The Student Hub Live Podcast

In today’s episode, Heidi speaks with Richard, a former OU student who discovered his natural talent for Law thanks to his experience with The Open University. After studying for a certificate in Higher Education with the OU, he went on to study full time at Birmingham City University and now has just one year left of his LLB. Richard talks about his love for the OU and how it helped him find direction in life. He also discusses his greatest passion, radio. Richard has just been appointed the Station Direction for Scratch Radio, his university’s student radio station. Heidi and Richard explore the role of AI in audio production and discuss the importance of building community when studying at a distance.

In this month’s episode, Heidi (who has just finished the first year of her PhD) has recorded a solo podcast for us which focuses exclusively on studying for a PhD at The Open University. If you’ve always wanted to gain your doctorate but have felt excluded because of finances, caring responsibilities or a lack of confidence, this episode will help move you towards your goal. Although the OU welcomes anyone looking to self-fund their PhD, we know for many, this isn’t possible. As such, Heidi outlines the route she took which landed her a fully-funded scholarship. As a single mum, Heidi thought she’d have to wait until retirement to study for her PhD, but she found a way to make it work. The Grand Union Doctoral Training Partnership, led by the University of Oxford in collaboration with The Open University and Brunel University, offers an array of incredible opportunities for aspiring doctoral students. Heidi shares advice for building connections and highlights the importance of finding the right supervisors for you.   Concerned about feeling alone? What many people don’t realise is that the OU has a beautiful, huge campus just outside Milton Keynes (along with offices in Cardiff, Belfast and Edinburgh). Here, you will find a friendly community of 900 PhD students, so you definitely won’t feel isolated. Taking a leap of faith and following your passion takes courage, but the OU is on standby to help you achieve your goals. Find out more about the various options available to you by looking at the OU’s Research Degrees website and the OU job vacancies page which includes details of available scholarships (be sure to bookmark the URL and keep checking it regularly, you will be amazed at what you will find!)   If you have any questions, email [email protected] and Heidi will come back to you as soon as possible. Thanks for listening.

Today, OU PhD student Heidi, was joined by Sharon, an OU student studying Arts and Humanities with the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. Sharon is a classically trained dancer, singer and actress, who has featured in films, TV and on the stage. Her journey with the OU began when she was awarded a prestigious Black Students’ Support Fund Scholarship in 2023 (find out more about the scholarship here).   Sharon is now in her second year of her degree and shares her experience of studying with the OU so far, her exciting plans to write an autobiography, her inspirational daughter and her aspiration to become a teacher. With 16 years of experience of working with children and young people, Sharon plans to become a Performing Arts teacher. In this conversation, she outlines ways to avoid feeling isolated as an OU student and encourages all those with a dream to pursue it.   Unfortunately, due to technical issues on the day of the recording, there is a slightly abrupt ending to today’s episode. We apologise for this but use it as a reminder that life always throws us curveballs! As students, we all know the challenges of IT glitches and connection issues, but just like with today’s episode, we do our best, press on and make the very best of it. Huge thanks to Sharon for generously sharing almost three hours of her day with us to make this episode possible and thanks to Sophie Hoyle from The Open University for making this great conversation happen.   Do send us your feedback via [email protected].

In this episode, Heidi and Scott speak with Dan Richards, an elite athlete and OU student who received a Disabled Veterans Scholarship with The Open University in 2023. After serving in The King's Troop Royal Horse Artillery, and later Afghanistan, Dan had a devastating motorbike accident which caused him to lose almost a quarter of his body. However, Dan refused to let ‘one bad day’ (his words) dictate the rest of his life. He soon began his progress back to recovery and to the military. After three more years, Dan was medically discharged, and after returning to live with his mum, a mixture of unemployment and depression caused him to question his future. However, a new job opportunity through Capstar Services and his relentless pursuit of his fitness goals (running, rowing and cycling), led him to the Invictus Games. He later joined The Open University in 2023 to study BSc (Hons) Sports, Fitness and Coaching. Dan’s story is one of perseverance, grit and determination, and one which we know will inspire so many. Be sure to follow him on Instagram @theonearmedwonder.   Please note, this episode details physical injury and includes two references to suicide.

In this special edition of the Student Hub Live Podcast, Heidi speaks to Rebekah. Rebekah is a mother to three children and is a year away from completing her Bachelor of Laws (LLB) with The Open University. She is a full-time carer to her eldest son, who requires 24/7 support, and was awarded a Carers Scholarship through the OU. In this inspiring conversation, Rebekah shares an array of insights into how she manages her time, stays motivated and outlines the barriers facing those looking to practise Law, especially women with caring responsibilities. This episode is designed to celebrate the amazing women out there raising their children while studying with the OU. Happy Mother’s Day. We would like to extend a huge thanks to our producer on this podcast, Sophie Hoyle, who works in the OU’s Development Office.   Enjoying the series? Be sure to rate us on whichever platform you download the podcast on and if you have any feedback, please email [email protected].

