Unfiltered by EmpowerED: Educators’ Voices Uncut

The rise of generative AI is not just a technological shift—it’s a fundamental transformation of how higher education operates, teaches, and evaluates learning. In this episode of Unfiltered by EmpowerED, we sit down with Panagiota (Penny) Tzanni, a PhD candidate and an Educational Developer, to explore how AI is reshaping employability, academic roles, and the future of English for Academic Purposes (EAP). From navigating global career challenges and professional identity shifts to confronting the realities of AI disruption, Penny shares a candid, thought-provoking perspective on what higher education professionals must do to stay relevant.   Podcast Chapters 00:44 – Introduction & Penny’s Global Career Journey 06:52 – Challenges in International Education & Professional Identity 10:29 – First Encounter with Generative AI & Its Impact 14:49 – Is EAP Becoming Obsolete? 19:38 – AI in Higher Education: Taboo, Policy & Reality 23:59 – Inside Penny’s PhD: AI Training for Educators 26:20 – Fear, Resistance & Digital Literacy Gaps 34:45 – Upskilling, Work Culture & Institutional Responsibility 38:57 – AI, Employability & Changing Job Roles 52:46 – The Future of Assessment & Final Reflections   Resources Mentioned Penny's Newsletter   Penny’s Contact Details Email: [email protected]   For more updates, follow EmpowerED:  Website: empoweredwebinars.com X (Twitter): @MpowerEDWebinar LinkedIn: EmpowerED Webinars Email: [email protected]  

Academic advising is often seen as a support function—but what if it’s actually central to student success, belonging, and institutional impact? In this episode of Unfiltered by EmpowerED, we speak with Wayne Ramwell, Senior Tutor and Academic Advisor at the University of Manchester, about the evolving role of advising in higher education. Wayne shares his journey into advising, insights into the professional advising model, and how institutions can better support the “whole student”—academically, personally, and professionally. We also explore challenges such as student engagement, trust-building, wellbeing, and the growing need for compassionate, student-centred approaches.   Podcast Chapters 01:03 – Introduction & Wayne’s Journey into Academic Advising 05:27 – What Academic Advising Really Means 11:43 – Asking the Right Questions vs Having the Right Answers 16:38 – Building Trust & Supporting Student Wellbeing 20:58 – Bridging Academic Success and Personal Development 26:00 – Misconceptions About Advising & Student Engagement 31:15 – The Professional Advising Model Explained 39:17 – Institutional Strategy, Resources & Impact of Advising 44:05 – Where Universities Should Start with Improving Advising 48:21 – The Future of Academic Advising   Resources Mentioned UK Advising and Tutoring Association (UKAT)   Wayne’s Contact Details Email: empoweredwebinars.com X (Twitter): @MpowerEDWebinar LinkedIn: EmpowerED Webinars Email: [email protected]

The college journey is often sold as rankings, prestige, and eye-watering tuition fees. But what if it could be different? In this episode of Unfiltered by EmpowerED, we talk with Shellee Howard, Founder & CEO of College Ready, about how to help students pursue higher education without losing themselves or their financial future. Shellee shares: How to send your child to college without going into debt Why passion projects matter more than polished résumés The truth behind Ivy League myths and what it really takes to stand out How to think clearly about scholarships, aid and the real cost of college How educators can guide students towards colleges that fit both their dreams and their reality We also hear about Shellee’s experience in Uganda and how that shaped her non-profit, Empower Education, and her belief in education as a global force for change. Perfect for teachers, counsellors, school leaders and parents who want honest, unfiltered insight into the modern admissions landscape.   Podcast Chapters 00:00 – Introduction 04:30 – Why Families Feel Overwhelmed About College 11:00 – What Colleges Really Look For in Students 18:30 – Passion, Purpose & Student Identity 25:45 – Global Perspective on Education Access 32:45 – Handling Rejection & Finding the Right Fit 37:50 – Are Schools Preparing Students for the Future? 42:10 – Scholarships, Financial Strategy & Hidden Costs 46:10 – AI in College Admissions 50:05 – Final Reflections & Key Takeaways   Resources Mentioned College Ready Planning Website Empower Education (International Nonprofit) Podcast: Parents, is Your Teen College Ready?  Book: How to Send Your Child to College Without Losing Your Mind or Your Money Book: The College Admissions Plan Simplified     Shellee’s Contact Details: College Ready’s Instagram Shellee’s Linkedin   For more updates, follow EmpowerED:  Website: empoweredwebinars.com X (Twitter): @MpowerEDWebinar LinkedIn: EmpowerED Webinars Email: [email protected]

