The Actualized Self

What would happen if you dropped all the roles you've been conditioned to play and simply showed up as your authentic self? In this transformative conversation with Genea Barnes, founder of Be the Wolf, we explore how reconnecting with your true essence can revolutionize not just your business but your entire life. Genea shares the powerful origin story behind her company's name - when wolves were reintroduced to Yellowstone National Park after being eradicated, they restored the entire ecosystem simply by being who they were born to be. This serves as a perfect metaphor for what happens when we shed our false identities and operate from our authentic core. One of the most fascinating revelations is how our need to justify our decisions often signals we're living from identity rather than truth. "Whenever you have to explain why or you feel the need to tell somebody the reason," Genea notes, "that's usually you trying to enroll the person into believing your not-true identity." True authenticity requires no explanation - a simple yes or no suffices. For entrepreneurs and high-performers struggling with burnout, Genea offers a counterintuitive insight: perhaps you don't just need rest, but realignment with what truly energizes you. "The more you are doing the things that you love, the more energy you'll have," she explains, challenging us to evaluate which activities drain us versus which ones leave us feeling renewed. The conversation delves into practical strategies for distinguishing between the frenetic voice of fear and the grounded voice of truth, regulating your nervous system using advanced mental techniques, and creating ripple effects of positive change in your relationships when you start operating from authenticity. Ready to stop explaining and start existing? Listen now for a roadmap to reclaiming your inner wolf and creating a life of greater impact, joy, and fulfillment. Want more insights into the Higher Ed Space? Check-out our Newsletter. Please leave a review on your favorite podcast player!! It helps support the show.

Navigating the complex world of student loans just got a whole lot easier. Chris Abkarians, founder of Juno, shares the fascinating origin story of how a simple Google spreadsheet comparing MBA loan offers transformed into a groundbreaking platform that's revolutionizing student financial aid. The revelation that sparked Juno's creation will shock you: identical borrower profiles can receive interest rates that differ by 3-4% between lenders – a discrepancy that translates to thousands of dollars over the life of a loan. This market inefficiency persists because traditional online searches for "best student loans" are dominated by advertising dollars rather than actual value. As Chris explains, "If you go to Google and try to search for best student loan or cheapest student loan, you are going to get anything but the cheapest student loan." Juno's innovative approach flips the traditional power dynamic. By collecting "demand" from thousands of students with similar needs, they create collective bargaining leverage with lenders to secure better rates than individuals could get on their own. Their transparent business model only generates revenue when members actually secure loans through their negotiated partners, creating perfect alignment between Juno's success and customer savings. The podcast takes a dramatic turn when Chris reveals potentially seismic changes coming to federal student loan programs in 2025. A proposed $50,000 lifetime cap on Parent PLUS loans and the possible elimination of Grad PLUS loans would force many more students into the private loan market. For medical and law students especially, these changes could create serious funding gaps that require innovative new private loan products with features like extended deferment during residency and clerkships. Whether you're a parent planning for your child's education, a graduate student exploring your options, or a higher education professional preparing for industry changes, this episode delivers invaluable insights about navigating student loans in today's market and tomorrow's evolving landscape. Want to learn more? Chris welcomes inquiries at chris@joinjuno.com. Want more insights into the Higher Ed Space? Check-out our Newsletter. Please leave a review on your favorite podcast player!! It helps support the show.

Dave Sherwhood shares his journey from Rhodes Scholar studying chemistry at Oxford to founding BibliU, an educational technology company tackling textbook affordability and streamlining content access for universities. • Started as a B2C business before pivoting to B2B after realizing consumer businesses are incredibly difficult to build successfully • Discovered that long sales cycles in education (averaging 6-12 months) make EdTech a challenging fit for venture capital expectations • Found product-market fit by developing a usage-based pricing model that addressed universities' concerns about paying for unused content • Expanded from the UK to US market, navigating significant differences in university systems, budgets, and technology adoption patterns • Experienced dramatic variations in digital adoption rates between similar institutions, largely influenced by leadership empowerment • Sees AI as transforming content creation economics while recognizing that print still makes up approximately 70% of textbook adoptions • Growing rapidly (60% last year) through both organic expansion and strategic acquisitions Check out BibliU to see how we're helping institutions transition from physical to digital learning materials and creating more affordable, accessible options for students. https://bibliu.com/.  https://www.linkedin.com/in/davejlsherwood/ Want more insights into the Higher Ed Space? Check-out our Newsletter. Please leave a review on your favorite podcast player!! It helps support the show.

