In this episode of Roompact's RA*Chat, we sit down with Jose Rivera to break down how to distinguish typical roommate conflict from situations that require higher-level intervention. The conversation covers documentation best practices, referrals, collaboration with professional staff, and how to balance empathy with policy enforcement. Especially in complex, real-world situations, RAs like you face on the job.

In this episode of ResEdChat, join our host Noah Montague and guest Keresa Murray, Resident Director at Ohio University as they talk about navigating conflict in the Residence Halls. Far too often, students and people at large avoid conflict whether it be out of fear, polarization, or even safety. That said, conflict and navigating disagreement are a crucial part of life and thus a crucial part of the residential experience that is important for us to talk about and reflect on as residence life professionals. In this episode, Keresa and Noah explore the talk about conflict management, share impactful stories, and provide practical advice to Residence Life Staff.

In this episode of Roompact's ResEdChat, Jas chats with Sydney Rigdon, Assistant Director of Housing & Residence Life at Transylvania University. They explore why regional and state involvement matters, how professionals can find their way into their networks, and ways this engagement supports both individual growth and the broader field of student affairs. Let's discuss!

In this episode of Roompact's ResEdChat, Crystal is joined by Jennifer Pridemore, Financial Advisor at Northwestern Mutual, for a practical and compassionate conversation about financial wellness for live-in housing professionals. Together, they explore how living on campus shapes financial habits, the importance of planning early, and ways to build healthy, realistic money practices. This episode encourages listeners to approach financial goals with flexibility and confidence.

In this episode of Roompact's RA*Chat, we we are joined by Marcus Zacarias (UC Berkeley) to solve the puzzle of low attendance and low energy. The secret? It doesn’t require a massive budget or hours of planning. We dive deep into the art of micro-programming and intentional conversations. Discover how RAs and student staff members can maintain community momentum even during the busiest times of the year by focusing on low-effort, high-reward interactions that meet residents exactly where they are.

On this episode of ResEdChat, join our host Noah Montague and guest Ben Williams as they talk about the needs of residential LGBTQIA+ students and the role of Residence Life Staff in supporting this population. While no student population is a monolith, especially when we are talking about marginalized students; LGBTQIA+ students have unique situations, supports, and joys that are crucial to consider and unpack, especially for live in staff. Join Ben and Noah as they explore these, share stories of their own experiences, and provide practical advice to Residence Life Staff.

In this episode of Roompact's ResEdChat, Graduate Residence Hall Coordinator Mckenzie Howard at Eastern Kentucky University will share what's proven to be best practices to provide ongoing care, taking the time to debrief, and creating a culture that prioritizes well-being after critical incidents for student staff. Howard developed a "Comprehensive Care Plan" that she and other co-workers have used throughout the academic year to maintain the standard of care that has been set for her department. Let's discuss!

In this episode of Roompact’s ResEdChat, Crystal is joined by her mentee, Leya Deickman, Associate Director of Residence Life at William & Mary, for an honest conversation about mentorship in housing and residence life. Together, they reflect on timing, expectations, boundaries, and accountability, encouraging listeners to think about how mentorship might support their own growth and leadership.

In this episode of Roompact's RA*Chat, it's a post-break reset for RAs focused on rebuilding momentum, re-establishing expectations, and reconnecting with residents after winter break, with Assistant Director Chasten Conway. This episode covers strategies for addressing burnout, re-engaging residents, and setting a strong tone for the semester ahead.

In this first episode of the year, guest host Dustin Ramsdell speaks with Katie Munshaw to wrap up our episodes featuring the 2025 blogging team. They discuss how to lead with vulnerability and what makes it especially important when working in the residence halls. Katie shares reflections from her own life that have reinforced these lessons as well as encouragement for how others can find the right balance of how to do the same.

Guest: Katie Munshaw (she/her) - Residence Director at Roosevelt University

Host: Dustin Ramsdell, Independent Higher EdTech Content Creator