In the debut episode of "The Lift," Kelvin Thompson shares reflections on the power of small lifts, from trusted colleagues to wise words to encouraging anecdotes. Discover insights on academic innovation, digital learning, and leadership — plus a little coffee wisdom for good measure!

01 Why We Need A Lift

Discover how grounding in timeless wisdom and embracing serendipity can help higher ed leaders navigate change with clarity and resilience.

02 The Value of Finding a "Stable Center"

Cynicism is easy. But hope isn’t stupid—it’s strategic.
In this episode of "The Lift," Kelvin explores how hopeful skepticism, grounded action, and quiet kindness push back against despair, so important in the work of higher education.

03  Why Hope Is Not Stupid

We're all human. But not all experiences are equal. In higher ed, what if empathy begins with truly seeing our students—body, story, soul?

04 We're All Humans Here. Aren't We?

Wanting to make a difference isn’t enough. The stories we tell ourselves about what “impact” looks like can either isolate or empower us. In this episode, what true difference-making requires—both individually and collectively.

05 What Does It Take To Make A Difference?

This month’s issue of "The Lift" [Audio Edition] explores 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘩𝘰𝘸 of finding common ground through human connection toward collective impact of academic innovation.

The Lift [Audio Edition]

06 Can We Ride Together?

Explore the role of empathy, emotion, and authentic connection in academic innovation —and how appropriate vulnerability builds stronger connections.

07 Human Connection in Academic Innovation?

"The Lift [Audio Edition]" - insights and inspiration for the work of academic innovation, digital learning, and leading in higher ed - hosted by Kelvin Thompson. The text newsletter version with community interactions is at: https://dub.sh/thelift