Advertise on podcast: Cooperatively Speaking

Traveling or studying abroad can be an unforgettable part of a student’s education, but adjusting to a new culture and support system can also create unexpected emotional challenges. In this episode of Cooperatively Speaking, Allison Lambert of E&I Cooperative Services speaks with Makaela Wood of Workplace Options about helping students protect their mental well-being before and during international travel. The conversation covers preparing for culture shock and homesickness, maintaining continuity of care, recognizing when students may need support, and helping faculty and trip leaders respond to serious situations abroad. Cooperatively Speaking is hosted by E&I Cooperative Services, the only member-owned, non-profit procurement cooperative exclusively focused on serving the needs of education. Visit our website at www.eandi.org/podcast. Contact Us Have questions, comments, or ideas for a future episode? We'd love to hear from you! Contact Cooperatively Speaking at [email protected]. This podcast is for informational purposes only. The views expressed in this podcast may not be those of the host(s) or E&I Cooperative Services.

Employment fraud is becoming more sophisticated and more difficult to detect. In this episode of Cooperatively Speaking, Allison Lambert from E&I sits down with Jim Desmond, Chief Information Security Officer at HireRight, to discuss how workforce risk is evolving and why educational institutions can no longer afford to take candidates at face value. From identity and credential fraud to emerging workforce threats, Jim shares practical insights on what institutions need to know, how the risks are changing, and why "Verify Before Trust" is becoming a critical part of modern hiring strategies. Whether you're involved in HR, procurement, finance, IT, compliance, or institutional leadership, this conversation will help you better understand the risks associated with fraudulent hires and how to build a stronger, more secure workforce. Listen now to learn how your institution can protect its people, reputation, and mission from today's evolving workforce risks. Cooperatively Speaking is hosted by E&I Cooperative Services, the only member-owned, non-profit procurement cooperative exclusively focused on serving the needs of education. Visit our website at www.eandi.org/podcast. Contact Us Have questions, comments, or ideas for a future episode? We'd love to hear from you! Contact Cooperatively Speaking at [email protected]. This podcast is for informational purposes only. The views expressed in this podcast may not be those of the host(s) or E&I Cooperative Services.

Colleges and universities face unique relocation challenges when moving faculty, staff, and coaches to campus. Budget constraints are an obvious challenge, but unlike businesses relocating employees, school relocation packages are usually managed at the department level, leaving employees unaware of the resources that are available. In this podcast, industry leader Sirva shares best practices and real-world insights to help institutions maximize the relocation experience, improve employee satisfaction, and make the process as seamless as possible.  Guest: Lindsay Silverstein, VP of Sales, Sirva E&I Host: Dennis Hyde, E&I Category Marketing Manager Cooperatively Speaking is hosted by E&I Cooperative Services, the only member-owned, non-profit procurement cooperative exclusively focused on serving the needs of education. Visit our website at www.eandi.org/podcast. Contact Us Have questions, comments, or ideas for a future episode? We'd love to hear from you! Contact Cooperatively Speaking at [email protected]. This podcast is for informational purposes only. The views expressed in this podcast may not be those of the host(s) or E&I Cooperative Services.

Interested in exploring smarter, cleaner, and more strategic air filtration for the places that keep our campuses running? In this episode of Cooperatively Speaking, Starla Ford from E&I speaks with Tim Deleon from Filtration Concepts regarding one of the most referenced but least understood standards in our world, ASHRAE 52.2, and what it really means for campus facilities. Tune in for an inciteful discussion about what ASHRAE and MERV standards are and why they were instituted, filters in general, air filtration challenges, filter inventory challenges institutions face, how to select the right filters for your campus environment, indoor air quality and air quality ratings—and what this all means for colleges, universities, and K-12 schools nationwide. E&I Host: Starla Ford, Sales Enablement Manager, E&I Cooperative Services Guests: Tim Deleon, Director of Marketing & Sales, Filtration Concepts  Cooperatively Speaking is hosted by E&I Cooperative Services, the only member-owned, non-profit procurement cooperative exclusively focused on serving the needs of education. Visit our website at www.eandi.org/podcast. Contact Us Have questions, comments, or ideas for a future episode? We'd love to hear from you! Contact Cooperatively Speaking at [email protected]. This podcast is for informational purposes only. The views expressed in this podcast may not be those of the host(s) or E&I Cooperative Services.

