Podcasts about generation ai

In this technical deep-dive episode, Generation AI hosts Ardis Kadiu and Dr. JC Bonilla unpack Andre Karpathy's groundbreaking keynote on "Software 3.0" - the third revolution in how we tell computers what to do. They explore how we've moved from writing explicit code (Software 1.0) through neural networks (Software 2.0) to programming in plain English with LLMs (Software 3.0). The discussion reveals why LLMs represent a new computing paradigm comparable to the shift from mainframes to personal computers, and why Karpathy believes we're still in the "1960s era" of this revolution. Most importantly, they examine the massive opportunities this creates - from rebuilding infrastructure to creating agent-first applications - and why every software company needs to adapt or risk disruption. Whether you're a developer, entrepreneur, or education professional, this episode provides essential insights into the decade-long transformation ahead.Introduction and Context Setting (00:00:07)Decision to do a "geeky episode" after last week's personal discussionIntroduction to Andre Karpathy's Y Combinator keynote "Software is Evolving Again"Karpathy's background: Tesla self-driving, OpenAI co-founderSetting up the framework for understanding software evolutionSoftware 1.0: The Era of Explicit Instructions (00:03:55)Timeline: 1950s to 2010sProgramming with explicit instructions in languages like Python, C, COBOLDeterministic and predictable behaviorExample: Writing functions to classify spam emails with specific keywordsHow traditional developers were trained in this paradigmSoftware 2.0: Neural Networks as Programs (00:04:59)Timeline: 2010s to 2020sPrograms written as neural network weights instead of codeHumans become data curators rather than code writersTraining as the new form of "compiling" programsExample: Training neural networks on billions of emails for spam detectionThe shift from deterministic to probabilistic programmingSoftware 3.0: Natural Language Programming (00:07:00)Timeline: 2020s onwardProgramming in English through promptingLLMs as programmable computersEveryone becomes a programmerExample: Simply asking an LLM to "classify this email as spam or not"The democratization of programmingLLMs as the New Operating System (00:10:26)Three perspectives: utilities, fabrication plants, and operating systemsLLMs as utilities: like electricity, metered access, high reliabilityLLMs as fabs: enormous capital requirements, deep technical secretsLLMs as OS: new computing platform with CPU (LLM) and RAM (context window)Comparison to 1960s mainframe era - centralized, expensive computingThe Missing GUI for Intelligence (00:15:35)Current state: still in the "terminal phase" of AI computingNo graphical user interface for intelligence yetDiscussion on whether we'll skip to voice or need visual interfacesImportance of visual bandwidth for human information processingThe need for discoverability in interfacesDigital Spirits and AI Limitations (00:20:58)Karpathy's concept of LLMs as "people spirits"Superhuman abilities: perfect memory, instant processingCritical limitations: hallucinations, no long-term memoryThe "50 First Dates" problem - digital amnesiaJagged intelligence: superhuman at some tasks, terrible at othersExample: LLMs struggling with simple number comparisons (9.11 vs 9.9)Building Software 3.0 Applications (00:24:01)Four key features: context management, multi-LLM orchestration, application-specific GUIs, autonomy sliderThe cursor model as an exampleManaging complexity while making it simple for usersThe importance of the autonomy slider for user controlAI Agents and the Decade-Long Transition (00:27:42)"Agents are overrated" - not the year but the decade of agentsThe Iron Man suit analogy: augmentation vs replacementHuman-in-the-loop considerationsTesla Autopilot example: 10 years later, still not fully autonomousManaging expectations for the pace of changeVibe Coding Success Story (00:34:06)Real-world example from Engage conference presentationCIO builds prototype in 2 hours using LovableWeb-accessible syllabus database projectDramatic reduction in time and resources neededThe power of Software 3.0 for non-programmersInfrastructure Opportunities and Challenges (00:37:53)Three types of digital information consumers: humans, programs, AI agentsNeed for AI-accessible interfaces (LLM.txt files)Building infrastructure for agent consumptionMCP protocol for agent communicationThe massive rebuild opportunity for entrepreneursEducational Implications (00:39:12)Shift from information scarcity to abundanceKarpathy's approach: keeping student and teacher separate but working on same artifactNew skills needed: prompt engineering, context engineeringMoving from memorizing algorithms to understanding applicationDebugging AI reasoning vs debugging codeTraditional SaaS Transformation (00:47:19)The autonomy retrofit challengeDesigning UIs for both humans and agentsNeed for AI-accessible equivalents for every actionRisk of disruption from AI-first competitorsQuestions about human supervision and controlAction Items for Different Audiences (00:51:18)Developers: Learn all three paradigms, build partial autonomy, focus on human oversightEntrepreneurs: Identify migration opportunities, build infrastructure, design with autonomy sliderEveryone else: Start vibe coding, understand decade-long transition, develop human-AI collaboration skillsThe importance of starting now despite the long transition aheadClosing Thoughts and Call to Action (00:56:47)Karpathy's quote on the amazing opportunity aheadThe quest for autonomy and the 3.0 movementBeing part of a revolution in real-timeNeed for builders, thinkers, and creators in this new era - - - -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 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

Thinking about AI brings back the old drinking-from-a-firehose analogy. But podcast guest Matt Britton, who's just published "Generation AI," has a simple suggestion. Corey & Gordon seize on a single word from the interview that sums what needs to STOP if we want to unlock the potential of AI. Britton's book can be accessed at https://generationai.bot/Stay in the loop with all things Borrell when you join our Research Alert Lists. As always, thank you for listening. If you like the episode, leave us a review!  Want to join the conversation? Share your comments at borrellassociates.com/podcast.

In this special episode of Generation AI, Ardis announces a major milestone: after nearly a decade of leading Element451 as Founder and CEO, he's stepping away from the CEO role and returning to what he loves most—building. Recorded just after the big reveal at Engage Summit 2025, Ardis and JC dive into the reasons behind this move, what it means for the future of Element451, and why this shift aligns perfectly with the intense AI talent wars reshaping the industry today.Opening: Major Leadership Announcement at Engage Summit 2025 (00:00:00)JC introduces the special nature of this episodeAnnouncement that Ardis Kadiu is stepping down as CEO of Element451Context of the announcement made at Engage Summit with 600+ attendeesTransition to board member role while continuing to guide company visionThe Timing and Reasoning Behind the Transition (00:03:12)Element451's evolution from scrappy startup to industry-leading scale-upPlatform transformation into an AI workforce platformStrong team and customer momentum as indicators for transitionArdis's identity as a builder at heart wanting to return to startup modeCEO vs Board Member: Defining the New Role (00:05:43)Differences between hands-on CEO involvement and strategic board guidanceFocus shift from operations to product and innovation visionNo disruption to Element's mission or customer experienceBusiness continuity with added resources from PSG investmentCompany Culture and DNA Beyond Leadership (00:10:19)Discussion of Element's "no BS" cultureCulture defined by people, not just leadershipConfidence in team's ability to maintain company valuesThe importance of hiring good people who fit the missionThe AI Talent Wars and Market Dynamics (00:14:39)Meta forming super intelligence team by poaching from OpenAIDiscussion of $100 million compensation packages for top AI talentSam Altman's "mercenaries vs missionaries" positioningExamples like Cursor successfully recruiting from AnthropicBuilding in the AI Era: Opportunities and Acceleration (00:26:08)Small teams achieving massive scale with AI-first approachesLower barriers to entry for new companiesThe compound effect of AI expertise and experimentationCapital actively seeking AI talent and ideasReflections on the Entrepreneurial Journey (00:33:14)Lessons from building three previous companiesThe importance of network, connections, and accumulated knowledgeHow each venture accelerates the learning curvePlans to continue sharing the journey on the podcastHigher Education's True Value and Mission (00:40:05)Education as more than knowledge transfer - it's about communityPersonal story of how NYU connections led to Element451The rewarding nature of building for higher educationAdvice for ed tech builders to stay connected to the mission - - - -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 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

Shop Talk welcomes author and AI Expert Matt Britton to the show. Matt's latest book, Generation AI, explores how AI will change the workforce forever. Caught My Eye looks at the popularity of claw vending machines in Houston and the practice of perfuming ancient Greek and Roman statues. Our Business Birthday celebrates René Lacoste who was the creator of the Lacoste Polo Shirt while he was a French tennis champion. We're all business. Except when we're not. Apple Podcasts: apple.co/1WwDBrC Spotify: spoti.fi/2pC19B1 iHeart Radio: bit.ly/4aza5LW YouTube Music: bit.ly/43T8Y81 Pandora: pdora.co/2pEfctj YouTube: bit.ly/1spAF5a Also follow Tim and John on: Facebook: www.facebook.com/focusgroupradio

In this special episode recorded at Engage 2025, Generation AI hosts Ardis Kadiu and Dr. JC Bonilla sit down with Dr. Tracy Brundage, President of ABAC in Georgia, for a candid conversation about the real challenges of AI transformation in higher education. Moving beyond the typical efficiency metrics, they explore what it truly means to be "AI powered, people focused" and why incremental change isn't enough anymore. The discussion reveals that the biggest obstacles aren't technological—they're human, cultural, and structural. With students arriving on campus after years of ChatGPT use in high school, the panel examines how institutions must fundamentally rethink their approach to education, moving from delivering more software features to providing AI teammates that actually get used. This conversation offers practical insights for leaders struggling to balance rapid technological change with the timeless mission of creating belonging and connection for students.Opening: The State of AI in Higher Education (00:00:08)Closing session from Engage 2025 conference in CharlotteTheme: "AI powered, people focused" frames every conversationAI becoming foundation of campus services, not just an add-onPanel explores obstacles and transformation challengesThe Exponential vs. Incremental Problem (00:03:31)Artists identifies gap between incremental desires and exponential needsPeople asking for efficiency gains while missing bigger transformation questionsOld ways of thinking blocking adoption of transformative approachesNeed to change internally to make things better for studentsBeyond Technology: The Real Barriers (00:06:06)Tracy identifies culture, systems, and structure as main obstacles"Sometimes less is less" - the problem of wearing too many hatsStudents arriving with 4 years of ChatGPT experience from high schoolChallenge of evolving academic integrity in digital ageThe 93% Problem: Unused Features (00:08:14)Across industries, 93% of software features go unusedAdding more features increases anxiety rather than solving problemsElement451 shifting from features to AI agents that handle entire workflowsFocus on delivering teammates, not toolsAI as a Unifying Force (00:09:22)Discussion of AI breaking down traditional silosABAC bringing admissions and alumni into same officeAI accelerating organizational transformationChange management as the critical factor, not technologyMeasuring What Matters: Student Experience (00:13:04)Moving beyond efficiency metrics like hours savedStudent belonging and connection as key success indicatorsWhy higher ed lacks customer satisfaction scores for studentsAI exposing existing cracks in educational systemsThe Unknown Future of Work and Education (00:17:19)Preparing students for jobs that don't exist yetLegacy programs may not offer viable career pathways20% chance AI development goes wrong, 80% chance for abundanceBuilding for next 6 months while future remains uncertainClosing Wisdom and North Star Advice (00:21:14)Tracy: "Design with empathy, lead with curiosity, never lose sight of the student"Artists: Everyone is figuring it out together, no true experts existStart where you are and keep building incrementallyJC: "Be a manager of AI and leader of people" - - - -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 next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com. Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

In this episode of Generation AI, hosts JC Bonilla and Ardis Kadiu explore what it means to build truly AI-native organizations. Fresh from a CEO conference, Ardis shares critical insights about how AI-first companies are fundamentally different from traditional SaaS businesses. They break down the major AI news of the week, including OpenAI's milestone of hitting $10 billion in annual revenue, their 80% price drop on the O3 Pro model, Meta's strategic acquisition of Scale AI, and Apple's continued struggles with AI integration at WWDC. The discussion focuses on why legacy companies face serious headwinds while AI-native organizations achieve non-linear growth through speed and efficiency. This episode is essential listening for higher education leaders who need to understand how AI transformation goes beyond adding chatbots - it requires rethinking your entire operational model and organizational culture.Recent AI News Roundup (00:00:32)OpenAI reaches $10 billion annual recurring revenue milestoneO3 Pro model pricing drops 80% while delivering superior reasoning capabilitiesMeta's strategic acquisition of Scale AI to accelerate path to AGIApple's disappointing WWDC showing with continued AI integration delaysDefining AI-Native Organizations (00:13:37)AI-native as organizational fabric, not a checkbox featureEvery process designed assuming AI is always on and learningFundamental difference from traditional SaaS companies adding AI wrappersThe journey from SaaS to cloud to AI-first to AI-nativeTraditional SaaS Company Headwinds (00:18:07)Linear scaling model requiring more humans for growthIncreasing customer acquisition costs in saturated marketsLegacy code bases preventing rapid AI integration"This is how we've always done it" mentality blocking transformationAI-Native Company Advantages (00:26:19)Non-linear growth with minimal headcount (Cursor's 500M ARR example)Speed as the primary competitive moatReduced dependency on human resources for scalingBuilt-in agility enabling faster product innovation and iterationBeyond Insights to Action (00:31:45)Moving from dashboards to prescriptive actionsAI telling you what to do next, then doing it for youConsumer expectations shaped by Amazon-like experiences and ChatGPT interactionsAnchoring effect making static solutions appear outdatedOrganizational Transformation Requirements (00:36:26)AI literacy must be distributed across entire organization, not siloedAvoiding two-class employee systems that create culture clashesIndividual responsibility to seek AI-forward organizationsDaily compounding effect approach rather than overnight transformationCultural and Human Factors (00:39:33)Leadership must model AI-first behavior dailyGradient approach to transformation with consistent progressEmployee upskilling essential for career viabilityOrganizational DNA change required for true AI-native status - - - -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 next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com. Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