How personal loss shapes student life, identity, and support systems on campus. In this raw and powerful episode of Unfiltered by EmpowerED, we’re joined by an extraordinary guest who shares her personal journey of navigating grief as a student—and how those early experiences of loss, silence, and resilience sparked the creation of The Student Grief Network. We discuss what it means to grieve at university, the unique challenges faced by students, the gaps in institutional support, and how grief can become a quiet but powerful catalyst for growth, empathy, and change. Whether you’re a student, educator, or simply someone who’s experienced loss, this is an episode that will stay with you.   Podcast Chapters: 01:53 – Introduction & Anna’s Journey into Grief Work 02:29 – Losing Her Brother and the Hidden Impact of Childhood Grief 08:25 – Founding the Student Grief Network at University 10:50 – Coping with the Loss of Her Father and Finding Purpose 17:00 – Why Grief Is Still Invisible in Higher Education 31:08 – Creating a Framework for Compassionate Universities 43:00 – Supporting Staff Well-Being & Building a Culture of Care 53:50 – Lessons, Hope & Anna’s Final Message   Resources Mentioned:  SGN main website My creative page: Anna May   Anna's Contact Details: Linkedin Email: [email protected]   For more updates, follow EmpowerED:  Website: empoweredwebinars.com X (Twitter): @MpowerEDWebinar LinkedIn: EmpowerED Webinars Email: [email protected]

This episode takes you inside the design and philosophy of the MA in Artificial Intelligence and Technology-Enhanced Learning (AITEL) — a bold new programme helping teachers and technologists co-create the future of learning. We discuss how students develop their own “classrooms of the future,” use AI tools critically, and engage with themes like social justice and digital literacy. You’ll hear practical examples, reflections on pedagogical change, and how higher education can remain deeply human — even in a world shaped by automation.   Podcast Chapters: 02:15 – Zoe’s Journey into Education & Technology 06:52 – Why the MA in AI & Technology Enhanced Learning Was Created 09:13 – Closing the Gap Between Research & Classroom Practice 13:45 – Letting Students Use AI to Write Their Essays 19:00 – Designing Curriculum for the Classroom of the Future 25:56 – Peer Collaboration Between Educators & Technologists 33:22 – Ethics, AI Literacy & Data Protection 46:25 – Zoe’s Vision for Education in the Age of AI   Resources Mentioned:  Program Details Postgraduate Taught Programmes York's Department of Education Zoe's Personal Web page Zoe's Lab Page   Zoe's Contact Details: Linkedin   For more updates, follow EmpowerED:  Website: empoweredwebinars.com X (Twitter): @MpowerEDWebinar LinkedIn: EmpowerED Webinars Email: [email protected]

Can automation support teaching without sacrificing quality or care? In this insightful conversation, we explore how Microsoft Power Automate and other tools are being used to tackle academic workload, improve feedback systems, and support earlier student interventions. We also touch on the creative use of technology in content design and how educators can navigate the digital shift while keeping pedagogy at the centre. A must-listen for anyone seeking scalable, humane, and effective solutions for assessment and feedback.   Podcast Chapters: 02:13 – Meet Rebekah & Her Teaching Journey 03:22 – Tech Curiosity & Problem Solving 10:26 – The Pain Point that Sparked Automation 15:01 – Using Power Automate to Reclaim Teaching Time 18:25 – Student Reactions to Automated Feedback 21:19 – Saving Time Without Compromising Quality 27:17 – Scaling the Approach Across Departments 32:12 – Reducing Mental Load for Educators 53:37 – The Future of Automation in Teaching & Assessment   Resources Mentioned:  Marking Approach Toolkit Scribe Genially Blooket Adobe Express Power Automate Toolkit (coming soon in description)   Rebekah's Contact Details: Email: [email protected]   For more updates, follow EmpowerED:  Website: empoweredwebinars.com X (Twitter): @MpowerEDWebinar LinkedIn: EmpowerED Webinars Email: [email protected]

In this episode of Unfiltered by EmpowerED, we explore how playfulness can be a powerful force in cultivating psychological safety and deeper collaboration in the workplace. Our guest, Mark Childs, brings a unique perspective from the world of academic development and learning design, reflecting on how playful approaches can help people feel more engaged, included, and creative at work. Tune in to hear real stories, practical strategies, and why play should be taken seriously.   Podcast Chapters: 01:36 – Meet Mark & His Playful Journey 05:45 – The Physics Class That Changed Everything 10:05 – What Makes a Space Truly Playful? 14:50 – Response to Skeptical Voice 17:43 – Psychological Safety & Fear of Failure 28:11 – Playfulness in Teaching 34:17 – Playfulness vs. Professionalism 39:44 – Designing Meaningful Play 54:58 – The Future of Play at Work   Resources Mentioned: Pedagodzilla Podcast Pedagodzilla The Book Playful Learning Association   Mark's Contact Details: Email: [email protected] Bluesky   For more updates, follow EmpowerED:  Website: empoweredwebinars.com X (Twitter): @MpowerEDWebinar LinkedIn: EmpowerED Webinars Email: [email protected]

