The Education-Focused Academic Podcast

In this final episode of Season One, co-hosts Dr Rushana Khusainova and Professor Sally Everett reflect on what they have learned from the podcast, their book, and the diverse academic journeys shared by contributors from around the world.We explore what these stories tell us about the evolving education-focused pathway and some of the bigger challenges facing higher education, including generative AI, assessment, student engagement, wellbeing and employability. We also consider why education-focused academics may be particularly well placed to shape what comes next.We share some personal career lessons around patience, embracing opportunities, building supportive networks and accepting both the busy and quieter seasons of academic life.Finally, we look ahead to Season Two, with conversations planned around AI, EDI, academic identity and visibility, SoTL culture, funding and turning educational ideas into impact. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not represent the positions of their universities or employers. This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional, legal, or career advice. Participation by guests is voluntary and by invitation, and their contributions are shared with permission. All book-related content is © the respective publisher and used with permission. This podcast is an independent project and is not an official production of any university.

In this episode, we are joined by Dr Michael Baird , Associate Professor and Director of Learning and Teaching at Curtin University, Australia, to explore what the education-focused academic pathway looks like from an Australian perspective. We chat about Michael's career journey into academia and examine how teaching-focused careers are structured, recognised and promoted in Australia. We discuss leadership, scholarship of teaching and learning, promotion, and the balance between teaching, research and educational innovation. A central theme of the episode is the importance of embracing opportunities. Through examples including a case of contract cheating, generative AI and educational leadership, Michael reflects on how saying "yes", building a national reputation, and turning challenges into opportunities can shape a rewarding and impactful education-focused career. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not represent the positions of their universities or employers. This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional, legal, or career advice. Participation by guests is voluntary and by invitation, and their contributions are shared with permission. All book-related content is © the respective publisher and used with permission. This podcast is an independent project and is not an official production of any university.

In this episode, we are joined by Dr Zach Thompson from the University of Tennessee, USA, to explore the education-focused academic pathway in the United States and the growing role of the Professor of Practice career route. Zach shares his unconventional journey from the charity sector and entrepreneurship into academia, reflecting on how industry experience can enrich teaching, curriculum design and student employability. We discuss the different promotion pathways available in US universities, how teaching excellence is recognised, and why industry engagement is increasingly valued alongside educational leadership. A central theme of the episode is preparing students for an AI-enabled workplace. Zach discusses authentic assessment, integrating generative AI into teaching through a university AI fellowship, and why educators should move beyond simply policing AI use towards helping students develop AI literacy and professional judgement. The conversation also explores work-life balance, mentoring, podcasts as educational outreach, and finding meaningful impact through an education-focused career. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not represent the positions of their universities or employers. This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional, legal, or career advice. Participation by guests is voluntary and by invitation, and their contributions are shared with permission. All book-related content is © the respective publisher and used with permission. This podcast is an independent project and is not an official production of any university.

In this episode, we are joined by Dr Samir Nusseibeh from KU Leuven, Belgium, to explore academic careers, teaching and professional development in the Belgian higher education context.Samir reflects on his journey from laboratory research in pharmacology into teaching-focused roles, before moving into talent development and technology transfer at KU Leuven. In this conversation we discuss cultural differences, courage to change careers and locations and the limited visibility of formal education-focused pathways in Belgium.A central theme of the episode is the importance of following opportunities and building strong professional networks. We also discuss assessment and AI, the value of critical thinking, and how academic expertise can evolve into new roles beyond the traditional university career path. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not represent the positions of their universities or employers. This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional, legal, or career advice. Participation by guests is voluntary and by invitation, and their contributions are shared with permission. All book-related content is © the respective publisher and used with permission. This podcast is an independent project and is not an official production of any university.

