Shows
Changing Lives Through Education AbroadStrategic Travel for International Educators: Perfecting the Art of the Site Visit (feat. Ehren Kuzekov)What happens when a site visit becomes the catalyst for strategic innovation? In this episode, Ehren Kuzekov, Director of Study Abroad at Grand Valley State University (GVSU), shares how GVSU is reimagining access through strategic cohort programs in Spain, Costa Rica, and South Korea. Ehren reflects on the 2024 Group Site Visit experience lead by WorldStrides and the collaborative campus work that followed. From student support programs to GVSU’s study abroad mascot “Wander,” this episode explores how intentional design and on-the-ground insight can drive powerful transformation.
2025-05-0632 minChanging Lives Through Education AbroadViva España: Why Spain is a More Popular Study Abroad Destination Than Ever (feat. WorldStrides Higher Ed Spain Staff)In the season 5 premiere of Changing Lives Through Education Abroad, join host Zac Macinnes for a vibrant discussion on why Spain is more popular than ever for U.S. study abroad students. Zac welcomes three seasoned experts from WorldStrides Higher Ed Spain—Pedro Pérez Polo (Sevilla), Genoveva García Gallardo (Bilbao), and Cristina Canales Contador (Barcelona)—to discuss the history of study abroad in Spain, contemporary trends, and where it's going. Hear from experienced staff on best practices for supporting students on-site, promoting cultural immersion, and advancing personal growth. Tune in and be inspired!
2025-01-1444 minChanging Lives Through Education AbroadWhere’s the T: Empowering Transgender Students to Study Abroad (feat. Ash Trebisacci)At WorldStrides, we have a dream of study abroad for all. This week, Ash Trebisacci, Assistant Director of Study Abroad at Brandeis University, joins host Zac Macinnes for an empowering conversation around supporting trans-identifying students and colleagues in international education. Hear Ash’s insights on their personal journey, finding community, and how to support the intersection of safety and identity while leaving room for joy. This rich dialogue explores practicalities with a focus on inclusive language, practices, advising and spaces – with takeaways for any office.
2024-10-2245 minChanging Lives Through Education AbroadFuture Ready: Academic Alignment & Delivery to Maximize Student Success in Study Abroad (feat. Elizabeth Erbeznik, Ph.D.)Welcome back! This week, Host Zac Macinnes is joined by Dr. Elizabeth Erbeznik, Senior Associate Vice President of Curriculum & Academics, for an insightful conversation centered on how academic excellence in education abroad can support future-ready learners. This episode will emphasize the critical nature of location-based learning, strong co-curricular experiences and benefits of portfolio refinement. Tune in to hear Elizabeth’s pro-tips to support student success, with actionable takeaways for study abroad practitioners to meet the goals of their office.
2024-08-1340 minChanging Lives Through Education AbroadLessons in Leadership, Life & Resilience with NAFSA's Fanta Aw, Ph.D.NAFSA is our guiding light, the driver of our professional development, our venue to be of service and lead, a point of connection, reflection, and advocacy – and so much more. This week, host Zac Macinnes has the honor of joining Executive Director and CEO of NAFSA, Dr. Fanta Aw, for a compelling conversation that touches on the essential nature of international education, intentional leadership, and the impact of NAFSA as an organization. Get to know Dr. Aw as she shares her take on the evolving DEI landscape, the state of higher ed, and the interconnected nature of our world and...2024-05-2343 minChanging Lives Through Education AbroadDeep Roots & Long Branches: Designing a Career in Education Abroad to Thrive for the Long Term (feat. Jennifer Fritz)They say it’s about the journey and not the destination. Join host Zac Macinnes as he sits down with Jennifer Fritz, Associate Director of the Office of Global and Off-Campus Study, at Bucknell University for an inspiring dialogue around how to find your unique voice and use it to engage meaningfully with our field. Hear Jennifer’s thoughts on how to stay dynamic and feel fulfilled without the need to change roles, tips on how to get involved as a leader from any level in your current career, and advice on the critical nature of mentorship. We can care...2024-05-2042 minChanging Lives Through Education AbroadStudy Abroad & Artificial Intelligence: Meaningful Background For Transformative Practices (feat. Joseph Meringolo)Ready or not, artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming more present in our daily lives and work. This week, host Zac Macinnes is joined by Joseph Meringolo, Assistant Director of Study Abroad at Salve Regina University, for a timely and hyper-relevant conversation on understanding and leveraging AI. Learn how strategically using tools like ChatGPT can maximize our time and professional expertise so we are efficient while preserving a human touch.
