Podcasts about Global education

AI, Sovereignty and the New Education Divide In this thought-provoking episode of The EdTech Podcast, Philippa Wraithmell speaks with Tom Orrell and Cameron Mirza about education, AI, global development and the growing divide between countries that can shape technological change — and those at risk of having it shaped for them. Tom, Deputy Director of Programs at Development Gateway, brings a background in human rights law, digital policy, sustainable development and humanitarian action. Cameron, Chief of Party for the Assas programme in Jordan, brings deep experience from the UK Department for Education and large-scale education reform across the Middle East. Together, they explore how their different professional routes have led to a shared focus on equity, ethics, implementation and meaningful system change. The conversation begins with the human story behind their work: family connections to teaching, personal motivations, and the values that have shaped their careers. Cameron reflects on how his mother's work as a primary school teacher continues to influence his commitment to early-grade education, while Tom shares how his own route through human rights, law and digital policy shaped his belief in critical thinking, rights and international cooperation. At the heart of the episode is the Assas programme in Jordan, which focuses on improving early-grade literacy and numeracy outcomes for young learners. Tom and Cameron discuss why foundational education matters not just for academic success, but for long-term life chances, economic development, health outcomes and social prosperity. The discussion then moves into the realities facing education systems globally. Cameron highlights the scale of the current learning crisis, teacher shortages, student debt, cost-of-living pressures and the increasing strain on public systems. Tom builds on this by exploring how AI and emerging technologies are accelerating change — but not always in a positive direction. AI, he argues, is not inherently good or bad; it is an acceleration force that can deepen harm or expand opportunity depending on the choices made around governance, policy and implementation. A key theme throughout the episode is sovereignty. Tom and Cameron unpack why AI sovereignty is no longer just about where data is stored. It is also about computing power, local infrastructure, culturally relevant datasets, language, regulation, national priorities and the ability of countries to make informed decisions about the tools they adopt. This raises difficult questions about global inequity, especially when most AI models are developed by a small number of countries and companies, while many lower-income nations lack the infrastructure or policy capacity to shape the direction of AI on their own terms. The episode also examines the danger of technology being treated as a quick fix for complex system problems. Cameron argues that the countries most likely to thrive in the next phase of innovation will not simply be those with the most money, but those able to build strong innovation governance systems — connecting government, regulators, universities, private sector partners, infrastructure, entrepreneurs and policymakers into trusted, coordinated systems. Tom and Cameron also discuss their work with sandboxes in Jordan, exploring how countries can safely test new technologies, understand trade-offs, and make choices that align with their own educational, cultural and national priorities. They emphasise that effective innovation is no longer just about technology; it is about coordination, trust, sequencing and the ability to cut through noise. The final part of the conversation turns to leadership. Cameron argues that leaders now need a systems mindset, ethical judgement, entrepreneurial thinking and the ability to operate in ambiguity while staying close to the realities on the ground. Tom reinforces the importance of emotional intelligence, empathy, communication and human connection in an age where technology is becoming increasingly dominant. This episode is a sharp, honest and deeply human conversation about the future of education. It challenges the hype around AI while recognising its potential, and asks what it will take to ensure that technological transformation strengthens education systems rather than widening the divide between them.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Backgrounds 04:13 Shared Vision and Collaboration 08:24 The Assas Program: Transforming Education in Jordan 12:56 Personal Motivations and Educational Impact 17:03 Current Challenges in Global Education 21:27 The Role of Technology in Education 25:56 Navigating Policy and Governance in Education 30:27 Leadership in Education: Skills for the Future 42:04 Sparkling_Chime_Transition.wav 42:10 NEWCHAPTER

Host Alex Usher speaks with Marcel Levi, President of the Dutch Research Council and chair of the Netherlands' Knowledge Coalition, about how the country built one of the world's most collaborative and knowledge-intensive research ecosystems. Levi explains the origins of the Knowledge Coalition — an alliance of universities, research organizations, employers, and scientific institutions — and how it evolved from a government advisory body into a unified political voice defending research and higher education during recent funding cuts and populist attacks on universities. The conversation explores the Netherlands' culture of institutional collaboration, the role of public advocacy in shifting political opinion, and how coordinated investments in interdisciplinary research, European partnerships, and innovation policy are shaping the future of Dutch and European science. 

Have questions, feedback, or thoughts on the show? We want to hear from you! Click on this link to send us a text message. Hosted by Jim Lenz, Director of Global Education and Training at GEAPS, this episode of the Whole Grain Podcast explores how military experience translates into meaningful careers in the grain handling and processing industry.A lot of veterans don't struggle with work ethic—they struggle with direction. When the uniform comes off, the mission and the built-in team can disappear overnight. That's why this conversation resonates so strongly.Jim sits down with veterans Bishop Chamberlin and Justin Leach of The DeLong Co., Inc. to discuss how the grain industry can turn “I just need a job” into a career built around community, growth, leadership, and real public impact.Together, they explore the practical reasons veterans fit grain operations so well: long hours, high standards, safety-first thinking, teamwork, adaptability, and constant problem solving when equipment, logistics, or plans suddenly change. Bishop shares how his military background in construction, logistics, and leadership translates directly into agricultural exports and terminal operations, while Justin discusses the leadership habits that matter most on civilian teams—staying level-headed, developing people, and building trust quickly.The conversation also dives into veteran advocacy and support systems that truly make a difference. Bishop explains the creation of The DeLong Company's Military Veterans Resource Group and why veterans often need a “team within a team” as they transition into civilian careers. The discussion also highlights how small improvements in recruiting, interviewing, onboarding, and mentorship can improve retention and long-term success for veterans, National Guard members, and Reservists.Finally, the episode shares the origin story behind the new GEAPS Military Discount Program, which provides 50% off GEAPS online learning opportunities for veterans and active-duty military personnel. The group discusses how reducing financial barriers can help veterans pursue credentials like the CGOM and stand out in a rapidly evolving industry.If you care about workforce development, veteran careers, leadership, and the future of agriculture logistics, this is a conversation worth sharing.Subscribe to the Whole Grain Podcast, share this episode with a veteran or hiring manager, and leave a review to help more people discover opportunities in the grain industry.Grain Elevator and Processing Society champions, connects and serves the global grain industry and its members. Be sure to visit GEAPS' website to learn how you can grow your network, support your personal professional development, and advance your career. Thank you for listening to another episode of GEAPS' Whole Grain podcast.

Host Alex Usher speaks with Christine Wach, Senior Vice President of Partnerships and Stakeholder Engagement at IDP Education, about the evolution of international student mobility and the shifting global higher education market. Wach traces IDP's origins as an Australian government and university initiative, its transformation into a multinational education services company, and the development of IELTS and other major business lines. The conversation explores the post-pandemic surge and subsequent slowdown in international student flows across Anglophone countries, the growing importance of migration pathways and employability in student decision-making, and the emergence of new destination markets beyond the traditional “Big Four.” They also discuss AI's impact on student recruitment, the challenges of sustainable growth, and how institutions and governments may need to rethink international education strategies in an increasingly competitive and uncertain environment.

Host Alex Usher speaks with James Waghorne, University Historian at the University of Melbourne and co-editor (with Ross Jones and Marcia Langton) of Dhoombak Goobgoowana, a two-volume work examining Indigenous Australia and the University of Melbourne. Waghorne discusses how the project approaches colonial history through case studies of race science, anthropology, and the harvesting of Indigenous human remains, situating the university within broader systems of Western scientific knowledge and settler colonialism. The conversation also explores the University of Melbourne's reconciliation efforts, including Indigenous knowledge in the curriculum, collaborative research partnerships, Indigenous astronomy, and the challenges universities face in confronting their colonial pasts while reshaping higher education for the future.

