A collaborative project between IDEA START and The Centre for the Advancement of Teaching and Learning, the IDEA START Podcast amplifies voices from across disciplines and corners of campus.

Hosted by Rajeev Koyal of IDEA START and Janine Carmichael of The Centre for the Advancement of Teaching and Learning, each episode dives deep into the stories and ideas that demonstrate UM’s innovative spirit and meaningful support.

“We created this podcast to celebrate and connect with the many people across campus who are reimagining what is possible,” says Koyal. “It’s also a space to learn from each other and to make the work of innovation more visible.”

Highlights from Season One:

• UM President Dr. Michael Benarroch shares his vision for entrepreneurship and entrepreneurial learning at UM.
• The 100^Th UMSU President Divya Sharma and UMSU General Manager Thomas Blumer introduce UMSU Ventures – a new space to help student entrepreneurs bring their venture to life on campus.
• Debra Jonasson-Young, Director of the Stu Clark Centre for Entrepreneurship, outlines key supports for students of all disciplines.
• Dr. Brenda Stoesz, who leads the Science of Teaching and Learning Team shares how Virtual Reality is being used to reimagine faculty development.
• Dr. Loren Oschipok, Partnerships, Knowledge Mobilization and Innovation Office Director dives into strategies for protecting and advancing intellectual property.

With episodes running approximately 30 minutes, the podcast is designed for busy students, faculty, staff, and alumni who want to stay inspired and connected.

Where to Listen

The IDEA START Podcast is available on all major platforms: Listen or watch on YouTube, Yuja, or listen on Spotify. New episodes drop monthly during the academic year.

“Whether you’re launching a venture, integrating creativity into your teaching, or just curious about how innovation shows up and is supported at UM, there’s something in these stories for you,” says Carmichael.

To listen or learn more, visit IDEA START Podcast.

Do you have guest suggestions for Season 2? Reach out to Rajeev Koyal or Janine Carmichael.

Construction robots are set to help with tasks on the job site as the industry is in a major flux and the engineering students are preparing for the industry’s technological shift.

Assistant Professor in Civil Engineering, Gursans Guven Isin, showcased how our engineering students are using VR to gain hands-on experience with construction processes and project management in a simulated environment.

To view this story on CTV National News, please follow the link here.

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