the enterprise level—not because the technology doesn't work, but due to change management, leadership alignment, and implementation challenges. Through Element451's own QBR automation struggles, the hosts illustrate how the gap between impressive demos and measurable business impact stems from organizational readiness, not technological limitations. They discuss why vendor solutions succeed at twice the rate of internal builds (67% vs 33%), introduce Forward Deployed Engineers as the bridge between technology and business context, and explain why back office automation delivers higher ROI than marketing despite budget allocation. This conversation provides practical guidance for higher education leaders on moving from shadow AI productivity gains to true enterprise transformation, emphasizing that the challenge isn't whether AI works—it's how organizations need to evolve to capture its value.AI Deployment Reality Check: The 95% Failure Rate (00:01:35)MIT report reveals 95% of GenAI pilots fail to deliver P&L impactOnly 5% achieve rapid revenue growthDiscussion of how this mirrors Element451's internal experiencesThe difference between pilots, POCs, and actual productsThe Shadow AI Phenomenon (00:02:43)90% of employees using personal AI tools vs enterprise subscriptionsBottom-up adoption through consumer tools like ChatGPTWhy organizations can't measure or control individual productivity gainsThe challenge of enterprise AI adoption vs consumer AIBuilding vs Buying: The Success Rate Gap (00:03:34)Internal build success rate: 33%Vendor purchase success rate: 67%Why vertical solutions outperform generic toolsThe importance of domain expertise in AI deploymentElement's QBR Case Study: When AI Projects Struggle (00:14:18)Quarterly Business Review automation challengesThe gap between data analytics and expert interpretationWhy AI needs embedded best practices and rubricsThe difference between finding patterns and implementing expertiseMarketing vs Back Office: Where Real ROI Lives (00:24:10)Over 50% of AI budgets go to sales and marketingWhy back office automation delivers higher returnsThe binary nature of workflow automation successExamples: fraud detection, application review, transcript analysisThe Forward Deployed Engineer Model (00:35:56)Origin from Palantir's government contractsHow OpenAI uses FDEs for enterprise clientsThe hybrid role: technical expertise + business understandingWhy traditional consultants can't fill this gapThe Unicorn Problem: Finding AI Operations Specialists (00:41:24)Scarcity of people who understand both workflows and AI technologyWhy agencies need to evolve their business modelsThe opportunity for innovative consultanciesElement's challenge in scaling deployment expertiseKey Recommendations for Institution Leaders (00:45:18)Move from bottom-up to top-down AI strategyProperly resource AI initiatives (not just IT side projects)Buy rather than build for 2x success rateLook for vertical solutions with deep domain knowledgeInclude internal champions in deployment projectsFinal Thoughts: Moving Beyond Productivity to Transformation (00:49:31)The shift from individual productivity to enterprise ROIWhy POC success doesn't equal business impactThe importance of AI workflow coverageAccepting that most organizations aren't behind—everyone is struggling - - - -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.

In this episode of Higher Ed Pulse, host Mallory Willsea sits down with Faton Sopa, Co-Founder and CEO of Manaferra, to unpack the most in-depth research yet on how students are searching for colleges in 2025. From the rise of platform switching to the impact of AI and peer-driven validation, Faton shares actionable insights into how student behavior is evolving—and how enrollment marketers must adapt their strategies to keep pace. If you're still focused solely on winning the first click on Google, this episode will shift your perspective fast.Download: How Students Search for Colleges in 2025 - - - -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.

In Part 2 of this Pulse Check series, Dan Giroux sits down with Melissa Fincher and Shanna Hocking for a compelling look at how advancement marketing and communications teams can adapt to today's climate of fiscal uncertainty, evolving talent needs, and constant change. This episode dives deep into how higher ed leaders can rethink team structures, integrate AI responsibly, and develop talent that drives long-term value. Whether you're leading an advancement team or building one, this is a must-listen conversation for navigating the next era of higher education marketing.Resources provided by Melissa:WittKieffer Open Searches in Marketing, Communications, & Strategy: https://wittkieffer.com/positions?excellence=227WittKieffer Interim Talent Network: https://wittkieffer.com/form/interim-talent-networkWittKieffer Insights: https://wittkieffer.com/insightsWittKieffer Executive Searches on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/showcase/current-executive-searches/Resources provided by Shanna:HBR “5 Qualities to Look for in a New Hire”: https://hbr.org/2024/03/5-qualities-to-look-for-in-a-new-hireBOLD Blueprint for Women in Advancement: https://www.hockingleadership.com/research-studyGuest Names: Melissa Fincher, Principal and Practice Leader, Marketing & Communications, WittKiefferShanna Hocking, Founder and CEO, Hocking LeadershipGuest Socials:Melissa: MFincher@wittkieffer.comShanna: shanna@shannaahocking.comGuest Bios: Principal Melissa Fincher serves as the Marketing & Communications Practice Leader for WittKieffer's Education Market. She has partnered on 170+ executive searches with a wide variety of mission-serving clients. Her varied experiences make her uniquely qualified to support institutions with their short and long-term talent strategies and solutions. She started her career at Rutgers University in undergraduate admissions. She then served Johns Hopkins, first as a member of the Development & Alumni Relations senior leadership team and then as the inaugural talent acquisition consultant. Prior to joining WittKieffer, Melissa was a talent and organizational development consultant at The Ohio State University.Shanna (rhymes with Donna) is a nationally recognized expert in higher education advancement and nonprofit leadership, and the author of One Bold Move a Day (McGraw Hill). She is the founder and CEO of Hocking Leadership, a strategic advisory firm that helps universities and academic medical centers strengthen their leaders, build high-performing teams, and develop workplace cultures that increase retention and grow philanthropy. Shanna spent more than 20 years as a fundraising executive, leading teams and raising transformational gifts at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, the University of Alabama, and Duke University. Today, she partners with chief advancement executives and their teams to solve their most complex leadership challenges.She is a LinkedIn Top Voice and her expertise has been featured in Harvard Business Review, Fortune, Fast Company, and The Wall Street Journal. - - - -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.

