Podcast
The Higher Ed Geek Podcast
Hosted by Dustin Ramsdell · EN
The Higher Ed Geek Podcast explores the impact of edtech on the student experience by speaking with diverse leaders from institutions, companies, and nonprofit organizations. Each week we aim to provide an engaging, fun, and relevant dose of professional development that honors the wide range of work happening all across the higher ed ecosystem. Come geek out with us! The Higher Ed Geek Podcast is hosted by Dustin Ramsdell and is a proud member of the Enrollify Podcast Network.
32episodes
Episodes
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Episode #330: Closing the Life Skills Gap in Higher Education
May 2000:35:07Tap to summarizeWe welcome Montana Houston, founder of rYOUminate, to the show this week to chat about addressing the “hidden curriculum” of higher education—life skills like financial literacy, career readiness, and self-advocacy that many students are expected to know but are rarely taught. They explore how gaps in infrastructure and capacity have left institutions struggling to deliver this support at scale, and how personalized, tech-enabled solutions can help bridge the divide. Guest Name: Montana Houston - CEO & Founder @ rYOUminate Guest Social: LinkedIn Guest Bio: Montana Houston is the founder of rYOUminate, a life skills edtech company personalizing adulthood for 18 to 30-year-olds and the higher education institutions that support them. As a first-generation college student at the University of Southern California, she experienced firsthand how much of adulthood is shaped by unspoken expectations. She founded rYOUminate to make those expectations visible, navigable, and less isolating. Today, rYOUminate delivers research-backed programming, reflection-driven tools, and thoughtful resources that help young adults build confidence in life’s biggest transitions. Through work with customers such as the University of Washington and YMCA of King County, the company has driven a 2.5x increase in confidence and a 5x increase in knowledge among participants. Montana brings experience across law, financial literacy, and inclusion-focused leadership, and her work has been recognized by SXSW EDU, Venture Black, Urban Impact, and Business Impact Northwest. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Transcribe →Live from ASU+GSV with Raghu Krishnaiah
May 1400:21:13Tap to summarizeIn this bonus episode recorded live at the ASU+GSV summit in San Diego, we chatted with Raghu Krishnaiah from the University of Phoenix about how AI is being used to identify and close skills gaps between education and the workforce. They explore how embedding skills-based learning, aligning employer needs with curriculum, and leveraging data-driven insights can better prepare students—especially working adults—for evolving career demands. The conversation also highlights broader implications for employers and institutions, emphasizing the need for continuous learning, faster adaptation, and greater collaboration across the ecosystem to ensure individuals aren’t left behind in an AI-driven economy. Check out University of Phoenix’s recent Career Optimism Index to learn more about the research that was referenced throughout this conversation. Guest Name: Raghu Krishnaiah, COO, University of Phoenix Guest Social: LinkedIn Guest Bio: Raghu Krishnaiah serves as the chief operating officer at University of Phoenix, where he is instrumental in the transformation of the University and responsible for all operating strategy and results. As part of his responsibilities, Krishnaiah oversees all student academic, financial aid, enrollment, technology and career advising; corporate, tribal and community college relationships; product development; operational analytics; regional campuses; and business innovation. Krishnaiah is an innovative leader experienced in turning transformative products and business concepts into successful global companies by bridging the gap between strategy and execution. He holds strong expertise in data monetization and analytics that drives faster, more accurate decision-making in start-ups, turnarounds and Fortune 500 companies. His career as a seasoned change agent and strategist spans more than 20 years of progressive P&L management, strategy, sales and marketing, product development, operations, technology and Board responsibilities. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Transcribe →Episode #329: How University of the People Stays Workforce Aligned