What does it really mean to work in digital education? In this episode of Unfiltered by EmpowerED, we sit down with Adele and Pip from Birkbeck, University of London, to hear their stories of moving into and thriving in the evolving world of edtech. From career pivots and pedagogy to curiosity, humour, and HyFlex learning, we explore how digital education roles are shaped by people—not just platforms. Adele brings two decades of rich experience in learning technology, while Pip offers insights from her fresh transition into the field. Together, they reflect on the skills that matter, the myths that persist, and the joy of building connections across disciplines. Whether you're just starting out or deep into your digital learning career, this is a warm and candid conversation about what it takes to thrive—and why staying human in a tech-driven world might be our greatest asset. Podcast Chapters: 01:50 – Meet Adele and Pip: Career Journeys into Digital Education 07:17 – What’s in a Job Title? The Evolving Roles in EdTech 13:31 – Designing HyFlex Learning 20:32 – The Digital Skills We Need—Now and in the Future 22:35 – Study, Qualifications, and the Pedagogy Behind Tech 35:42 – Building Confidence and Connection with Reluctant Users 40:53 – Collaborating with Academics and Students on Real Projects 46:01 – Supporting Early Careers: Mentors, Courses, and Networks 55:14 – Busting Myths: No, We’re Not IT Support 59:53 – Final Advice: Mindsets That Matter in Digital Education   Contact Details: Adele's Linkedin   For more updates, follow EmpowerED:  Website: empoweredwebinars.com X (Twitter): @MpowerEDWebinar LinkedIn: EmpowerED Webinars Email: [email protected]

Can kindness be taught? Can it be a form of activism? In this episode of Unfiltered by EmpowerED, we explore how kindness is being used not just as a value, but as a radical educational tool to help students thrive in today’s fast-changing world. Vic shares how Kaplan Pathways' Kindness Curriculum is supporting international students in liminal spaces—between home and study, college and university, education and employment. We explore the role of kindness in shaping resilient, confident and connected learners—and why these human skills matter more than ever in an AI-driven age. A must-listen for anyone passionate about compassionate pedagogy, emotional intelligence, and the future of education.   Podcast Chapters: 01:51 – Meet Victoria: Commitment to Inclusive Education 07:05 – What Is Kindness in Education? 20:07 – Teaching Kindness: Can It Be Done? 26:50 – Student Response and Cultural Considerations 29:20 – Kindness, Leadership, and "Soft" Skills 30:50 – Staying Human in an AI World   Book Mentioned: The Economy of Kindness   Vic's Contact Details: Email: [email protected] Linkedin Website   Also, a big shout out to: Kath Koshel Kindness Factory   For more updates, follow EmpowerED:  Website: empoweredwebinars.com X (Twitter): @MpowerEDWebinar LinkedIn: EmpowerED Webinars Email: [email protected]

In this episode of Unfiltered by EmpowerED, Caroline talks with Kim and Patrick from Activate Learning about how they’re using AI to transform education. From creating custom AI tools like tutors and feedback assistants to ensuring ethical and secure practices, they share the steps they’ve taken to enhance both teaching and learning. Kim and Patrick discuss striking the right balance between AI automation and human interaction, empowering students with digital skills, and fostering a growth mindset. They also highlight the importance of using AI to create equitable opportunities for learners, while keeping educators at the heart of the process. Whether you’re an educator exploring AI’s potential or a student curious about its role in learning, this episode offers practical advice, inspiring examples, and a look at what’s next for AI in education. Podcast Chapters: 01:58 – Meet Kim and Patrick: Using Technology to Enhance Learning 07:53 – Ethical Challenges for Building AI Tools 13:36 – How AI Tutors Support Students Anytime, Anywhere 20:44 – How to Use AI as A Tutor? 27:33 – Feedback from Staff: What’s Working? 38:56 – Advice for Future Use of AI in Education Make sure you don't miss Kim and Patrick's presentation in our webinar! https://youtu.be/N7bJmFu-P8o   Kim and Patrick on Social Media: Kim's Linkedin Patrick's Linkedin   For more updates, follow EmpowerED:  Website: empoweredwebinars.com X (Twitter): @MpowerEDWebinar LinkedIn: EmpowerED Webinars Email: [email protected]