Listen as Allison Lambert is joined by Sarah Wood from Workplace Options to discuss why child and family wellbeing has become a critical priority for K–12 schools and higher education institutions. Tackling this growing challenge, Sarah shares insights on rising mental health needs, caregiver burnout, and the increasing complexity of support systems, while highlighting how integrated wellbeing services can better support students, families, and school communities. This conversation offers practical strategies for decision makers looking to strengthen student success, staff resilience, and family engagement in an evolving educational landscape.  Cooperatively Speaking is hosted by E&I Cooperative Services, the only member-owned, non-profit procurement cooperative exclusively focused on serving the needs of education. Visit our website at www.eandi.org/podcast. Contact Us Have questions, comments, or ideas for a future episode? We'd love to hear from you! Contact Cooperatively Speaking at [email protected]. This podcast is for informational purposes only. The views expressed in this podcast may not be those of the host(s) or E&I Cooperative Services.

In higher ed, international travel safety is crucial. With studies abroad, research collaborations, global partnerships, and athletics, managing risk and protecting people is crucial. But many travel programs have not kept up with need, and schools are left with more exposure to risk than they may know. 280,000 students study abroad each year, and many institutions don’t know where all their travelers are. In this podcast, E&I and CTP discuss how institutions can help keep their college president from taking a dreaded midnight phone call to learn that traveling students are in harm's way.  E&I Host: Dennis Hyde, Category Marketing Manager, E&I Cooperative Services Guests: Morgan Hoyt, VP of Business Development & Account Management, CTP; Ben Rader, Director of Business Development, CTP            Cooperatively Speaking is hosted by E&I Cooperative Services, the only member-owned, non-profit procurement cooperative exclusively focused on serving the needs of education. Visit our website at www.eandi.org/podcast. Contact Us Have questions, comments, or ideas for a future episode? We'd love to hear from you! Contact Cooperatively Speaking at [email protected]. This podcast is for informational purposes only. The views expressed in this podcast may not be those of the host(s) or E&I Cooperative Services.

Transforming Labs Through Ergonomics: Healthier Spaces for Better Science Join Allison Lambert, Category Marketing Manager at E&I Cooperative Services, as she hosts Mark Scelfo, U.S. Managing Director at Bimos—an E&I business partner through LabRepCo—for an insightful discussion on how ergonomics is transforming laboratory environments. From preventing injuries to enhancing researcher well-being and overall lab performance, discover how smarter design and better seating choices can create healthier spaces that drive better science. Hear from Mark as he and Allison explore what it truly means to reimagine labs that put people first—and innovation forward. E&I Host: Allison Lambert, Category Marketing Manager, E&I Cooperative Services Guest: Mark Scelfo, U.S. Managing Director, Bimos Cooperatively Speaking is hosted by E&I Cooperative Services, the only member-owned, non-profit procurement cooperative exclusively focused on serving the needs of education. Visit our website at www.eandi.org/podcast. Contact Us Have questions, comments, or ideas for a future episode? We'd love to hear from you! Contact Cooperatively Speaking at [email protected]. This podcast is for informational purposes only. The views expressed in this podcast may not be those of the host(s) or E&I Cooperative Services.

NOTE: This episode of Cooperatively Speaking features David Wheeler, of Orange County Public Schools, whose recent passing has deeply saddened all who knew him. We share this recording in honor of his legacy, leadership, and the insights he generously offered. With the support of his colleagues and community, E&I Cooperative remembers David with utmost respect and gratitude. E&I Host:  Sue Peters, E&I Vice President, K-12 Engagement  Guest:  David Wheeler, Senior Director of Procurement, Orange County Public Schools In this episode of Cooperatively Speaking, David Wheeler, Senior Director of Procurement at Orange County Public Schools, joins E&I host Sue Peters to share strategies on maximizing the power of cooperative contracts. From fleet maintenance to cutting-edge IT solutions, David reveals how his team has streamlined processes, controlled costs, and tackled challenges using cooperative purchasing. He offers a forward-looking take on trends like AI in procurement, the evolution of eProcurement platforms and the critical role of continuous professional development, inspiring procurement professionals to innovate and grow with this dynamic field. Tune in to hear how today’s top procurement leaders are driving efficiency and future-proofing their organizations! Relevant Links: Orange County Public Schools Website E&I's K-12 Commitment E&I Website Cooperatively Speaking is hosted by E&I Cooperative Services, the only member-owned, non-profit procurement cooperative exclusively focused on serving the needs of education. Visit our website at www.eandi.org/podcast. Contact Us Have questions, comments, or ideas for a future episode? We'd love to hear from you! Contact Cooperatively Speaking at [email protected]. This podcast is for informational purposes only. The views expressed in this podcast may not be those of the host(s) or E&I Cooperative Services.