May 1300:28:02Tap to summarizeWe’re pleased to welcome back Shai Reshef, founder of University of the People, to the show to talk more about his institution’s unique tuition-free, globally accessible model. We explore how aligning academic programs with workforce demand, while maintaining a strong foundation in critical thinking and general education, can create more equitable and sustainable pathways for students worldwide. The conversation also highlights the rise of stackable certificates, the importance of affordability and relevance, and why institutions must rethink traditional structures to better serve today’s learners and remain viable in a rapidly changing landscape. Guest Name: Shai Reshef - President and Founder of University of the People Guest Social: LinkedIn Guest Bio: An educational entrepreneur, Shai Reshef has over 25 years of experience in the international education market. Currently he is the President and Founder of University of the People. Previously, Shai served as Chairman of the Kidum Group, a for-profit educational services company. He also chaired KIT eLearning, the online learning partner of the University of Liverpool and the first online university outside of the United States. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Transcribe →Live from ASU+GSV with Kate Valenti
May 1200:21:38Tap to summarizeIn this bonus episode recorded live at the ASU+GSV summit in San Diego, we sat down with Kate Valenti, CEO of Unicon, about how higher education institutions must evolve their digital infrastructure to meet changing learner expectations. They explore the growing importance of interoperability, skills data, and learner-centered design—especially as institutions work to connect education more seamlessly with workforce outcomes. The conversation also examines how AI is shaping both opportunity and noise in the market, emphasizing the need for a pragmatic, value-driven approach that balances emerging technology with human expertise, judgment, and long-term strategy. Guest Name: Kate Valenti, CEO, Unicon Guest Social: LinkedIn Guest Bio: Kate Valenti leads Unicon’s senior executive team and all aspects of corporate operations. Kate is responsible for the profitable execution of the firm’s business strategy, balancing outstanding service to clients, significant impact to learners, and enjoyable work experiences for their employees. Throughout her 20+ year career at Unicon, Kate has previously held key leadership roles including Chief Operating Officer and Senior Director of Integrations and Analytics. Previously, Kate worked at Cap Gemini Ernst & Young as a management consultant with a focus on enterprise application integration. Kate is passionate about the impact that well-designed and well-integrated technology can have on the learning experience. During her career in education, Kate has designed and developed integration strategies, programs, and technical services teams, and has delivered dozens of integrated solutions to the market. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Transcribe →Live from ASU+GSV with Kaitlin Dumont and Peter Stokes
May 1100:20:22Tap to summarizeIn this bonus episode recorded live at the ASU+GSV summit in San Diego, we sat down with Kaitlin and Peter from Huron about their recent Rise 40 report, which highlights emerging edtech companies reshaping the student lifecycle—from recruitment and retention to career readiness. The report aims to help institutions cut through the noise of AI-driven solutions and make more informed, strategic decisions about digital transformation. The conversation also explores broader trends in the edtech landscape, emphasizing the need for experimentation, clearer proof of impact, and thoughtful adoption of AI as institutions work to improve student outcomes and navigate a rapidly evolving market. Guest Names: Kaitlin Dumont, Higher Education Consulting Director, Huron Consulting Group Peter Stokes, Managing Director, Huron Consulting Group Guest Socials: Kaitlin's LinkedInPeter's LinkedIn - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Transcribe →Live from ASU+GSV with Melissa Morgan
May 800:16:18Tap to summarizeIn this bonus episode recorded live at the ASU+GSV summit in San Diego, we spoke with Melissa Morgan, Co-Founder of Coraltalk, about rethinking student assessment in the age of AI. As written work becomes easier to generate with AI, they explore how spoken assessments—like oral defenses and real-time questioning—can better demonstrate true understanding, critical thinking, and authentic learning. The conversation highlights how this moment is less about replacing traditional methods and more about evolving them—using AI to scale more personalized, human-centered approaches that help educators truly see, hear, and support their students. Melissa Morgan - Co-Founder & CEO at Coraltalk Guest Social: LinkedIn Guest Bio: Melissa Morgan is a serial founder, Toptal designer, and DesignLab/GLEAC mentor specializing in digital products and user experience. With a background in psychology and business, she finds the intersection of great design and lucrative strategy. Melissa has worked with startups to Fortune 500s including UEFA, Harvard, NBC Universal, and Forbes. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Transcribe →Live from ASU+GSV with David Harris
