The Study Room (a podcast by the University of Sou

In this reflective and heartfelt finale of The Leader in Us podcast, hosts Sophie Crouch, Deb Kelly, Astrid Fernandez, Ha Nguyen, and Gail Carr share their experiences as UniSA's Student Leadership Scholarship recipients. This special episode explores their personal growth, leadership insights, and the collaborative projects that have defined their journey. The team highlights two major initiatives from their scholarship: the Resourcing Hub, spearheaded by Gail Carr to address resource accessibility for regional students, and the Leader in Us podcast, led by Deb Kelly, which brought diverse leadership stories to life. These projects exemplify the scholarship's community, agency, and inclusive leadership focus. Each scholar reflects on how their understanding of leadership has evolved. They highlight the importance of empathy, relationships, and resilience, sharing personal challenges and triumphs. From Ha Nguyen overcoming her introverted nature to Astrid Fernandez learning to balance empathy with productivity, their stories illustrate the transformative power of leadership when guided by authenticity and care. The episode also acknowledges the invaluable contributions of its guests, including educators, advocates, and change-makers, who shared their inspiring leadership journeys throughout the series. As the team explores Dana Shen's thought-provoking question on interconnectedness with all beings, they reflect on the ripple effects of their actions and the broader impact of mindful, inclusive leadership. The scholars close the episode by inviting listeners to reflect on their own leadership journeys and how the series has influenced their views. With gratitude to their mentor Tina Li and the UniSA community, they celebrate the culmination of an enriching and empowering experience, leaving listeners inspired to uncover the leader within themselves and tease that they may return! For more information, visit Student Leadership Scholarship (https://i.unisa.edu.au/students/scholarships/undergraduate-scholarships/scholarship-for-student-leadership)

In the debut episode of The Leader in Us podcast, hosts Sophie Crouch and Deb Kelly welcome guest speaker Sharron Jones, a regional pedagogue in Education Futures at UniSA's Whyalla campus, to discuss the transformative role of relationships in leadership and education. Sharron shares her journey as a teacher and leader in regional South Australia, where she developed and implemented "A Caring HyFlex" teaching model to address the unique needs of regional pre-service teachers. Throughout the episode, Sharron emphasises the importance of fostering strong, trust-based relationships as the cornerstone of effective leadership. She highlights her philosophy of prioritising relationships over hierarchical leadership models and shares practical strategies for creating inclusive and empathetic learning environments. These include active listening, collaboration, and building student agency by encouraging self-confidence and independence. Sharron also explores how her leadership style, rooted in humility and service, motivates her students and colleagues to embrace challenges and grow. Drawing on her experiences, she provides valuable insights into handling conflict, advocating for regional students, and inspiring others to lead by example. This heartfelt conversation highlights the power of relationship-driven leadership to transform education, promote equity, and empower future leaders. Sharron leaves listeners with a profound takeaway: By putting relationships first, everything else will naturally follow. Listeners are invited to reflect on how relationships shape their own leadership journey and consider Sharron's thought-provoking question for the next guest: How do you promote agency and confidence in others? For more information on "A Caring HyFlex Pedagogy", visit A Caring HyFlex Pedagogy (https://journals.sfu.ca/jalt/index.php/jalt/article/view/2067)

In this inspiring episode of The Leader in Us podcast, hosts Sophie Crouch and Deb Kelly delve into the remarkable journey of Dr Jessica Porter, a strategic land-use planner, PhD holder, and passionate mentor. Jessica reflects on her transition from regional Victoria to Adelaide for university, where resilience, adaptability, and personal growth played critical roles in shaping her career and leadership journey. Jessica shares candid insights into her experiences of overcoming challenges as a young professional, developing resilience, and navigating "imposter syndrome." She highlights practical strategies, such as maintaining work-life boundaries and utilising the Pomodoro Technique to boost productivity and focus. A passionate advocate for regional communities, Jessica discusses her mentoring role with the "Standing Tall in Hamilton" program, which supports students from diverse backgrounds. She emphasises the transformative power of mentoring in building confidence, fostering self-belief, and guiding young people towards achieving their dreams. Her own experiences as both a mentor and mentee underscore the value of reciprocal learning and personal growth. The conversation also explores the advantages of studying and working regionally, dispelling myths about regional disadvantages and showcasing how regional living can offer unique opportunities for professional and personal enrichment. Dr Porter leaves listeners with a thought-provoking perspective on leadership: taking ownership of mistakes, learning from them, and fostering growth through humility and self-reflection. Her journey inspires a call to embrace opportunities, take risks, and support others in their leadership paths. For more information on the Pomodoro Technique, visit https://pomodorotechnique.com

