Best HigherEdJobs Podcasts (2025)

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Conversations That Shaped 2025, Part 1: An Editorial RoundTable 23:55

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4d ago23:55

23:55

In this end-of-the-year roundtable episode, members of the HigherEdJobs editorial team reflect on several standout articles and conversations from the past year. They discuss burnout and well-being across higher education, including why self-care looks different depending on role, career stage, and personal responsibilities. The group also explores…

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How Can Employees Make the Case for Professional Development Without Funding? 16:19

12d ago16:19

16:19

In this Ask the Expert episode, Dr. Yi Hao and Dr. Mallory Neil respond to a listener’s question about requesting support to attend a professional conference when funding is limited. They discuss how to frame the conversation around shared goals, prepare a clear and realistic proposal, and think through alternatives when travel is not an option. Yi…

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S5 Ep90: Beyond “Being Nice”: The Real Work of Empathy on Campus 30:54

19d ago30:54

30:54

In this episode, Dr. Laura Parson, associate professor of educational and organizational leadership at North Dakota State University, joins the podcast to talk about how empathy can shape daily life in higher education. Dr. Parson explains what it means to understand someone’s perspective, how self-awareness influences our reactions, and why timing…

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Ask the Expert: How Can Candidates Get a Read on Work-Life Balance During the Interview Process? 9:52

26d ago9:52

9:52

In this Ask the Expert episode, HR expert Kathleen Hermacinski joins the show to discuss how candidates can assess an institution’s approach to work-life balance without asking the question directly. She shares different ways to inquire about weekly rhythms, busy seasons, team support, and leadership modeling. Kathleen also explains what inconsiste…

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S5 Ep89: The Good Enough Framework: Rethinking Momentum and Managing Overwhelm 29:47

1M ago29:47

29:47

In this episode, Dr. Yi Hao, director of education and assessment at the Virginia Commonwealth University School of Pharmacy, and Dr. Mallory Neal, director of industry and alumni engagement at Clemson University, discuss the “good enough for now” approach and what it means for professionals building careers in higher education. They talk about fin…

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Ask the Expert: Where Can HR Leaders Turn When Everyone Turns to Them? 11:28

1M ago11:28

11:28

In this Ask the Expert episode, HR leader Kathleen Hermacinski returns to tackle a question many professionals hesitate to ask out loud: Who supports HR when HR supports everyone else? She talks through how her team uses daily “tailgates” to check in, think through tough situations, and build a stronger department culture. Kathleen also shares how …

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S5 Ep88: Gratitude in Action: Honoring Veterans Working in Higher Education 23:12

2M ago23:12

23:12

This Veterans Day episode revisits conversations from the HigherEdJobs Podcast archive to explore how veterans continue their service within higher education. Through clips featuring student affairs leaders, HR professionals, faculty, and campus advocates, the episode highlights the lived experiences of veterans working and studying in higher ed, a…

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S5 Ep87: I Am a Scholar: Expanding How We Understand Academic Work 20:54

2M ago20:54

20:54

In this episode, Dr. Jeni Hart, dean of the Graduate School and vice provost for graduate studies at the University of Missouri, reflects on what it really means to be a scholar. She discusses how early experiences in her career shaped her understanding of credibility in academic spaces and how assumptions about institutional prestige can influence…

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S5 Ep86: Careers in Student Affairs Month: Rethinking Connection and Retention 34:54

2M ago34:54

34:54

In this episode, Dr. Jeremy Moore, dean of students at Naropa University, joins the conversation in celebration of Careers in Student Affairs Month. Drawing from nearly two decades in higher education, Dr. Moore discusses how student affairs professionals are adapting to serve post-traditional learners, balance rising care team demands, and use tec…

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Ask the Expert: How Can Job Seekers Stay Confident When a Search Is Delayed? 14:01