Jenny Li Fowler sits down with Amanda Natividad — marketer, podcaster, and former trained chef — to tackle a challenge every social media manager and content creator eventually faces: handling negative comments and trolls online. From understanding the difference between criticism and trolling to learning when to clap back and when to scroll on, Amanda shares real-life stories, personal missteps, and practical strategies for keeping your cool in the chaotic world of online engagement. If you've ever let one bad comment ruin your day, this conversation is your crash course in building resilience and reclaiming perspective.Guest Name: Amanda Natividad, VP of Marketing, SparkToroGuest Socials: LinkedInInstagramMeme Team PodcastGuest Bio: Amanda Natividad is VP of Marketing for audience research startup, SparkToro. In her spare time, she co-hosts the Meme Team podcast and writes a marketing newsletter called the Menu (with over 16k subscribers). She's also the creator/teacher for Content Marketing 201, a contributor for Adweek, a Le Cordon Bleu-trained chef, and a former journalist. Amanda previously led marketing for Growth Machine, led marketing for Liftopia, built Fitbit's B2B content program, and led content and communications for NatureBox. - - - -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.

Amy Swank, Executive Director of Parent and Family Programs at the University of Oregon, joins Dustin to unpack the transformative potential of family engagement in higher ed. Drawing on two decades of experience and her work with CampusESP and AHEPPP, Amy shares how institutions can strategically cultivate meaningful, lifelong relationships with parents and families—not just for student support, but to boost philanthropy, increase retention, and foster belonging.Guest Name: Amy Swank - Executive Director of Parent and Family Engagement, Philanthropy, and Student Life at University of OregonGuest Social: LinkedInGuest Bio: Amy Swank brings over 20 years of experience in higher education and currently serves as the Executive Director of Family Engagement, Philanthropy, and Student Life at the University of Oregon. A nationally recognized leader in parent and family engagement, Amy has a deep understanding of what families expect and need throughout their students' college journeys. At Oregon, she has built innovative programs that connect families to campus life, foster philanthropic support, and directly enhance the student experience.Amy is known for building meaningful, lasting relationships with families through intentional communication, proactive support, and inclusive opportunities for involvement. Her work not only strengthens the university's connection with families—it creates tangible impact for students. Amy also served as Past President of AHEPPP: Family Engagement in Higher Education, where she helped shape the national conversation around best practices in family engagement. - - - -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.

JC Bonilla and Ardis Kadiu step outside the US "AI bubble" to examine how artificial intelligence adoption varies dramatically across the globe. With 72% global adoption but Latin America trailing at 40%, the hosts reveal a stark digital divide shaped by infrastructure, culture, and economic realities. They explore why agentic AI remains in its "first inning" globally despite executive enthusiasm, how workplace dynamics differ between regions where AI replaces $50K vs $20K salaries, and why countries like China and Singapore are embedding AI into K-12 education while others struggle with basic computer access. This episode provides essential context for understanding AI's uneven global impact and why the US perspective doesn't tell the whole story.Cold open: usage gaps and access (00:00:00)UK undergrads using gen-AI hit ~92% year over year.Latin America's school device and internet gaps slow use.Set up: adoption is uneven and context matters.Bubble vs reality check (00:02:35)Social feeds make AI feel “everywhere,” daily life says otherwise.Travel lens: listen for real-world use outside the tech echo.What we'll cover and why (00:04:49)Four lenses: tool adoption, agents, workplace, education.Aim: move from hype to signals you can act on.Fresh adoption stats and the ROI lens (00:06:07)Global gen-AI usage is high, but real wins come from ROI-tied use.Europe shows ROI-driven enterprise rollouts; region-by-region gaps appear.Consumer vs enterprise, and the labor behind AI (00:08:50)Personal use ≠ business use; keep them separate.Reminder: global labeling and review work trained early systems.Early winners and the pipes (00:11:56)Marketing and coding see fast gains.Bandwidth and devices still gate progress in many countries.Agents: hype, orchestration, and failure modes (00:15:58)Leaders say agents boost productivity, but integration stalls many efforts.Orchestration is critical; few firms have agents fully scaled.Value math and the “first inning” (00:19:03)Wage levels change the payback for automation across regions.Most teams are still testing; scale is rare.Do users care what an “agent” is? (00:21:14)Consumers want outcomes, not labels.Paid features and price sensitivity vary by country.ChatGPT traffic by country shows surprising leaders beyond the US.Workplace reality: trust vs maturity (00:26:07)Managers already ask chatbots before bosses in some markets.Spend plans rise while true maturity stays low.Tool availability is shaped by regulation and data rules.Multinationals as a vector; the US workforce plan (00:30:04)Global firms spread practices across offices.US agencies outline skills, pilots, and faster program updates with AI.Policy map: who has a plan (00:34:26)Fully formed playbooks: US, EU, Singapore, UAE, South Korea, China.Building momentum: UK, Australia, India, Japan, Canada.Why it matters: rules decide who gets which tools, and when.Education: usage, divide, and Asia's lead moves (00:36:59)Student use is high, but access gaps are real in parts of LATAM.Asia embeds AI into K-12 and teacher training at scale.Teaching shift: less “teaching,” more coaching (00:41:25)Study modes and AI tutors push critical thinking support.Open question: who will rewrite pedagogy end-to-end?Wrap: four takeaways for leaders (00:42:53)Adoption is high; scale is hard.Agents need orchestration and clean integration.Policy and pipes set the pace.For higher ed: fund skills, pick focused agent use cases, track ROI, and align with policy early. - - - -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.

