Engaged By Design

Dual enrollment has become one of the fastest-growing areas of higher education, but building a successful program takes much more than simply offering college credit in high school.In part one of our conversation with Dr. EJ Anderson, we explore why students and parents are increasingly seeking dual enrollment opportunities, how dual enrollment differs from AP and IB, and what schools and colleges need to make these programs work at scale.EJ draws on 18 years of experience in dual enrollment to discuss the importance of qualified teachers, strong leadership, clear communication with families, adequate staffing, and student support. We also explore the challenges that arise when institutions pursue enrollment growth without investing in the infrastructure needed to serve students well.Along the way, EJ shares stories showing how dual enrollment can save students time and families money while opening new pathways into college and careers.In this episode:Why dual enrollment is growing nationallyDual enrollment compared with AP and IBThe importance of qualified high school instructorsHow leadership shapes successful programsWhat parents and students need to understandEnrollment fatigue and other barriersWhy teachers have such a powerful influence on participationThe tension between enrollment growth and program qualityJoin us at www.engagedbydesign.com to learn more aboutThe Course Design Accelerator Faculty-in-the-Loop AI in Higher Education

Why does a bachelor's degree require 120 credits? And what happens when an institution asks whether those credits actually represent the learning students need?In Part 2 of our conversation with Brian Ashton and Boyd Baggett, we examine the development of the three-year, 90-credit bachelor's degree offered through BYU-Idaho and BYU-Pathway Worldwide.Boyd takes us behind the scenes of a process that began years before approval: changes in accreditation standards, a growing emphasis on student learning outcomes, collaboration with the College in 3 movement, and a willingness to question assumptions built into the traditional credit-hour model.But shortening a degree isn't simply a matter of removing 30 credits. Brian and Boyd explain what had to remain, what students may give up, why the model isn't right for everyone, and why clearly defined and assessed learning outcomes are essential to maintaining quality.The conversation then turns toward institutional mission, values, AI, rapid change, and what higher education leaders will need to navigate the future.In this episode:Why BYU-Idaho pursued a 90-credit bachelor's degreeHow accreditation standards created an opening for innovationWhy the Carnegie credit hour was never designed as a measure of student learningBuilding support for the three-year degreeThe enrollment response after the new degree was announcedWhy a shorter degree cannot simply mean cutting 30 creditsWhich students benefit most—and which may notWhat students give up in a more prescriptive degree pathwayEmployer and graduate-school response to the three-year degreePreserving institutional mission while redesigning curriculumNavigating AI, changing values, and a rapidly changing worldBrian and Boyd's advice for engaging learners more effectivelyThe three-year degree raises a larger question for higher education: If students can demonstrate the learning they need in less time and at lower cost, what assumptions are we willing to reconsider?Guests: Brian Ashton, President, BYU-Pathway Worldwide; Boyd Baggett, Associate Academic Vice President for Curriculum, BYU-IdahoHosts: Michael Cottam and Vernon Smith, Engaged by DesignJoin us at www.engagedbydesign.com to learn more aboutThe Course Design Accelerator Faculty-in-the-Loop AI in Higher Education

What would higher education look like if it were designed from the beginning for students who need education to be affordable, flexible, relevant, and immediately useful?In Part 1 of our conversation with Brian Ashton, president of BYU-Pathway Worldwide, and Boyd Baggett, associate academic vice president for curriculum at BYU-Idaho, we explore a model now serving nearly 100,000 students around the world.Brian and Boyd explain how BYU-Pathway combines online-first design, dramatically different tuition models, student support, and job-ready stackable certificates to create pathways into meaningful work and bachelor's degrees. We also discuss how designing specifically for online education changes the economics of higher education—and how BYU-Pathway uses data, instructional design, and AI to support students at scale.Along the way, Brian shares the story of a student in Argentina whose first certificate helped launch a career that eventually led to a vice president role at JPMorgan Chase.In this episode:Why talent may be equally distributed while opportunity is notHow BYU-Pathway serves students in nearly 200 countriesDesigning for online learning rather than adapting a campus modelKeeping education affordable while maintaining qualityWhy students begin with job-ready certificates instead of general educationHow stackable certificates lead toward associate and bachelor's degreesUsing data and AI to provide better student support at scaleDesigning curriculum around changing labor-market needsPreparing students not simply to use AI, but to develop judgment and become lifelong learnersThis is Part 1 of a two-part conversation. In Part 2, we explore one of BYU-Idaho and BYU-Pathway's most significant innovations: the three-year bachelor's degree.Guests: Brian Ashton, President, BYU-Pathway Worldwide; Boyd Baggett, Associate Academic Vice President for Curriculum, BYU-IdahoJoin us at www.engagedbydesign.com to learn more aboutThe Course Design Accelerator Faculty-in-the-Loop AI in Higher Education

What does it take to build a nationally competitive cybersecurity program from the ground up?Dr. Ken Williams knows firsthand.In the final episode of this series, Ken shares the challenges of launching Louisiana's first fully aligned cybersecurity degree program—from curriculum design and faculty hiring to building industry partnerships and preparing students for careers with organizations like the FBI, NASA, Cisco, IBM, and Amazon Web Services.The conversation closes with Ken's deeply personal philosophy of teaching: treating every student like family while challenging them to become confident critical thinkers who are ready to solve problems the world hasn't even imagined yet.It's an inspiring conversation about leadership, service, and creating educational experiences that truly change lives.In this episodeLaunching Southern University's cybersecurity programBuilding a degree program from scratchHiring and developing cybersecurity facultyCreating partnerships with industry leadersPreparing students for careers in government and technologyLouisiana's statewide cybersecurity consortiumLessons in educational leadershipHow to engage more learners more effectivelyJoin us at www.engagedbydesign.com to learn more aboutThe Course Design Accelerator Faculty-in-the-Loop AI in Higher Education

Artificial intelligence is transforming cybersecurity, but it isn't replacing cybersecurity professionals.It's making their work even more essential.In Part 2 of this conversation, Dr. Ken Williams explains how AI is fundamentally changing both cyber defense and cyber attacks. Through practical stories and easy-to-understand analogies, he explores zero-day vulnerabilities, phishing attacks, ransomware, digital identity, and why cybersecurity has become one of the most critical professions in modern society.Ken also shares how industry certifications, academic programs, and real-world experience must work together to prepare students for careers that will continue evolving alongside AI.Whether you're an educator, technology leader, or simply someone trying to understand today's cybersecurity landscape, this episode offers valuable insight into where the future is headed.In this episodeBuilding a cybersecurity academy near QuanticoWhy certifications matter alongside degreesClosing the gap between academia and industryUnderstanding zero-day vulnerabilitiesAI's impact on cybersecurityThe evolving threat of phishing and ransomwareWhy cybersecurity careers are growing—not disappearingHow AI is reshaping national securityJoin us at www.engagedbydesign.com to learn more aboutThe Course Design Accelerator Faculty-in-the-Loop AI in Higher Education

What does military communications in the Gulf War have to do with educating tomorrow's cybersecurity professionals?Quite a lot.In Part 1 of this conversation, Vernon Smith sits down with Dr. Ken Williams to explore an extraordinary career that spans military service, cybersecurity leadership, and higher education innovation. Ken shares how leading communications teams in the Army during Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm shaped his philosophy of leadership, preparation, and mission-critical thinking.The conversation then shifts to higher education, where Ken discusses earning the prestigious NSA Center of Academic Excellence designation, redesigning cybersecurity curriculum around real workforce needs, and helping pioneer an accelerated three-year bachelor's degree that reduced costs while maintaining academic quality.If you've ever wondered how higher education can better prepare students for today's rapidly changing workforce, this episode offers a compelling blueprint.In this episodeKen's journey from Guyana to the U.S. ArmyBuilding communications infrastructure during the Gulf WarLeadership lessons from the militaryWhy cybersecurity education needed to changeThe NSA Center of Academic Excellence programConnecting curriculum to real workforce skillsDesigning an innovative three-year cybersecurity degreeLessons from collaborating across higher education systemsJoin us at www.engagedbydesign.com to learn more aboutThe Course Design Accelerator Faculty-in-the-Loop AI in Higher Education

How do you help educators adapt, grow, and thrive in a rapidly changing world?In Part 2 of our conversation with Dr. Kimberly Jacobs, we explore lessons learned from decades of faculty development, leadership, and change management. Kim shares insights from her work leading the Center for Teaching and Learning at American Public University System, where she supported thousands of faculty members as they developed new teaching practices, adopted emerging technologies, and improved student engagement.The conversation also explores coaching, professional development, AI, online learning, and the ongoing challenge of helping educators embrace change while remaining focused on student success.In this episode: Why great subject matter experts aren't always trained teachers  The importance of learning methodology and adult learning theory  Coaching versus telling in faculty development  Building effective professional development programs  Faculty readiness for AI and emerging technologies  Lessons learned from large-scale change initiatives  Rethinking general education for modern learners  Why meaningful learning happens one person at a time Key TakeawayEffective educational leadership isn't about changing everyone at once. It's about building relationships, creating opportunities for growth, and helping each learner move forward from where they are today.#highereducation #facultydevelopment #leadership #onlinelearning #artificialintelligence #changemanagement #engagedbydesignJoin us at www.engagedbydesign.com to learn more aboutThe Course Design Accelerator Faculty-in-the-Loop AI in Higher Education

Artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping higher education and the workforce our students are entering. The question for institutions is no longer whether to engage with AI—but whether they will do so intentionally.In this episode of the Engaged By Design Podcast, Michael Cottam and Vernon Smith talk with Heather Pelkie, who leads AI initiatives at West Coast University and serves as an Assistant Professor of Communication.Heather shares how her work sits at the intersection of AI innovation, learning design, and organizational strategy. She discusses how institutions can move beyond reactive experimentation toward thoughtful implementation that prepares students to work alongside AI systems.The conversation explores the rapid pace of technological change, the importance of keeping humans at the center of AI use, and new ways educators can design experiential learning using AI-powered simulations and interactive tools.This is Part 1 of a two-part conversation exploring how higher education can lead the AI transformation rather than lag behind it.Key Topics DiscussedThe intersection of AI, higher education, and workforce readinessWhy higher education is at an inflection point with AIMoving from reactive AI experimentation to intentional strategyThe accelerating pace of AI change and how leaders stay informedKeeping the human in the loop when using AI toolsUsing the “How Might We” innovation question to unlock new possibilitiesDesigning experiential learning with AI simulations and agentsPreparing graduates for an AI-integrated workforceWest Coast University - https://www.westcoastuniversity.eduEngaged By Design - https://www.engagedbydesign.comJoin us at www.engagedbydesign.com to learn more aboutThe Course Design Accelerator Faculty-in-the-Loop AI in Higher Education

In this final installment of their conversation with Dr. Kate Zatz, Michael Cottam and Vernon Smith explore one of the most difficult and urgent topics facing higher education today: antisemitism on college campuses and the responsibility of institutional leaders to respond with integrity and wisdom.Kate begins by sharing personal background about her family, her children’s Jewish upbringing, and the way these issues became very real through her son’s experiences as a student. She recounts troubling incidents of antisemitism at the University of Vermont and reflects on the role that advocacy organizations, student organizing, and federal Title VI complaints have played in pushing institutions to respond.The conversation then moves into a larger leadership discussion. Kate argues that many higher education leaders are not adequately prepared for the complexity of the institutions they are asked to lead. She raises important questions about leadership pipelines, institutional memory, and the loss of knowledge continuity in higher education.Vernon and Michael invite Kate to reflect on what gives her hope in the face of these challenges. Her answer points not to grand systems alone, but to the everyday work of raising thoughtful children, mentoring emerging leaders, continuing to learn, and choosing to keep going even after setbacks.The episode closes with a fitting reflection on Kate’s legacy: not only the thousands of students whose diplomas bear her signature, but the many leaders she has encouraged, mentored, and helped prepare for the work ahead.This final conversation is both sobering and hopeful—a reminder that higher education leadership requires courage, memory, compassion, and a deep commitment to people.Key Topics CoveredKate Zatz’s family story and Jewish identityAntisemitism on college campusesStudent advocacy and Title VI complaintsThe role of the Brandeis Center and Jewish on CampusLeadership responsibility in moments of crisisWhy institutional policies and practices matterKnowledge continuity and institutional memory in higher educationConcerns about leadership preparation and presidential pipelinesThe importance of history, learning, and moral awarenessMentorship, hope, and legacy in a life of serviceKey Resources for this EpisodeBrandeis Center - https://brandeiscenter.comJewish on Campus - https://www.jewishoncampus.orgJoin us at www.engagedbydesign.com to learn more aboutThe Course Design Accelerator Faculty-in-the-Loop AI in Higher Education

In part two, the conversation turns to artificial intelligence and its impact on higher education. Kate shares her experiences teaching during the rapid rise of AI tools and discusses the challenges they create for assessment, academic integrity, and course design.The discussion also explores how educators can respond by designing meaningful learning experiences that emphasize collaboration, critical thinking, and real-world problem solving.Join us at www.engagedbydesign.com to learn more aboutThe Course Design Accelerator Faculty-in-the-Loop AI in Higher Education

In part one of this conversation, Dr. Kate Zatz shares the personal story that shaped her commitment to students and higher education. From her journey as a first-generation college student to her leadership roles across multiple institutions, Kate reflects on mentorship, student involvement, and the importance of belonging in higher education.She also discusses her decades of work with the Girl Scouts and why leadership development and community support matter more than ever for young people today.Join us at www.engagedbydesign.com to learn more aboutThe Course Design Accelerator Faculty-in-the-Loop AI in Higher Education

What can leaders learn from the natural world?In this episode of the Engaged By Design Podcast, Michael Cottam and Vernon Smith continue their conversation with Dr. Kathy Hagler and Robin Graham, co-authors of The ABCs of Murmuration: Collective Wisdom of Nature.Building on the concept of Flock Logic, the conversation explores how leaders and organizations can adapt, move together, and learn from the rhythms of nature.Kathy and Robin introduce the idea of “walking in a new way” — shifting how we think about leadership, collaboration, and innovation. Through stories, research, and practical insights, they show how collective movement, shared rhythm, and distributed leadership can help organizations navigate complexity and change.If you work in education, leadership, or organizational development, this episode will challenge you to rethink how groups move, learn, and evolve together.Extended Show NotesNature offers powerful lessons for leadership — especially when we observe how complex systems move and adapt together.In this episode, Michael and Vernon welcome back Dr. Kathy Hagler and Robin Graham, authors of The ABCs of Murmuration: Collective Wisdom of Nature. Their work explores how patterns found in nature — particularly bird murmurations — reveal powerful insights about collaboration, adaptability, and collective intelligence.During the conversation, they explore:What murmuration can teach us about collective leadershipThe concept of Flock Logic and shared rhythm in organizationsWhy leadership today requires movement rather than controlHow organizations can adapt by “walking in a new way”The power of distributed leadership and emergent collaborationLessons from nature that apply to education, innovation, and changeRather than relying on rigid hierarchies, effective organizations learn to move like living systems — sensing, adapting, and responding together.For leaders navigating uncertainty, these ideas provide a fresh lens for understanding how people and organizations can thrive in complex environments.Join us at www.engagedbydesign.com to learn more aboutThe Course Design Accelerator Faculty-in-the-Loop AI in Higher Education

In this episode, Michael and Vernon continue their conversation with Dr. Ira Lovitch as they explore the final two elements of his Five M’s framework for innovation.While technology and processes matter, Ira argues that lasting innovation ultimately comes down to people and the environments in which they work and learn.The conversation highlights how leadership, culture, and care for students shape meaningful progress in higher education.Show NotesIn this episode we discuss:The Human element of innovationWhy leadership and relationships matter in changeCreating environments where innovation can growHow educators can better engage today’s studentsWhy effective leadership begins with heart and soulThis episode concludes our two-part conversation with Dr. Ira Lovitch. Dr. Ira Lovitch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iralovitch557 Mount St. Mary’s University: https://www.msmu.edu/Engaged By Design: https://engagedbydesign.comJoin us at www.engagedbydesign.com to learn more aboutThe Course Design Accelerator Faculty-in-the-Loop AI in Higher Education

In this episode of the Engaged By Design Podcast, Michael and Vernon welcome Dr. Ira Lovitch, an experienced business faculty member and longtime educator in online higher education.Ira introduces his Five M’s framework for innovation, a model that helps leaders understand how change happens inside organizations. In this first part of the conversation, the discussion focuses on the first three elements of the model:MeasurementMethodsMachinesTogether, they explore how institutions evaluate progress, improve processes, and leverage technology to support meaningful innovation in education.This conversation is especially valuable for leaders and educators working to navigate change in complex institutions.Show NotesIn this episode we discuss:Ira Lovitch’s Five M’s framework for innovationWhy measurement matters when evaluating changeHow methods and processes shape innovationThe role of technology and tools (“machines”) in educationLessons from years of teaching and leading in online higher educationThis episode is Part 1 of a two-part conversation.In the next episode, we explore the final two elements of Ira’s framework: Humans and Environment.Dr. Ira Lovitch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iralovitch557 Mount St. Mary’s University: https://www.msmu.edu/Engaged By Design: https://engagedbydesign.comJoin us at www.engagedbydesign.com to learn more aboutThe Course Design Accelerator Faculty-in-the-Loop AI in Higher Education

