Z-Rated Success: The Decision Lab for Education Leaders

NICK ZIZI

Z-Rated Success: The Decision Lab for Educational Leaders is where educators, leaders, and student success professionals unpack the decisions that shape students, teams, campuses, and communities. Hosted by Nick “The Zebra” Zizi, this podcast goes beyond surface-level success stories to explore the real choices, turning points, leadership lessons, and even the “knuckleheaded decisions” that help us grow. Each conversation is designed to be insightful, practical, and engaging—giving educational leaders fresh perspective, useful takeaways, and better questions to bring back to their work. Because in education, every decision is a direction. Better decisions. Better outcomes.

  1. Jul 16

    You Belong in the Room: Access, Advocacy, and Student Success with Dr. Alana Simmons

    Many students do not lack ability. They need access, exposure, support, and someone who reminds them that they belong. In this episode of Z-Rated Success: The Decision Lab for Education Leaders, Nick “The Zebra” Zizi sits down with Dr. Alana Simmons, an education leader with more than 20 years of experience across workforce development, correctional education, GEAR UP, and higher education. Drawing from her leadership with GEAR UP Dougherty and her transition into a new chapter in higher education, Dr. Simmons shares how educators can help students see beyond their ZIP codes, advocate for themselves, ask better questions, and make informed decisions about college, careers, and life. She also shares the powerful story of a student whose interest in cosmetic science began with one honest conversation. Because an educator listened, that student gained access to college visits, hands-on learning, industry exposure, in-state tuition, and a clear pathway toward her future. In this conversation, Nick and Dr. Simmons discuss: Why access and exposure can change what students believe is possibleHow educators can help students overcome imposter syndromeWhat students may be carrying behind their behaviorWhy leaders should listen before assuming they have the answerWhat real college and career readiness looks like beyond applications and test scoresWhy students must learn to ask questions and advocate for themselvesHow adults can guide students through decisions without making every decision for themWhy asking, “How do you want to serve your community?” may be more powerful than asking, “What do you want to be?”Dr. Simmons leaves students with a message every young person needs to hear: “You are here because you’ve been handpicked to be here.” This episode is especially relevant for GEAR UP, TRIO, college-access, higher-education, student-affairs, advising, and education leaders committed to helping students see what is possible, prepare for what is next, and succeed once they enter the room.  Connect Connect with Dr. Alana Simmons on Facebook and Instagram. Learn more about Z-Rated Success: Visit zratedsuccess.com Bring Nick Zizi’s Decision Lab keynote or training to your campus, district, or conference: Visit nickzizi.com

  2. Jul 7

    AI Literacy, Equity, and Human-Centered Teaching with Kimberly A. Freeman

    AI is changing education, but many educators are still trying to figure out where to begin. In this episode, Kimberly A. Freeman joins Z-Rated Success to discuss how educators can leverage AI without fear, reclaim time, and use technology in ways that support teaching and learning. Kimberly shares why AI literacy matters, especially for ESL and multilingual students, and why educators need clear systems instead of more overwhelm. The conversation explores how AI can help with lesson planning, administrative tasks, multilingual learning, data privacy concerns, inclusive prompting, and teacher support. Kimberly also reminds education leaders that AI should not replace educators. It should help educators get time back to do the work only humans can do. This episode is for educators, school leaders, instructional coaches, PD leaders, TESOL professionals, and anyone thinking about how AI can support teaching, equity, and student success. In This Episode, We Discuss Why AI literacy matters for students and educatorsHow AI can support ESL and multilingual learnersWhy many teachers feel overwhelmed by AIHow educators can start with one AI skill instead of trying to learn everythingThe importance of clear AI policies and schoolwide systemsHow AI can help teachers reclaim time from administrative tasksWhy human-centered prompting mattersHow bias can show up in AI-generated contentWhy education leaders need to address teacher fears around AIHow support from leadership affects AI implementationWhy AI should not replace educatorsKey Takeaways 1. AI literacy is an equity issue. Students should not be left behind because they do not have access to AI literacy or adults who can help them navigate it. 2. Educators need systems, not overload. Kimberly reminds educators to start with one skill and build from there instead of trying to learn everything at once. 3. AI can help teachers reclaim time. Lesson planning, documentation, reports, and administrative tasks can consume hours. AI can help reduce that workload when used wisely. 4. The human touch still matters. AI can support teaching, but educators must remain the navigators. 5. Leadership support matters. If teachers feel safe, supported, and heard, they are more likely to use AI with confidence and purpose. Memorable Lines “AI is very scary to teachers.” “Let me focus on one skill, not 20 million skills.” “You are the navigator of AI.” “AI is not going to replace educators who are prepared and have a system in place.” “Support means the whole world.” Guest Contact Kimberly A. Freeman LinkedIn: Kimberly A. Freeman Website: kimaiinstructionaleducation-educationalconsultant.com Learn more about Z-Rated Success: Visit zratedsuccess.com Bring Nick Zizi’s Decision Lab keynote or training to your campus, district, or conference: Visit nickzizi.com