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A daily Chronicle of AI Innovations in June 2025: June 13thRead Online | Sign Up | Advertise | AI Builder's ToolkitHello AI Unraveled Listeners,In today's AI Daily News,

In this eye-opening episode of Generation AI, hosts Ardis Kadiu and JC Bonilla tackle the harsh reality facing the Class of 2025 - the first graduating class in human history competing directly with AI for entry-level jobs. With college graduate unemployment hitting 6% (exceeding the national average for the first time in 45 years), they explore how AI is fundamentally reshaping the job market. The hosts analyze reports from CBS News and SignalFire, discuss Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei's stark prediction of 20% unemployment, and offer practical advice for new grads navigating this unprecedented shift. This episode is essential listening for students, parents, educators, and anyone concerned about how AI is transforming the path from education to employment.The First Generation Competing with AI (00:00:00)Setting up the paradox: greatest productivity explosion yet most uncertain future for graduatesEvery generation gets a defining technology - this one gets AI4 million Americans graduating into the tightest labor market competing with AIUnprecedented Graduate Unemployment Crisis (00:05:52)College graduate unemployment hits 6% vs 4.2% national averageFirst time in 45 years graduates face higher unemployment than general populationAverage student loan debt of $37,000 creating impossible catch-22Entry-level positions requiring 3-5 years experienceTech Industry Restructuring and Entry-Level Freeze (00:10:20)Microsoft, Google, Meta, Amazon freezing entry-level programming positionsTech companies posting record profits while eliminating junior rolesTech as historic engine of economic mobility now stallingParents questioning if STEM degrees still matterDario Amodei's 20% Unemployment Warning (00:19:51)Anthropic CEO predicts unemployment rivaling Great Depression80% of code to be written by AI within two yearsDiscussion of hyperbole vs reality in AI predictionsGDP growth implications and historical contextAll In Podcast Insights: New Grads as "Autocomplete of the Past" (00:25:00)Chamath's analogy: new grads were human autocomplete, AI does it betterYoung + AI-native = hireable vs old + resistant = obsoleteSolution: start companies, join startups, or get left behindEvery revolution creates more than it destroysUniversities at a Crossroads (00:28:48)Education as expensive trap vs great equalizer debateCurriculum development pressure and credential inflationUniversities' slow response but emphasis on critical thinkingAlternative paths (bootcamps, certificates) under pressurePractical Advice for New Graduates (00:34:22)Double down on becoming AI-native - use every tool, automate everythingSkip Fortune 500s - target Series A startups or start your ownEmbrace controlled chaos - job security is dead, adaptability is keyFind human + AI roles, not human vs AI positionsInterview question tip: ask how they use AI personallyThe Great Experiment with No Control Group (00:39:06)Running an unprecedented experiment on an entire generationClass of 2025: lost generation or first AI generation?Old path closing for students, revolution or irrelevance for educatorsEveryone must be an active participant, not passive observerIndustrial revolution parallels and being part of history - - - -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 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 thought-provoking episode of Generation AI, hosts Dr. JC Bonilla and Ardis Kadiu welcome special guest Michael McGetrick, a veteran educator and creative technologist, to explore how AI is transforming teaching and learning. They discuss the urgent question facing educators today: what is AI doing to student learning? The conversation examines how AI is exposing existing cracks in educational systems rather than breaking them, highlighting a "relevance crisis" rather than a "cheating crisis." From redesigning assessment methods to understanding how AI enhances skill-based learning, the hosts share research findings and personal experiences about the real impact of tools like ChatGPT in education, and how students and educators can adapt to this new reality that's already here.AI's Impact on Teaching and Learning Today (00:00:00)AI is exposing existing cracks in educational systems rather than breaking themIntroduction to the urgent questions facing educators, parents, and technologistsThe shift from AI as the future of education to AI as the present realityIntroduction to Mike McGetrick and His Course (00:02:23)Mike McGetrick joins as a guest expert - principal at Spark451, veteran educator, and creative technologistThe hosts establish their educational backgrounds and experiencesMike shares his experience teaching a generative AI course at Brooklyn CollegeDesigning a Curriculum for Generative AI (00:05:27)How Mike approached creating a curriculum from scratch for teaching AI in designBalancing traditional design principles with new AI toolsThe importance of building a foundation of knowledge while integrating AI toolsThe Time-to-Value Shift in Learning (00:07:48)Students can now apply principles in minutes rather than over weeksHow immediate application affects the learning processTeaching students to think about design elements as "data features" for promptsThe "Cheating" Controversy in Education (00:12:25)Discussion of the viral New York Magazine article about students using AIThe concept of "cheating" versus utilizing available toolsHow traditional assessment methods are becoming outdatedRedefining Learning Through Outcomes (00:17:52)Focus on quality of output rather than effort or "the grind"The balance between mental health concerns and educational standardsThe importance of learning through struggle and growthThe Relevance Crisis in Higher Education (00:27:59)AI didn't break education - it exposed how outdated it already wasThe need for education to adapt to modern skills and outcomesHow higher education needs to evolve to remain relevantResearch Findings on AI's Impact on Learning (00:29:23)Discussion of 51 studies on ChatGPT's effect on learningLearning performance shows significant improvement with AI after 4-8 weeksModerate effects on concept learning and higher-order thinkingAI as Coach Rather Than Answer Provider (00:36:54)The importance of using AI as a thinking partnerConcern about students not building foundational knowledgeThe need to teach students about their own learning processAI in the Workforce (00:40:59)The growing emphasis on AI skills in the workplaceCEOs requiring employees to use AI as part of their jobsDebate on whether specialists or generalists will thrive in an AI-driven workplaceClosing Thoughts: A Path Forward (00:49:17)Suggestion for a new course on "My Learning Journey" to help students understand how learning happensUnderstanding the learning process as crucial for deciding how to use AI effectivelyThe transformation of education and embracing the changes ahead - - - -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 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

Is your business ready for the age of AI, hyper-personalized content, and digital transformation?Matt Britton is the CEO of Suzy, a real-time consumer insights platform trusted by global giants like Netflix and P&G. He's also the author of Generation AI, a powerful new book exploring how Generation Alpha is the first truly AI-native generation—and what that means for brands, leaders, and innovators.In this episode, Matt unpacks how AI is transforming marketing, content creation, SEO, and influence. He shares real strategies businesses can use to train custom GPTs, build first-party data systems, and use automation to reclaim time and increase impact.You'll also learn how the influencer economy is evolving with AI-generated personas, what the future of search looks like, and how companies can futureproof their people and processes in a world changing at exponential speed.In this conversation, you'll learn:Why the future of marketing belongs to AI-native generations.How first-party data and automation are redefining business operations.Why companies must embrace AI now or risk extinction.How AI influencers and digital twins are reshaping culture and media.How to build search-optimized, relevant content that AI models rank.The role of internal training and curiosity in adapting to AI.What Google's search drop signals for your brand strategy.Why building authority, relevance, and video content is key in the LLM era.Takeaways:Why businesses must move now to integrate AI or risk falling behind.How to train custom GPTs using first-party and third-party data.What the future of content, SEO, and influencer marketing looks like in an AI-dominated world.Connect with Matt Britton:Website: https://mattbritton.com/Book: https://a.co/d/0UEMYxRTimestamps:00:00 - Intro: AI's rapid disruption01:00 - Why companies aren't adapting fast enough03:00 - Small vs. large business AI adoption06:00 - Training GPTs with your own data08:30 - Automating your operations with AI10:00 - Building custom frameworks in ChatGPT12:00 - AI's impact on SEO and the fall of Google15:00 - Content strategy for AI-powered search18:00 - The rise of AI influencers and virtual IP22:00 - The future of jobs and creativity in AI23:00 - About Generation AI__________________________________________________________________________________________

In this insightful episode of Generation AI, hosts Ardis Kadiu and JC Bonilla tackle Model Context Protocol (MCP), a new standardization that's gaining rapid adoption across the AI industry. They explain how MCP functions as a universal adapter between AI models and data sources, solving the "Frankenstein middleware" problem that makes building AI agents so complex today. The hosts break down why this matters for higher education professionals, how it reduces hallucinations by improving data access, and why major players like OpenAI, Google, and HubSpot are already implementing it. This episode offers critical insight into how standardization will make AI tools more useful and less complex for everyone.What is Model Context Protocol (MCP)? (00:01:00)Introduction to MCP as a standardization protocol for AI agentsHosts explain MCP as a way to help AI access context and dataThe "three-legged stool" of AI agents: intelligence, context, and actionMCP provides the standard for how agents communicate with data sourcesMCP as the Universal AI Adapter (00:04:42)JC compares MCP to standardized protocols like TCP/IP and USB-CMCP sits between models like Claude or Gemini and various data sourcesIt eliminates the need for custom connectors between each tool and AI modelThe protocol's simplicity as a minimal viable product (MVP) is key to its successHow MCP Works (00:07:03)MCP is a protocol, not an API, that describes format and flow"Discovery first" approach where AI asks "what can you do?"Uses JSON format for tools and data exchangeWorks both locally and remotely over HTTPThe Technical Benefits of MCP (00:13:14)Solves the "m by n headache" of needing separate connectors for each model-tool pairReduces hallucinations by providing AI with reliable data sourcesGives AI models access to specialized tools for tasks they struggle withEnables "grounding" in real data rather than making things upIndustry Adoption and Momentum (00:17:14)OpenAI, Google, HubSpot, LangChain and others already implementing MCPHubSpot's beta MCP server allows for direct CRM data access in ClaudeGrowing availability for tools like Slack, Teams, and ZapierDiscussion of how MCP layers on top of existing APIsPractical Applications (00:20:36)Higher education examples: connecting LMS, advisor notes, financial aid systemsSales use case: AI agents accessing CRM data through MCP for follow-upsDevOps: AI monitoring logs, creating tickets, and managing communicationAnalytics: Connecting data sources, models, and reporting tools seamlesslyChallenges and Considerations (00:23:17)MCP requires widespread adoption to be truly effectiveProduct teams must be convinced to implement it alongside existing APIsPossibility that another protocol might eventually win outCurrent technical hurdles for implementation that are being addressedCall to Action for Listeners (00:26:03)Experiment with MCP servers that connect to Claude desktopFor AI product builders: write MCP servers for your applications nowAsk AI vendors: "Do you speak MCP?" as a signal of cutting-edge capabilityMCP as the new standard, comparable to asking "Do you have an API?"Conclusion: The Future of AI Integration (00:29:14)MCP's architectural implications for more open, modular AI systemsThe need for agents to speak a common language across platformsInvitation for listeners to share which workflows they'll connect once MCP goes mainstream - - - -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 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 episode of The Speed of Culture live from Possible 2025, Suzy Founder & CEO Matt Britton joins 3C Ventures' Michael Kassan to discuss themes from his new book, Generation AI. Together, they explore the rise of Gen Alpha, the future of work, and how brands can adapt to an AI-powered consumer culture.Follow Suzy on Twitter: @AskSuzyBizFollow Matt Britton on LinkedInFollow Michael Kassan on LinkedInSubscribe to The Speed of Culture on your favorite podcast platform.And if you have a question or suggestions for the show, send us an email at suzy@suzy.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, The Speed of Culture presents a special episode featuring Matt Britton in the guest seat with On_Discourse's Toby Daniels. Matt discusses his new book Generation AI, diving deep into how AI is shaping childhood, education, identity—and the future of work. From parenting in the age of machine learning to how brands must evolve to stay relevant, this conversation offers a raw, personal, and future-forward take on what it means to grow up—and lead—in a world run by algorithms.Follow Suzy on Twitter: @AskSuzyBizFollow Matt Britton on LinkedInSubscribe to The Speed of Culture on your favorite podcast platform.And if you have a question or suggestions for the show, send us an email at suzy@suzy.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Generation AI, hosts JC Bonilla and Ardis Kadiu examine the growing phenomenon of "vibe coding" - a new AI-powered approach to software development that allows anyone to create functional applications by simply describing what they want in natural language. They discuss how tools like Lovable, Cursor, and Replit are making it possible to build complex, multi-file projects in minutes without writing a single line of code. Through live demonstrations, they show how this technology is making software development accessible to non-programmers while also exploring the potential impacts, benefits, and risks for higher education institutions.Introduction to Vibe Coding (00:00:06)Definition of vibe coding as a new paradigm in software developmentHow developers can create applications through natural language promptsOrigins in February 2023 with Andrew Karpathy's tweet about this approachThe paradigm shift from traditional coding to conversation-based developmentThe Evolution of Vibe Coding Tools (00:04:03)The meaning behind the term "vibe" - describing the output and guiding the processHow vibe coding differs from AI code assistantsOverview of leading tools including Cursor, Lovable, Replit, and Claude ArtifactsThe rapid growth of companies like Cursor (reaching $300 million in revenue)How Vibe Coding Works in Practice (00:10:31)The workflow: describe what you want, AI generates code, review, refineDemonstration of multifile project capabilitiesHow developers at Element451 are incorporating these toolsBuilding integrations without needing to understand APIs in detailLive Demonstration of Vibe Coding (00:22:10)Showcase of a compound improvement calculator built with LovableDemonstration of an AI agent demo landing page created in minutesCreation of a task management app for McDonald's employees with bonus trackingHow tools handle authentication, camera integration, and user managementThe Technical Aspects and Limitations (00:32:17)How the tools handle publishing and hosting applicationsIntegration with databases through services like SupabaseThe iterative refinement process when errors occurNew features allowing fine-grained control over componentsImplications for Higher Education (00:36:43)How non-technical staff at universities could build their own applicationsPotential for rapid prototyping of student-facing toolsExamples like grade appeal chatbots or orientation sign-up systemsOpportunities for micro-apps to solve specific campus problemsRisks and Challenges (00:41:14)Potential security and privacy concerns with generated codeMaintenance challenges for vibe-coded applicationsQuestions about ownership and governance of applicationsThe concept of "disposable software" that's cheaper to rebuild than maintainFuture Outlook and Getting Started (00:47:28)The expansion of "vibe" approaches to other domains like marketingRecommendations for experimenting with tools like LovableThe importance of human review for securityEncouraging safe experimentation with these accessible tools - - - -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 next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com. Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