Episode DescriptionIn Part 2 of this conversation on the Engaged By Design Podcast, Dr. Michael Cottam continues his discussion with Andrea Dunn, focusing on the evolving landscape of Open Educational Resources, generative AI, and change leadership in higher education.Andrea reflects on how institutions are responding to rising costs, emerging technologies, and shifting learner expectations—and why successful change requires more than new tools. From AI-supported workflows to small but meaningful design decisions, this episode highlights the deeply human side of innovation.Leaders will gain practical insights into navigating resistance, identity, and trust while guiding teams through continuous change.In this episode, we explore:How OER has evolved across states and institutionsWhat generative AI is changing—and what still requires human judgmentWhy small design and language choices can shape learner belongingHow listening and empathy strengthen leadership during disruptionThis episode is ideal for leaders, faculty, and professionals seeking thoughtful, learner-centered approaches to innovation in higher education.Join us at www.engagedbydesign.com to learn more aboutThe Course Design Accelerator Faculty-in-the-Loop AI in Higher Education

Episode DescriptionIn this episode of the Engaged By Design Podcast, Dr. Michael Cottam and Dr. Vernon Smith are joined by Andrea Dunn, a strategic technology and operations leader with more than 20 years of experience driving large-scale initiatives in higher education.Andrea shares behind-the-scenes insights from her work leading enterprise course materials and Open Educational Resource (OER) initiatives at scale—impacting tens of thousands of learners. Together, we explore what it really takes to implement meaningful change across complex systems while keeping students, faculty, and staff at the center.This conversation is especially valuable for leaders working from the middle—those navigating priorities, resistance, and execution across institutional boundaries.In this episode, we discuss:How OER and digital course materials can reduce cost while improving access and learning outcomesWhat large-scale change looks like behind the scenes in higher educationHow agile and product-focused leadership supports sustainable innovationWhy listening, iteration, and empathy matter as much as strategyWhether you work in academic leadership, instructional design, IT, or student support, this episode offers practical lessons for leading change thoughtfully and effectively.Join us at www.engagedbydesign.com to learn more aboutThe Course Design Accelerator Faculty-in-the-Loop AI in Higher Education

Episode DescriptionWhat does it really take to lead change from the middle of an institution?In Part 2 of this conversation, Dr. Michael Cottam and Dr. Christina Dryden explore leadership, trust-building, and the realities of managing change across complex higher education organizations. The discussion then turns to AI—how instructional design, assessment, and faculty roles are evolving, and why keeping humans in the loop matters more than ever.This episode offers practical wisdom for academic leaders navigating constant change with clarity, authenticity, and hope.Key TopicsLeading change without positional authorityTrust, transparency, and authenticity in leadershipLearning from mentors and leadership experiencesUsing AI responsibly in instructional design and assessmentPreparing institutions and faculty for the AI-enabled futureGuestChristina Dryden Vice Provost, American College of Financial Services Explore the AI Course Design Accelerator at www.engagedbydesign.comJoin us at www.engagedbydesign.com to learn more aboutThe Course Design Accelerator Faculty-in-the-Loop AI in Higher Education

Episode DescriptionHow do students really choose a college—and what do families often overlook?In Part 1 of this conversation, Dr. Michael Cottam and Dr. Christina Dryden explore how students make college decisions, what criteria matter most to them, and why the true value of higher education goes far beyond rankings and prestige.Drawing from Christina’s experience as a Vice Provost, assessment leader, and parent, this episode examines college choice through a human lens—focusing on formation, learning how to learn, relationships, and preparing students for a lifetime of change.Key TopicsHow students evaluate colleges differently than parents expectGraduation rates, fit, and hands-on learningWhy rankings often matter more to institutions than studentsThe deeper return on investment of higher educationEducation as preparation for the eighth job, not the firstGuestChristina Dryden Vice Provost, American College of Financial Services Explore the AI Course Design Accelerator at www.engagedbydesign.comJoin us at www.engagedbydesign.com to learn more aboutThe Course Design Accelerator Faculty-in-the-Loop AI in Higher Education

Episode DescriptionIn Part 2 of our conversation with Dr. Kate Smith, we turn our focus to the future of learning, workforce development, and artificial intelligence in higher education.Kate shares how Rio Salado College is partnering with national employers, emerging industries, and workforce organizations to create flexible, skills-based pathways for learners across the country. We explore partnerships with Guild Education, Walgreens, and a 3D concrete-printing company reshaping construction careers.The conversation then dives deeply into AI literacy, ethics, and the responsibility of colleges to prepare learners for an AI-accelerated world—while preserving critical thinking, questioning, and human judgment.This episode offers a hopeful, pragmatic vision of lifelong learning designed around access, adaptability, and real-world relevance.Key Topics / Show NotesRio Salado’s national workforce partnershipsWorking with Guild Education and employer-driven program designPharmacy, nursing, and career-start pathways3D-printed housing and future construction careersPreparing learners for emerging industriesServing adult learners, incarcerated learners, and ESL studentsOn-ramps, off-ramps, and stackable credentialsMicrocredentials and durable skillsAI literacy as a core educational responsibilityEthical and responsible use of AI in learningRedesigning teaching and assessment in the age of AIThe future of digital learning environmentsReducing friction and barriers to postsecondary accessHow leaders can engage more learners more effectivelyReflection QuestionWhat can you do right now to embed AI literacy and ethical use into your learners’ pathways?Join us at www.engagedbydesign.com to learn more aboutThe Course Design Accelerator Faculty-in-the-Loop AI in Higher Education

Episode DescriptionIn Part 1 of our conversation, we sit down with Dr. Kate Smith, President of Rio Salado College, to explore how culture, empathy, and innovation shape sustainable leadership in higher education.Kate shares her personal leadership journey—from completing an Ironman to stepping into the presidency at a pivotal moment—and reflects on what it takes to intentionally steward culture over time. We discuss Rio Salado’s long-standing commitment to innovation, the Four Practices of Engagement (mindfulness, empathy, happiness, and resilience), and how those practices helped guide the institution through periods of rapid change.This episode offers a masterclass in values-driven leadership, showing how culture doesn’t happen by accident—it happens through daily, intentional choices.Key Topics / Show NotesKate Smith’s leadership journey and Ironman storyStepping into the presidency during a moment of changeWhy culture must be intentionally shaped by leadersRio Salado’s history of innovation and continuous improvementThe Four Practices of Engagement:MindfulnessEmpathyHappinessResilienceBuilding connection and belonging in a distributed, online institutionAll-employee engagement during COVIDLaunching Rio Salado’s first Alumni Hall of FameEmpowering students as partners in innovationLearning from other industries to fuel higher-ed innovationCreating space for experimentation and “productive messiness”Reflection QuestionWhere in your leadership are you letting culture happen instead of intentionally shaping it?Join us at www.engagedbydesign.com to learn more aboutThe Course Design Accelerator Faculty-in-the-Loop AI in Higher Education

Episode Description:In the final episode of this series, Dr. Tom Lombardo challenges us to see the future as a shared act of creation. Wisdom, agency, and responsibility—at both individual and collective levels—are essential to shaping what comes next.Key Topics:- The future as participatory, not predetermined- Wisdom as future-directed action- Individual and collective agency- Nurturing the future through conscious choiceFind Dr. Lombardo's work on his website at: https://centerforfutureconsciousness.com/ Join us at www.engagedbydesign.com to learn more aboutThe Course Design Accelerator Faculty-in-the-Loop AI in Higher Education

Episode Description: In part two, Dr. Tom Lombardo explores science fiction as more than entertainment—it is the evolutionary mythology of the future. This conversation examines how stories shape our imagination, reflect cultural values, and expand our understanding of what humanity could become.  Key Topics: - Science fiction as modern mythology - Stories as tools for ethical and future thinking - Cultural reflection through science fiction - Utopian and dystopian visionsFind Dr. Lombardo's work on his website at: https://centerforfutureconsciousness.com/ Join us at www.engagedbydesign.com to learn more aboutThe Course Design Accelerator Faculty-in-the-Loop AI in Higher Education

Episode Description: In part one of this three-part series, Dr. Tom Lombardo reflects on the experiences that shaped his lifelong curiosity about time, history, and the future. From childhood fascinations with dinosaurs and the Civil War to formative lessons learned through weightlifting, mentorship, and education, Tom explores how character, discipline, and imagination form the foundation for wisdom.  Key Topics: - Learning from the past to understand the present - Mentorship and finding your own voice - Discipline, character, and creativity - Why imagination matters for future thinkingFind Dr. Lombardo's work on his website at: https://centerforfutureconsciousness.com/ Join us at www.engagedbydesign.com to learn more aboutThe Course Design Accelerator Faculty-in-the-Loop AI in Higher Education

In this episode of the Engaged By Design Podcast, we welcome back Kathy Hagler and Robin Graham, co-authors of The ABCs of Murmuration.Together, we explore Flock Logic—a powerful nature-inspired framework drawn from the mesmerizing behavior of starlings—and how it applies to leadership, teamwork, and learning organizations.You’ll discover:Why high-functioning groups don’t need a single leader to move togetherThe three natural principles behind murmuration: alignment, separation, and cohesionHow those principles translate into human leadership behaviors: step up, step back, and step togetherWhy trust, awareness, and connection matter more than controlSimple practices leaders and educators can use immediately to create rhythm, flow, and shared responsibilityIf you’re navigating uncertainty, change, or collaboration fatigue, this conversation offers a hopeful and practical path forward—one grounded in nature, humanity, and collective wisdom.Join us at www.engagedbydesign.com to learn more aboutThe Course Design Accelerator Faculty-in-the-Loop AI in Higher Education

