Meet The Difference Makers

Meet The Difference Makers

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Meet The Difference Makers episodes

  • 008 Fostering Flourishing Lives in Higher Ed: with Sara and John Barton

    ►► From generic testimonials to compelling narratives that inspire action. Download my FREE Testimonial Capture Checklist and start transforming your university's stories today → enrollfilms.com/checklist

    In this episode of "Meet the Difference Makers," Sara and John Barton shares her unique insights on holistic education and its importance in fostering both personal and community growth. A key takeaway is her emphasis on the transformative power of education that goes beyond academics, nurturing well-rounded individuals.

    Takeaways:

    • The importance of holistic education in shaping well-rounded individuals.
    • The role of educators in fostering a sense of community and belonging.
    • The transformative impact of education on personal and professional growth.
    • Links mentioned in the show:

      • Pepperdine University Hub for Spiritual Life
      • Listen to Sara's podcast, Emerge: Questions that Matter for Young Adults
      • Listen to the NetVUE podcast, Callings: Conversations on College, Career, and a Life Well Lived
      • John D. Barton, Professor of Teaching of Religion, Pepperdine University
      • Email Ryan Koral: [email protected]
      • Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram
      • Connect with Ryan Koral on LinkedIn
      • 🎥 Watch the full interview here

        #HolisticEducation #CommunityInHigherEd #EducationalLeadership

        48 min
      • 007 Marketing with Heart: Tia Gerdsen's Journey in Higher Education

        ►► From generic testimonials to compelling narratives that inspire action. Download my FREE Testimonial Capture Checklist and start transforming your university's stories today → enrollfilms.com/checklist

        In this episode of "Meet the Difference Makers," Ryan Koral interviews Tia Gerdsen, Assistant Vice President of Strategic Marketing for the College of Adult and Graduate Studies at Colorado Christian University. Tia shares her journey in marketing across various industries before moving into higher education, where she finds fulfillment in helping adults realize their potential and pursue education. 

        She discusses the power of storytelling in marketing, her personal inspirations, and the evolving challenges in higher education. A key takeaway is Tia's emphasis on the importance of empathy and personal connections in her role, highlighting how individual stories of student success fuel her passion and commitment to her work.

        Takeaways:

        • The transition from diverse industries to higher education marketing
        • The importance of storytelling in higher education
        • Personal stories of student success and inspiration
        • Links mentioned in the show:

          • College of Adult and Graduate Studies at Colorado Christian University
          • Connect with Tia Gerdsen on LinkedIn
          • Mom Nom Podcast
          • Email Ryan Koral: [email protected]
          • Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram
          • Connect with Ryan Koral on LinkedIn
          • 🎥 Watch the full interview here

            #HigherEdMarketing #StorytellingInEducation #InspiringLeaders

            25 min
          • 006 The Art of Leadership in Academia: Insights from Dr. Brian Stogner

            ►► From generic testimonials to compelling narratives that inspire action. Download my FREE Testimonial Capture Checklist and start transforming your university's stories today → enrollfilms.com/checklist

            In this inspiring episode, Ryan talks with Dr. Brian Stogner, the President of Rochester University. Dr. Stogner shares his unique journey from a first-generation college student to leading a university, and his philosophy on education and personal growth.

            Key Points Discussed:

            • Dr. Stogner's background and his unexpected path to becoming a university president.
            • The role of higher education in shaping a meaningful life, beyond just career success.
            • The importance of creating a culture of belonging and inclusivity on campus.
            • Dr. Stogner's approach to education that values personal interaction and mentorship.
            • Takeaways:

              • The transformative power of higher education in both personal and professional life.
              • Insights into leading an educational institution with a focus on community, inclusivity, and mentorship.
              • Inspiration from Dr. Stogner’s commitment to making a difference in students' lives.
              • Links mentioned in the show:

