About Unfiltered by EmpowerED: Educators’ Voices Uncut
Welcome to ”Unfiltered by EmpowerED,” the podcast series where education meets conversation, unscripted and unrestrained.
In every episode, we dive deep into the heart of teaching and learning, bringing you raw, honest discussions with educators, innovators, and thinkers from across the educational spectrum. Our mission? To illuminate the most effective strategies, the most innovative approaches, and the most inspiring stories in education today.
#18 Generative AI & the Future of Higher Education Work l Unfiltered by EmpowerED
The rise of generative AI is not just a technological shift—it’s a fundamental transformation of how higher education operates, teaches, and evaluates learning. In this episode of Unfiltered by EmpowerED, we sit down with Panagiota (Penny) Tzanni, Postgraduate Researcher and Learning Developer, to explore how AI is reshaping employability, academic roles, and the future of English for Academic Purposes (EAP).
From navigating global career challenges and professional identity shifts to confronting the realities of AI disruption, Penny shares a candid, thought-provoking perspective on what higher education professionals must do to stay relevant.
13 Apr 2026
#17 Rethinking Academic Advising for Student Success l Unfiltered by EmpowerED
Academic advising is often seen as a support function—but what if it’s actually central to student success, belonging, and institutional impact? In this episode of Unfiltered by EmpowerED, we speak with Wayne Ramwell, Senior Tutor and Academic Advisor at the University of Manchester, about the evolving role of advising in higher education.
Wayne shares his journey into advising, insights into the professional advising model, and how institutions can better support the “whole student”—academically, personally, and professionally. We also explore challenges such as student engagement, trust-building, wellbeing, and the growing need for compassionate, student-centred approaches.
16 Feb 2026
#16 From Stress to Strategy: Helping Students Navigate College Admissions Wisely | Unfiltered by EmpowerED
The college journey is often sold as rankings, prestige, and eye-watering tuition fees. But what if it could be different? In this episode of Unfiltered by EmpowerED, we talk with Shellee Howard, Founder & CEO of College Ready, about how to help students pursue higher education without losing themselves or their financial future.
Shellee shares:
How to send your child to college without going into debt
Why passion projects matter more than polished résumés
The truth behind Ivy League myths and what it really takes to stand out
How to think clearly about scholarships, aid and the real cost of college
How educators can guide students towards colleges that fit both their dreams and their reality
We also hear about Shellee’s experience in Uganda and how that shaped her non-profit, Empower Education, and her belief in education as a global force for change. Perfect for teachers, counsellors, school leaders and parents who want honest, unfiltered insight into the modern admissions landscape.
Podcast Chapters
00:00 – Introduction
04:30 – Why Families Feel Overwhelmed About College
11:00 – What Colleges Really Look For in Students
18:30 – Passion, Purpose & Student Identity
25:45 – Global Perspective on Education Access
32:45 – Handling Rejection & Finding the Right Fit
37:50 – Are Schools Preparing Students for the Future?
42:10 – Scholarships, Financial Strategy & Hidden Costs
46:10 – AI in College Admissions
50:05 – Final Reflections & Key Takeaways
Resources Mentioned
College Ready Planning WebsiteEmpower Education (International Nonprofit)
Podcast: Parents, is Your Teen College Ready?
Book: How to Send Your Child to College Without Losing Your Mind or Your Money
Book: The College Admissions Plan Simplified
Shellee’s Contact Details:
College Ready’s Instagram
Shellee’s Linkedin
For more updates, follow EmpowerED:
Website: empoweredwebinars.com
X (Twitter): @MpowerEDWebinar
LinkedIn: EmpowerED Webinars
Email: info@EmpowerEDwebinars.com
13 Oct 2025
#15 Grief and Growth: Navigating Bereavement in Higher Education | Unfiltered by EmpowerED
How personal loss shapes student life, identity, and support systems on campus.
In this raw and powerful episode of Unfiltered by EmpowerED, we’re joined by an extraordinary guest who shares her personal journey of navigating grief as a student—and how those early experiences of loss, silence, and resilience sparked the creation of The Student Grief Network. We discuss what it means to grieve at university, the unique challenges faced by students, the gaps in institutional support, and how grief can become a quiet but powerful catalyst for growth, empathy, and change.