In this episode, we are joined by Dr Mark Speakman from the Autonomous University of Guerrero, Mexico, to explore academic careers and higher education in the Mexican context. Mark reflects on his unconventional journey into academia, from teaching English in Mexico to completing his university education later in life and building an academic career in tourism and sustainable development. A central theme of the episode is the relationship between teaching, research and social impact. We discuss how academic careers are recognised in Mexico, the opportunities and challenges facing education-focused academics, and the growing importance of engaging with Indigenous communities and knowledge systems. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not represent the positions of their universities or employers. This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional, legal, or career advice. Participation by guests is voluntary and by invitation, and their contributions are shared with permission. All book-related content is © the respective publisher and used with permission. This podcast is an independent project and is not an official production of any university.

In this episode, we are joined by Professor Nicki Newman, Professor of Business Education (Marketing) and Deputy Dean (Resources) at Birmingham Business School, to discuss career progression, teaching innovation and the idea of “upshifting” in education-focused academic careers. The conversation traces Nicki’s journey from banking into academia, and explores how her love of teaching, curiosity and commitment to improving student learning shaped her career. We discuss teaching innovation, impact, promotion applications, mentoring, and the challenge of evidencing educational contribution. One of the themes we discuss is how education-focused academics can demonstrate impact without needing to “prove” perfect causality. Another theme of the episode is upshifting: taking on roles and opportunities that help you grow towards the next career stage. Nickireflects on how to say yes strategically, when to say no, and how to build a promotion case while being mindful enjoyment, wellbeing and purpose. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not represent the positions of their universities or employers. This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional, legal, or career advice. Participation by guests is voluntary and by invitation, and their contributions are shared with permission. All book-related content is © the respective publisher and used with permission. This podcast is an independent project and is not an official production of any university.

In this episode, we are joined by Dr Rachael Lamb from the University of Bristol Business School to discuss how professional networks can shape an education-focused academic career.The conversation explores Rachael’s journey from industry into academia and reflects on the challenges of changing careers mid-life, learning how universities work, and building confidence in a new professional environment. Along the way, we discuss how networking can support career development, leadership, collaboration, and a stronger sense of academic identity. A central theme of the episode is that networking does not have to be performative or transactional. Rachel shares a more thoughtful and purposeful approach, showing how curiosity, reciprocity, and small everyday conversations can open up meaningful opportunities, create connections across the university, and help education-focused academics build influence and support over time. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not represent the positions of their universities or employers. This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional, legal, or career advice. Participation by guests is voluntary and by invitation, and their contributions are shared with permission. All book-related content is © the respective publisher and used with permission. This podcast is an independent project and is not an official production of any university.

In this episode, we are joined by Dr Lloyd Fletcher, Associate Professor in Management at the University of Bristol Business School, to explore how industry experience can shape an education-focused academic career. The conversation traces Lloyd’s journey from physics and engineering, through telecommunications and consultancy, to academia. The episode highlights how real-life stories, examples, and lived experience make learning more meaningful and bridge the gap between theory and practice. The conversation also challenges the idea of linear career planning, showing how impactful academic careers can emerge through curiosity, opportunity, and reflection rather than rigid strategy. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not represent the positions of their universities or employers. This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional, legal, or career advice. Participation by guests is voluntary and by invitation, and their contributions are shared with permission. All book-related content is © the respective publisher and used with permission. This podcast is an independent project and is not an official production of any university.

In this episode, we are joined by Dr Chahna Gonsalves, Senior Lecturer in Marketing (Education) at King’s Business School, to explore how innovation, failure and unlearning shape education-focused academic careers. The conversation traces Chahna’s journey into the education-focused pathway, from initially applying for research-track roles to discovering a strong commitment to teaching, pedagogical development and evidence-based education. We discuss the realities of working in research-intensive environments, including the challenges of navigating student engagement, curriculum design and institutional expectations. A central theme of the episode is the role of failure in driving pedagogical innovation. Drawing on her book chapter in the How to Become an Education-Focused Academic book, Chahna reflects on the importance of creating space for experimentation, embracing uncertainty, and using evidence to inform teaching practices. The discussion also highlights the need for supportive institutional cultures that enable educators to take pedagogical risks without fear of reputational consequences. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not represent the positions of their universities or employers. This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional, legal, or career advice. Participation by guests is voluntary and by invitation, and their contributions are shared with permission. All book-related content is © the respective publisher and used with permission. This podcast is an independent project and is not an official production of any university.

