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.