Coaching in Higher Education

In this episode of Coaching in Higher Education, host Dr. Tim Jansa welcomes productivity coach and organizational psychologist Juli Shulem for a rich, practice-focused conversation on coaching college students, faculty, and staff with ADHD and executive functioning challenges. Drawing on decades of experience with undergraduates through PhD/postdoc clients, Juli unpacks how ADHD shows up in academic life—missed deadlines, chronic disorganization, decision fatigue, overwhelm—and offers concrete ways coaches can respond ethically and effectively while staying within coaching boundaries. She shares practical system-building strategies (from homework planning and calendar use to lifestyle structure and relationship-building with faculty), clarifies when and how to raise the possibility of ADHD or referral for evaluation in a non-pathologizing way, and explores how coaches can help reduce stigma and foster a kinder, more neuro-inclusive campus culture. This episode is especially valuable for professional coaches who want to deepen their skill set with neurodivergent clients in higher education and expand their impact beyond “pure coaching” into truly holistic support.

In this episode of Coaching in Higher Education, host Dr. Tim Jansa speaks with Dr. AJ Lauer, a nationally recognized expert on imposter syndrome, about how imposter feelings uniquely show up for faculty, staff, and emerging leaders in colleges and universities.Drawing on research (including Dr. Valerie Young’s five imposter types), AJ explores how perfectionism, overachievement, “expert” identity, and systemic inequities intersect to fuel self-doubt, burnout, and defensive leadership behaviors in academic settings. Together, Tim and AJ examine how coaches can distinguish between personal and institutional contributors to imposter experiences, work with nervous-system activation and somatic cues in sessions, and use competence-focused conversations (rather than achievement lists) to help clients reframe expectations and build healthier relationships with their “imposter monsters.”Coaches will come away with practical approaches, a richer conceptual framework, and concrete ideas for supporting higher ed clients to move from hiding their perceived inadequacies to owning their expertise and impact.

In this episode of Coaching in Higher Education, host Dr. Tim Jansa speaks with Dr. Whitney Newcomb (Virginia Commonwealth University) and Dr. Sarah Schley (Oregon State University) about the distinct challenges and rich opportunities of coaching academic department chairs. Drawing on their dual roles as chairs and coaches, they unpack the complex “middle leader” position—navigating up, down, and across among faculty, staff, professional advisors, and senior administration—while managing relentless change, invisible supervisory work, and chronic trust gaps. The conversation highlights how coaching can help chairs develop greater self- and systems-awareness, lead through influence rather than authority, build trust across role boundaries, and shift from individual academic achievement to team- and culture-building. Coaches will come away with nuanced insight into the political, relational, and emotional landscape department chairs inhabit—and practical ideas for how coaching, assessments, and cohort-based development can meaningfully support these pivotal yet often under-resourced leaders.

In this episode of Coaching in Higher Education, host Dr. Tim Jansa interviews Dr. Kim Burns—coach, consultant, former long-time community college dean, and contributor to Transformative Coaching for Faculty and Staff in Higher Education—about the distinctive realities of coaching middle managers in colleges and universities. Together, they unpack why deans, directors, and coordinators function as the “glue” of their institutions, carrying heavy emotional labor as they navigate the tensions of managing up and down, and how coaching can help them shift from overwhelmed people pleasers to confident boundary setters. Drawing on her extensive experience in community colleges, Dr. Burns explores what external coaches need to know about institutional culture, the often-misaligned espoused versus lived values, and the practical implications of democratizing coaching beyond the executive suite. She also shares a values-based coaching framework and concrete strategies coaches can use to support clients wrestling with burnout, role ambiguity, and value misalignment. This conversation offers rich, immediately applicable insights for professional coaches who work in—or want to better understand—the higher education context.