Host Alex Usher speaks with Nicholas Dirks about the realities of university leadership amid financial pressures, political scrutiny, and growing institutional constraints. Drawing on his experience at Columbia and UC Berkeley, Dirks reflects on navigating crises around academic freedom and campus governance, and why meaningful reform in higher education is so difficult to achieve. The conversation also explores debates around institutional neutrality, interdisciplinarity, and what changes may be necessary for universities to adapt to an increasingly uncertain future. 

Have questions, feedback, or thoughts on the show? We want to hear from you! Click on this link to send us a text message. Designing a grain facility is one of the most critical—and infrequent—decisions in grain handling and processing operations. The choices made during planning, layout, and construction can impact efficiency, safety, and long-term performance for decades.In this episode of the Whole Grain Podcast, Jim Lenz, Director of Global Education and Training at GEAPS, is joined by Chris Schaudt, Vice President of Sales at Mid-States Companies, to explore what it takes to design grain facilities that truly stand the test of time. Chris brings extensive experience supporting grain facility design, construction, expansion, and material handling systems for a wide range of operations, including cooperatives, processors, ethanol plants, and food-grade facilities.Chris shares practical insights into grain facility design, material handling systems, and the decisions that separate successful projects from costly mistakes.Whether you're planning a new grain facility, upgrading existing infrastructure, or evaluating your current operation, this episode provides actionable guidance to help you build smarter, safer, and more efficient systems.What You'll LearnKey considerations when designing a grain facility for long-term performance Common mistakes made during grain facility planning and construction How grain flow and layout impact operational efficiency What it means to design for future expansion and scalability Lessons learned from real grain facility projects across the U.S. How to avoid costly mistakes during construction and upgrades Trends shaping the future of grain handling and storage systems Key Links & ResourcesLearn more about Mid-States Companies: https://midstatescompanies.com/ Chris Schaudt, VP Sales, Mid-States CompaniesPhone: 515-509-3011 Email: chris.schaudt@midstatescompanies.comExplore educational solutions and membership information at the Grain Elevator and Processing Society: https://www.geaps.com Grain Elevator and Processing Society champions, connects and serves the global grain industry and its members. Be sure to visit GEAPS' website to learn how you can grow your network, support your personal professional development, and advance your career. Thank you for listening to another episode of GEAPS' Whole Grain podcast.

It's YOUR time to #EdUp with David King, Chief Product Officer & Co-President of Global Education, Flywire In this episode, recorded LIVE from the Ellucian Live 2026 conference in Denver, Colorado,YOUR host is Dr. Jodi BlincoListen in to #EdUpThank YOU so much for tuning in. Join us on the next episode for YOUR time to EdUp!Connect with YOUR EdUp Team - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Elvin Freytes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ & ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Dr. Joe Sallustio⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠● Join YOUR EdUp community at ⁠The EdUp Experience⁠We make education YOUR business!P.S. Want access to the only intelligence platform built exclusively from presidential conversations in higher education? Join EdUp Leadership!

Host Alex Usher speaks with Daniel Collier and Michael Kofoed about the uncertain status and evolving role of the U.S. Department of Education under the Trump administration. They unpack why the department still exists despite efforts to dismantle it, and what that reveals about the limits of executive power. The conversation explores key policy shifts around student aid, accreditation, and DEI, and how legally fragile or unclear directives are shaping institutional behaviour across higher education. They also examine major changes to student loan repayment, including the move to a new Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP), and what it means for borrowers. Collier and Kofoed reflect on the risks of governing through executive action and how upcoming political shifts could reshape the future of federal higher education policy. 

Host Alex Usher speaks with Chang Da Wan about the evolution of strategic planning in Malaysian higher education, from decades-long national development plans to the newly released Higher Education Blueprint (2026–2035). They explore how a deeply embedded planning culture has shaped the system—and whether it has truly delivered on its ambitions.The conversation examines the blueprint's structure, including its ten policy pillars, the continued influence of neoliberal governance and performance metrics, and concerns about limited transparency and top-down decision-making. They also discuss major policy questions around pre-university pathways, equity, and the complexities of managing multiple admission systems.The episode further looks at emerging priorities such as student wellbeing, the challenges of measuring non-academic outcomes, and the uncertain role of technology in future planning. Chang Da Wan reflects on what may be missing from the current blueprint—and what the next generation of reforms will need to address about the purpose and future of universities in Malaysia.

Host Dr. Joel Berg is joined by Dr. Juan Yepes, a distinguished professor and AAPD 2026 featured speaker, for a discussion focused on Dr. Yepes unique journey to become both a pediatric dentist and medical primary care physician. Dr. Yepes shares his stories from studying in numerous programs around the globe and how they each played a role in his growth and network, highlighting how all of the experiences and relationships have shaped him as a teacher and professional. Guest Bio: Juan F. Yepes DDS, MD, MPH, MS, DrPH is a full professor in the Department of Pediatric Dentistry and the associate dean for graduate education at Indiana University School of Dentistry and an attending at Riley Children Hospital in Indianapolis, Indiana. Juan F. is a dentist (DDS) and a physician (MD) from Javeriana University at Bogotá, Colombia. In 1999, Juan F. moved to the USA and attended the University of Iowa and the University of Pennsylvania where he completed a fellowship and residency in Radiology and Oral Medicine respectively in 2002 and 2004. In 2006, Juan F. completed a Master in Public Health (MPH), and in 2011 a Doctoral Degree in Public Health (DrPH) both with emphasis in Epidemiology at the University of Kentucky College of Public Health. In 2008, Juan F. completed a residency program in Dental Public Health at University of Texas, Baylor College of Dentistry. Finally, Juan F. completed a residency program and a master in pediatric dentistry at the University of Kentucky in 2012. Juan F. is board-certified by the American Boards of Pediatric Dentistry, Oral Medicine, and Dental Public Health. He is an active member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, American Academy of Oral Medicine, American Academy of Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology, Indiana Dental Association, and American Dental Association. Juan F. is a fellow in dental surgery from the Royal College of Surgeons at Edinburgh. He is a member of the editorial board of Oral Surgery, Oral Medicine, Oral Pathology, and Oral Radiology. Finally, Juan F. is the associate editor of the Journal of the American Dental Association (JADA) and one of the directors/examiners of the American Board of Oral Medicine. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

West40's Dr. Mark Klaisner shares what he learned during a global education exchange in China—where ancient traditions meet cutting-edge innovation. If you are interested in learning more about West40's Global Connections program, please contact Stuart Brown at stuartbrown@west40.org

Host Alex Usher speaks with Dr. Pushkar about the shifting landscape of higher education in India. They examine a proposed new centralized regulator, ongoing funding challenges, and the growing divide between top institutions and the rest of the system.The episode also looks at the rise of foreign branch campuses, India's ambitions in AI education, and concerns about academic quality and research integrity.

Is AI actually making our kids smarter, or just better at cheating? In this episode of the BRAVE Southeast Asia Tech Podcast, Jeremy Au sits down with Adam (Huh Dam), co-founder of Stick ‘Em, a Singapore-based startup bringing affordable STEAM education to the world. From being rejected by his primary school robotics club to winning a $1 million prize in London, Adam shares his "rebel" journey through the Singapore education system (ACS Independent) and his mission to bridge the digital divide. We dive deep into the "disastrous" impact of increased screen time, the ethics of AI in homework, and why learning how to think is more important than ever in the age of autonomous agents. Discover: Why traditional EdTech might be "useless" for actual learning outcomes. The $1M journey: How two student founders from Singapore beat the world's best. How to scale a hardware-software startup across Southeast Asia. 00:00 – The Disaster of AI in Schools 01:32 – Meet Adam Huh Dam: The $1M Prize Winner 02:20 – Building a Mars Rover at Age 6 03:22 – Rejected! The Traumatic Entry into Robotics 04:31 – The "Rebel" Years: Finding Character in ACSI 05:40 – Student-Led Learning vs. Corporate Teaching 07:22 – Competing on the Global Stage (Vex Robotics) 08:51 – Meeting Co-founder Kai: The Creative & The Strategist 10:33 – Why EdTech? Choosing Impact Over Boston Dynamics 12:22 – The Reality of Building a Social Enterprise 14:18 – Scaling STEAM Education Across Borders 15:50 – Winning the $1M Prize: Authenticity Over Perfection 20:05 – Why Modern EdTech is Failing Students 23:33 – The "Brain Dead" Era: AI and the Death of Homework 27:39 – Will AI Replace Lawyers, Accountants, and Coders? 30:05 – Being Brave: The Lunch That Changed Everything 32:20 – Closing Thoughts: The Future is Human Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.bravesea.com/blog/adam-stickem-steam-education  Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at https://www.bravesea.com WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakR55X6BIElUEvkN02e TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter X : https://x.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea English: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Bahasa Indonesia: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Chinese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts #Singapore #EdTech #Startup #Podcast #southeastasia #techpodcast

