Episodes

  • Implementing AI in Higher Education Step 2
    Jul 4 2025

    In this conversation, Joe and Freddie discuss the latest news in AI, including the increasing use of AI in higher education and the release of a new open-source language model by Google. They emphasize the importance of colleges and universities developing a framework and governance structure for AI implementation. The next major milestone for institutions is to leverage their data as the foundation for AI applications. They also discuss the role of IT departments in leading AI initiatives and the need for executive sponsorship and collaboration across functional areas.

    For more information, visit us at www.beyondacademics.com/

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    12 mins
  • Is there malpractice taking place in higher education?
    Jun 30 2025

    In this episode, Matt Alex discusses the concept of malpractice in the context of failed technology implementations in schools. He argues that there is a lack of accountability and responsibility in decision-making, leading to wasted resources and negative impacts on campuses. The word malpractice is used to highlight the need for someone to be held accountable for these failures. Matt identifies overconfidence, personal accolades, and being enamored with vendors as reasons for these failures. He emphasizes the importance of objective insight, proper planning, and understanding outcomes to avoid malpractice.

    For more information, visit us at www.beyondacademics.com/

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    14 mins
  • Are you hiring the wrong consultant?
    Jun 30 2025

    The conversation discusses the difference between consulting and contracting in higher education. It highlights the misconception that consulting is simply paying a vendor to do something, when in reality, consulting is something very different. The goal is to redefine the term consulting and prioritize the right resourcing for different tasks.

    For more information, visit us at www.beyondacademics.com/

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    10 mins
  • AI In The Workplace
    Jun 27 2025

    In this conversation, Fred and Joe discuss recent AI news, including Google's language models for education and Anthology's AI policy framework. They then invite Ro, who leads project management at Beyond, to discuss practical applications of AI in project management. Ro explains how he uses ChatGPT to streamline project planning and management, and emphasizes the importance of viewing AI as a coworker. They also mention the potential for a workshop to explore AI tools further. The conversation concludes with a reminder of the rapid pace of AI development and the importance of having policies and risk management in place.

    For more information, visit us at www.beyondacademics.com/

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    12 mins
  • Is Transformation Really What You Think It Is?
    Jun 23 2025

    In this conversation, Joe and Matt discuss the difference between transactional and transformational approaches in higher education. They focus on the misuse of the term 'transformation' and how it is often used to describe transactional activities. They emphasize the need for strategic thinking and reimagining the student experience when implementing technology. They also highlight the importance of using technology to personalize interactions with students and improve outcomes.

    For more information, visit us at www.beyondacademics.com/

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    10 mins
  • Starting an AI Discussion for Higher Education
    Jun 20 2025

    In this episode, Joe and Fred discuss the impact of AI on higher education and the need for IT departments to educate themselves and take a leadership role in the adoption of AI. They highlight the rapid growth of AI in as seen in consulting orgs, and the importance of building a community and staying current with AI developments. They also start to explore the potential use cases of AI in higher education.

    For more information, visit us at www.beyondacademics.com/

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    11 mins
  • The Urgent Need For Diverse Thinking
    Jun 16 2025

    The conversation explores the lack of leadership diversity and fresh perspectives in higher education, leading to a resistance to change and innovation. Matt emphasizes the importance of bringing in outside perspectives and encouraging movement and change within leadership roles. Joe gives some insight into how entrepreneurial DNA plays into the protection of status quo in higher ed.

    For more information, visit us at www.beyondacademics.com/

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    10 mins
  • Talking Technology Transformation
    Jun 13 2025

    In this conversation, Joe introduces a new series called 'Fridays with Freddie' where he invites Fred to discuss topics related to higher education technology. Fred shares his background in the higher education technology space and highlights some major trends that presidents and CIOs should have top of mind. These trends include the convergence of exponential technologies like AI and blockchain, the rise of micro-credentials, the importance of data governance as an enabler, and the changing role of IT departments in higher education.

    The conversation aims to provoke thought and encourage leaders to consider these topics in their strategic planning.

    For more information, visit us at www.beyondacademics.com/

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    15 mins