The Higher Ed Geek Podcast

Hosted by Dustin Ramsdell

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426

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Jun 2026

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About the show

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.

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June 10, 202625 min

Episode #333: How AI Is Reshaping Course Design and Assessment

This week we speak with Auryan Ratliff of Arizona State University about how AI—especially agentic AI—is transforming course design, assessment, and the broader student experience. They explore how moving beyond simple question-and-answer tools to more autonomous, action-oriented systems enables institutions to build more dynamic, personalized, and scalable learning environments. The conversation also tackles the challenges AI introduces—particularly around academic integrity—and how institutions can respond by rethinking assessment itself. Through examples like AI-powered conversational language practice, they highlight a shift toward more authentic, interactive, and human-centered learning experiences. Ultimately, it’s a call for institutions to embrace experimentation, invest in culture and collaboration, and actively engage with AI rather than waiting for the “right” moment. Guest Name: Auryan Ratliff - Director of Technology Innovation and R&D at EdPlus at Arizona State University Guest Social: LinkedIn Guest Bio: Auryan Ratliff is the Director of Technology Innovation and R&D at EdPlus at Arizona State University, where he has worked for over a decade across AI, XR and digital learning. He manages a portfolio of emerging technology projects aimed at supporting the student experience. He founded EdPlus’ AI product team and led the development of DegreeMe, an AI-powered tool that helps prospective students find the right degree through a personalized quiz. He is also the founder of SPLIT Studio, the student-powered lab focused on creating immersive experiences for ASU Online. SPLIT has also produced work for Dreamscape Learn and ASU partners, including the Hall of Teachers exhibit at the Bishop Museum, created in partnership with the Polynesian Voyaging Society. - - - -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.

June 3, 202621 min

Episode #332: Preparing Healthcare Students for an AI-Driven Workforce

We’re pleased this week to chat with Michael Betz of Covista about tackling the growing healthcare workforce shortage through scalable education and AI-driven innovation. They explore how Covista is leveraging its network of institutions—and a new partnership with Google Cloud—to build an AI-powered classroom that enables more personalized, adaptive learning experiences at scale. The conversation also highlights the importance of preparing students with practical AI skills through targeted credentials, ensuring graduates can not only use these tools responsibly but lead innovation in their fields. Ultimately, it’s a call for institutions to move beyond experimentation—focusing on intentional, student-centered implementation that combines technology, iteration, and strong change management to drive real impact. Guest Name: Michael Betz - Chief Growth & Innovation Officer and President, Walden University Guest Social: LinkedIn Guest Bio: Michael Betz serves as Chief Growth & Innovation Officer of Covista and President of Walden University. In this expanded role, Betz unites marketing, digital innovation and growth strategy across Covista and its portfolio of institutions—driving greater integration, smarter investment and a more seamless approach to how Covista attracts and engages students. As President of Walden University, Betz leads an institution serving over 50,000 online learners through doctoral, master's, bachelor's and certificate programs that help students advance their education and address critical workforce shortages. In his enterprise role as Chief Growth & Innovation Officer, he oversees marketing and digital strategy across all five institutions—harnessing artificial intelligence and emerging technology to sharpen Covista's competitive position and accelerate growth. Betz empowers his teams to strengthen the student experience while expanding Covista's leadership in nursing, medicine and behavioral health education. Through strategic partnerships, advanced technology and integrated marketing, he helps Covista address urgent healthcare workforce needs—from rural healthcare shortages to the growing demand for mental health professionals. - - - -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.

May 27, 202628 min

Episode #331: Can Liberal Arts Lead in the Age of AI?

In this week’s episode, we speak with Dr. Rachel Bowser of Agnes Scott College about redefining AI fluency as a core component of a liberal arts education. Rather than focusing on technical skills alone, they explore how teaching students to critically evaluate AI—understanding its biases, limitations, and role in learning—can strengthen their ability to think, question, and make meaning. The conversation also highlights how embedding AI literacy alongside experiential learning—like global travel and workplace immersion—creates more equitable, high-impact opportunities for students. Ultimately, it’s a call for institutions to shift from gatekeeping knowledge to expanding access, ensuring all students are equipped to navigate an AI-driven world with confidence and curiosity. Guest Name: Dr. Rachel Bowser - Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of the College, Agnes Scott College Guest Social: LinkedIn Guest Bio: Dr. Rachel Bowser brings extensive academic leadership experience and scholarly expertise to her role as vice president for academic affairs and dean of the college at Agnes Scott College. Dr. Bowser provides strategic vision for the institution’s academic program, faculty development, and academic support services, with leadership that encompasses curriculum innovation, faculty recruitment and retention, and the cultivation of an inclusive learning environment. Dr. Bowser’s academic journey reflects a deep commitment to the liberal arts. She earned her BA in English from Grove City College, her MA in English from West Virginia University, and her PhD in English from Emory University, where rigorous training in literary scholarship prepared her for a distinguished career in both teaching and academic leadership. - - - -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.

May 20, 202635 min

Episode #330: Closing the Life Skills Gap in Higher Education

We 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.

May 14, 202621 min

Live from ASU+GSV with Raghu Krishnaiah

In 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.

May 13, 202628 min

Episode #329: How University of the People Stays Workforce Aligned

We’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.

May 12, 202621 min

Live from ASU+GSV with Kate Valenti

In 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.

May 11, 202620 min

Live from ASU+GSV with Kaitlin Dumont and Peter Stokes

In 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.

May 8, 202616 min

Live from ASU+GSV with Melissa Morgan

In 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.

May 7, 202617 min

Live from ASU+GSV with David Harris

In 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.