In this episode of Unfiltered by EmpowerED, we speak with two dynamic alumni from the University of Dundee, Lily Meller and Hedda Scharffenberger. Together, they share their transformative experiences participating in a Human Rights Advocacy Internship module that combined academic rigour with real-world activism. Lily and Hedda discuss the power of student activism as a pedagogical tool, offering insights into how the module not only deepened their understanding of human rights but also helped them discover their strengths and passions. They recount navigating challenges like group dynamics, measuring impact, and balancing academic and advocacy demands. From running impactful social media campaigns to organising events that spark meaningful dialogues, their journey demonstrates the profound value of experiential learning. This episode is a must-listen for educators interested in integrating activism into the curriculum and for students seeking to channel their passions into actionable change. Gain inspiration, practical tips, and a renewed belief in the potential of collective action to make a difference. Podcast Chapters 00:08 - Meet Lily and Hedda: Passion for Advocacy and Activism 03:17 - Insights into the Human Rights Advocacy Module 09:03 - Reflective Assessments and Real-World Impact 15:28 - Navigating Group Dynamics and Collaboration Challenges 25:04 - The Role of Digital Activism in Modern Advocacy 40:59 - Lessons Learned: Strengths, Skills, and Future Applications 50:07 - The Future of Student Activism and Advice for Aspiring Advocates   You might also like the below episodes: Make sure you don't miss Lily and Edzia's presentation in our webinar and Edzia's podcast episode about student activism pedagogy.   Hedda and Lily on Social Media: Hedda's Linkedin Lily's Linkedin   For more updates, follow EmpowerED:  Website: empoweredwebinars.com X (Twitter): @MpowerEDWebinar LinkedIn: EmpowerED Webinars Email: [email protected]

In this episode of Unfiltered by EmpowerED, we sit down with Daniel Pigou from Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University in China. Daniel, a lecturer in English for Academic Purposes shares his innovative work with H5P interactive videos. Designed to engage students and improve learning outcomes, these videos are part of a blended learning model that allows students to interact with content through gamified, quiz-like features. Daniel discusses his journey, starting with his experiences teaching in a hybrid environment, and now focusing on creating self-study resources to build autonomy in the classroom. A highlight of the episode is Daniel’s insights on enhancing digital literacy among students and supporting fellow educators in adopting new tech tools like H5P to meet curriculum goals. He also covers the value of regular feedback, making tech tools accessible, and the challenges of balancing digital content with classroom interaction. This episode is packed with practical advice for educators on how to enrich their blended learning offerings. Tune in to hear about Daniel’s strategies for making learning both effective and enjoyable! Podcast Chapters 0:47 - Daniel’s Background in Education and Research 4:33 - Integrating H5P Videos in Blended Learning 11:46 - Using Interactivity to Boost Student Engagement 12:39 - Navigating Digital Literacy Challenges 14:31 - Strategies for Supporting Colleagues with New Tech 17:00 - Building Consistency in Video Content Quality 18:50 - Key Insights from Student Feedback 21:55 - Measuring and Enhancing Engagement with H5P 31:51 - Advice to Educators on Implementing Interactive Videos 33:54 - Emerging EdTech and Future Directions 35:22 - Balancing Digital and Classroom Interactions   Follow Daniel on Linkedin for more information. Links Daniel shared in the Podcast: Learning H5P   For more updates, follow EmpowerED:  Website: empoweredwebinars.com X (Twitter): @MpowerEDWebinar LinkedIn: EmpowerED Webinars Email: [email protected]  

Welcome to a new episode of Unfiltered by EmpowerED! In today’s episode, we had a chat with Edzia Carvalho, a passionate lecturer in politics and international relations at the University of Dundee. Edzia shares her groundbreaking work in integrating student activism with human rights education, offering a unique approach that empowers students to engage with human rights issues in real, impactful ways. This episode delves into Edzia's innovative approach, focusing on experiential learning where students lead campaigns advocating for political prisoners. Edzia discusses the value of reflective analysis, the critical role of hands-on activism, and the skills students gain—from campaign planning to handling vicarious trauma. A highlight of this conversation is Edzia’s candid reflections on the challenges and triumphs of fostering activist pedagogy in an academic setting. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about empowering students and building meaningful educational experiences. Podcast Chapters 0:40 - Edzia’s Background in Politics and Human Rights 2:00 - Student Activism in the Curriculum 3:27 - Implementing Student Activism as a Pedagogical Tool 6:20 - Challenges of Online Activism during COVID 8:32 - Supporting Students in Campaign Development 12:12 - Benefits of Activist Pedagogy on Student Development 14:54 - Bridging Theory and Practice in Human Rights Education 16:57 - Student-Led Campaigns for Political Prisoners 19:05 - Handling Emotional Challenges in Activist Work 28:28 - Roles in Campaigns 37:06 - Future of Activism and AI Ethics in Education 42:21 - Advice to Educators on Integrating Activism Listen in and discover more about empowering students through activism and creating impactful learning journeys! Follow Edzia on LinkedIn for more information. For more updates, follow EmpowerED:  Website: empoweredwebinars.com X (Twitter): @MpowerEDWebinar LinkedIn: EmpowerED Webinars Email: [email protected]