Educational leadership is a tough challenge at the best of times, with many pressures from all sides. But particularly now, with so much shifting, high levels of uncertainty, and polarising issues at play, it's arguably an even rougher sea to navigate. In such a context, my guest this week has done an amazing job of gathering vital insights from 67 amazing education leaders around the world, herself included, to bring some collective wisdom to bear on the subject. Jennifer D. Klein is an author and former head of school with extensive international experience and over 30 years in education--including 19 in the classroom. She is a product of experiential project-based education herself, and she lives and breathes the student-centred pedagogies used to educate her. She became a teacher during graduate school in 1990, quickly finding the intersection between her love of writing and her fascination with educational transformation and its potential impact on social change. She spent nineteen years in the classroom, including several years in Costa Rica and eleven in all-girls education, before leaving the classroom to support educators' professional learning in public, private, and international schools. Motivated by her belief that all children deserve a meaningful, relevant education like the one she experienced herself, and that giving them such an education will catalyze positive change in their communities and beyond, Jennifer strives to inspire educators to shift their practices in schools worldwide.Jennifer has a broad background in global education and global partnership development, student-centered curricular strategies, diversity and inclusivity work, authentic assessment, and experiential, inquiry-driven learning. She has facilitated workshops in English and Spanish on four continents, providing the strategies for high-quality, globally connected project-based learning in all cultural and socioeconomic contexts, with an emphasis on amplifying student voice and shifting school culture to support such practices. She is committed to intersecting global student-centered learning with culturally responsive and anti-racist teaching practices, and her experience includes deep work with schools seeking to address equity, take on brave conversations, build healthier community, and improve identity politics on campus. Jennifer's first book, The Global Education Guidebook: Humanizing K–12 Classrooms Worldwide Through Equitable Partnerships, was published in 2017, and her second book, The Landscape Model of Learning: Designing Student-Centered Experiences for Cognitive and Cultural Inclusion, was released in 2022. Her third book, Taming the Turbulence in Educational Leadership: Doing Right by Learners without Losing your Job, to be released in September, 2025, is based on interviews with 67 educational leaders around the world who are facing resistance to practices they know are good for learners. Jennifer's experiences as a head of school in Colombia provide a through line as she explores the strategies leaders are using to manage resistance.Jennifer has worked with organizations such as the Buck Institute for Education, the Center for Global Education at the Asia Society, The Institute for International Education, Fulbright Japan, What School Could Be, the Centre for Global Education, TakingITGlobal, and the World Leadership School. Most recently, she served as Head of School at Gimnasio Los Caobos (Bogotá, Colombia) for three years, where she was able to put her educational thinking into practice with profound impact on the quality of student learning and their growth as agents of change.Links:Jennifer's website: https://www.principledlearning.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdeborahklein/

Host Alex Usher speaks with Jisun Jung, Associate Professor at the University of Hong Kong, about South Korea's fast-moving higher education policy landscape amid a steep youth-population decline. They discuss the “Zombie University” law encouraging struggling private institutions to close voluntarily through compensation tied to selling assets, while public universities are pushed to merge into larger regional flagships. Jung assesses Korea's rapid growth to 300,000 international students, warning that some regional institutions enroll students who primarily work. The conversation also covers the government's “10 Seoul National Universities” regional investment strategy, the prolonged medical student strike triggered by a sudden plan to add 3,000 medical seats, the Yonsei AI-cheating scandal and uneven institutional responses, heavy national investment aimed at becoming a top-three AI power, and the small but concerning right-wing youth movement dubbed “Freedom University.”

Host Alex Usher interviews Dr. Lily Yang (University of Hong Kong) about her book, Higher Education State and Society, comparing Chinese and Anglo-American higher education as distinct cultural worldviews rather than just systems. Yang argues cultural traditions shape how concepts like the person/individual, equity, society, and the public good are understood, and why key ideas do not translate cleanly across contexts. They discuss similarities and deeper differences in student development, contrasting human-capital and tuition-fee rationales with China's view of higher education as a state-supported apparatus serving broader social goods. Yang explains China's historically encompassing notion of state and society, differing meanings of liberty versus zhi (free will), and culturally bounded university autonomy and academic freedom. 

About Our GuestsDr. Brandon Ferderer is Head of Programming at Shared Studios and honors faculty at Arizona State University. A writer, performer, storyteller, and expert facilitator, Brandon holds a doctorate in intercultural communications from Arizona State University. His work spans private, education, and nonprofit sectors, harnessing communication technology to bridge cultural divides through dynamic educational and arts programs. His academic and creative works have been featured in Critical Studies in Media Communication and The Seventh Wave, and he has performed at the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, Phoenix Art Museum, the Moth Main Stage, and the Dixon Theater in New York City.Ross Phillips is a social studies teacher at Winnacunnet High School in Hampton, New Hampshire. Holding a master's degree in education from the University of New Hampshire, Ross is passionate about bringing the world into his classroom through live virtual connections. An avid world traveler who has explored Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Egypt, Italy, Iceland, and beyond, Ross uses real-world application to ignite students' curiosity for non-Western history, law, and geography.What Is Shared Studios?Shared Studios is best known for its immersive portals — repurposed shipping containers equipped with audiovisual technology that place users in a full-body, face-to-face conversation with someone in a similar container in one of 20–25 countries around the world. But at its core, Shared Studios is a network of people: trained facilitators and community members around the globe — from community activists to UN officials — brought together to create meaningful educational connections. Programming can be delivered through the immersive portal environment or via video conferencing.Key Topics DiscussedWhy immersive portals go beyond video conferencing Brandon explains that 65–75% of a message's meaning is communicated nonverbally. While video conferencing restored face-to-face visibility, it also introduced "Zoom fatigue" — the tendency to monitor how we appear to be connecting rather than actually connecting. The portal creates full-body presence and a sense of accountability to your conversational partner, which is essential for building genuine empathy.The origin story of Shared Studios Founder Amar Bakshi originally built the portal concept to help his grandmother feel connected to her native Pakistan — imagining her sharing a chai in a café. The first portals debuted at a New York art gallery and in Tehran, Iran, where the profound emotional responses (women dancing freely behind closed doors, a young man coming out) revealed the technology's transformative potential.How Ross uses the portal at Winnacunnet High School Ross has built years of relationships with curators in Mexico City, Kigali, and other sites. Students recognize facilitators by name, ask about their lives, and engage in deeply personal conversations — including discussions about the Rwandan genocide with survivors and their families, a topic directly tied to New Hampshire's state curriculum standards.The role of the facilitator On-site facilitators like Ross help students acclimate to the unique, distraction-free environment of the portal. The shared studios curators on the other end are trained to handle sensitive or culturally awkward moments as teachable opportunities rather than offenses — creating a space where students can "trip up" and grow.Reaching reluctant learners Rather than leading with heavy topics, Brandon and Ross recommend starting with common ground — video games, food, music, daily life. A memorable example: skeptical Arizona State students connected with young men in Herat, Afghanistan over football and video games, and ended up in a 45-minute conversation about U.S.-Afghan relations.Preparing students for cross-cultural conversations Shared Studios uses "shared understandings" drawn from the Mejlis style of dialogue — an approach rooted in Arab cultures emphasizing equity in speaking time, active listening, and respectful engagement. Brandon also discusses the importance of teaching students the difference between cultural relativism and universalism before entering conversations.Why distance learning matters Both guests emphasize that the problems facing the next generation — climate change, refugee crises, global poverty, genocide — are deeply interconnected and cannot be solved by any one nation or culture. Distance learning, especially in immersive forms, is how we build the global citizens equipped to meet those challenges together.Quotable Moments"Video conferencing has been really great for connecting us. It has not been so good at creating connection between us." — Dr. Brandon Ferderer"I've never walked away from a connection being like, 'Well, that didn't go well.' There's always a nugget." — Ross Phillips"We have to find ways to put young people into conversation with people who are different than them... distance learning is the way that we do that." — Dr. Brandon FerdererResources & LinksShared StudiosWinnacunnet High SchoolFind all episode links and visuals at cilc.org/podcastHost links:Discover more virtual learning opportunities at CILC.org with hosts Tami Moehring and Allyson Mitchell.Seth Fleischauer's Banyan Global Learning combines live virtual field trips with international student collaborations for a unique K12 global learning experience. See https://banyangloballearning.com/global-learning-live/Enjoyed this episode? Tell a friend, follow the podcast, and leave us a review! Editing by Lucas Salazar.