On this episode of Higher Ed Pulse, host Mallory Willsea sits down with Carol Keese, VP for Communications and Chief Marketing Officer at the University of Oregon, to explore what happens when fear—not clarity—drives AI strategy. This conversation dives deep into the dangers of AI copycat culture, the hype cycle gripping higher ed, and the critical importance of grounding decisions in institutional values. Tune in to learn why now is the time for thoughtful, strategic adoption—not reactive moves.Related Articles:In the Room Where It Happens: Generative AI Policy Creation in Higher EducationMarketing and Enrollment Management AI Readiness Report 2025 - - - -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.

Jaime welcomes Camryn Simpson and Blake Mischley of MeetYourClass to break down insights from their newly released 2025 College Decision Playbook. The conversation dives deep into the shifting priorities of Gen Z students—from major-first decision-making to the critical importance of digital campus "vibes." If you're crafting a marketing strategy for student recruitment or aiming to improve yield, this is an episode you don't want to miss.The 2025 College Decision Playbook: https://colleges.meetyourclass.com/resources/2025-college-decision-playbookGuest Names: Blake Mischley, Co-founder and CEO, MeetYourClassCamryn Simpson, Head of Community, MeetYourClassGuest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/camryn-simpson-1a9739194/https://www.linkedin.com/in/blake-mischley/Guest Bio: Blake Mischley is the Co-Founder and CEO of MeetYourClass, a platform helping students build community from application through move-in. A recent graduate of the University of Michigan with a degree in Computer Science, Blake has been building in the social media space since middle school—first through content creation and later by working with top digital creators.He launched MeetYourClass while still in college after recognizing a disconnect between how students engage on platforms like Instagram and other popular social media platforms and the tools available to enrollment teams that meet students where they are. Today, MeetYourClass has grown to over 600,000 students and 20+ university partners, driven entirely by organic student adoption.Camryn Simpson is the Head of Community at MeetYourClass, where she leads marketing, community strategy, and partner engagement across a growing network of higher education institutions. As the company's first employee, she's helped shape both sides of the platform—building authentic peer-to-peer communities that students want to join, while supporting institutional partners in tracking connections and community growth, and embedding social communities more naturally into their enrollment strategies.Camryn graduated from the University of Pittsburgh in 2022 with a degree in Marketing. Prior to joining MeetYourClass, she built her marketing and community expertise through roles at companies like American Eagle Outfitters and Bumble—gaining hands-on experience creating authentic connections and engaging modern audiences. She's passionate about designing student experiences that feel personal and relevant, and bringing more empathy, transparency, and creativity into higher education marketing.  - - - -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 AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com.

Dan Giroux sits down with higher ed marketing trailblazer Terry Flannery to explore how advancement marketing communications teams can break free from reactive, order-taking roles and step into their rightful place as strategic partners. With decades of experience leading marketing and communications at top universities and now as EVP and COO at CASE, Terry offers a 360-degree view on the myths, opportunities, and mindset shifts needed to maximize impact. From debunking the “press release as pizza order” mentality to cultivating trust with advancement leaders, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone seeking to elevate advancement MarCom strategy. - - - - Connect With Our Host: Mallory Willsea  https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/ https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea About 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.

Tech support isn't sexy—but it might be the most important thing your institution isn't thinking enough about. In this episode, Dustin welcomes Christopher Schmidt, Global Director for Client Support at Transact, to unpack why support systems are breaking under pressure and what higher ed needs to do about it. With deep experience in both the military and campus technology, Chris shares a grounded, urgent perspective on how institutions can scale smarter, retain institutional knowledge, and build tech ecosystems that don't crumble when a key player leaves.Guest Name: Christopher Schmidt, Director of Client Support at Transact CampusGuest Social: LinkedInGuest Bio: Christopher Schmidt is the Director of Client Support for Transact Campus, overseeing technical support operations across Higher Education, Healthcare, and Enterprise markets. With a career built at the intersection of technology, client success, and operational leadership, Christopher has redefined how support organizations can function as strategic drivers — not just reactive teams. - - - -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.