Join Matt Levine, Category Marketing Manager from E&I, as he hosts Sheila Lehker, President of Cizek Associates to talk about the true costs associated with filling roles with interim hires. As retirements mount and people begin leaving the workforce, higher education has turned to interim staff members to help fill vacancies. Whether this is a strategic move to intentionally fill the role or a financial move to attempt to save dollars, the impact can be felt across a campus. Hear from Sheila as she and Matt dive deep into the true impact of interim fixes.   E&I Host: Matt Levine, Category Marketing Manager, E&I Cooperative Services   Guest: Sheila Lehker, President, Cizek Associates Cooperatively Speaking is hosted by E&I Cooperative Services, the only member-owned, non-profit procurement cooperative exclusively focused on serving the needs of education. Visit our website at www.eandi.org/podcast. Contact Us Have questions, comments, or ideas for a future episode? We'd love to hear from you! Contact Cooperatively Speaking at [email protected]. This podcast is for informational purposes only. The views expressed in this podcast may not be those of the host(s) or E&I Cooperative Services.

What happens when shared values meet shared vision? In this conversation with Rick Herrmann, VP/GM of Public Sector at Staples Business, we explore the origins of Staples’ sponsorship of E&Is EdPro NextGen Leadership Program and why leadership development in education matters now more than ever. From investing in people, not just products, to preparing future-ready procurement leaders, Rick shares Staples’ commitment to driving meaningful impact in education and where this partnership is headed next.  E&I Host: Casey Laurienzo, Vice President, Community Engagement & Education, E&I Cooperative Services Guest: Rick Herrmann, VP/GM of Public Sector for Staples Business  Relevant Links: E&I's NextGen Leadership Program Cooperatively Speaking is hosted by E&I Cooperative Services, the only member-owned, non-profit procurement cooperative exclusively focused on serving the needs of education. Visit our website at www.eandi.org/podcast. Contact Us Have questions, comments, or ideas for a future episode? We'd love to hear from you! Contact Cooperatively Speaking at [email protected]. This podcast is for informational purposes only. The views expressed in this podcast may not be those of the host(s) or E&I Cooperative Services.

In this episode of Cooperatively Speaking, Matt Levine is joined by Scott Nostaja from Segal to talk about the current state of higher education finances and the need for universities to determine how to better align their spending during this evolving climate. Tackling this tough conversation, Scott shares insights on common inefficiencies, legacy costs, and external pressures shaping campus budgets, while offering practical strategies for workforce planning, prioritizing resources, and making bold organizational changes. This conversation provides a clear roadmap for navigating the financial challenges facing higher education while seizing opportunities for sustainable growth.  Relevant Links: E&I's Segal Contract E&I Host: Matt Levine, E&I Category Marketing Manager, E&I Cooperative Services Guest: Scott Nostaja, Senior VP, Segal  Cooperatively Speaking is hosted by E&I Cooperative Services, the only member-owned, non-profit procurement cooperative exclusively focused on serving the needs of education. Visit our website at www.eandi.org/podcast. Contact Us Have questions, comments, or ideas for a future episode? We'd love to hear from you! Contact Cooperatively Speaking at [email protected]. This podcast is for informational purposes only. The views expressed in this podcast may not be those of the host(s) or E&I Cooperative Services.

In this episode of Cooperatively Speaking Allison Lambert speaks with Grant Wicks, Director of Sales at Patterson Veterinary Supply, about how institutions can simplify procurement and elevate veterinary care. From AI tools that deliver radiograph results in minutes to strategic sourcing that reduces administrative burden, Grant reveals how Patterson's partnership with E&I makes it easier than ever for universities to do more with less. With access to over 80,000 SKUs—including thousands of competitively priced essentials—Patterson is a one-stop procurement partner built for higher ed.  E&I Host: Allison Lambert, E&I Category Marketing Manager, Veterinary Services  Guest: Grant Wicks, Director of Sales, Patterson Veterinary Supply Relevant Links: E&I's Patterson Veterinary Contract Cooperatively Speaking is hosted by E&I Cooperative Services, the only member-owned, non-profit procurement cooperative exclusively focused on serving the needs of education. Visit our website at www.eandi.org/podcast. Contact Us Have questions, comments, or ideas for a future episode? We'd love to hear from you! Contact Cooperatively Speaking at [email protected]. This podcast is for informational purposes only. The views expressed in this podcast may not be those of the host(s) or E&I Cooperative Services.

