The Search Bar

People talk about work-life balance, but what does it even mean? And is it possible to truly find alignment between the two?   Guest: Neil MacKinnon, president at Central Michigan University It's the 50th episode of The Search Bar and host Adam Sparkes welcomes Central Michigan University President Neil Mackinnon to the show. The two sit down to discuss the balancing act between your personal and professional life. President MacKinnon shares some insight into how he finds balance, the importance of mentorship and other thoughts on how you can better find work-life harmony. 

With the ubiquity of smartphones, who's a photographer when everyone's a photographer? And what separates photography from art? Guest: Kris Sanford, professor of photography at Central Michigan University  Summary In this episode of The Search Bar, Adam Sparkes welcomes Kris Sanford to the show. The two discuss what makes a photographer truly great, the blurred line between art and photography, the pros and cons of artificial intelligence in the photography industry – and more. 

Ahead of National Speech-Language-Hearing Month in May, join us for a conversation focusing on the intersection of hearing loss, advocacy and innovation. Guest: Stacey Lim, associate professor of audiology at Central Michigan University  Summary In this episode of The Search Bar, Adam Sparkes welcomes Stacey Lim to the show. Stacey shares her personal journey that led to a career in audiology, her love of fashion as it relates to hearing accessibility, stigma surrounding hearing loss and advice for young people considering a career in audiology. 

National Beer Day isn’t just a made-up holiday by the beer industry. There’s real, historical significance with the legalization of beer having economic ripple effects across the country during The Great Depression.  Guest: Jason Taylor, professor of economics at Central Michigan University and author of The Brew Deal: How Beer Helped Battle the Great Depression  Summary In this episode of The Search Bar, host Adam Sparkes welcomes Jason Taylor back to the show how beer helped save a struggling U.S. economy during The Great Depression, and how New Beer’s Eve and National Beer Day came to be. 

Sometimes it feels like we’re scrolling through life more than we’re living it.  Guest: Kirsten Weber, professor of communication at Central Michigan University  Summary In this episode of The Search Bar, host Adam Sparkes and Kirsten Weber, professor of communication at Central Michigan University, discuss how documenting our lives for social media affects our ability to fully experience the moment. They also provide ways we can find a balance between capturing memories and staying present in the moment. 

Participating in a marching band leads to personal and professional growth. What skills can you gain? And how can those skills set you up for success after graduation? Guest: Jim Batcheller, associate director of bands at Central Michigan University Summary  Host Adam Sparkes welcomes Jim Batcheller, associate director of bands at Central Michigan University, to the show. The two discuss the value of playing in a marching band and how it sets you up for success in life – even if your career plans have nothing to do with music. 

Are people born curious? Or is curiosity something that can be nurtured over time? Guest: Guest: Jen Weible, professor of teacher and special education at Central Michigan University Summary  Host Adam Sparkes welcomes Jen Weible back to the show to discuss curiosity. What can you do in your everyday experiences to help nurture curiosity? And how can you encourage someone to be more curious? The conversation focuses on what makes people curious, how we can encourage curiosity, and how being curious as a child can help guide our career paths. 

Artificial intelligence is here to stay. So, how can students and teachers embrace it effectively and ethically?  Guest: Jen Weible, professor of teacher and special education at Central Michigan University  Summary Host Adam Sparkes welcomes Jen Weible to the show to discuss the impact, benefits and potential drawbacks of utilizing artificial intelligence in schools. The two touch on some of the most exciting ways both students and teachers are currently using AI in education. And with advancements in technology happening so rapidly, how can schools ensure AI tools are used safely and ethically? 

From the products you buy to the food you eat; supply chains and logistics are an integral part of our everyday lives.      Guest: Fred Lawrence, faculty member in logistics management at Central Michigan University    Summary Host Adam Sparkes sits down with Fred Lawrence, faculty member in logistics management, to get a better understanding of how supply chains impact our daily lives. Some of the questions they answer include: What affects the costs for consumers within a supply chain? How do tariffs and free trade agreements factor into things? How does data improve logistics within supply chains? How are AI and other emerging technologies set to revolutionize supply chains in the future? 

What’s the appeal of conspiracy theories? And how did they make their way into pop culture?  Guest: Joe Packer, professor of communication at Central Michigan University    Summary Conspiracy theories have been around as long as human civilization. What’s their appeal? And why have conspiracies in pop culture found such a large following? Host Adam Sparkes and guest Joe Packer sit down to discuss everything from Plato’s teachings to Batman to Taylor Swift. Is there a risk of blurring the lines between fictional and real-life conspiracies? 

