Episodes

  • 052: Microlearning: Small Lessons, Big Impact with Tiana Fech

    052: Microlearning: Small Lessons, Big Impact with Tiana Fech
    Jan 28 2025
    In this episode of The People Teaching People Podcast, we’re diving into microlearning - an innovative way to teach and share knowledge in small, digestible chunks. Whether you’re a teacher, corporate trainer, coach, or content creator, microlearning offers a way to engage your audience, improve knowledge retention, and make learning accessible for today’s fast-paced world. We’ll explore what microlearning is, why it works so well, and how you can incorporate it into your teaching or training strategies. From boosting engagement to sparking curiosity, this episode is packed with actionable tips and ideas to help you make a big impact through small lessons. Make sure you get your FREE Guide: Teaching Tool - Microlearning Listen in as we talk about: 02:13 What is microlearning? 04:35 Why should you care about microlearning? 09:40 Microlearning in different settings and contexts 13:21 When should you use microlearning (and when not to) 14:35 Microlearning strategies 19:13 How to apply microlearning effectively 22:01 Microlearning reflection questions Connect with Tiana: Website: https://tianafech.com LinkedIn: Tiana Fech Instagram: @tianafech Facebook: @tianafech Book: Online Course Creation 101: A step-by-step guide to creating your first online course WHAT IS MICROLEARNING? "Small wins are incredibly motivating because they create a sense of progress and accomplishment, even when the end goal feels far away." Microlearning is about delivering information in small, focused chunks. Think of it like eating an elephant - one bite at a time. Whether it’s a short video, an Instagram carousel, or a single slide in a training session, microlearning breaks complex topics into digestible pieces that are less overwhelming and more impactful. Breaking learning into small, manageable steps makes it easier to absorb and apply new knowledge. WHY SHOULD YOU CARE ABOUT MICROLEARNING? Microlearning fits seamlessly into our digital world, making it accessible anytime, anywhere. It boosts retention by focusing on one concept at a time and sparks curiosity by giving learners just enough to keep them coming back for more. Studies show it can improve knowledge retention by up to 80% and increase engagement by 50% in business contexts. Microlearning is an effective way to meet learners where they are while keeping them engaged and motivated. MICROLEARNING IN DIFFERENT SETTINGS AND CONTEXTS Microlearning blurs the lines between formal and informal learning, supports self-directed learning, and makes it possible to learn on the go. It’s a perfect fit for today’s busy world, allowing learners to fit education into their schedules and retain knowledge better by focusing on key points. Microlearning empowers learners to take control of their education and thrive in diverse settings. WHEN TO USE MICROLEARNING (AND WHEN NOT TO) Microlearning is ideal for teaching clear, simple ideas, sparking curiosity, or reinforcing larger lessons. However, it’s not the best approach for complex topics requiring deep understanding or hands-on practice. Use microlearning strategically to deliver focused, impactful lessons—but recognize when a more in-depth approach is needed. MICROLEARNING STRATEGIES Try these six microlearning strategies: Question-Answer: Pose a question and share a quick, clear answer to spark curiosity. 3-Steps: Break a task into three easy steps for simplicity and clarity. Micro-Scenario: Use real-life situations to encourage decision-making. 1-Minute Knowledge Snack: Share quick, actionable tips learners can use immediately. Interactive: Involve learners through polls, quizzes, or discussions. Quick Challenge: Give a task learners can complete right away to apply their knowledge. Microlearning strategies are versatile and can be tailored to fit any teaching or training context. HOW TO APPLY MICROLEARNING EFFECTIVELY Here are six tips to make microlearning work for you: Focus on one idea at a time.