The pathway to college completion remains filled with barriers that disproportionately impact first-generation students, adult learners, and historically underserved communities. But what if these obstacles aren't inherent to students themselves, but rather embedded in our educational systems? Meacie Fairfax, Strategy Director at Complete College America, brings both personal experience and professional expertise to this conversation about transforming higher education. Drawing from her own journey as a student who encountered numerous barriers to completion, Fairfax offers a compelling vision for how institutions can redesign themselves around student success. "We have to make sure that our supports, our structures, our pathways match the reality of our students," Fairfax emphasizes, challenging the traditional model that expects students to navigate broken systems. From reconsidering gateway courses to implementing flexible schedules that accommodate working students and caregivers, these structural changes can dramatically improve outcomes. The conversation pulls back the curtain on how effective institutions approach student success. Data transparency emerges as a powerful catalyst—"Institutions that publicly share completion equity gaps shift faster," Fairfax notes. Rather than relying solely on metrics like GPA, leaders should ask deeper questions about where and why students encounter obstacles. This approach shifts the focus from "fixing students" to fixing systems. Complete College America's framework encompasses four pillars—purpose, momentum, support, and structure—providing a comprehensive roadmap for institutional transformation. For leaders looking to begin this journey, Fairfax recommends starting with data analysis and collaborative campus-wide conversations that help everyone see themselves in the work of student success. Ready to reimagine how your institution approaches college completion? Listen now to discover practical strategies that can transform educational pathways and create more equitable outcomes for all students. Want more insights into the Higher Ed Space? Check-out our Newsletter. Please leave a review on your favorite podcast player!! It helps support the show.

What happens when college becomes financially out of reach for an entire generation? Kristin McGuire, Executive Director of Young Invincibles, pulls back the curtain on America's broken higher education system and why it matters to all of us. McGuire shares her personal journey from high school activist to leading the nation's largest youth advocacy organization, revealing how her experiences as a first-generation college student inform her fight for educational equity. With striking clarity, she articulates why the "starving student" stereotype should never be normalized and how the skyrocketing cost of education creates barriers that ripple through young lives: "The cost of growing up is exponentially higher than it was for generations before us." Despite these challenges, McGuire makes a compelling case for why college remains the most powerful vehicle for economic mobility. Through her organization's work advocating for expanded Pell Grants, affordable housing, and student basic needs, she demonstrates how policy changes can create meaningful pathways to opportunity for all young Americans. Perhaps most revealing is McGuire's insight into how higher education institutions often fail to engage with their primary consumers – the students themselves. "You'd be surprised how many conversations I'm in where I say something profound like 'have we talked to the students yet?' And a lot of times, the response is no," she explains, highlighting a fundamental disconnect in how universities operate. Through it all, McGuire maintains what she calls "radical optimism" about the future, drawing inspiration from the resilience and determination of young people. Her perspective reminds us that investing in accessible, affordable education isn't just about individual opportunity – it's about nurturing the leadership potential of an entire generation ready to transform America. Ready to join the movement for educational equity? Follow Young Invincibles on social media or visit younginvincibles.org to learn how you can get involved. Want more insights into the Higher Ed Space? Check-out our Newsletter. Please leave a review on your favorite podcast player!! It helps support the show.

Want more insights into the Higher Ed Space? Check-out our Newsletter. Please leave a review on your favorite podcast player!! It helps support the show.

Higher ed is at a crossroads. Career services teams are no longer gatekeepers of opportunity—they’re becoming curators of the student-employer relationship. But how do institutions actually make that shift? In this episode, I sit down with Christine Y. Cruzvergara, Chief Education Strategy Officer at Handshake, to unpack: 🎯 The biggest mindset shift career services teams must make (or risk falling behind) 📊 How AI & data-driven personalization are transforming student job searches 🔗 Why curated job collections drive 7x more engagement—and how to leverage them ⚖️ The tension between mission-driven work and financial sustainability in career services If you’re a higher ed leader, career services professional, or employer relations expert, this episode is packed with insights on the future of work, education, and workforce development. Want more insights into the Higher Ed Space? Check-out our Newsletter. Please leave a review on your favorite podcast player!! It helps support the show.