In this episode of Coaching in Higher Education, Dr. Andrea Marcinkus and Dr. Aaron Wijeratne of Boundless Learning join host Dr. Tim Jansa to explore how data-informed strategy and thoughtful coaching can drive successful online program transformation in colleges and universities. Drawing on their own journeys from faculty and academic leadership into the private sector, they unpack how to use market, learner, and performance data without losing sight of institutional mission or the human beings behind the numbers. They discuss practical ways to work with skeptical faculty, address identity and confidence concerns, and design coaching engagements that genuinely build capacity rather than impose one-size-fits-all solutions. The conversation highlights the power of student success coaching, the unique challenges of online learning environments, and the critical role professional coaches can play in helping higher ed leaders, faculty, and staff navigate AI, workload pressures, and large-scale change—making this a must-listen for coaches working in or with higher education.

In this episode, Dr. Tim Jansa talks with higher education consultant and coach Rick Rattray about the growing role of public-private partnerships (PPPs) in higher ed, from operational arrangements like food services and residence halls to academically embedded collaborations such as online program management and international pathway programs. They unpack common tensions around intellectual property, academic control, culture clashes, opaque decision-making, and misaligned timelines, and explore how coaching and change leadership can help surface mistrust, create psychological safety, engage key stakeholders early, and align both sides around a compelling “why.”Drawing on real-world examples of both successful and failed partnerships, Rick offers practical advice—especially for coaches working from the university side—on using coaching and consulting skills together to navigate expectations, address red flags, and co-create sustainable, mutually beneficial PPPs.

In the first episode of Season 2 of the "Coaching in Higher Education" podcast, host Dr. Tim Jansa discusses the new book Transformative Coaching for Faculty and Staff in Higher Education with editors Dr. Karen Gonzalez Rice and Dr. Susan Hrach. The book, which includes contributions from various experts, aims to provide a comprehensive guide to coaching in higher education, addressing both faculty and staff.The editors emphasize the importance of transformative coaching, the need for cultural competence, and the significance of coaching in addressing productivity challenges and personal well-being. They also highlight the book's structure, which includes foundational coaching principles, specific coaching scenarios, and different coaching modalities, aiming to create a learning experience for coaches.

Are you a coach interested in working with colleges and universities, but have gained most of your experience in industry? Or maybe you're an experienced higher ed coach looking for new insights to enhance your practice? Either way, you're in the right place!This presentation on coaching in higher education, delivered by Dr. Tim Jansa, a certified leadership and organizational development coach, aims to provide insights and practical advice for coaches interested in working with colleges and universities. The presentation covers the unique challenges and complexities of higher education institutions, the importance of coaching in this context, and the potential impact of effective coaching on these organizations.Dr. Jansa highlights the unique organizational structures and challenges faced by colleges and universities, such as deeply embedded silos, hierarchical structures, and the lack of a unified vision. He discusses the importance of understanding these complexities and the need for coaches to navigate them effectively.The presentation then delves into the specific challenges of coaching in higher education, including the "faculty leadership trap," the misconception of higher education institutions as machines, and the lack of meaningful leadership development programs. The presenter emphasizes the importance of coaching as a non-directive approach to bring about lasting positive change in these institutions.Dr. Jansa also addresses the changing priorities of employees in higher education, particularly in the post-pandemic era, and the need for institutions to adapt to these new expectations. He highlights the potential of coaching to address employee turnover and attrition by developing pathways for advancement and leveraging the knowledge and expertise of staff and faculty.The presentation concludes with key takeaways and a call to action for coaches to help higher education institutions become more agile, appreciate the knowledge and potential within their organizations, and dispel the image of coaching as a punitive intervention.

