ResEdChat Ep 126: Sober Spaces in Higher Ed: A New Path for Student Wellness

In this episode of Roompact's ResEdChat, host Jas Nettles is joined by Hayley, the Recovery Program manager at Baylor. Recovery programs on college campuses aren't new but have definitely become more of trend that's designed to support students recovering from substance use disorders (SUDs). These programs, often part of student affairs or wellness initiatives, provide resources such as peer support, counseling, sober living spaces, and recovery-friendly social events. They aim to create a supportive environment that enables students to maintain their recovery while pursuing academic and personal goals.

ResEdChat Ep 125: Confidence in the Chaos: Supporting New Pros Through Crisis

In this episode of Roompact's ResEdChat, Crystal talks with Dr. Joshua Maxwell, Director of University Housing at Colorado State University, about crisis response in residence life. They discuss his research on entry-level professionals and what shapes their responses to crises, from environmental factors to training to self-awareness. The conversation offers practical insights for both new professionals and those who lead them.

ResEdChat Ep 123: It’s All Greek to Me: Supporting FSL Affiliated Students on Campus

In this episode of Roompact's ResEdChat, join our host Noah Montague, and Guest Carter Roane, Resident Director at Miami University of Ohio, to talk about all things Greek Life, that is Fraternities and Sororities. Affiliated students have unique campus experiences and when they live in the halls, those experiences become all the more complex, exciting, and stigmatized. Noah and Carter explore fraternity and sorority life, discuss supporting students who are affiliated, share impactful stories, and provide practical advice to Residence Life Staff working with the Greek community.

ResEdChat Ep 122: Living Learning Communities, The Ultimate Learning Partnership

In this episode of Roompact's ResEdChat, join Noah and Tristan Morton to talk about Living Learning Communities (LLCs) and how they can be implemented to assist with community and identity development. Noah and Tristan explore different LLCs, structures, and theories as they relate to the topic at hand, share impactful stories, and provide practical advice to Residence Life Staff.

ResEdChat Ep 121: The Superhero Complex in Student Affairs

In this episode of Roompact's ResEdChat, we will be discuss "The Superhero Complex in Student Affairs." The superhero complex refers to a mindset where student affairs professionals feel the need to "save the day" constantly—taking on excessive responsibilities, overworking, and sacrificing personal well-being in the name of student support. This can stem from a deep commitment to student success but often leads to burnout, lack of boundaries, and an unhealthy work culture where self-sacrifice is the norm.

ResEdChat Ep 120: Yes, You’ve Got This: Fighting Imposter Syndrome in ResLife

Ever feel like you're faking it in housing? In this episode of ResEdChat, Crystal chats with Dr. A.J. Lauer, from Thriving Ibis Leadership Solutions, about imposter syndrome, identity, and the pressures of being the “expert” in res life. Tune in for real talk, empowering tips, and a reminder that yes, you belong here. If you have a topic idea or want to engage in the community discussion, use the hashtag #ResEdChat.

ResEdChat Ep 118: Reflecting on Transitions In and Out of Residence Life with Dr. Cory Shapiro

In this episode of Roompact's ResEdChat, Dustin is chatting with Cory about his career journey in a variety of roles across different functional areas, many of which have been at the same institution. Cory shares reflections and advice on how best to determine what it is your looking for professionally, the value of finding a good mentor, and leveraging different resources to ensure you're making sound decisions about your career.

ResEdChat Ep 117: Challenge and Support: Growth Minded Supervision of Resident Assistants

In this episode of ResEdChat, join Noah and Nick Stanford, Senior Academic Advisor at Miami University's College of Engineering and Computing to talk about RA supervision and the concept of "challenge and support" as it relates to that conversation. They discuss challenging RAs to grow as individuals and people, the intricacies of that work, share impactful stories, and offer practical advice for helping RAs not only be successful at their jobs but to grow as students and people as well.

ResEdChat Ep 116: Staying Connected to Your Work! with Bernard Nichols

In student affairs, especially Housing and Residence Life, we do what I like to call "shadow work"—outside the classroom, in late-night conversations, in the spaces where students grow into themselves. In this episode of Roompact's ResEdChat, Host Jasmine Nettles and guest Bernard Nichols talk about understanding "why" we do what we do, what keeps us going, and how our personal values and lived experiences have shaped the way we show up for students.

ResEdChat Ep 115: Sacred Spaces: Supporting Spirituality and Meaning-Making in Campus Housing

Supporting students and staff in their spiritual and meaning-making journeys is an important but often overlooked part of residence life.  In this episode of ResEdChat, Crystal sits down with Dr. Cherjanét Lenzy, Associate Provost for Student Life & Thriving at Fielding Graduate University, and they explore how housing professionals can navigate conversations around religion, spirituality, and meaning-making and build partnerships that enhance the residential experience.

ResEdChat Ep 114: Storytelling with Data: Engaging Residential Staff in Assessment Practices

In this episode of Roompact's ResEdChat, we rebroadcast a past webinar discussing storytelling through data and assessment with panelists from the University of South Carolina and University of South Florida. Through this session, the panelists explore best practices to collect, interpret, and present data to campus partners and departmental leadership to create buy-in and provide the “why” to students and staff. Additionally, panelists share how innovative curriculum assessment strategies can enhance the student experience and support departmental and institutional priorities.

ResEdChat Ep 113: Strategies for Transitioning from a Residential to a Divisional Curriculum

We're pleased to welcome Erin to the show this week to have her share reflections on the work at University of Oklahoma did over the past few years to expand their residential curriculum to their entire division of student affairs. She examines how to identify and take advantage of windows of opportunity for change making and the ways to leverage communities to keep ourselves afloat in turbulent times.

ResEdChat Ep 112: Dollars & Decisions: Budgets and Financial Management in Housing

In this episode of Roompact's ResEdChat, Crystal sits down with Dr. T.J. Logan, Executive Director at Brailsford & Dunlavey,  to break down the financial side of residence life and housing—demystifying common budget terms, sharing best practices, and exploring how financial transparency can strengthen your team.  Whether you're just starting with budgeting or refining your expertise, this episode will provide valuable insights to boost your confidence!

ResEdChat Ep 111: Examining the Ongoing Importance of Professional Organizations with Brian Hopkins

We're pleased to welcome Brian to the show this week to talk about his journey that led him to joining ACPA in a professional capacity as well as what he sees as the ways professional organizations are creating relevant opportunities for learning, camaraderie, and authentic connections for higher education staff members all over the world. *You may notice that there was a minor audio issue in the middle of this episode, which required us to swap mics. We appreciate your patience and understanding!

RA*Chat Ep 109: Through the Lens: Reflecting on College and the Power of Community

In this episode, host Crystal sits down with Director of Photography Justin Kosman, whose career has taken him worldwide, working with brands like Red Bull, Vans, and ESPN. Reflecting on his time as a resident, student-athlete, and English Literature major, Justin shares the lessons and regrets that shaped his path to success. Tune in for powerful insights on embracing challenges, fostering belonging, and how RAs can play a pivotal role in building community and connection.

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