What does it take to run a 900-student college in the heart of Silicon Valley—next door to Stanford, no less?  Steven Weiner, President of Menlo College, joins me for a deep dive into leadership, strategy, and what makes Menlo stand out in a crowded higher ed ecosystem. In this episode, we discuss:     Why small colleges have a unique edge in today’s market.     How Menlo leverages its Silicon Valley location for career readiness.     The JCPenney effect in higher ed pricing—and what it means for tuition models.     Operational efficiencies, from outsourcing IT to tackling athletic travel costs. Steven’s insights offer a fresh perspective on differentiation, student success, and navigating higher ed’s evolving challenges.  Whether you’re in higher ed or just curious about running a complex institution, this is one conversation you won’t want to miss. Want more insights into the Higher Ed Space? Check-out our Newsletter. Please leave a review on your favorite podcast player!! It helps support the show.

In this part II conversation with Michael Avaltroni, President of Fairleigh Dickinson University, we dive deep into the challenges and opportunities reshaping higher education.  Michael shares: How FDU is carving out niche strengths in health sciences and healthcare-adjacent fields. Why partnerships with community colleges and healthcare systems are essential to solving enrollment and workforce challenges. His bold vision for campus redesign—turning them into vibrant, lifelong learning hubs. How FDU is tackling the "broken business model" of higher ed by focusing on ROI and student outcomes. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone invested in the future of higher ed and its impact on our communities. Want more insights into the Higher Ed Space? Check-out our Newsletter. Please leave a review on your favorite podcast player!! It helps support the show.

What does it take to lead one of America’s oldest institutions while keeping it future-focused? In this second conversation, Bryon Grigsby, President of Moravian University, shares: How Moravian’s values of equity and access shape everything from tech policies to new program offerings. Why cohort-based learning is the future of higher education. How their UNESCO World Heritage designation opens up new opportunities for students and faculty. His vision for balancing financial sustainability with transformational outcomes. This is a conversation about bold leadership, strategic growth, and making higher ed relevant for the next generation. Want more insights into the Higher Ed Space? Check-out our Newsletter. Please leave a review on your favorite podcast player!! It helps support the show.

Join us for an engaging conversation with Jason Morrison, a veteran educator with more than 20 years of experience in higher education. Jason takes us through his remarkable journey from a classroom instructor to his current role as president of Trinity Valley Community College. With insights drawn from his leadership at Southern Arkansas University Tech, he sheds light on the common challenges faced by these institutions and how they strive to serve students, especially those who are first-generation or economically disadvantaged. Listen in as Jason shares his unique blue-collar, hands-on leadership style, and challenges the traditional pomp of academia with his vision for straightforward, student-centered celebrations. Discover how two-year colleges are navigating the complex landscape of education amid post-COVID-19 changes. From the rising demand for mental health resources to the fierce competition with four-year institutions, Jason discusses how these colleges can tailor educational pathways to suit individual student needs. Highlighting the often-underestimated value of two-year colleges, he emphasizes their role in providing flexible, supportive environments that promote inclusivity. We unravel the hurdles these institutions face in communicating their worth amidst a sea of competing information and marketing from other educational entities, stressing the importance of making education accessible to all students. Dive into the vibrant offerings that make top junior colleges stand out, from celebrated athletics to diverse cultural programs. Learn about Jason's strategic approach to nurturing local talent in geographically challenging areas, focusing on leadership training and internal growth. He shares experiences from his journeys in Arkansas and Texas, revealing the cost-effectiveness of developing existing staff. Concluding the episode, we delve into the importance of earning respect and national recognition for two-year colleges through tangible student success outcomes, community support, and financial backing. Witness how these institutions can transform not only students' futures but also the lives of their families, securing their rightful place in the higher education landscape. Want more insights into the Higher Ed Space? Check-out our Newsletter. Please leave a review on your favorite podcast player!! It helps support the show.