In this episode of The World of Higher Education Podcast, host Alex Usher speaks with Saeid Golkar, Professor of Political Science at the University of Tennessee Chattanooga, about the structure, politics, and recent turmoil within Iran's higher education system. The conversation explores how Iran built a large but highly centralized university system, the role of elite public institutions and the vast semi-private sector such as the Islamic Azad University, and the state's extensive ideological oversight of universities.Golkar also discusses the surprising rise of Iran as a major contributor to global scientific output in the early 2000s and the more recent challenges facing the sector—including demographic decline, economic pressures, and a growing brain drain. The episode examines the historical and ongoing role of students in Iranian politics, from the 1979 revolution to the protests of recent decades, and how universities have become key sites of political dissent. Together they unpack the complex relationship between higher education, state power, and social change in contemporary Iran.

The Alliance for Civics in the Academy hosted "How Can Universities Strengthen Civic Education in K–12 Schools?" with Jennifer McNabb, Joshua Dunn, and Jenna Storey on March 4, 2026, from 9:00-10:00 a.m. PT. Universities are increasingly reexamining their role as incubators of effective citizenship. An essential yet often overlooked part of this work is strengthening K–12 civic education. This webinar explores how efforts within higher education can support civic learning in K–12 schools, with particular emphasis on the academy's role in training the next generation of educators. ABOUT THE SPEAKERS Meira Levinson is a political theorist/philosopher of education who is working to start a global field of educational ethics that is philosophically rigorous, disciplinarily and experientially inclusive, and both relevant to and informed by educational policy and practice. In doing so, she draws upon scholarship from multiple disciplines as well as her eight years of experience teaching middle school humanities, civics, history, and English in the Atlanta and Boston Public Schools.  Meira has written or co-edited nine books, including Civic Contestation in Global Education and Educational Equity in a Global Context (both 2024, with Ellis Reid, Tatiana Geron, and Sara O'Brien), Instructional Moves for Powerful Teaching in Higher Education (2023, co-authored with Jeremy Murphy), Democratic Discord in Schools (2019, with Jacob Fay), winner of the 2020 AERA Moral Development and Education SIG Outstanding Book Award, and Dilemmas of Educational Ethics (2016, with Jacob Fay). Her book No Citizen Left Behind (2012) won awards in political science, philosophy, social studies, and education and has been translated into Chinese and Japanese. Meira shares educational ethics resources on JusticeinSchools.org, materials to support K-12 educators working in politically charged environments at Educational Values in Action, and resources for youth activists and teacher allies at YouthinFront.org. Each of these projects reflects Levinson's commitment to achieving productive cross-fertilization — without loss of rigor — among scholarship, policy, and practice. Meira earned a B.A. in philosophy from Yale and a D.Phil. in politics from Nuffield College, Oxford University. Her work has been supported by fellowships from Guggenheim, the Edmond & Lily Safra Center for Ethics at Harvard, Harvard Radcliffe Institute, and the National Academy of Education. Prior to joining the Stanford faculty, Meira taught at the Harvard Graduate School of Education. Jennifer McNabb is Professor and Head of the Department of History at the University of Northern Iowa, where she teaches courses on early modern European history and the history of England. She was Co-Chair of UNI's Civic Education Task Force, which created UNI's Center for Civic Education, and she was Co-PI for a National Endowment for the Humanities Connections Grant that developed UNI's first civic education curriculum: "Civic Literacy, Engagement and the Humanities." McNabb is also a Co-PI of a national grant that will establish the Iowa Civic Educators Institute, providing professional development opportunities for in-service and pre-service social studies and history teachers throughout the state. McNabb has received several awards for her teaching and has completed four courses for The Teaching Company's The Great Courses on the Renaissance, witchcraft, sex, and marriage. She currently serves as a Councilor in the Professional Division of the American Historical Association and as president of the Midwest Conference on British Studies. Joshua Dunn (PhD, University of Virginia) serves as Executive Director of the Institute of American Civics at the Howard H. Baker School of Public Policy and Public Affairs at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. His research and teaching focus on constitutional law and history, education policy, federalism, and freedom of speech and religion. His books include Complex Justice: The Case of Missouri v. Jenkins (University of North Carolina Press), From Schoolhouse to Courthouse: The Judiciary's Role in American Education (Brookings Institution Press) and Passing on the Right: Conservative Professors in the Progressive University (Oxford University Press).  Moderator Jenna Silber Storey is the Ravenel Curry Chair in Civic Thought in the Social, Cultural, and Constitutional Studies Division of the American Enterprise Institute, and Co-Director of AEI's Center for the Future of the American University.  She is also an SNF Agora Fellow at Johns Hopkins University and a Research Fellow at the Civitas Institute at the University of Texas at Austin.  She previously taught political philosophy at Furman University, where she was an Assistant Professor in the Department of Politics and International Affairs, and Executive Director of Furman's Tocqueville Program.  Her writing has appeared in outlets such as The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal, The Boston Globe, The Chronicle of Higher Education, Inside Higher Ed, First Things, and The National Endowment for the Humanities flagship journal, Humanities.  Dr. Storey is the co-author, with her husband Ben, of Why We Are Restless:  On the Modern Quest for Contentment (Princeton University Press, 2021).  They are currently working on a book titled The Art of Choosing: How Liberal Education Should Prepare You for Life.

On July 9, 2011, South Sudan officially becomes an independent nation, making it the world's youngest country. For two years there was relative peace and growing prosperity, but in 2013 a civil war broke out creating a massive humanitarian crisis. 13 years later the country is still reeling from ethnic tensions, political maneuvering, civil war over failed promises and now a nation that is considered a fallen state. On this episode of Closer to the Fire, Greg Musselman talks with Stephen Wesley. Stephen is the Director of Global Education and Discipleship for the Voice of the Martyrs Canada and recently went traveled to South Sudan along with two VOM Canada parters to encourage, teach (The Theology of Persecution and Discipleship) and provide trauma counselling to our brothers and sisters in Christ in South Sudan who have endured so much. Length 52 minutes Episode Notes To watch the interview with Stephen Wesley https://vomcanada.com/cttf-videos/video/cttf-ss-2026-03-05.htm The Persecution and Prayer Alert (weekly email) https://store.vomcanada.org/subscribe#q40771 The Voice of the Martyrs Canada www.vomcanada.org

In this episode of the World of Higher Education Podcast, host Alex Usher speaks with Georgi Stoytchev about the structure and future of higher education in Bulgaria.They discuss how the system evolved after the fall of socialism, the role of the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences as the country's main research hub, and Bulgaria's distinctive national university ranking system, which uses administrative and graduate earnings data and is linked to performance-based funding.The conversation also touches on a recent tuition fee controversy, the involvement of Gen Z in anti-corruption protests, and the demographic pressures that are likely to shape the future of Bulgarian higher education.

