Behind the Scenes Podcast: All Episodes for Season 1 Available Now!
The LEC is proud to share our newly created podcast designed to go Behind the Scenes with the heart of Nova Southeastern University’s educational experience, our amazing faculty. Join us as we explore their innovative teaching methods, inspiring stories and unique perspectives. Hosted by Marti Snyder, Ph.D., LEC’s Director of Faculty Professional Development, the podcast features special guests as they explore the passion and creativity that inspire our educators to connect with students and bring learning to life. Whether you are a lifelong educator, a student, or simply curious about the magic that happens at NSU, this podcast will provide you with an understanding of how our faculty make lasting impacts on the academic journeys of all NSU Sharks.
Ep 1: Kevin Willeford, OD, MS, Ph.D.
In the first episode, Dr. Snyder interviews Dr. Kevin Willeford who is an Assistant Professor in NSU’s College of Optometry. Kevin shares what he does to engage students, what drives him as a faculty member and what he would do with an unlimited budget.
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Ep 2: Barrie Litt, Ph.D.
We spotlight Dr. Barri Litt, a CPA, award-winning professor, and self-described “social butterfly,” who brings passion, presence, and personality into every accounting class. From banning technology in favor of deeper focus to integrating mindfulness breaks and real-world AI applications, Dr. Litt shares how she transforms technical content into human-centered learning. Discover how her people-first teaching style builds community, sparks curiosity, and equips students with skills far beyond the balance sheet.
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Ep 3: Lori Dribin, Ph.D.
We sit down with Dr. Lori Dribin, the longest-serving faculty member in NSU’s KPCOM, to explore her decades-long journey in medical education. From her early days with slide projectors to pioneering digital histology labs, Dr. Dribin shares how she fosters deep student connection—even in large, hybrid classrooms—through humor, personalization, and creative teaching techniques like clay models and animal imagery. Tune in to hear how she continues to evolve with the times while staying grounded in the art of truly knowing her students.
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Ep 4: Charlene Desir Ed.D.
Dr. Charlene Desir shares her journey from school psychologist to full professor, revealing how reflection, identity, and mentorship shape the learning experience. With a focus on the social, psychological, and spiritual growth of students, Dr. Desir discusses building student relationships, guiding doctoral candidates, integrating undergraduate research, and navigating the evolving role of technology and AI in education. Tune in to hear how she brings empathy and purpose into every classroom interaction.
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Ep 5: Christopher Lynch PharmD, MEd, DPLA
We sit down with Dr. Chris Lynch from the College of Pharmacy to discuss his journey from Navy officer to educator, and how that experience informs his approach to teaching professional identity and leadership. Dr. Lynch shares how he uses personality assessments, vulnerability, and trust-building to help students develop not only clinical knowledge but the confidence and emotional intelligence they need to succeed as future professionals. His commitment to connection, reflection, and growth in the classroom makes this a conversation you won’t want to miss.
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Ep 6: Yuri Zagvazdin, Ph.D.
Dr. Yuri Zagvazdin of the Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Allopathic Medicine shares his remarkable teaching journey, shaped by his training in physiology and neuroscience and inspired by early connections to Ivan Pavlov’s legacy. Dr. Zagvazdin reflects on how his passion for learning, coupled with empathy and humor, helps students engage deeply with complex scientific concepts. He discusses the importance of creating a safe space for questions, modeling intellectual curiosity, and fostering critical thinking in future physicians. Tune in to hear how Dr. Zagvazdin brings both heart and rigor to his teaching—helping students find confidence and joy in mastering challenging material.
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Behind the Scenes: How Faculty Bring Learning to Life at NSU
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Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Amazon Music | SharkMedia | Linktree