In this episode, I sit down with Emily Smith, Principal and VP of Partner Success at Collegevine, to explore how AI is reshaping higher education. Emily shares: How AI agents are transforming admissions and student success. The concept of “Time to First Value” and why it matters. How AI can empower staff rather than replace them. Whether you're an administrator, faculty member, or just curious about the future of education, this conversation is packed with actionable insights. Want more insights into the Higher Ed Space? Check-out our Newsletter. Please leave a review on your favorite podcast player!! It helps support the show.

How do you lead a system with 7 campuses, serve students in urban and rural areas, and align higher ed with workforce needs—all while ensuring faculty and staff are thriving? In this episode, Brendan Kelly, President of the Arkansas State University System, shares how he’s rethinking leadership in higher ed. We discuss: Why alignment—between industry, state governments, and campuses—is the key to thriving in the 21st century. How ASU’s regional campuses are driving talent pipelines in Arkansas. Why Brendan is calling for a revolution in faculty roles, upskilling, and institutional communication. This conversation is a must-listen for higher ed leaders navigating today’s challenges. Want more insights into the Higher Ed Space? Check-out our Newsletter. Please leave a review on your favorite podcast player!! It helps support the show.

What makes a university truly unique? And how do you scale trust in a crowded higher ed market? In this episode, I sit down with Nuno Fernandes, President of American Public University System (APUS), to uncover the secrets behind their success as the #1 educator of U.S. service members and veterans. We dive into: The power of doubling down on your "core DNA." Why most universities struggle with differentiation—and what they can do to stand out. How APUS is building a personalized, 21st-century education platform for the modern learner. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone in higher ed looking to combine mission with innovation. Want more insights into the Higher Ed Space? Check-out our Newsletter. Please leave a review on your favorite podcast player!! It helps support the show.

In this episode, I sit down with Roger Best, President of the University of Central Missouri, to discuss the balancing act of modern higher ed leadership. From strategic decision-making to fostering innovation, Roger shares how he steers UCM through challenges like declining enrollments, evolving workforce demands, and integrating cutting-edge technologies. We dive into: Transitioning from COO to President and mastering external engagement. The importance of aligning institutional strengths with state and national workforce needs. How UCM is using AI, augmented reality, and mixed reality to redefine education. Roger’s insights are a must-hear for anyone navigating leadership in complex, ever-changing environments. Want more insights into the Higher Ed Space? Check-out our Newsletter. Please leave a review on your favorite podcast player!! It helps support the show.

What does it take to transform a community college into a hub of opportunity and equity?  Dr. Jermaine Williams, President of Montgomery College, joins me to discuss how he’s aligning systems, leveraging data, and addressing the real needs of students to drive regional transformation.  From supporting students with food insecurity to creating systemic connections as early as middle school, Dr. Williams’s approach is redefining what’s possible in higher education.  If you care about the future of workforce development, equity, and education, this is one conversation you don’t want to miss. Want more insights into the Higher Ed Space? Check-out our Newsletter. Please leave a review on your favorite podcast player!! It helps support the show.

Have you ever felt lost in your career path, unsure of where your true passion lies? Meet Brian, a Moravian University alumnus who transformed uncertainty into leadership. From switching between five majors to ultimately discovering his love for English, Brian's story is a testament to the power of mentorship and perseverance. As he shares his journey from student to president of Moravian University, Brian offers a candid look at overcoming imposter syndrome, the role of community, and the valuable lessons his athletic background taught him about dedication and practice. Through initiatives like Heritage Day, Brian illustrates Moravian's enduring commitment to equity and service, creating a profound sense of belonging and civic engagement on campus. This episode also takes a closer look at how Moravian University is staying ahead of the curve by reshaping its curriculum to better align education with career success. As a member of the New American Colleges and Universities organization, Moravian is integrating applied liberal arts with practical fields, all while respecting its rich historical legacy as a UNESCO World Heritage site. We explore exciting developments in healthcare programs and address the growing demand for professionals in tech and cybersecurity. With a focus on inclusivity and adaptability, Moravian is uniquely positioned to serve a diverse and non-traditional student body, offering flexible, meaningful learning experiences designed for today's dynamic job market. Join us as we uncover how this historic yet forward-thinking institution is preparing students to meet contemporary challenges head-on. Want more insights into the Higher Ed Space? Check-out our Newsletter. Please leave a review on your favorite podcast player!! It helps support the show.

