#126 From Rivals to Allies: Dr. Bridget Burns’ Mission to Transform Higher Ed — Part One

What if universities worked together instead of competing like contestants on a reality TV show? In this episode, we explore the “Higher Ed Hunger Games,” where rivalry rules the day. Dr. Bridget Burns, CEO of the University Innovation Alliance (UIA) and host of The Innovating Together Podcast , shares her journey from a small-town upbringing in rural America to becoming a trailblazer in educational reform. Her mission? To unite academic institutions, boost graduation rates, and create better employment opportunities for low-income students—all through collaboration and innovation. No drama, just teamwork. Key Highlights of Our Interview: Overcoming Adversity: Bridget's Journey from Isolation to Empowerment “I grew up in a cul de sac of racism, homophobia, misogyny—very rural America—and getting out was super important.” Problem in Universities: Unveiling the Diffusion of Innovation Problem “We don’t know if what we’re doing is any good, or how to scale it.” Higher Ed Hunger Games: Tackling the Cutthroat Competition "Higher education is highly competitive, hierarchical, set up to pit you against others, which leaves very little space to share about shared problems." Real Change or Just for Show? Scouting for True Innovators in Academia "We need to figure out who else is a worker bee, who's interested in doing the really hard stuff and not just drawn to the image." Who Actually Likes Change? Spoiler: No One “Everyone who says they like change is a liar. You only like change that is your idea and that you actively participate in creating.” Connect with Us: Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Bridget Burns ______________________ -- Chief Change Officer -- Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself. Open a World of Deep Human Intelligence for Growth Progressives, Visionary Underdogs, Transformation Gurus & Bold Hearts. 6 Million+ All-Time Downloads. Reaching 80+ Countries Daily. Global Top 3% Podcast. Top 10 US Business. Top 1 US Careers. >>> 100,000+ subscribers are outgrowing. Act Today.<<< --Chief Change Officer-- Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself. Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligence for Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep, Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts. EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist. 20 Million+ All-Time Downloads. 80+ Countries Reached Daily. Global Top 1% Podcast. Top 5 US Business. Top 1 US Careers. >>>180,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.<<<