It turns out, talking to strangers is actually a good thing. Guest: Kirsten Weber, professor of communication at Central Michigan University Summary In this episode of The Search Bar, host Adam Sparkes sits down with Kirsten Weber, professor of communication at Central Michigan University, to discuss how going outside your comfort zone and talking with people you don't know can have big benefits. Worried about the potential awkwardness of talking with strangers? They dive into that, too.

Is imposter syndrome something that can be fully "overcome," or is it more about managing it over time? Guest: Allison Arnekrans, professor of counseling at Central Michigan University Summary In this episode of The Search Bar, host Adam Sparkes sits down with Allison Arnekrans to to talk about imposter syndrome. The two discuss what factors contribute to imposter syndrome and how we can overcome it.

Equity and access in higher education is about more than just making sure people have equal opportunity to apply and attend. Guest: Anne Hornak, professor of higher education at Central Michigan University Summary In this episode of The Search Bar, host Adam Sparkes sits down with Anne Hornak to discuss equity and access in higher education. The two dive into some of the biggest barriers to higher education, how universities can set students up for success, the role of social class on college campuses, and more. 00:00 Introduction 02:38: How do you define equity in the context of higher education? 05:30: What are some key barriers in access to higher education today? 09:44: What can universities do to make sure all students are set up for success? 17:56: How does the cost of college impact access to higher education? 26:52: What motivates students to continue with school while struggling? 32:28: What is the role of “class” on a college campus? 37:01: What trends do you see on the horizon for equity and access in higher education?

Using movies and popular media in the classroom is nothing new. But being purposeful and effective in using it as a teaching tool can have many challenges along the way. Guest: Scott Roberts, professor of education at Central Michigan University Summary  In this episode of The Search Bar, Scott Roberts, professor of higher education at Central Michigan University sits down with Adam Sparkes to discuss purposeful use of movies as a teaching tool in the classroom. The two talk about how social studies has evolved, some of the biggest challenges to using films in the classroom, and some of the biggest benefits for students in learning through film.

It may very well be one of the most important skills you develop in your life: Ethical decision making. How can you approach decisions more ethically and how can leaders foster that mindset within their organizations? Guest: Anne Hornak, professor of higher education at Central Michigan University Summary In this episode of The Search Bar, Anne Hornak, professor of higher education at Central Michigan University sits down with Adam Sparkes to discuss the ins and outs of making decisions with an ethical mindset. The two discuss what influences our choices, ethical dilemmas we face every day, and some of the challenges we face in making ethical choices.

How do you start competing in esports? And how easy is it to turn a love for gaming into a college scholarship and even a career? Guest: Luke Theis, senior assistant director of  @CMICHEsports  at Central Michigan University. Summary In this episode of The Search Bar, Adam Sparkes sits down with Luke Theis, senior assistant director of esports at Central Michigan University, to discuss all things esports. The two talk about some of the most popular competitive video games, how to get started in esports to begin with, how esports is growing at the collegiate level, what career paths esports players are following after they graduate - and what the future holds for the world of competitive gaming.

Young voters will have louder voices in the 2024 presidential election than ever before. What are the long-term implications of engaging and empowering young voters for the future of democracy and governance both nationally and closer to home? Guest: Sam Dattilo, assistant director for the Mary Ellen Brandell Volunteer Center at Central Michigan University. Summary In this episode, Sam Dattilo, Assistant Director for the Mary Ellen Brandel Volunteer Center at Central Michigan University, discusses the importance of young voters participating in local politics. She emphasizes that local politics have a direct impact on people's daily lives, such as driving on roads, dropping kids off at school, and accessing public parks. Sam acknowledges that young people often feel disconnected from the political process, as they believe that older politicians do not understand their concerns and issues. However, she encourages young voters to engage in local politics and find candidates or organizations that align with their values. Sam also highlights the significance of local elections, as they can have a direct impact on communities and determine the direction of policies and decision-making. She advises young voters to stay informed by reading multiple sources, subscribing to reputable news outlets, and engaging with local thought leaders and nonprofits. Sam also provides information on voter registration and resources such as michigan.gov/vote and vote411.org. Overall, she emphasizes the importance of young voters participating in local politics to have a voice in their communities and shape the future.