                • Dr. Brian Stogner, President, Rochester University
                • Email Dr. Brian Stogner: [email protected]
                • Email Ryan Koral: [email protected]
                • Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram
                • Connect with Ryan Koral on LinkedIn
                • 🎥 Watch the full interview here

                  #HigherEdLeadership #EmpathyInEducation #StudentServices #MentorshipMatters

                  45 min
                • 005 Cultivating Tomorrow's Leaders in Higher Education with Jim Wojcik

                  ►► From generic testimonials to compelling narratives that inspire action. Download my FREE Testimonial Capture Checklist and start transforming your university's stories today → enrollfilms.com/checklist

                  In this episode of "Meet the Difference Makers," host Ryan interviews Jim Wojcik, a seasoned faculty member with over 20 years of experience at Central Michigan University. Jim shares his insights on education, the importance of internships, and nurturing student growth.

                  Takeaways:

                  • Jim Wojcik’s journey from aspiring math teacher to influential educator in higher education.
                  • The importance of internships and practical experiences in student development.
                  • Jim’s perspective on learning from failures and the importance of making mistakes in a safe environment.
                  • The evolving role of faculty in higher education and the challenges they face.
                  • Jim’s philosophy on student engagement and the importance of real-world learning. 
                  • Links mentioned in the show:

                    • James Wojcik, Central Michigan University
                    • Email Jim Wojcik: [email protected]
                    • Email Ryan Koral: [email protected]
                    • Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram
                    • Connect with Ryan Koral on LinkedIn
                    • 🎥 Watch the full interview here

                      #HigherEdLeadership #EmpathyInEducation #StudentServices #MentorshipMatters

                      37 min
                    • 004 Empathy in Action: Revolutionizing Student Services and Mentorship with Candace Cain

                      ►► From generic testimonials to compelling narratives that inspire action. Download my FREE Testimonial Capture Checklist and start transforming your university's stories today → enrollfilms.com/checklist

                      This episode of "Meet the Difference Makers" features a heartwarming conversation with Candace Cain, currently serving as Vice President for Student Services at Faulkner University. Host Ryan Koral and Candace discuss the transformative power of empathy in higher education, the importance of mentorship, and the journey of personal and professional growth.

                      Takeaways:

                      • The evolution of student services and the role of empathy
                      • The impact of mentorship on student development
                      • Candace's personal journey in higher education
                      • Links Mentioned in the Show:

                        • Candace Cain, Faulkner University
                        • Faulkner University Student Services
                        • Candace Cain, LinkedIn
                        • Hope House Montgomery (nonprofit)
                        • Email Ryan Koral: [email protected]
                        • Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram
                        • Connect with Ryan Koral on LinkedIn
                        • 🎥 Watch the full interview here

                          #HigherEdLeadership #EmpathyInEducation #StudentServices #MentorshipMatters

                          42 min
                        • 003 Shaping Futures: A Journey Through Higher Education with Dr. Jefferson Campbell

                          ►► From generic testimonials to compelling narratives that inspire action. Download my FREE Testimonial Capture Checklist and start transforming your university's stories today → enrollfilms.com/checklist

                          In this episode of "Meet the Difference Makers," host Ryan Koral engages in a deep conversation with Dr. Jefferson Campbell, Dean of the College of Arts and Media at Central Michigan University. They discuss the evolving value of higher education, the vital role of teachers, and the importance of community in shaping student experiences.

                          Takeaways:
                          1. The Evolving Role of Higher Education: Understand how the perception of higher education's value has shifted over time, emphasizing not just academic learning but also personal development and community engagement.
                          2. Significance of Mentorship: Recognize the profound impact teachers and mentors can have on shaping students' career paths and personal growth.
                          3. Importance of Community: Appreciate the role of shared experiences and community involvement in enhancing the educational journey.

                          Links Mentioned in the Show:

                          • Jefferson Campbell, Central Michigan University
                          • Email Ryan Koral: [email protected]
                          • Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram
                          • Connect with Ryan Koral on LinkedIn
                          • #HigherEdLeadership #EmpathyInEducation #StudentServices #MentorshipMatters

                            🎥 Watch the full interview here.

