Changing Lives Through Education Abroad
Episodes
From Numbers to Narratives: Making the Case for Global Learning (feat. Blair Thomson)
16 Dec 2025
Contributed by Lukas
On our latest podcast episode, host Zac Macinnes sits down with Blair Thomson, the Senior International Officer and Director of Study Abroad at the Un...
Intentional by Design: Preparing Faculty to Lead Transformative Study Abroad Programs (feat. Meisha Swaby)
02 Dec 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Host Zac Macinnes is joined by Meisha Swaby, Director of Faculty-Led Programming at Northeastern University, to explore how intentional design and st...
Creating Study Abroad Champions: Campus Internationalization via Strategic Staff Travel
18 Nov 2025
Contributed by Lukas
As we celebrate International Education Week, we’re reflecting on what it means to be true stewards of internationalization. In this episode, we’r...
Holding Joy: Promoting Health and Well-Being in International Education (feat. Aimee Jones)
04 Nov 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this uplifting and much-needed conversation, host Zac Macinnes sits down with Aimee Jones, Director of Education Abroad at Colorado State Universit...
Awareness, Assessment, Action, and Accountability: Andrew Gordon on the Evolution of DA Global
21 Oct 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this inspiring episode of Changing Lives through Education Abroad, Zac Macinnes sits down with Andrew Gordon, Founder and CEO of DA Global Access N...
State Department Travel Advisories: Evolution and Current Use in International Education (feat. Ryan Larsen, Ph.D.)
07 Oct 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Host Zac Macinnes welcomes Ryan Larsen, Ph.D., Senior International Officer and Executive Director of the Office of Global Engagement at Western Washi...
How Study Abroad Prepares Students for the Workforce (feat. Lindsey Aloia, Ph.D.)
23 Sep 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In the latest episode of Changing Lives through Education Abroad, we are joined by Dr. Lindsey Aloia, the Associate Dean for International Education ...
Navigating Uncertainty: Policy Changes and the Future of International Education (feat. Karin Fischer)
09 Sep 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of Changing Lives through Education Abroad, host Zac Macinnes welcomes back Karin Fischer, Senior Writer for The Chronicle of Higher...
Coaching Career Growth in International Education (feat. Sarah E. Spencer)
26 Aug 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Host Zac Macinnes sits down with Sarah E. Spencer, Founder of OnPoint Global Strategies & Coaching and Executive Director of the Global Leadership...
New Look, Same Life-Changing Experiences: The Story Behind the WorldStrides Higher Ed Rebrand
12 Aug 2025
Contributed by Lukas
WorldStrides Higher Education has officially unveiled a fresh new brand and website for students and partners. In this episode, Zac Macinnes take a pe...
Catalyzing Climate Action in International Education: A Conversation with CANIE Leaders Kate Hellman & Sebastian Fernandes
20 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
On the season finale of Changing Lives through Education Abroad, host Zac Macinnes is joined by Kate Hellman and Sebastian Fernandes, two leaders fro...
Strategic Travel for International Educators: Perfecting the Art of the Site Visit (feat. Ehren Kuzekov)
06 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
What happens when a site visit becomes the catalyst for strategic innovation? In this episode, Ehren Kuzekov, Director of Study Abroad at Grand Valley...
Fair Trade Study Abroad (feat. Samantha Brandauer)
22 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Join host Zac Macinnes as he sits down with Samantha Brandauer, Associate Provost and Executive Director of the Center for Global Study and Engagement...
Leveling Up Your Pre-Departure Orientation: Effectively Preparing Today's Students for Study Abroad (feat. Meg Ramey, Ph.D.)
08 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of Changing Lives through Education Abroad, host Zac Macinnes sits down with Meg Ramey, Ph.D., founder and Executive Director of Worl...
Sowing Seeds of Opportunity: Expanding Access to Study Abroad for Rural Students (feat. Kate Wray Chettri)
25 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of Changing Lives through Education Abroad, host Zac Macinnes explores the unique challenges and opportunities faced by rural student...
The Road Ahead: A Conversation with the Forum on Education Abroad's Melissa Torres
11 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of Changing Lives through Education Abroad, host Zac Macinnes sits down with Melissa Torres, President & CEO of the Forum on Educ...
Centering Place-Based Learning in Education Abroad (feat. Paul Geis)
25 Feb 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Today we take a deep dive into what we mean when we talk about location and purposeful learning in education abroad. Join Host Zac Macinnes and Paul ...