This episode explores how coaches can support faculty as they step into leadership roles in higher education, from department chair to dean. Dr. Tim Jansa and Dr. Dorine Lawrence‑Hughes discuss mindset shifts, identity, staff dynamics, and the transition from contributor to manager and leader.If you coach or lead in colleges and universities, this conversation offers practical insights you can use right away.In the Season 1 finale of Coaching in Higher Education, Tim and Dorine dive into:Why faculty‑to‑leader transitions are so common yet often under‑supportedUnderstanding leadership as both a skill and a disciplineMoving from individual contributor to manager to visionary leaderNavigating identity, allegiance, and “going over to the dark side” of administrationManaging staff dynamics and building respectful relationshipsBalancing research, teaching, and administrative responsibilitiesBuilding a supportive bench of peers, mentors, and coachesDesigning a healthier coaching and leadership‑development ecosystem in higher edLearn more about this episode, our guest, and coaching for higher‑education leaders at: https://leadershipimagined.com/podcast/#lawrencehughesLeadership Imagined: https://leadershipimagined.com

In this episode, Dr. Tim Jansa and Stéfane Cahill Farella show how to design and run an on‑campus leadership development and coaching program in higher education, using Boston College’s Ignatian Leadership Development Program (ILDP) as a case study. The conversation covers program design, alignment with institutional mission, and the practical realities of implementation in a university setting.You’ll learn how to:✅Connect leadership development to institutional identity and Jesuit values such as cura personalis (care of the person)✅Structure multi‑phase leadership programs and foundational documents for clarity, consistency, and stakeholder buy‑in✅Balance high‑touch coaching relationships with shared tools such as 360s and individual development plans✅Select and motivate committed participants so the program delivers real impact✅Involve supervisors and senior leaders to strengthen accountability and long‑term support✅Treat leadership development as an institution‑wide intervention, not a one‑off workshop✅Learn more about leadership coaching for higher‑education leaders and this episode’s resources:Companion site: https://leadershipimagined.com/podcast/#cahillfarella

In this episode of Coaching in Higher Education, Dr. Tim Jansa and Dr. Mo Sattar explore how organizational alignment and misalignment shape the effectiveness of colleges and universities. They unpack the connection between strategy, culture, and communication, and show how misaligned goals, unclear roles, and hidden passive resistance slow institutions down.You’ll learn how to:✅ Recognize indicators of misalignment in key higher‑ed functions such as admissions, academics, advancement, and student retention✅ Use DiSC assessment profiles, alignment surveys, and trust questions to surface hidden resistance and get leaders on the same page✅ Apply frameworks like the Competing Values Framework, ADKAR change management, and Six Thinking Hats to move from ideas to execution✅ Facilitate cross‑unit conversations that build clarity on goals, roles, communication, and measures of progress✅ Support leaders as “competent outsiders” who understand the realities of higher education, faculty autonomy, and institutional constraintsWhether you coach higher‑education leaders or work inside a university, this conversation offers practical tools to turn loosely connected working groups into truly aligned leadership teams.Companion Site: https://leadershipimagined.com/coachingpodcast/#sattar

Dr. Tim Jansa and Sarah Spencer discuss the impact of national policy changes on international higher education leaders. Sarah highlights the resilience of global education leaders, noting past challenges like 9/11 and the pandemic. Coaching is emphasized as a crucial tool for navigating these uncertainties, fostering leadership, and addressing intercultural dynamics. They stress the importance of understanding sector-specific nuances and leveraging power skills like communication and adaptability to succeed in the evolving global education landscape.Companion Site: https://leadershipimagined.com/podcast/#spencerKeywords: international education, global education, leadership development, policy changes, resilience, intercultural communication, revenue goals, professional development

Dr. Tim Jansa and Dr. Rubina Malik discuss the challenges and opportunities in career pathways in higher education. Dr. Malik highlights the lack of defined career advancement paths, especially for staff, and the need for coaching to help individuals navigate these challenges. She emphasizes the importance of purpose, skills, and transferable skills in career growth. Dr. Malik also notes the impact of the "Great Resignation" in higher education and the need for succession planning. Additionally, she stresses the importance of cross-cultural dynamics in coaching and the need for institutions to invest in professional development and early talent identification to retain and grow their talent.Companion Site: https://leadershipimagined.com/podcast/#malikKeywords: career pathways, faculty development, staff development, leadership, talent retention, cross-cultural dynamics, professional development, organizational change