GPT5 Launch and Model Architecture (00:00:00)OpenAI announces GPT5 after multiple delaysFour model variants: GPT5, GPT5 Pro, GPT5 Mini, and GPT5 NanoIntroduction of intelligent router system that automatically selects modelsLaunch issues with router sending queries to wrong models initiallyThe Router Revolution: No More Model Selection (00:05:06)How the router uses previous ChatGPT usage signals to train selectionProduct decision to remove model dropdown confusion for usersSmall model in front makes decisions based on task complexityUsers can influence selection by asking model to "think hard"Dramatic Improvements in Accuracy (00:12:43)45% hallucination rate vs GPT4's 80% rateBetter data quality and reinforcement learning improvementsFocus on agentic behavior and context gatheringTool calling accuracy improvements for real-world applicationsThree Key Enhancement Areas (00:24:34)Coding: Direct competition with Claude and Anthropic's modelsWriting: Shorter, more concise, better quality outputsMedical/Healthcare: Improved analysis of health documents and test resultsEach area received specialized reinforcement learningDeveloper Implementation Challenges (00:18:13)Markdown disabled by default requiring explicit instructionsShorter instructions work better than detailed promptsNeed to rethink system prompts and instruction patternsDifferent behavior requires rewriting existing implementationsPricing and Competitive Positioning (00:29:13)GPT5 offers best price-to-performance ratio in market1/12 the cost of competing models like Claude Opus 4.1Free tier users get access to GPT5 with routingPro tier ($200/month) provides research-grade intelligenceReal-World Implementation at element451 (00:20:11)Immediate deployment for summarization and classification tasksEvaluation ongoing for higher-stakes applicationsBenefits of pluggable AI architecture for new modelsDifferent models for different latency requirementsMarket Impact and User Adoption (00:40:03)Free user reasoning model usage jumped from 1% to 7% in daysPlus users increased from 7% to 24% reasoning model usageTraffic doubled overnight causing serving challengesOpenAI deprecating all previous models to focus resourcesThe Future of AI Assistants (00:43:22)Evolution from assistant to "chief of staff" capabilityModel knows when to act and how hard to thinkImplications for higher education automationWhy institutions should adopt GPT5 immediately- - - -Connect With Our Co-Hosts:Ardis Kadiuhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ardis/https://x.com/ardisDr. JC Bonillahttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jcbonilla/https://x.com/jbonillxAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:Generation AI is a part of the . 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. - - - -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.

We break down one of the busiest AI news days of the year and focus on what it means for colleges. We cover Google's Genie 3 “world model,” OpenAI's new open-weight reasoning models (GPT-OSS 120B/20B), and Anthropic's Opus 4.1 gains for coding agents. Then we shift to the big story for campuses: ChatGPT “Study Mode” and Gemini “Guided Learning,” plus Google's free Gemini Pro for students and a $1B education push. If you run marketing, admissions, or student success, this episode helps you plan pilots for fall, cut model costs, and rethink onboarding and tutoring with AI.Cold open + timestamp and setup (00:00:00)JC's line: “If ChatGPT talks, Genie walks.”We set the date: recorded Wed, Aug 6, referencing news from Aug 5.Quick heads-up that GPT-5 may land this week.What dropped: three models, three angles (00:02:00)Anthropic: Claude Opus 4.1 with coding gains.OpenAI: open-weight reasoning models (GPT-OSS 120B/20B).Google: Genie 3 “world model.”Main focus today will be study features for learning.OpenAI's open weights: why now and why it helps (00:06:00)Pressure from R1-style models and a growing OSS wave.Open weights expand the dev base and enable on-prem or offline builds.Cost note: we discuss ~91% cheaper runs via alt providers like Cerebras/Groq in some workflows.Takeaway for schools and vendors: cheaper agents and less lock-in.Anthropic's Opus 4.1: coding agents get sharper (00:10:40)Better long-context reasoning and tool use.Stronger at “find the right file, make the right change, don't break other parts.”Expect Cursor/Vibe/Copilot-style tools to feel snappier.Good fit for campus IT and rapid feature fixes.Genie 3 explained in plain terms (00:16:14)What a “world model” is: generates an interactive environment with physics and memory, not just frames.Why it's different from diffusion/video models: it keeps state and acts over time.Why it matters: training agents, robotics, labs, and rich simulations.Use cases for learning: labs, history, and more (00:25:27)Think virtual physics labs, time-period scenes, or fieldwork-style tasks.Pricing and access still unclear at record time.Gemini “Guided Learning” lands (00:27:52)Moves past one-shot Q&A to a step-by-step teach mode.Based on a learning-tuned model family (LearnLM) now inside Gemini.Students get free Gemini Pro for 12 months in select countries; NotebookLM shout-out.Why the free student play matters (00:29:28)Classic “win them early” motion; boosts daily use and skills.Helpful for course work, capstones, and research support.ChatGPT “Study Mode”: how it works (00:33:52)Interactive prompts, hints, and self-reflection.Scaffolded answers to cut overwhelm on hard topics.Personalized support, knowledge checks, and progress cues.Quick toggle in and out of study mode mid chat.Simple example that sells it (00:40:05)Ask “What is life?”Regular mode gives a direct answer; Study Mode first asks what angle you mean (bio, philosophy, personal), then guides you forward.Slows you down in a good way to build real understanding.What's next for study features (00:40:59)Clearer visuals for complex ideas.Goal setting and progress across chats.Deeper personalization by skill level.Google's $1B education push (00:42:26)Funding over three years for AI literacy, research, and cloud.“AI for Education” accelerator with free training and career certs.Schools should apply and point students to the free Pro offer.Big picture for campuses (00:45:52)Vendors are playing the long game on learning use cases.Leaders should plan training and policy now, not later.Close and next watch-items (00:47:25)Net: faster models are nice, useful models change outcomes.We'll revisit once GPT-5 news lands; send us topics to cover. - - - -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.

