Shows
The Rant PodcastNavigating the Next Four Years with Ted MitchellSend us a textThe American higher education system stands at a crossroads, facing unprecedented challenges that threaten its very foundation. In this revealing conversation, Eloy Ortiz Oakley sits down with Ted Mitchell, President of the American Council on Education (ACE), to discuss how colleges and universities across the country are responding to these threats.Mitchell, whose organization represents over 1,700 diverse institutions, offers a compelling perspective on how higher education is uniting across traditional dividing lines. "Higher ed sticks together, especially in times of crisis," Mitchell explains, highlighting the solidarity forming among institutions from community...2025-06-2435 minThe Rant PodcastNavigating the Next Four Years with Andrew MagliozziSend us a textWhat happens when artificial intelligence meets human connection? Magic, according to Andrew (Drew) Magliozzi, CEO and co-founder of Mainstay.In this eye-opening conversation from the ASU GSV Summit, Drew reveals the surprising secret behind effective AI in education: human involvement. After a decade of deploying conversational AI to support college students, Mainstay discovered that having just 2% of messages sent by actual humans triples the effectiveness of their system. Students feel comfortable being vulnerable with AI because it doesn't judge them, but they need that human connection to feel accountable....2025-06-1038 minThe Rant PodcastNavigating the Next Four Years with Ellie BertaniSend us a textEllie Bertani, CEO of GitLab Foundation, revolutionizes philanthropy with a data-driven approach that puts measurable economic impact at the center of every grant decision. This eye-opening conversation reveals how GitLab Foundation aims to generate at least $100 in increased earnings for every dollar they invest – a "North Star 100X goal" that guides their work across the United States, Colombia, and Kenya.What happens when you apply financial modeling to philanthropy? Bertani explains how her foundation builds ROI projections for every potential grant, allowing them to identify high-impact opportunities that might otherwise go un...2025-05-2033 minThe Rant PodcastNavigating the Next Four Years with John KingSend us a textWhen higher education comes under attack, who stands up to defend its core mission? In this compelling conversation, Chancellor John King of the State University of New York brings his unique perspective as a former high school teacher, Secretary of Education under President Obama, and leader of a major education advocacy organization to address the most pressing challenges facing American universities today. Chancellor King doesn't mince words as he articulates how SUNY maintains its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion despite political headwinds: "For us, diversity, equity, inclusion is in our DNA." He...2025-04-2933 minThe Rant PodcastNavigating the Next Four Years with Janet NapolitanoSend us a textThe drumbeat against higher education continues to grow louder. In this revealing conversation with Janet Napolitano—former Arizona Governor, Secretary of Homeland Security under President Obama, and President of the University of California—we explore the existential threats facing America's great research universities.Janet pulls no punches when discussing the political headwinds threatening higher education. With potential cuts that could strip "billions of dollars" from research universities like UC, we're witnessing what she describes as "eating our seed corn"—jeopardizing the very innovation pipeline that has powered America's global leadership. Graduate studen...2025-04-1030 minThe Rant PodcastNavigating the Next Four Years with Mike MadridSend us a textRepublican political consultant Mike Madrid joins host Eloy Ortiz-Oakley to examine the seismic shifts occurring in American democracy through the unique lens of Latino voter behavior. As co-founder of the Lincoln Project and author of "The Latino Century," Madrid brings data-driven insights that challenge conventional wisdom about minority voting patterns.The conversation delves deep into how Latino voters—now America's largest minority voting bloc—are transforming the political landscape. Madrid reveals compelling evidence that Latinos aren't becoming more conservative but more populist, rejecting both major parties at unprecedented rates. "The Republican Part...2025-03-2053 minThe Rant PodcastNavigating the Next Four Years with Mike MadridSend us a textRepublican political consultant Mike Madrid joins host Eloy Ortiz-Oakley to examine the seismic shifts occurring in American democracy through the unique lens of Latino voter behavior. As co-founder of the Lincoln Project and author of "The Latino Century," Madrid brings data-driven insights that challenge conventional wisdom about minority voting patterns. The conversation delves