In this conversation, Dr. Tim Jansa and Dr. Kate McCaffrey explore the complexities of student services in higher education, discussing the challenges faced by leaders in this field, the importance of coaching, and the need for agility in response to changing student needs. They emphasize the significance of building relationships, breaking down silos, and fostering a mission-driven culture within institutions. The discussion also highlights the role of technology, the necessity of effective onboarding, and the importance of developing talent pipelines to ensure long-term success in student services.Companion Site: https://leadershipimagined.com/podcast/#mccaffreyKeywords: student services, leadership development, student needs, mental health, institutional priorities, resource constraints, agility, decision making, change management, technology integration, organizational debt, professional well-being

In this episode, Dr. Tim Jansa and Tanya Vogel explore the intersection of coaching and athletics in higher education. They discuss the unique challenges faced by athletic leaders, the importance of collaboration between athletics and academics, and the ripple effect of effective coaching on student development. Tanya shares insights from her experience as an athletic director and executive coach, emphasizing the need for emotional intelligence and holistic approaches in leadership. The conversation highlights the significant impact that athletic programs can have on institutional identity and student growth.Companion Site: https://leadershipimagined.com/podcast/#vogelKeywords: athletics, leadership, executive coaching, student development, emotional intelligence, collaboration, athletic programs, ripple impact

In this conversation, Dr. Tim Jansa and Dr. Rebecca Pope-Ruark explore the critical issue of burnout in higher education, particularly in the wake of COVID-19. They discuss the factors contributing to burnout, including institutional betrayal and the misalignment of values, and the importance of compassionate conversations in addressing these challenges. The conversation also delves into the differences between coaching and therapy, personal experiences with burnout, and the systemic nature of the issue. They emphasize the need for a supportive institutional culture to prevent burnout and the unique challenges faced by faculty and staff in academia.Companion Site: https://leadershipimagined.com/podcast/#pope-ruarkKeywords: burnout, trauma, institutional betrayal, mental health, workplace stress, well-being, institutional support, professional identity, work-life balance, resilience, boundary-setting

In this conversation, Dr. Tim Jansa and Dr. Jennifer Brown explore the complexities of leadership in higher education, emphasizing the vital role of trust in driving effective change. They discuss the unique challenges of building trust across diverse stakeholders, the importance of relational authority, and strategies for overcoming resistance to change. The dialogue highlights the need for authenticity, empathy, and resilience in leadership, providing actionable insights for coaches working with higher education leaders.Companion Site: https://leadershipimagined.com/podcast/#brownKeywords: trust, leadership, change management, organizational development, organizational complexity, resilience, stakeholder engagement, communication, empathy, agility, loneliness, authenticity, psychological safety, alignment

Dr. Tim Jansa and Laurie Koehler discuss the challenges and opportunities in Enrollment Management and Student Services, emphasizing the importance of coaching. Laurie highlights the impact of federal policy changes and financial aid shifts on staff retention and morale. She notes that while many leaders seek coaching, access remains limited. Coaching is seen as a developmental tool rather than a punitive intervention. Laurie also discusses the benefits of group coaching for leaders, the integration of coaching into onboarding processes, and the identification and development of high-potential staff. She advocates for a coaching mindset among leaders to foster a supportive and collaborative environment.Companion Site: https://leadershipimagined.com/podcast/#koehlerKeywords: enrollment management, student services, leadership, retention, professional development, team building, organizational culture, staff retention

Dr. Tim Jansa and Dr. Heath Jolliff discuss the unique challenges of coaching physicians in academic medical settings. Key topics include the cultural barriers to coaching, such as a strong tradition of self-reliance, limited leadership training, and hierarchical structures.Dr. Jolliff explains how coaching can help medical professionals navigate complex roles, manage burnout, and develop leadership skills. The discussion highlights the importance of interdependence, self-compassion, and addressing ego-related challenges. Dr. Jolliff shares his value proposition of coaching for medical centers, emphasizing its potential to improve retention, performance, and well-being. The conversation provides insights into the specific needs of medical professionals, the barriers to coaching in academic medicine, and strategies for effective leadership development in this unique professional environment.Companion Site: https://leadershipimagined.com/podcast/#jolliffKeywords: medical centers, leadership development, burnout, self-reliance, interdependence, mentoring, academic medicine, physician coaching

