We’re sharing an extra dose of podcasting goodness with this recently released episode of the Next Practices podcast from Civitas Learning. Dustin was interviewed by Katy about what he’s learned from years of podcasting and thoughts on trends in developing meaningful digital experiences for students.

Guest Name: Katy Oliveira, Head of Content Marketing at Civitas Learning

Guest Social: LinkedIn

Guest Bio: Katy Oliveira is a creative and strategic senior content marketer with experience producing resonant content experiences in multiple media formats. She is skilled in developing and executing comprehensive content strategies that drive brand awareness, engagement, and conversion across owned and paid channels. Katy is an experienced manager passionate about helping others hone their unique superpowers to reach their goals and contribute to a successful team.

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Connect With Our Host:
Dustin Ramsdell
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

Dustin is pleased to sit down with Dr. Bridget Burns, CEO of the University Innovation Alliance (UIA). Bridget shares her journey of leading the UIA, focusing on scaling innovative ideas to improve student outcomes across universities. They discuss the challenges and triumphs of fostering innovation in higher education, the impact of institutional closures, and the importance of empathy and user-centered design in creating effective educational experiences.

Guest Name: Dr. Bridget Burns, CEO at the University Innovation Alliance

Guest Social: LinkedIn

Guest Bio: As a trusted advisor to university presidents and policymakers, Dr. Bridget Burns is on a mission to transform the way institutions think about and take action on behalf of low-income, first generation, and students of color. She is the founding CEO of the University Innovation Alliance, a multi-campus laboratory for student success innovation that helps university leaders dramatically accelerate the implementation of scalable solutions to increase the number and diversity of college graduates.

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Connect With Our Host:
Dustin Ramsdell
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

Dustin is pleased to sit down with Mike Marriner, Co-Founder and President of Roadtrip Nation, for this week’s episode. Mike shares the incredible journey of Roadtrip Nation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping students explore career options through real stories and experiences. Mike shares how Roadtrip Nation's unique approach to career exploration is transforming lives and empowering the next generation to find their paths in the evolving future of work.

Guest Name: Mike Marriner, Co-Founder and President at Roadtrip Nation

Guest Social: LinkedIn

Guest Bio: As co-founder and President of Roadtrip Nation, Mike Marriner leads the organization's media and education efforts that empower people from all backgrounds to define their own roads in life. For over 15 years, Mike has developed a range of media and education partnerships that distribute Roadtrip Nation content to over 60 million households, 14 million students, and over 12,000 schools each year. Roadtrip Nation has been awarded the Excellence in Programming award by American Public Television, two Telly awards, and won the 2019 Lone Star Regional Emmy Award for the film, Room to Grow. Mike has co-authored all 4 Roadtrip Nation books including Roadmap (Chronicle Books), which hit the NY Times best-seller list in 2018. Mike is also an Ashoka Fellow, a network of leading social entrepreneurs, and has been featured in prominent news outlets including the NBC Today Show, CBS Early Show, BBC News, Outside, Fast Company, Forbes, Esquire, USA Today and many others. He graduated from Pepperdine University with a double major in Biology / Sports Medicine, and attended The Harvard Business School Social Enterprise Program in 2012.

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Connect With Our Host:
Dustin Ramsdell
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

This week, Dustin chats with Sophie Smith, CEO and Founder of College Contact. Sophie shares her inspiring journey from founding the company in her dorm room to leading a successful platform that bridges the gap between high school and college experiences. She also details how College Contact leverages near-peer mentorship and advanced digital tools to revolutionize college admissions and student success.

Guest Name: Sophie Smith, Founder & CEO at College Contact

Guest Social: LinkedIn

Guest Bio: Sophie Smith is the founder and CEO of College Contact which serves the 75% of college applicants who apply alone every year. Since its inception, College Contact has served over 2,500 students, reached 16M people on social media, and grown their counselor network to 100+ college counselors nationwide. Sophie's accolades include being named Student Entrepreneur of the Year by the Charlottesville Business Innovation Council and winning the Global EdTech Company of the Year award from InvestHer. She graduated from the University of Virginia with a B.S. in Commerce at the McIntire School of Commerce with concentrations in Marketing and Information Technology, an Innovation Entrepreneurship minor and a track in Business Analytics.

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Connect With Our Host:
Dustin Ramsdell
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

This week, Dustin talks with Dr. Joseph Orgel from Illinois Institute of Technology about the innovative Empowerment Leadership and Mentorship (ELM) program he developed. Dr. Orgel shares his journey in academia, emphasizing the importance of mentorship and the development of durable skills for student success. They also discuss the program's impact on academic performance, graduation rates, and the overall student experience. Lastly, Dr. Orgel highlights the critical role of peer mentorship and the positive effects of creating a supportive and empowering academic culture.