In this episode of Generation AI, hosts JC Bonilla and Ardis Kadiu discuss recent significant AI developments across education, entertainment, and technology. They analyze President Trump's executive order on AI education for K-12 schools, which challenges the "cheating narrative" and aims to promote AI literacy. They also examine the Academy Awards' decision to accept AI-assisted films for consideration. The hosts then dive deep into OpenAI's new O3 model, exploring how its multimodal reasoning capabilities allow it to process text, images, and code in unified ways that mimic human thinking. The episode highlights practical applications for marketing, data analysis, and higher education enrollment strategies.Introduction and News Updates (00:00:00)Welcome to the Generation AI podcast focused on higher educationIntroduction of hosts JC Bonilla and Ardis KadiuOverview of the episode's main topics: executive order on AI education, Oscars' AI acceptance, and OpenAI's O3 modelExecutive Order on AI Education (00:03:04)President Trump signed an executive order on April 23rd promoting AI education for youthThe order creates a White House task force to oversee federal funding for AI literacyDiscussion on how this challenges the current trend of banning AI in 60% of US schoolsArdis shares personal experience of his children being afraid to use AI for educational purposesThe order aims to remove the "AI equals bad" mental block in studentsGlobal Competitiveness in AI Education (00:07:24)Debate on whether the US K-12 education system is globally competitiveDiscussion of inconsistencies in education quality across districts and statesComparison to other countries where students are actively building AI skillsNeed for improved AI literacy to maintain competitive advantageThe Academy Awards' AI Decision (00:08:56)The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has updated rules for the 98th OscarsFilms using generative AI tools are now eligible for awardsThe use of AI will neither help nor harm a film's chances of nominationHuman-driven artistry will remain the priority in judgingDiscussion of the film "The Brutalist" which used AI for accent enhancementSignificance of this as validation for AI in creative fieldsUpdates on Frontier AI Models (00:13:42)Brief mention of recent model releases from Google and GrokFocus on OpenAI's O3 as a "multimodal marvel" for reasoningThe race of AI development continues with focus on scalable agentsDiscussion of naming conventions for OpenAI modelsOpenAI's O3 Model Capabilities (00:16:20)O3 represents a departure from conversational chatbots toward visual thinkingThe model excels at coding, math, science, and visual reasoningIt processes text, images, and code in a unified reasoning frameworkVisual thinking capabilities comparable to human thinking processesDiscussion of performance improvements and acceleration in model capabilitiesThe companion O4 Mini model for lightweight real-time applicationsTesting O3 vs Other Models (00:25:28)JC and Ardis compare experiences using different OpenAI modelsComparison between O3 and GPT-4o outputs for the same promptO3's tendency to use tables and structured formats for certain outputsArdis recommends using O3 for coding, PDF analysis, and creative feedbackPractical Applications of O3 (00:30:34)Content creation capabilities for ad copy generationCampaign visual analysis through multimodal reasoningData analysis improvements for marketing datasetsBetter handling of unstructured tasks in higher educationStrategic data-driven approaches to enrollment managementDemo of creating visual ads with iterative refinements in minutesExample of financial analysis from complex spreadsheetsChatGPT Memory Feature Update (00:40:37)New feature allowing ChatGPT to use prior conversations as contextBenefits of the system remembering previous interactionsHow this enables personalization of AI responsesImpact on workflow efficiency and personalized assistanceConclusion (00:43:07)Final thoughts on AI integration into human activitiesClosing remarks and podcast network information - - - -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 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

“Organizations need to invest in not only the AI, but the change management that goes along with that AI to help bring people along.” -  Heather Jerrehian   In this episode of the People Dividend Podcast, host Mike Horne engages with Heather Jerahian, an entrepreneurial futurist and investor, discussing her extensive experience in scaling startups and leading AI initiatives. The conversation explores the future of work, the importance of authenticity in leadership, the challenges of management in a rapidly changing environment, and the critical role of technology in workforce management. Heather shares insights from her book 'Sale to Scale' and emphasizes the need for organizations to invest in AI and change management to navigate the evolving landscape of human resources.   Key Points: Responsible AI practices are necessary to ensure ethical use of technology. AI should be seen as an enabler for human work, not a replacement. Change management is key to successfully implementing AI solutions.   Links:  Learn more about Mike Horne on Linkedin Email Mike at mike@mike-horne.com Learn More About Executive and Organization Development with Mike Horne Twitter: https://twitter.com/mikehorneauthor  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikehorneauthor/,  LinkedIn Mike's Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/6867258581922799617/,  Schedule a Discovery Call with Mike: https://calendly.com/mikehorne/15-minute-discovery-call-with-mike     Learn More about Heather Jerrehian LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heatherjerrehian X: @jerrehian Website:  https://www.sailtoscale.com/  

In this eye-opening episode, Generation AI takes you inside the recent ASU+GSV Summit and AI Revolution Show in San Diego, where education and technology leaders gathered to address AI's impact on higher education. JC and Ardis break down how university presidents and tech executives are responding to what ASU leadership called an "AI Tsunami," sharing practical guidance on curriculum changes, institutional adaptation, and keeping humans at the center. The episode also examines the business side, analyzing how AI is driving EdTech consolidation, investment patterns, and market transformation. For anyone in higher education trying to make sense of AI's rapid changes, this episode provides both big-picture thinking and on-the-ground insights from those leading the charge.The AI Revolution Landscape in Higher Education (00:00:00)Overview of ASU+GSV Summit and AI Revolution Show in San DiegoThousands of leaders gathered to discuss AI's impact on higher educationCurrent challenges: declining public trust, cost pressures, value concernsASU leadership describes the situation as an "AI Tsunami" requiring quick adaptationKey Voices on Navigating the AI Era (00:02:30)C. Edward Watson (AAC&U) stressed that AI means major job change, not just lossWatson argues higher education must update curriculum now for AI literacyWarns against ineffective bans and detection tools, suggests adapting teaching methodsTed Mitchell (ACE) sees current disruption as a chance to build anewMitchell emphasizes student success metrics and institutional data ownershipPaul LeBlanc (Matter and Space) notes true innovation often comes from "unencumbered places"Views AI as both challenge and opportunity to rethink learning modelsStrategic Leadership in the AI Transition (00:08:45)Lev Gonick (ASU) highlights IT leaders' role in managing the AI transitionStresses maintaining human-centered approaches despite rapid changesSal Khan champions AI's potential to transform learning through personalized toolsMichael Hansen (Cengage) warns that higher education must integrate AI to stay relevantCommon thread: AI offers major potential but requires ethical frameworksThe Business of AI EdTech (00:15:20)Global education market worth over $7 trillionNo EdTech company has broken the $20 billion mark yetM&A market looks strong for 2025 with stabilizing interest ratesPrivate equity firms have record capital to invest, making EdTech attractiveMarket consolidation driven by both PE and strategic acquisitionsInvestment Trends in Education AI (00:22:15)Key distinction between infrastructure AI (big models) and applied AI (workflow tools)Applied AI attracting significant funding with clearer paths to profitsElement451's recent $175M investment cited as an exampleTools for operations, compliance, and personalized learning gaining valueInvestors backing smaller companies disrupting older solutionsChallenges include measuring true effectiveness when models change rapidlyLooking Ahead: The Future of AI in Higher Education (00:28:40)Successful AI integration requires both vision and market viabilityTension between rapid adoption and real-world barriers (faculty readiness, data gaps)Future focus areas include better data management and governanceGrowing demand for proof of effectiveness beyond initial hypeContinued investment expected in practical AI applicationsWorkforce alignment remains a dominant driver for AI adoptionOpen question: Can AI fulfill its promise to democratize education? - - - -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 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 insightful episode of Generation AI, hosts JC Bonilla and Ardis Kadiu speak with Lev Gonick, CIO of Arizona State University, about how AI is reshaping higher education technology systems. Gonick shares ASU's innovative approach to AI implementation, discussing their transition from fragmented "Frankenstein" tech systems to a more integrated architecture using AI agents. He explains how ASU is already deploying orchestrated AI agents across campus operations - from parking to financial aid to classroom instruction - and offers a practical vision for how universities can adapt to this technological shift. This conversation is essential listening for higher education professionals looking to understand how AI can transform student experiences and institutional operations.The Current State of University Technology Systems (00:00:25)Discussion of universities as technology "Frankensteins" with disconnected systemsGonick explains ASU's dual approach to AI: both as additional tools and as potential unifiersThe challenge of balancing pragmatic immediate needs with long-term integration goalsASU's outlook on technology focuses on opportunity and abundance rather than scarcityThe Timeline for Technology Transformation in Higher Education (00:02:14)Gonick suggests the transition away from fragmented systems could take "a generation or two"ASU positions itself as an outlier and model for what a "new American university" can look likeThe importance of proving what's possible by implementing future-focused solutions todayASU's commitment to focusing on "the future today" rather than waiting for perfect solutionsASU's Leadership in AI Implementation (00:03:45)Reference to ASU's publication documenting their AI journey with 40+ implementation storiesDiscussion of ASU's mindset that emphasizes growth and innovationGonick quotes Alan Kay: "If you want to predict the future, invent it"ASU's philosophy: "If you want to invent the future, start" - emphasizing action over debateAI's Transformation of Higher Education (00:05:33)Gonick argues AI represents a "tectonic shift" that will redefine not just how we teach but what we teachMany universities are stuck in an academic debate rather than testing and experimentingASU's approach involves real-world testing while adhering to principles of innovationThe need for agile, iterative approaches to AI implementation similar to software developmentThe Evolution from Generative AI to AI Agents (00:08:57)Reflection on the past year's progress from classroom-focused generative AI to agent-based systemsGonick suggests current generative AI implementations will eventually be seen as "prehistory"Discussion of how voice and video AI experiences may create economic value in educationThe emergence of "agentic" AI systems where multiple specialized agents work togetherASU's Current Work with AI Agents (00:11:35)ASU has developed approximately a dozen purpose-built AI agents for different functionsThese agents are now being orchestrated to work together rather than operating independentlyExamples include agents for syllabus creation, assessment, skills development, and career opportunitiesDiscussion of the need for "Centurion" agents to ensure privacy, security and ethical useAI Applications in Campus Operations (00:14:52)ASU is implementing agentic AI experiences in back-office operations like parking managementPlans for teaching and learning agent implementations starting in August for the new school yearDevelopment of pedagogy agents that support different teaching methods (Socratic, case method, etc.)Financial aid navigation as another major area where AI agents are improving student and family experiencesThe Digital Workforce and Organizational Change (00:20:49)Discussion of AI agents functioning as a "digital workforce" that requires managementThe need to rearchitect how work is done in university settingsHuman resistance to change as a major challenge in AI implementationASU's approach to helping employees transition to new roles through upskilling and reskilling programsThe Near Future of AI in Higher Education (00:24:47)Discussion of the impact of politics and regulations on AI implementationASU's view of challenges as opportunities and their focus on adaptabilityThe concept of building "anti-fragile" institutions that not only survive disruption but thriveThe importance of planning with a longer horizon while remaining agile - - - -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 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 information-packed episode of Generation AI, hosts JC Bonilla and Ardis Kadiu explore the revolutionary new ChatGPT image generation capabilities that have taken the internet by storm. They break down how this new native image generation differs from previous models, allowing users to create, modify and refine images through conversation. The hosts also cover significant recent AI developments including Google's Gemini 2.5 Pro, Anthropic's Model Context Protocol standard, and new educational initiatives from OpenAI and Claude. This episode gives higher education professionals critical insights into how these visual AI tools will transform marketing, teaching, and creative processes across campus. Recent AI Updates and Developments (00:00:06)Introduction to the episode and upcoming Element451 presence at ASU GSV conferenceBrief mention of new AI releases coming from Element451Overview of recent major AI developments that will be discussedMajor Model Drops and Advances (00:03:13)Google's release of Gemini 2.5 Pro, a powerful reasoning and thinking modelDiscussion of its 1,000,000 token context window and coding capabilitiesAnthropic's Model Context Protocol (MCP) as a new standard for AI model connectionsComparison to standardization moments like VHS/Betamax or USB connectivityHow MCP simplifies integration with external tools and APIsOpen Source Models and Coding Advancements (00:09:11)DeepSeek v3 launch continuing the open source momentumDiscussion of "vibe coding" and voice-based natural language programmingThe progression of open weights models (not fully open source)Google's Gemma 3, OpenAI's announced open weights model, and upcoming Llama 4How these models enable natural language "vibe coding" through better reasoningAI Education Initiatives (00:13:53)OpenAI Academy launch for teaching AI skills and prompting techniquesClaude for Education using Socratic methods to teach students how to learnFocus on pedagogy and learning rather than just providing answersImportance of AI literacy as models improveChatGPT Image Generation Revolution (00:18:06)Technical explanation of the new native image generation in GPT-4oHow it differs from previous DALL-E integration by generating images pixel by pixelThe ability to remember context and make incremental changes to imagesComparison to the creative sketch-to-masterpiece process in artImage Generation Examples and Capabilities (00:27:05)Transforming images into anime, Studio Ghibli style, or other artistic stylesImage restoration, sharpening, and enhancement capabilitiesConverting rough sketches into polished marketing materialsCreating consistent multi-panel comics or narrativesFashion coordination and outfit planning from wardrobe itemsInterior design applications by incorporating furniture pieces in roomsCreating travel journals and personalized visual memory booksPractical Applications in Education and Marketing (00:34:23)Educational uses for teachers creating customized visual aidsExplaining complex concepts through dynamic illustrations for different learning stylesMarketing prototyping and rapid campaign creationStoryboarding for entertainment and media productionProduct design acceleration and prototypingTransformative Impact Across Industries (00:37:51)Filters becoming experiences with style transformationsEasier creation of memes and visual communicationBooks and visual storytelling including children's booksImproved slide presentations with conceptual imagesPersonalizing stock photography with school colors and logosRemixing movie scenes in different stylesCreating personalized advertisements at scaleEnabling creatives to produce work faster and tell stories through visualsLearning at Scale Through Visual AI (00:41:46)How educators can use these tools to reach diverse learnersMaking complex concepts accessible through visual adaptationRemoving creative bottlenecks in educationFinal thoughts on the transformative potential of new vision models - - - -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 next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com. Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