John Maytham speaks to Dr Nic Spaull, Senior Program Officer in the Global Education team at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, who brings expert insight on early literacy, interventions, and strategies to support teachers and learners. Presenter John Maytham is an actor and author-turned-talk radio veteran and seasoned journalist. His show serves a round-up of local and international news coupled with the latest in business, sport, traffic and weather. The host’s eclectic interests mean the program often surprises the audience with intriguing book reviews and inspiring interviews profiling artists. A daily highlight is Rapid Fire, just after 5:30pm. CapeTalk fans call in, to stump the presenter with their general knowledge questions. Another firm favourite is the humorous Thursday crossing with award-winning journalist Rebecca Davis, called “Plan B”. Thank you for listening to a podcast from Afternoon Drive with John Maytham Listen live on Primedia+ weekdays from 15:00 and 18:00 (SA Time) to Afternoon Drive with John Maytham broadcast on CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show go to https://buff.ly/BSFy4Cn or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/n8nWt4x Subscribe to the CapeTalk Daily and Weekly Newsletters https://buff.ly/sbvVZD5 Follow us on social media: CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

GPPR Senior Podcast Editor Daija Yisrael (MIDP '26) and GPPR Strategic Partnerships Lead Doris Mwikali (MPM '26) spoke with Charles North, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Global Partnership for Education, about leadership in global education. The podcast explores how global education leaders navigate complexity, build coalitions, and mobilize innovative financing to support quality education in low-income countries. Through reflections on leadership, youth demographics, and institutional change, the episode highlights why education remains a critical public policy priority as we approach 2030.

In this episode, Rick shares his interview with Scott Marshall, President & CEO of the Institute for Shipboard Education and host of the As Unexpected Podcast.Scott reflects on how a formative study abroad experience in Japan sparked his lifelong commitment to global education and cross-cultural understanding. He shares his journey from academia to leading Semester at Sea, the world's leading comparative study abroad program, and explains how immersive travel builds empathy, challenges assumptions, and deepens human connection. Together, they explore leadership, purpose, and why experiencing the world firsthand is more important than ever in an increasingly divided and digital age.This episode is a MUST-LISTEN!

In this episode of the World of Higher Education Podcast, host Alex Usher speaks with Donatella della Porta, Professor of Political Science at the Scuola Normale Superiore in Florence, about the global rise of youth- and Gen Z-led protest movements.From Serbia and Bangladesh to Italy and beyond, they explore why today's movements are increasingly described as “Gen Z protests” rather than traditional student uprisings. Donatella argues that this generation has come of age during a period of “polycrisis”—climate change, economic instability, war, democratic backsliding, and corruption—which has shaped a distinctive form of activism rooted in injustice, inequality, and uncertainty about the future.The conversation examines how social media enables rapid, leader-light mobilization across borders, why universities may be losing their historic role as hubs of political socialization, and how online and offline organizing now work together. They also discuss the Gaza protests, differences between North America and Europe, and the evolving relationship between campuses, repression, and broader civil society movements.

What if leadership isn't about confidence or visibility—but about building systems that expand access for others? In this episode, you'll meet Jiayuan Tian, a social entrepreneur and graduate student at Columbia University SIPA, whose journey through global education reshaped how he understands inequality, opportunity, and leadership. After studying at Minerva University and living across cities around the world, Jiayuan discovered a paradox: the more global his education became, the clearer it was how inaccessible global learning remains for many, often due to invisible barriers like language fluency, insider knowledge, and financial flexibility.That realization led him to co-found OneXplore, a youth-led organization designed to make global learning accessible and humane. Jiayuan shares how his view of leadership has evolved—from personal visibility to leadership as infrastructure: platforms, systems, and cultures that continue to serve people even when the founder steps away. You'll hear why access itself is a leadership issue, why storytelling carries responsibility, and why leadership is always relational. This episode will invite you to rethink how you design opportunities, support young people, and build organizations that endure through shared ownership and trust. Under Jiayuan's leadership, OneXplore has grown into a community of more than 100,000 young people, with partnerships spanning universities, international organizations, embassies, and global nonprofits.You'll discover: How leadership can function as infrastructure, not personalityWhy access—not talent—is often the real barrier to opportunityWhat young leaders need most from mentors and employersHow trust and storytelling shape sustainable organizationsWhy community is foundational to effective leadershipConnect with Jiayuan TianLinkedInCheck out all the episodesLeave a review on Apple PodcastsConnect with Meredith on LinkedIn

Today we unpack the past, present and future global education landscape, looking at various international organizations. My guest is Christian Ydesen, Professor in History of Education and Education Policy Analysis at the University of Zurich. He has written extensively on global education governance and will be running an international summer school this July that will unpack the theories, histories, and actors within the global education landscape. You can find more details about the summer school he is organizing at freshedpodcast.com/summerschool. freshedpodcast.com/ydesen/ -- Get in touch! LinkedIn: @FreshEdpodcast Facebook: FreshEd Email: info@freshedpodcast.com

In this episode of the World of Higher Education Podcast, host Alex Usher is joined by Simon Marginson, Emeritus Professor of Higher Education at Oxford University, to discuss his new book 'Global Higher Education in Times of Upheaval: On Common Goods, Geopolitics and Decolonization.' They cover a range of topics, including the rise of right-wing nationalism, China's scientific advancement, and the challenges posed by neoliberalism and neocolonialism to the higher education sector. Simon emphasizes the need for higher education to be oriented towards the common good and discusses the distinctions between public goods and common goods in this context. The conversation explores the differences between higher education systems in the Anglosphere and other parts of the world, as well as the implications of internationalization versus globalization.

We delve into the stark realities of learning inequality, the crucial role of the science of teaching, and the transformative power of education, even in the face of conflict. Dr. Asyia Kazmi, CEO of WISE (World Innovation Summit for Education), an organization that is part of the Qatar Foundation, helps us explore the challenges and solutions in global education. As a former math teacher, Dr. Kazmi offers specific, evidence-based strategies for improving learning outcomes — including the concept of structured pedagogy — and discusses the nuances of AI and education, urging caution and the need for region-specific, full-stack solutions. Dr. Kazmi emphasizes that improving learning (not just access to schooling) must be the primary goal for policy. She confronts the notion that poverty is an insurmountable barrier to educational success, asserting that educators have a deep responsibility to provide a pathway out of poverty for low-income students. The conversation also delves into the unique challenges of the Arab world, highlighting the 60% learning poverty rate in our region. This episode was produced in collaboration with Qatar Foundation.Find out more about WISE