What if a career in the military could transition into academia? Join us as we explore this fascinating journey with our guest, a former US Army officer who now leads as a college president. This episode promises insights into how adaptability and leadership can forge new paths in personal and professional growth. We also tackle the pressures young men face today, such as the rapid pace of technological change that can lead to anxiety. Discover strategies for holistic well-being that address the physical, mental, spiritual, and nutritional aspects of life to effectively manage these modern challenges. Our conversation takes a closer look at the University of North Georgia, a unique institution with a dual identity as both a regional university and the Military College of Georgia. We shine a light on its mission to produce second lieutenants for the U.S. Army while providing a diverse array of educational programs. Learn about the ambitious expansion plans for the Corps of Cadets and how the university nurtures a service-oriented community where students from diverse backgrounds excel. This chapter showcases the dynamic and inclusive environment at UNG, and the role it plays in shaping tomorrow's leaders, whether in military, business, or healthcare fields. Navigating the future landscape of higher education with a military focus presents both challenges and opportunities. We engage in a deep discussion about the evolving value proposition of higher education, emphasizing the need for adaptability in a technologically connected world. This episode underscores the importance of teaching students not just specific skills, but the ability to learn and adapt. We reflect on the urgency of decision-making in today's fast-paced environment and the crucial balance between time and strategic thought, all while staying committed to the mission of the University of North Georgia. Want more insights into the Higher Ed Space? Check-out our Newsletter. Please leave a review on your favorite podcast player!! It helps support the show.

What does it take to transform a career from academia into leadership? Find inspiration in the journey of our guest, a leader in higher education who transitioned from a faculty role at the University of Northern Colorado to the presidency at St. Cloud State. Discover their passion for teaching and research in aging and gerontology, which evolved into a leadership role aimed at enhancing the academic environment for faculty, students, and staff. Through systems thinking and community engagement, they illustrate the lessons learned along the way, including the importance of building relationships and understanding institutional dynamics. As we navigate the challenges of transitioning to Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences, our guest shares insights on adapting leadership skills to meet institutional needs. From handling the competitive landscape in higher education to emphasizing a holistic approach that goes beyond tangible benefits, the conversation sheds light on how institutions can thrive amidst change. Learn how our guest reimagined student advising at St. Cloud State, improving retention rates by assigning dedicated student success advisors, and how these strategies can signal value in a crowded academic marketplace. Leadership development takes center stage as we explore the operational challenges within educational organizations. By introducing management frameworks like Scrum, our guest illustrates the need for continuous learning and strategic alignment with mission statements to meet community needs. Embrace the excitement of guiding campuses through transformative periods, addressing the shifting perceptions of the value of a degree, and the ongoing efforts to make a meaningful impact. This episode promises insights that underscore the critical role of thoughtful leadership in navigating the complexities of higher education. Want more insights into the Higher Ed Space? Check-out our Newsletter. Please leave a review on your favorite podcast player!! It helps support the show.

What happens when a passionate prosecutor swaps the courtroom for the classroom? Join us as David shares his unexpected journey from corporate litigator to university president, driven by a love for coaching high school football. Discover how his legal and athletic experiences uniquely inform his approach to leadership in education, especially in the demanding role of managing a faith-based college. David's story is a testament to the transformative power of education and the impact of sports on young lives. Explore the evolving landscape of higher education finance and the unique position of faith-based colleges like St. Thomas University. With college ranking systems increasingly scrutinized, we investigate the challenge for state universities to balance access and excellence. Authentic Catholic and Christian institutions are becoming attractive to students seeking education with strong values, regardless of their faith background. Hear firsthand about the financial hurdles and the unwavering commitment to maintaining educational standards in this ever-changing environment. Leadership in higher education today isn't just about managing institutions—it's about revitalizing them. David shares his strategy for effective recruitment and fostering a shared vision for success. Learn how exceptional talent and innovative leadership can turn around educational institutions, even in the face of post-pandemic hiring challenges and a tense political climate. The conversation wraps up with a powerful reminder of the invaluable role of higher education in shaping futures and the dedication of leaders tirelessly fulfilling their educational missions amidst skepticism and uncertainty. Want more insights into the Higher Ed Space? Check-out our Newsletter. Please leave a review on your favorite podcast player!! It helps support the show.