Podcast: Engaged By Design Episode: Part 3 — Becoming Happy Now Guest: Dr. Sylvia Nemmers — scientist, educator, department chair, survivor, and author of Happy Now.Episode SummaryIn this powerful final chapter of her story, Dr. Sylvia Nemmers discusses what it means to truly know yourself, especially after life has shaken the identity you’ve relied on. She describes the quiet courage of rebuilding life after an abusive marriage, the freedom and grounding she found living alone by the ocean, and the transformative experience of training with a guide dog—a moment that marked her return to visibility, agency, and authenticity.Sylvia shares what “Happy Now” really means: not perfection, not the absence of struggle, but a steady alignment between truth and peace. She reflects on fearlessness—its strengths and its risks—and how she learned the difference between courage and recklessness. Her story reminds listeners that healing isn’t a single breakthrough. It’s a lifelong practice of listening inward, choosing authenticity, and allowing yourself to be seen.Key TopicsReclaiming Identity After Trauma – Leaving an abusive marriage – Discovering safety, solitude, and inner listening – Unlearning fear-based habitsTraining with a Guide Dog – Choosing visibility after years of “not acting blind” – The emotional work of becoming independent again – Learning to trust herself as much as the dogFearlessness vs Recklessness – Being named one of Iowa’s “Fearless Women” – The shadow side of fearlessness: pushing too hard, too far – Learning discernment and emotional boundariesDefining “Happy Now” – Happiness as alignment, not accomplishment – Peace as a practice – Choosing joy without ignoring painIdentity, Truth, and Leadership – What authenticity looks like in adulthood – Saying “no” to roles that shrink your voice – Using your story to empower othersQuotes“Spending time with myself, I realized: that doesn’t define who I am.”“If I'm everybody’s favorite flavor, am I my own favorite flavor anymore?”“I can’t do it the way everyone else does it — but I can figure out my own way, and that’s okay.”“Everything is possible — if you have the desire, the time, and the commitment.”Reflection QuestionWhere in your life are you being invited to choose authenticity over expectation?ResourcesBook: Happy Now — Shattering the Myth of Happily Ever After (Amazon - https://amzn.to/49PHHYZ).Sylvia’s speaking & consulting: BeyondLimits.cc.Engaged By Design: MACRO Leadership resources.Join us at www.engagedbydesign.com to learn more aboutThe Course Design Accelerator Faculty-in-the-Loop AI in Higher Education

Podcast: Engaged By Design Episode: Part 2 — Faith, Culture & Courage Abroad Guest: Dr. Sylvia Nemmers — scientist, educator, world traveler, multilingual mother, and author of Happy Now.Episode SummaryIn this second installment of our three-part conversation, Dr. Sylvia Nemmers takes us around the globe—Pakistan, Jordan, Greece, and beyond—to explore what happens when identity, faith, disability, and culture intersect.She shares how falling in love with a Pakistani student reshaped her worldview, how a spiritual moment in St. Peter’s Basilica led to an unexpected conversion to Islam, and how living across cultures forced her to confront assumptions she didn’t know she held. Sylvia speaks openly about learning Arabic through immersion with children, navigating strict gender norms, raising her own children across borders, and discovering humility as a transformative leadership tool.This episode illuminates what it means to be a cultural learner, not just a cultural observer. It shows that empathy can only flourish when we stop assuming our own lens is universal.Key TopicsFalling in love across cultures – Meeting international students – Recognizing shared identity as “outsiders” in academic settings – Navigating family expectations and early marriage – Beginning life in PakistanConversion to Islam – The pivotal moment in St. Peter’s Basilica – Faith as recognition rather than instruction – Joy, continuity, and spiritual belongingLife in Pakistan – NGO work in the Northwest Territory – Navigating conservative norms (“Don’t act blind; no one will respect you”) – Learning agency and self-advocacy in unfamiliar systemsJordan: Lessons in Humility – Raising children in multilingual, multigenerational households – Misunderstandings with in-laws and the power of listening – Learning Arabic through play and daily life – Major cultural adjustment: food, family, and rhythm of lifeGreece: A different kind of freedom – Experiences outside extended family structure – Observing different models of happiness and social life – Gaining a more global understanding of “normal”Universal Lesson: Unlearning Assumptions – Recognizing that each culture has internal logic and dignity – Learning to ask questions instead of drawing conclusions – Seeing disability differently in each country – Realizing humility is the beginning of wisdomQuotes“When you live in another culture, you stop assuming the way you see the world is the only way.”“People have grabbed me on the street, and I’ve said, ‘I’ve been blind a long time. I’m very good at it.’”“As educators, we have expertise and resources—but the person we’re working with is the expert on themselves.”“Humility is what keeps curiosity alive.”Reflection QuestionWhat assumptions about people or cultures might you need to unlearn in order to see more clearly?ResourcesBook: Happy Now — Shattering the Myth of Happily Ever After (Amazon - https://amzn.to/49PHHYZ).Sylvia’s speaking & consulting: BeyondLimits.cc.Engaged By Design: MACRO Leadership resources.Join us at www.engagedbydesign.com to learn more aboutThe Course Design Accelerator Faculty-in-the-Loop AI in Higher Education

Podcast: Engaged By Design Episode: Part 1 — Authenticity & Resilience Guest: Dr. Sylvia Nemmers — scientist, educator, and author of Happy Now: Shattering the Myth of Happily Ever AfterEpisode SummaryFrom childhood blindness to becoming a scientist and department chair, Sylvia traces how authenticity, curiosity, and courageous mentors shaped her leadership. She shares her early life in an institution for the blind, the hard pivot to a mainstream Catholic school, and the creative lab workaround a professor designed that unlocked independence and confidence.Key MomentsOpening, Sylvia’s reveal (born blind; limited sight after age-4 surgery); framing authenticity and strength. “Happily ever after” myth vs reality; first vision (sunlight hurts; learning to adapt).Institution years: separation, “authentic me,” and the fire-escape slide (bare feet in the Iowa snow!).Transition to Catholic school: social codes, learning hurdles, stubborn hope.Father’s influence: math on car rides, love of chemistry, finding equal footing in science.Barriers & resolve: counselor skepticism; “evaluate my ability, the job is mine to find.”Mentor moment: Dr. Larry Davis’ notched-syringe hack enabling precise dilutions; lab independence.Universal design & the social model of disability; partnering with learners to remove barriers.Quotes“At that school, I was authentically me… No one expected you to be normal, and that was a blessing.”“There are some things you can’t change… and then figure out ways to make it work.”“Words are powerful. What you say to your students can change their whole future.”Reflection QuestionHow have you overcome your own limitations—or the labels that others have given you?Resources & LinksBook: Happy Now — Shattering the Myth of Happily Ever After (Amazon - https://amzn.to/49PHHYZ).Sylvia’s speaking & consulting: BeyondLimits.cc.Engaged By Design: MACRO Leadership resources.Join us at www.engagedbydesign.com to learn more aboutThe Course Design Accelerator Faculty-in-the-Loop AI in Higher Education

In this episode of the Engaged By Design Podcast, Michael and Vernon sit down with Rachel Sweeney, Scholarly Communications Librarian at Bucknell University, for a deep and candid conversation about how generative AI is reshaping scholarship, copyright, authorship, and trust in academic knowledge.Drawing on her background in documentary filmmaking, copyright, and publishing, Rachel explains why the scholarly record is so difficult to define—and why generative AI poses such a profound challenge to it. Together, we explore fair use, authors’ rights, AI hallucinations, fabricated citations, predatory journals, data scraping, and the market impact on creators and scholars across disciplines.Rachel also shares practical guidance for faculty, librarians, students, and researchers who want to use AI responsibly while protecting the integrity of their work.This is a timely and essential conversation for anyone navigating the pressures and promises of AI in higher education.Key Topics CoveredRachel’s nontraditional path from filmmaking to scholarly communicationsWhat the “scholarly record” is—and why defining it is so complexHow generative AI companies have used copyrighted materials in trainingThe explosion of AI-generated content and its impact on academic publishingWhy recursive AI training produces “AI slop”How attribution breaks down when AI scrapes content without citing itCopyright fundamentals and the limits of fair useReal-world examples from Hollywood, journalism, and academiaThe rise of fabricated citations and nonexistent DOIsClass action lawsuits involving monographs and AI scrapingHow scholars and students can verify sources and protect their workWhy ORCID, DOIs, and Google Scholar profiles matter more than everEthical considerations for using AI in teaching and learningThe market impact on early-career professionals and creative workersPractical tips for responsible, thoughtful, academically honest AI useReflection Question for ListenersHow can faculty, librarians, and students use AI more thoughtfully, ethically, and responsibly at your institution?We invite you to reflect on this question with your colleagues and teams and consider how these insights can shape your academic and organizational practices.Featured GuestRachel Sweeney Scholarly Communications Librarian Bucknell UniversityMid-Roll PromotionABCs of Murmuration with Kathy Hagler & Robin Graham Helping leaders create healthy, adaptive, connected organizations. Learn more at: abcsofmurmuration.comJoin us at www.engagedbydesign.com to learn more aboutThe Course Design Accelerator Faculty-in-the-Loop AI in Higher Education