In this episode, we are joined by Professor Wayne Holland, Professor of Management Education and School Education Director at the University of Bristol Business School, to discuss how leadership roles can shape an education-focused academic career. The conversation explores Wayne’s journey from starting on a traditional academic pathway (research and education) in the early 1990s to becoming the first education-focused professor in Bristol Business School. Along the way, we discuss how he chose to prioritise teaching and educational leadership, and how the sector has gradually evolved to recognise education-focused career pathways. A central theme of the episode is the role of leadership in education-focused careers. Wayne argues that leadership roles should not be seen as admin, but as a powerful way to influence educational practice, shape institutional culture, and amplify impact beyond the classroom. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not represent the positions of their universities or employers. This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional, legal, or career advice. Participation by guests is voluntary and by invitation, and their contributions are shared with permission. All book-related content is © the respective publisher and used with permission. This podcast is an independent project and is not an official production of any university.

In this episode, we are joined by Professor Christine Rivers and Associate Professor Anna Holland from the University of Surrey to discuss how intention, strategy, and courage can shape an education-focused academic career. The conversation explores their very different journeys into higher education, from industry, apprenticeships, and further education to academic leadership and professorship. Along the way, we discuss navigating academic systems, building confidence, finding mentors, and recognising the value of diverse career paths. A central theme of the episode is developing an academic portfolio with intention. Christine and Anna share their “compass” approach to career development and offer a powerful reminder: just because something does not yet exist does not mean you cannot build it. For education-focused academics, being brave, trusting yourself, and creating opportunities, sometimes with the help of trusted collaborators, can be part of shaping your own path in academia. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not represent the positions of their universities or employers. This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional, legal, or career advice. Participation by guests is voluntary and by invitation, and their contributions are shared with permission. All book-related content is © the respective publisher and used with permission. This podcast is an independent project and is not an official production of any university.

In this special International Women’s Day episode of the Education-Focused Academic Podcast, we celebrate the women who inspire, mentor, and uplift us in academia and beyond. We reflect on what empowerment means for women in higher education, share personal stories about the women who shaped our journeys, and discuss the role of mentoring, sponsorship, and supportive networks in helping women thrive in academic careers. The conversation also explores the realities of navigating academia as women, finding your voice, challenging expectations, and embracing different leadership styles. A powerful theme throughout the episode is courage: the courage to pursue opportunities, to speak up, to support others, and to create new paths when they do not yet exist. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not represent the positions of their universities or employers. This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional, legal, or career advice. Participation by guests is voluntary and by invitation, and their contributions are shared with permission. All book-related content is © the respective publisher and used with permission. This podcast is an independent project and is not an official production of any university.

In this episode, we are joined by Professor James Norman, Professor of Sustainable Design at the University of Bath, an engineer whose career began in industry and who later moved into academia to use education as a way to impact engineering practice. The conversation traces James’s unconventional journey from engineering and industry, through part-time teaching alongside professional practice, to becoming a professor whose work spans education, curriculum design, leadership, and industry transformation. We discuss promotion, rejection, and credibility, including the role of national recognition, writing for impact, and how industry experience can reshape how education-focused academics navigate the system. A central theme of the episode is purpose: challenging traditional academic pathways, protecting time for meaningful work, and using education as a lever to change industry practice, particularly in the context of sustainable engineering. Professor Norman also reflects on writing, creativity, AI, privilege, and why not all academic success needs to follow the same script. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not represent the positions of their universities or employers. This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional, legal, or career advice. Participation by guests is voluntary and by invitation, and their contributions are shared with permission. All book-related content is © the respective publisher and used with permission. This podcast is an independent project and is not an official production of any university.