In this episode of Higher Ed Pulse, host Mallory Willsea sits down with Carrie Pitts-Densmore, VP of Enrollment and Marketing at Johnston Community College, to unpack the quiet chaos unfolding in higher ed teams. This timely discussion explores why proactive employees are losing patience, how AI inequity is disproportionately affecting women, and what institutional leaders must do now to retain top talent. If you're not thinking of AI strategy as a retention strategy, you're already behind.Related Links: Marketing and Enrollment Management AI Readiness Report 2025Research: The Hidden Penalty of Using AI at WorkRegister for PRIMA NC - - - -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.

In the final part of this Pulse Check series, Dave sits down with Anne Murphy, founder of SheLeadsAI and Empowered Fundraising Consulting, to explore the intersection of gender, leadership, and AI. Anne shares how a personal health crisis and a chance encounter with ChatGPT reshaped her professional life and ignited a movement to ensure women — particularly Gen X women — play a central role in the AI revolution. Tune in for a conversation packed with truth bombs, real-world insights, and inspiring takeaways for anyone navigating AI in higher education and beyond.Guest Name: Anne Murphy, Founder, She Leads AIGuest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/she-leads-ai/Guest Bio: Anne Murphy is the founder of She Leads AI, a movement bringing accomplished women together to advance AI for global prosperity. She's a leading AI operations consultant, helping organizations integrate AI responsibly through a focus on people, process, and culture  Anne has trained thousands of professionals in responsible AI deployment and serves on advisory boards shaping the future of ethical AI. She also brings decades of experience in fundraising, driving growth for STEM education and research in higher education, now serving the nonprofit sector throughfirm, Empowered Fundraiser Consulting.When she's not working at the intersection of AI, leadership, and impact, Anne is an avid backpacker and outdoor enthusiast, and a proud mom of three. - - - -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.

Jenny Li Fowler sits down with Chelsey Holts, Director of Content Strategy at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Chelsey recounts her firsthand experience managing campus communications during not one—but two—active shooter incidents at UNC. This powerful conversation explores the evolving role of social media in emergency communications, the need for cross-functional collaboration, and how crisis preparedness can shape a content strategy that's both compassionate and clear. If you're responsible for social media in higher ed, this is a must-listen.Guest Name: Chelsey Holts, Director of Content Strategy at the University of North Carolina at Chapel HillGuest Socials:LinkedInInstagramGuest Bio: Chelsey Holts is the Director of Content Strategy at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, overseeing the development and implementation of campus-wide communications content in support of the University's brand strategy and key messages. In her role, she advises leadership on strategy and reputation and works with a team to identify, produce and amplify impactful content for Carolina's various audiences on its website, social media channels and email newsletter. She consults with colleagues across campus on strategy and crisis management and leads collaborative initiatives with departments and schools. Previously, Chelsey served as the Director of Social Media for Carolina. Her experience in social media and digital marketing spans various industries, including automotive, entertainment, agricultural and higher education. Chelsey is a graduate of the UNC Hussman School of Journalism and Media and has published several articles in the Journal of Education Advancement & Marketing. - - - -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.

What does it actually look like to run a truly digital-first institution? In this episode, Dustin sits down with Erika Orris, Senior Vice President of Operations at American Public University System, to unpack how her team supports a fully online student body. From personalized program pathways to AI-powered outreach, Erika shares the tools, systems, and philosophies that make American Public University a model for adult learner success. If your institution is serious about student-centric innovation, this is a conversation you don't want to miss.Guest Name: Erika Orris, Senior VP of Operations, American Public University SystemGuest Social: LinkedInGuest Bio: Erika Orris is the Senior Vice President of Operations at APUS, overseeing services such as Admissions, Academic and Financial Aid Advising, the Student Support Center, Military Assistance Team, and Student and Alumni Services. She has over 30 years of experience in marketing and enrollment management and joined APUS in October 2022.Her recent initiatives include straight-line degree plans, a net price calculator for non-traditional students, graduation-focused advising, a streamlined transfer process, and Career Link—an AI-powered career services platform.Previously, Ms. Orris was Executive Vice President at ThriveDX, where she implemented scalable systems to improve the student journey. She also served as Chief Enrollment and Marketing Officer at the University of Maryland Global Campus, leading its rebranding and launching the Student Success Coach program.Earlier roles include Vice President at DeVry University and President of a start-up branch campus. She holds an MBA from UMGC and a B.A. from the University of Pittsburgh. - - - -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.