The NCAA’s Name, Image and Likeness rule is changing the landscape of college sports. How is it impacting recruitment? What are some of the benefits and drawbacks? And what’s its impact long-term? Guest: Tangela Cheatham, deputy athletic director for administration at Central Michigan University. Summary The NCAA's name, image, and likeness (NIL) rule is changing the landscape of college sports, with significant impacts on recruitment, benefits, and challenges. Tangela Cheatham, Deputy Athletic Director at Central Michigan University, discusses how NIL is transforming the student-athlete experience, the role of collectives, and the unique challenges facing mid-major programs. The NIL landscape is rapidly evolving, with ongoing legal battles and a need to balance entrepreneurial opportunities for student-athletes with preserving the core student-athlete experience and amateurism in college sports.

Studying abroad is extremely expensive and will push back your graduation date – or maybe not. We’re tackling myths, tips and life-changing benefits of studying abroad. Guest: Marko Schubert, assistant director of the Office of Study Abroad at Central Michigan University Summary In this episode of The Search Bar, Marko Schubert, assistant director of the Office of Study Abroad at Central Michigan University, debunks study abroad myths. Marko shares his personal journey of coming to CMU as a graduate exchange student and deciding to stay. He highlights the importance of cross-cultural skills and the value of studying abroad in broadening students' worldview. He emphasizes the personal growth that students experience when they step out of their comfort zones and navigate unfamiliar situations. Marko discusses the different study abroad options available, including direct enroll programs, faculty-led programs, internships, and virtual exchanges. He also addresses concerns about cost, health and safety, and the potential impact on graduation timelines. Marko advises students to start planning early, seek financial aid and scholarships, and have conversations with their families about potential challenges and support systems. He encourages students to make an appointment with the study abroad office to discuss their options and create a plan that aligns with their academic and personal goals.

Volunteer rates are down across the country as the need for volunteers continues to go up. How does donating your time help benefit organizations in need as well as the volunteers themselves?    Guest: Sam Dattilo, assistant director for the Mary Ellen Brandell Volunteer Center at Central Michigan University.    Summary  In this episode of The Search Bar, Adam Sparkes interviews Sam Dattilo, the assistant director for the Mary Ellen Brandell Volunteer Center at Central Michigan University, about the importance and impact of volunteering. They discuss the decline in volunteer rates across the country, which has been exacerbated by the pandemic, and the need for volunteers in various organizations and communities. They highlight the benefits of volunteering, including the sense of belonging, improved mental health, and the development of valuable skills. They also discuss the impact of volunteering on career prospects, as employers increasingly value corporate social responsibility. Sam provides tips on how to get involved in volunteering and shares her personal experience with volunteering and the positive impact it has had on her life. 

Women’s sports are reaching new heights in popularity. So, what’s behind that surge – and how can women’s sports continue to grow and evolve?    Guest: Tangela Cheatham, deputy athletic director for administration at Central Michigan University.    Summary  In this episode of The Search Bar, Tangela Cheatham, deputy athletic director for administration at Central Michigan University, discusses the rise in popularity of women's sports. She highlights the impact of athletes like Caitlin Clark in women's basketball and the increased exposure and access provided by social media. Cheatham emphasizes the importance of representation and the value it holds for young girls and women. She also discusses the need for continued support and advocacy to ensure the growth and success of women's sports. The conversation touches on pay parity, the role of intentionality in organizations, and the future of women's sports. 

Is cheap wine worse than expensive wine? And are there any health benefits to drinking wine?  Guest: Jeff Fisher, Director of the Allen Foundation Culinary Nutrition Center, at Central Michigan University.  00:00 Introduction   01:06 What makes a good wine?   01:52 What’s the difference between cheap wine and expensive wine?   05:06 How can I begin to enjoy and appreciate wine?   08:24 What makes wine sweet or dry and how does that affect the taste?   10:22 What other factors affect the flavor profile of a wine?   12:27 How long should you age a bottle of wine?   14:06 What states have the best wine-growing regions? How does Michigan compare?   14:47 Why does wine vary in taste so much?   18:40 How do I find a wine that I like?   19:48 Which wines pair well with different foods?   22:31 How can I enjoy wine in moderation? And are there any health benefits?   25:36 Parting advice and conclusion 