In this episode of Generation AI, hosts Dr. JC Bonilla and Ardis Kadiu examine how AI can support—not replace—human decision-makers in college admissions. They discuss the growing challenge of application volume (with schools like NYU receiving 120,000 applications) against limited staff resources, creating bottlenecks where reviewers must evaluate hundreds of applications in tight timeframes. The hosts explain how AI tools can bring consistency to evaluation, remove human bias, and dramatically speed up document processing while maintaining quality. They outline specific AI applications in admissions including document verification, essay evaluation, and transcript analysis, emphasizing that the goal is to enhance human judgment rather than replace it.The Admissions Crunch: Record Application Numbers (00:00:57)NYU received 120,000 applications this year, the most for any private universityUniversity of Texas at Austin saw a 24% increase in applicationsUniversity of Washington experienced 57% growth over five yearsHarvard received 60,000 applications for just 2,000 spotsThe Human Workload Problem (00:02:46)Average public university has 60 new students per staff memberApplication-to-staff ratio can reach 600-650 for selective schoolsEach application takes 15-30 minutes to reviewStaff often have multiple responsibilities beyond application reviewThe Student Experience Impact (00:06:08)Long waiting times affect student decision-makingSpeed to response is critical for enrollment strategyReducing review time from 45 days to 24 hours can increase enrollmentEarly decisions are a competitive advantage for institutionsHow College Admissions Work (00:08:12)Holistic admissions evaluate academic achievement, personal statements, extracurricularsRolling admissions focus on meeting basic criteria with rapid turnaroundBoth processes involve significant manual reviewConsistency and speed are major challengesAI Advantages in the Admissions Process (00:11:24)Consistency and fairness through uniform evaluation standardsAI applies the same criteria consistently across all applicationsRemoves human bias that can affect evaluation outcomesMaintains evaluation standards even with reviewer fatigueAI Technology in Document Processing (00:14:54)Optical Character Recognition (OCR) digitizes documents efficientlyNatural Language Processing (NLP) analyzes qualitative aspects of applicationsMultimodal models like Gemini 2.0 extract data from documents accuratelyReasoning models can evaluate applications based on specific criteriaCurrent State of AI in Admissions (00:17:53)OCR technology for transcript scanning exists but is limitedSome schools use data extraction when loading information into CRMsFew comprehensive solutions integrate all aspects of AI evaluationTechnology is just becoming available for full-scale implementationTechnical Applications of AI in Admissions (00:19:17)Document verification automates checking for completeness and accuracyEssay evaluation can extract themes about student readinessCourse equivalency mapping connects courses across institutionsTranscript evaluation helps with transfer credits and placementAdmissions as a Rubric (00:25:37)Admissions decisions are based on measurable criteriaCriteria can be objective (in-state status) or subjective (leadership qualities)Digital application review transforms criteria into software evaluationsAI can work effectively with rubric-based evaluation systemsElement451's AI-Powered Admissions Approach (00:29:08)AI agent ingests institutional rubrics and evaluation criteriaSystem analyzes all submitted documents through data extractionProvides scores and reasoning for each evaluation criterionPlaces AI recommendation alongside human evaluationThe Future: Your First Read is Your Second Read (00:31:08)AI provides efficient, fair, consistent and scalable admissions processGoal is to enhance human judgment, not replace itRemoves human bias while maintaining quality evaluationFrees staff time for personal interaction with prospective students - - - -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 next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com. Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

In this episode of Generation AI, hosts JC Bonia and Ardis Kadiu explore the rapidly evolving landscape of personal AI agents. They analyze four types of agents - general task agents, researcher agents, workflow agents, and code generation agents - before diving into the recent sensation around Manus AI. The hosts discuss how AI agents are shifting from simple task execution to complex autonomous workflows, potentially transforming how work gets done across industries. The conversation highlights a critical turning point where AI can now operate with minimal human supervision, challenging previous assumptions about the "human in the loop" paradigm.Introduction to AI Agents and Recent Developments (00:00:00)JC and Ardis introduce the episode's focus on AI agentsBrief mention of Manus AI creating waves in the tech worldSetting the stage for understanding personal AI agents in 2025Discussion of how these agents will shape workflows and productivityThe Evolution of AI Agents (00:01:48)The shift from frontier models to foundational agent AIHow 2023 saw the emergence of autonomous personal agentsRequirements for agents: reasoning, adaptation, and action capabilitiesTime compression in AI development with DeepSeek and Grok 3Categories of Personal AI Agents (00:05:52)Four main types of agents identified by the hostsGeneral task agents for personal productivity and schedulingResearcher agents for deep knowledge gathering and synthesisWorkflow agents for orchestrating multi-step processesCode generation agents for software developmentDeep Research Agents in Action (00:09:41)Ardis shares how research agents have changed his workflowExamples of using AI for market research and data gatheringTools like Perplexity offering free research capabilitiesClaude and Gemini providing deep research featuresThe value of referenced, data-backed insights for decision makingWorkflow Agents: Connecting the Pieces (00:15:10)Explanation of how workflow agents orchestrate multiple processesZapier and Make.com for workflow automationRelevance for personalizationLindy.ai for Gmail integration and automationThe ability to mix and match between different LLMs for optimal resultsCode Generation Agents (00:18:00)The acceleration of AI code writing capabilitiesReference to Anthropic CEO's claim about AI writing 90% of code soonCursor and Anthropic Code Agent toolsLovable - no-code solution for building applicationsBolt as another code generation platformIntroduction to "vibe coding" - collaborating with AI on code without technical expertiseManus AI: A Game-Changing Personal Agent (00:24:45)Overview of what makes Manus different from previous agentsThe massive waitlist and $10,000 access codes showing huge demandHow Manus provides autonomous task execution with minimal human inputThe open-source alternative "Anus" created using Manus itselfThe ability to work continuously in the background and notify when completeThe Future of Work with Autonomous Agents (00:32:16)Implications for knowledge work and job rolesThe shift from "human in the loop" to "human as supervisor" modelsArdis acknowledging the difficulty in claiming AI won't replace certain rolesDiscussion about which jobs might remain relevant in the AI futureHow autonomous agents are changing organizational designClosing Thoughts on the AI Landscape (00:39:34)Reflection on how major AI releases create excitement and commercialization racesAnticipation of more autonomous agent solutions following ManusThe rapid pace of change in the AI spaceHow these tools will continue to democratize access to advanced capabilitiesExpectations for what might emerge in the coming months - - - -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 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 exciting episode of Generation AI, hosts Ardis Kadiu and Dr. JC Bonia examine the rapid evolution of voice AI agents and their impact on higher education. They spotlight Sesame, a new open-source voice model that crosses the "uncanny valley" with its remarkably human-like speech capabilities. The hosts demonstrate these advanced voice technologies live and discuss how they're already transforming student support services, enrollment management, and call centers. As voice becomes the primary interface for AI interaction, colleges must adapt to meet student expectations for 24/7 instant support while maintaining an authentic, empathetic experience.The Voice AI Revolution Arrives (00:00:00)Introduction to the rapidly evolving voice AI landscape in spring 2025Shift from text-based prompting to voice as the primary AI interfaceVoice modes now standard in major AI platforms (ChatGPT, Gemini, Perplexity)Growing prevalence of AI voice agents in customer service contextsIntroducing Sesame: Breaking the Internet (00:02:00)Overview of Sesame, an ultra-realistic, open-source AI voice modelHow Sesame differentiates from previous voice technologiesThe significance of its open-source MIT license for wider adoptionCrossing the "uncanny valley" with human-indistinguishable speechLive Demonstration with Maya (00:09:00)Interactive conversation with the Sesame voice model "Maya"Demonstrations of emotional range, empathy, and conversational realismRole-play examples showing versatility for higher education scenariosShowcasing natural pauses, breathing patterns, and emotional intelligenceTechnical Approaches to Voice AI (00:14:00)Comparison of different voice technology architecturesTraditional pipeline: Speech-to-Text → LLM processing → Text-to-SpeechNative voice models: direct voice-to-voice processingHow end-to-end approaches improve latency, accuracy, and emotional contextParallels to human language processing and bilingual thinkingVoice AI Providers and Implementation (00:18:00)Overview of key players in the voice AI market (11Labs, OpenAI, Meta)Recent announcements including Llama 4's voice capabilitiesBuilding voice agent systems that minimize latencyMulti-channel implementation strategies beyond traditional phone callsHigher Education Use Cases (00:25:00)Enrollment support with multilingual family communication24/7 student services that match student productivity patternsIntegration across multiple communication channelsVoice as a natural query interface on campusEnhancing accessibility while maintaining personalizationTransforming Call Centers (00:30:00)How voice AI is replacing traditional IVR phone treesBenefits of AI-powered routing without human limitationsCost-saving potential with AI handling 30-50% of callsEliminating wait times during peak periods like financial aid seasonParallel processing capabilities versus sequential human staffingBalancing Technology and Responsibility (00:38:00)Ethical considerations for voice AI implementationImportance of accurate information deliveryHow human staff can focus on more complex, high-value interactionsReal-world implementations at Johnson Community College and other institutionsLooking ahead to continued voice technology improvements - - - -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 next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com. Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

In this episode of Generation AI, hosts JC and Ardis tackle one of the most pressing concerns in higher education today: how to trust AI outputs. They explore the psychology of trust in technology, the evaluation frameworks used to measure AI accuracy, and how Retrieval Augmented Generation (RAG) helps ground AI responses in factual data. The conversation offers practical insights for higher education professionals who want to implement AI solutions but worry about accuracy and reliability. Listeners will learn how to evaluate AI systems, what questions to ask vendors, and why having public-facing content is crucial for effective AI implementation.Introduction: The Trust Challenge in AI (00:00:06)JC Bonilla and Ardis Kadiu introduce the topic of trusting AI outputsContrasting traditional predictive modeling metrics with new AI evaluation methodsUnderstanding that trust is both earned and lost through interactionsThe Psychology of Trust in AI (00:03:35)How human psychology frameworks for trust transfer to technologyChallenge appraisal (seeing AI as enhancement) versus threat appraisal (seeing AI as risky)Example: How autonomous driving shows trust being built or lost through micro-decisionsThe importance of making AI systems more predictable to humansEvaluating AI Outputs: The Evals Framework (00:11:41)Moving from traditional machine learning metrics to new evaluation methodsHow OpenAI Evals works as a standard for measuring AI performanceCreating test sets with thousands of variations to check AI outputsThe concept of "AI checking on AI" for more thorough evaluationElement451's achievement of 94-95% accuracy rates on their evaluationsRetrieval Augmented Generation (RAG) Explained (00:27:23)RAG as an "open book exam" approach for AI systemsHow data is processed, categorized, and made searchableThe importance of re-ranking information to find the most relevant contentHow multiple documents can be combined to create accurate answersAddressing Common AI Trust Concerns (00:33:31)Reducing hallucinations through proper grounding in source materialWhy "garbage in, garbage out" fears are often overblownUsing public-facing content as reliable data sourcesThe value of traceable sources in building confidence in AI responsesConclusion: Building Earned Trust (00:38:11)Trust in AI comes from reliability and transparencyThe importance of asking the right questions when selecting AI partnersHow to distinguish between companies just talking about AI versus implementing best practices - - - -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 next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com. Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

