The Lift [Audio Edition]

[Plus "First 5" audio-exclusive behind-the-scenes overview!] Learn how consistent rhythms, clear communication, and inclusive decisions create stability—even when uncertainty defines higher education.

[New-and-Improved! Includes 5-minute behind-the-scenes segment.] A one-year reflection on higher ed leadership and innovation. What mattered most, what’s next, and how community helps us carry the weight of change.

[Now with behind the scenes 5-minute commentary at the top followed by the Audio Edition.] A reflection on wellbeing in higher education—exploring purpose, wholeness, and how personal commitment shapes our work, relationships, and impact.

In higher ed, going it alone is costly. This episode explores how building relationships across differences strengthens our work and our institutions. https://dub.sh/thelift

As higher education faces uncertainty in 2026, Kelvin Thompson reflects on balancing what we know with what we must learn—through curiosity, relationships, and intentional forward steps.

Community. Gratitude. Anticipation. Three themes that feel especially alive during Thanksgiving week—and they shaped this new episode in ways I didn’t expect. Our work in higher ed calls us to look toward the horizon with clarity and hope.

Explore the role of empathy, emotion, and authentic connection in academic innovation —and how appropriate vulnerability builds stronger connections.

This month’s issue of "The Lift" [Audio Edition] explores 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘩𝘰𝘸 of finding common ground through human connection toward collective impact of academic innovation.