2M ago14:01

14:01

In this Ask the Expert episode, a listener asks how to navigate a job search when a hiring process is suddenly paused. HR expert and longtime HigherEdJobs contributor Christopher Lee returns to explain why searches can stall, what that means for candidates, and when it makes sense to reapply. He shares several ways to follow up respectfully, keep p…

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S5 Ep85: The One Question That Interviewers Love To Hear 18:35

2M ago18:35

18:35

In this episode, longtime HigherEdJobs contributor Justin Zackal’s article, “The One Question That Higher Ed Interviewers Love to Hear,” sparks a conversation between co-hosts Andy Hibel and Kelly Cherwin. Together, they explore why the questions candidates ask at the end of an interview can be just as impactful as their answers, offering insight o…

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Ask the Expert: How Can I Manage Interview Anxiety and Still Show Up Confidently? 12:47

3M ago12:47

12:47

By HigherEdJobs

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S5 Ep84: Interview Reminders Every Job Seeker Needs 16:33

3M ago16:33

16:33

In this continuation, executive search expert Gail Freeman shares the interview lessons you don’t often hear. She explains why professionalism still matters on Zoom, how a timely thank-you note can influence decisions, and what separates “star” candidates from the rest. Freeman also reflects on resilience in the face of rejection and why clarity an…

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Ask the Expert: Is the “Open to Work” Label a Job Search Advantage or Risk? 13:18

3M ago13:18

13:18

In this Ask the Expert episode, HR expert Kathleen Hermacinski returns to weigh in on a listener’s question: how do hiring managers view the “Open to Work” label on LinkedIn? She explains when the tag can make you more visible to recruiters, when it might spark awkward conversations, and how generational perspectives shape how it’s perceived. Kathl…

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S5 Ep83: A Culture of Care: Destigmatizing Basic Needs in Higher Education 27:55

3M ago27:55

27:55

In this episode, Paige Swanstein, co-founder of the Student Basic Needs Coalition, shares how her own struggles with food and housing insecurity in college grew into a national movement. She explains how SBNC empowers students, partners with campuses, and tackles stigma while connecting thousands to vital resources. Paige’s story highlights why mee…

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S5 Ep82: From Colonel to Campus — Leadership Lessons for College Athletics Careers 28:11

4M ago28:11

28:11

In this episode, Alan Kellogg, associate athletic director at the University of Louisville and retired U.S. Army Colonel, shares how three decades of military leadership prepared him for a second career in college athletics. Kellogg reflects on his transition from commanding troops to supporting student-athletes, offering insight into the fast-pace…

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S5 Ep81: How To Impress Recruiters and What 10,000 Interviews Reveal 18:24

4M ago18:24

18:24

In this episode, executive search expert Gail Freeman reflects on the lessons she’s learned from conducting more than 10,000 interviews. Drawing on her firsthand experience, she shares what makes a hiring process meaningful, the qualities she notices in candidates who rise to the top, and the missteps that hold others back. Freeman’s perspective of…

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Ask the Expert: How Can I Protect My Privacy in the Resignation Process? 13:23

4M ago13:23

13:23

In this Ask the Expert episode, a listener asks how to step away from a position without disclosing where they’re headed next. Kathleen Hermacinski, associate vice president of human resources at Illinois Wesleyan University, returns to share strategies for resigning with grace, setting respectful boundaries, and keeping relationships intact. She d…

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S5 Ep80: Disability, Disclosure, and Authenticity in Higher Education 35:42

4M ago35:42

35:42

In this episode, Emily Ladau, disability rights activist, writer, and consultant, shares her perspective on navigating the job search and professional life as a person with a disability. She discusses the challenges of disclosure, how authenticity shapes professional identity, and the role of storytelling in shifting workplace culture. Drawing from…

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Ask the Expert: How Do Women Build Authority in Academic Leadership? 15:06

7M ago15:06

15:06

In this Ask the Expert episode, a listener asks how women in higher ed can assert their leadership when they're not always given space to lead -- even when they hold leadership titles. Dr. Gretchen M. Bataille returns to share practical strategies for building influence, speaking with authority, and navigating common gendered challenges in academic…