Guest Name: Dr. Joseph Orgel, Vice Provost for Academic Affairs at Illinois Institute of Technology

Guest Social Handles: LinkedIn

Guest Bio: Dr. Joseph Orgel is a visionary with a passion for innovation and collaboration. He is a relentless research leader in multi- and cross-disciplinary R&D, delving into areas such as the molecular organization of tissues, X-Ray diffraction, neurology, social influence, generative AI and applied learning. His diverse background spans academia, research, and business, giving him a unique perspective on leadership and problem-solving. Joseph's expertise in industrial R&D, business administration, and strategic planning is complemented by his commitment to fostering strong relationships and championing personal development. As a skilled communicator and dedicated mentor, Joseph inspires those around him to reach their full potential.

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Connect With Our Host:
Dustin Ramsdell
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

Joining the show this week is Aneesh Sohoni, CEO of One Million Degrees, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting community college students. Aneesh shares his personal and professional journey that led him to this impactful work, discusses the comprehensive support model of One Million Degrees, and emphasizes the importance of community colleges in today’s educational landscape. Together, they explore the challenges and opportunities in community college education and the innovative strategies employed to enhance student success.

Guest Name: Aneesh Sohoni, CEO at One Million Degrees

Guest Social Handles: LinkedIn

Guest Bio: Aneesh is Chief Executive Officer at One Million Degrees (OMD), an organization that focuses on supporting community college students with life, school, and career. Aneesh is the child of immigrants and works in education because of the meaningful role access to educational opportunity played in his family’s life. He started as a high school English teacher. It was his experience working with his students that brought to life for Aneesh the limitless potential of students and the need to ensure all students had access to opportunities to meet their potential. Since leaving the classroom, Aneesh has worked in the public and non-profit sector supporting education reform efforts in Tennessee, Camden, Boston, and Chicago. Most recently, Aneesh served as the Executive Director for Teach For America in Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana for nearly six years. Aneesh was previously named to Forbes 30 under 30 for education, is a Pahara Fellow, 2019 Leadership Greater Chicago Fellow, a member of The Economic Club of Chicago, and serves on the board of Teach For India – U.S. Aneesh has shared his expertise at numerous conferences, including at SXSW EDU and ASU-GSV Summit.

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Connect With Our Host:
Dustin Ramsdell
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

This week, we’re pleased to welcome back Robert Li, Owner of University FM. They delve into the mission and vision behind Professors FM, a network dedicated to helping scholars communicate their research to the general public through podcasts. Robert shares his journey from college radio to creating a platform that empowers faculty members to engage with broader audiences. They discuss the benefits of podcasting for academics, the importance of accessible research communication, and how Professors FM supports scholars in becoming better communicators.

Guest Name: Robert Li, Co-Founder & Owner of University FM

Guest Social Handles: LinkedIn

Guest Bio: Robert Li is the co-founder and owner of University FM, the higher ed podcast production company. His journey in audio storytelling began as a DJ at University of Michigan’s radio station. He now partners with educational institutions to create podcast shows that serve their strategic goals and resonate with target listeners. These institutions include UC Berkeley, Howard University, and Middlebury College. The through line is his dedication to elevating the voices within institutions.

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Connect With Our Host:
Dustin Ramsdell
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

In this special live episode recorded at the 2024 Engage Summit in Raleigh, NC, Dustin chats with Jenny who shares her journey in social media management, her approach to embracing digital transformation, and the importance of authenticity in building online communities. They discuss the evolving landscape of social media, the integration of new platforms like BeReal, and the strategic decisions behind managing social media at a prestigious institution like MIT.

Guest Name: Jenny Li Fowler, Director of Social Media Strategy at Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Guest Social: LinkedIn

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Connect With Our Host:
Dustin Ramsdell
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

In this special live episode recorded at the 2024 Engage Summit in Raleigh, NC, Dustin chats with Allison, host of The Application podcast, who shares her insights on enrollment marketing, the importance of digital transformation, and how AI can enhance human connection in higher education. They discuss practical strategies for recruiting prospective students and the critical role of personalization in marketing efforts.

Guest Name: Allison Turcio, Assistant Vice President for Enrollment and Marketing at Siena College 

Guest Social: LinkedIn

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Connect With Our Host:
Dustin Ramsdell
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

This week, we’re featuring Dr. Sara Haviland, Senior Measurement Scientist at ETS, to discuss the evolving landscape of college admissions. She delves into the complexities of standardized testing, holistic admissions, and the impact of recent societal changes on these processes. Sara provides insights from her research and experience, highlighting the importance of a balanced approach that considers both qualitative and quantitative measures. She explores the implications of test-optional policies, the need for transparent and equitable admissions systems, and the potential role of AI in shaping the future of higher education.

Guest Name: Dr. Sara Haviland, Senior Measurement Specialist at ETS

Guest Social: LinkedIn

Guest Bio: Sara Haviland is a Senior Measurement Scientist at the ETS Research Institute, where she leads research on higher education admissions policy. She has over two decades of experience studying the social, policy, organizational, and individual factors that affect education, training, and careers; she is particularly interested in how education pathways can improve individuals’ life and career trajectories. Her current research focuses on post-secondary admissions, testing policies, and durable skill development and documentation. She produces both academic and translational pieces to support evidence-based practice in these spaces. Sara holds a Ph.D. in sociology from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. 

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Connect With Our Host:
Dustin Ramsdell
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register