    Show more Show less
    23 mins
  • 051: The Building Blocks of Software Development with Paisley Churchill

    051: The Building Blocks of Software Development with Paisley Churchill
    Jan 14 2025
    In this episode of The People Teaching People Podcast, I am joined by Paisley Churchill. Paisley is one of my incredible clients – and when I say ‘incredible,’ I truly mean it. We started working together this fall to create an online, self-directed course. From the start, Paisley impressed me with her deep knowledge, diverse and rich life experiences, and her warm, engaging personality. She’s not only fun to work with, but her commitment to crafting a high-impact learning experience for her students is unparalleled. What’s more, Paisley’s work ethic is second to none. As with all of my clients, I’ve learned so much from her throughout this process. It’s been an absolute pleasure collaborating with Paisley! Paisley Churchill has worked with hundreds of companies, from startups to established businesses, helping them bring their software visions to life. With experience in economic development, supporting a $100M fund, and launching over 30 custom software projects, Paisley has seen firsthand how costly mistakes happen when founders don’t know what they don’t know. Drawing on her extensive background in custom software development, consulting, and entrepreneurship, Paisley founded The Tech Translator to empower non-technical founders and business leaders. Through The Tech Translator, Paisley offers comprehensive courses designed to break down the software development process. These courses help participants reduce frustrations, avoid costly missteps, and confidently lead their projects from concept to completion. By demystifying the development journey, founders will be equipped with the knowledge and tools to collaborate more effectively with their tech teams and bring their software ideas to life. The curriculum covers essential tech terms, software development methodologies, monetization strategies, and effective communication techniques. It also provides a structured framework for creating a product map, enabling participants to communicate their needs clearly with their development teams. By bridging the gap between business vision and technical execution, Paisley helps founders save time, money, and headaches, ensuring their product visions come to life smoothly and successfully. Listen in as we talk about: 03:49 Paisley's journey into tech 06:59 Bridging the tech knowledge gap 10:40 Challenges for non-technical founders 14:02 Bringing software to life for learners 22:00 The key building blocks of software development 25:33 The real cost of app development 29:21 Turning your app idea into reality 33:00 Tech myths and misconceptions 35:56 Learning beyond the classroom 39:00 Perseverance pays off 40:20 Paisley answers some rapid-fire questions 45:10 The power of bite-sized learning Connect with Paisley: Website: https://www.techtranslator.ca/ LinkedIn: Paisley Churchill The Tech Translator Instagram: @the_tech_translator Connect with Tiana: Website: https://tianafech.com LinkedIn: Tiana Fech Instagram: @tianafech Facebook: @tianafech Book: Online Course Creation 101: A step-by-step guide to creating your first online course PAISLEY’S JOURNEY INTO TECH Paisley’s journey into the tech world began with a love for business that took root during her university years. She joined social entrepreneurship clubs and quickly became fascinated by how businesses work, from understanding markets to crafting the right product. This early passion eventually led her to work with a variety of tech companies, helping them bring strategy and product development together. She also played a key role in Calgary’s economic development, helping to position the city as a tech hub. While Paisley didn’t initially see herself as a "tech" person, she recognized that a strong business foundation rather than technical expertise alone was key to succeeding in the digital age. Her career evolved from startups to consulting, where she now helps entrepreneurs and companies build and refine their products. For Paisley,
    Show more Show less
    45 mins
  • 050: Building My Most Authentic Life with Fede Vargas

    050: Building My Most Authentic Life with Fede Vargas
    Dec 17 2024