In this episode of Generation AI, Ardis Kadiu and Dr. JC Bonilla unpack FERPA—the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act—and its critical role in protecting student data within AI-driven educational tools. They clarify common misunderstandings around FERPA compliance, specifically addressing the handling of AI-powered student engagement platforms, chatbots, and data security practices. Learn how institutions can effectively utilize AI while safeguarding student privacy and maintaining compliance.Understanding FERPA Basics (00:00:07)Introduction of the topic based on questions from the AI Engagement SummitFERPA stands for Family Educational Rights and Privacy ActFederal law enacted in 1974 that protects privacy of student educational recordsApplies to institutions receiving US Department of Education fundingGrants students (or parents of minors) rights regarding their educational recordsWhat Constitutes Educational Records Under FERPA (00:07:33)Academic records including grades, transcripts, and course enrollmentPersonally identifiable information (PII) such as names, student IDs, birthdatesDisciplinary records and counseling informationFinancial aid and billing informationStudent communications with advisers, faculty, and staffInstitutions must maintain control and prevent unauthorized disclosureFERPA Compliance for Engagement Tools (00:08:52)Student data must remain protected from unauthorized accessInformation cannot be used for unintended purposes outside institutional contractsData must remain under the institution's control at all timesThe "school official exception" allows third-party vendors to access dataVendors must perform services the school would otherwise use its own staff forSchools must maintain direct control over records use and maintenanceVendor Contracts and FERPA Compliance (00:13:01)Contracts must clearly state vendors act as school officials bound by FERPAVendors cannot use student records outside the scope of their contractsInstitutions must retain full control over how student data is accessedImportance of granular access controls and role-based permissionsVendors should not use student data to train AI models without specific permissionData minimization principles should be followed in all AI processesData Security Requirements (00:15:51)Encryption requirements for data in transit and at restImportance of multifactor authenticationAccess logging to track who interacts with dataData deletion and retention policies must be clearly definedVendors should have clear procedures for data deletion after contract endsAudits and Compliance Monitoring (00:16:40)Vendors should comply with security and privacy standardsRegular security audits and compliance reviews by third partiesThe importance of SOC 2 Type 2 certification as the gold standardInstitutions' rights to conduct independent security auditsAI-Specific FERPA Concerns (00:18:50)Chatbots and AI assistants must follow proper verification protocolsAI-powered tools must adhere to role-based access permissionsRisks of using public AI tools like ChatGPT with student dataDirectory vs. non-directory information distinctionsThe dangers of uploading student data to non-FERPA compliant AI toolsAI Training and Data Use Risks (00:24:00)Many AI models store and use interactions for trainingRisks of unauthorized retention of student recordsImportance of checking data retention policies in AI toolsFree versions of AI tools typically don't offer data protection optionsPaid versions may have data retention turned on by defaultElement451's FERPA Compliance Approach (00:26:28)SOC 2 Type 2 compliance with third-party verificationData encryption in transit and at rest with additional field-level encryptionMultifactor authentication enforcementIdentity verification in AI chatbots before sharing any personal informationNo training on user data and anonymization of activity dataInstitution control over data deletion and visibility of all recordsAI inherits institutional security policies and access controlsClosing Thoughts (00:29:39)The importance of understanding FERPA in the AI contextBuilding trust through proper complianceAddressing misinformation around FERPA and AIInvitation for listeners to suggest future topics - - - -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 next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com. Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

In this episode of Generation AI, hosts Ardis Kadiu and JC Bonilla examine the groundbreaking impact of XAI's new Grok-3 model. Released just 60 days after Grok-2, this AI system is making waves by outperforming competitors in multiple categories, from coding to creative writing. The hosts explain why Grok-3's reasoning capabilities mark a significant shift in AI development, moving beyond simple chatbots toward truly autonomous agents. They explore how XAI achieved this rapid advancement in just 15 months and discuss what it means for consumers, businesses, and higher education as AI models become more powerful, more accessible, and more integrated into everyday tools.Catching Up and Conference Highlights (00:00:06)Hosts Ardis Kadiu and JC Bonilla catch up on recent activitiesJC shares his experience using AI as a running coachArdis discusses his presentation at the Achieving the Dream conferenceDiscussion of an emotional AI interaction that resonated with the audienceIntroduction to Grok-3 (00:05:00)Overview of Grok-3, the new AI model from XAI (Elon Musk's AI company)Explanation of XAI as a competitor to OpenAI, Anthropic, and GoogleDiscussion of how Grok-3 is "breaking the internet" with its capabilitiesOutline of the episode's focus on reasoning-based AI and its implicationsThe Rapid Acceleration of AI Development (00:07:16)Analysis of XAI's remarkable timeline: from startup to frontier model in 15 monthsComparison to OpenAI's 8-year development timelineDetails on Grok-3's training: 100,000+ NVIDIA H100 GPUs and 200 million GPU hoursDiscussion of how this speed of progress is reshaping the AI landscapeEvaluating Grok-3's Performance (00:12:39)Explanation of how Chatbot Arena provides real human evaluation of AI modelsGrok-3 achieved the highest score ever in Chatbot Arena (1403)Breakdown of categories where Grok-3 ranks #1: hard prompts, coding, math, creative writingArdis shares his personal experience using Grok-3What Makes Grok-3 Different (00:18:09)Explanation of "Big Brain Mode" and advanced reasoning capabilitiesDiscussion of real-time knowledge and Twitter/X integrationComparison with other models like GPT-4 and GeminiAnalysis of how its reasoning allows for self-correction and reduced hallucinationsStrategic Advantages of Grok-3 (00:23:37)Integration into Tesla vehicles and the X platformHow built-in access creates a direct user funnelDiscussion of the multimodal capabilities, including the new voice modeAnalysis of how these integrations give XAI unique advantages in the marketThe Path to Autonomous AI Agents (00:27:38)Why chatbots are just a stepping stone to autonomous AI agentsExplanation of how reasoning models break down problems into sub-stepsDiscussion of how this leads to more human-like thinking and problem-solvingThe "reason, adopt, and action" loop in advanced AI systemsReal-World Applications of Reasoning AI (00:30:15)Educational applications: complex problem solving and personalized learningResearch benefits: literature review, data analysis, and hypothesis generationDiscussion of real-time information access through X/Twitter integrationHow these models can save users hundreds of hours of workThe Competitive AI Landscape (00:33:29)Price comparison between OpenAI's ChatGPT Pro ($200/month) and Grok ($20/month)Mention of Perplexity's free deep search capabilitiesDiscussion of how competition is improving AI experiences for usersPredictions about accelerated timelines for GPT-5, Grok-4, and Gemini 3Implications for Higher Education and Consumers (00:38:10)How better reasoning models will lead to improved AI productsDiscussion of vertical-specific workflows being developedReduction in hallucinations making AI more reliable for critical tasksPromotion of Element451's AI Engaged Summit (February 25-26)Closing Thoughts (00:39:46)JC reflects on the need to try new AI tools rather than sticking with favoritesDiscussion of how rapid innovation affects consumer loyalty in AIEncouragement for listeners to provide feedback and engage with the podcastInformation about the Enrollify podcast network - - - -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 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

On this episode Doug speaks with Mitesh Agrawal the CEO of Positron.ai. Positron is advancing the world of AI hardware right here in the Biggest Little City, with their first product that provides 3X the performance of NVIDA at a lower cost. They discuss the changing landscape of AI, the importance of purpose built hardware and Positrons unique value. They discuss the Positron team, their investors and their success to date as well as dive in the future for them in our region.

Host: Vivian Hui, RN, BSN, PhD Guests: Bill Hersh, MD, FACMI, FAMIA Wendy Chapman, PhD; Jay Patel, BDS,MS, PhD Description: Recorded live at the 2024 AMIA Annual Symposium, join our experts on this episode as they explore the excitement and hesitancy of AI in healthcare.

Holmberg's Morning Sickness - Wednesday January 8, 2025 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Holmberg's Morning Sickness - Wednesday January 8, 2025 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Holmberg's Morning Sickness - Wednesday January 8, 2025 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Holmberg's Morning Sickness - Wednesday January 8, 2025 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the inaugural 2025 episode of The Higher Ed Pulse, hosts Mallory and Seth dive into the complex and urgent topic of ethics in artificial intelligence (AI) within higher education. They explore the challenges AI presents, such as data privacy, algorithmic bias, and over-reliance on automation, while discussing strategies to align AI usage with institutional missions. This thought-provoking episode is a must-listen for higher education professionals navigating the evolving landscape of AI ethics.Key TakeawaysAI Ethics as a Priority: Higher education must prioritize creating frameworks for ethical AI usage to align with institutional missions.Data Privacy Concerns: Transparency in how student data is collected, stored, and used is essential to build trust and avoid misuse.Bias in Algorithms: Institutions must proactively identify and address biases in AI systems to prevent perpetuating societal inequities.Human Oversight: Despite AI's capabilities, human context, empathy, and decision-making are irreplaceable in areas like financial aid and student support.Accessible AI Tools: Colleges should consider offering AI tools, such as ChatGPT Pro, to ensure equitable access for all students.AI Literacy and Training: Institutions should invest in professional development to empower staff, faculty, and students to use AI responsibly.What are the main ethical challenges of AI in higher education?Mallory and Seth highlight three primary concerns:Data Privacy: AI thrives on data, but students often remain unaware of how their data is used. Institutions must simplify communication about data usage to ensure transparency and trust.Algorithmic Bias: AI tools can inadvertently reinforce inequities if trained on biased data. Institutions need regular audits to identify and mitigate biases.Over-reliance on Automation: AI may lack the human nuance needed in situations like financial aid, where personalized solutions are vital. Human oversight remains critical.‍How can institutions develop frameworks for ethical AI?  Mallory advocates for cross-functional committees to establish fairness, transparency, and accountability in AI policies. Seth emphasizes the importance of aligning AI initiatives with institutional missions, a perspective often overlooked. Both stress the need for a proactive approach, much like crisis communications planning, to address potential AI-related issues before they arise.‍What role does access play in AI ethics? Seth raises concerns about unequal access to AI tools, which could create a divide between students with and without financial resources. He suggests that institutions consider providing AI tools, akin to software licenses for Adobe or Microsoft, to ensure equitable access and skill development.Why is AI literacy essential? The duo underscores the importance of investing in AI education for staff, faculty, and students. Building AI literacy equips educators to use the technology responsibly and aligns with institutional goals to prepare students for the modern workforce.What actionable steps can listeners take? Seth urges individuals to secure their seat at the AI decision-making table within their organizations. Mallory adds that fostering a culture of ethical inquiry and transparency will not only benefit institutions but also serve as a career accelerator for AI advocates. - - - -Connect With Our Co-Hosts:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaSeth Odell https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/https://twitter.com/sethodellAbout 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! Some of our favorites include Generation AI and Confessions of a Higher Education Social Media Manager.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

Feedback is at the heart of mentorship, and this episode dives into embracing constructive criticism, learning from mistakes, and understanding the power of “tough love.” It's about turning feedback into actionable steps for personal and professional growth—even when it's not easy to hear.Key TakeawaysFeedback Feels Personal: Feedback often feels like a critique of our identity, not just our work—especially as young professionals still finding their footing.Mindset Matters: Shifting from seeing feedback as "positive" or "negative" to viewing it as an opportunity for growth creates a healthier, more collaborative approach.Delivery is Key: Poorly delivered feedback can derail progress, while thoughtful critique builds trust and inspires improvement.Ask for Clarity: Confidence grows when you ask for clarity instead of assuming, ensuring feedback is actionable and meaningful.Delegation and Growth: Letting go of tasks isn't about giving up control—it's about creating space for team growth and focusing on higher priorities.Why Does Feedback Feel So Personal? Feedback can feel like a gut punch, especially early in your career when you're still establishing your identity in the professional world. Erin explains that feedback often feels more personal than it is because young professionals tend to conflate their work with their self-worth. Shelby emphasizes the need for a mindset shift, seeing feedback not as a critique of your person but as a tool for improvement. Together, they explore how balancing ambition with openness to critique helps build resilience.Is There a Right Way to Give and Receive Feedback? Feedback isn't just about the content; it's about the delivery. Erin highlights the importance of learning how to give feedback in a way that resonates, using techniques like the “compliment sandwich” to keep morale high. Shelby praises thoughtful feedback that's constructive rather than critical, emphasizing the power of collaboration. By fostering a team environment where feedback feels like a partnership, it becomes less about judgment and more about mutual growth.What If We Stopped Labeling Feedback as Positive or Negative? Erin introduces the concept of removing labels from feedback entirely, treating it as neutral data for growth. When we label feedback, we often let emotions dictate how we process it, which can hinder progress. Shelby adds that collaboration thrives when feedback is stripped of emotional labels, leading to better solutions and shared success. This subtle but impactful mental shift can make feedback feel like an empowering opportunity rather than a dreaded critique.How Can Feedback Improve Team Dynamics? Shelby and Erin share personal stories about how feedback has shaped their growth. Shelby recalls her early days writing blog posts for Enrollify, initially overwhelmed by critique but eventually transforming her skills with practice and guidance. Erin talks about learning to delegate, a lesson in trust that helped her grow as a leader. Both agree that thoughtful feedback creates space for team members to shine and grow, strengthening team dynamics.What's the Key to Maintaining Confidence Amid Critique? Maintaining confidence in the face of tough feedback is a balancing act. Shelby stresses the importance of stepping back, reminding yourself that everyone—at all levels—receives feedback. Erin advises focusing on clarity by asking questions to ensure you truly understand the critique. By treating feedback as actionable advice rather than a judgment of worth, you can build resilience and confidence over time. - - - -Connect With Our Co-Hosts:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaSeth Odell https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/https://twitter.com/sethodellAbout 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! Some of our favorites include Generation AI and Confessions of a Higher Education Social Media Manager.Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