In this episode, we are joined by a Professor Xue Zhou - Professor of AI in Business Education and one of the UK’s first Deans of AI to discuss how expertise, focus, and curiosity can shape an education-focused academic career. The conversation traces Professor Zhou’s journey from engineering and digital teaching tools like Top Hat, through widening participation and pedagogic research, to becoming known for AI in education. Along the way, we discuss the realities of limited scholarship time, leadership expectations, and how education-focused academics often have to work harder to make their impact visible. A central part of the episode focuses on very practical uses of generative AI, from reducing admin through meeting summaries, to speeding up systematic literature reviews, and supporting fellowship and promotion applications. AI is framed as a a helpful way of protecting time for teaching, scholarship and leadership. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not represent the positions of their universities or employers. This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional, legal, or career advice. Participation by guests is voluntary and by invitation, and their contributions are shared with permission. All book-related content is © the respective publisher and used with permission. This podcast is an independent project and is not an official production of any university.

In this episode, we are joined by Marios Kremantzis from the University of Bristol Business School to explore education-focused academic careers through the lens of scale, impact, and generative AI. Marios reflects on his journey from decision science into education-focused leadership, sharing insights on teaching large cohorts, designing fair assessments, supporting international students, and making education work visible and scholarly. The conversation looks at generative AI as a strategic consideration for education-focused academics, how it can support curriculum design, assessment, and academic workflows, while protecting the human-centred core of education. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not represent the positions of their universities or employers. This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional, legal, or career advice. Participation by guests is voluntary and by invitation, and their contributions are shared with permission. All book-related content is © the respective publisher and used with permission. This podcast is an independent project and is not an official production of any university.

In this episode, Rushana turns from co-host to guest and talks about visibility and personal brand for career development. Together, we explore why many academics feel uneasy about becoming more visible, why personal branding is often misunderstood, and how education-focused colleagues can approach it in an authentic, and useful way. Drawing on her marketing background, Rushana shares how she began thinking intentionally about visibility, the role LinkedIn played in shaping her professional identity, and why sharing your work is less about “self-promotion” and more about contributing, supporting others, and making your expertise findable. We talk through the “Academics Get Visible” framework: from understanding your values and what you want to be known for, to identifying your audience and choosing simple starting points. The conversation is full of practical, realistic tips for building a presence that feels comfortable, sustainable, and genuinely aligned with an education-focused career. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not represent the positions of their universities or employers. This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional, legal, or career advice. Participation by guests is voluntary and by invitation, and their contributions are shared with permission. All book-related content is © the respective publisher and used with permission. This podcast is an independent project and is not an official production of any university.

In this episode, Professor Sally Everett turns from co-host to guest as we talk honestly about an inclusive path to professorship and championing equity, diversity, and inclusion. Sally shares the personal and professional journey that led her into EDI work, from her own lived experiences to reinvigorating women’s networks, responding to disabled students’ allowance cuts, and getting involved with race equity initiatives and advisory boards. Together, we unpack the shift from “equality” to “equity”, the idea of becoming more “JEDI” (justice, equity, diversity and inclusion), and how structural inequalities and awarding gaps show up in higher education. The conversation is grounded in very practical examples, from inclusive documents and case studies to food choices at events, and offers encouraging advice for colleagues who want to be more inclusive but worry about “getting it wrong”. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not represent the positions of their universities or employers. This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional, legal, or career advice. Participation by guests is voluntary and by invitation, and their contributions are shared with permission. All book-related content is © the respective publisher and used with permission. This podcast is an independent project and is not an official production of any university.

Welcome to the first episode of The Education-Focused Academic podcast ! Hosts Dr Rushana Khusainova and Professor Sally Everett open the series by exploring what it means to be an education-focused academic and why this career path deserves more visibility in higher education. In this conversation, we discuss: what “education-focused academic” means in practice why this role is timely and important across the sector the story behind our book How to Become an Education-Focused Professor, out in spring 2026 Sally’s and Rushana’s own career journeys what this podcast will cover in future episodes We also introduce upcoming conversations with contributors from the book, H ow to Become an Education-Focused Professor, who will share real experiences and insights from different universities and career stages. Thanks for joining us for Episode 1 — let’s keep the conversation going! Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not represent the positions of their universities or employers. This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional, legal, or career advice. Participation by guests is voluntary and by invitation, and their contributions are shared with permission. All book-related content is © the respective publisher and used with permission. This podcast is an independent project and is not an official production of any university.