In our latest episode, host Zac Macinnes is joined by Marnie Nelson, the Director of Global Experiences at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln for a discussion on how, in the realm of international education, the pursuit of joy might seem secondary to compliance and risk management. However, as Marnie reveals in her insightful conversation, fostering joy is essential for transformative study abroad experiences. Tune in as we explore how educators can integrate joy into the study abroad journey, ensuring that students not only learn academically but also grow personally.

In our latest podcast episode, host Zac Macinnes is joined by Dr. Chrissie Faupel, Director of International Affairs at the University of Minnesota Duluth for an honest, thoughtful conversation about navigating nonlinear career paths, preparing for leadership without a title, and building confidence through mentorship and community. Chrissie shares insights from her own journey from advising students to shaping institutional strategy, and reflects on what it means to lead with intention and authenticity as a woman in higher education.

Join us for a conversation with our very own Beth Price, Senior Vice President of Student Engagement. We'll explore what it truly means to be student‑first in today’s rapidly evolving global environment. Beth shares how WorldStrides approaches student engagement throughout the entire student journey from the first touchpoint to Global Ambassador. We dive into shifting student behaviors, the importance of community building, and how intentional and personalized engagement helps students feel supported.

From political uncertainty and rapidly shifting national priorities to new global realities reshaping the field, it matters now more than ever that we have strong, ethical, and confident leaders at the forefront of international education. On this episode of the podcast, we chat with Clare Overmann, the CEO of the Association of International Education Administrators (AIEA), about why community and convening resources are essential, how AIEA advances good practices and shared values, and explore what leadership looks like today. Plus, we get a special sneak peek of next week's AIEA Annual Conference in Washington D.C.!

On our latest podcast episode, host Zac Macinnes sits down with Blair Thomson, the Senior International Officer and Director of Study Abroad at the University of Mississippi. Blair harnesses her nearly two decades of experience shaping global learning at Ole Miss in our conversation about how best to encourage institutions to better understand the importance of investing in international education. Together we explore how to turn data into stories that resonate, align global engagement with broader campus priorities, and empower faculty and staff to become better advocates for studying abroad.

Host Zac Macinnes is joined by Meisha Swaby, Director of Faculty-Led Programming at Northeastern University, to explore how intentional design and structured faculty training can elevate faculty-led programs. Meisha breaks down Northeastern’s workshop model, the evolving needs of today’s students, and practical strategies for cohort building, student support, and cross-campus collaboration. If you're looking to strengthen faculty preparation and create more impactful, sustainable programs abroad, this episode offers clear guidance and fresh inspiration. Tune in for a smart, energizing conversation on designing faculty-led programs with purpose.

As we celebrate International Education Week, we’re reflecting on what it means to be true stewards of internationalization. In this episode, we’re joined by Kara Pike Inman, Director of Education Abroad at the University of North Carolina Wilmington, to explore their innovative programs empowering campus partners to engage with global education firsthand. From staff travel grants to the Study Abroad for Faculty and Staff program, Kara shares how intentional travel experiences can build lasting buy-in, inspire cross-campus collaboration, and create on-campus champions of international education. Tune in to learn practical strategies for creating a campus culture that truly embraces global engagement.

In this uplifting and much-needed conversation, host Zac Macinnes sits down with Aimee Jones, Director of Education Abroad at Colorado State University, to explore what it truly means to sustain health, balance, and joy in the mission-driven world of international education. Together, Zac and Aimee unpack how leaders can model well-being for their teams, why small acts of recognition matter, and how we can all create cultures of psychological safety, creativity, and belonging - especially in an era of remote and hybrid work. Whether you’re a campus-based practitioner, a leader navigating change, or someone who simply wants to feel more grounded in your purpose, this conversation offers an honest and hopeful look at how to “hold joy” while doing the work that changes lives.