HigherEdJobs Podcast

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 workplaces.

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 culture, and tips for staying confident during the search process. He encourages candidates to take their shot and stay open to unexpected outcomes, even when the odds feel uncertain.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. 

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 mentors to knowing when to say yes (and when to say no). She also offers insight into how institutions can create more equitable leadership pathways.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.

In this discussion, Dr. Alicia Grandey, a distinguished arts professor at Penn State and co-author of 'Emotionally Charged,' delves into emotional labor within higher education. She uncovers how constant emotional regulation can lead to burnout and compassion fatigue among educators. Listeners learn about practical frameworks for managing emotional strain, the importance of emotional awareness, and strategies for establishing healthier boundaries. Dr. Grandey even introduces the 'brave' and 'DARE' methods for fostering resilience in high-pressure work environments.

Gretchen Bataille, a seasoned higher education leader and former president of the University of North Texas, shares invaluable insights on shifting from a doer to a leader. She discusses the importance of delegation and building trust within teams to combat micromanagement. Gretchen emphasizes the need for leaders to prioritize effectively in a heavy workload environment, fostering collaboration and open communication. She highlights the significance of active engagement, urging leaders to tackle critical issues head-on while empowering their teams.

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 Careers interview. 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. 

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 the Expert? Send it to us, and you might hear it discussed on the HigherEdJobs podcast.

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 your ideas, and you might hear them discussed on the HigherEdJobs podcast. 

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.

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 podcast@higheredjobs.com with your suggestions and why you think they belong on the playlist!