Changing Lives Through Education Abroad

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.

In this uplifting and much-needed conversation, host Zac Macinnes sits down with Aimee Jones, Director of Education Abroad at Colorado State University, to explore what it truly means to sustain health, balance, and joy in the mission-driven world of international education. Together, Zac and Aimee unpack how leaders can model well-being for their teams, why small acts of recognition matter, and how we can all create cultures of psychological safety, creativity, and belonging - especially in an era of remote and hybrid work. Whether you’re a campus-based practitioner, a leader navigating change, or someone who simply wants to feel more grounded in your purpose, this conversation offers an honest and hopeful look at how to “hold joy” while doing the work that changes lives.

In this inspiring episode of Changing Lives through Education Abroad, Zac Macinnes sits down with Andrew Gordon, Founder and CEO of DA Global Access Network — the organization formerly known as Diversity Abroad. For nearly twenty years, Andrew has challenged the field of international education to think critically about who gets to go abroad, how access and inclusion are defined, and what real accountability looks like in practice. Together, Zac and Andrew trace the journey from Diversity Abroad’s early days to DA Global’s rebrand, unpacking how the organization continues to evolve alongside shifting campus needs and global realities. Andrew shares insights on the 4A Framework—Awareness, Assessment, Action, and Accountability—and how institutions can embed equity into everyday operations. He also gives a preview of the 2025 Global Impact Conference in Minneapolis, reflects on the milestones that shaped the organization, and offers a hopeful look toward a future where equity isn’t just a value, but a strategy for global engagement.

Host Zac Macinnes welcomes Ryan Larsen, Ph.D., Senior International Officer and Executive Director of the Office of Global Engagement at Western Washington University, to unpack the history and impact of U.S. State Department Travel Advisories in international education. From their origins and the Lockerbie bombing to today’s Level 1–4 system, Ryan shares insights from his doctoral research and nearly two decades in international education. Together, they explore how advisories influence policy, risk management, and student access to global opportunities - offering context, caution, and best practices for creating safe yet transformative experiences abroad.

In the latest episode of Changing Lives through Education Abroad, we are joined by Dr. Lindsey Aloia, the Associate Dean for International Education at the University of Arkansas. Together, we explore how study abroad shapes workforce development, strategies for supporting underrepresented students, and how to build stronger bridges between international education and career services.

In this episode of Changing Lives through Education Abroad, host Zac Macinnes welcomes back Karin Fischer, Senior Writer for The Chronicle of Higher Education, to unpack the shifting policy and regulatory landscape shaping international education in 2025 and beyond. With her journalist’s perspective, Karin sheds light on what's happening in Washington, D.C., state capitols and beyond - and what it means for our students, institutions and day-to-day practice. Together, Zac and Karin explore how the field is adapting, where vulnerabilities remain, and what opportunities for innovation and growth might lie ahead.

Host Zac Macinnes sits down with Sarah E. Spencer, Founder of OnPoint Global Strategies & Coaching and Executive Director of the Global Leadership League. Experienced in leadership, coaching, and organizational strategy, Sarah shares her insights on helping professionals navigate career transitions, build trust across teams, and level up in international education. The conversation explores the unique challenges emerging and established leaders face, the critical role of mindset, and the “power skills” that can transform our work in today’s fast-changing environment. Sarah also offers practical advice on refining personal brands, avoiding common resume pitfalls, and knowing when coaching might be the right step.

WorldStrides Higher Education has officially unveiled a fresh new brand and website for students and partners. In this episode, Zac Macinnes take a peek behind the curtain with Amber Garrett, Vice President of Marketing, to explore what it really takes to reimagine a brand in the international education space. From strategy to launch day and beyond, get the inside scoop on the journey that brought the new WorldStrides Higher Ed to life.