In this episode, Jeremy and Ken Anselment talk through a variety of common situations that many leaders face each year - including retaining staff, micromanaging, giving constructive criticism, and navigating the transition from being a colleague to being someone's boss. They also unpack why so many leaders continue to deal with imposter syndrome.Guest Name: Ken Anselment, Vice President for Enrollment Management, RHBGuest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kenanselment/Guest Bio: 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. Ken's background in higher ed enrollment spans nearly three decades, beginning at his alma mater, Marquette University. He's also the host of The Admissions Leadership Podcast, and recently self published a book titled ‘Climbing the Admissions Leadership Peak: Lessons from the ALP.' - - - -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! Some of our favorites include Generation AI and The Application with Allison Turcio.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

Today's inductee into the 2024 Enrollify Hall of Fame is Tina Miller, Executive Director of Creative and Communications at Arizona State University's Enterprise Technology. A trailblazer in AI-driven innovation, Tina has been instrumental in integrating advanced technologies into higher education. From fostering AI literacy to launching impactful ChatGPT initiatives, Tina shares how ASU is redefining the role of technology in student success and workplace efficiency.Check out the full episodes Tina appeared on: AI For U - Episode 7AI For U - Bonus Live at HighEdWebHigher Ed Pulse - Bonus Live at AMAKey TakeawaysAI Enhances Human Connection: Technology is a tool to improve processes and engagement, not a replacement for human creativity and oversight.AI Literacy is Essential: Leaders and teams must prioritize AI education to stay ahead in the evolving tech landscape.Strategic Implementation of AI: Projects like ASU's innovation challenges demonstrate the tangible benefits of integrating AI into teaching, research, and operations.How is AI Transforming Higher Ed at ASU? Tina Miller highlights Arizona State University's proactive approach to AI adoption, underscoring its partnership with OpenAI. Through innovation challenges, ASU encourages faculty and staff to propose projects that integrate ChatGPT into teaching, research, and business operations. These initiatives are grounded in measurable outcomes, ensuring a focus on impact. With over 250 active projects, such as the "Language Buddy" chatbot for German language students, ASU exemplifies how AI can enhance learning and streamline university processes.Why is AI Literacy a Priority for Higher Ed Leaders? Tina emphasizes that AI literacy is the cornerstone of effective technology adoption. Leaders must educate themselves on AI tools and trends to guide their teams and institutions effectively. She shares her own journey of diving into AI education, starting with podcasts like Hard Fork and Marketing AI. This foundational understanding enables leaders to foster fluency among their teams, ensuring that AI tools are used responsibly and effectively. Tina argues that prioritizing AI literacy is not optional—it's essential for staying competitive in the modern educational landscape.How Can Institutions Overcome Barriers to AI Adoption? While time constraints are a common concern among leaders, Tina insists that prioritization is key. She advises leaders to carve out time for AI education by identifying it as a top priority. Listening to industry-specific podcasts, attending conferences, and engaging with like-minded professionals are practical steps to build AI literacy. By fostering a culture of continuous learning and innovation, institutions can integrate AI into their operations to drive efficiency and enhance student success. - - - -Connect With Our Co-Hosts:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaSeth Odell https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/https://twitter.com/sethodellAbout 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! Some of our favorites include Generation AI and Confessions of a Higher Education Social Media Manager.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

Today's inductee into the 2024 Enrollify Hall of Fame is Jon-Stephen Stansel, founder of Saturn Nine Media, whose transformative social media strategies are reshaping higher education engagement. In this episode, Jon-Stephen discusses the immense potential of social listening, advocates for rethinking the role of social media managers, and shares actionable insights for empowering these professionals. His vision is setting a new standard for leveraging digital platforms in higher ed.Check out the full episodes Jon-Stephen appeared on: Confessions of a Higher Ed Social Media Manager - Episode 9Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO - Episode 55Mission Admissions - Episode 35Key TakeawaysExpand Social Listening Beyond Social Media: Social listening should inform institutional decisions, from curriculum design to event planning, not just content strategies.Elevate Social Media Management Roles: Social media managers should be experienced professionals, supported by entry-level staff, to reflect the critical responsibilities of the role.Support Social Media Teams: Leaders must trust and empower their social media professionals, especially during crisis communication.Foster Staff Advocacy: Encourage staff to share their expertise online and engage in professional communities to elevate both personal and institutional branding.How Can Social Listening Drive Institutional Strategy? Jon-Stephen Stansel argues that social listening's utility extends far beyond crafting social media posts—it should influence major institutional decisions. From adjusting event logistics like parking at commencement to refining messaging strategies, higher ed institutions can benefit immensely by analyzing audience feedback. Social listening provides real-time, data-driven insights that can guide decisions on curriculum updates, event planning, and even cafeteria offerings. By integrating these insights, institutions can better align their strategies with audience needs, fostering stronger connections and more effective operations.Why Should Social Media Management Be a Senior Role? Social media managers often operate under immense scrutiny while managing the public face of their institutions. Despite this, these roles are often treated as entry-level positions. Jon-Stephen calls for a paradigm shift: these critical roles should be filled by experienced professionals who are supported by entry-level staff or assistants. This approach ensures nuanced decision-making, reduces burnout, and provides space for mentorship. Social media managers must have the authority and trust to represent the institution effectively, especially during crises, to build credibility and maintain public confidence.How Can Leaders Better Support Social Media Teams? Jon-Stephen emphasizes the importance of leadership support for social media managers, particularly during high-pressure situations. Leaders should act as shields, ensuring their teams feel empowered to make decisions without fear of undue backlash. This trust fosters creativity and resilience within teams. Additionally, encouraging staff to share their expertise and engage with their professional communities can amplify the institution's reputation. By investing in professional development and showcasing staff talent, institutions can cultivate stronger networks and attract top-tier talent. - - - -Connect With Our Co-Hosts:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaSeth Odell https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/https://twitter.com/sethodellAbout 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! Some of our favorites include Generation AI and Confessions of a Higher Education Social Media Manager.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

Today's inductee into the 2024 Enrollify Hall of Fame is Kin Sajpal, Vice President of Marketing and Communications at the University of Redlands. We revisit Kin's groundbreaking insights on audience engagement, tailored marketing strategies, and fostering collaboration between enrollment and marketing teams. From innovative approaches to international student recruitment to the transformative "OneGrad" campaign, this episode is a masterclass in strategic higher ed marketing.Check out the full episodes Kin appeared on: Pulse Check: Finding Your Why — Part 1Pulse Check: Navigating International Recruitment — Part 1 Breaking Silos - Episode 6Key TakeawaysHarnessing Student Perspectives: Engaging students as collaborators in strategic planning enhances relevance and impact.Word-of-Mouth Marketing for International Students: Traditional and digital word-of-mouth remain pivotal for international recruitment.Tailored Campaigns by Segmentation: Deep segmentation—domestic and international—is essential for resonating with diverse audiences.Unified Branding for Greater ROI: Holistic campaigns like "OneGrad" and a university-level focus drive better results at lower costs.Enrollment-Marketing Collaboration: Transparent data-sharing and aligned goals foster efficiency and success in recruitment efforts.Episode SummaryHow Can Institutions Engage Students in Strategic Planning? Kin Sajpal highlights the power of inviting students into strategic conversations. By leveraging the expertise and experiences of student workers, institutions can refine their programs to better meet audience needs. This approach doesn't just apply to social media teams but extends across campus functions, creating a more comprehensive understanding of student expectations. Kin emphasizes the importance of viewing programs as "products" and ensuring their applicability across different student demographics. Her message underscores the enduring role of student input in crafting meaningful, audience-centric strategies.What Role Does Word-of-Mouth Play in International Recruitment? Drawing from her own journey as an international student, Kin advocates for the power of word-of-mouth marketing—both in traditional face-to-face interactions and through digital channels. She notes that while the mediums may evolve, the core principle remains: personal recommendations significantly influence decisions. Institutions must design programs with intentionality, ensuring they resonate across cultural nuances. This involves segmenting international audiences beyond broad geographic categories and investing time in understanding micro-segments to unlock high ROI.How Does Unified Branding Amplify Enrollment Success? Kin shares the University of Redlands' transition to unified branding campaigns like "OneGrad." By consolidating efforts into broader campaigns rather than field-specific ones, the university achieved cost efficiencies and better enrollment outcomes. These campaigns align recruitment and marketing efforts, providing prospective students with cohesive messaging. Kin also emphasizes the importance of collaboration between marketing and enrollment teams, where regular data-sharing allows both sides to adapt strategies dynamically and maximize results. - - - -Connect With Our Co-Hosts:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaSeth Odell https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/https://twitter.com/sethodellAbout 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! Some of our favorites include Generation AI and Confessions of a Higher Education Social Media Manager.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

Today's inductee into the 2024 Enrollify Hall of Fame is Claire Brady. With over two decades of experience in higher education, Claire is a trailblazer in helping institutions embrace artificial intelligence (AI) to improve teaching, learning, and student success.This episode revisits Claire's appearances on Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO and AI for You, where she dives into AI's transformative potential in higher education. From addressing AI literacy to breaking down misconceptions about its applications, Claire's insights provide a clear roadmap for navigating this revolutionary technology.Check out the full episodes Claire appeared on: AI For U - Episode 9 Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO - Episode 58Key TakeawaysAI Adoption is Essential: AI adoption in higher education is as critical as embracing the internet was years ago. Institutions must start now to stay competitive.Practical First Steps: Begin by consolidating institutional data, drafting AI policies, and improving online resources like Wikipedia pages that AI tools often pull from.AI Literacy is Key: Faculty, staff, and student affairs teams must understand how AI tools work, their origins, and their implications for privacy and equity.AI Can Improve Equity: By offering personalized, accessible communication—like translated and simplified information—AI can make higher education processes more inclusive.AI Frees Up Human Capital: Automation of repetitive tasks allows educators and staff to focus on higher-value, student-centric activities.Why Higher Ed is Slower to Adopt AI Claire explains that higher ed's slow adoption of AI stems from a combination of bandwidth constraints, systemic inertia, and concerns about misuse, such as cheating. However, she notes that other sectors, like healthcare, have overcome similar challenges, and higher ed can do the same.Key barriers include:Competing Priorities: Post-pandemic recovery and political/social unrest have stretched resources thin.Lack of AI Literacy: Many institutional leaders and staff lack foundational knowledge about how AI tools operate and their potential applications.Overemphasis on Risks: Conversations around AI cheating have overshadowed its benefits, delaying adoption.Where to Start with AI Claire emphasizes starting small and building gradually:Consolidate Data: Even if data isn't clean, putting it in one place is the first step to leveraging AI effectively.Audit Online Presence: AI tools like ChatGPT pull data from online sources, so institutions should update and improve Wikipedia pages and websites.Draft and Test Policies: Write initial policies on AI use and iterate based on outcomes.By focusing on these manageable steps, institutions can begin to unlock AI's potential without feeling overwhelmed.AI in Action: Nashville State Community College Claire highlights her work with Nashville State Community College, which secured a state grant for AI innovation. Over the next year, Claire will conduct training sessions with various stakeholder groups, including faculty, staff, and students. The goal is to integrate AI tools into campus operations and share lessons learned with other Tennessee institutions.Unlocking Potential: AI for Equity and Efficiency Claire sees AI as a game-changer for higher education, particularly for under-resourced institutions like community colleges and regional universities.AI Improves EquityEnables personalized communication in students' native languages and reading levels.Simplifies processes, making them more accessible to diverse student populations.AI Frees Staff for Meaningful WorkAutomates repetitive tasks like email communication and document editing.Allows academic advisors and other staff to spend more time engaging directly with students.Claire offers a compelling analogy: Imagine healthcare without patient-focused tools like translated instructions. AI can provide similar transformative benefits in higher education, such as improving communication with students about financial aid or academic standing.Final Thoughts  Claire Brady's vision for AI in higher education is both inspiring and practical. She challenges institutions to view AI not as a threat but as a tool to advance their missions of equity, access, and student success. - - - -Connect With Our Co-Hosts:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaSeth Odell https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/https://twitter.com/sethodellAbout 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! Some of our favorites include Generation AI and Confessions of a Higher Education Social Media Manager.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