deep into how Latino voters—now America's largest minority voting bloc—are transforming the political landscape. Madrid reveals compelling evidence that Latinos aren't becoming more conservative but more populist, rejecting both major parties at unprecedented rates. "The Republican Party is winn...2025-03-1853 minThe Rant PodcastNavigating the Next Four Years with Michael ItzkowitzSend us a textThe pursuit of higher education has always been seen as a pathway to success, but how effectively are colleges serving low and moderate-income students? In this episode, we engage with Michael Itzkowitz to unveil the California Mobility Index, a new tool that examines how various institutions rank in terms of creating genuine opportunities for their students. The Mobility Index serves not merely to illuminate which colleges offer the best return on investment but to challenge traditional perceptions of educational value.As we navigate through this enlightening discussion, we discover how the...2025-03-0432 minThe Rant PodcastNavigating the Next Four Years with Phil HillSend us a textWhat if the challenges plaguing the edtech sector are actually opportunities in disguise? Join us as we welcome Phil Hill, the publisher of the On EdTech newsletter, who offers a wealth of insights into the complexities of the education technology landscape. Together, we tackle the financial struggles of major players like 2U and Anthology while uncovering the potential for stabilization and growth. Phil also sheds light on the groundbreaking role of generative AI in education, discussing the lessons gleaned from the LA Unified School District's AI tutor initiative.The discussion takes...2025-02-1838 minThe Rant PodcastNavigating the Next Four Years with Brandon Busteed of BrandEdSend us a textEver wondered how immersive, real-world learning can redefine higher education? Join us as we engage with Brandon Busteed, the innovative CEO of BrandEd, as he unravels the transformative power of work-based learning, especially during disruptive times like the Trump years ahead. Brandon shares his unique vision for BrandEd since his 2024 appointment, highlighting partnerships with prestigious brands such as The New York Times, Sotheby's, Manchester City and Vogue. These collaborations offer students extraordinary hands-on experiences that bridge education and career mobility, from pre-college programs to custom master's degrees. Get ready to unlock the potential...2025-02-0432 minThe Rant PodcastNavigating the Next Four Years with Former Under Secretary James KvaalSend us a textThis episode delves into the transformative changes in higher education under the Biden Administration, featuring insights from Undersecretary of Education James Kvaal. Key topics include student loan forgiveness achievements, the simplification of FAFSA, and the future of education amidst emerging technologies and political challenges.• Highlights the significant accomplishments in student loan forgiveness • Discusses the ongoing modernization of FAFSA • Provides advice for future administrations regarding educational equity • Explores the impact of AI and technology on higher education • Reflects on criticism faced in leadership positions Thank you for listening a...2025-01-2124 minThe Rant PodcastWelcome to 2025Send us a textThe future of higher education faces uncertainty as 2025 approaches, emphasizing the need for innovation, inclusivity, and economic mobility. The episode discusses the critical role of artificial intelligence, the challenges rejective institutions will face, and the ongoing fight for equity.• Reflection on 2024 achievements and past guests • Challenges and opportunities for higher education in 2025 • The role of AI in transforming learning experiences • Economic mobility and value as guiding principles • The defensive position of less inclusive institutions • The importance of inclusivity in educational spaces • Ongoing struggle for equity and its broader soci...2025-01-0704 minThe Rant PodcastGrowing Talent with Bijal Shah, CEO of GuildSend us a textJoin Eloy Ortiz-Oakley for an interesting conversation with Bijal Shah, the trailblazing CEO of Guild, as we unravel the company's transformative journey in reshaping talent development. Want to uncover how a mailroom employee discovered their true potential as a pharmacy technician? This episode reveals the secret sauce behind Guild's innovative coaching services that unlock hidden talents and align them with career dreams, including the embrace of generative AI to stay ahead in today's fast-paced market. Bijal Shah shares her groundbreaking vision for Guild, illustrating how strategic educational partnerships are crucial in keeping employees...2024-12-1026 minThe Rant PodcastThe Post 2024 Election RantSend us a textUnlock the key to higher education's future as we dissect the post-2024 election landscape with me, Eloy Ortiz-Oakley, on the Rant Podcast. This episode