Your Emails are Too Long: Advising Hacks for Reaching Today's Students (feat. Mandy Reinig)
11 Feb 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Host Zac Macinnes sits down with Mandy Reinig, Director of Education Abroad at Coastal Carolina University, for an insightful convers...
Off the Beaten Path: Tips for Steering Students to Non-Traditional Destinations (Feat. Kelly McGee, Ph.D.)
28 Jan 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Mutual understanding is critical in today’s interconnected world, and study abroad is essential in working towards this goal. Join Host Zac Macinnes...
Viva España: Why Spain is a More Popular Study Abroad Destination Than Ever (feat. WorldStrides Higher Ed Spain Staff)
14 Jan 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In the season 5 premiere of Changing Lives Through Education Abroad, join host Zac Macinnes for a vibrant discussion on why Spain is more popular tha...
Quiet Leadership in International Education: Harnessing the Power of Introverts in a Noisy World (feat. Kate Scott)
17 Dec 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Leadership takes many forms; today’s dialogue with Kate Scott, Director of Programs Abroad in the Center for Global Engagement at the University of ...
Mentorship & Community: Empowering the Next Generation of Education Abroad Leaders
03 Dec 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Join Host Zac Macinnes for an uplifting conversation with Sora Friedman, Ph.D., Professor and Chair, International and Global Education, of the SIT Gr...
Leading with Authenticity: Inspiring Positive Change in Education Abroad (feat. Hillary Koller)
18 Nov 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Education Abroad is a dynamic field and it requires dynamic leadership to match. Join host Zac Macinnes and guest Hillary Koller, Director of the Univ...
Seriously: How Humor Can Make Leaders More Effective in International Education (feat. Alissa Briggs)
04 Nov 2024
Contributed by Lukas
This week, host Zac Macinnes sits down with Alissa Briggs, Director of Study Abroad at Clark University, for a light-hearted conversation focused on t...
Where’s the T: Empowering Transgender Students to Study Abroad (feat. Ash Trebisacci)
22 Oct 2024
Contributed by Lukas
At WorldStrides, we have a dream of study abroad for all. This week, Ash Trebisacci, Assistant Director of Study Abroad at Brandeis University, joins ...
Managing Change in International Education: Challenging the 'We've Always Done It This Way' Mentality (feat. Jack Hobson, Ph.D.)
08 Oct 2024
Contributed by Lukas
While study abroad is a dynamic field, change may not necessarily be the first word we associate with higher education. Join host Zac Macinnes and Jac...
Further, Faster: Practical Tips & Efficiency Hacks from a One Person Office (feat. Hillary Sabbagh)
24 Sep 2024
Contributed by Lukas
This week, host Zac Macinnes is joined by Hillary Sabbagh, Director of International Programs at Stonehill College, for a dynamic dialogue focused on ...
Australia is for All: Evolving Student Motivations for Study Abroad Down Under (feat. Todd St. Vrain & Matt Stubbert)
10 Sep 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Australia truly excels in terms of academics, student support, inclusivity and engagement. Join host Zac Macinnes as he sits down with Todd St. Vrain,...
Queer, There, Everywhere: Empowering LGBTQ+ Students to Study Abroad (feat. David Harger)
27 Aug 2024
Contributed by Lukas
This week, we take a deep dive into the topic of empowering students who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community on their path to study abroad. Join ...
Future Ready: Academic Alignment & Delivery to Maximize Student Success in Study Abroad (feat. Elizabeth Erbeznik, Ph.D.)
13 Aug 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Welcome back! This week, Host Zac Macinnes is joined by Dr. Elizabeth Erbeznik, Senior Associate Vice President of Curriculum & Academics, for an ...
Lessons in Leadership, Life & Resilience with NAFSA's Fanta Aw, Ph.D.
23 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
NAFSA is our guiding light, the driver of our professional development, our venue to be of service and lead, a point of connection, reflection, and ad...
Deep Roots & Long Branches: Designing a Career in Education Abroad to Thrive for the Long Term (feat. Jennifer Fritz)
20 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
They say it’s about the journey and not the destination. Join host Zac Macinnes as he sits down with Jennifer Fritz, Associate Director of the Offic...
Study Abroad & Artificial Intelligence: Meaningful Background For Transformative Practices (feat. Joseph Meringolo)
14 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Ready or not, artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming more present in our daily lives and work. This week, host Zac Macinnes is joined by Joseph Meri...
Growth Mindset: Innovative Ways to Scale Study Abroad (feat. Autumn Beechler Stebing)
07 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
International education is nothing if not dynamic, and we as professionals can do our best work with the farthest reach when we are innovative in our ...