    Is it time to redefine what success looks like for you? Many of us reach a point where we feel the need to reassess our paths and find true alignment in our lives. In this episode of The People Teaching People Podcast, I am joined by Fede Vargas. Fede is a leader in podcasting, leveraging over 15 years of experience in sales and distribution within the media and entertainment industry. He is the founder of My Most Authentic Life, a platform and podcast dedicated to exploring transformative changes and unconventional paths. Fede has taken the stage at premier podcasting events such as Podcast Movement Evolutions in Los Angeles and PodSummit YYC 2024, and he has attended industry-leading events, including the Podcast Upfronts in New York City. Born in Mexico and raised in Canada, Fede brings a unique global perspective to his work. He has lived in Europe, traveled extensively across Asia Pacific and Latin America, and is fluent in both English and Spanish. Now based in Toronto, Canada, he focuses on sharing meaningful stories and fostering connections through podcasting. Fede is an alumnus of the Podcast Incubator at Stony Brook University in New York, the Screenwriting Residency at the Canadian Film Centre, and holds a degree from The Creative School at Toronto Metropolitan University. Listen in as we talk about: 03:09 Fede's story 05:05 Getting in the room at community building events 07:11 Unconventional paths and redefining success 11:14 Building My Most Authentic Life 15:02 Misconceptions of unconventional paths 17:25 Leaning into the unknown 20:41 Authenticity and vulnerability 22:00 Authenticity - the power of alignment 23:08 Podcasting and leadership 28:22 Impact and influence through podcasting 30:18 Life changes and mental health 34:22 The impact of mentorship 37:20 What Fede is most proud of 38:39 Fede answers some rapid-fire questions 40:17 Words of wisdom Connect with Fede: Website: https://www.mymostauthenticlife.com/ LinkedIn: Fede Vargas - My Most Authentic Life Instagram: @mymostauthenticlife TikTok: @mymostauthenticlife Podcast: My Most Authentic Life Shared by Fede: Podcast: School of Greatness with host Lewis Howes Episode 789: Learning to Lead with John Maxwell Podcast: How to Be a Better Human with host Chris Duffy Episode: How to develop the habits you want – and get rid of the ones you don’t with James Clear Connect with Tiana: Website: https://tianafech.com LinkedIn: Tiana Fech Instagram: @tianafech Facebook: @tianafech Book: Online Course Creation 101: A step-by-step guide to creating your first online course LEANING INTO THE UNKNOWN Taking the leap into uncertainty can feel daunting, but it’s all about those small, meaningful steps forward. Whether it's starting yoga or embarking on a personal growth journey, the key is to get started, even if it’s imperfect. Fede shares how working with a life coach helped him embrace the unknown, learning to focus on progress over perfection. The heart of your work - the genuine intention behind it - will resonate with others more than the flawless execution. It’s easy to get caught up in tweaking and perfecting, but sometimes you just need to release things into the world, even if they aren't “perfect.” Looking back at his early podcast episodes, Fede appreciates how those raw beginnings still held the essential spark, reminding us that the core of what we create is what truly matters. The heart of your work is more important than perfection - embrace imperfection and take that first step. AUTHENTICITY - THE POWER OF ALIGNMENT “Alignment has so many positive aspects of it. Being present feels like home. It feels comfortable. And when you feel like you're at home, when you feel comfortable, then your most authentic self can shine through.” Authenticity is often seen as a lofty ideal, but at its core, it’s about alignment - when your actions, thoughts, and energy are all in harmony. Fede shares that being aligned feels like coming h...
    Show more Show less
    45 mins
  • 049: Indigenous Voices and Stories with Tchadas Leo

    049: Indigenous Voices and Stories with Tchadas Leo
    Dec 3 2024
    In this episode of The People Teaching People Podcast, I am joined by Tchadas Leo. Tchadas is an Indigenous TV Journalist, Podcaster, TV host, Actor, Producer and Documentarian based on Vancouver Island. His Indigenous lineage belongs with the Homalco First Nation and the Stillaguamish Tribe of Indians. He also has Peruvian & Argentinian ancestry. Tchadas has been with the CHEK Media group, with his multi-national award-winning podcast and TV show known as Our Native Land, since 2020. These accolades include 2022 Canadian Podcast Awards’ Indigenous podcast of the year and 2023 Amazon Music's top podcasts of the year. His talk show/podcast focuses on all things Indigenous from Vancouver Island and across Canada. In 2023, Tchadas joined the CHEK News team as a full-time Journalist and recently became the first Coast Salish person to Anchor a newscast on Coast Salish territory. In 2024 Tchadas received the Broadcast Performer of Tomorrow award from the BCAB (British Columbia Association of Broadcasters) and the 2024 RTDNA (Radio Television Digital News Association) emerging journalist award honoring his work in journalism and anchoring. On top of several podcasts and local TV production projects, Tchadas works with Orca Cove Media as an Executive Producer to help create and develop Indigenous TV series for a major television network. Listen in as we talk about: 03:30 Tchadas' media journey 08:21 Building community through podcasting 13:10 Preserving Indigenous language, stories, and history 18:10 Reconnecting with