  3. Jun 30

    Even Resilient Students Get Tired with Hanan Allen

    Student leadership is more than a title. It is how students communicate, make decisions, handle conflict, build community, and grow under pressure. In this conversation, Hanan Allen, MPA, Assistant Director of Student Activities at the University of Rochester, shares what she has learned from advising student organizations and supporting student leaders. She discusses the behind-the-scenes work of student activities, the importance of cultural competence, how student organizations build belonging, and why educators must listen first before trying to fix everything. Hanan also gives a powerful reminder for education leaders: first-generation students may be resilient, but even resilient students get tired. This episode is a valuable conversation for educators, student affairs professionals, TRIO/GEAR UP leaders, advisors, and anyone who wants to better support students as humans first. In This Episode, We Discuss Hanan’s journey into student activities and higher educationThe behind-the-scenes work of advising student organizationsWhy student organizations teach leadership skills students may not learn in the classroomHow cultural organizations help students find belongingWhat students are carrying that education leaders may not always seeWhy first-generation students need support beyond the “resilience” labelCommunication and conflict resolution among student leadersWhy students need advisors who listen, care, and ask better questionsThe balance between compassion and accountabilityHow leaders who develop leaders can change the worldKey Takeaways 1. Student activities are leadership labs. Students learn budgeting, event planning, teamwork, communication, delegation, and conflict resolution through student organizations. 2. Belonging requires more than words. Students feel belonging when they have spaces where their culture, voice, leadership, and lived experience are valued. 3. Educators must see the person behind the behavior. Sometimes leaders see the behavior, but they miss the burden behind the behavior. 4. First-generation students are carrying more than academics. They may be navigating family expectations, financial pressure, trauma, lack of support, and the responsibility of breaking generational cycles. 5. Compassion needs structure. Hanan shares that compassion is important, but advisors also need boundaries, deadlines, and accountability. Memorable Quotes “Sometimes leaders see the behavior, but they may not always see the burden behind the behavior.” “Even resilient people get tired.” “Students are human too.” “Leaders who develop leaders will ultimately change the world for the better.” “Listen first and ask questions later.” Guest Contact Hanan Allen Website: hanangosglobal.com Learn more about Z-Rated Success: Visit zratedsuccess.com Bring Nick Zizi’s Decision Lab keynote or training to your campus, district, or conference: Visit nickzizi.com