Whether you’re a student, educator, or simply someone who’s experienced loss, this is an episode that will stay with you.
Podcast Chapters:
01:53 – Introduction & Anna’s Journey into Grief Work
02:29 – Losing Her Brother and the Hidden Impact of Childhood Grief
08:25 – Founding the Student Grief Network at University
10:50 – Coping with the Loss of Her Father and Finding Purpose
17:00 – Why Grief Is Still Invisible in Higher Education
31:08 – Creating a Framework for Compassionate Universities
43:00 – Supporting Staff Well-Being & Building a Culture of Care
53:50 – Lessons, Hope & Anna’s Final Message
Resources Mentioned:
SGN main website
My creative page: Anna May
Anna's Contact Details:
Linkedin
Email: grief.programmes@kaplan.com
For more updates, follow EmpowerED:
Website: empoweredwebinars.com
X (Twitter): @MpowerEDWebinar
LinkedIn: EmpowerED Webinars
Email: info@EmpowerEDwebinars.com
29 Sept 2025
#14 Educators, Technologists and the AI Classroom: The Story Behind MA AITEL | Unfiltered by EmpowerED
This episode takes you inside the design and philosophy of the MA in Artificial Intelligence and Technology-Enhanced Learning (AITEL) — a bold new programme helping teachers and technologists co-create the future of learning. We discuss how students develop their own “classrooms of the future,” use AI tools critically, and engage with themes like social justice and digital literacy. You’ll hear practical examples, reflections on pedagogical change, and how higher education can remain deeply human — even in a world shaped by automation.
Podcast Chapters:
02:15 – Zoe’s Journey into Education & Technology
06:52 – Why the MA in AI & Technology Enhanced Learning Was Created
09:13 – Closing the Gap Between Research & Classroom Practice
13:45 – Letting Students Use AI to Write Their Essays
19:00 – Designing Curriculum for the Classroom of the Future
25:56 – Peer Collaboration Between Educators & Technologists
33:22 – Ethics, AI Literacy & Data Protection
46:25 – Zoe’s Vision for Education in the Age of AI
Resources Mentioned:
Program Details
Postgraduate Taught Programmes York's Department of Education
Zoe's Personal Web page
Zoe's Lab Page
Zoe's Contact Details:
Linkedin
For more updates, follow EmpowerED:
Website: empoweredwebinars.com
X (Twitter): @MpowerEDWebinar
LinkedIn: EmpowerED Webinars
Email: info@EmpowerEDwebinars.com
11 Aug 2025
#13 Teaching Smarter: Rethinking Assessment with Automation | Unfiltered by EmpowerED
Can automation support teaching without sacrificing quality or care? In this insightful conversation, we explore how Microsoft Power Automate and other tools are being used to tackle academic workload, improve feedback systems, and support earlier student interventions. We also touch on the creative use of technology in content design and how educators can navigate the digital shift while keeping pedagogy at the centre. A must-listen for anyone seeking scalable, humane, and effective solutions for assessment and feedback.
Podcast Chapters:02:13 – Meet Rebekah & Her Teaching Journey
03:22 – Tech Curiosity & Problem Solving
10:26 – The Pain Point that Sparked Automation
15:01 – Using Power Automate to Reclaim Teaching Time
18:25 – Student Reactions to Automated Feedback
21:19 – Saving Time Without Compromising Quality
27:17 – Scaling the Approach Across Departments
32:12 – Reducing Mental Load for Educators
53:37 – The Future of Automation in Teaching & Assessment
Resources Mentioned:
Marking Approach Toolkit
Scribe
Genially
Blooket
Adobe Express
Power Automate Toolkit (coming soon in description)
Rebekah's Contact Details:Email: r.marangon@aston.ac.uk
For more updates, follow EmpowerED:
Website: empoweredwebinars.com
X (Twitter): @MpowerEDWebinar
LinkedIn: EmpowerED Webinars
Email: info@EmpowerEDwebinars.com
23 Jun 2025
#12 Playfulness at Work? Yes, Seriously. | Unfiltered by EmpowerED
Mark Childs shares how incorporating playfulness in professional environments fosters psychological safety, enhances collaboration, and boosts engagement, making work more inclusive and creative in this interview.