In this episode of the Shift AI Podcast, Patrick Supanc, Chief Product Officer at Coursera, joins host Boaz Ashkenazy for an in-depth conversation on how AI is transforming education, workforce skills, and lifelong learning at a global scale.Patrick shares his deeply personal and unconventional journey—from growing up as the son of two educators and immigrating to the U.S., to working in public policy at the World Bank, having a formative experience in a rural classroom in Brazil, and ultimately transitioning into education technology. The conversation dives into how baseline AI literacy is rapidly becoming essential for everyone, not just technologists. Patrick explains how learner demand on Coursera has surged, with AI enrollments accelerating and shifting from introductory content toward more advanced topics like agentic AI, orchestration, and role-specific application of AI tools.Boaz and Patrick explore how large language models are being integrated directly into learning experiences through Coursera Coach—an AI-powered tutor designed to deliver personalized, efficient, and high-integrity learning. Patrick outlines why memory, contextual relevance, fast feedback loops, and verified assessments are critical for adult learners who need to upskill quickly while balancing real-world constraints.Finally, the episode looks ahead to the future of education and work, touching on global access, AI-powered translation and dubbing, voice-based interaction, role-play simulations, and the potential role of avatars. Patrick closes by framing the future as “skills-first and accessible,” underscoring Coursera's mission to ensure that verified, job-relevant skills are available to learners everywhere.This episode is essential listening for founders, operators, educators, and professionals who want to understand how AI is reshaping not just productivity, but the entire learning and workforce ecosystem.Chapters[00:00] From Educators to EdTech: Patrick's Journey to Coursera[04:24] AI Literacy as the New Baseline Skill[07:18] The Rapid Rise of AI Learning Demand on Coursera[08:17] From Intro to Agentic AI: How Learner Needs Are Evolving[11:22] Tracking Skills at Scale with Coursera's Career Graph[14:31] Coursera Coach: AI Tutors, Personalization, and Memory[17:32] Learning by Doing: Role Play, Labs, and Real-World Practice[19:41] Anxiety, Relevance, and the Need for Continuous Upskilling[21:31] Helping Learners Navigate an Uncertain Career Future[24:31] Global Access: Translation, Dubbing, and Emerging Markets[26:21] Voice, Avatars, and New Interaction Models in Learning[28:49] Andrew Ng's Influence on Coursera and AI in Education[30:26] The Future of Work and Learning: Skills-First and AccessibleConnect with Patrick SupancLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patricksupanc/Connect with Boaz AshkenazyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/boazashkenazy/Email: info@shiftai.fm

In this episode of the World of Higher Education Podcast, host Alex Usher is joined by Bryan Alexander, the author of 'Peak Higher Ed: How to Survive the Looming Academic Crisis.' They discuss the challenges facing higher education in the United States including demographic shifts, public skepticism, and the impact of AI on education. Bryan elaborates on the peak of growth around 2012 and the subsequent decline, as well as potential strategies for institutions to adapt and survive this crisis. The conversation also touches on the political landscape, economic pressures, and the future of higher education. 

Equitable, inclusive, and quality education requires applying the latest science to teaching policy and practice, says Annie Brookman-Byrne. Read the article on BOLD.Stay up to date with all the latest research on child development and learning at boldscience.org.Join the conversation on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn.Subscribe to BOLD's newsletter.

In this episode of Disruption/Interruption, KJ sits down with Colin Cooper, CEO and co-founder of Illuminate XR, to explore the massive skills gap threatening our workforce. With over 100 companies under his belt and thousands of global hires, Colin has witnessed firsthand how our 200-year-old education system is failing to prepare people for today's AI-driven world. Discover how immersive technology, emotional intelligence training, and personalized learning are revolutionizing the way humans learn, and why the next few years will determine whether we step into the "age of humanity" or fall behind forever. Four Key Takeaways The Education System Is 200 Years Behind (4:42) Our schools still operate on an industrial-age factory model designed to create compliant workers, not creative thinkers. Classrooms haven't fundamentally changed in over 1,000 years, and curriculum remains rooted in preparing students for a world that no longer exists. Meet Learners Where They Are (7:40)Real learning happens when you reduce cortisol and increase dopamine by connecting education to personal interests. Whether it's tailoring physics lessons to football or basketball, or using horses to teach emotional intelligence, personalization is the key to engagement and retention. AI Should Amplify, Not Replace (20:05) The future isn't about AI replacing teachers or workers—it's about using AI as a personal assistant to handle repetitive tasks. Start by identifying one repetitive task in your job and automate it with AI tools like ChatGPT, Claude, or Perplexity. We're Living Through 25 Years of Progress Every Year (29:20)The convergence of AI and VR—technologies that shouldn't have merged for another 15-20 years—has compressed innovation timelines. What used to take 10-15 years to bring to market now takes weeks. The next 3-4 years will be transformative, and we have one shot to get it right. Quote of the Show (29:40):"When a year goes by, you normally get one year's worth of progress, but where we're at today, a year goes by and it's like 20 to 25 years of technology growth." – Colin Cooper Join our Anti-PR newsletter where we’re keeping a watchful and clever eye on PR trends, PR fails, and interesting news in tech so you don't have to. You're welcome. Want PR that actually matters? Get 30 minutes of expert advice in a fast-paced, zero-nonsense session from Karla Jo Helms, a veteran Crisis PR and Anti-PR Strategist who knows how to tell your story in the best possible light and get the exposure you need to disrupt your industry. Click here to book your call: https://info.jotopr.com/free-anti-pr-eval Ways to connect with Colin Cooper:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/colinmbcooper/Company Website: https://illuminatexr.com How to get more Disruption/Interruption: Amazon Music - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/eccda84d-4d5b-4c52-ba54-7fd8af3cbe87/disruption-interruptionApple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/disruption-interruption/id1581985755Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6yGSwcSp8J354awJkCmJlDSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join Alex Usher on The World of Higher Education Podcast as he dives into the remarkable transformation of Uzbekistan's higher education system over the past decade. Komiljon Karimov, Rector of Westminster International University in Tashkent, shares his unique perspective on the fivefold expansion, the role of foreign universities, and the challenges of maintaining quality amidst rapid growth. Discover how Uzbekistan's new leadership and demographic changes sparked a massive overhaul, transforming the country into a burgeoning hub for higher education. Don't miss this in-depth discussion on one of the most extraordinary educational reforms of recent times.

In an increasingly globalized and networked economy, it is important to help students develop intercultural competence. In this episode, Josh McKeown and Christina Lee join us to discuss how two institutions are working together on a grant-funded collaborative exchange experience involving STEM students and faculty in the U.S., South Korea, and Taiwan. Josh is the Associate Provost for International Education and Programs and the Director of the Office of International Education and Programs here at SUNY-Oswego. Christina is the Director of Global Education and International Services at Monroe Community College. A transcript of this episode and show notes may be found at http://teaforteaching.com.

Join Alex Usher on The World of Higher Education Podcast as he engages in a compelling discussion with Frank Ziegele, Executive Director of the Center for Higher Education in Germany. They delve into the intricacies of creating authentic missions for universities in a constantly evolving educational landscape. Ziegele sheds light on his book, 'Authentic Universities: Effective University Identities in Times of Transition,' discussing the importance of differentiation and authenticity. They explore the challenges and strategies for institutions to adopt distinctive missions, the role of government in encouraging diversity in education, and much more. Tune in to explore the complexities and opportunities of authentic university missions.00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:32 Guest Introduction: Frank Ziegele01:45 The Importance of Differentiation in Higher Education02:10 Challenges and Opportunities in University Missions04:17 Spotting Authentic Differentiation05:15 Strategies for Authentic University Profiles07:53 Government's Role in University Differentiation09:12 Examples of Horizontal Differentiation12:01 Implementing Differentiation Strategies14:58 Overcoming Faculty Silos17:47 Pitfalls in Developing Authentic Profiles21:59 Global Perspectives on Differentiation22:22 Reception and Impact of the Book24:33 Conclusion and Farewell

In this episode of The World of Higher Education Podcast, Alex Usher discusses the unconventional structure and innovative approaches of Royal Roads University in Greater Victoria, British Columbia, with its President, Philip Steenkamp. Celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, Royal Roads was originally a military college and has since evolved into a unique institution focusing on mid-career professionals, blending online and in-person education. Unlike traditional universities, it lacks a senate, does not offer conventional tenure, and operates with significant market orientation due to lower government funding. Philip elaborates on the university's response to financial challenges, initiatives in international education, and the recent opening of a new campus in Langford, aimed at undergraduate programs. He also shares valuable insights on their new transnational education venture in Dubai and strategies to maintain the university's competitiveness and sustainability.