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Ask the Expert: Are Search Committees Just Going Through the Motions? 13:25

7M ago13:25

13:25

In this episode, Matt Trainum discusses interview dynamics and how candidates can navigate processes that feel discouraging or unclear. He explores why perceived red flags -- like disengaged committees or brief postings -- don’t always mean the job is out of reach. Trainum shares real-world stories, practical advice for assessing institutional cult…

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Ask the Expert: Women's Leadership in Higher Education 15:50

7M ago15:50

15:50

In this Ask the Expert episode, a listener asks for advice on how women in higher education can break into leadership roles -- especially when they don’t meet every qualification listed in a job posting. Expert Dr. Gretchen Bataille shares thoughtful guidance on navigating these transitions, from building transferable skills and choosing the right …

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E79: Emotional Labor in Higher Education and What You Should Know About It 32:32

8M ago32:32

32:32

In this episode, Dr. Alicia Grandey discusses emotional labor and its impact on professionals working in higher education. She explains how roles that require constant emotional regulation -- like those in student support, faculty leadership, or administration -- can lead to burnout and compassion fatigue. Dr. Grandey shares practical frameworks fo…

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Ask the Expert: How Do You Become Less of a Doer and More of a Leader? 19:40

8M ago19:40

19:40

In this Ask the Expert episode, a listener asks for advice on how to become less of a doer and more of a leader, especially with so much work to be done. Dr. Gretchen M. Bataille, a seasoned higher education leader, shares her perspectives and experiences on making this shift. Do you have a career question that you would like to submit to Ask the E…

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E78: Advice for Job Seekers Looking To Work at a Medical School or College of Medicine 34:04

8M ago34:04

34:04

In this episode, Dr. Bi Awosika shares her advice for those looking to pursue careers at a medical school or college of medicine. She highlights some key differences in these positions compared to other higher ed departments, the importance of mentorship, and some advice on landing a role. You can learn even more from Dr. Awosika in this Higher Ed …

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Ask the Expert: What To Do When Your Original Job Description No Longer Matches Your Current Role 10:53

8M ago10:53

10:53

In this Ask the Expert episode, a listener asks for advice on how to work with supervisors when your original job description and duties no longer reflect your current position. Expert Dr. Chris Lee shares several key insights on how to professionally navigate these scenarios. Do you have a job search question that you would like to submit to Ask t…

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E77: Going From Peer to Supervisor in Higher Education - Tips, Advice, and Lessons Learned 29:56

9M ago29:56

29:56

In this episode, Dr. AnnMarie Caño shares her advice, and lessons learned, when moving from peer to supervisor and maintaining your work relationships while doing so. Dr. Caño is the author of "Leading Toward Liberation: How to Build Cultures of Thriving in Higher Education." Do you have a topic you would like us to discuss on the podcast? Send us …

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Ask the Expert: Should I Work at My Alma Mater? 12:56

9M ago12:56

12:56

In this Ask the Expert episode, a listener asks about becoming an employee at their alma mater. Higher education expert Matt Trainum shares the pros and cons of working at your alma mater. Do you have a job search question that you would like to submit to Ask the Expert? Send it to us, and you might hear it discussed on the HigherEdJobs podcast.…

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The Playlist: New Songs for Your Job Search 8:18

9M ago8:18

8:18

Check out which songs have been added to the HigherEdJobs Playlist for your higher ed job search! Guests Aditya Johri and Ayanna McConnell share which songs keep them inspired. Do you have songs you want to add to the playlist? Email us at [email protected] with your suggestions and why you think they belong on the playlist!…

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Ask the Expert: How Can I Leverage My Age and Experience in a Job Search? 15:51

9M ago15:51

15:51

In this Ask the Expert episode, a listener asks how to leverage their age and experience in their job search. Higher education expert Dr. Chris Lee answers and offers his tips for success. Do you have a job search question that you would like to submit to Ask the Expert? Send it to us, and you might hear it discussed on the HigherEdJobs podcast.…