  4. Jun 23

    What Students Are Carrying with Brittany Blackwell Broussard

    Today’s college students are carrying more than many education leaders realize. In this episode of Z-Rated Success, Nick “The Zebra” Zizi sits down with Brittany Blackwell Broussard, Director of Culture and Climate and Psychology Instructor at Northwestern State University, to talk about culture, climate, belonging, empathy, and what it really means to help students feel safe, seen, supported, and valued. Brittany shares how campus culture shows up in everyday student life, why empathy empowers students, and why education leaders must pay attention to what students are carrying before they assume laziness, attitude, or disinterest. This conversation is for education leaders, student affairs professionals, faculty, advisors, and anyone committed to building campus environments where students can thrive. In This Episode: What culture and climate mean in real lifeHow empathy empowers studentsWhy today’s college students are carrying more than many leaders realizeHow work, family responsibility, commuting, finances, and first-generation expectations affect studentsWhy leaders should be careful not to misread overwhelm as laziness or disinterestHow small moments help students feel seen and supportedWhy belonging must move beyond performative statementsHow educators can build trust through authenticity, personal outreach, and practical supportWhy students need to hear, “You belong here”Key Takeaway: Empathy empowers. When education leaders take time to understand what students are carrying, they are better equipped to build trust, create belonging, and support students before small challenges become bigger decisions. Memorable Quote: “Students want to be seen. They want to feel heard and actually feel valued.” Knucklehead Decision Segment: Brittany shares why a lack of communication and transparency can become a major leadership mistake. When something happens and leaders do not communicate clearly, students fill in the blanks, rumors grow, and trust can be damaged. Best For: Education leaders, student affairs professionals, faculty, academic advisors, culture and climate leaders, student support professionals, and anyone who wants to create stronger campus belonging. Connect With Brittany Blackwell Broussard: LinkedIn: Brittany Blackwell Broussard Listen to more episodes: zratedsuccess.com Learn more about Z-Rated Success: Visit zratedsuccess.com Bring Nick Zizi’s Decision Lab keynote or training to your campus, district, or conference: Visit nickzizi.com

  5. Jun 16

    The Scholar Glow-Up: From Community College to Graduate School

    Community college is not the end of the road. For many students, it can be the beginning of a bigger academic journey. In this episode of Z-Rated Success, Nick “The Zebra” Zizi sits down with Dr. Tiffany Paige, Director of the McNair Scholars Community College Program at Jackson State University, to talk about helping students move from simply trying to finish a semester to seeing themselves as scholars, researchers, and future graduate students. Dr. Paige shares her own educational journey as a first-generation college student, the importance of exposure and early intervention, and how education leaders can help students connect today’s decisions to tomorrow’s opportunities. This conversation is especially valuable for TRIO professionals, GEAR UP leaders, advisors, faculty, student support professionals, and anyone committed to helping students see and pursue bigger possibilities. In This Episode Why community college can be a powerful stepping stoneHow leaders can help students build scholar identity earlierWhy exposure matters for first-generation and transfer studentsThe role of McNair Scholars programs in preparing students for research and graduate schoolHow advisors and program leaders can help students prepare for bigger academic opportunitiesThe myth that research is only for science studentsWhy students must communicate early and stop waiting until the last minuteHow listening helps leaders guide students without forcing their own lived experience onto themKey Quote “Community college is not the end of the road. For many students, it can be the beginning of a bigger academic journey.” Knucklehead Decision Segment Dr. Paige shares why lack of communication is one of the biggest decisions that can cost students opportunities. Waiting until the last minute for recommendations, applications, funding, or graduate school preparation can make it harder for advisors and mentors to help. Best Takeaway Students are capable, but they need exposure, preparation, support, and leaders who will listen closely enough to connect them with the right opportunities. Call to Action If this episode encouraged you, share it with an educator, advisor, TRIO professional, community college student, or future graduate student who needs to hear that bigger academic opportunities are possible. Connect With Dr. Tiffany Paige LinkedIn: Tiffany R. Paige Learn more about Z-Rated Success: Visit zratedsuccess.com Bring Nick Zizi’s Decision Lab keynote or training to your campus, district, or conference: Visit nickzizi.com

  6. Jun 9

    Orientation Is Not a Checkbox with Brittany Jackson

    In this episode of Z-Rated Success: The Decision Lab for Education Leaders, Nick Zizi sits down with Brittany Jackson, Director of Orientation and New Student Programs at North Carolina A&T State University. Brittany shares why orientation is not just a checklist or a schedule of events. It is often the first real experience students and families have with a campus community, and it can shape how they feel about belonging, safety, support, and student success. This conversation explores orientation, student transition, first-year experience, family engagement, belonging, leadership, and the early decisions that can shape a student’s semester. In this episode, we discuss: • Why orientation is more than logistics • How orientation sets the tone for student success • Why parents and families are part of the transition process • What students are often unprepared for when they arrive • Why students need to decide who they want to be • How leaders can help students learn to pivot • Why belonging matters from day one • How authenticity creates connection with students • What leaders should pay attention to during orientation • Practical advice for students before and during orientation Connect with Brittany Jackson: LinkedIn: Brittany Jackson Remember: Better decisions lead to better outcomes. Learn more about Z-Rated Success: Visit zratedsuccess.com Bring Nick Zizi’s Decision Lab keynote or training to your campus, district, or conference: Visit nickzizi.com