In this Student Hub Live podcast special, Heidi and Scott speak with Ayr, an OU student who has already completed a degree in Psychology and is now on to the next, History. Ayr overcame a series of personal difficulties when studying, and uses education as a positive mechanism for coping with challenging times. Please note that in this episode, Ayr discusses grief, including the loss of a sibling and parent. Ayr also outlines the adversity faced by young people with special educational needs struggling to be seen and understood in ill-equipped mainstream schools. It wasn’t until Ayr was almost thirty that formal diagnoses were finally made, including dyslexia and dyscalculia, meaning that finally, support could be put in place, and Ayr could thrive. Ayr sees the OU as a route to mental wellbeing and happiness for so many and encourages everyone to give it a try.

In the first episode of 2025, Heidi and Scott discuss how they stay motivated throughout January (not an easy task!) Scott draws on his planning routine to stay on top of things while Heidi opts to prioritise rest where possible to maintain her energy levels (coupled with her favourite hobby, feeding the birds and squirrels in her garden). There are huge changes underway for Scott who discusses his fantastic new teaching role following his move out of London and back to the countryside, stepping back from his 16-year career as a personal trainer. Heidi updates us on her PhD (now four months’ in) and outlines the challenges of studying at this level. Plus, as ever, this episode is filled with tips and advice on getting through your studies. Why not make yourself a cup of tea, get comfy and come and join Heidi and Scott for this month’s episode?   If you have any feedback on the podcast or if you would like to get involved, please email [email protected]

In this very special episode of the Student Hub Live Podcast, Heidi and Scott speak with Rob Moore, an Associate Lecturer at The Open University. As one of our main Student Hub Live presenters, you will likely to know Rob as the reassuring, kind host who joins us from his ‘study shack’. However, what few students may realise, is that Rob has been dedicated to supporting OU students for over twenty years and has helped literally thousands to succeed.   Did you know, Rob’s role sees him supporting OU students serving prison sentences? Plus, students serving in active war zones? In this episode, Rob also shares details of quite how varied and fulfilling his role as an Open University Associate Lecturer is, plus the details of the most memorable graduation ceremony (featuring a rather lovely celebrity guest) and talks about the importance of connecting with other students where you can.   Heidi and Scott would love to hear from you. If you have any feedback on today’s show, please email [email protected] and don’t forget to follow former OU student Scott from Mad About History on Tik Tok and Instagram.

In the final episode of the Student Hub Live Podcast: Summer Edition, Scott outlines the fascinating history of Stonehenge and stresses the importance of caring for historical sites and artefacts. Plus, Heidi and Scott ask each other a series of questions, including what courses they would design if they could, what they would title their autobiographies, which fictional character they would have dinner with, the superpowers they would choose and one piece of advice they would give. Finally, they promote the importance of mental wellbeing. Remember, as an Open University student you have access to extensive mental health support, including the OU's wellbeing app and free access to the Shout 85258 text support service. Don't hesitate to reach out if you're having a hard time, The Open University is always here for you. If you've enjoyed the series and would like to hear more from Heidi and Scott, please let us know by emailing [email protected]. 

In today's episode, the penultimate in our Student Hub Live Podcast Summer Edition series, Heidi puts Scott on the spot and tests his Open University knowledge. We would love for you to join in wherever you are listening to the podcast, let us know your score via [email protected]. If you'd like to find out more facts about the OU or verify any of the answers in today's quiz, click here. Plus, in our 'World Wide Webber' feature, Scott provides an overview on the Battle of Hastings in response to a query from OU student Steve (rather fitting considering William the Conqueror is Scott's 28th Great Grandad!)

In this episode, Heidi and Scott discuss how to bounce back from disappointment, especially university grades which don’t align with your expectations! They talk about how to shift your perspective and use setbacks as an opportunity for growth. They explore some of the issues faced by students who have to sacrifice time with their families and how to manage feelings of ‘letting down’ those around you. Scott talks about studying during lockdown and offers advice on how to help communicate the demands of study with your significant other. Finally, he outlines the origin of Rome in response to a request by Charlotte who sent a DM on Instagram for the podcast’s new feature, the World Wide Webber, where Scott, a history expert, condenses a significant period in history into three minutes.   With only two episodes remaining in the summer series, don’t hesitate to get in touch using [email protected]. 