In this technical deep dive, Generation AI explores the evolution from prompt engineering to context engineering - a critical shift in how we build intelligent AI systems. Hosts Ardis Kadiu and Petar Djordjevic from Element451 break down why static prompts are no longer enough and how dynamic context management is the key to creating truly smart agents. They explain the technical architecture behind retrieval augmented generation (RAG), discuss the challenges of building multi-agent systems that coordinate effectively, and reveal how Element451's new bulk jobs feature represents the cutting edge of context engineering in higher education. The episode concludes with an analysis of Mark Zuckerberg's vision for "personal superintelligence" - always-on AI assistants that remember everything about you. This matters because institutions need to understand that the success of AI agents depends entirely on having rich, well-structured data and proper context management - not just smart models.Introduction and the Shift from Prompt to Context Engineering (00:00:00)Welcome back Petar Djordjevic as co-host for the third timeThe transformation from static prompt libraries to dynamic context systemsWhy GPT-4's evolution to reasoning models changed everythingHow agents use tools to gather real-time information instead of relying on frozen knowledgeDefining Context Engineering vs Prompt Engineering (00:04:11)Context engineering as managing dynamic information for AI tasksThe evolution from one-shot prompt problems to complex agent workflowsHow automation requirements drove the need for context engineeringWhy "it's their first day on the job every day" for AI modelsDeep Dive into RAG (Retrieval Augmented Generation) (00:17:17)The complete RAG pipeline: from user query to accurate responseBreaking down queries into multiple intents for better resultsVector databases and metadata attachment for information storageThe importance of combining keyword search with semantic searchAdvanced RAG Techniques and Challenges (00:21:08)Data preparation: parsing PDFs and extracting meaningful chunksWhy semantic search alone isn't enough - the CS101 problemRe-ranking and post-processing to get the most relevant resultsHow to handle citations and build user trust in AI responsesBuilding Complex Agent Systems at Element451 (00:33:08)Element451's new Bulk Jobs feature as a case studyThe research phase: gathering student data, interaction history, and contextWhy data-rich platforms are essential for successful agentsMoving from segment-based personalization to true "segment of one"Context Pruning and Tool Selection (00:41:31)Why you can't just throw all data into the context windowPerformance degradation with large contexts - the needle in haystack problemSelecting the right tools for each task (SMS vs WhatsApp example)How to compress and adapt content for optimal performanceMulti-Agent Coordination and State Management (00:46:48)The challenge of multiple agents working on the same studentContext writing: how agents remember what they did and whyPreventing redundant actions across different departmentsBuilding systems that coordinate like experienced teamsCommon Mistakes in Context Engineering (00:50:17)The danger of being "lazy about context" and assuming AI is smart enoughWhy domain expertise is crucial for building effective agentsThe importance of vertical-specific agents (Cursor, Harvey, Sierra examples)How Element451 leverages its CRM data for education-specific agentsThe Future: Personal Superintelligence (00:53:18)Mark Zuckerberg's vision of always-on, memory-rich personal AIMeta's glasses as the computing platform of the futureAndrej Karpathy's small model with massive context approachChallenges: ambient monitoring, recall/summary, lifelong memory files - - - -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.

Mallory Willsea sits down with Mike Bell, Chief Marketing Officer at Everspring, to explore the disruptive impact of AI search tools on college discovery and decision-making. Drawing from Everspring's just-released 2025 AI Search Trends report, they unpack how platforms like ChatGPT and Perplexity are reshaping the higher education marketing funnel. With over 450,000 student interactions analyzed, the data reveals a major shift in student behavior—and a warning for marketers who aren't ready. If you're a higher ed CMO wondering where your institution stands in AI-generated search results, this episode is your wake-up call.Related Links: 2025 AI Search Trends Report by EverspringRegister for the Admission + AI Summit on August 21st - - - -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.

In this episode of Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO, host Jaime Hunt sits down with Nikki Ferrell, Associate Director of Online Enrollment Marketing and Communications at Miami University, to explore how higher education institutions can adopt AI ethically and intentionally. They reflect on past tech disruptions—like the chaotic rollout of university websites and social media—and offer strategies to prevent similar pitfalls with AI. Nikki shares how Miami University is proactively building a responsible, inclusive AI implementation framework grounded in transparency and ongoing education. Whether you're just starting to think about AI or already experimenting with tools, this episode is packed with practical advice.Guest Name: Nikki Ferrell, Associate Director of Online Enrollment Marketing and Communications at Miami UniversityGuest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nferrell/Guest Bio: Nikki Ferrell is the Associate Director of Online Enrollment Marketing and Communications at Miami University, where she chairs a cross-departmental AI Steering Committee focused on research, policy, principles, and education. Inspired by her graduate work in composition and rhetoric, she champions ethical, transparent, and inclusive AI adoption across teams by fostering open dialogue, thoughtful experimentation, and ongoing learning. Nikki's current focus is expanding staff training and educational resources to ensure Miami's marketing practices evolve responsibly alongside the technology. - - - -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 AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com.