12 Jun 2025
#11 Curiosity, Creativity, and Career Pathways in Digital Education | Unfiltered by EmpowerED
Adele and Pip from Birkbeck, University of London, discuss their experiences in digital education, exploring career pathways, pedagogy, and the importance of human connection in a tech-driven world in this interview.
26 May 2025
#10 Kindness as Activism: Teaching Human Skills in an AI World | Unfiltered by EmpowerED
Vic describes Kaplan Pathways' Kindness Curriculum and how it supports international students, shaping resilient learners with human skills that are essential in an AI-driven world; this is an interview episode.
10 Feb 2025
#9 Empowering Learners: How AI Tutors Are Changing Education | Unfiltered by EmpowerED
In this episode of Unfiltered by EmpowerED, Caroline talks with Kim and Patrick from Activate Learning about how they’re using AI to transform education. From creating custom AI tools like tutors and feedback assistants to ensuring ethical and secure practices, they share the steps they’ve taken to enhance both teaching and learning.
Kim and Patrick discuss striking the right balance between AI automation and human interaction, empowering students with digital skills, and fostering a growth mindset. They also highlight the importance of using AI to create equitable opportunities for learners, while keeping educators at the heart of the process.
Whether you’re an educator exploring AI’s potential or a student curious about its role in learning, this episode offers practical advice, inspiring examples, and a look at what’s next for AI in education.
Podcast Chapters:
01:58 – Meet Kim and Patrick: Using Technology to Enhance Learning
07:53 – Ethical Challenges for Building AI Tools
13:36 – How AI Tutors Support Students Anytime, Anywhere
20:44 – How to Use AI as A Tutor?
27:33 – Feedback from Staff: What’s Working?
38:56 – Advice for Future Use of AI in Education
Make sure you don't miss Kim and Patrick's presentation in our webinar! https://youtu.be/N7bJmFu-P8o
Kim and Patrick on Social Media:
Kim's Linkedin
Patrick's Linkedin
For more updates, follow EmpowerED:
Website: empoweredwebinars.com
X (Twitter): @MpowerEDWebinar
LinkedIn: EmpowerED Webinars
Email: info@EmpowerEDwebinars.com
9 Dec 2024
#8 From Classroom to Action: The Power of Student Activism in Learning | Unfiltered by EmpowerED
Lily Meller and Hedda Scharffenberger, University of Dundee alumni, share their transformative experiences with student activism, revealing its power as a pedagogical tool for deepened understanding and actionable change.
11 Nov 2024
#7 Enhancing Education: The Power of Interactive H5P Videos in Blended Learning | Unfiltered by EmpowerED
In this episode of Unfiltered by EmpowerED, we sit down with Daniel Pigou from Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University in China. Daniel, a lecturer in English for Academic Purposes shares his innovative work with H5P interactive videos. Designed to engage students and improve learning outcomes, these videos are part of a blended learning model that allows students to interact with content through gamified, quiz-like features.
Daniel discusses his journey, starting with his experiences teaching in a hybrid environment, and now focusing on creating self-study resources to build autonomy in the classroom. A highlight of the episode is Daniel’s insights on enhancing digital literacy among students and supporting fellow educators in adopting new tech tools like H5P to meet curriculum goals. He also covers the value of regular feedback, making tech tools accessible, and the challenges of balancing digital content with classroom interaction.
This episode is packed with practical advice for educators on how to enrich their blended learning offerings. Tune in to hear about Daniel’s strategies for making learning both effective and enjoyable!
Podcast Chapters
0:47 - Daniel’s Background in Education and Research4:33 - Integrating H5P Videos in Blended Learning11:46 - Using Interactivity to Boost Student Engagement12:39 - Navigating Digital Literacy Challenges14:31 - Strategies for Supporting Colleagues with New Tech17:00 - Building Consistency in Video Content Quality18:50 - Key Insights from Student Feedback21:55 - Measuring and Enhancing Engagement with H5P31:51 - Advice to Educators on Implementing Interactive Videos
33:54 - Emerging EdTech and Future Directions
35:22 - Balancing Digital and Classroom Interactions
Follow Daniel on Linkedin for more information.