In today’s episode, Scott and Heidi talk you through many benefits available to you when you join as an Open University student. Scott will explain incredible discounts available via Totum, UNiDAYS and UCAS, including cinema treats, Amazon Prime Student and Spotify for students, plus, he also shares information about his friend Luke’s successful YouTube channel, College Music, totally free for everyone to enjoy. Heidi highlights the free Being an OU Student course, the SCONUL Access scheme, free Office 365 access for OU students, the delights of being part of the OU Alumni Association, including exclusive discounts, events and volunteering opportunities, plus, she will talk you through how you can access free careers support with OU experts and the whole host of financial support available to OU students. Finally, Heidi and Scott launch “The World Wide Webber”. In this new feature, students get to ask Scott about any period in history and he will explain it in just three minutes. OU student Lenka asked for an overview of the Ottoman Empire and as ever, Scott did not disappoint! Email Heidi and Scott via [email protected].

In this episode, you’ll find out why Scott found himself in a (very hot) room with LeBron James, Shaquille O’Neal, Eminem and Snoop Dog this week, plus we discuss distance learning versus learning at a bricks and mortar university. Are you thinking of joining the OU but are concerned you might feel isolated? Are you worried there won’t be enough pastoral care? In which case, this episode is designed for you… Plus, Scott, the founder of Mad About History, talks about the origins of beer and pizza and the historical artefacts he is most eager to see. In this episode we mention the following: The role of the OU’s Student Support Team The disability support available with the OU MA in Classical Studies MA in Art History Are you finding the podcast a useful resource? We would love to hear from you. Email Heidi and Scott using [email protected].

In this episode, Scott and Heidi talk about the importance of rest for wellbeing and effective study. Scott outlines how exercise and reading are his go-to relaxation strategies, while Heidi discusses her trips away, solo-dates and setting healthy boundaries. They also discuss the freedom that comes with being able to simply admit you don't know something and the importance of taking guilt-free breaks from study and life when needed. We really hope you find this episode helpful and reassuring. Scott and Heidi present and produce this podcast in their own time for free in order to provide support for OU students so please don't forget to email us your feedback using [email protected].

In this week’s podcast, Scott and Heidi discuss study strategies and expectations versus reality when it comes to studying with The Open University. Plus, Scott offers tips on how he deals with online trolls, shares fascinating history facts about potatoes, perpetual stews (gross) and early South American civilizations, and talks about the importance of not slipping behind in your studies. Heidi discusses the value of self-compassion while studying and shares details of her toughest study day EVER where she ended up crying in McDonald’s at midnight!   We really hope you are enjoying the series this summer. Don’t forget to get in touch with any questions via [email protected]

In today's podcast, Heidi and Scott, both former OU students, share their experiences of self-doubt. Despite having one of the most popular history Tik Tok channels in the UK and winning a national award as a personal trainer, Scott shares how he is still plagued by imposter syndrome. Heidi talks about perfection paralysis and how she refuses to let it stop her, outlining how studying with the OU played an instrumental role in helping her to tackle it. We hope by the end of today's session you feel suitably reassured that despite any negative rhetoric you were taught in regards to your learning capabilities, or how much your confidence has been undermined, you have everything it takes to succeed in higher education. As ever, you can reach out to the show using [email protected]. Heidi and Scott would love your feedback.

In this first podcast of the series, Heidi and Scott discuss their experiences of studying with The Open University, how struck they were by the passion and expertise of OU Associate Lecturers and the quality of OU teaching materials. Scott talks about how he harnessed his love of learning and developed his hugely successful Tik Tok channel, Mad About History while Heidi shares her challenges with exams and the misery of school! Plus, they talk about ‘following their bliss’ and embracing introversion and self-awareness.   You can follow Scott on Instagram @mad_about_history_scott and Tik Tok @madabouthistory.   Don’t hesitate to reach out to the team if you have any questions or feedback using [email protected].

In all areas of life, we can be fed idealised images – and the same applies to study journeys. You may come across certain ideas of what is ‘normal’ or what you should do to be a ‘good student’. Sometimes it can even feel like you don’t fit the mould of what a good student should be. The great thing at The Open University is that we’re different from other universities. Here at Student Hub Live, we recognise that everyone has their own aptitudes and their own ‘OU normal’. In this interactive live broadcast, we’ll look at some ways of identifying your strengths and explore how to make the most of them within your unique study journey.   Link to PDF transcript

Within your studies you are often presented with facts, theories and information that you need to use within your assessment. Working out how to select the best parts and how to represent them in an effective way can be tricky. Do you use quotes? Do you give your own interpretation of what they might mean? Can you even say which parts are relevant to your argument? In this live broadcast we will be looking at some of these questions and suggesting different ways to use other people’s ideas within your own work. We will also look at why it’s important to give credit where it’s due. We’ll focus on experience-led tips and ideas on what works well and some things to avoid.   Link to PDF transcript

