Smarter Campus Podcast

In this episode of Smarter Campus, host Zach Kinzler sits down with Lara Taylor, Purdue Polytechnic doctoral candidate and instructional technologist at Mississippi State, to trace her journey from library stacks to AI frontlines. Lara shares how her master’s research on machine-learning chatbots and search algorithms in SEC libraries ignited her passion for generative AI—long before ChatGPT put it on everyone’s radar.

They dig into the early wins and growing pains of launching an “Emerging Technologies Committee” (think VR, AR, and AI), building a tech‐literacy framework, and shifting a traditionally slow‐moving library world into high gear. Laura’s top advice? Don’t fear the future—“jump in and join the party.” Whether you’re an educator, administrator, or simply AI‐curious, you’ll come away with concrete strategies for overcoming resistance, empowering students, and unleashing creativity far beyond the classroom. Tune in to see how AI can transform your campus—one chatbot at a time.

In Episode 11 of Smarter Campus, host Zach Kinzler sits down with Dr. Allison Lester from Arizona State University to explore how AI and action research can spark real-world impact. As an AI educator and action researcher, Dr. Lester shares how she weaves community-based projects into media literacy courses, secures grant funding, and champions collaborative structures in classrooms—drawing on her roots as a special education teacher. Tune in to discover how AI tools can bridge education and community, fuel meaningful learning experiences, and empower learners beyond the campus walls.

In this episode of the Smarter Campus Podcast, Zach sits down with Davy Mbuto Nkurunziza to explore the powerful intersection of AI and education in Africa. From enhancing access and equity to rethinking how teachers and students engage with learning tools, Davy shares how AI is shaping the future of education on the continent. They dive into the real challenges and creative solutions emerging from African classrooms, and what global educators can learn from them.

In this heartwarming episode of the Smarter Campus Podcast, 9-year-old AI enthusiast Emily joins Zach to show us why artificial intelligence isn’t as scary as it seems. Drawing on her brilliant “shadow” analogy—how a dark shape can feel frightening at first but soon becomes just another way to see yourself—Emily walks us through the simple steps anyone can take to get hands-on with AI. Tune in for her inspiring stories, playful outlook, and practical encouragement that prove AI is for everyone—no magic wand or secret password required!

In this inspiring episode of the Smarter Campus Podcast, host Zach Kinzler engages with Dr. Sarah Gibson, Associate Professor of Communication at Lipscomb University, to explore the evolving landscape of education in the age of artificial intelligence. Dr. Gibson shares her insights on integrating AI into the classroom, emphasizing the importance of maintaining human-centered teaching practices amidst technological advancements. She discusses her experiences with student-led podcast networks and the role of storytelling in fostering engagement and critical thinking. The conversation also delves into strategies for educators to balance innovation with authenticity, ensuring that the core values of education remain intact