Indigenous roots and community 20:25 Building relationships with Indigenous communities 24:14 The power of listening 25:15 Storytelling for healing and reconciliation 30:20 Behind the challenges of Indigenous storytelling 33:30 What’s coming up next for Tchadas 36:54 Lessons from key mentors 40:15 Being authentic 41:33 Tchadas answers some rapid-fire questions 43:19 Embracing lifelong learning Connect with Tchadas: Website: https://tchadasleo.ca/ LinkedIn: Tchadas Leo Instagram: @tchadas_leo Facebook: @tchadas.leo Podcasts: https://tchadasleo.ca/hosted/ Our Native Land Remember: Our People | Our History: Recordings of Elders Explored Indigenous Voices of Vancouver Island Connect with Tiana: Website: https://tianafech.com LinkedIn: Tiana Fech Instagram: @tianafech Facebook: @tianafech Book: Online Course Creation 101: A step-by-step guide to creating your first online course TCHADAS’ MEDIA JOURNEY Tchadas’ journey into the media world started at just 12 years old when he picked up a camera and fell in love with filmmaking. A chance encounter with a local nonprofit TV station led him to volunteer, and by 16, he was one of the youngest associate producers at Shaw. However, his path took several unexpected turns. After studying digital media, he found himself working in the car industry, followed by the hospitality industry - and then COVID hit, prompting a deep reflection on his true passion. With the support of his wife, he returned to his media roots, commuting from Vancouver Island to mainland British Columbia to study and eventually landing a journalism job at CHEK TV. Reflecting on his career, Tchadas emphasizes that it’s okay to take detours and that success often comes from circling back to what you truly love. Sometimes, finding your path means trying out many different roads before realizing where you truly belong. BUILDING COMMUNITY THROUGH PODCASTING At PodSummit YYC 2024 in Calgary, Tchadas shared his experience of connecting with other podcasters and how events like these play a vital role in growing the podcasting community, especially for Indigenous voices. He was drawn to the summit after noticing a lack of Indigenous representation and offered to lend his expertise, leading to an invitation to speak. Tchadas highlighted the power of in-person gatherings for fostering collaboration, sharing knowledge, and supporting newcomers to the podcasting world.
    Show more Show less
    46 mins
  • 048: Playing, Learning and Connecting in Occupational Therapy with Emily Lee

    048: Playing, Learning and Connecting in Occupational Therapy with Emily Lee
    Nov 19 2024
    In this episode of The People Teaching People Podcast, I am joined by Emily Lee. Emily is a registered Occupational Therapist, and Board Certified Behaviour Analyst. She is passionate about working with autistic children and their families and continues to dive deeply into her own ongoing learning about interventions that can support her clients. Since graduating from a Bachelor's degree in OT at the University of Toronto (2002), she has also completed her Masters of Rehabilitation Sciences at UBC (2017) and a graduate diploma in Behavioural Analysis from the Florida Institute of Technology (2022). Her family regularly teases her about her never-ending education adventures! Emily currently works as the OT Clinic Lead for a non-profit organization in Vancouver called Nurture Society for Learning and Development, where lots of fun OTs, SLPs (Speech-Language Pathologists) and Therapy Assistants provide early intervention for kids with a variety of support needs. She spends lots of time thinking about play and specifically how to support kids in learning how to spontaneously initiate their own ideas in play and initiate new motor and self care skills. She's a keen advocate for finding creative ways to build supports for kids so that they can find meaning and joy in the things they do everyday, so that their family and helpers can support them with confidence and so that the environments they journey through are kinder, more supportive and, frankly, more fun. In her free time, Emily plays board games, cooks and hikes with her husband, Ryan, and teenagers, Eloise and Lawrence. She loves summer swims in the ocean and playing in the woods. Listen in as we talk about: 5:08 Lessons from nature and community at Pearson College 10:23 From childhood play to occupational therapy 21:14 The heart of occupational therapy 24:27 The power of connections in learning 30:00 Relationship building in occupational therapy 37:02 Fostering creativity through play 41:08 Teaching and learning together with families 44:25 Emily’s favourite teachers 46:09 What Emily is most proud of 48:07 Emily answers some rapid-fire questions 50:40 Embracing mistakes as learning opportunities Connect with Emily and learn more about the Nurture Society for Learning and Development: Website: https://nurturelearn.ca/ LinkedIn: Emily Lee Instagram: @nurture.learning Facebook: @nurturelearn