Eating a healthy diet on a regular basis can be a challenge for many reasons. Among them: costs, having a lack of access to healthy foods, and the convenience of processed foods. What are some tips for eating healthy on a budget? And what are some misconceptions when it comes to diet and nutrition?  Guest: Jeff Fisher, Director of the Allen Foundation Culinary Nutrition Center, at Central Michigan University.  00:00 Introduction 01:04  What is a “food desert”? 02:42  Why are processed foods cheaper than fresh foods? 04:36  How can I prepare healthy and cost-effective meals at home? 07:16  How can I stretch my groceries into more meals? 08:36  What is the benefit to seasonal eating and preserving food? 12:59  How can I easily preserve produce at home? 14:23  How have modern conveniences changed our relationship to food? 17:39  How can I grocery shop in a budget-friendly way? 22:39  How can I begin to eat a plant-based diet? 24:28  What are common misconceptions about diet and nutrition? 28:01  How do I know what health advice to trust? 31:05  How can I improve my portion control and create a well-balanced plate? 32:08  What value can food have beyond simple nutrients? 33:30  Conclusion 

What are some of the most important skills for an entrepreneur to have, and what do you need to know when launching or acquiring your own business?  Guest: Julie Messing, Director of the Isabella Bank Institute for Entrepreneurship at Central Michigan University.  00:00 Introduction   01:09 What is entrepreneurship?   02:33 What skills does an entrepreneur need?   04:54 How can you build people skills and confidence?   07:26 How do you get a new business off the ground 12:17 How does acquisition entrepreneurship work 19:31 What is the relationship between entrepreneurship and the ‘gig economy’?   21:30 What is intrapreneurship?   23:42 How can you support entrepreneurs in your community?   25:30 Conclusion 

How is light pollution affecting the environment and our own well-being? And how can we mitigate light pollution and preserve night sky visibility?  Guest: Aaron LaCluyzé, faculty member in the Department of Physics at Central Michigan University.    00:00 Introduction   02:04 What is light pollution?   06:55 Is there a benefit to reducing light pollution?   10:50 How does poor light design contribute to light pollution?   13:26 Why does light pollution occur?   15:29 How can we address light pollution?   16:47 What other factors contribute to limited night sky visibility?    18:06 How does light pollution impact wildlife?   21:40 How does light pollution impact humans?   23:59 What kind of light bulb creates the most light pollution? Why?   28:04 How can we mitigate light pollution and preserve night sky visibility?   34:15 How is light pollution measured?   35:49 What are the cultural impacts of light pollution?   37:03 What concerns arise with the proliferation of satellites?   44:09 Recap and conclusion 

Game-based learning has been around for thousands of years. What makes games so effective as a learning tool? And how can you implement games into everyday learning?   Guest: ⁠Jonathan Truitt⁠, co-director of the ⁠Center for Learning through Games and Simulations⁠ at ⁠Central Michigan University⁠.  00:00  Introduction 01:18  What is game-based learning and gamification 03:44  How do we gamify our daily lives? 05:07  How did game-based learning start to catch on? 08:58  How is game-based learning different than educational video games? 10:40  How do you decide if game-based learning is a good fit for a lesson? 14:16  Why does game-based learning help to increase understanding? 16:14  What is the benefit of face-to-face, live game play? 21:37  What game models work best in the classroom? 23:41  How does an academic board game get published? 25:03  What games have been published through Central Michigan University Press? 28:47  How can educators introduce game-based learning to their classrooms? 33:51  What are the career opportunities in game-based learning? 37:28  Conclusion

Why has autism become more prevalent? And what’s the difference between autism awareness and autism acceptance?   Guest: Allison Peart, Director of the Autism Assessment Evaluation Center at Central Michigan University.  00:00 Introduction  01:11 What is autism?  03:13 What is the appropriate language to use when talking about an ASD diagnosis?  06:57 What is the current therapy model for ASD? Why is this model used?  11:39 Why is self-advocacy important and how has it improved access to accommodations?  15:02 Is there any overlap between ASD and ADHD?  17:13 Why are autism diagnoses becoming more prevalent?  19:11 What is the role of diagnosis for accessing services and resources?  21:17 What kind of support is available within the public school system?  21:53 What is the evaluation and recommendation process like for ASD?  26:00 What is autism acceptance and why is it important? 