On this special year-end episode of The Higher Ed Pulse, hosts Mallory and Seth revisit highlights from a remarkable 2024. With 46 episodes in just 52 weeks, the duo reflects on the standout moments that shaped their journey and connected deeply with listeners. From innovative conversations about AI to candid discussions about leadership in higher education, this episode is a heartfelt celebration of growth, community, and impactful storytelling.Key TakeawaysAI's Role in Education: The potential of AI in recruitment and operational efficiency remains transformative, allowing teams to focus on high-value, human-centric tasks.Career Advice for Rising Leaders: Hiring slow, firing fast, and leading with clarity are vital lessons for emerging professionals.Higher Education Leadership Challenges: Many CMOs face the challenge of navigating legacy models while driving future-focused results.Listener Engagement Matters: Hearing from listeners reinforced the importance of impactful, relatable content.Highlight #1: The April Fool's AI Episode The April 1st episode explored AI's possibilities in a groundbreaking way. Not only was the episode scripted by AI, but even the hosts' voices were generated using AI voice clones. This creative experiment sparked awe and curiosity among listeners, showcasing the potential and ethical implications of AI in media. Seth shared how he continues to play the episode for friends and family, delighting in their astonishment upon learning the truth.Revisit the full episode: https://www.enrollify.org/episodes/a-cautionary-tale-about-artificial-intelligenceHighlight #2: AI and Student Recruitment In October, Mallory and Seth delved into the intersection of AI and student recruitment, spotlighting AI agents' ability to drive applications and improve staff efficiency. This episode resonated widely, addressing a critical pain point for higher education professionals: balancing administrative burdens with meaningful, student-focused engagement. AI, as they noted, is not about replacing staff but empowering teams to prioritize high-touch initiatives.Revisit the full episode: https://www.enrollify.org/episodes/episode-38-ai-student-recruitmentHighlight #3: Career Advice for Rising Leaders The "Career Advice for Rising Leaders" episode provided actionable guidance for aspiring professionals. Seth and Mallory shared personal lessons, emphasizing the importance of hiring thoughtfully, giving constructive feedback, and embracing leadership opportunities. The positive response from listeners underscored the relevance of fostering transparent and supportive environments for professional growth.Revisit the full episode: https://www.enrollify.org/episodes/episode-28-career-advice-for-rising-leadersHighlight #4: Why Every CMO Wants to Quit Drawing inspiration from SimpsonScarborough's research, this episode tackled the pressures facing CMOs in higher education. Listeners related to the candid discussion about resource constraints, leadership autonomy, and the complexities of navigating legacy systems while achieving future-facing goals. Mallory's reflection on whether CMOs are empowered to succeed remains a poignant takeaway for professionals at all levels.Revisit the full episode: https://www.enrollify.org/episodes/saying-the-quiet-part-out-loud-why-every-edu-cmo-wants-to-quit - - - -Connect With Our Co-Hosts:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaSeth Odell https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/https://twitter.com/sethodellAbout 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! Some of our favorites include Generation AI and Confessions of a Higher Education Social Media Manager.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

Today's inductee into the 2024 Enrollify Hall of Fame is Joshua Charles. Josh has become a standout leader in higher education, recognized for his innovative approaches to collaboration, leadership, and breaking down institutional silos.In this highlight reel, Josh shares his top strategies for fostering campus-wide collaboration, building relationships with leadership, and leveraging teamwork to achieve better outcomes. Whether you're navigating cross-campus partnerships or refining internal team processes, Josh's insights provide a roadmap for creating meaningful change in higher education.Check out the full episodes Joshua appeared on: Breaking Silos - Episode 15 Higher Ed Pulse - Bonus Live at HighEdWebKey TakeawaysProactive Partnerships: Reach out to campus stakeholders directly, tailoring communication to their needs to foster collaboration and build trust.Understanding Leadership Priorities: Develop relationships with campus leaders to align your team's work with the institution's strategic goals.Focus on Audience-Centric Strategy: Identify your target audience, refine their journey, and differentiate your offerings by focusing on what you can control.Internal Team Collaboration: Build strong internal processes by fostering open conversations about roles, preferences, and workflows.Breaking Down Silos Across Institutions: Collaborate with peers at other institutions to share resources, align goals, and amplify collective impact.Building Campus Partnerships Josh highlights the importance of reaching out to key stakeholders across campus instead of waiting for collaboration to happen. By understanding how your work affects others and personalizing your communication to resonate with their goals, you can build trust and secure buy-in for future initiatives.For example, Josh emphasizes the need to understand the priorities and communication styles of campus leaders such as associate deans of finance, faculty, or international students. These relationships are critical in aligning team efforts with broader institutional strategies.Focusing on What You Can Control In discussing challenges unique to Rutgers Business School, Josh advocates for focusing on audience-centric strategies to overcome barriers. Rather than dwelling on institutional politics, teams should:Clarify target audiences and map their journeys.Differentiate offerings by tailoring content and campaigns to specific needs.Use collaboration to share resources and learn from peers in similar roles across campus or even at competing institutions.Josh's advice centers on leveraging what is within your control—such as refining messaging or developing resourceful marketing strategies—to achieve impactful results.Internal Collaboration: Building a Strong Team Josh describes an intentional, hands-on approach to fostering collaboration within his team of 10. By organizing sessions focused on specific examples—such as marketing an MBA program—team members gain a clear understanding of each other's roles, workflows, and needs.Key steps include:Open Conversations: Encourage team members to share their communication and workflow preferences.Document Processes: Create shared documents outlining tasks, responsibilities, and dependencies to ensure alignment.Reflect and Improve: Dedicate meeting time to reflect on what's working and identify areas for improvement.These practices build trust and eliminate inefficiencies, ultimately creating a more cohesive team.Breaking Silos Across Institutions Josh also shares the value of connecting with staff at other institutions to foster a culture of collaboration. By understanding the scope of their resources, challenges, and strategies, teams can align efforts and learn from one another. For example, Rutgers Business School staff regularly engage with peers at Rutgers Camden, recognizing that cooperation benefits everyone—students, staff, and the institution at large.Final Thoughts Josh Charles's commitment to fostering collaboration and creating meaningful change is a testament to his leadership in higher education. From breaking silos to strengthening internal processes, his insights inspire higher ed professionals to rethink how they work together to achieve better outcomes. - - - -Connect With Our Co-Hosts:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaSeth Odell https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/https://twitter.com/sethodellAbout 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! Some of our favorites include Generation AI and Confessions of a Higher Education Social Media Manager.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 episode of Reclaiming Free Speech, Democracy, and Discourse on Campus, host Dr. J. Cody Nielsen sits down with Dr. Charles H.F. Davis III, Assistant Professor at the University of Michigan and scholar of race, systems of oppression, and student activism. Together, they unpack the implications of Donald Trump's re-election, the challenges of free speech on campus, and the broader societal forces shaping higher education. This episode delves deep into student activism, higher education's colonial roots, and the ways administrators and educators must navigate the ongoing struggle for justice and equity.Key TakeawaysStudent Activism Reflects Broader Sociopolitical Realities: Campus movements—whether for Black Lives Matter or pro-Palestinian rights—mirror larger societal struggles, challenging higher education's historical role as a site of exclusion and privilege.Higher Education and Systems of Power: Colleges have long been intertwined with colonialism, capitalism, and racialized oppression. Deconstructing these systems requires critical reflection and moral courage from institutional leaders.The Role of Administrators: University administrators must prioritize people over prestige and resist suppressive policies that target student activism, particularly around anti-democratic and oppressive issues.Self-Care in the Struggle for Justice: Individual and communal care are critical. Dr. Davis highlights the importance of collective healing, family, and finding spaces for joy and restoration amid ongoing activism.The Trump Administration's Impact: A second Trump term amplifies existing tensions, but the struggle for justice and liberation remains constant—organizers must double down on efforts to improve material conditions for marginalized communities.What Role Does Student Activism Play in the Current Political Landscape?Dr. Charles H.F. Davis III outlines how campus activism has always reflected broader sociopolitical contexts. From the Black Lives Matter movement to pro-Palestinian organizing, students are at the forefront of confronting oppressive systems and demanding institutional accountability. Dr. Davis connects today's student movements to historical activism, such as the Black Campus Movement of the 1960s and the role of ethnic studies programs in democratizing higher education. He highlights that institutions often resist meaningful change unless forced by organized collective action.How Has Higher Education Historically Maintained Systems of Oppression?Dr. Davis dives into higher education's colonial roots, emphasizing how campuses were built on stolen land and the labor of enslaved Black individuals. These structures persist today, manifested in racialized exclusion, elitism, and suppression of dissent. Administrators must confront their complicity in upholding oppressive systems and commit to re-centering people over profits, productivity, and prestige. He challenges leaders to reflect on their roles and question whether they are truly serving students or perpetuating institutional harm.What Should Higher Education Leaders Do in the Face of Political Suppression?Reflecting on the Trump administration's impact, Dr. Davis notes that institutions have increasingly adopted suppressive policies, weaponizing campus and municipal policing to silence student protests. He urges administrators to act with “moral and political courage,” protecting students rather than criminalizing their activism. By aligning with community values and rejecting reactionary policies, leaders can challenge anti-democratic behaviors and support a more just higher education system.How Do We Balance Activism with Personal and Collective Well-Being?Recognizing the emotional and physical toll of activism, Dr. Davis emphasizes the importance of collective care and healing. He advocates for communal approaches to self-care—rejecting individualism in favor of shared spaces for rest, reflection, and joy. Whether through family, community organizing, or physical activities like running, activists must prioritize well-being to sustain their long-term efforts.Guest Name: Dr. Charles H.F. Davis IIIGuest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hfdavis/www.campusabolition.orgGuest Bio: Dr. Charles H.F. Davis III is a third-generation educator, organizer, and artist committed to the lives, love, and liberation of everyday Black people. Named a 2020 Emerging Scholar by Diverse Issues in Higher Education and a 2021 NAEd/Spencer Postdoctoral Fellow, Dr. Davis  is currently an assistant professor in the Center for the Study of Higher and Postsecondary Education at the University of Michigan. As director of the Campus Abolition Research Lab, Dr. Davis' research broadly explores the racialized consequences of higher education on society. He has produced more than three dozen publications including research articles, books, and scholarly essays as well as several short and feature-length films. - - - -Connect With Our Co-Hosts:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaSeth Odell https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/https://twitter.com/sethodellAbout 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! Some of our favorites include Generation AI and Confessions of a Higher Education Social Media Manager.Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

This week, Dustin welcomes back Bill Zimmerman, a communications professor at Penn State and author of the new book, Understanding the Creator Economy, to discuss the transformative impact of the creator economy on higher education. They explore why understanding and supporting content creation is crucial for higher ed institutions—from improving student engagement to innovative marketing strategies. Bill shares insights on how universities can integrate creator economy principles into their curricula and campus culture, providing students with real-world skills and creating new channels for brand engagement.Guest Name: Bill Zimmerman, Assistant Teaching Professor at Penn State UniversityGuest Social: LinkedInGuest Bio: With a career spent communicating through various mediums, Bill Zimmerman is fascinated with how messages are delivered and new ideas take hold in our hyper-connected world. A member of the Penn State faculty since 2017, Zimmerman is the faculty supervisor for CommAgency's social media division and runs the Bellisario College's social media/content creator camp for high schoolers in the summer. He's also presented at various conferences such as eduWeb Summit, HighEdWeb, Social Media Strategies Summit: Higher Ed and The One Club for Creativity Educator Summit. - - - -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! Some of our favorites include Generation AI and I Wanna Work There. Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