Do you work or study with people from a wide variety of backgrounds and cultures? Do your words sometimes get ‘lost in translation’? Is English an additional language for you? This session brings together experts from our School of Languages and Applied Linguistics with colleagues working in business and health and social care. They will discuss the challenges of interacting in a globally connected world, considering the impact of language, culture, time zone, and whether you are online or communicating face-to-face. As well as helping you recognise the complexities involved, this highly interactive session will offer top tips and strategies to use in your work and study. Link to PDF transcript

This session will help you make a confident start to your Access module. We will explain how the module is organised, what to expect from your tutor and what assessment is all about. Access students nearing the end of their module will share their experiences and pass on lots of top tips and advice to help you. The module teams will also be on hand to answer questions. This session is designed to ensure you get your studies off to the best possible start and develop your confidence and understanding.   Link to PDF transcript

We all need a confidence boost to feel study ready. It doesn’t matter whether your studies have been paused for years, months, or just over the summer, we want to help you feel ready to restart. In this broadcast we’ll hear from real students and discuss how tough they sometimes found it – and why they’re glad they carried on. We’ll look at the practicalities of coming back to study and have careers experts on hand to help you focus on the end goal. Don’t feel stuck – join us to take the first step towards rediscovering your study ambition.   Link to PDF transcript

Whether this is your first or 12th end of module assessment, pulling together a years’ worth of work can be a little daunting. End of module assessments can be more challenging than tutor marked assignments because of the scope of the content as well as the complexity of the task. In this broadcast we discuss how to work with key themes and concepts and how to balance breadth and depth of discussion. We’ll also think about how to plan your time effectively as you work on either a prepared end of module assessment or for an exam. Join members of staff and other students to make a plan and pick up some new ideas to apply to your study.   Link to PDF transcript

First assignments in a new module are always exciting – a chance to work with your Associate Lecturer in developing your skills. Theoretically speaking, your first assignments are the starting point for improvement, and you will learn more each time. However, assignments can sometimes create feelings that can get in the way of learning. One of the things we know at SHL is that many students feel anxious or worry that they’re not as good as others – we also know that sharing these feelings helps us realise that we’re not alone. So please join us for this hour-long broadcast in which we discuss how to establish what you need to focus on in assignments, and what is important in terms of marks. We will also cover some of the technical and procedural details that will be helpful if this is your first piece of assessed work at the OU.

Starting out with the OU is very exciting. Before the module officially begins, and you gain access to your learning materials and the OU systems, you may want to spend some time thinking about what lies ahead. At this event we’ll introduce you to some key people at the OU and offer advice about setting yourself up for the best start. These sessions are a great opportunity to meet other students who are also beginning the journey, to share your own tips and experiences, and to learn from other, more seasoned students.

Whether you’re beginning your academic journey or are some way through, it is worth investing time in developing your writing style. Higher grades are often associated with clear and well-structured arguments, appropriate use of evidence and good communication skills, however is very common for students to put most of their energy into generally understanding module content. At this event we focus specifically on enhancing your writing skills, in particular how to use an academic voice, conveying your understanding of the question, planning and structuring your work, and referencing.  This hour-long remote broadcast will start at 12pm and will feature interviews with staff and students, tips and worksheets and you’ll be able to share your own experiences and ask questions of our guests — and each other — in the live chat.  If you have already attended our essay planning and writing workshops you will benefit from this session, but it is not necessary to have any prior experience of these events. You don’t need to prepare anything in advance, and you can choose whether to get really involved in the discussions or to sit back and reflect.

What does psychology have to do with climate change? Why are politics, medicine and supply-chain management all equally important when it comes to the smooth running of the Olympic Games? And how can artificial intelligence improve agriculture for better food security?  Growing evidence suggests that possessing knowledge and understanding across a range of different subjects is key when facing global challenges. Join our expert panel as they tackle a host of different perspectives in a fun and informal way to address some of these issues. If you’re wondering which topics will be chosen... the Student Hub Live 'Wheel of Fortune’ will decide!  Please open this event page on SHL site to view the resources associated with this broadcast.  

Distance learning can be an ideal way to spend time right now, and while some of the world has changed beyond recognition, for many OU students studying has been relatively consistent. Apart from things like changes in work, home schooling, a lack of social contact and many other challenges. At our SHL online social event we’ll have the opportunity to talk to other OU students about how we’ve found all these changes, and suggest ways that we’ve discovered new things. Guests will include Mike Batham who will tell us how he made sanitiser for Milton Keynes hospital and Jeni Sanderson, a life coach, who will explain why we can struggle at times like this and suggest ways we can turn some of the negatives into positives.  This live, online and interactive event is a fun way to chat with other students and participate in our studio panel’s discussions.  External Link Timestamps: 00:00 - Student Hub Live - http://studenthublive.open.ac.uk/ 48:04 - OpenLearn - https://www.open.edu/openlearn/ 52:00 - nQuire - https://nquire.org.uk/