In Part 3 of this Pulse Check series, Dave Hunt sits down with Maya Georgieva, Founding Senior Director of the Innovation Center and the XR, AI, and Quantum Labs at Parsons School of Design at The New School. Maya unpacks what it means to be a “narrative futurist” and explores how creative professionals can meaningfully engage with frontier technologies like spatial computing, generative AI, and quantum systems. The conversation dives deep into authorship, ethics, immersive storytelling, and how to maintain the human voice in an increasingly automated world.Guest Name: Maya Georgieva, Senior Director, Innovation Center - AI, XR (VR, AR, Spatial Computing) and Quantum Labs, The New SchoolGuest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mayaig/Guest Bio: Maya Georgieva is a futurist, immersive storyteller, and global thought leader shaping the future of learning, creativity, and innovation. She is Senior Director of the Innovation Center and the XR, AI, and Quantum Labs at The New School, where she leads strategic work at the intersection of storytelling, emerging technologies, and design. At Parsons School of Design, Maya teaches the largest Immersive Storytelling course in the U.S., guiding students in building speculative worlds using VR, AR, and generative AI. A sought-after speaker and writer, Maya's work has been featured in the EDUCAUSE Review, The Economist, The Atlantic, and she has presented at the United Nations, UNESCO, SXSW, and more. Most recently, she co-authored several landmark reports on AI ethics, XR in education, and immersive learning. - - - -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.

What makes a tech stack work for people, not just processes? In this energizing episode, Dustin chats with Sarah Kotlinski, Director of Enrollment Systems and Analytics at Gettysburg College, about the real art behind edtech integration. Sarah shares her “three gates” framework for evaluating tools, how she turns everyday tech into superpowered solutions, and why she's a firm believer in departmental independence with intentional collaboration. You'll leave with practical ideas for managing your systems better—and maybe even rethinking how you define success in digital transformation.Guest Name: Sarah Kotlinski - Director of Enrollment Systems and Analytics at Gettysburg CollegeGuest Social: LinkedInGuest Bio: Sarah Kotlinski is the Director of Enrollment Systems and Analytics at Gettysburg College, where she is building a tech stack designed to engage, inform, and simplify every step of the enrollment journey. With over 35 years of experience in higher education, Sarah brings deep expertise and a collaborative spirit to her work.Beyond Gettysburg, she is a Technolutions Slate Community Ambassador and the founder and leader of the Slate Training user group. She also co-facilitates the Slate–Common App user group, mentors new Common App member institutions, and serves on both the CampusESP Customer Advisory Board and the College Board's Enrollment Solutions Strategic Advisory Group. - - - -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.

In this episode of Higher Ed Pulse, host Mallory Willsea is joined by David Weil, Senior Vice President and CIO at Ithaca College, for a conversation about one of the most urgent issues in higher education today: the disappearance of entry-level jobs due to AI automation. They explore how institutions can evolve curricula, redefine readiness, and support students in launching careers in a workforce being rapidly reshaped by artificial intelligence. This episode offers timely insights into AI literacy, human-centered skills development, and the future of work.Related Link: https://www.insidehighered.com/opinion/career-advice/advancing-administrator/2024/02/01/key-questions-top-higher-ed-leaders-should - - - -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.

In this bonus episode recorded live from the eduWeb Summit, Dustin sits down with Eric Butler from Modern Campus about how today's content management systems are powering smarter, more personalized digital experiences for students. From AI-powered personalization to low-code flexibility for campus editors, Eric shares how Modern Campus is helping institutions turn their websites into dynamic, student-first platforms—without overwhelming their already stretched teams.Guest Name: Eric Butler - Senior Account Manager at Modern CampusGuest Social: LinkedInGuest Bio: Eric Butler currently serves on the Account Management team at Modern Campus. He has a deeply personal desire to improve the quality of relationships and overall performance of his clients. He helps customers launch new technology platforms, extend the use of their existing tools to reduce friction, and improve overall student satisfaction. - - - -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.

In this bonus episode recorded live from the eduWeb Summit, Dustin speaks with Thomas Steinman from Halda about how AI is reshaping the future of admissions and marketing—one prompt at a time. From demystifying AI in the hands-on “AI Studio” at the event to making the case for stronger data integration, Thomas breaks down what higher ed pros need to know about creating more personalized, scalable student experiences. The theme? Start small, stay curious, and let the data do the heavy lifting.Guest Name: Thomas Steinman - Director of Strategic Partnerships at Halda.AIGuest Social: LinkedInGuest Bio: As Director of Strategic Partnerships at Halda, Thomas Steinman helps to transform the way higher education institutions engage with prospective students. He works with his teams to craft red-carpet web experiences that captivate and inspire. Thomas is proud to help schools reimagine their online presence, revolutionizing how they connect with students and showcase their value. - - - -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.

In Part 3 of this Pulse Check series, Dave Hunt sits down with Lori Mazor—architect turned author, innovator, and CEO of Synthetivity—to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping creativity. Lori, author of TEMPERATURE, Creativity, and the Age of AI, breaks down how thinking differently about creativity, control, and collaboration with AI can lead to more human-centered, purpose-driven innovation. Whether you're a skeptic or an AI evangelist, this conversation will challenge your assumptions and reframe your role in a future shaped by intelligent tools. Perfect for creative professionals, higher ed leaders, and AI-curious marketers, this episode highlights how AI can be a partner in expanding—not replacing—our humanity.Guest Name: Lori Mazor, bestselling author and CEO of SYNTHETIVITYGuest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorimazor/Guest Bio: Lori is bestselling author of TEMPERATURE: Creativity in the Age of AI, and is a leading voice in artificial intelligence and creativity. She began her career as an architect focusing on cultural and academic projects, then quickly rose to become the first vice president for Planning and Design at New York University.Today, she's the CEO of SYNTHETIVITY, where she develops and delivers groundbreaking educational programs that equip leaders and creatives with hands-on skills to integrate AI into their workflows.Through her educational programs and Humans of AI newsletter, she fosters a vibrant community of professionals exploring the impact of AI on society and creativity. Lori is passionate about leveraging AI tools to help people become better humans, ensuring that technology enhances our humanity rather than diminishes it. - - - -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.