Links Daniel shared in the Podcast: Learning H5P
For more updates, follow EmpowerED:
Website: empoweredwebinars.com
X (Twitter): @MpowerEDWebinar
LinkedIn: EmpowerED Webinars
Email: info@EmpowerEDwebinars.com
28 Oct 2024
#6 Learning to Lead: Student Activism as a Pedagogical Tool l Unfiltered by EmpowerED
Welcome to a new episode of Unfiltered by EmpowerED! In today’s episode, we had a chat with Edzia Carvalho, a passionate lecturer in politics and international relations at the University of Dundee. Edzia shares her groundbreaking work in integrating student activism with human rights education, offering a unique approach that empowers students to engage with human rights issues in real, impactful ways.
This episode delves into Edzia's innovative approach, focusing on experiential learning where students lead campaigns advocating for political prisoners. Edzia discusses the value of reflective analysis, the critical role of hands-on activism, and the skills students gain—from campaign planning to handling vicarious trauma. A highlight of this conversation is Edzia’s candid reflections on the challenges and triumphs of fostering activist pedagogy in an academic setting.
Tune in for an inspiring conversation about empowering students and building meaningful educational experiences.
Podcast Chapters
0:40 - Edzia’s Background in Politics and Human Rights2:00 - Student Activism in the Curriculum3:27 - Implementing Student Activism as a Pedagogical Tool6:20 - Challenges of Online Activism during COVID8:32 - Supporting Students in Campaign Development12:12 - Benefits of Activist Pedagogy on Student Development14:54 - Bridging Theory and Practice in Human Rights Education16:57 - Student-Led Campaigns for Political Prisoners19:05 - Handling Emotional Challenges in Activist Work28:28 - Roles in Campaigns37:06 - Future of Activism and AI Ethics in Education42:21 - Advice to Educators on Integrating Activism
Listen in and discover more about empowering students through activism and creating impactful learning journeys!
Follow Edzia on LinkedIn for more information.
For more updates, follow EmpowerED:
Website: empoweredwebinars.com
X (Twitter): @MpowerEDWebinar
LinkedIn: EmpowerED Webinars
Email: info@EmpowerEDwebinars.com
26 Aug 2024
About EmpowerED, Your Community | Unfiltered by EmpowerED
Welcome to "About EmpowerED, Your Community | Unfiltered by EmpowerED", the very first episode of our podcast series. In this episode, we take you behind the scenes of the EmpowerED community, introducing the passionate minds driving this initiative. You'll hear from Anshul, May, and Caroline, as we share our journeys, inspirations, and the vision that brought EmpowerED to life. Join us for an engaging and insightful conversation that showcases the collaborative spirit and innovative drive of our team.
Podcast Chapter:00:08 Introduction03:43 The Origin of EmpowerED05:00 The Power of Community06:26 May's Favourite Sessions and Takeaways15:52 Caroline's Experience as a Presenter20:09 Anshul 's Favourite Sessions and Takeaways23:04 Caroline's Favourite Sessions and Takeaways29:14 Looking Forward32:28 Closing Remarks
The Team on Social Media:Anshul Lau: https://x.com/LauAnshulCaroline Bearpark: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caroline-bearpark-97a100113/May Tsai: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chih-yu-may-tsai-196792148/
Follow us on Social Media!Website: https://empoweredwebinars.com/X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/MpowerEDWebinarLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/empoweredwebinarsEmail: Info@EmpowerEDwebinars.com
22 Aug 2024
#05 Setting the Standard - How to Clarify Course Expectations Effectively - Unfiltered by EmpowerED
Welcome to a new episode of Unfiltered by EmpowerED! In today's episode, we're thrilled to welcome Geeta Hitch from the University of Sunderland in London. Geeta serves as a Lecturer in Public Health and brings a wealth of experience in academic pharmacy and educational development.