Video Resource: Autism Community Training SLP and OT Support for Autistic Children & Families An Introduction from Nurture Learning and Development ~ Presented by Kate Chase, PhD, SLP, BCBA & Emily Lee, OT, BCBA Online Learning Platform: The Nurture Parent Path Connect with Tiana: Website: https://tianafech.com LinkedIn: Tiana Fech Instagram: @tianafech Facebook: @tianafech Book: Online Course Creation 101: A step-by-step guide to creating your first online course LESSONS FROM NATURE AND COMMUNITY AT PEARSON COLLEGE Emily reflects on her transformative experience at Pearson College, describing it as a magical and humbling shift from a large public school in Toronto to a small, tight-knit community nestled in the woods. Living in this intimate environment with just 200 students, she learned the value of diverse perspectives and how connecting with people who don't think like you can be both enriching and inspiring. The community aspect, coupled with the beauty of living in a rainforest, left a lasting impression on her, influencing her love for nature. She also highlights the rigorous academic challenges which taught her resilience and the importance of adaptability. Ultimately, Pearson College was not just about academics but about finding balance in a world of differing ideas, creating lasting relationships, and embracing personal growth. Surrounding yourself with diverse perspectives can shape who you are and inspire new ways of thinking. FROM CHILDHOOD PLAY TO OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY Emily's journey to becoming an occupational therapist (OT) was shaped by a mix o...
    Show more Show less
    53 mins
  • 047: Nurturing and Inspiring Lifelong Learners with Miss Anne

    047: Nurturing and Inspiring Lifelong Learners with Miss Anne
    Nov 5 2024
    In this episode of The People Teaching People Podcast, I am joined by Miss Anne Goresht, former host of the children's television show Romper Room and author of “I Am a Big Brother with a Superpower”. Miss Anne shares her journey from hosting Romper Room, a pioneering educational children's show, to becoming an author and a passionate advocate for children's reading and learning. She details her surprising path to becoming the host of Romper Room, emphasizes the importance of storytelling and education in her life, and discusses her new book aimed at helping children adjust to new siblings. Miss Anne also talks about the process of writing her book and collaborating with illustrator Karen Argue, as well as her plans to write a memoir and another children's book focused on empathy. Before becoming an author, Miss Anne was the beloved host of the children's television show, Romper Room, which aired from 1953 to 1994. The popular show was best known for its interactive format, with Miss Anne leading children through various educational activities and games. Romper Room was ground-breaking in its approach to children's media, emphasizing education and socialization in a fun, engaging way. Like an all-time favourite school teacher forever ingrained in a child's memory, Miss Anne has had an enormous impact on many children. She paved the way for several popular TV shows—Sesame Street, Mister Rogers' Neighbourhood, and The Friendly Giant. Combining her unique experiences and gift for teaching children, Miss Anne entertains and captures her young audience with compassion and humour with her book I am a Big Brother with a Superpower. Once again, children's imaginations are stimulated through relatable characters and colourful illustrations. After all, she has forever believed that children's books should be entertaining and educational, providing young readers with valuable life lessons. In addition to writing books, Miss Anne regularly visited the YMCA to share her love of reading and storytelling with children. She believes that every child has the potential to become a lifelong reader and hopes to inspire a new generation of book lovers. Listen in as we talk about: 03:00 Becoming the host of Romper Room 08:35 A most memorable moment on Romper Room 10:43 Becoming an author - at 91 years young! 12:30 Collaborating with Illustrator Karen Argue 14:46 The journey of writing a book 18:36 Choosing joy and fun 19:58 The magic of storytelling 25:01 Advice for aspiring authors and educators 31:14 Miss Anne’s words of wisdom Learn more about Miss Anne: Website: https://miss-anne.getresponsesite.com/ YouTube: About the Book: I Am A Big Brother With A Superpower Book: I Am A Big Brother With A Superpower Connect with Tiana: Website: https://tianafech.com LinkedIn: Tiana Fech Instagram: @tianafech Facebook: @tianafech Book: Online Course Creation 101: A step-by-step guide to creating your first online course BECOMING THE HOST OF ROMPER ROOM During a playdate with a friend and her children, Miss Anne heard on the radio that Romper Room was looking for a new host. Initially skeptical, but encouraged by her friend and husband, she decided to pursue the