In this episode Richard Godsmark joins us to reflect on his career across Canadian colleges, Canadian universities, and now the Australian higher education system. He compares how governance, funding models, culture, and decision‑making differ across these environments, offering a rare cross‑border view of how higher ed systems actually function. From committee‑driven universities to policy‑driven colleges to Australia’s nationally unified model, Richard highlights how these structures shape leadership, pace of change, and the role of IT. We also explore his shift from Deputy CIO to Strategic Advisor for Digital Innovation at Sheridan, where he focused on long‑term thinking, institutional differentiation, and revenue diversification. Richard shares lessons about influence without authority, the value of protected thinking time, and adapting to new tech stacks and national policies. His reflections offer grounded insights for anyone navigating change or leading digital strategy in higher education. Books referenced: After On - Rob Reid Off to Be the Wizard - Scott Meyer We are Legion (We are Bob) - Dennis E. Taylor Robopocalypse - Daniel H. Wilson Hustle and Float: Reclaim Your Creativity and Thrive in a World Obsessed with Work - Rahaf Harfoush

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“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.

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