In this compelling episode of The Leader in Us podcast, hosts Sophie Crouch and Ha Nguyen engage in an insightful discussion with Kate Swaffer, a disability activist, award-winning author, and PhD candidate at UniSA. Diagnosed with young-onset dementia at 49, Kate shares her transformative journey, challenging societal perceptions and advocating for the human rights of individuals living with dementia. The episode explores Kate's leadership philosophy, which centres on service, kindness, empathy, and empowering others. Drawing from her personal and professional experiences, she discusses her advocacy for dementia as a disability, a concept she has tirelessly worked to embed in healthcare and policy frameworks. Her lived experience highlights systemic failures in post-diagnostic support and the critical need for rehabilitation for people with dementia. Kate also reflects on the challenges of challenging the status quo, including stigma, exclusion, and public criticism. She emphasises the importance of resilience, bravery, and finding a personal "why" to sustain advocacy efforts. Her insights extend to the value of collaboration, common sense, and the power of authentic inclusion in leadership. This episode is a heartfelt call to action to rethink how society supports individuals with dementia. It aims to replace outdated approaches with inclusive, rights-based practices. Kate's work underscores the potential for transformative leadership to create meaningful change. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own leadership journeys and what inspires them to make a difference. For more information about Kate, visit her website Creating Life with Words: Inspiration, Love and Truth (https://kateswaffer.com), check out her research (https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8963-2431) and her activism and work with Dementia Alliance International (https://dementiaallianceinternational.org).

In this inspiring episode of The Leader in Us podcast, hosts Sophie Crouch and Astrid Fernandez sit down with Riley Thring, a Bachelor of Environmental Science graduate from UniSA, to explore his transformative journey from a spray painter in regional South Australia to a research project officer in environmental science. Riley reflects on his transition from a physically demanding trade to pursuing higher education, driven by a passion for the outdoors, health considerations, and the desire to impact the environment positively. He shares how his involvement in UniSA+ and Aspire Platinum programs helped him develop leadership skills by turning perceived weaknesses into strengths and building resilience through challenges. The discussion delves into Riley's career path, including his role at Space Down Under, a company focused on sustainable urban design, where he contributes to biodiversity and stormwater management projects. Riley also highlights the importance of cultivating relationships, volunteering, and maintaining a growth mindset in personal and professional development. The episode emphasises leadership as an empathetic and authentic practice. Riley advocates for open communication, creating safe spaces for learning from mistakes and expanding personal growth to inspire others. His advice for those considering a career change or stepping into leadership includes seeking passions, embracing challenges, and being kind to oneself throughout the journey. As the episode concludes, Riley poses a thought-provoking question for the next guest: How can effective leaders leverage their mistakes to foster personal growth and improve their leadership skills? This conversation is a testament to the power of perseverance, adaptability, and community in shaping a meaningful career and leadership style. For more information on UniSA+ Award, visit unisa.edu.au/unisaplus

In this enlightening episode of The Leader in Us podcast, hosts Sophie Crouch and Deb Kelly engage in a rich conversation with Dana Shen, a Ngarrindjeri-Chinese consultant specialising in systems leadership and community transformation. Set against the backdrop of the Kaurna, Boandik, and Barngarla lands, the episode explores leadership through the lens of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander traditions, intersecting with Western hierarchical models. Dana shares her personal journey, shaped by the profound influence of her uncle, Uncle Moogie Sumner, and her mother, Polly Sumner, alongside the legacy of her Chinese grandparents. She discusses the unique characteristics of Aboriginal leadership, which emphasise collectivism, community transformation, and fostering young leaders. Dana delves into systemic leadership, a framework that views the world as interconnected systems, advocating for leadership that benefits all beings, including the natural world. The episode also highlights Dana's work in co-designing trauma-responsive systems and empowering communities through collaborative approaches. Her reflections on mindfulness as a tool for leadership development provide practical insights for fostering self-awareness and collective growth. Listeners are left with a thought-provoking challenge: reimagining leadership by embracing interconnectedness with all beings and systems, extending beyond human-centric approaches to include the natural world. This episode is a testament to the power of blending diverse leadership philosophies to inspire meaningful change. For more on Dana's systems leadership model, visit https://danashen.com.