Episode SummaryIn this special conference edition of the Engaged By Design Podcast, Michael and Vernon bring listeners directly into the heart of the Online Learning Consortium (OLC) conference exhibit hall. This episode blends thoughtful narration with real, unedited booth-floor audio conversations between the Engaged By Design team.You’ll hear Michael and Vernon reflect on conference attendance, the uncertainty of today’s VUCA higher education climate, and the overwhelming presence of AI in sessions and vendor halls. They share reactions from Course Design Accelerator demos — especially the moment attendees gasped when a complete Canvas course was exported live in seconds.Jarred joins to reflect on the challenges institutions are facing around AI, innovation, and course development. He explains why solution-first thinking is leading campuses down homogenizing paths, and why the real innovation lives within people, not tools.Vernon and Michael discuss new learning research, including the study showing how students learn more when they draft first and use AI second. They talk openly about academic integrity, learning theory, and the role of faculty in shaping responsible, discipline-specific AI use.The episode closes with a story from Jarred about a meaningful human connection he made at the booth — a reminder that, even amid technological change, the heart of education is still people.Key Topics CoveredWhat we observed at the 2025 Online Learning Consortium conferenceWhy attendance felt different this year (budget constraints, cancellations, VUCA realities)How AI dominated the conversations — and why nobody fully understands its implications yetDemo reactions to the Course Design Accelerator and Canvas exportSolution-first vs. problem-first thinking in edtechThe role of design thinking, backward design, and intentionality in course developmentNew research on learning and AI (FMRI essay-writing study)The future of student learning & time-on-taskFaculty-in-the-loop AI and preventing “AI slop”The difference between shiny tools and practical innovationJarred’s reflections on human connection in crowded spacesWhy authentic interactions matter even more than technologyNotable Quotes“Technology should lighten the load without replacing the creativity or humanity.” – Vernon“AI isn’t the solution. The solution is already inside the institution — in the people and the processes.” – Jarred“You still need time on task. You still need cognitive effort. AI can’t do the learning for you.” – Michael“The future of education isn’t AI alone. It’s human. It’s faculty in the loop.” – Michael LinksEngaged By Design AI Tools: https://www.engagedbydesign.com/course-design-ai-tools OLC Conference: https://onlinelearningconsortium.org/events/  Join us at www.engagedbydesign.com to learn more aboutThe Course Design Accelerator Faculty-in-the-Loop AI in Higher Education

Kathy Hagler and Robin Graham return to explore the “ME” in their ABCs of Murmuration framework—where awareness, beliefs, and connection lay the foundation for leaderful collaboration.In this episode of the Engaged By Design Podcast, Dr. Vernon Smith and Dr. Michael Cottam welcome back Dr. Kathy Hagler and Robin Graham, authors of The ABCs of Murmuration.They unpack the “ME” in their leadership framework—showing how awareness, beliefs, and connection create the foundation for authentic collaboration.Kathy and Robin share powerful metaphors about starlings, symphonies, and marching bands, as well as the story of Mozart’s Starling.Robin also shares a moving personal reflection from Durango, illustrating how awareness and connection transform grief into leadership presence.Key TopicsWhy leadership begins with “ME” before “WE” or “US”The ABCs of ME: Awareness, Beliefs, ConnectionLessons from starlings, symphonies, and marching bandsRobin’s Durango story: grief, awareness, and connectionThe dance steps of leaderful collaboration: step up, step back, step togetherThe ABCs of Murmuration (available on Amazon)Manifesting Murmuration Workshop — ABCsOfMurmuration.comViktor Frankl, Man’s Search for Meaning (inspiration on choice and awareness)Reflection QuestionHere is your reflection question for this week:What small step can you take today to connect more authentically with yourself and others?Call to Action👉 Visit EngagedByDesign.com to learn more, explore coaching opportunities, and download resources from MACRO Leadership.💬 Comment on the YouTube episode, share your reflection, and subscribe for more leadership insights. Join us at www.engagedbydesign.com to learn more aboutThe Course Design Accelerator Faculty-in-the-Loop AI in Higher Education

In Part Two of their conversation with Dr. Guieswende Rouamba, Michael and Vernon explore how storytelling brings project management to life.Guieswende introduces us to Bob and George — two characters who illustrate resilience, resistance, and the power of leading without a title. Together, they discuss how story helps us make meaning, navigate change, and see ourselves in the leadership journey.A must-listen for instructional designers, educators, and anyone who leads from the middle.Highlights:Why Guieswende wrote the second half of his book as a story.Lessons from Bob and George on leadership and resistance.Why resistance is normal in change management.How to lead without authority.The role of empathy and storytelling in building trust.How project management principles translate into everyday leadership.Resources Mentioned:The Instructional Designer’s Guide to Project Management by Dr. Guieswende RouambaMACRO Leadership by Dr. Michael CottamEngagedByDesign.com – Free MACRO Leadership Workbook Join us at www.engagedbydesign.com to learn more aboutThe Course Design Accelerator Faculty-in-the-Loop AI in Higher Education

In this episode, Dr. Vernon Smith and Dr. Michael Cottam talk with Dr. Guieswende Rouamba, learning designer at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and author of The Instructional Designer’s Guide to Project Management.Guieswende shares how project management helps instructional designers navigate complex collaborations and reduce burnout. He introduces his “Three Ps” — People, Process, and Pedagogy — and explains why relationships are at the heart of every successful project.Whether you lead design teams, teach online, or manage academic innovation, this conversation will remind you that the key to great outcomes starts with great people.Highlights:Guieswende’s journey from Burkina Faso to Illinois.How project management skills elevate instructional design.The “domain dispute” between faculty and designers — and how empathy resolves it.The Three Ps framework: People, Process, and Pedagogy.Positive psychology in project management.How project management helps instructional designers prevent burnout.Resources Mentioned:The Instructional Designer’s Guide to Project Management by Dr. Guieswende RouambaMACRO Leadership by Dr. Michael CottamEngagedByDesign.com – Free leadership tools and downloads Join us at www.engagedbydesign.com to learn more aboutThe Course Design Accelerator Faculty-in-the-Loop AI in Higher Education

Description: Project management isn’t just for boardrooms or classrooms—it shows up in art studios, Renaissance fairs, and even around the gaming table. In part two of our conversation with Bridget Davis, PMP, CSM, DASM, we dive into how project management skills translate beyond formal work.Bridget shares her entrepreneurial journey with Heathen Works, her woodburning art business, where planning, budgeting, and production all rely on project management principles. She also reveals the uncanny parallels between Agile project management and Dungeons & Dragons. From Dungeon Masters acting like Scrum Masters to players learning trust, teamwork, and risk-taking, the lessons are as practical as they are fun.We also reflect on how risks—whether in a game or in higher education leadership—can be reframed as opportunities. From critical dice rolls gone wrong to institutional enrollment declines, Bridget and the hosts share stories of turning setbacks into innovations.What You’ll Learn:How project management supports entrepreneurship and creative businesses.Why Dungeons & Dragons provides a surprising but effective model for team leadership.The power of games in executive training and experiential learning.How to reframe risks and failures into opportunities for growth.Why curiosity is the key to engaging learners and building trust.Mentioned in This Episode:Heathen Works: Heathen Works Ravenwood Renaissance Festival, Winchester, VAHow to Be More D&D: Face Your Dragons, Be More Adventurous, and Live Your Best Geeky Life: https://amzn.to/4gBMM8q Dungeons & Dragons Starter Sets:  https://amzn.to/4pAYcO9 Rio Salado College “Rio Way” experiential training and team gamesReflection Question: How can you apply your professional skills to the most important passions in your life?Subscribe & Connect: 🎙️ Subscribe to the Engaged By Design Podcast for more insights. 🌐 Learn more about MACRO Leadership coaching and workshops at https://engagedbydesign.com . 👍 Like, comment, and share to support our work. Join us at www.engagedbydesign.com to learn more aboutThe Course Design Accelerator Faculty-in-the-Loop AI in Higher Education