promises to unravel the pressing demand for transparency and career alignment within the education sector, highlighting the vital shifts needed to match academic offerings with the economic ambitions of today's students. We'll explore the electorate's clear message: economic mobility and opportunity are paramount, and educational institutions must evolve to meet these expectations.Join our discussion on the essential role of work-based learning and how employers are becoming...2024-11-2610 minThe Rant PodcastInnovation in Professional Degree Programs with Andy VaughnSend us a textDiscover the transformative journey of Alliant International University with insights from Andy Vaughn, its President and CEO, as he unveils the institution's strategic focus on professional practice degrees in mental health, nursing, and teaching, all designed for state licensure. Andy shares the university’s storied legacy of inclusivity and social justice, along with its evolution into a top provider of licensed clinical psychologists in the U.S. Since 2015, Alliant has honed its mission, emphasizing global thinking, diversity, and the innovative use of technology to advance higher education.Uncover the secrets behind th...2024-11-1230 minThe Rant PodcastDesigning a University for Working LearnersSend us a textWhat if the future of higher education doesn't lie in reinventing the wheel, but in reimagining who the wheel serves? Join me for an insightful conversation with Dr. Lisa Vollendorf, president of Empire State University, where we tackle this compelling question head-on. As a trailblazer in the SUNY system, Dr. Vollendorf shares how Empire State is setting new standards for online education, creating a flexible and inclusive learning environment for students aged 15 to 80. We shed light on the university's transformative journey from its 1971 inception to its current role as a leader in online...2024-10-2934 minThe Rant PodcastCollege Programs That Pay with Michael ItzkowitzSend us a textCan higher education be the key to economic mobility for low and moderate-income learners in California? In our latest episode, we welcome back Michael Itzkowitz from the HEA Group to delve into this pressing question. Uncover the surprising findings of his latest report with the College Futures Foundation, "California Programs that Pay: Measuring Return on Investment Across Majors and Credentials." Discover how an impressive 88% of college programs in California allow students to recoup their educational expenses within just five years, with a significant portion achieving this feat in only one year. Michael shares...2024-10-1524 min
The Higher Ed Geek PodcastEpisode #250: Rebuilding Trust in Higher Ed's ValueThis week, Dustin is joined by Eloy Ortiz Oakley, President and CEO of the College Futures Foundation, host of The Rant podcast, and former Chancellor of California Community Colleges. Eloy shares his perspective on the shifting landscape of higher education as it evolves beyond focusing solely on access and completion. Eloy shares his insights on the critical need to rethink higher ed’s role in driving economic mobility, especially for underserved students. He also dives into how higher education can create more opportunities for more students to achieve real-world outcomes in a skills-based economy. Finally, Eloy offers practical advice fo...2024-10-0237 minThe Rant PodcastReimagining Teacher Education with Dr. Mallory PalishSend us a textDiscover a groundbreaking approach to teacher education as Dr. Mallory Palish, former chancellor of REACH University and CEO of Craft Education, unveils her innovative solutions to the pressing challenges in academia. This episode promises to enlighten listeners on how REACH University’s apprenticeship model is bridging the gap between higher education and the teacher labor market. Learn how this model enables future educators to earn their degrees through a combination of evening and weekend Zoom classes and practical on-the-job experience, all while minimizing student loan debt.Gain insights into how REACH Un...2024-10-0135 minThe Rant PodcastReforming Prison Education with Scott BudnickSend us a textHollywood film producer Scott Budnick, known for blockbusters like the Hangover Trilogy and Just Mercy, shares his journey from making hits to transforming lives through prison reform. What triggered a successful Hollywood producer to dedicate his life to mentoring incarcerated youth? Scott reveals the heart-wrenching encounters that steered him down this path and how his collaborations, including introducing Kim Kardashian to prison reform, have amplified his impact.Education can change lives, even behind bars. Listen as Scott recounts his experiences teaching and mentoring in maximum-security prisons and the dramatic improvements they’ve...2024-09-1731 minThe Rant PodcastReforming Prison Education with Scott BudnickSend us a textHollywood film producer Scott