Sea Change: A Critical Conversation About Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion within International Education (feat. Ogonna Owu Jones)
30 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Diversifying our field can help to diversify the students who participate in education abroad, an outcome that is front of mind in 2024 and beyond. J...
Embracing Other Duties as Assigned: The Road to Leadership in Education Abroad (feat. Whitney Longnecker)"
23 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Looking to level up in your career? This week, Host Zac Macinnes sits down with Whitney Longnecker, Director of Study Abroad at Texas Tech University,...
Age Diversity: Navigating the Multi-Generational International Education Workplace (feat. Jeannie Simmons & Ryan Vonderhaar)
16 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
International Education is a dynamic field strengthened by its mix of fresh faces and seasoned practitioners. Join Host Zac Macinnes for a fun and tho...
The U.S. Department of State’s IDEAS (Increase and Diversify Education Abroad for U.S. Students) Program: What You Need to Know (feat. Rachel Rice)
09 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Seeking a way to build capacity for education abroad? Look no further than this episode, focused on the IDEAS Program’s goals to diversify expand an...
Friends Not Foes: Advancing Campus Internationalization Through True Faculty Partnership (feat. Patricia Sagasti Suppes, Ph.D.)
02 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
It takes a village to do what we do. Yet, as practitioners we often don’t truly consider the faculty perspective when it comes to international educ...
Show Me the Money: The Evolving Landscape of Study Abroad Funding & Financial Aid (feat. Ebony Majeed)
26 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Supporting students as they prepare for study abroad includes navigating financial considerations. This week, host Zac Macinnes sits down with Ebony M...
Purpose & Community: Strategies for Combatting Burnout in International Education (feat. Caylie Middleton)
19 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
International educators have some of the most meaningful and uplifting jobs, yet burnout exists in our field as it does anywhere. Join host Zac Macin...
First-Year Abroad: Promoting Intercultural Agility & Leadership Skills in Students (feat. Jill Blondin, Ph.D., & Jon Stauff, Ph.D.)
12 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In a landscape where we already recognize study abroad as a high impact practice, First Year Abroad Programs are emergent as an example of how intenti...
A Roadmap to Early Career Success in International Education (feat. Grace Twardy)
05 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
As an early to mid-career professional in international education, it’s essential to effectively leverage your experiences to develop leadership ski...
Empowering Students with Disabilities to Study Abroad (feat. Sara Easler, Ph.D.)
27 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
When we think about meeting the needs of today’s students, accessibility is front of mind. Join host Zac Macinnes as he sits down with Sara Easler, ...
New Approaches to International Education Leadership (feat. Larry Pickener)
20 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Join host Zac Macinnes and guest Larry Pickener, Director of Global Education at Boston College, for an insightful conversation on leadership as it lo...
Real Talk and Tik Tok: Reaching Gen Z Students with Authenticity
13 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Reaching our students is an ever-moving target. This week Zac Macinnes sits down with Snow White, Senior Regional Director at WorldStrides, for a fun ...
Navigating Scholarships & Reducing Financial Barriers to Education Abroad (feat. Angela Schaffer)
06 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
When we consider the student pathway to study abroad, funding is often uniquely pivotal in that journey. Join host Zac Macinnes as he sits down with A...
Exploring the Impact of International Internships (feat. Dr. Jeffrey Ayres)
30 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
This week, Jeffrey Ayres Ph.D., Director of the Center for Global Engagement and Senior International Officer at Saint Michael’s College, joins host...
Undergraduate Research Abroad: A High Impact Practice (feat. Andrew Wingfield)
23 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Research can enhance an experience abroad and provide new lenses for academic and professional exploration. Join Zac Macinnes for a thoughtful convers...
Understanding Psychological Safety & Why it Matters for International Education Teams (ft. Amy Ewen, Ed.D.)
16 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
This week, we examine how teams can be most effective and poised for innovation when psychological safety is a priority for leaders who instill it as ...
Safety Net: Navigating Risk, Wellness and the Needs of Study Abroad Student in 2024 (feat. Robin Reliford)
09 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
As international educators, the wellbeing of our students is always a top priority. Join Zac Macinnes as he sits down with Robin Reliford, J.D., Head ...
Gender Gap: A Critical Conversation on the Missing Men in Study Abroad (feat. Brian Henry)
19 Dec 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Male-identifying students represent just about one-third of study abroad students. In this episode, Brian Henry, an experienced J.E.D.I. facilitator a...
Innovation through Information: Data-Driven Leadership in Education Abroad (feat. Mark Eckman)
12 Dec 2023
Contributed by Lukas
This week, we examine the field of international education through the lens of data-driven leadership with takeaways for offices of all sizes and expe...