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E76: Have You Had a Conversation With Military-Affiliated Students? Part II 22:29

9M ago22:29

22:29

Join the HigherEdJobs Podcast crew in a conversation with military-affiliated students. In part II, hear how their institution has created a sense of belonging for military-affiliated students, their advice for institutions, and questions from the live audience. This episode was recorded at the 2025 NASPA Symposium on Military-Connected Students. T…

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E75: Have You Had a Conversation With Military-Affiliated Students? Part I 27:27

10M ago27:27

27:27

Join the HigherEdJobs Podcast crew in a conversation with military-affiliated students. In part I, get to know their stories, intersectional identities, and varying student support needs. This episode was recorded at the 2025 NASPA Symposium on Military-Connected Students. The panel welcomes four current military-affiliated students at University o…

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E74: How To Find Joy in Your Job Search 15:24

10M ago15:24

15:24

Finding a new job or leaving a current one can be stressful, time consuming, and, at times, disheartening. Is there any room for joy in the job search process? Listen in to hear Kelly and Andy talk about the HigherEdJobs article How to Find Joy in Your Job Search and how to apply some coping strategies to your job search. Do you have a topic you wo…

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The Playlist: New Songs for Your Job Search 8:07

10M ago8:07

8:07

Check out which songs have been added to the HigherEdJobs Playlist for your higher ed job search! Guest Kathleen Hermacinski and a podcast listener share which songs keep them inspired. Do you have songs you want to add to the playlist? Email us at [email protected] with your suggestions and why you think they belong on the playlist!…

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E73: What Does It Take for University Staff To Thrive? 36:30

10M ago36:30

36:30

In this episode Kelly and Andy welcome Dr. Laurie Schreiner to the show to discuss what it means for higher education staff to thrive. Dr. Schreiner walks us through how we can work towards being meaningfully engaged in our work lives and how to find a university cultural fit that will keep us motivated. Resource mentioned in this episode: What Doe…

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E72: Which Is More Important, Your LinkedIn Profile or Resume/CV? 14:57

11M ago14:57

14:57

In this episode, Kelly and Andy have a cordial debate over whether a resume/CV or LinkedIn profile is more important during your job search. What do you think? Listen in to hear their take! Do you have a topic you would like us to discuss on the podcast? Send us your ideas, and you might hear them discussed on the HigherEdJobs podcast.…

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E71: What Is a Dream Job and How Does It Change Over the Years? 35:22

11M ago35:22

35:22

Recruitment and career expert, Mac Prichard, joins the HigherEdJobs Podcast to talk about dream jobs and how to embrace an effective job search at any career stage to find the right fit. Do you have a topic you would like us to discuss on the podcast? Send us your ideas, and you might hear them discussed on the HigherEdJobs podcast.…

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Ask the Expert: How Can I Spot Red Flags From an Employer During My Job Search? 13:13

11M ago13:13

13:13

In this Ask the Expert episode, a listener asks how to spot red flags from an employer during your job search, interview, or your recruitment process. Higher education HR expert Kathleen Hermacinski answers and offers her tips for success. Do you have a job search question that you would like to submit to Ask the Expert? Send it to us, and you migh…

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E70: Using Artificial Intelligence in Our Careers and Job Search 28:46

11M ago28:46

28:46

In this episode Kelly and Andrew have a conversation about using artificial intelligence (AI) in our careers and job search. Guest Evan Walsh, a higher ed career advisor, shares how AI impacts advising students for their future careers and how job seekers can effectively and ethically use artificial intelligence (AI) in their higher ed job search. …

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Ask the Expert: Advice for New HR Professionals in Higher Education 12:46

12M ago12:46

12:46

In this Ask the Expert episode, a newly hired human resources professional in higher ed asks how to get off on the right foot and for some do's and don'ts in their early career. Higher education HR expert Kathleen Hermacinski answers and offers her tips for success. Do you have a job search question that you would like to submit to Ask the Expert? …