Cette fois-ci, nous avons le plaisir d'accueillir Julien Lannette, Global Education Director au sein de la maison Longchamp.Dans cet épisode, on se plonge dans un parcours à la croisée de l'art, de la mode et de la transmission, où le fil rouge n'est pas le produit… mais l'humain.✨ Ce qui nous a particulièrement marqué dans cet échange :

In this episode of the Arizona Civics Podcast, host Liz Evans is joined by Dr. Tim Hall, educator and founder of Religion Matters, for a thoughtful conversation on religious literacy—what it is, why it matters, and how it can be taught responsibly in public schools.Dr. Hall explains how religious literacy helps students better understand history, civic life, global affairs, and one another in a pluralistic democracy. The conversation explores constitutional guardrails, classroom strategies, and trusted resources for educators who want to approach religion academically, not devotionally.What You'll LearnWhat religious literacy means in a public school contextWhy religion is essential to understanding history, civics, and global issuesHow religious literacy supports global competence and civic engagementConstitutional guidelines for teaching about religion in K–12 classroomsThe Six-Point Framework and the “lived religion” approachWhy the Scopes Trial still matters nearly 100 years laterTrusted, classroom-ready resources for educatorsResources & Links Mentioned in the EpisodeCore Religious Literacy & Civics ResourcesNational Council for the Social Studies (NCSS) – Religious Studies Companion to the C3 Framework https://www.socialstudies.orgFirst Amendment Center – Guidelines for Teaching About Religion https://www.freedomforum.orgAmerican Academy of Religion (AAR) – Definition of Religious Literacy https://www.aarweb.orgPew Research Center – Religion & Public Life https://www.pewresearch.org/religionTeaching & Curriculum ResourcesTanbaum Center for Interreligious Understanding https://tanbaumcenter.orgHarvard Divinity School – Religion and Public Life https://rpl.hds.harvard.eduReligion & Education Collaborative https://religionandeducationcollaborative.orgReligion Matters (Dr. Tim Hall) https://religionmatters.orgGlobal Competence ResourcesWorld Savvy https://www.worldsavvy.orgAsia Society – Center for Global Education https://asiasociety.org/educationProject Zero (Harvard Graduate School of Education) https://pz.harvard.eduHistorical & Civic ReferencesThe Scopes Trial (1925) – Religion, science, and public educationDeclaration of Independence – Religious influences on the FoundersFirst Amendment Religion Cases – Including cases related to the Pledge of Allegiance The Arizona Constitution ProjectCheck Out Our Free Lessons on Arizona History and Government!Follow us on:TwitterLinked InInstagramFacebookYouTubeWebsiteInterested in a Master's Degree? Check out the School of Civic and Economic Leadership's Master's in Classical Liberal Education and Leadership

Join Alex Usher in a compelling interview with Noah Sobe, UNESCO's Chief of Section for Higher Education, as they discuss UNESCO's historic and evolving role in global higher education. Explore the organization's foundational goals post-World War II, its normative and operational functions, and groundbreaking initiatives like the Global Convention on Higher Education. Discover how UNESCO balances public good with market realities, prioritizes inclusive education, and shapes international academic standards.

Have questions, feedback, or thoughts on the show? We want to hear from you! Click on this link to send us a text message. In this episode of the Whole Grain Podcast, host Jim Lenz, Director of Global Education and Training at GEAPS, talks with Kyle Dixon, Vice President of Sales at IBT Industrial Solutions, about how grain facilities can do more with less—while improving reliability, uptime, and long-term value.Kyle brings a rare perspective, having served as an IBT sales rep, regional manager, and now VP of Sales. He shares practical insights on proactive maintenance, simplifying storerooms, using technology wisely, and supporting a changing workforce. The focus is on real-world solutions grain professionals can apply immediately.Key Takeaways (Condensed)Doing more with less means maximizing capability—not cutting cornersProactive maintenance reduces downtime and riskSimple changes can deliver big operational winsTechnology works best alongside hands-on observationEducation and supplier partnerships strengthen today's workforceSuppliers can act as an extension of customer teamsFeatured PartnerIBT Industrial Solutions is a GEAPS Premier Partner supporting grain operations with engineering expertise and responsive MRO solutions.IBT Industrial Solutions: https://www.ibtinc.com/IBT Grain Industry Solutions: https://www.ibtinc.com/industries/grain/Past Whole Grain Podcast Episodes Featuring IBT GuestsKeeping Grain Moving: Preventative Maintenance and Supplier Tipshttps://www.geaps.com/news-publications/whole-grain-podcast/keeping-grain-moving-preventative-maintenance-and-supplier-tips/Everything from Conveyor Belting to Buckets with a 30-Year Grain Pro https://www.geaps.com/news-publications/whole-grain-podcast/everything-from-conveyor-belting-to-buckets-with-a-30-year-grain-pro/Pillars of the Grain Industryhttps://www.geaps.com/news-publications/whole-grain-podcast/pillars-of-the-grain-industry/GEAPS Education & EventsGEAPS Conveyor Training (Hands-On Programs): https://www.geaps.com/events-meetings/conveyor-training/GEAPS Online Learning: https://www.geaps.com/training-education/online-learning/GEAPS Exchange: https://www.geaps.com/exchange/Grain Elevator and Processing Society champions, connects and serves the global grain industry and its members. Be sure to visit GEAPS' website to learn how you can grow your network, support your personal professional development, and advance your career. Thank you for listening to another episode of GEAPS' Whole Grain podcast.

Could blending global awareness with local relevance enhance our students' ability to develop true global understanding and empathy? Our guest, Erin E.H. Austin models this “glocal” approach. Erin is a U.S. National Board Certified French teacher, an author and an NEA Foundation grant reviewer who presents nationally on Global Education, mentors National Board Certification candidates and serves on the board of a yoga-based non-profit in Wisconsin whose mission is to bring yoga to those with financial or geographic barriers.Guiding Question: “How can international educators deepen their classroom efforts to 'go global' with their students?”Resources: Erin shared so many helpful resources that our word count exceeded the limits for podcassting apps show notes! So we've compiled them in this Google Doc for those who would like to further explore these ideas.Recorded: July 11, 2025. Categories: Curriculum | Global Education | Teacher Entrepreneurs Remember to access our Educators Going Global website for more information and consider joining our Patreon community at patreon/educatorsgoingglobal!Email us with comments or suggestions at educatorsgoingglobal@gmail.com Follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram or YouTube.Listen on your favorite podcast app: connect from our share page.Music: YouTube. (2022). Acoustic Guitar | Folk | No copyright | 2022❤️. YouTube. Retrieved October 11, 2022, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YOEmg_6i7jA.

In the final episode of 2025, host Alex Usher welcomes Robert Kelchen, a recurring favorite guest, to discuss the top 10 issues in American higher education over the past year. They cover a wide array of topics such as state funding for public higher education, efforts to dismantle the US Department of Education, rising athletic spending, DEI and admissions, the impact of artificial intelligence, international student enrollment trends, state-level DEI policies, and the challenges faced by university leadership. Additionally, they delve into the One Beautiful Bill Act and the Trump administration's higher education compact. Don't miss this comprehensive look into the major developments and challenges in the world of higher education in 2025.

Join Tiffany MacLennan on the World of Higher Education Podcast as she interviews Alex Usher, President and CEO of Higher Education Strategy Associates, about their comprehensive report: The World of Higher Education — Year in Review 2025. This episode delves into the major global forces affecting higher education, including politics, demography, technology, and policy neglect. Understand the impacts of U.S. political upheavals, demographic declines, and rising private education in Western Europe. Learn which countries are emerging as bright spots and the fault lines to watch for in 2026.