2024-05-1444 minChanging Lives Through Education AbroadGrowth Mindset: Innovative Ways to Scale Study Abroad (feat. Autumn Beechler Stebing)International education is nothing if not dynamic, and we as professionals can do our best work with the farthest reach when we are innovative in our approach. This week, host Zac Macinnes is joined by Autumn Beechler Stebing, Director of Education Abroad at Case Western Reserve University, for a conversation examining ways to make an impact at a level that scales. This episode touches on navigating STEM-related challenges, intentional collaboration and progressive leadership – don’t miss it!
2024-05-0740 minChanging Lives Through Education AbroadSea Change: A Critical Conversation About Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion within International Education (feat. Ogonna Owu Jones)Diversifying our field can help to diversify the students who participate in education abroad, an outcome that is front of mind in 2024 and beyond. Join host Zac Macinnes as he sits down with Ogonna Owu Jones, Faculty-Led Program Coordinator at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, for an insightful dialogue centered on interrupting injustice and prioritizing equity. Hear Ogonna’s recommendations for just hiring practices to ensure there is representation across an organization and building pathways for student success.
2024-04-3044 minChanging Lives Through Education AbroadEmbracing Other Duties as Assigned: The Road to Leadership in Education Abroad (feat. Whitney Longnecker)"Looking to level up in your career? This week, Host Zac Macinnes sits down with Whitney Longnecker, Director of Study Abroad at Texas Tech University, for a discussion of how to position yourself to step into leadership in international education. Whitney shares advice for how to proactively seek progressive growth opportunities, cultivate your confidence and take a thoughtful approach to management. Learn how to steer your career trajectory through mentorship and getting involved in the field – this episode has tips for folks at any stage of their professional journey.
2024-04-2343 minChanging Lives Through Education AbroadAge Diversity: Navigating the Multi-Generational International Education Workplace (feat. Jeannie Simmons & Ryan Vonderhaar)International Education is a dynamic field strengthened by its mix of fresh faces and seasoned practitioners. Join Host Zac Macinnes for a fun and thought-provoking conversation about navigating a multi-generational office with Jeannie Simmons, Director of Global Education, and Ryan Vonderhaar, Global Education Coordinator, both from THE Ohio State University. This dialogue explores takeaways to benefit any intergenerational space, from overcoming stereotypes and biases to maximizing the contributions of a team through relationship building and effective communication. With respect and an open mind there is room for innovation and excellence – you do not want to miss this episode!