  7. Jun 3

    Don’t Let Fear Make the Decision: Helping Students Take Action with Bennie Williams

    In this episode of Z Rated Success, Nick “The Zebra” Zizi sits down with Bennie Williams for a powerful conversation about fear, opportunity, student success, and what it means to help students become comfortable being uncomfortable. Bennie brings over 12 years of experience in higher education, student affairs, multicultural education, diversity, equity, and inclusion work, and now K–8 education as a third-grade ELA teacher. In this conversation, he shares lessons from his own journey, including the opportunities he missed because of fear and how that experience now shapes the way he encourages students to try, take risks, and keep going. This episode is especially valuable for educators, school leaders, student affairs professionals, TRIO and GEAR UP teams, and anyone committed to helping students make better decisions and develop the confidence to grow. In this episode, we discuss: Why fear causes students and educators to miss opportunitiesHow to help students become comfortable being uncomfortableWhy trying matters, even when students do not know the answerHow educators can use accountability language without discouraging studentsWhy emotional regulation is critical before students get to collegeWhat actually sticks with students after a program, lesson, or experienceHow representation and real examples help students build identityWhy educators also need to reignite their passion and take care of themselvesMemorable takeaway: Fear should not be the thing that makes the decision. Students need educators who help them take risks, try, fail, learn, and keep moving forward. About the Guest: Bennie Williams has over 12 years of experience in higher education, particularly in student affairs, multicultural education, student leadership, and DEI work. He recently transitioned into K–8 education as a third-grade ELA teacher, where he continues helping students learn, grow, develop confidence, and prepare for real-life situations. Connect with Bennie: LinkedIn: Bennie Darnell Williams Instagram: @theofficialmrcanisius Learn more about Z-Rated Success: Visit zratedsuccess.com Bring Nick Zizi’s Decision Lab keynote or training to your campus, district, or conference: Visit nickzizi.com

  8. May 27

    Students Need Advocates and Translators with Robert Johnson

    Students are carrying more than many people realize, and education leaders have an opportunity to help them feel seen, supported, and challenged to grow. In this episode of Z-Rated Success, Nick Zizi sits down with Robert Johnson, Executive Director of the Agape Center for Human Dignity at Sacred Heart University, for a powerful conversation on student belonging, leadership, campus culture, and what students need right now. Robert shares why students need advocates and translators, how leaders can help students find their voice, and why small decisions like showing up, asking for help, and going to the source can shape a student’s future. This episode is for educators, advisors, student affairs professionals, TRIO professionals, campus leaders, and anyone committed to helping students make better decisions and experience better outcomes. Connect with Robert Johnson: LinkedIn: Robert Johnson Website: RSJ Inclusion Consulting Remember: Better decisions lead to better outcomes. Learn more about Z-Rated Success: Visit zratedsuccess.com Bring Nick Zizi’s Decision Lab keynote or training to your campus, district, or conference: Visit nickzizi.com

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About

Z-Rated Success: The Decision Lab for Educational Leaders is where educators, leaders, and student success professionals unpack the decisions that shape students, teams, campuses, and communities. Hosted by Nick “The Zebra” Zizi, this podcast goes beyond surface-level success stories to explore the real choices, turning points, leadership lessons, and even the “knuckleheaded decisions” that help us grow. Each conversation is designed to be insightful, practical, and engaging—giving educational leaders fresh perspective, useful takeaways, and better questions to bring back to their work. Because in education, every decision is a direction. Better decisions. Better outcomes.

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