Against the Odds: Scaling STEM Study Abroad (feat. Susi Rachouh)
05 Dec 2023
Contributed by Lukas
As international educators, we hold the belief that study abroad can be for all students. But for those with heavily structured majors, like STEM, ful...
On the Up and Up: The State of Faculty-Led Study Abroad in 2024 (feat. Morgan Inabinet)
29 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we explore the dynamic landscape of faculty-led travel, focusing on the trends, innovations, and challenges of these transformative e...
From Beethoven to Britney: Pop Culture Influences on Study Abroad (feat. Kyle Rausch, Ed.D.)
13 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
The things that bring us together can also help support students in reaching their education abroad goals! Join host Zac Macinnes for what may be our ...
Understanding Fulbright International Education Administrators Seminars and The Art of the Site Visit (feat. Elizabeth Strong, MBA)
07 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Join host Zac Macinnes for an inspiring conversation with Elizabeth Strong, Director of the Office of Education Abroad at Missouri State University, a...
Contributing to Study Abroad Participant and Program Diversity: How Leaders and All Practitioners Can Build a Talent Pipeline (feat. Carolina Robinson, Ph.D.)
31 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Join host Zac Macinnes and Carolina Robinson, Ph.D., Director of Education Abroad at the University of Alabama, for a vital discussion around how inte...
Empowering First-Generation Students to Study Abroad (feat. Maggie Mahoney, Ed.D.)
24 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation between host Zac Macinnes and Maggie Mahoney, Ed.D., Director of Global Engagement at the University of H...
Study Abroad for All: Moving Beyond Deficit Narratives to Uplift Historically Marginalized Students (feat. Malaika Marable Serrano, Ph.D.)
17 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
As international educators, we share the dream of study abroad for all. But how do we get there? Join host Zac Macinnes for an invigorating discourse ...
Fostering Global Leaders: Lessons in Entrepreneurship, Mentorship & Connection (feat. Cynthia Banks)
10 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Join host Zac Macinnes for an inspiring and thoughtful discussion with Cynthia Banks. The seasoned entrepreneur and passionate international education...
Karin Fischer on the Next Big Thing in International Education
03 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
This week, Zac Macinnes hosts a thought-provoking conversation with the one and only Karin Fischer. Tune in as we get to know the long-time internatio...
Making the Forum on Education Abroad Standards of Good Practice Work for You (feat. Emily Gorlewski, Ed.D.)
26 Sep 2023
Contributed by Lukas
A leading authority in international education, the Forum on Education Abroad maintains, updates, and shares the Standards of Good Practice for Educat...
HBCUs and Education Abroad: Amplifying a Story with Lessons for All International Educators (feat. Keshia Abraham, Ph.D.)
19 Sep 2023
Contributed by Lukas
There are over 100 Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in the United States, many of which have been actively engaged in study abroad...
Building Community: Leveraging Local Education Abroad Networks to Go Further, Faster (feat. Kate Lamanna)
12 Sep 2023
Contributed by Lukas
This week, Zac Macinnes sits down with the "Queen of New Jersey," Kate Lamanna, to discuss the power of local education networks in the U.S. The Assis...
First-Year Study Abroad: A High-Impact Practice for Incoming Students (feat. Amy Stevens)
05 Sep 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we zoom in on Northeastern University's N.U.in program, an innovative initiative that invites first-semester students to begin thei...
The Intersection of Anti-DEI Legislation & Education Abroad (feat. Dr. Lily Lopez-McGee)
29 Aug 2023
Contributed by Lukas
What are the ramifications for education abroad given recent changes to affirmative action and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) legislation? Joi...
Addressing Disparities in International Education through Respectful Disruption (feat. Christina ’Chris’ Thompson)
24 Aug 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Join host Zac Macinnes as he welcomes Christina 'Chris' Thompson, Founder and Managing Director of the COMPEAR Global Education Network and Consultant...
Study Abroad in Latin America: Back & Better Than Ever (feat. Michelle McRaney)
15 Aug 2023
Contributed by Lukas
What makes education abroad in Latin America so special? Join host Zac Macinnes and Michelle McRaney, longtime ISA Resident Director in Lima, Peru, an...
How to Land Your Dream Job in International Education (feat. Angela Manginelli)
21 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Looking for ways to author your professional journey in international education? Join Zac Macinnes and Angela Manginelli, Creative Career Coach & Illu...