In this episode, Dr. Tim Jansa and Dr. Sarah Westfall discuss the unique dynamics of coaching in higher education, particularly within liberal arts colleges. They explore the relationship-driven culture of small colleges, the challenges coaches face in navigating these relationships, and the importance of assessments in coaching.Dr. Westfall also shares insights on transitioning to executive roles, career support, and the cyclical nature of job searches in higher education. The conversation emphasizes the need for coaches to be informed and respectful of the distinct environment of small colleges.Companion Site: https://leadershipimagined.com/podcast/#westfallKeywords: liberal arts colleges, small colleges, executive coaching, relationship dynamics, career support, assessments, leadership development, transition coaching

In this conversation, Dr. Joel Pérez and Dr. Tim Jansa explore the intersection of leadership, coaching, and equity in higher education. They discuss the importance of creating a sense of belonging, the role of cultural humility, and the challenges of navigating privilege and resistance in organizational settings. The episode underscores the importance of self-awareness, curiosity, and a commitment to ongoing improvement in leadership practices, particularly in the context of diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.Keywords: leadership, cultural humility, belonging, equity, diversity, inclusion, self-awareness, privilege, mindsetCompanion Site: https://leadershipimagined.com/podcast/#perez

Dr. Tim Jansa and James Walton discuss the business side of coaching in higher education. Walton, president of Collaborative Brain Trust, highlights the importance of fit and localization in coaching programs, emphasizing the need for coaches with higher ed experience. He identifies common pain points in higher ed, such as accountability and trust, and discusses the challenges of previous failed coaching programs.Walton also explains the differences between two-year and four-year institutions, noting cost, precedent, and cultural differences. He advises coaches to persist, network, and leverage RFPs and renewal opportunities to break into the higher ed market.Keywords: leadership development, coaching programs, decision makers, two-year institutions, four-year institutions, coaching fit, assessments, professional developmentCompanion Site: https://leadershipimagined.com/podcast/#walton

Dr. Tim Jansa and Dr. Tammy Gocial discuss the VUCA (Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, Ambiguity) environment in higher education, emphasizing its impact on leadership. Dr. Gocial highlights the challenges of navigating digital learning, enrollment cliffs, and financial pressures, noting the need for strategic, agile responses. She suggests coaching strategies to help leaders manage cognitive, emotional, and behavioral aspects, including leveraging transferable skills and fostering psychological safety. The conversation stresses the importance of cross-functional collaboration and adaptability, urging institutions to break down silos and prepare for future challenges, potentially through mergers and strategic assessments.Keywords: VUCA, leadership, adaptability, resilience, identity, complexity, ambiguity, uncertainty, volatility, uncertainty, complexity, ambiguityCompanion Site: https://leadershipimagined.com/podcast/#gocial

Dr. Tim Jansa and Dr. Kavita Pandit examine the distinct challenges encountered by academic leaders transitioning from faculty roles to administrative positions, the distinction between mentoring and coaching, the importance of integrating emotional intelligence with analytical thinking, and the evolving landscape of leadership development in universities.Dr. Pandit shares insights from her experience as both an internal and external coach, highlighting the complexities of academic leadership identity. The episode offers valuable insights into coaching and leadership development in academic settings, highlighting the need for more comprehensive coaching and support for academic leaders, particularly department chairs and deans, who face increasingly complex challenges in the modern higher education landscape.Keywords: academic leaders, emotional intelligence, mentoring, leadership development, identity, internal coaching, decision making, support systemsCompanion Site: https://leadershipimagined.com/podcast/#pandit