May 7Tap to summarizeIn this bonus episode recorded live at the ASU+GSV summit in San Diego, we sat down with David Harris about new initiatives from the event organizers aimed at helping higher ed leaders navigate rapid change—from AI disruption to financial and student wellbeing challenges. They discuss the launch of a Higher Education Insights Board and new research into Gen Z’s evolving attitudes toward AI, highlighting rising concerns about learning quality and career prospects. The conversation emphasizes the need for collaboration, clear guiding principles, and proactive leadership, positioning this moment not as a crisis but as an opportunity for institutions to rethink their role and shape a more resilient, student-centered future. Guest Name: David Harris - SVP, Higher Education at ASU+GSV Summit Guest Social: LinkedIn - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Transcribe →Live from ASU+GSV with Geordie Hyland
May 5Tap to summarizeIn this bonus episode recorded live at the ASU+GSV summit in San Diego, we spoke with Geordie Hyland from the American College of Education about building a higher ed model centered on affordability, efficiency, and student outcomes. They explore how a fully online, in-house curriculum approach—combined with a focus on employer alignment and continuous improvement—can deliver high-quality education while keeping costs low and minimizing student debt. The conversation highlights the importance of rethinking traditional higher ed structures, emphasizing that institutions must prioritize clear ROI, student value, and sustainable operating models to remain relevant and accessible in today’s evolving landscape. Guest Name: Geordie Hyland - President & Chief Executive Officer at American College of Education Guest Social: LinkedIn Guest Bio: Geordie Hyland is the President and Chief Executive Officer of the American College of Education (ACE) and is passionate about strengthening human capital and communities. Geordie’s education management experience spans Higher Ed, K12, workforce development, allied health, clinical healthcare, continuing medical education and remedial training in online, virtual reality, simulated, hybrid and in-person modalities. Geordie is a former Googler and graduate of Harvard University, where he received a bachelor’s degree in English and American literature as well as a master’s in business administration from Harvard Business School. He also received a master’s degree in industrial relations and personnel management from The London School of Economics and Political Science. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Transcribe →Live from ASU+GSV with Dave McCool
May 4Tap to summarizeIn this bonus episode recorded live at the ASU+GSV summit in San Diego, we sat down with David McCool of Muzzy Lane about how AI is reshaping teaching, learning, and assessment through interactive simulations and role-play experiences. They explore how these tools can move beyond traditional content recall to help students practice real-world skills in more engaging, dynamic ways. The conversation highlights the balance between leveraging AI’s power and maintaining intentional learning design, emphasizing that while AI can enhance personalization and efficiency, strong structure and human guidance remain essential for meaningful skill development. Guest Name: David McCool - President and CEO at Muzzy Lane Guest Social: LinkedIn Guest Bio: Dave McCool is the President & CEO of Muzzy Lane, a provider of a range of simulation solutions for education and training, utilizing a roleplay format enhanced by AI to provide high quality, flexible, and cost-effective learning and assessment simulations. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Transcribe →Live from ASU+GSV with Joe Thibault
May 1Tap to summarizeIn this bonus episode recorded live at the ASU+GSV summit in San Diego, we chatted with Joseph Thibault of Cursive Technology about the evolving challenge of academic integrity in the age of AI. They explore how traditional approaches to assessment are no longer sufficient, and why institutions must shift their focus from detecting plagiarism to verifying authentic authorship and ensuring learning is tied to the individual student. The conversation highlights emerging approaches—like behavioral biometrics and student-centered verification tools—that aim to balance trust, flexibility, and accountability. Ultimately, it’s a call for higher ed leaders to rethink how learning is assessed and validated in a world where AI is reshaping how work gets done. Guest Name: Joseph Thibault - Founder at Cursive Technology, Inc. Guest Social: LinkedIn - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Transcribe →