Adjunct Nation
Adjunct Nation
Podcast Description
Adjunct faculty are a growing majority in higher education, shaping student experiences while navigating the challenges of contingent employment. As adjuncts at a regional public university, we know firsthand the realities, rewards, and roadblocks that come with the role. That’s why we’re here—to boost your mood and pedagogy with insightful dialogues on current challenges, practical strategies, and pathways forward for you and your students.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast centers on the challenges and rewards of being an adjunct faculty member, addressing specific topics like the integration of AI in education with episodes such as 'AI for All' which explores benefits and drawbacks of AI tools in classrooms, along with practical strategies for enhancing student learning.
Adjunct faculty are a growing majority in higher education, shaping student experiences while navigating the challenges of contingent employment. As adjuncts at a regional public university, we know firsthand the realities, rewards, and roadblocks that come with the role. That’s why we’re here—to boost your mood and pedagogy with insightful dialogues on current challenges, practical strategies, and pathways forward for you and your students.
In this episode of The Adjunct Files, John and Maggie sit down with Brian Rist—founder of Storm Smart, longtime entrepreneur, philanthropist, and adjunct faculty member at FGCU—fresh off receiving an honorary Doctor of Laws at commencement. What unfolds is far more than a business success story; it’s a reflection on purpose, resilience, and the transformative power of education.
Brian shares how Hurricane Andrew sparked the idea that would eventually become Storm Smart, a company that revolutionized hurricane protection and helped safeguard hundreds of thousands of homes. But the heart of this conversation lies in what came next: his decision to step into the classroom, mentor first-generation and regional students, and invest his time, talent, and resources in helping others break cycles and build better futures.
From ethical leadership and lifelong learning to generosity as a way of life, Brian reflects on why teaching as an adjunct is one of the most meaningful things he does—and why he gladly flies back and forth to stay connected to students. Whether you’re an adjunct, an entrepreneur, or someone searching for deeper meaning in your work, this episode is a powerful reminder that success isn’t just about what you build—but who you help along the way.
Theme music composed, performed and produced by James Husni.
Adjunct Nation is a collaborative podcast under the auspices of The Lucas Center for Faculty Development at FGCU. You can learn more by clicking on this link:
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