Navigating Ambiguity and Innovation in Higher Education

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About the Episode: 

We’re pleased to feature this conversation with podcasting veteran and seasoned educator Bonni Stachowiak, host of the Teaching in Higher Ed podcast, about the power of teaching, creativity, and vulnerability. Bonni shares insights from over a decade of podcasting and reflects on how curiosity and empathy drive her approach to teaching. They discuss the evolving role of AI in education, how institutions can nurture a culture of learning, and why hope—combined with action—is crucial in shaping the future of higher ed. Bonnie’s reflections remind us that teaching is a joyful yet complex journey, where human connection, curiosity, and adaptability are key.

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Key Takeaways

• Teaching is more than a role; it’s a purpose: Bonni emphasizes the lifelong joy and challenges of teaching, describing it as an evolving practice of curiosity and connection.
• Curiosity drives innovation in education: By adopting an asset-based mindset, educators can unlock new ways to engage students, even amidst the rise of AI and rapid changes in pedagogy.
• Empathy and hope are essential tools: Both educators and students thrive when empathy, understanding, and a commitment to collective growth are prioritized.
• Generative AI is a tool, not a threat: Bonni reflects on AI’s potential as an assistant or coach in higher education, urging a balanced, curious approach to its integration.
• Sustainability matters in creativity: With over a decade of consistent podcasting, Bonni highlights the importance of structure, systems, and embracing vulnerability to sustain creative projects.

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Episode Summary

What Makes Teaching More Than a Job?

Bonni’s passion for teaching was evident as early as childhood, but her path to becoming an educator was anything but conventional. Teaching, for her, isn’t confined to the classroom but shows up in countless ways—whether in franchising, higher education, or podcasting. She believes in expanding our understanding of teaching to see it as an imaginative, purpose-driven practice.

Her reflections on teaching highlight the importance of cultivating purpose. She shares how her doctoral research in leadership studies revealed the power of asset-based thinking. For educators, this means recognizing inherent strengths in themselves and their students to create spaces of collaboration and growth.

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What Does Sustainability in Content Creation Look Like?

Sustainability, vulnerability, and creativity are central to Bonni’s prolific work as a podcaster. Producing Teaching in Higher Ed weekly since 2014 has taught her the power of routine and systems, such as utilizing checklists and embracing feedback.

She discusses her approach to vulnerability, acknowledging the challenges of being authentic while consistently showing up for her audience. Creativity, on the other hand, energizes her, serving as a wellspring of innovation and connection.

These lessons apply not just to podcasting but to any long-term creative endeavor. Bonni’s key takeaway? Sustainability comes from having systems in place and embracing the imperfections of the creative process.

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How Should Educators Navigate AI in Higher Ed?

Generative AI is reshaping the educational landscape, and Bonni’s work as a scholar-in-residence at the University of Michigan-Dearborn placed her at the forefront of the conversation. While acknowledging the ambiguity surrounding AI, she encourages educators to approach it with curiosity and a readiness to adapt.

Rather than seeing AI as a threat, Bonni suggests reframing it as a coach or assistant. She underscores the importance of equity in AI’s implementation, ensuring students have access to tools and resources regardless of their socioeconomic status.

To foster productive use of AI in higher education, institutions must prioritize digital literacy and ethical policies that evolve alongside technology.

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Why Empathy and Hope Matter in Higher Ed

Throughout the episode, Bonni reiterates the importance of empathy and compassion—not just for students, but also for educators themselves. By fostering environments of understanding, educators can create transformative learning experiences.

She also champions hope as a tool for action. Quoting Kevin Gannon, Bonni reminds listeners that hope without action isn’t enough; instead, hope must be embodied in practice to make meaningful change.

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About the Show: The Higher Ed Geek Podcast explores the impact of edtech on the student experience by speaking with diverse leaders from institutions, companies, and nonprofit organizations. Each week we aim to provide an engaging, fun, and relevant dose of professional development that honors the wide range of work happening all across the higher ed ecosystem. Come geek out with us! The Higher Ed Geek Podcast is hosted by Dustin Ramsdell and is a proud member of the Enrollify Podcast Network.

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Connect With Our Host:
Dustin Ramsdell‍

https://twitter.com/HigherEd_Geek

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About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!  

Some of our favorites include Generation AI and  I Wanna Work There. 

Enrollify is produced by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

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