Why is the 2024 total solar eclipse such a big deal? And, where and how can you see it safely?    Guest: Aaron LaCluyzé, faculty member in the Department of Physics at Central Michigan University.  00:00 Introduction 01:06 What is an eclipse? 06:42 What will the view of the solar eclipse be from Michigan? 07:20 What are the dangers of looking directly at a solar eclipse? 10:17 How long will the eclipse last? 12:16 What’s the cultural history of eclipses? 14:33 How do modern-day scientists predict eclipses? 16:53 How was the experience of viewing the 2017 eclipse? 18:30 How do you prepare to view a solar eclipse? 23:42 Why is a total eclipse worth trying to see? 33:19 If I’ve seen an eclipse before, should I still see this one too? 35:11 What equipment do I need to view or photograph the eclipse? 44:05 What scientific phenomena can be observed during a solar eclipse? 46:32 What can scientists learn from viewing a solar eclipse? What can the average person learn? 50:26 Are there any philosophical implications of a solar eclipse? 52:40 Conclusion

It’s one of the most important skills employers are looking for in the business world today: process mining. What is it and how can businesses use it to leverage data to become more efficient?  Guest: Vishal Shah, associate professor of Business Information Systems at Central Michigan University    00:00 Introduction   01:07 What is process mining?   05:54 What are some examples of process mining applications?   10:52 How can I get into the field of process mining?   13:40 What is ERP and SAP, and how do these systems benefit businesses?   15:52 How does process mining build on data mining?   19:38 What makes quality data and why is that important for process mining?   22:48 How can process mining work in tandem with human judgement and decision making? 29:42 What career paths can benefit from studying process mining?   35:57 Why is the demand for process mining skills increasing?   38:48 How can process mining skills help students succeed in the job market?   43:24 How can I apply process mining to my personal routine?   49:35 Are there limits to process mining?   51:27 Are there any ethical or legal concerns with process mining?   54:38 Review and wrap-up 

What challenges do first-generation students face? And, what advice and resources are available to help make the transition from high school to college a successful one for first-generation students? Guest:  James Span Jr., executive director of Student Inclusion and Diversity at Central Michigan University. 00:00 Introduction 01:23 How is “first-generation student” defined? 02:08 Why is it important to identify first-generation students? 04:06 Why can it be challenging to be a first-generation student? 09:01 What are some of the challenges faced by first-generation students? 12:00 What is the importance of empathy and support for first-generation students? 18:44 What resources are available for first-generation students? 21:13 What scholarship and financial aid opportunities are available for first-generation students? 22:20 What programs does Central Michigan University have to support first-generation students? 27:03 Why is it important to address the stigma around being a first-generation student? 30:04 How should first-generation students prepare to enter college?

As more companies demand that employees return to the office, is the work from home era ending?  Guest:  Misty Bennett, associate dean for the College of Business Administration at Central Michigan University  00:00 Introduction  01:38 What factors inform a company’s decision to work remotely or in person post-pandemic?  04:09 What is the impact of remote work on efficiency and productivity?  06:50 How does remote work impact employee recruitment and retention?  09:28 What are the challenges and benefits of remote work?  12:36 How can companies adapt to the changing work landscape?  14:35 What should employees consider before accepting a remote position?  18:22 What is the importance of work-life balance and setting boundaries in a remote environment?  24:53 What is the value of personal time and flexibility in meeting employees’ needs?  27: 43 What does the future work landscape look like? 

How is climate change impacting the Great Lakes region?  Guest: Zach Johnson, climate scientist and assistant meteorology professor at Central Michigan University.  00:00 Introduction 01:43 What is the definition of climate and climate change? 03:34 How does climate change impact the Great Lakes region? 11:34 How is climate change impacting Michigan communities? 13:17 How can we mitigate the effects of climate change? 16:33 What is the current focus for addressing climate change? 18:43 What is the significance of water quality and the Great Lakes’ impact on climate? 23:46 What is the potential impact of rising water temperatures on Great Lakes ecosystems? 24:46 Why is an interdisciplinary approach important to addressing climate change?

Networking events can be intimidating. How can you stand out while also getting the most out of networking events?  Guest: Deborah Gray, professor of marketing, College of Business Administration at Central Michigan University 00:00 Introduction 00:41 How do I prepare for a networking event? 02:04 What are good conversation topics for networking? 04:48 How do you navigate a networking event? 08:44 Who should I talk to at a networking event? 10:12 How do I avoid feeling overwhelmed while networking? 11:00 What networking mistakes should I avoid? 11:30 What should I do after the event? 12:51 What is the value of networking beyond career development?