In this insightful episode of The Leader in Us podcast, hosts Sophie Crouch and Astrid Fernandez welcome Nadil Bandara, an international student from Sri Lanka who advocates for disability rights. Nadil shares his inspiring journey from navigating accessibility challenges in Sri Lanka to pursuing a Master's in Information Technology in Australia, all while promoting diversity and inclusion. Nadil reflects on his transition to independent living in Australia, highlighting the transformative impact of accessible infrastructure and cultural differences in attitudes toward disability. He discusses his advocacy work, emphasising the importance of personal, everyday leadership and the power of inspiring change through meaningful, one-on-one interactions. The episode delves into Nadil's career journey, from struggling to find employment as an international student with a disability to securing a permanent position through the MCCSA's Building Employer Confidence (BEC) Project. Nadil's experience illustrates how fostering diversity in the workplace benefits individuals and organisations, paving the way for future opportunities. Nadil also shares valuable insights into cultural intelligence, authentic networking, and navigating leadership across different cultural contexts. His reflections on leadership include the significance of empathy, rational decision-making, and the balance between calculated and intuitive approaches. Listeners are left with Nadil's thought-provoking question for the next guest: When leaders make decisions, do they rely more on calculated, scientific approaches or intuitive, gut-feeling methods? This episode powerfully reminds us of the value of diverse voices and abilities in leadership, inspiring listeners to embrace challenges and lead with authenticity. For more information on the University of South Australia's Disability Hub, visit https://unisa.edu.au/visit/disability-hub

In this episode, Academic Integrity Officers Tamra Ulpen and Bec Medhurst dive deep into your most pressing questions about academic integrity. Get expert advice on: · Collaborating effectively in groups · Using AI at uni · Avoiding academic misconduct and staying informed This is your chance to gain crucial insights that will ensure your academic success. Don't miss out on this season finale! For more info & tips covered in this episode, follow the link below: https://lo.unisa.edu.au/mod/book/view.php?id=252142&chapterid=39190

Dive into the grey area of using generative AI tools in coursework. Listen to how students use artificial intelligence software to help with accessibility, time management, and improving their writing, all while emphasising ethics over efficiency. Remember, you can’t generate authenticity! For more info & tips covered in this episode, follow the link below: https://lo.unisa.edu.au/mod/book/view.php?id=252142&chapterid=367893

Dreading that upcoming group assignment? Tune in as we reveal candid student stories about the highs and lows of group work. Whether you're a seasoned team player or a reluctant participant, this episode is your go-to guide on how to turn every group assignment into a success story. For more info & tips covered in this episode, follow the link below: https://lo.unisa.edu.au/course/view.php?id=4074&sectionid=471293

COVID changed everything! Suddenly we were forced to study off campus, online, at home and for some of us, in very different time zones. Listen to current UniSA students talk about their experiences when the pandemic first started. How did they deal with the changes? What obstacles did they face? How did they stay connected and were there any positives to gain? For more info & tips covered in this episode, follow the links below: Study Help website: www.unisa.edu.au/studyhelp Time management: https://lo.unisa.edu.au/course/view.php?id=4074&sectionid=471305 Learning online: https://lo.unisa.edu.au/course/view.php?id=4074&sectionid=471290

Whether you’re on campus or online, there are plenty of ways to connect and engage with the UniSA community. But where do you start and what can you do to make authentic connections which are relevant to your needs? Listen to current UniSA students who are studying locally, regionally and overseas as they talk about the different UniSA programs and events they’re involved in, and how these have helped them achieve their personal and professional goals. For more info & tips covered in this episode, follow the links below: Volunteering (UniMentor, Gday Mates, Study Help PALs, etc.): https://i.unisa.edu.au/students/experience-unisa/leadership-program/volunteering/#/ USASA clubs (including Chatbox): https://usasa.sa.edu.au/clubs/search UniSA social media (Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, etc.): https://www.unisa.edu.au/Student-Life/Student-Experience/Connect-with-UniSA/ BUPA UniSA International Student Grant: https://i.unisa.edu.au/students/scholarships/undergraduate-scholarships/unisa-wide/#BUPAUniSAInternational Scholarships: https://i.unisa.edu.au/students/scholarships/ Leadership (ASPIRE, UniSA+, etc.): https://i.unisa.edu.au/students/experience-unisa/leadership-program/ Career Hub (UniSA Login required): https://www.unisacareerhub.unisa.edu.au/ Wellbeing at UniSA: https://i.unisa.edu.au/students/student-support-services/wellbeing-at-unisa/

What do lecturers expect from their students and what can you do to succeed? In this episode you’ll hear from academic staff at UniSA as they explain what student success looks like to them, and what strategies you can use to stand out from the crowd and achieve your best. For more info & tips covered in this episode, follow the links below: Study Help: www.unisa.edu.au/studyhelp Communicating at uni & on placement: https://lo.unisa.edu.au/course/view.php?id=4074&sectionid=471292 Learning online (using forums, interacting online at uni, etc.): https://lo.unisa.edu.au/course/view.php?id=4074&sectionid=471290