Today's inductee into the 2024 Enrollify Hall of Fame is Bart Caylor. The president of Caylor Solutions and host of The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast, Bart is renowned for his forward-thinking approach to AI in higher education. This episode compiles highlights from Bart's appearances on various Enrollify network shows, showcasing his perspectives on AI literacy, overcoming resistance to innovation, and leveraging AI tools to revolutionize higher education. Dive into the transformative insights shaping the future of enrollment marketing and leadership in higher ed.Check out the full episodes Bart appeared on: AI For U - Episode 2 Mission Admissions - Episode 33 Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO - Episode 50Key TakeawaysAI Resistance and Adoption: Resistance to AI often stems from fear, misconceptions, and change fatigue. Education and AI literacy are crucial for overcoming these barriers.Transformative Potential of AI: AI is poised to revolutionize higher education more profoundly than any previous technological advancement, reshaping marketing, operations, and student engagement.Practical AI Strategies: Tools like ChatGPT can significantly enhance productivity, helping higher ed professionals achieve more in less time by mastering prompt engineering.Leadership in AI Era: With AI driving rapid changes, higher ed leaders must embrace innovation to navigate the enrollment cliff and emerging trends effectively.What Are the Biggest Challenges in AI Adoption in Higher Education? Bart Caylor identifies two primary challenges in AI adoption: fear and underutilization. Resistance often stems from fear of the unknown or ethical concerns, with many professionals skeptical about adopting new tools. Others fail to realize AI's full potential, using it only for simple tasks like rewriting emails.Bart emphasizes that these challenges can be overcome through AI literacy and hands-on education. By demystifying AI and showcasing its capabilities, professionals can shift from skepticism to informed adoption. For instance, understanding that AI is a learning tool, not just a content scraper, fosters trust and opens the door to meaningful integration.How Can AI Reshape Higher Education? Bart predicts that AI will have a more significant impact on higher education than the personal computer, internet, and social media combined. From enhancing marketing strategies to improving operational efficiency, AI tools like ChatGPT allow institutions to tackle problems quickly and effectively.For example, AI-driven assistants could soon be integrated into platforms like Siri, enabling natural, conversational interactions. As institutions leverage these advancements, they'll be able to streamline processes, improve student engagement, and remain competitive in a rapidly changing landscape.What Role Will Leadership Play in AI-Driven Transformation? The accelerating pace of AI adoption and the looming enrollment cliff demand adaptive leadership. Bart warns of potential leadership fatigue, as senior leaders may retire rather than manage the rapid changes AI brings. This creates opportunities for younger, tech-savvy professionals to step into leadership roles.To succeed, future leaders must embrace AI literacy and understand how to use tools like ChatGPT to make data-driven decisions. By leveraging AI for strategic initiatives, institutions can overcome challenges and position themselves for long-term success.How Can Higher Ed Professionals Start Using AI Effectively? Bart recommends starting small to build confidence with AI. For instance, using ChatGPT to create a simple meal plan introduces users to prompt engineering and the tool's capabilities. This approach helps professionals understand how to frame questions and maximize AI's utility.He also highlights that AI isn't just a time-saver—it enables professionals to accomplish more within the same time frame. By integrating AI into daily workflows, higher ed marketers and administrators can focus on high-impact tasks without extending their work hours. - - - -Connect With Our Co-Hosts:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaSeth Odell https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/https://twitter.com/sethodellAbout 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! Some of our favorites include Generation AI and Confessions of a Higher Education Social Media Manager.Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

In this episode, newly elected 26 year old South Dakota State Senator Amber Hulse shares her thoughts on self awareness, gaining confidence, the importance of mindset and daily habits, as well as other things that have helped her grow and experience success as a young professional.Guest Name: Amber HulseGuest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amber-hulse/Guest Bio: Amber Hulse is a rising leader and lawyer who recently became one of the nation's youngest legislators when she was elected to the South Dakota State Senate at age 26. Originally from Hot Springs, South Dakota, Amber graduated Phi Beta Kappa, Summa Cum Laude from the University of South Dakota, and went on to receive her law degree from Georgetown Law this past spring. Amber's dedication to public service extends beyond her legal career, having been named Miss South Dakota 2019 and Miss South Dakota USA 2023. Currently, Amber is an associate at Dhillon Law Group, the law firm of renowned lawyer Harmeet Dhillon. - - - -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! Some of our favorites include Generation AI and The Application with Allison Turcio.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

Today's inductee into the 2024 Enrollify Hall of Fame is Devin Purgason, who has explored the future of higher education marketing, equity-focused student support, and transformative approaches to enrollment management across our network this year. Whether you're a higher-ed marketer or an admissions professional, this episode is packed with actionable insights.Check out the full episodes Devin appeared on: Confessions of a Higher Ed Social Media Manager - Episode 28 Breaking Silos - Episode 2 The Hidden Gem - Episode 2Key TakeawaysEquity-Driven Marketing and Support:Shift from traditional recruitment models to equity-based, student-centric service delivery.Meet students where they are with holistic wraparound services that remove barriers to enrollment and retention.Personalized and Diverse Strategies:Design marketing strategies that address the unique needs of diverse populations, including adult learners and nontraditional students.Use tailored messaging, open houses, and success coaches to enhance engagement.Community-Oriented Approaches:Build a sense of belonging for students through targeted events, free childcare, and holistic care services.Establish wraparound networks, like Forsyth Tech Cares, to address students' academic and personal needs.Seamless Student Experiences:Go beyond attracting students by shepherding them through every stage of the journey, from inquiry to graduation.Create frictionless transitions within institutions by reducing departmental silos.Reimagining the Student Funnel Devin Purgason of Forsyth Tech highlights how traditional enrollment funnels often leave students feeling unsupported. Forsyth Tech reshaped this model with a student-centric approach rooted in equity, focusing on providing continuous guidance and care throughout the student lifecycle.The Importance of Meeting Students Where They Are Forsyth Tech's marketing strategy prioritizes inclusivity and accessibility, especially for adult learners. Initiatives include:Adult Learner Open Houses: Events designed to accommodate working adults and their families, complete with childcare and meals.Success Coaches: Personalized support for navigating technology, academics, and life challenges.Holistic Wraparound Support: The Forsyth Tech Cares program provides essential items like baby formula, food, and school supplies to help students focus on their education.Shifting Demographics Demand Diverse Strategies As Devin explains, the student body today spans from teenagers to retirees, creating a need for marketing that resonates with all ages. Forsyth Tech has embraced this challenge by utilizing diverse platforms and messaging strategies tailored to different demographics.A Culture of Support Devin emphasizes the importance of making every student feel like they belong. At Forsyth Tech, this means treating each individual not as a "seat" but as a valued member of a community, fostering a culture of love and service. - - - -Connect With Our Co-Hosts:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaSeth Odell https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/https://twitter.com/sethodellAbout 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! Some of our favorites include Generation AI and Confessions of a Higher Education Social Media Manager.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 Enrollify webinar, Balancing Bites and Bonds: How AI Can Humanize Higher Ed, Mallory Willsea and an expert panel dive deep into how artificial intelligence is transforming student engagement in higher education. Featuring Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO host Jamie Hunt, Generation AI co-host JC Bonilla, AI for U host Brian Piper, and The Hidden Gem host Maya Demishkevich, the discussion addresses the dual challenge of automating processes while maintaining meaningful, human connections. Through innovative examples, insights, and lively conversation, this episode provides a roadmap for leveraging AI to create more personalized and efficient student experiences.Key Takeaways:AI as a Personalization Multiplier: AI enables hyper-personalization, allowing institutions to deliver tailored experiences at scale while freeing staff for high-touch student interactions.Balancing Efficiency and Empathy: AI can handle repetitive tasks and provide instant answers, allowing human advisors to focus on meaningful, personalized connections.Student-Centric Approach: Despite concerns, students generally value efficient solutions over the origin of communication, provided their needs are met.Ethical AI Use: Transparency, data security, and empathy should be foundational to AI implementations in higher ed.AI's Potential for Scaling Impact: Tools like virtual assistants and predictive modeling have proven success in improving outcomes, such as higher grades and retention rates.1. How does AI enhance student engagement without dehumanizing it?Panelists agreed that AI's strength lies in its ability to manage repetitive tasks and provide hyper-personalized interactions. For instance, Dr. JC Bonilla emphasized that AI acts as a "personalization multiplier," allowing institutions to address individual student needs with a level of nuance and efficiency impossible through manual methods alone.AI-powered tools, such as predictive analytics, enable institutions to identify at-risk students early. Brian Piper shared a compelling example from Ivy Tech Community College, where AI monitoring alerted counselors to students in danger of failing, resulting in a 98% success rate for these students in achieving a C grade or higher. 2. What are examples of successful AI use in higher education?Several panelists highlighted successful AI applications:Georgia State University: Direct text messages powered by AI helped first-generation students improve their grades by an average of 11 percentage points.Virtual Campus Tours: Maya Demishkevich shared an example where AI-powered avatars significantly increased engagement during online campus tours, providing institutions with scalable alternatives to human guides.AI Virtual Assistants: Institutions like Forsyth Tech have saved thousands of staff hours by automating responses to routine queries, enabling human staff to focus on higher-value tasks.3. Do students care if AI is part of their experience?Surprisingly, the consensus was that students care more about getting their needs met efficiently than whether the solution involves AI. However, transparency remains critical. As Brian Piper pointed out, institutions should disclose when AI tools are being used to ensure trust isn't eroded. 4. What are the ethical considerations in using AI for student communications?Panelists underscored the importance of ethical AI use, advocating for transparency, data security, and empathy as foundational principles. Jamie Hunt stressed the need to ensure AI-generated content aligns with institutional values and human oversight remains part of the decision-making process. 5. How can institutions address faculty and staff fears about AI replacing jobs?To build trust, institutions should focus on training faculty and staff to use AI tools as enhancements to their roles, not replacements. As Maya Demishkevich noted, AI can save time by automating mundane tasks, allowing employees to focus on strategic, human-centric work. JC Bonilla added that embracing the role of “AI champions” within institutions can help bridge the gap between AI skeptics and early adopters. 6. What does the future of AI in higher ed look like?Panelists agreed that AI's future lies in hyper-personalization, advanced virtual assistants, and smaller, task-specific language models (LLMs). The emergence of AI "agents" tailored for distinct tasks will allow for even greater efficiency and impact.AI is transforming higher education by bridging the gap between efficiency and empathy. The insights shared in this episode reveal the exciting potential for AI to not only streamline processes but also amplify the human connections at the heart of higher education. To dive deeper, listen to the full episode of Balancing Bites and Bonds: How AI Can Humanize Higher Ed, and explore the possibilities for your institution. - - - -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! Some of our favorites include Talking Tactics and Higher Ed Pulse. 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

We're pleased to feature this conversation with podcasting veteran and seasoned educator Bonnie Stachowiak, host of the Teaching in Higher Ed podcast, about the power of teaching, creativity, and vulnerability. Bonnie shares insights from over a decade of podcasting and reflects on how curiosity and empathy drive her approach to teaching. They discuss the evolving role of AI in education, how institutions can nurture a culture of learning, and why hope—combined with action—is crucial in shaping the future of higher ed. Bonnie's reflections remind us that teaching is a joyful yet complex journey, where human connection, curiosity, and adaptability are key.Guest Name: Dr. Bonni Stachowiak, Dean of Teaching & Learning at Vanguard UniversityGuest Social: LinkedInGuest Bio: Bonni Stachowiak is the host of the Teaching in Higher Ed podcast, which has been downloaded nearly 5 million times. She serves as dean of teaching and learning and professor of business and management at Vanguard University of Southern California. As the creator and host of Teaching in Higher Ed, Bonni explores the art and science of teaching, amplifying diverse educators' voices and fostering a global learning community. The podcast won the MERLOT Classics Award in 2016 and has been featured in publications like Inside Higher Ed and The Chronicle of Higher Education. Bonni holds a Doctorate in Organizational Leadership from Pepperdine University. She frequently speaks at universities and conferences on effective teaching strategies and educational technology. - - - -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! Some of our favorites include Generation AI and I Wanna Work There. Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

Got a story to tell? An innovative idea to share? Fill out our guest nomination form, and let's chat!This week, Dustin chats with Rasheed Behrooznia, Senior Vice President and General Manager at Transact, who discusses the game-changing role of digital student IDs in higher education. Rasheed shares how Transact's pioneering work on mobile credentials has transformed campus operations, enhanced security, and elevated the student experience. Drawing from years of experience in defense and public transit, Rasheed emphasizes the importance of mobile-first solutions and environmental sustainability, while offering insights on how colleges can streamline student services. This is a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of campus technology and student engagement.Guest Name: Rasheed Behrooznia, SVP & General Manager at Transact CampusGuest Social: LinkedInGuest Bio: Rasheed Behrooznia, Senior Vice President and GM of Campus ID and Commerce for Transact Campus, is an accomplished engineering, product, and technology leader who has demonstrated a remarkable ability to deliver impactful technology solutions to universities across the globe. Rasheed's Campus ID division has streamlined operations at more than 100 universities and has issued more than 2 million credentials, helping schools meet the rising technological demands of Gen Z students. Throughout his career, Rasheed has excelled in managing global teams, showcasing flexible leadership in both hardware and software development. His expertise spans embedded systems, payment technologies, firmware development, enterprise software, and cloud-based solutions. His journey toward enhancing the campus experiences of millions of students is a testament to the transformative power of engineering and innovation. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/https://twitter.com/HigherEd_GeekAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you'll like other Enrollify shows too! Some of our favorites include Generation AI and I Wanna Work There. Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

Lots of folks are using AI, but about 47% of teens use it multiple times a week. That's a huge number. So how does “Generation AI” feel about AI's uses, what do they use it for mostly and what is their take on the tech's future? Plus: McDonald's tries to course correct and 60m households had their eyes on Paul vs Tyson. Join our hosts Jon Weigell and Rob Litterst as they take you through our most interesting stories of the day. Follow us on social media: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thehustle.co Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehustledaily/ Thank You For Listening to The Hustle Daily Show. Don't forget to hit Subscribe or Follow us on Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode! If you want this news delivered to your inbox, join millions of others and sign up for The Hustle Daily newsletter, here: https://thehustle.co/email/  Plus! Your engagement matters to us. If you are a fan of the show, be sure to leave us a 5-Star Review on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-hustle-daily-show/id1606449047 (and share your favorite episodes with your friends, clients, and colleagues).