2024-04-1647 minChanging Lives Through Education AbroadThe U.S. Department of State’s IDEAS (Increase and Diversify Education Abroad for U.S. Students) Program: What You Need to Know (feat. Rachel Rice)Seeking a way to build capacity for education abroad? Look no further than this episode, focused on the IDEAS Program’s goals to diversify expand and broaden study abroad through the administration of small grants and the implementation of capacity building initiatives for the U.S. higher education community. Join host Zac Macinnes and Rachel Rice, Program Manager at World Learning and expert on the IDEAS Program, for an inspiring conversation on how you can pursue an opportunity to secure funds to creatively advance international initiatives on your own campus. Even a small grant can bring big change to ou...2024-04-0929 min
Classroom Dynamics: A Teacher PodcastSTEM SERIES PART 2: From Classroom to Career: Envisioning Success in STEM with Real-World Experiences & Envision by WorldstridesSTEM SERIES PART 2 In today's episode, get ready to be enthralled by the possibilities that the National Youth Leadership Forum: Pathways to STEM, powered by Envision by WorldStrides, opens up for students.In a world where education extends beyond textbooks, this program stands out for its transformative experiences designed to inspire the scientists, engineers, and innovators of tomorrow. As we navigate the monumental changes in STEM, especially with the emergence of artificial intelligence, this initiative emerges as a beacon of educational innovation.What makes this program unique? It goes beyond the conventional with i...2024-04-0941 minChanging Lives Through Education AbroadFriends Not Foes: Advancing Campus Internationalization Through True Faculty Partnership (feat. Patricia Sagasti Suppes, Ph.D.)It takes a village to do what we do. Yet, as practitioners we often don’t truly consider the faculty perspective when it comes to international education. Join Host Zac Macinnes and Dr. Patricia Sagasti Suppes, Director of Global Engagement and Senior International Officer at Stockton University, for a deep dive into intentional collaboration with our faculty friends. Patty unpacks what faculty face with competing priorities, obligations outside of the classroom, and their motivations to lead a travel course. Listeners will leave this episode with advice on how to effectively engage with faculty as partners in advancing education abroad on...2024-04-0236 minChanging Lives Through Education AbroadShow Me the Money: The Evolving Landscape of Study Abroad Funding & Financial Aid (feat. Ebony Majeed)Supporting students as they prepare for study abroad includes navigating financial considerations. This week, host Zac Macinnes sits down with Ebony Majeed, Director of International Students, Scholars and Programs at Hampton University, for a discussion of the complexities and opportunities of funding study abroad in 2024. Hear Ebony’s pro-tips for outreach strategies related to diverse communities, partnering with financial aid and scholarship offices, and debunking common misconceptions. This dialogue also includes a look at identity and global study through an HBCU lens, with takeaways for all listeners to advance access on their campus.
2024-03-2644 minChanging Lives Through Education AbroadPurpose & Community: Strategies for Combatting Burnout in International Education (feat. Caylie Middleton)International educators have some of the most meaningful and uplifting jobs, yet burnout exists in our field as it does anywhere. Join host Zac Macinnes as he sits down with Caylie Middleton, Assistant Director of Education Abroad at the University of Vermont, for a thoughtful dialogue about taking care of ourselves and our communities. Learn Caylie’s pro-tips to manage well, advance change despite obstacles, and appreciate how our jobs provide us with a knowledge set that we can use for a thriving and purposeful career.
2024-03-1941 minChanging Lives Through Education AbroadFirst-Year Abroad: Promoting Intercultural Agility & Leadership Skills in Students (feat. Jill Blondin, Ph.D., & Jon Stauff, Ph.D.)In a landscape where we already recognize study abroad as a high impact practice, First Year Abroad Programs are emergent as an example of how intentional initiatives can be pivotal in an institutions’ global learning goals for students. Join host Zac Macinnes for a conversation with Dr. Jon Stauff, Assistant Vice President for International Affairs at South Dakota State University, and Dr. Jill Blondin, Associate Vice Provost for Global Initiatives at Virginia Commonwealth University, centered around the impacts of first year abroad programming on enrollment in relevant coursework, leadership development, and the growth of culturally agile individuals poised to af...2024-03-1242 minChanging Lives Through Education AbroadA Roadmap to Early Career Success in International Education (feat. Grace Twardy)As an early to mid-career professional in international education, it’s essential to effectively leverage your experiences to develop leadership skills and create avenues for growth. Join host Zac Macinnes as he sits down with Grace Twardy, Senior Manager of University Relations and Program Development at Boston University, for a conversation about lifelong learning and how to advance your career. Hear Grace’s pro tips to combat imposter syndrome, build community, and actively seek opportunities to level up. You do not want to miss this episode!