                            45 min
                          • 002 Defying Doubts: Dr. Thompson's Journey to Empowering Higher Ed

                            Join us in this inspiring episode of "Meet the Difference Makers" where we sit down with Dr. Thompson, a beacon of hope and transformation in the realm of higher education. Discover how he overcame personal challenges, defied expectations, and now plays a pivotal role in shaping lives at his institution.

                            ►► From generic testimonials to compelling narratives that inspire action. Download my FREE Testimonial Capture Checklist and start transforming your university's stories today → enrollfilms.com/checklist

                            🎥 Watch the full interview here interview 

                            Dr. Jean-Noel Thompson is Executive Vice President at Harding University in Searcy, AR. Prior to his role at Harding, he held positions as vice president for student services and assistant professor of Education at Faulkner University, Abilene Christian University, Grove City College, and Grand Canyon University. Thompson earned a bachelor’s degree in organizational communication from Arizona State University, a master’s degree in student affairs in higher education from Colorado State University, and a doctorate in higher education and student affairs from Indiana University. Thompson has been published in a variety of education journals and has presented at a number of national conferences. Prior to being adopted at the age of 12, Thompson and his twin brother experienced multiple foster home placements and helped welcome many foster children into their permanent home, post-adoption. These experiences have profoundly impacted his life, and he enjoys encouraging others through his story. He and his wife Tonya of 32 years have eight children, ranging in age from 9 to 28.

                            Links Mentioned in the Show:

                            • Email Dr. Jean-Noel Thompson: [email protected]
                            • Email Ryan Koral: [email protected]
                            • Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram
                            • Connect with Ryan Koral on LinkedIn
                            • #HigherEdLeadership #EmpathyInEducation #StudentServices #MentorshipMatters

                               

                              37 min
                            • 001 Beyond the Game: Coach Garth Pleasant's Legacy in Higher Ed

                              In this episode, we explore the inspiring career of Coach Garth Pleasant, a man whose dedication to higher education and his students goes unmatched.

                              From his emotional recount of his 500th win to his insights on the importance of personal integrity, Coach Pleasant's story is a powerful reminder of the impact educators have.

                              Links mentioned on the show:

                              • Coach Garth Pleasant's Documentary: enrollfilms.com/coach
                              • Download our Testimonial Capture Checklist: enrollfilms.com/checklist
                              • Garth Pleasant, Rochester University
                              • Email Ryan Koral: [email protected]
                              • Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram
                              • Connect with Ryan Koral on LinkedIn
                              •  🎥 Watch the full interview here!

                                #MeetTheDifferenceMakers #EnrollFilms #HigherEdHeroes #EducationImpact #Leadership

                                38 min
                              • The Trailer: Why The Difference Makers

                                Dive deep into the transformative power of higher education with Ryan Koral, a documentary filmmaker and founder of Enroll Films. In this series, Ryan shares his personal journey, from a lost student to a passionate storyteller, highlighting the pivotal role that higher education institutions play in shaping lives.

                                In this teaser episode, Ryan recounts his transformative experience at Rochester University, where he met influential figures like Garth Pleasant, a legendary basketball coach who shaped the sports realm and impacted countless young lives. Through serendipitous events, Ryan's path crossed with Garth, leading him to discover his true calling in video storytelling.

                                Throughout the show, listeners will be introduced to difference makers in the higher education space – from university presidents to campus influencers. Ryan delves into their motivations, the stories they carry, and the profound impact they have on students and communities.

                                If you're passionate about higher education, inspired by life-changing stories, or simply curious about the people behind the scenes making a difference, this podcast is for you. Join Ryan as he uncovers the stories of those shaping the future of education and making a lasting impact on the world.

                                References Link:
                                Tell Studios

                                10 min

                              About Meet The Difference Makers

                              From the publisher's feed

                              Hear the stories behind our higher ed leaders and their enduring impact.