Leveraging Storytelling to Level Up in International Education (feat. Giselda Beaudin)
13 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
How can international educators use creative writing to enhance the reach and impact of their work? Join Zac Macinnes and Giselda Beaudin, Director ...
NAFSA 2023 Recap & International Education Conference Tips & Tricks (feat. Maureen Manning)
08 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Join Zac Macinnes and Maureen Manning, Vice President of Strategy & Insight at The PIE, for a recap of NAFSA 2023, a look ahead at upcoming conference...
Study Abroad as a Leadership Laboratory (feat. Thy Yang)
30 May 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Join Zac Macinnes and Thy Yang, Assistant Vice President of International Education at Norwich University, as they discuss how international education...
Fostering Sustainable Tourism and Responsible Travel in Education Abroad (feat. Kirsten Sheppard)
23 May 2023
Contributed by Lukas
It can be difficult coming to terms with the environmental impact of education abroad, but we can all take small steps to create a more sustainable fu...
Capacity Building for Education Abroad through Strategic DEI Outreach (feat. Valerie Jenkelunas)
16 May 2023
Contributed by Lukas
If you feel like you work in a silo on your university campus, you are not alone. Join Zac Macinnes and Valerie Jenkelunas, Advisor and Community Liai...
Cultivating Your Personal Brand in International Education (feat. Sara Dart)
09 May 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Join Zac Macinnes and Sara Dart, Senior Vice President of Education in Ireland, discuss creating a personal brand, dealing with imposter syndrome, and...
Innovating Global Learning: 21st Century Study Abroad (feat. Noah Rost)
02 May 2023
Contributed by Lukas
While the pandemic was difficult for everyone in the international education field, it did create space for innovation and positive change. Join Zac M...
Practicing Mindfulness and Finding Your Joy in International Education (feat. Jane Bjerklie-Barry)
25 Apr 2023
Contributed by Lukas
As international educators, we know the stress that comes with running programs, creating budgets, and dealing with on-site issues. So, why not try a ...
Encouraging Sustainable Travel and Immersion during Study Abroad (feat. Kate Manni)
18 Apr 2023
Contributed by Lukas
While education abroad can have large carbon footprint, there are ways for international educators to think strategically about ways to counteract its...
The Power of People-First Leadership in Education Abroad (feat. Orlina Boteva)
11 Apr 2023
Contributed by Lukas
How should leaders in international education best support their teams in a continuously evolving field? Join Zac Macinnes and Orlina Boteva, Director...
Thriving as a Mid-Career Professional in International Education (feat. Abi Cavazos)
04 Apr 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Dealing with the burnout and frustrations of day-to-day tasks in higher education can be daunting, but we can never forget why we do what we do. Join ...
Creating Faculty Fellows in Education Abroad (feat. Ashley Neyer)
28 Mar 2023
Contributed by Lukas
This week, join Zac Macinnes and Ashley Neyer, Director of Education Abroad at University of Alabama Birmingham, as they discuss how international edu...
Leading and Innovating in Education Abroad at a Public University (feat. Kelly Newlon)
21 Mar 2023
Contributed by Lukas
This week, join Zac Macinnes and Dr. Kelly Newlon, Director of Global Learning at Washington State University, as they discuss the benefits, challenge...
Study Abroad Photos: Unpacking Privilege, Power and ”The Other” (feat. Tim White)
13 Mar 2023
Contributed by Lukas
What’s in the power of a photograph? Join Zac Macinnes and Dr. Tim White, Director of International Academic Initiatives at Montclair State Universi...
New Zealand as an Inclusive Study Abroad Destination
07 Mar 2023
Contributed by Lukas
DEI is a core part of Education New Zealand’s (ENZ) strategy for international education. Join Zac Macinnes and DuBois Jennings, ENZ Director of En...
Preparing Students for Their Time Abroad (feat. LaSharon McLean Perez)
27 Feb 2023
Contributed by Lukas
When it comes to your pre-departure orientation, it can be challenging to keep students engaged and excited for their time abroad while getting throug...
Engaging Faculty in International Programing (feat. Dr. Christa Olson)
21 Feb 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Connecting with faculty and creating a global culture on campus can be challenging with silos, conflicting priorities, and lack of time. In this episo...
Cultivating Study Abroad Champions (feat. Sarah Malloy)
14 Feb 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Cultivating a culture of education abroad on a university campus is a shared responsibility—but one best led by the study abroad office. Sarah Mallo...
How Women in Leadership are Impacting the Future of Education Abroad
06 Feb 2023
Contributed by Lukas
International education has the power to change lives and inspire connections across borders. Join the WorldStrides Higher Ed leadership team, Jennife...