How do you turn your career goals into reality? Need some inspiration and ideas to help you connect to your profession? Hear from staff, students and alumni as they discuss the various pathways and opportunities available to you at UniSA. For more info & tips covered in this episode, follow the links below: Career Hub: https://www.unisacareerhub.unisa.edu.au/ (UniSA login required) Career Advice: https://i.unisa.edu.au/students/student-support-services/career-services/students-graduates/career-advice/ Campus Central: https://askcampuscentral.unisa.edu.au/ LinkedIn (external link): https://www.linkedin.com/home/?originalSubdomain=au

Stress – you’ll probably say it’s synonymous with study, right? But did you know it can actually be good for you too? Listen to current UniSA students and Dr. Georgina Heath (Program Director: Undergraduate Psychology Programs) as they talk about stress, its benefits and the negative triggers to look out for. Also hear about where you can get help if the stress gets that little bit too much. For more info & tips covered in this episode, follow the links below: · Time management & study: https://lo.unisa.edu.au/mod/book/view.php?id=1144639&chapterid=169634 · Study planners: https://i.unisa.edu.au/students/student-support-services/study-support/study-planners/ · Counselling at UniSA: https://i.unisa.edu.au/students/student-support-services/counselling/

Memory plays a crucial role in our ability to learn new things, and we are often tested on it during exams and quizzes. So, is there a trick to remembering what we learn? How do we retain information, and what can we do to prepare for upcoming exams? Listen to UniSA’s memory expert Dr. Alex Chatburn as well as current students as they talk about research, tips and strategies for improving your memory. For more info & tips covered in this episode, follow the links below: · Ankiapp (Flashcard app): https://www.ankiapp.com/ · Brainscape (Flashcard app): https://www.brainscape.com/ · Quizzes & exams (Study Help resources): https://lo.unisa.edu.au/mod/book/view.php?id=1144640 · Study spaces at UniSA: https://www.library.unisa.edu.au/about-the-library/study-spaces/

Sleep is something we all dream about, particularly when large assignments are due and when exams are on. Many of us will sacrifice sleep to get more study done, but do we really know the impact this has on our performance? Hear from current students as well as UniSA sleep specialist Dr. Alex Agostini as they talk about this important topic. If you snooze, will you lose? Find out! For more info & tips covered in this episode, follow the links below: · Sleep cycle: https://www.sleepcycle.com/ · UniSA article – Are you getting enough sleep? https://www.unisa.edu.au/unisanews/2019/may/story7/ · SA Health article - Good sleep = good health: https://www.sahealth.sa.gov.au/wps/wcm/connect/public+content/sa+health+internet/healthy+living/healthy+sleep/good+sleep+good+health · Counselling at UniSA: https://i.unisa.edu.au/students/student-support-services/counselling/

Social connection is proven to be a motivator when it comes to study. But how can we as students develop connection in the first place? This episode takes a closer look at the concept of isolation, and provides tips and strategies to help you feel better connected while you study. Hear insights, tips and strategies from current UniSA students as well as batyr. For more info & tips covered in this episode, follow the links below: · batyr at UniSA: https://i.unisa.edu.au/students/student-support-services/wellbeing-at-unisa/batyr-at-unisa/ · Volunteer at UniSA: https://i.unisa.edu.au/students/experience-unisa/unisaplus/volunteering/#/ · UniSA clubs and societies: https://i.unisa.edu.au/students/experience-unisa/clubs-societies/ · Counselling at UniSA: https://i.unisa.edu.au/students/student-support-services/counselling/

Relax and study – is that even possible? In this episode, you’ll hear from current students and an expert Dr. Georgina Heath (Program Director: Undergraduate Psychology Programs) as they unpack the concept of relaxation from a student perspective. Listen for tips and strategies to help you integrate relaxation into your study life. For more info & tips covered in this episode, follow the links below: · Headspace meditation app (Apple and Android): https://www.headspace.com/headspace-meditation-app · Mindfulness app (Apple): https://apps.apple.com/au/app/the-mindfulness-app/id417071430 · Counselling at UniSA: https://i.unisa.edu.au/students/student-support-services/counselling/ · 11 Scientific benefits of having a laugh: https://www.mentalfloss.com/article/539632/scientific-benefits-having-laugh

This season takes a look at study from a psychological perspective. Join Psychology placement student Ashley and Study Help PAL leaders Cassie, Kaitlyn and Sealvili as they unpack what it means to study ‘well’. Get insider tips from current students and experts on: • how to harness relaxation • connection whilst in isolation • sleep habits to improve performance • strategies for enhancing your memory • the highs and lows of stress These episodes are bite-sized so you can listen to them as you commute to uni, in between lectures, while washing the dishes or when walking the dog! Subscribe to The Study Room Podcast via SoundCloud and get psyched up for study!