2024-03-0538 minChanging Lives Through Education AbroadEmpowering Students with Disabilities to Study Abroad (feat. Sara Easler, Ph.D.)When we think about meeting the needs of today’s students, accessibility is front of mind. Join host Zac Macinnes as he sits down with Sara Easler, Ph.D., Assistant Dean of International Programs & Partnerships in the Haslam College of Business at the University of Tennessee, for a critical conversation centered on supporting students with disabilities who seek to study abroad. We’ll touch on accommodations, disclosure, visible vs. invisible needs, and our responsibilities to ensure that our programs are within reach of all students. Tune in to learn more about resources you can use right away to champion acce...2024-02-2749 minChanging Lives Through Education AbroadNew Approaches to International Education Leadership (feat. Larry Pickener)Join host Zac Macinnes and guest Larry Pickener, Director of Global Education at Boston College, for an insightful conversation on leadership as it looks in 2024. This thoughtful dialogue explores how we can successfully navigate structural changes, be strategic about interpersonal and goal-oriented growth, and inspire and uplift our teams. We’ll also touch on generational influences as Larry shares pro tips for new managers.
2024-02-2045 minChanging Lives Through Education AbroadReal Talk and Tik Tok: Reaching Gen Z Students with AuthenticityReaching our students is an ever-moving target. This week Zac Macinnes sits down with Snow White, Senior Regional Director at WorldStrides, for a fun and enlightening conversation about effectively connecting with Gen Z. Join us to learn more about exploring trends, maximizing your resources, and telling stories effectively to best resonate with the students of today. You do not want to miss this episode!
2024-02-1344 minChanging Lives Through Education AbroadNavigating Scholarships & Reducing Financial Barriers to Education Abroad (feat. Angela Schaffer)When we consider the student pathway to study abroad, funding is often uniquely pivotal in that journey. Join host Zac Macinnes as he sits down with Angela Shaffer, Executive Director of the Fund for Education Abroad, to unpack how this fully philanthropic and independent organization removes financial barriers for students. This thoughtful dialogue also touches on thinking holistically about student needs, implementing inclusive best practices, and how the field is evolving in terms of closing the access gap.
2024-02-0645 minChanging Lives Through Education AbroadExploring the Impact of International Internships (feat. Dr. Jeffrey Ayres)This week, Jeffrey Ayres Ph.D., Director of the Center for Global Engagement and Senior International Officer at Saint Michael’s College, joins host Zac Macinnes for a conversation centered on the importance of internships abroad. This episode will highlight the transformative power of combining academic pursuits with a globally oriented, career enhancing program. In addition to student stories and successes, Jeff shares how securing funding can pave the way for these types of experiences and insights on geographic trends.
2024-01-3042 minChanging Lives Through Education AbroadUndergraduate Research Abroad: A High Impact Practice (feat. Andrew Wingfield)Research can enhance an experience abroad and provide new lenses for academic and professional exploration. Join Zac Macinnes for a thoughtful conversation with Andrew Wingfield, Director of Global Engagement in the College of Engineering & Applied Science at the University of Colorado Boulder, centered on providing avenues for student learning beyond traditional study abroad, easing onramps for participation and bridging gaps between diverse constituencies and systems.
2024-01-2346 minChanging Lives Through Education AbroadUnderstanding Psychological Safety & Why it Matters for International Education Teams (ft. Amy Ewen, Ed.D.)This week, we examine how teams can be most effective and poised for innovation when psychological safety is a priority for leaders who instill it as part of institutional culture. Join Zac Macinnes for a thoughtful and inspiring conversation with Dr. Amy Ewen, Director of International Education and Study Away at Suffolk University focused on how feeling safe in a workplace with a trust filled environment can position us for achieve our full potential.
2024-01-1635 minChanging Lives Through Education AbroadSafety Net: Navigating Risk, Wellness and the Needs of Study Abroad Student in 2024 (feat. Robin Reliford)As international educators, the wellbeing of our students is always a top priority. Join Zac Macinnes as he sits down with Robin Reliford, J.D., Head of Health & Safety at WorldStrides for a thoughtful conversation that touches on mental wellness, trends, and the intersection of student safety and DEI. This critical dialogue explores our approach as an organization to keeping students as safe as possible and shares resources and takeaways for offices of all sizes.