How can mentorship and sponsorship set you on the path for professional success? Guest: Misty Bennett, associate dean for the College of Business Administration at Central Michigan University 00:00 Introduction 00:42 Why is mentorship in the workplace important? 02:55 What are the benefits of a mentorship relationship? 04:31 What should you consider when choosing a mentor? 08:05 How do you build a relationship with a mentor? 10:11 Who can be a mentor? 11:58 What is the value of a mentorship relationship for the mentor? 16:15 What’s the difference between mentorship and sponsorship? 19:06 Why is sponsorship important? 19:41 What does mentorship look like in a remote world? 24:45 What should my next steps be?

What makes a good college mentor, and how does having one set you on the path to success? Guest: James Span Jr., executive director of Student Inclusion and Diversity at Central Michigan University.   00:00   Introduction 00:57   What is your personal experience with mentors? 06:57   What are the benefits of having a mentor in college? 12:22   How can you be intentional in a mentoring relationship? 18:38   How do you become a mentor? 22:06   What’s the value and pressure of mentorship for individuals with shared identities? 28:50   What mentorship programs exist at Central Michigan University? 34:19   What is the role of mentorship in academic and student affairs? 37:19   What’s the value of building relationships with students?

What is the FAFSA form and why should every student fill it out? And what do you need to know about the major changes coming to the FAFSA submission process for the 2024-2025 academic year?    Guest:  Sarah Kasabian-Larson, director of scholarships and financial aid at Central Michigan University.    00:00 Intro  00:21 What is the FAFSA form?  01:31 Who should fill out the FAFSA form?  03:13 Is there a cost to file the FAFSA form?  03:44 What are common roadblocks in the FAFSA process?  05:00 What changes are coming to the FAFSA form?    09:05 How does the FAFSA Simplification Act impact the FAFSA process?  17:29 What information do I need to have on hand to fill out the FAFSA form?   18:40 When will students receive their financial aid offers?   21:06 Why is it important to file the FAFSA early? 

What exactly is El Niño? And how will it impact the weather and ecosystems in the Midwest?     Guest: Zach Johnson, climate scientist and assistant meteorology professor at Central Michigan University.    00:00 Introduction  00:28 What is El Niño?   03:47 What happens to trade winds during El Niño?  05:54 What’s the difference between weather and climate?  06:30 What is the impact of El Niño on the Midwest?  09:11 What are signs of El Niño’s impact?  11:09 How can you prepare for El Niño in the Midwest?  13:17 What’s the importance of studying and teaching about El Niño?  14:39 What are the challenges in predicting El Niño?  16:30 What’s the connection between El Niño and climate change? 

What is justified belief? And what drives belief in conspiracy theories? Guest: Josh Smith, philosophy professor at Central Michigan University 00:00 Introduction 01:07 What is epistemology? 03:40 What is justified belief? 08:11 What is knowledge? 11:16 Do we need evidence to support our beliefs? 17:47 Why is it difficult to get an unbiased view of the world? 23:32 What’s the role of skepticism and cynicism? 26:46 How do we prevent the spread of conspiracy theories and misinformation? 33:05 How do you spot misinformation or fake news?

Does trauma ever go away? What can be done to lessen its lasting effects? And what sort of help is out there for people dealing with trauma?   Guest: Nikita Murry, director of diversity education at Central Michigan University

What can you do with a philosophy degree? Almost anything you want - seriously. Get answers to some of the most asked questions surrounding how to turn a philosophy degree into your dream job. Guest: Matt Katz, faculty member in the Department of Philosophy, Anthropology and Religion, at Central Michigan University

Where do you start when it comes to building a professional network? And what does it take to maintain and cultivate those relationships? Guest: Deborah Gray, professor of marketing, College of Business Administration at Central Michigan University

How do you apply to college? And what are some tips to make the process as stress-free as possible? Get answers to some of the most asked questions surrounding the college application process.  Guest: Patty Young, director of undergraduate recruitment at Central Michigan University 

Why is it so hard to have difficult conversations about uncomfortable or polarizing issues? And what are some of the best and worst things you can say when you disagree with someone? Get answers to some of the most asked questions about having difficult conversations. Guest: Nikita Murry, director of diversity education at Central Michigan University  00:00 Introduction 02:21 How do you communicate without being judgmental? 04:22 What’s the difference between having an argument and engaging in dialogue? 07:48 What’s a good way to start a difficult conversation? 15:46 What are some of the best and worst things you can do when preparing for a difficult conversation? 19:34 What are some tips for facilitating conversations to help people talk across differences?