Geeta shares her journey through various universities, her passion for teaching, and her innovative approach to setting clear expectations for students. She delves into the importance of diagnostic tests, scaffolding learning experiences, and the impact of digital literacy on student success. A major highlight of this episode is the discussion on inclusive teaching practices and how to bridge the gap in students' digital skills.
Whether you're an educator seeking strategies to enhance student engagement or someone interested in the evolving landscape of education, this episode is packed with valuable insights. Tune in to hear about Geeta's journey, her collaborative efforts, and the methods she's developed to ensure effective learning and teaching.
Podcast Chapters
0:45 - Introduction
1:33 - Geeta's Background and Role at the University of Sunderland in London
4:19 - Inspiration Behind Focusing on Student Learning and Setting Expectations
06:05 - Implementing Diagnostic Tests for Pharmacy Students
10:55 - Adapting Teaching Methods for Future Technological Changes
12:50 - Bringing Up Students' Digital Skills
19:12 - Ensuring Accessibility and Inclusivity in Learning Materials
23:18 - Advice to the Practitioners
24:47 - Closing Remarks
Make sure you don't miss Geeta's presentation in our webinar! https://youtu.be/QUH7nSiUUKA?si=-qbUFNVzBSHu9PCs
Geeta Hitch on Social Media: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/geeta-hitch-97ab41a1/
Follow us on Social Media!
Website: https://empoweredwebinars.com/
X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/MpowerEDWebinar
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/empoweredwebinars
Email: Info@EmpowerEDwebinars.com
5 Aug 2024
#04 Empowering Educators The Journey from Star to Legend in Digital Skills | Unfiltered by EmpowerED
In today’s episode, we’re excited to welcome Caroline Bearpark from the University of Sunderland in London. Caroline serves as an eLearning Coordinator and brings a wealth of experience in academic development and learning design. Caroline will share insights into her role, the innovative projects she’s leading and her experiences with implementing digital tools and instructional design principles. A major highlight of this episode is the discussion on the ”Star to Legend” programme, which aims to empower educators by enhancing their digital skills and transforming their teaching practices.
31 Jul 2024
#03 Shaping the Future Enhancing VLEs with AI and Real Student Insight | Unfiltered by EmpowerED
Join us as John shares his insights on the evolution of digital learning environments, the unique approach of Hibernia College in delivering blended learning programmes, and the role of technology in shaping the future of education. We’ll discuss how Hibernia College uses online tools and feedback systems to enhance student learning experiences and the challenges they face in supporting users with digital platforms like Moodle.
31 Jul 2024
#02 Navigating the AI Job Landscape: Preparing Graduates for Tomorrow | Unfiltered by EmpowerED
Join us as we discuss with experts from the University of Westminster - Ioannis Glinavos - the critical skills that graduates need to develop to stand out in an AI-driven job market. We'll uncover how AI is influencing job availability across fields, the evolution of job search mechanisms with AI tools, and the ethical implications of this digital transformation.
31 Jul 2024
#01 Teaching Unfiltered - Strategies to Engage Non-Specialist Audiences | Unfiltered by EmpowerED
Teaching a subject area to those who are not specialists can be a challenge. In this episode, we explore the art and science of making your subject accessible to all. From activity-based learning to the integration of technology enhanced learning approaches, we uncover the strategies that empower learning and teaching beyond traditional boundaries.
Who has been a guest on Unfiltered by EmpowerED: Educators’ Voices Uncut
Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.
Mark Childs
Adele
Pip
Vic
Podcast Authority Score: 7 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
13
Social presence
0
YouTube
0
Engagement
0
Contact Unfiltered by EmpowerED: Educators’ Voices Uncut
Guest appearances
Does not typically book guests
Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.
Host of Unfiltered by EmpowerED: Educators’ Voices Uncut?
Claim your podcast to manage its listing and keep your show details accurate.
Pod Engine is an independent podcast discovery and analytics service and is not affiliated with or endorsed by this podcast. Artwork and show content belong to their owners. Full legal notice.
Explore this show Podcast research with Pod Engine