As the regulatory landscape continues to evolve, supplier inclusion is facing new scrutiny - and new urgency. In this insightful episode of Cooperatively Speaking, Titus Martin sits down with three  respected voices in the field—Reginald Layton, Ralph Moore, and Jesse Moore—for a candid and actionable discussion on advancing supplier diversity in higher education and beyond. Together, they explore the business case for supplier inclusion, strategies for navigating today’s complex legal environment, and practical steps institutions can take to strengthen their programs. You’ll also hear how colleges and universities can leverage their E&I membership to drive meaningful impact in this space. E&I Hosts: Titus Martin, Executive Director of ESG, E&I Cooperative Services Guest: Reginald Layton, RGMA Chief Technology Officer and former Vice President for Supplier Diversity and Supply Chain Sustainability at Johnson Controls International; Ralph Moore, Founder & President of RGMA and a Supplier Diversity Advisory Council member; Jesse Moore, (Retired) Architect of the Purdue University’s Supplier Diversity Program Cooperatively Speaking is hosted by E&I Cooperative Services, the only member-owned, non-profit procurement cooperative exclusively focused on serving the needs of education. Visit our website at www.eandi.org/podcast. Contact Us Have questions, comments, or ideas for a future episode? We'd love to hear from you! Contact Cooperatively Speaking at [email protected]. This podcast is for informational purposes only. The views expressed in this podcast may not be those of the host(s) or E&I Cooperative Services.

What if the biggest variable in your cell culture experiment isn't what your cells are doing, but what they’re sensing? In this eye-opening episode of Cooperatively Speaking, host Allison Lambert sits down with Dr. Krista Rantanen of Baker to explore a commonly overlooked, but critical, factor in biomedical research: oxygen. They discuss how most human tissues operate at much lower oxygen levels than what’s used in traditional lab settings, and why that matters. From cancer research to stem cell studies, Dr. Rantanen explains how replicating real oxygen conditions can lead to more accurate, reliable science. The episode also touches on common misconceptions, simple tips for getting started, and emerging technologies making low-oxygen culture more accessible. Guest: Dr. Krista Rantanen, Director of Scientific Applications, Baker Host: Allison Lambert, Category Marketing Manager, E&I Cooperative Services  Relevant Links: E&I's Baker Contract Cooperatively Speaking is hosted by E&I Cooperative Services, the only member-owned, non-profit procurement cooperative exclusively focused on serving the needs of education. Visit our website at www.eandi.org/podcast. Contact Us Have questions, comments, or ideas for a future episode? We'd love to hear from you! Contact Cooperatively Speaking at [email protected]. This podcast is for informational purposes only. The views expressed in this podcast may not be those of the host(s) or E&I Cooperative Services.

In the final episode of our three-part “Unlocking AI in Education” series, host Matt Levine reconnects with Microsoft’s Carlos Fernandez to explore how Copilot is transforming everyday productivity. From drafting emails in Outlook to analyzing data in Excel, Carlos walks us through the practical ways Copilot integrates with Microsoft 365 to make faculty and staff more efficient. Hear tips, real-world examples, and onboarding insights that help ease the learning curve and accelerate adoption. Plus, get a glimpse of what’s on the horizon for M365 Copilot in higher ed. It’s a powerful close to a series focused on turning AI into actionable impact.  Guest: Carlos Fernandez, Director Specialist, Microsoft Host: Matt Levine, Category Marketing Manager, E&I Cooperative Services  Cooperatively Speaking is hosted by E&I Cooperative Services, the only member-owned, non-profit procurement cooperative exclusively focused on serving the needs of education. Visit our website at www.eandi.org/podcast. Contact Us Have questions, comments, or ideas for a future episode? We'd love to hear from you! Contact Cooperatively Speaking at [email protected]. This podcast is for informational purposes only. The views expressed in this podcast may not be those of the host(s) or E&I Cooperative Services.