Description: Higher education is a world of committees, governance, and constant change. How can project management thrive in this environment? In this episode of the Engaged By Design Podcast, hosts Dr. Vernon Smith and Dr. Michael Cottam sit down with Bridget Davis, PMP, CSM, DASM, to explore how both Agile and predictive project management frameworks can help leaders succeed in academic settings.Bridget brings a unique background—religion, Viking Studies, and a passion for music—that shaped her approach to leading projects. She shares lessons on trust, planning, and accountability, along with candid stories of pitfalls and wins from her career.Whether you’re a leader in higher ed, a project manager in another sector, or simply someone who wants to see teams work better together, you’ll find inspiration and practical advice in this episode.What You’ll Learn:Why higher education requires blending Agile and predictive project management.How to create flexible frameworks tailored to specific projects and teams.The importance of planning, documenting, and clarifying roles early.How Scrum builds trust and consistency through small, iterative cycles.Why CliftonStrengths is a valuable tool for building stronger, more collaborative teams.Mentioned in This Episode:MACRO Leadership book: https://amzn.to/3IAp2VGThe Speed of Trust by Stephen M.R. Covey: https://amzn.to/3KkvUHh CliftonStrengths® assessments & coaching: Engage with us for your personal and professional leadership growthThe American College of Financial Services: The American College of Financial ServicesScrum framework overview: Scrum.orgReflection Question: How might you bring more predictable structure—or more agility—into your current projects?Subscribe & Connect:🌐 Learn more about MACRO Leadership coaching and workshops at https://engagedbydesign.com . 👍 Like, comment, and share to support our work. Join us at www.engagedbydesign.com to learn more aboutThe Course Design Accelerator Faculty-in-the-Loop AI in Higher Education

DescriptionLeadership often happens in the middle—not at the very top. In Part 2 of our conversation with Dr. Michelle Loyet, we explore how to lead effectively without relying on positional authority. Michelle shares her experiences at Webster University, where she learned to build coalitions, invite people into change, and balance responsibilities up, down, and across the institution.Michelle also opens up about her unexpected background in roller derby and the leadership lessons it taught her—resilience, persistence, and teamwork. We also discuss Webster’s long history of serving military students, and how strategies like tuition alignment and transfer credit help meet their needs. This episode is full of practical insights for anyone managing from the middle of an organization and looking to create lasting impact.What You’ll Learn in This Episode: - How to manage up, down, and across with authenticity- Why inviting people into innovation works better than coercion- The power of complementary strengths in leadership partnerships- How roller derby shaped Michelle’s perspective on persistence and teamwork - Practical strategies for supporting military students in higher educationTimestamps:00:00 – Welcome and introductions02:00 – Managing from the middle: strategies for success06:00 – The importance of invitation vs. coercion12:00 – Complementary strengths in leadership partnerships14:00 – Resilience and persistence: lessons from roller derby20:00 – Role models, coaching, and team-building with Yelp Roulette28:00 – Supporting military students through tuition alignment and transfer credit32:00 – Reflections on leadership impact33:00 – Outro & reflection questionReflection Question for Viewers:What can you do this week to build coalitions of support—up, down, and across your organization—to move an important initiative forward?Links & Resources:📖 MACRO Leadership – https://amzn.to/3IAp2VG 📘 Free MACRO Leadership Workbook – https://engagedbydesign.com  Join us at www.engagedbydesign.com to learn more aboutThe Course Design Accelerator Faculty-in-the-Loop AI in Higher Education

Episode 22What if your academic background could become your greatest leadership strength? In Part 1 of this two-part conversation, Dr. Michelle Loyet—known as the “Shenanigans Wrangler” in the book MACRO Leadership—joins Dr. Michael Cottam and Dr. Vernon Smith to share how anthropology became her leadership superpower. As interim Associate Vice President for Enrollment Management at Webster University, Michelle has spent nearly two decades helping the institution innovate, adapt, and serve learners around the globe. In this episode, Michelle reveals how anthropology’s tools—cultural observation, data analysis, and adaptability—translate into practical leadership skills. She also takes us inside the launch of Agile sprints at Webster University, where quick wins, visible progress, and language shifts helped overcome skepticism and accelerate change.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:- How anthropology prepares leaders to understand and adapt to organizational culture - Why data analysis and meaning-making are vital leadership skills - The story of Webster University’s first Agile sprints and their impact on student success - How quick wins and visible accountability built momentum for change - The role of language in shaping culture ('impediments,' 'how might we,' and no 'devil’s advocate')Timestamps:00:00 – Welcome and introductions 02:00 – Michelle’s journey from anthropology to administration 06:00 – Anthropology as a corporate superpower 10:00 – Launching Agile sprints at Webster University 15:00 – The power of quick wins and visible accountability 20:00 – Overcoming naysayers and skeptics 30:00 – Building coalitions across academics and IT 35:00 – Visualizing progress with sprint boards 45:00 – Language shifts that changed the culture 48:00 – Outro & reflection questionReflection Question for Viewers:How might you apply your own disciplinary superpowers—whether anthropology, linguistics, biology, or statistics—to your leadership practice this week?Links & Resources:📖 MACRO Leadership book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3IAp2VG  📘 Free MACRO Leadership Workbook: https://engagedbydesign.com Join us at www.engagedbydesign.com to learn more aboutThe Course Design Accelerator Faculty-in-the-Loop AI in Higher Education

Episode 21Episode TitleCompetency-Based Learning and the Future of Work — with Dr. Calli Morrison (Part 3 of 3)Episode SummaryIn the final part of our three-part series, Dr. Cali Morrison dives into the world of competency-based education (CBE), micro-credentials, and the future of learning and work. She shares how she helped build direct assessment CBE programs at American Public University System, explains the value of micro-credentials and NanoCerts, and discusses how digital badges give learners visibility and ownership of their skills. Calli also reflects on her current work at EdAssist, where she helps healthcare organizations build career pathways that grow talent from within. Along the way, she offers leadership lessons for innovators—especially women—about embracing failure, taking risks, and engaging learners through authentic assessment. This episode highlights how education and workforce development are converging, and how innovation can serve real learners.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeHow Calli became involved in competency-based education (CBE)The difference between direct assessment and credit-hour CBE modelsWhy micro-credentials and NanoCerts give learners valuable milestonesHow digital badges empower learners to own and share their achievementsCalli’s current work with EdAssist building healthcare career pathwaysLeadership lessons on innovation, risk, and supporting women leadersWhy authentic assessment and co-learning engage more learners effectivelyReflection QuestionHow can you build in authentic assessment to make learning more visible and relevant?Resources & LinksLearn more about Engaged By Design: https://engagedbydesign.comExplore coaching services: https://www.engagedbydesign.com/storeFree 10-Lesson MACRO Leadership Course: https://www.engagedbydesign.com/macroleadershipbookGet the book: MACRO Leadership on Amazon: https://amzn.to/476zHRPThe technology we used Shure MV7+ Microphone: https://amzn.to/4obxnPC  Shure MV7i Microphone with Audio Interface: https://amzn.to/3GX0Jkb   Join us at www.engagedbydesign.com to learn more aboutThe Course Design Accelerator Faculty-in-the-Loop AI in Higher Education

Episode 20Episode SummaryIn this second part of our three-part series, Dr. Cali Morrison takes us inside two major projects that shaped the future of higher education: Transparency by Design and the Predictive Analytics Reporting (PAR) Framework. These efforts paved the way for program-level transparency, skills-based hiring, and data-driven student success strategies. Calli shares how Transparency by Design helped adult learners make informed decisions by comparing program-level outcomes, and how the PAR Framework demonstrated the power of shared data to predict student persistence and drive interventions. Along the way, she tells the unforgettable story of her daughter Bryce—the 'PAR baby'—born on the very day a Gates Foundation grant proposal was due. This conversation highlights the importance of transparency, collaboration, and the human side of innovation in education.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeThe origins and goals of Transparency by DesignWhy program-level data is vital for adult learners making college choicesHow accreditors and even the Department of Defense adopted metrics from the initiativeThe creation and impact of the Predictive Analytics Reporting (PAR) FrameworkThe unforgettable story of the 'PAR baby' and the human side of innovationReflection QuestionHow could your team use data not just to measure, but to intervene early and change student outcomes?Resources & LinksLearn more about Engaged By Design: https://engagedbydesign.comGet the book: MACRO Leadership on Amazon: https://amzn.to/476zHRPFree 10-Lesson MACRO Leadership Course: https://www.engagedbydesign.com/macroleadershipbook The technology we used Shure MV7+ Microphone: https://amzn.to/4obxnPC  Shure MV7i Microphone with Audio Interface: https://amzn.to/3GX0Jkb  Join us at www.engagedbydesign.com to learn more aboutThe Course Design Accelerator Faculty-in-the-Loop AI in Higher Education