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E69: Why Everyone Working in Higher Education Needs To Care About Their Institutional Business Model, Mission, and Culture 27:27

12M ago27:27

27:27

In this episode Marjorie Hass, president of the Council of Independent Colleges, joins the HigherEdJobs Podcast to discuss 2025 outlooks on higher education and why job seekers, faculty, staff, admin, and all employees of an institution need to care about the business model, mission, and culture of their institution. Do you have a topic you would l…

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Three Important Historical Events in Higher Education History 22:29

12M ago22:29

22:29

Host Andrew Hibel talks with Professor Emeritus John Thelin from the University of Kentucky's College of Education. Professor Thelin's teaching and research interests focus on the history of higher education and public policy. He likes to bring historical writing and research to contemporary discussions about significant, enduring higher education …

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Every Career in Academia Has Its Own Story Part 2 20:02

1y ago20:02

20:02

In the second of three podcast episodes, Andy Hibel talks with Professor Emeritus John Thelin from the University of Kentucky's College of Education. Professor Thelin's teaching and research interests focus on the history of higher education and public policy. He likes to bring historical writing and research to contemporary discussions about signi…

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E68: What You Can Learn from Springsteen's Career for Your Role in Higher Ed Part 2 30:18

1y ago30:18

30:18

In this episode, co-hosts Andy Hibel and Kelly Cherwin continue a conversation with Warren Zanes, music adjunct faculty at Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development at New York University. Zanes is the author of "Deliver Me from Nowhere: The Making of Bruce Springsteen's Nebraska," which is now being made into a biographical fi…

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Every Career in Academia Has Its Own Story 22:30

1y ago22:30

22:30

In the first of three podcast episodes, Andy Hibel talks with Professor Emeritus John Thelin from the University of Kentucky's College of Education. Professor Thelin's teaching and research interests focus on the history of higher education and public policy. He likes to bring historical writing and research to contemporary discussions about signif…

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E67: What You Can Learn from Springsteen's Career for Your Role in Higher Ed Part 1 28:22

1y ago28:22

28:22

In this episode, co-hosts Andy Hibel and Kelly Cherwin talk with Warren Zanes, music adjunct faculty at Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development at New York University. Zanes is the author of "Deliver Me from Nowhere: The Making of Bruce Springsteen's Nebraska," which sets the backdrop for the conversation on taking the road-l…

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Ask the Expert: Should I Take a Less-Preferred Job or Have a Gap in My Resume? 8:58

1y ago8:58

8:58

In this Ask the Expert episode, Chris Lee responds to a listener's question about when to consider accepting a less-preferred job offer. The listener asks, "What is better for my career development and future prospects: to take an open position in a department outside of my professional interests, even if my time there is short, or to have a gap in…

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E66: How to Promote Yourself and Keep Going in Your Job Search, Part 2 22:35

1y ago22:35

22:35

In this episode, co-hosts Andy Hibel and Kelly Cherwin continue a conversation with Professor Claire Kamp Dush from the University of Minnesota Twin Cities. She has dual appointments in the Minnesota Population Center and the Department of Sociology and studies topics at the intersection of psychology, sociology, and public health. Kamp Dush discus…

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E65: How to Promote Yourself and Keep Going in Your Job Search, Part 1 26:32

1y ago26:32

26:32

In this episode, co-hosts Andy Hibel and Kelly Cherwin talk with Professor Claire Kamp Dush from the University of Minnesota Twin Cities. She has dual appointments in the Minnesota Population Center and the Department of Sociology and studies topics at the intersection of psychology, sociology, and public health. Kamp Dush, a first-generation colle…

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Ask the Expert: Does Interviewing First or Last Matter? 8:57

1y ago8:57

8:57

In this Ask the Expert episode, Chris Lee responds to a listener's question about options for the timing of an interview. The listener asks, "When you are offered a variety of days and times by a search committee for an interview, which should I pick -- the earliest day and time that works for me? Or should I try to aim for the last available time …