E240: Tom McGovern (with special guest host Jane Halonen): A lifetime of learning, a builder of bridges

In this episode Eric and special guest host Jane Halonen (University of West Florida) interview Tom McGovern, emeritus faculty from Arizona State University. Tom shares his rich and varied experiences, from teaching at the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute and leading the Geezers Salon to founding a new campus at Arizona State University. He recounts his challenging health journey with Guillain-Barré Syndrome and his relentless dedication to teaching, even while hospitalized. Tom also discusses his involvement in landmark educational conferences, his pedagogical philosophy, and his long-standing contributions to psychology. Jane and Eric highlight Tom's resilience, ethical leadership, and lasting impact on the academic community. [Note. Portions of the show notes were generated by Descript AI.]

In this Part 2 episode Eric interviews Ho Huynn from Australian National University in Canberra, Australia. Ho shares his experiences of moving from Texas to Australia, including the personal and professional motivations behind the move. He discusses the cultural nuances of living in Australia and provides insights into the Australian higher education system compared to the US system. Ho also dives into his teaching and research activities, including a special program for undergraduates and his ongoing work in humility research. Additionally, Ho offers advice for faculty members considering pursuing academic opportunities abroad. [Note: Portions of the show notes were generated by Descript AI.]

In this episode Garth interviews Ebony Glover from Kennesaw State University in Kennesaw, GA. Ebony shares her journey in academia, including postdoctoral work and her love for teaching. They discuss the importance of research in neuroscience, especially concerning sex differences, and how those differences influence both her research and teaching. Ebony emphasizes the significance of active learning in engaging students and describes various classroom strategies she employs. Additionally, she discusses her contributions to the upcoming fifth edition of the textbook 'Psychology in Your Life' and her excitement about balancing teaching with scholarship in her mid-career. [Note. Portions of the show notes were generated by Descript AI.]

In this episode Eric interviews Efren Velazquez from the University of North Georgia in Gainsville, GA. Efren reflects on his 13-year journey since graduating from Boise State University. They discuss his career progression, including his promotion to associate professor and imminent consideration for full professorship. The conversation delves into the challenges and self-doubt faced during the tenure process, often referred to as imposter syndrome. He shares his experience launching a community-focused family literacy program with his department chair and the importance of involving students in community engagement. They also reminisce about their mentor-mentee relationship at Boise State and the significant role mentorship plays in academic and professional development. Future aspirations, including potential administrative roles and other key anecdotes, round out this insightful episode. [Note: Portions of the show notes were generated using Descript AI.]

In this episode Eric interviews Mitch Handelsman from the University of Colorado Denver, in Denver, CO. They engage in a spirited conversation about various topics, including university mottos and logos, the history of their academic careers, and the impact of AI on teaching and learning. Mitch elaborates on his background, the influence of his family, and his journey through academia. The conversation also touches upon the challenges of retirement, the role of luck and effort in career success, and how AI is reshaping educational practices. Mitch emphasizes the importance of adapting teaching methods to meet the needs of an ever-changing student demographic and the significance of ethical considerations in the age of AI. [Note. Portions of the show notes were generated by Descript AI.]

In this sidebar episode Eric interviews Malin Lilley (Texas A&M University-Central Texas), Dawn Weatherford (Texas A&M University-San Antonio), and Ho Huynh (Australian National University). They discuss the development and impact of the Psychology Research Experience Preparedness (PREP) program. Designed by three psychology colleagues, PREP aims to equip undergraduates with the knowledge and confidence needed to participate in research experiences early in their academic careers. The program includes various modules covering essential topics like the research process, ethics, professionalism, and more. The creators emphasize its potential as an equalizer for students at different preparedness levels and highlight its utility for instructors by integrating it into their courses. Funded by NSF, PREP is free, openly accessible, and tailored not just for top-tier students but for all who might benefit from early exposure to research. For more on PREP: https://tinyurl.com/PREPPSYC [Note. Portions of the show notes were generated by Descript AI.]  

In this episode Eric interviews Jon Grahe from the Gaffney Group and Illumin Analytics in a Part 2 interview. They discuss his journey from being a psychology professor to working in sales, particularly in the solar and roofing industries, and now as an advanced funeral planner. Jon shares his experiences of door-to-door sales, the challenges and insights gained, and how his background in psychology has been instrumental in his new roles. He emphasizes the importance of pre-planning funeral arrangements and the emotional aspects of his current role. The conversation also touches on Jon's passion for environmental conservation, particularly his interest in beavers and their role in wetlands. Despite the career shift, Jon remains actively engaged in academic projects and continues to contribute to scholarly work, highlighting the flexibility and opportunities that his new career path provides. [Note. Portions of the show notes were generated by Descript AI.]

In this episode Eric interviews Mary Kite from Ball State University in Muncie, IN. Mary shares her recent retirement journey and the factors influencing her decision, including personal loss and the changing landscape of higher education. The discussion delves into the impact of legislative changes on academic freedom and the introduction of AI in education. She reflects on her extensive career, the evolution of teaching psychology, and the importance of following one's passion. Offering advice to new educators, she emphasizes maintaining a work-life balance and avoiding the pitfalls of comparison. The episode concludes with an optimistic outlook on academic life and the lasting impact educators have on their students. [Note. Portions of the show notes were generated by Descript AI.]

In this episode Eric interviews Eric Amsel from Weber State University in Odgen, UT. They discuss the challenges and responsibilities of supporting underprepared students in higher education. Highlighting a case where developmental math and English retention rates were brought from 40% to approximately 60-65%, they emphasize the need for better support systems for students with big dreams who begin their college journey underprepared. Eric A. reflects on his own experiences and the mission of an open enrollment regional comprehensive institution to enhance student success. [Note. Portions of the show notes were generated by Descript AI.]

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