2024-01-0935 minChanging Lives Through Education AbroadGender Gap: A Critical Conversation on the Missing Men in Study Abroad (feat. Brian Henry)Male-identifying students represent just about one-third of study abroad students. In this episode, Brian Henry, an experienced J.E.D.I. facilitator and Program Manager in the Office of International Education at the University Denver, joins host Zac Macinnes to explore why it’s been so challenging to move the needle. Brian shares valuable insights about the importance of bridging the gender gap, advice on reaching today’s male students, and strategies all practitioners can utilize to advance inclusivity in our programs and practices.
2023-12-1941 minChanging Lives Through Education AbroadInnovation through Information: Data-Driven Leadership in Education Abroad (feat. Mark Eckman)This week, we examine the field of international education through the lens of data-driven leadership with takeaways for offices of all sizes and experience levels. Host Zac Macinnes sits down with Mark Eckman, Director of Education Abroad at UMass Amherst, to explore how practitioners can leverage data as a critical means to excellence in our work for securing funding, advocating for professional development, advancing equity, justifying staffing, and more.
2023-12-1233 minChanging Lives Through Education AbroadAgainst the Odds: Scaling STEM Study Abroad (feat. Susi Rachouh)As international educators, we hold the belief that study abroad can be for all students. But for those with heavily structured majors, like STEM, fulfilling requirements abroad can present additional challenges. Join host Zac Macinnes for an empowering conversation with Susi Rachouh, Director of International Programs at Stevens Institute of Technology, around scaling STEM study abroad. Being strategic in recruitment, partnership, advising, and support can help to create pathways for all students’ study abroad journeys!
2023-12-0530 minChanging Lives Through Education AbroadOn the Up and Up: The State of Faculty-Led Study Abroad in 2024 (feat. Morgan Inabinet)In this episode, we explore the dynamic landscape of faculty-led travel, focusing on the trends, innovations, and challenges of these transformative experiences. Join host Zac Macinnes for a timely conversation with Morgan Inabinet, Director of Education Abroad at the University of South Carolina, centered on faculty support and other best practices in the authorship and execution of exemplary short-term programs abroad.
2023-11-2941 minChanging Lives Through Education AbroadFrom Beethoven to Britney: Pop Culture Influences on Study Abroad (feat. Kyle Rausch, Ed.D.)The things that bring us together can also help support students in reaching their education abroad goals! Join host Zac Macinnes for what may be our most fun episode yet: a conversation on the power of pop culture with scholar-practitioner Dr. Kyle Rausch, Executive Director of the Study Abroad Office at the University of Illinois Chicago. This riveting dialogue centers on what’s trending, what’s iconic, and how pop culture can be used as an educational tool to promote cross-cultural understanding and global awareness for college students. You do not want to miss this episode!
2023-11-1337 minChanging Lives Through Education AbroadUnderstanding Fulbright International Education Administrators Seminars and The Art of the Site Visit (feat. Elizabeth Strong, MBA)Join host Zac Macinnes for an inspiring conversation with Elizabeth Strong, Director of the Office of Education Abroad at Missouri State University, as we delve into how emergent leaders can take full advantage of opportunities in our field. Discover the importance of site visits, the value of Fulbright International Education Administrators Seminars, and insights into professional development and mentorship in the field. Don't miss this episode featuring one of the STRONGest leaders in international education!
2023-11-0737 minChanging Lives Through Education AbroadContributing to Study Abroad Participant and Program Diversity: How Leaders and All Practitioners Can Build a Talent Pipeline (feat. Carolina Robinson, Ph.D.)Join host Zac Macinnes and Carolina Robinson, Ph.D., Director of Education Abroad at the University of Alabama, for a vital discussion around how international educators can advance a dream we all share: making study abroad programs more reflective of U.S. higher education as a whole. Carolina shares tips, tricks, and best practices to ensure students see themselves represented by international education staff and leaders, such as utilizing intentional staffing practices, combating biases in the hiring process, and building diverse advising teams.