What does it take to design an institution around students who work full-time, raise kids, serve in the military, or all of the above? In this conversation, National University President Dr. Mark Milliron shares how NU has been built from the ground up to meet the needs of today's learners—and why that's not a side hustle, it's the whole hustle. With a laser focus on access, flexibility, and outcomes, Mark lays out a compelling vision for student success that's as rigorous as it is human-centered.Guest Name: Dr. Mark D. Milliron, President, National UniversityGuest Social: LinkedInGuest Bio: Dr. Mark David Milliron is an award-winning leader, author, speaker, and consultant who works with universities, community colleges, K-12 schools, foundations, corporations, associations, and government agencies across the country and around the world.He serves as President and CEO of National University (NU), one of the largest private, nonprofit universities in the United States. NU is designated as a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) and has a 50-year history of innovating around the needs of military, working, and nontraditional students.In addition to his work with NU, Dr. Milliron helps catalyze positive change in education through his service on the boards and advisory councils of leading-edge education organizations, including the Trellis Foundation; Bennett College; the Global Online Academy; Civitas Learning; the Mastery Transcript Consortium; and ISKME/Open Education Resource Commons. He also holds an appointment as a Professor of Practice in the College of Education at The University of Texas at Austin. - - - -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.

In this bonus episode recorded live from the eduWeb Summit, Dustin sits down with Sean Fitzpatrick, CMO at Overit and former higher ed marketing leader, to unpack how AI is transforming the SEO landscape. From structured data to conversational content and zero-click search, Sean explains how institutions can stay visible and relevant in an AI-first web. The takeaway? It's not about fighting the change—it's about riding the wave with intention.Guest Name: Sean Fitzpatrick - Chief Marketing Officer at OveritGuest Social: LinkedInGuest Bio: Sean Fitzpatrick currently serves as the Chief Marketing Officer at Overit. He provides strategy and marketing program management for a range of clients at the agency. As an experienced marketing director and strategist, Sean's strengths are his creativity, drive and leadership. He thrives on finding clarity within complexity and meeting ambitious business goals. - - - -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.

In this bonus episode recorded live from the eduWeb Summit, Dustin chats with Destinee Mack from Workzone about how project management is evolving to meet the unique demands of higher ed. From managing competing priorities to streamlining collaboration between teams and agencies, Destinee shares how WorkZone is helping colleges and universities work smarter—not harder—without needing a full-time project manager on staff.Guest Name: Destinee Mack - VP of Customer Success at WorkzoneGuest Social: LinkedInGuest Bio: Destinee Mack is an experienced customer experience and success executive with an extensive track record of customer value attainment and expansion. A passionate leader, wife, mother, mentor and friend, she believes that a detailed understanding along the customer journey is the key to developing a strategy that allows both customers and businesses to achieve their desired outcomes. - - - -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.

In this episode of Higher Ed Pulse, host Mallory Willsea sits down with Devin Purgason, AVP of Student Experience Marketing and Outreach at Forsyth Technical Community College, to dive into the behind-the-scenes of deploying AI on campus. From building better knowledge bases to turning karaoke into community-building, Devin shares key lessons from the 2024 Engage Summit, his takeaways as an AMA Symposium planning committee member, and his vision for a more human-centered, tech-enabled future in higher ed.If you're an enrollment marketer exploring AI in higher education or seeking practical student success strategies, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration.Related Links: ‍Register for the 2025 AMA Symposium for the Marketing of Higher EducationWatch all the sessions from the 2025 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.

In this episode of Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO, host Jaime Hunt sits down with Jeff Kallay, Senior Vice President of Enrollment Consulting at Echo Delta, to explore the often-overlooked role of parents in the college search and decision-making process. With experience consulting on over 300 college campuses, Jeff brings a unique and data-informed perspective on how institutions can better engage parents, families, and caregivers—not just during campus visits but throughout the student lifecycle. Tune in for a provocative conversation filled with actionable insights and storytelling that will change the way you think about parent engagement in higher ed.Guest Name: Jeff Kallay, Senior VP of Enrollment Consulting, Echo DeltaGuest Bio: Jeff Kallay is a nationally respected authority on campus visit experiences and student recruitment. Over the course of his career, he has worked with more than 300 college and university campuses across the country to create compelling visit experiences—the kind of experiences that align with strategic enrollment goals while also forging strong connections with best-fit students and their families. Jeff graduated from Lee College with a Bachelor of Science in 1986. Now, as Senior Vice President of Enrollment Consulting at Echo Delta, Jeff serves as an on-campus advisor and training facilitator, providing analysis, insights, and generational research to help our clients showcase themselves with authenticity and transparency. Outside of his agency responsibilities, Jeff remains an active thought leader in the higher education space and regularly commands speaking engagements at workshops and conferences nationwide. - - - -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 AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com.

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!