How does excessive screen time impact our health? And what are some ways to regain control and reduce screen time altogether?    Get answers to some of the most asked questions surrounding screen time.    Guest: Sarah Domoff, associate professor of psychology at Central Michigan University.    00:00 Introduction  01:38 What are guidelines for managing a child’s screen time?  03:37 How can I set healthy screen time limits?  06:13 How do I transition away from screen time?  10:19 What negative effects can screen time have on our health?  14:48 How can families work together to regain control of their screen time? 

What is leadership and why should we care about it? What makes an effective leader? And can followers be leaders?     Get answers to some of the most asked questions surrounding leadership.    Guest: Dan Gaken, director of the Sarah R. Opperman Leadership Institute at Central Michigan University.    00:00 Introduction  01:33 What is leadership?  03:19 What makes an effective leader?  06:31 Why is empathy important as a leader?  10:50 How can I become a better listener?  13:56 Can followers also be leaders?  15:55 Fictional leaders in pop culture 

With continued advancements in Artificial Intelligence, what are some of the biggest ethical concerns around AI when it comes to creating content, the entertainment industry, misinformation and use in the military? Get answers to some of the most asked questions surrounding the ethics of artificial intelligence. Guest: Matt Katz, faculty member in the Department of Philosophy, Anthropology and Religion, at Central Michigan University 00:00   Introduction 00:39   What are the main types of artificial intelligence? 04:50   What does AI have to do with the Hollywood strike? 06:31   Is AI going to replace actors or writers? 08:55 How is AI being used in the military and misinformation? 12:51   How can you tell if something was made with AI? 14:36   Is the government regulating AI? 17:26   What are some good resources to learn about the ethics of AI?  

What’s the difference between stress and anxiety? What signs let us know when someone is becoming overwhelmed? And, what steps can we take when we start feeling overwhelmed?  Get answers to some of the most asked questions surrounding stress and anxiety.    Guest: Melissa Hutchinson, executive director of counseling services at Central Michigan University.    00:00 Introduction   00:43 What’s the difference between stress and anxiety?   03:34 Can stress become anxiety?   04:56 What do young people think about mental health?   06:04 How do I help someone who is struggling emotionally?   09:12 How do I help someone seek professional help?   10:34 What’s the difference between self-care and self-soothing?   13:33 What can I do if I’m feeling overwhelmed?   15:45 Any additional advice about stress and anxiety?     Learn more about the services offered by the CMU Counseling Center. 

How can you add more experience to your resume? How can you improve your personal brand? And, where do you start when thinking about a career change?    Get answers to some of the most asked questions about setting yourself apart in a competitive job market.    Guest: Rob VanDorin, director of the Career Development Center at Central Michigan University    00:00 – Introduction  00:41 – How does low unemployment impact the job market?  03:11 – How can I add more relevant experience to my resume?   04:54 – How can I improve my personal brand?  06:29 – How can I leverage social media in my job search?  08:34 – Any tips for making a career change?  13:43 – How can I set myself apart in a job interview? 

What's causing inflation and rising interest rates, and what can you do to better navigate an economy that's much different than it was not that long ago?       Get answers to some of the most asked questions surrounding inflation, the Federal Reserve and the U.S. National debt.    Guest: Jason Taylor, professor of economics at Central Michigan University    00:00 – Introduction  01:20 – What is inflation?  03:08 – How is inflation measured?  04:25 – What is the Federal Reserve and how did it come to be?  06:20 – Why does The Fed raise or lower interest rates?  08:12 – How does the debt ceiling work and how does it impact the economy?  11:26 – Who holds the U.S. national debt?  13:20 – What resources are there for good economic information? 

Nearly all teenagers in the U.S. use social media. How is it impacting mental health? And what steps can people take to help lessen the harm of social media on kids?    Get answers to some of the most asked questions surrounding how to talk to your child about safe social media use, how to monitor their social media use, cyberbullying, and some of the positive effects of teen social media use.  Guest: Sarah Domoff, associate professor of psychology at Central Michigan University    00:00 Introduction  02:20 What should I talk to my teen about before they use social media?  03:43 How can parents learn about the different social media platforms?  04:43 How do I talk to my teen about safe social media use?  07:02 How should I monitor my child’s social media?  10:31 What can schools do about cyberbullying?  12:50 What are some positive effects of teen social media use?  13:48 What are some good social media resources for parents?