Welcome to "About EmpowerED, Your Community | Unfiltered by EmpowerED", the very first episode of our podcast series. In this episode, we take you behind the scenes of the EmpowerED community, introducing the passionate minds driving this initiative. You'll hear from Anshul, May, and Caroline, as we share our journeys, inspirations, and the vision that brought EmpowerED to life. Join us for an engaging and insightful conversation that showcases the collaborative spirit and innovative drive of our team. Podcast Chapter: 00:08 Introduction 03:43 The Origin of EmpowerED 05:00 The Power of Community 06:26 May's Favourite Sessions and Takeaways 15:52 Caroline's Experience as a Presenter 20:09 Anshul 's Favourite Sessions and Takeaways 23:04 Caroline's Favourite Sessions and Takeaways 29:14 Looking Forward 32:28 Closing Remarks The Team on Social Media: Anshul Lau: https://x.com/LauAnshul Caroline Bearpark: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caroline-bearpark-97a100113/ May Tsai: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chih-yu-may-tsai-196792148/ Follow us on Social Media! Website: https://empoweredwebinars.com/ X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/MpowerEDWebinar Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/empoweredwebinars Email: [email protected]

Welcome to a new episode of Unfiltered by EmpowerED! In today's episode, we're thrilled to welcome Geeta Hitch from the University of Sunderland in London. Geeta serves as a Lecturer in Public Health and brings a wealth of experience in academic pharmacy and educational development. Geeta shares her journey through various universities, her passion for teaching, and her innovative approach to setting clear expectations for students. She delves into the importance of diagnostic tests, scaffolding learning experiences, and the impact of digital literacy on student success. A major highlight of this episode is the discussion on inclusive teaching practices and how to bridge the gap in students' digital skills. Whether you're an educator seeking strategies to enhance student engagement or someone interested in the evolving landscape of education, this episode is packed with valuable insights. Tune in to hear about Geeta's journey, her collaborative efforts, and the methods she's developed to ensure effective learning and teaching. Podcast Chapters 0:45 - Introduction 1:33 - Geeta's Background and Role at the University of Sunderland in London 4:19 - Inspiration Behind Focusing on Student Learning and Setting Expectations 06:05 - Implementing Diagnostic Tests for Pharmacy Students 10:55 - Adapting Teaching Methods for Future Technological Changes 12:50 - Bringing Up Students' Digital Skills 19:12 - Ensuring Accessibility and Inclusivity in Learning Materials 23:18 - Advice to the Practitioners 24:47 - Closing Remarks Make sure you don't miss Geeta's presentation in our webinar! https://youtu.be/QUH7nSiUUKA?si=-qbUFNVzBSHu9PCs Geeta Hitch on Social Media: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/geeta-hitch-97ab41a1/ Follow us on Social Media! Website: https://empoweredwebinars.com/ X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/MpowerEDWebinar Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/empoweredwebinars Email: [email protected]

In today's episode, Caroline will share insights into her role, the innovative projects she's leading and her experiences with implementing digital tools and instructional design principles. A major highlight of this episode is the discussion on the "Star to Legend" programme, which aims to empower educators by enhancing their digital skills and transforming their teaching practices.

Join us as John shares his insights on the evolution of digital learning environments, the unique approach of Hibernia College in delivering blended learning programmes, and the role of technology in shaping the future of education. We'll discuss how Hibernia College uses online tools and feedback systems to enhance student learning experiences and the challenges they face in supporting users with digital platforms like Moodle.

Join us as we discuss with experts from the University of Westminster - Ioannis Glinavos - the critical skills that graduates need to develop to stand out in an AI-driven job market. We'll uncover how AI is influencing job availability across fields, the evolution of job search mechanisms with AI tools, and the ethical implications of this digital transformation.

Teaching a subject area to those who are not specialists can be a challenge. In this episode, we explore the art and science of making your subject accessible to all. From activity-based learning to the integration of technology enhanced learning approaches, we uncover the strategies that empower learning and teaching beyond traditional boundaries.