Have questions, feedback, or thoughts on the show? We want to hear from you! Click on this link to send us a text message. In this episode of the Whole Grain Podcast, host Jim Lenz, Director of Global Education and Training at GEAPS, sits down with Dr. Gretchen Mosher, Associate Professor in the Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering at Iowa State University. Dr. Mosher is a nationally recognized expert on grain quality, measurement systems, and safety management — and her research reveals why testing is one of the most powerful tools grain handlers have for protecting quality, reducing risk, and making informed operational decisions.Key TakeawaysTesting is about information — not punishment.Testing provides actionable data that helps grain handlers make better decisions about drying, storing, blending, and shipping products. It validates when quality is on target and identifies small issues before they become costly problems.A strong testing strategy is essential risk management.Most grain quality or safety failures start small. Routine sampling and testing catch issues early, protect millions of dollars in inventory, and support compliance with FSMA and other regulatory requirements.Both incoming and outgoing testing matter.Testing inbound grain establishes a baseline. Testing outbound grain provides documentation and leverage when customers question quality — proving the product met standards when it left the facility.Consistency is king: garbage in, garbage out.Valid sampling procedures are the foundation of trustworthy data. Inconsistent sampling or uncalibrated equipment create errors that distort results.Composite sampling and two-tiered testing improve reliability.Small samples collected over time create an accurate picture of quality. Simple rapid tests help flag samples needing deeper analysis.Testing data only has value if you use it.Data that's collected but ignored is wasted investment. Facilities should use test results to guide blending, storage decisions, aeration, safety controls, and customer allocation.Good testing protects export markets.Documentation proves that grain marketed as non-GMO, food-grade, or identity-preserved was handled correctly.Future technologies will enhance sampling — not replace judgment.Machine vision, sensors, and automated systems are improving sampling accuracy, but the core purpose remains the same: better information for better decisions.Pull Quotes“Testing gives you information — and people make better decisions when they have better data.”“Most big problems in grain start small. Testing helps you catch them early.”“Garbage in, garbage out. Consistent sampling is the key to reliable results.”“If you collect data and don't use it, you might as well put a pile of money on the floor and light it on fire.”“You have total control over the quality of your data.”Important Links & Related EpisodesIowa State University Department of Agricultural and Biosystems EngineeringIntroduction to Grain Quality Management (GEAPS Online Course)Grain Elevator and Processing Society champions, connects and serves the global grain industry and its members. Be sure to visit GEAPS' website to learn how you can grow your network, support your personal professional development, and advance your career. Thank you for listening to another episode of GEAPS' Whole Grain podcast.

Today we explore foundational learning in low and middle income countries. My guest is Michelle Kaffenberger. Michelle Kaffenberger is the Director of evidence translation at the What Works Hub for Global Education the University of Oxford. I Spoke with her on the sidelines of the Development and Education Conference (DevEd) held in Melbourne, Australia last week. https://freshedpodcast.com/kaffenberger/ -- Get in touch! Twitter: @FreshEdpodcast Facebook: FreshEd Email: info@freshedpodcast.com

The book The Commodification of American Education: Persistent Threats and Paths Forward includers a powerful chapter written by Denisha Jones in which she writes, "To protect childhood, we must resist GERM and all its manifestations in early childhood education." In this episode, host Heather Bernt-Santy has a conversation with Denisha about what this means, why we need to do more than just resist, and the impacts for children if we do not take action. Have you ordered Heather's book Using Schema Play Theory to Advocate for Free Play in Early Childhood yet? It's available on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Bookshop.org, or you can order directly from the publisher on the Teachers College Press website.  Thanks for listening! Save 10% on professional development from Explorations Early Learning and support the show with the coupon code NERD. Like the show? Consider supporting our work by becoming a Patron, shopping our Amazon Link, or sharing it with someone who might enjoy it. You can leave a comment or ask a question here. Click here for more Heather. For a small fee we can issue self-study certificates for listening to podcasts.

In this special episode of The Autism Little Learners Podcast, I'm celebrating 10 years of Sesame Workshop's Autism Initiative and the creation of the beloved character, Julia! I had the absolute joy of sitting down with Kama Einhorn and Dr. Abigail Bucuvalas from Sesame Workshop to talk about the incredible impact of authentic representation, inclusion, and collaboration with the autism community. We dive into how Julia was created to truly reflect the experiences of autistic children and families, the thoughtful research that goes into every Sesame Workshop project, and the global reach of their work. You'll also hear about puppeteer Stacey Gordon—whose personal connection to autism brings such authenticity to Julia's voice—and some exciting new projects on the horizon that continue to celebrate acceptance, understanding, and belonging for all children. Key Takeaways: Sesame Workshop's Autism Initiative has been making an impact for a decade. Julia was created to reflect the experiences of autistic children and promote understanding. Collaboration with autistic individuals, families, and experts is central to Sesame Workshop's process. Representation in media helps normalize conversations about autism and inclusion. Puppeteer Stacey Gordon brings personal insight and authenticity to Julia's character. Every piece of content is research-based and tested before release. The team continually evolves to ensure portrayals of autism are authentic and neurodiversity-affirming. Julia's story continues to grow — showing her friendships, family life, and even her communication with an AAC device. Free, bilingual resources are available for families at SesameWorkshop.org/Autism. The Autism Initiative has had a global impact, expanding to shows like Sisimpur in Bangladesh. Guest Bios: Before we jump in, I'd love to tell you a bit more about today's guests, Kama and Abby. Kama Einhorn As Senior Director of Content Design for Sesame Workshop's Global Education group, Kama Einhorn develops multimedia resources for children, parents, and providers. Before joining the Workshop in 2004, she wrote and edited early childhood teaching resources for Scholastic. Kama holds a master's degree in education from the University of California at Berkeley. Dr. Abigail Bucuvalas Dr. Abigail Bucuvalas is the Senior Director of Curriculum and Programs in the Global Education Department at Sesame Workshop. In this role, she leads the processes for curriculum development and program design, collaborates on monitoring and evaluation, and develops new project concepts within the areas of nature, health, and social norms and inclusion. Previously, she led education activities for LEGO Foundation-funded work in development and crisis-affected settings, managed educational content and partnerships for the Nigerian co-production of Sesame Street, and directed a professional development project for teachers in Ghana. Before joining Sesame Workshop, Abigail collaborated on health research in the U.S. and abroad, funded by the American Cancer Society and the National Institutes of Health. She holds an Ed.D. in Health Education and an Ed.M. in International Educational Development from Teachers College, Columbia University, and an A.B. in Psychology from Harvard University. Learn More: Explore all of Sesame Workshop's autism resources and celebrate Julia's 10th anniversary at www.sesameworkshop.org/autism.

I was 15 years old and I did not know who I wasMadina Maishanu speaks to Malala Yousafzai, the global education activist, about the public life that has defined her, and her search for her own identity. In a deeply personal interview, Malala Yousafzai reveals the legacy of her teenage years - as the spirited girl who took on the Taliban and nearly lost her life, then the Nobel Prize-winning advocate for girls everywhere to go to school. People think they know you, she says, but I did not know who I was. Now, aged 28, she reveals the lasting impact on her mental health and how she's been helped by therapy and by friendship, putting the loneliness of her teens behind her.For Malala Yousafzai, the mission of her life remains ensuring every girl has the right to go to school, a goal that has driven her since she was a child growing up in Pakistan's Swat Valley. Critical of the ruling Taliban, she survived an assassination attempt at their hands before fleeing to England to continue her education, ultimately at Oxford University. Thank you to Madina Maishanu and Yousef Eldin for their help in making this programme. The Interview brings you conversations with people shaping our world, from all over the world. The best interviews from the BBC. You can listen on the BBC World Service, Mondays and Wednesdays at 0700 GMT. Or you can listen to The Interview as a podcast, out twice a week on BBC Sounds or wherever you get your podcasts.Presenter: Madina Maishanu Producers: Yousef Eldin, Lucy Sheppard and Farhana Haider Editor: Justine LangGet in touch with us on email TheInterview@bbc.co.uk and use the hashtag #TheInterviewBBC on social media(Image: Malala Yousafzai Photo by Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images for IMDb)