Episode 19EPISODE SUMMARYIn this episode of the Engaged By Design Podcast, Dr. Vernon Smith and Dr. Michael Cottam kick off a three-part conversation with Dr. Cali Morrison, Senior Director of Workforce Education and Strategy at EdAssist by Bright Horizons. Calli shares how a rural sociology class—and one infamous challenge involving cow urine—helped spark her unexpected entry into higher education. She reflects on the power of engaged learning, the importance of clear learning objectives, and why she walked away from a major when a professor couldn’t explain the purpose of an assignment. Most importantly, Cali reveals her personal “why”: to help adults keep learning throughout their lives without giving up the parts of life that matter most. Inspired by her parents and mentors, she has built a career committed to making education more flexible, accessible, and meaningful.WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODEHow Cali “fell into” higher education through the Montana State University Extension ServiceThe rural sociology professor whose teaching style left a lasting impressionThe infamous “cow urine for an A” story and what it says about engaged learningWhy unclear learning objectives once led Cali to change her career pathCali’s personal “why” and how family experiences shaped her mission in educationREFLECTION QUESTIONWhere in your courses, programs, or trainings do you need to clarify the learning objectives so learners know exactly why it matters?RESOURCES & LINKSLearn more about Engaged By Design: https://engagedbydesign.comFree 10-Lesson MACRO Leadership Course: https://www.engagedbydesign.com/macroleadershipbook Join us at www.engagedbydesign.com to learn more aboutThe Course Design Accelerator Faculty-in-the-Loop AI in Higher Education

Episode 18In part two of our conversation, Dr. Jennifer Brock discusses program innovation, credit for prior learning, and how AI is reshaping course design and student success at scale. In this second episode with Dr. Jennifer Brock, we explore her leadership in designing stackable credentials, building credit for prior learning pathways, and leading groundbreaking grant-funded projects like Rio Compass. She shares insights into scaling student success through technology and human connection, her experience presenting to Bill Gates, and how AI is helping accelerate course development without sacrificing quality. Jennifer’s career illustrates how innovation in education requires both passion and persistence — whether in the classroom, in program design, or in rethinking how technology supports learners.Reflection Question: How can your institution better recognize the learning that students bring with them—whether from work, life experience, or prior education?Affiliate Links:MACRO Leadership, by Michael Cottam: https://amzn.to/476zHRP The technology we usedShure MV7+ Microphone: https://amzn.to/4obxnPC Shure MV7i Microphone with Audio Interface: https://amzn.to/3GX0Jkb  Join us at www.engagedbydesign.com to learn more aboutThe Course Design Accelerator Faculty-in-the-Loop AI in Higher Education

Episode 17Dr. Jennifer Brock shares her journey from theater to sciences, her path into teaching, and the transformative power of dual enrollment in shaping student identity and confidence.In this episode of the Engaged by Design Podcast, Vernon Smith and Michael Cottam welcome Dr. Jennifer Brock, Executive Vice President of Online Education, Academics, and Services at the Academy of Art University. Jennifer reflects on her journey from musical theater to biology, her passion for teaching, and her pioneering role in dual enrollment. She shares how early opportunities shaped her confidence and how dual enrollment empowers students to see themselves as college-ready.We also hear about her transition into higher education leadership and her early innovations in program design.Reflection Question: How has a teacher, mentor, or early opportunity shaped your confidence and career path?Affiliate Links:MACRO Leadership, by Michael Cottam: https://amzn.to/476zHRP The technology we usedShure MV7+ Microphone: https://amzn.to/4obxnPC Shure MV7i Microphone with Audio Interface: https://amzn.to/3GX0Jkb  Join us at www.engagedbydesign.com to learn more aboutThe Course Design Accelerator Faculty-in-the-Loop AI in Higher Education

Episode 16In part two of our conversation with Dr. Shannon McCarty, Vice President of Learning and Instruction at Calbright College, we shift from Calbright’s mission to the challenges and lessons of leading innovation.Shannon shares candidly about her leadership journey, the mentors who shaped her path, and the values she carries into her role. She reflects on how authenticity, feedback, and even humor create stronger teams, and why being open and vulnerable is key for leaders navigating change.Highlights from this episode include:How to stay authentic and resilient while leading disruptive innovation.The cultural values that guide Calbright’s “small but mighty” team.The role of AI in course design, assessment, and tutoring — and why it’s about the right tech at the right time.Rethinking general education around “durable skills” such as communication, problem-solving, and digital literacy.Shannon’s vision for the future includes three-year degree models and integrating AI literacy across programs.Shannon leaves us with a challenge question: to know your purpose and let it guide your innovation and leadership. Affiliate Links: Books referenced in this episode MACRO Leadership, by Michael Cottam: https://amzn.to/476zHRP   The Let Them Theory by Mel Robins: https://amzn.to/42hgidJ The technology we used Shure MV7+ Microphone: https://amzn.to/4obxnPC  Shure MV7i Microphone with Audio Interface: https://amzn.to/3GX0Jkb   Join us at www.engagedbydesign.com to learn more aboutThe Course Design Accelerator Faculty-in-the-Loop AI in Higher Education

Episode 15 In part 1 of this conversation, Vernon Smith and Michael Cottam reconnect with their longtime colleague and friend, Dr. Shannon McCarty, Vice President of Learning and Instruction at Calbright College.Shannon shares her journey from faculty at Rio Salado College to leadership roles at National University and Bay Path University, and now to her work at Calbright — California’s 116th and newest community college. Together, they explore:How Calbright’s startup culture is challenging the status quo in higher education.Calbright's mission to expand equity and access through free, competency-based programs.The role of human-centered design and employer partnerships in creating relevant learning.Real-world success stories of micro-internships with companies like HubSpot that led directly to jobs.How Calbright is rethinking assessment and demonstration of skills to prepare students for the workforce.Shannon reminds us that meaningful innovation isn’t about adding more technology — it’s about designing around student needs, fostering equity, and keeping the focus on outcomes.Reflection Question for Listeners: What lessons can you beg, borrow, or steal from Calbright that might apply to your context and your institution?Next Episode Teaser: In part two of our conversation, we’ll go deeper into Calbright’s team culture, the challenges of building something new, and the role of AI in shaping the future of higher education.  Join us at www.engagedbydesign.com to learn more aboutThe Course Design Accelerator Faculty-in-the-Loop AI in Higher Education

Episode 14In Part 2 of our conversation with Dr. Kathy Hagler and Robin Graham, we delve into the Four Path Journey, the conscious habits of thriving, and the “flock logic” that transforms individuals into leaderful teams.Show Notes:In this follow-up to Part 1, we dive deeper into the leadership lessons inspired by nature’s most graceful display of collective intelligence, murmuration. Dr. Kathy Hagler and Robin Graham, co-authors of The ABCs of Murmuration: Collective Wisdom of Nature, share practical stories and tools for building leaderful cultures in any organization.In this episode, you’ll learn:How the Four Path Journey moves leaders and teams from “me” to “we” to “us.”What it means to embrace an evolutionary mindset and envision murmuration in your workplace.The power of the conscious habits of thriving: Step Up, Step Back, and Step Together.Why “flock logic” favors small, connected groups—and how to apply this principle in your team.How TD Industries built a century-long culture of leaderful leadership.Reflection Questions:Which idea from the Four Path Journey resonates most with your current leadership context?How can you embrace an evolutionary mindset as you lead your team?Where could stepping back create more space for others to lead?Resources & Links:The ABCs of Murmuration book on AmazonLearn more at https://www.abcsofmurmuration.com MACRO Leadership, by Michael Cottam: https://amzn.to/476zHRP The technology we usedShure MV7+ Microphone: https://amzn.to/4obxnPC Shure MV7i Microphone with Audio Interface: https://amzn.to/3GX0Jkb Engaged by Design Podcast: https://www.engagedbydesign.com/podcasts/engaged-by-design  Join us at www.engagedbydesign.com to learn more aboutThe Course Design Accelerator Faculty-in-the-Loop AI in Higher Education

Episode 13In this first of a two-part conversation, we explore the wisdom of nature with Dr. Kathy Hagler and Robin Graham, co-authors of The ABCs of Murmuration. Discover how the synchronized flight of starlings offers profound lessons for leadership, teamwork, and thriving organizations.Show NotesWhat can leaders learn from the mesmerizing dance of starlings? In Part 1 of our conversation with Dr. Kathy Hagler and Robin Graham, co-authors of The ABCs of Murmuration: Collective Wisdom of Nature, we explore how the patterns in nature can guide us toward more harmonious, effective leadership.In this episode, you’ll learn:What “murmuration” is and why it matters for leaders and teams.The ABCs framework—Awareness, Beliefs, and Connect—and how it moves individuals from “me” to “we” to “us.”How Ubuntu—“I am because you are”—shapes leaderful cultures.Stories from the field, including how Kathy brought together disconnected organizations to solve complex workforce challenges.How to spot and foster murmuration in your own teams.Kathy and Robin share practical tools, inspiring stories, and a call to embrace nature’s collective wisdom in our leadership practice.Reflection questions:Where have you seen harmonious “murmuration” in your organization?What happens when that harmony doesn’t emerge?What’s one thing you can do this week to apply murmuration to your leadership?Resources & Links:The ABCs of Murmuration book on AmazonLearn more at Robin's website: https://inneractivebeliefs.com/ MACRO Leadership, by Michael Cottam: https://amzn.to/476zHRP The technology we usedShure MV7+ Microphone: https://amzn.to/4obxnPC Shure MV7i Microphone with Audio Interface: https://amzn.to/3GX0Jkb Engaged by Design Podcast: https://www.engagedbydesign.com/podcasts/engaged-by-design  Join us at www.engagedbydesign.com to learn more aboutThe Course Design Accelerator Faculty-in-the-Loop AI in Higher Education