opportunity. After getting her hair done in a beehive hairstyle, she attended the interview and audition. Ultimately, she was offered the job, marking the start of a magical journey. Embracing unexpected opportunities can lead to exciting new chapters in life! A MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT ON ROMPER ROOM Miss Anne fondly recalls a memorable Easter episode of Romper Room when she took the initiative to bring in two rabbits from the zoo, thinking her director might forget. As she introduced the bunnies while singing a cheerful song, one rabbit quickly hopped on top of the other, leading to an unexpected but hilarious moment on camera. Viewers were delighted, and the switchboard lit up with calls from fathers eager to get a bunny from the show. Instead of flustering,
    Show more Show less
    34 mins
  • 046: Eco-Friendly Cleaning and Community Spirit with Monika Scott and Robyn Mair of Mint Cleaning Products

    046: Eco-Friendly Cleaning and Community Spirit with Monika Scott and Robyn Mair of Mint Cleaning Products
    Oct 22 2024
    In this episode of The People Teaching People Podcast, I am joined by Monika Scott and Robyn Mair, co-founders of Mint Cleaning Products. I first learned about Mint Cleaning Products when I was at a local coffee shop and community hub - called Social Grounds - in the community of Oakridge in Calgary, Alberta. Social Grounds also sells snacks and ice cream, hosts art classes and fitness classes, and sells products made by local and Canadian small businesses. Long story short - one of the friends that I was attending the fitness class with was raving about these Mint Cleaning Products - how awesome they were and how good they smelled! I got curious and looked into the brand and the story behind it and low and behold I learned about Monika and Robyn and their incredible (and inspiring) story. Monika and Robyn, the founders of Mint Cleaning Products, met in 2016 through a local mom group. The pair bonded immediately and even decided to start a cleaning business together the next day. What began as a small cleaning service in Ucluelet, BC, quickly grew into an overnight success. However, after suffering the side effects of using harsh chemical cleaners every day, they began to experiment and create their own eco-friendly, plant-based, non-toxic products. Today, Mint Cleaning Products is known across Canada for its innovative and effective solutions, available in over 200 retail stores and refilleries. With a commitment to quality, environmental responsibility, and a personal touch, Monika and Robyn have turned Mint into a trusted brand that brings green cleaning to every home. Listen in as we talk about: 03:07 The birth of a friendship and business 04:24 Business challenges and innovation 07:23 Entrepreneurial backgrounds 10:20 Key lessons in growing a business 15:30 Exciting experiences and accolades - The Jilly Box, Dragon’s Den and more! 16:58 The importance of community 19:30 Behind the scenes of Dragon’s Den 25:35 Harnessing the opportunity of social media 28:40 Building a community through education 32:29 The juggle of business and motherhood 35:47 Nurturing a strong partnership 38:30 Giving back to the community 40:35 What’s next for Mint Cleaning Products! 43:00 Robyn and Monika’s favorite teachers 44:35 What Robyn and Monika are most proud of 45:59 Robyn and Monika’s words of wisdom Learn more about Monika and Robyn and Mint Cleaning Products: Website: https://mintcleaningproducts.com/ Instagram: @mintcleaning_ YouTube: Mint Cleaning Products TikTok: @mintcleaning_ LinkedIn: Robyn Mair Mint Cleaning Products Facebook: Mint Cleaning Products Resources: Free Cleaning Checklists and Guides Book: Swap It for Mint - An Eco-Friendly Guide to a Clean Home Guide: Guest Turnover Cleaning Guide Mint Retail Store: Unit 3 #1950 Peninsula Rd, Ucluelet B.C. 1-250-726-6468 Connect with Tiana: Website: https://tianafech.com LinkedIn: Tiana Fech Instagram: @tianafech Facebook: @tianafech Book: Online Course Creation 101: A step-by-step guide to creating your first online course KEY LESSONS IN GROWING A BUSINESS Monika and Robyn share invaluable insights from their entrepreneurial journey, highlighting the power of adaptability. They discuss the necessity of pivoting in response to unexpected challenges, like the pandemic, and how learning through trial and error has shaped their business. The duo emphasizes the importance of cultivating a positive work culture and engaging authentically with their community, even transforming setbacks - like the wrong sized packaging - into opportunities - like giving back to a local charity. Their story illustrates that mistakes can foster growth and connection, making the business journey both rewarding and enjoyable. Embrace your missteps as stepping stones to success, and always keep a sense of humor along the way! THE IMPORTANCE OF COMMUNITY Monika and Robyn emphasize the profound impact of community in their entrepreneurial journey.