2023-10-3145 min
Lion LegacyJeff Coppola, Executive - WorldStrides (#59)1982 Penn State graduate Jeff Coppola is all about journeys. From his current company, WorldStrides, that focuses on experiential trips for students, to his own professional journey through numerous industries, to his family's personal journey with autism, this episode has great nuggets on leadership and career insights. (5:25) - Getting to know Worldstrides(13:38) - Role at Worldstrides(18:58) - Putting the focus on the customer(22:45) - Early career lessons(27:33) - Transferable skills across industries (31:08) - Experiencing challenges(34:22) - Board Member for the Virginia Institute for Autism(39:08...2023-10-2653 minChanging Lives Through Education AbroadEmpowering First-Generation Students to Study Abroad (feat. Maggie Mahoney, Ed.D.)Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation between host Zac Macinnes and Maggie Mahoney, Ed.D., Director of Global Engagement at the University of Houston, that centers around the unique challenges faced by trailblazing first-generation students. Explore the importance of providing meaningful global opportunities to every student and the transformative power of diversity in education abroad, as modeled by the inspiring work done at UH.
2023-10-2442 minChanging Lives Through Education AbroadStudy Abroad for All: Moving Beyond Deficit Narratives to Uplift Historically Marginalized Students (feat. Malaika Marable Serrano, Ph.D.)As international educators, we share the dream of study abroad for all. But how do we get there? Join host Zac Macinnes for an invigorating discourse with the razor-sharp Malaika Marable Serrano, Ph.D., Vice President of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging at Guild Education. Malaika details her advice on recognizing and celebrating the assets historically marginalized students bring to the table—and how we, as practitioners, can support students in leveraging their individual strengths to enhance success, improve outcomes, and increase participation in education abroad.
2023-10-1733 minChanging Lives Through Education AbroadFostering Global Leaders: Lessons in Entrepreneurship, Mentorship & Connection (feat. Cynthia Banks)Join host Zac Macinnes for an inspiring and thoughtful discussion with Cynthia Banks. The seasoned entrepreneur and passionate international education leader shares her thoughts on how practitioners can grow in their careers, lead from any level, and build a community of champions. The Global Leadership League co-founder unpacks the many resources available to members and relays her advice on how to make the most of low-cost professional development opportunities.
2023-10-1034 minChanging Lives Through Education AbroadKarin Fischer on the Next Big Thing in International EducationThis week, Zac Macinnes hosts a thought-provoking conversation with the one and only Karin Fischer. Tune in as we get to know the long-time international reporter for the Chronicle of Higher Education. Karin shares what it’s like to be a journalist in our field, her thoughts on big-picture issues impacting our work today, and her predictions about where international education could be heading next.
2023-10-0336 minChanging Lives Through Education AbroadMaking the Forum on Education Abroad Standards of Good Practice Work for You (feat. Emily Gorlewski, Ed.D.)A leading authority in international education, the Forum on Education Abroad maintains, updates, and shares the Standards of Good Practice for Education Abroad. This week, we explore the history and nuances of the Standards—and how international educators can leverage them in daily work. Join host Zac Macinnes for a peek behind the curtain with Emily Gorlewski, Ed.D., Director of Study Abroad at Wesleyan University and Elected Council Member at the Forum, about the Standards’ 6th Edition, released in 2020 and updated in Summer 2023.
2023-09-2629 minChanging Lives Through Education AbroadHBCUs and Education Abroad: Amplifying a Story with Lessons for All International Educators (feat. Keshia Abraham, Ph.D.)There are over 100 Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in the United States, many of which have been actively engaged in study abroad for decades. This week, host Zac Macinnes is joined by Keshia Abraham, Ph.D., president of the Abraham Consulting Agency, to discuss the innovative contributions made by HBCUs to create global experiences for students and the impact that has on future generations, sharing stories and takeaways for all practitioners.
2023-09-1950 min