Episode 12In this episode, Michael and Vernon talk with longtime friend and colleague Jarred Truschke—designer, instructional leader, and the creator of MyPurpose, a journal and AI-powered app that helps people align goals with their identity and values.Jarred shares the personal journey that led to the creation of the MyPurpose framework, which guides users through defining their purpose in eight life areas, clarifying core values, setting identity-based goals, and translating those into meaningful daily actions.The conversation also explores how AI can support personal growth (without replacing your job), and how tools like MyPurpose empower both individuals and leaders to make progress with intention. Whether you're leading a team, mentoring students, or just trying to figure out your next steps, this episode will help you pause, reflect, and prioritize with purpose.Affiliate Links: Books referenced in this episode MyPurpose, by Jarred Truschke on Amazon at: https://amzn.to/4oAfF8S MACRO Leadership, by Michael Cottam: https://amzn.to/476zHRP   The technology we used Shure MV7+ Microphone: https://amzn.to/4obxnPC  Shure MV7i Microphone with Audio Interface: https://amzn.to/3GX0Jkb  Join us at www.engagedbydesign.com to learn more aboutThe Course Design Accelerator Faculty-in-the-Loop AI in Higher Education

Episode 11Storytelling is a leadership superpower—but too often, we don’t use it well. In this episode, Michael and Vernon dive into why stories matter, especially in leadership roles where influence matters more than control.They share three of the essential story types every leader should have in their toolbox—value, founder, and purpose stories—inspired by Kindra Hall’s book Stories That Stick. You’ll hear: How Kindra Hall’s Normal–Explosion–New Normal model compares to the Hero’s Journey and the MACRO PPP (Problem–Path–Payoff) structure.Real leadership stories told live on the podcast—with feedback from AI voices Sarah and Imogene!Tips on how to craft your own leadership stories that connect with your team and inspire meaningful change. Whether you're a mid-level manager or a senior leader, this episode will challenge you to reflect, connect, and tell your own story better.Storytelling Challenge: This week, record a short version of one of your own leadership stories—value, founder, or purpose. Then share it with a colleague, your team, or even a voice memo to yourself. Not sure how to begin? Visit engagedbydesign.com to download our free storytelling prompts or reach out for a coaching session.Affiliate Links:Books referenced in this episodeMACRO Leadership, by Michael Cottam: https://amzn.to/476zHRP Stories That Stick, by Kindra Hall: https://amzn.to/4lZ9KskBuilding a StoryBrand 2.0, by Donald Miller: https://amzn.to/4ocHGmGStoryworthy, by Matthew Dicks: https://amzn.to/4fbCxqN The technology we usedShure MV7+ Microphone: https://amzn.to/4obxnPC Shure MV7i Microphone with Audio Interface: https://amzn.to/3GX0Jkb   Join us at www.engagedbydesign.com to learn more aboutThe Course Design Accelerator Faculty-in-the-Loop AI in Higher Education

Episode 10In this second episode of our two-part series, Michael and Vernon explore what happens after unbundling: how faculty and other academic professionals are adapting, defending, and rebundling their roles in an AI-powered world. This episode outlines four irreducibly human responsibilities, three common defense strategies of professions under threat, and four emerging faculty archetypes for the AI era. Whether you're a professor, designer, advisor, or leader, this conversation will challenge your assumptions and offer a hopeful path forward. Stick around for a set of reflection questions you can bring back to your team.These are the sources mentioned inside the episode’s dialogue as well as some helpful links.  Smith, V. C. (2008). The Unbundling and Rebundling of the Faculty Role in E-Learning Community College Courses. University of Arizona dissertation. http://hdl.handle.net/10150/194795 Associated Press (2023). “Automated Earnings Stories Multiply.” https://www.ap.org/the-definitive-source/speaker-spotlights/applying-automation-in-the-newsroom/ American Federation of Teachers (2024). “Resolution on Artificial Intelligence.” https://www.aft.org/resolution/artificial-intelligence American Federation of Teachers (2024). “AFT Launches National Academy for AI in Instruction.” https://www.aft.org/press-release/aft-launch-national-academy-ai-instruction-microsoft-openai-anthropic-and-united American Association of University Professors (2023). “Artificial Intelligence, Academic Freedom, and the Evolving Debate over Forgery and Truth in the Twenty-First Century.” Journal of Academic Freedom, 15. https://www.aaup.org/JAF15/artificial-intelligence-academic-freedom-and-evolving-debate-over-forgery-and-truth-twenty Freidson, E. (2001). Professionalism: The Third Logic. University of Chicago Press. https://books.google.com/books/about/Professionalism_the_Third_Logic.html?id=Tgn3sThG8QEC Abbott, A. (1988). The System of Professions. University of Chicago Press. https://press.uchicago.edu/ucp/books/book/chicago/S/bo5965590.html World Economic Forum. (2023). The Future of Jobs Report 2023.  https://www.weforum.org/publications/the-future-of-jobs-report-2023  Affiliate Links: MACRO Leadership, by Michael Cottam: https://amzn.to/476zHRP  Join us at www.engagedbydesign.com to learn more aboutThe Course Design Accelerator Faculty-in-the-Loop AI in Higher Education

Episode 9Welcome to a new season of the Engaged by Design podcast! In this episode, Dr. Michael Cottam interviews his co-host Dr. Vernon Smith—this time in the role of featured guest—to explore how artificial intelligence, economic pressures, and platformization are driving the unbundling of professional roles in higher education.Drawing from Vernon's dissertation research and recent policy shifts, this episode dives deep into what’s happening behind the scenes of your course shell, syllabus, or advising software.In This Episode, You’ll Learn:What “unbundling” means and how it applies to the faculty roleExamples from other industries (like restaurants and healthcare) that mirror higher ed’s transformationThe difference between Craft, Collegial, and Virtual Assembly Line course modelsHow AI and automation are accelerating labor and capital substitutionsWhat roles and tasks are most likely to remain “bundled”—and which will be offloaded or outsourcedReflective Questions:Is your role being unbundled as we speak?Where do you see unbundling happening in your institution or department?What parts of your professional bundle feel irreplaceable—and what could be supported or restructured?Mentioned in the Episode:Vernon's dissertation on course production models in community college e-learningThe rise of OPMs (Online Program Managers) and revenue-share outsourcingWilliam Baumol’s theory of cost disease and its relevance to educationReal-world analogies from restaurants, healthcare, and gig-based platformsNext Up:In Episode 2, we’ll explore how to rebundle intentionally—focusing on human-centered leadership, MACRO strategies, and what should never be outsourced in the student experience.Share your thoughts or questions with us at EngagedByDesign.com and join the conversation on LinkedIn or your favorite podcast platform.Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share this episode with colleagues navigating the future of learning and leadership!Affiliate Links: MACRO Leadership, by Michael Cottam: https://amzn.to/476zHRP   The technology we used Shure MV7+ Microphone: https://amzn.to/4obxnPC  Shure MV7i Microphone with Audio Interface: https://amzn.to/3GX0Jkb  Join us at www.engagedbydesign.com to learn more aboutThe Course Design Accelerator Faculty-in-the-Loop AI in Higher Education

Episode 8 MACRO Leadership: Leading Agile Change and Innovation in Higher EducationChapter 8 - How might you?In this final episode of the MACRO Leadership podcast series, Michael and Vernon take listeners on a practical journey through applying all five elements of the MACRO framework—Match, Assign, Coach, Reflect, and Ovation—to a high-impact institutional initiative: redesigning the First-Year Experience (FYE).What you’ll learn in this episode:Why the FYE is a strategic project that demands cross-functional leadershipHow to match the right team members based on passion and perspectiveHow to assign clear roles and responsibilities for momentumHow coaching—not just supervision—helps people grow through complexityWhy reflection is essential to course-correct in real timeHow meaningful ovation builds trust, recognition, and a culture of careListener Challenge:Choose one initiative you’re leading or supporting right now. Ask yourself: Where am I strong in MACRO? Where might I be skipping a step? Then use the worksheet to lead with intention.Affiliate Links: Books referenced in this episode MACRO Leadership, by Michael Cottam: https://amzn.to/476zHRP   The technology we used Shure MV7+ Microphone: https://amzn.to/4obxnPC  Shure MV7i Microphone with Audio Interface: https://amzn.to/3GX0Jkb  Join us at www.engagedbydesign.com to learn more aboutThe Course Design Accelerator Faculty-in-the-Loop AI in Higher Education