    Show more Show less
    50 mins
  • 045: Student Engagement in Applied Research with Jamie McInnis and Teresa Bent

    045: Student Engagement in Applied Research with Jamie McInnis and Teresa Bent
    Oct 8 2024
    In this episode of The People Teaching People Podcast, I am joined by Jamie McInnis and Teresa Bent to discuss their roles and the exciting innovation and work happening in the Applied Research and Innovation Services (ARIS) Hub at SAIT, the Southern Institute of Technology, in Calgary, Alberta. Jamie McInnis, the Director of the ARIS Hub at SAIT, has 20 years experience managing and leading research teams in an entrepreneurial, post-secondary environment. She demonstrates excellence in overseeing stakeholder relations between government, industry, Indigenous and post-secondary partners to facilitate the strategic execution and management of fundamental and applied industry-driven research projects in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math). SAIT’s Applied Research and Innovation Services is a driving force behind Alberta’s cutting-edge research landscape. The 77,000 square foot state-of-the-art research labs and facilities are fueled by a dynamic team of 80+ research experts dedicated to providing services and solutions to organizations. Teresa Bent, a past SAIT grad and business owner, has an extensive 34 year background in the field of education. Along with her classroom experience, she was an educational leader and coach in Literacy education, English language learning and Inclusive education. After receiving her Masters in 21st Century Educational Leadership from the University of Calgary she went on to teach at Werklund School of Education. Her other leadership experiences include 25 years both locally and nationally with a non-profit organization. Currently, she is excited to be one of two Academic Engagement Facilitators with the ARIS Hub at SAIT helping to build relationships among the research centers and academic schools and working to create a framework for student engagement in applied research. Listen in as we talk about: 03:48 Jamie and Teresa’s stories 06:25 What is the ARIS Hub? 07:18 Applied research in the ARIS Hub 08:47 Applied research vs. fundamental research 10:50 Student engagement in applied research 18:37 Creating a framework for student engagement 23:48 The importance of mentorship 25:40 Lessons learned from student engagement 28:30 Collaborative growth in student engagement 30:48 Jamie and Teresa’s words of wisdom Learn more about SAIT and the ARIS Hub: Websites: SAIT: https://www.sait.ca/ ARIS: https://www.sait.ca/research-and-innovation-services LinkedIn: SAIT ARIS Instagram: @sait Facebook: @sait Connect with Tiana: Website: https://tianafech.com LinkedIn: Tiana Fech Instagram: @tianafech Facebook: @tianafech Book: Online Course Creation 101: A step-by-step guide to creating your first online course WHAT IS THE ARIS HUB? Jamie describes the ARIS Hub at SAIT, as a dynamic applied research center that tackles real-world challenges across four key areas: green building, materials and manufacturing, drone technology, and clean energy solutions. Rather than focusing on fundamental research, the hub is all about creating novel, industry-driven solutions with quick turnaround times. They even engage in social innovation projects, like ensuring medical supplies reach remote communities. By addressing pressing needs and pushing the envelope on sustainability, the ARIS hub is paving the way for a greener and more efficient future. At the ARIS Hub, practical innovation transforms challenges into sustainable solutions that benefit everyone. APPLIED VS. FOUNDATIONAL RESEARCH Jamie highlights the distinct yet complementary missions of fundamental research at universities and the applied focus at SAIT. While universities thrive on the curiosity-driven exploration of complex topics, SAIT takes that foundational knowledge and channels it into practical solutions for current industry and community challenges. By collaborating closely with partners to identify pressing issues - what’s keeping them up at night - SAIT is able to deliver rapid results through shorter research t...
    Show more Show less
    34 mins