Budnick, known for blockbusters like the Hangover Trilogy and Just Mercy, shares his journey from making hits to transforming lives through prison reform. What triggered a successful Hollywood producer to dedicate his life to mentoring incarcerated youth? Scott reveals the heart-wrenching encounters that steered him down this path and how his collaborations, including introducing Kim Kardashian to prison reform, have amplified his impact.Education can change lives, even behind bars. Listen as Scott recounts his experiences teaching and mentoring in maximum-security prisons and the dramatic improvements they’ve...2024-09-1730 minThe Rant PodcastSupporting Student Success and Overcoming Setbacks with Tim StoreySend us a textWhat if setbacks could actually fuel your success? This week on The Rant Podcast, we kick off season three with the extraordinary Tim Storey, a global thought leader and life strategist known for his transformative impact. We unravel the complexities of the mental health crisis in higher education and provide valuable insights for college students navigating obstacles. Tim underscores the significance of community and partnership, warning against the pitfalls of isolation. Plus, we explore how educators can foster mutual growth by sharing their experiences and creating a collaborative learning environment.Ever...2024-09-0335 min
Let’s Hear ItEloy Ortiz Oakley of the College Futures Foundation on the Power of Community CollegesHey folks, we’re back after a quick summer break. Hope you missed us!
As many parents pack their kids off to college this month, it’s important to remember that almost two out of five college students in the U.S. attends a community college. These are students who are often working full time, caring for family members, or going back to school to learn new skills. Oh, and another thing, community colleges don’t brag about how “selective” they are – all are welcome.
Our guest on this episode of Let’s Hear It is Eloy Ortiz...2024-09-0357 minThe Rant PodcastInsights on Leadership and Innovation from Paul LeBlancSend us a textWhat does it take to lead a university through two decades of transformative change? Join us as Paul LeBlanc, the former president of Southern New Hampshire University, unpacks his remarkable 21-year tenure. Recorded at the ASU GSV Summit in San Diego, Paul opens up about his decision to step down, the growth of SNHU under his leadership, and his vision for the future. You'll learn why timing and leaving an institution in a robust position are crucial for any leader considering a transition. Paul's reflections offer invaluable insights for anyone interested in the...2024-07-0231 minThe Rant PodcastExploring AI and Cloud in Higher Education with Laura Ipsen, CEO of EllucianSend us a textWhat if the future of higher education is already here, driven by cutting-edge technology and strategic innovation? In this episode, we sit down with Laura Ipsen, CEO of Ellucian, live from the bustling ASU+GSV Summit in San Diego. Laura provides a front-row seat to the pivotal conversations reshaping higher education. From the integration of AI to enhance learning outcomes and streamline administrative tasks to the importance of digital transformation, community interaction, and workforce development, we cover it all. Laura also sheds light on how Ellucian's agile approach supports institutions worldwide and their...2024-06-1823 minThe Rant PodcastTalking Innovation in Higher Education with Michael Crow, President of ASUSend us a textPrepare to unlock the future of higher education as we sit down with Dr. Michael Crow, President of Arizona State University, at the 14th ASU+GSV Summit. Discover how pioneering technologies, especially artificial intelligence, are revolutionizing the learning landscape. With two decades at the helm of ASU, Dr. Crow shares his insights on democratizing education and using tech to expand classroom boundaries. Whether you're an educator, student, or tech enthusiast, this conversation is packed with transformative ideas and forward-thinking strategies.Ever wondered why our higher education system feels out of sync...2024-06-0436 minThe Rant PodcastMeasuring Value in California Higher Education with Michael Itzkowitz, HEA GroupSend us a textGet behind the data and value of higher education as I engage in a focused conversation with Michael Itzkowitz of the HEA Group. Together, we dissect the College Futures Foundation commissioned "Golden Opportunities" report, delving into the intricacies of California's higher education investments and what they mean for students from low-to-moderate-income economic backgrounds. You'll emerge from this episode with a nuanced understanding of how data is revolutionizing both the transparency and the economic success rates of colleges and universities, offering essential guidance for students charting their academic futures.The staggering $1.8 trillion...2024-05-2142 min