Best VIVACITY Podcasts (2025)

1
One Month Into the New Standards – Our Journey, Lessons, and Surprises 8:05

3d ago8:05

8:05

In this special reflection episode, Angela Connell-Richards shares an honest and insightful look at what the first month under the new 2025 Standards has really been like. From wins and breakthroughs to unexpected challenges, Angela takes you behind the scenes of her work with RTOs over the past month—revealing what’s working, what’s still settling…

1
Complaint = Audit: Building a Bulletproof Response Process 9:03

10d ago9:03

9:03

In this crucial episode, Angela Connell-Richards sheds light on one of the fastest-growing audit triggers under the 2025 Standards: complaints. Even one unresolved student complaint can lead to a full ASQA investigation—so how you respond matters more than ever. Key points discussed: ✅ How ASQA uses complaints to trigger audits ✅ What makes a compl…

1
High-Risk Products: What You Deliver Could Be Your Weakest Link 10:19

17d ago10:19

10:19

In this high-stakes episode, Angela Connell-Richards breaks down the reality of delivering high-risk training products in the VET sector. From early childhood to cookery, some qualifications are magnets for ASQA scrutiny—and Angela shows you how to stay protected. Key points discussed: ✅ What defines a “high-risk” qualification or unit ✅ How to ass…

1
You Survived the Deadline... Now What? 6:29

24d ago6:29

6:29

We've crossed the 1 July 2025 compliance deadline, but the real work for RTOs starts now. Having updated policies alone doesn't make you audit-ready, especially as ASQA adopts a more vigilant, risk-based approach to monitoring. Top three post-deadline compliance traps: assuming document updates equal compliance, underestimating audit triggers, and …

1
Scope Trap: Why Expansion Can Trigger Audit Disaster 10:26

1M ago10:26

10:26

In this timely episode, Angela Connell-Richards explores the compliance risks that come with adding courses to your RTO’s scope—especially under the 2025 Standards. What seems like growth can quickly turn into an audit nightmare without the right preparation. Key points discussed: ✅ The audit risks tied to scope additions and amendments ✅ How to pr…

1
Funding Chaos: Navigating Australia's Complex VET Landscape with Lauren Hollows 45:46

1M ago45:46

45:46

🎙 In this episode of the RTO Superhero Podcast, Angela Connell-Richards and co-host Lauren Hollows tackle a confronting reality in Australia’s VET sector—how arbitrary funding decisions are crippling high-performing private RTOs. Despite delivering 80% of Australia’s training, private RTOs receive just 30% of government funding. Even worse? RTOs wi…

1
Beyond 1 July – Building a Culture of Self-Assurance, Not Just Compliance 6:47

1M ago6:47

6:47

In this forward-looking episode, Angela Connell-Richards explores what it takes for RTOs to move beyond the 1 July 2025 Standards deadline and embrace a culture of continuous self-assurance. Rather than treating compliance as a checklist, Angela invites you to reframe it as an ongoing journey of quality, improvement, and organisational excellence. …

1
Funding Fairness: Public vs Private RTOs with Lauren Hollows 30:13

1M ago30:13

30:13

🎙 In this episode of the RTO Superhero Podcast, Angela Connell-Richards, with Lauren Hollows, dives into one of the biggest funding battles in Australia’s VET sector—the growing inequality between TAFE NSW and private RTOs. Private RTOs are under increasing pressure as TAFE NSW now receives 80% of all Smart and Skilled funding—despite data showing …

1
Credential Chaos: Mapping Your Trainers to the 2025 Standards 9:52

1M ago9:52

9:52

In this practical episode, Angela Connell-Richards helps you decode the updated credential requirements for trainers and assessors under the new 2025 Standards. If you’re unsure whether your team meets current expectations—or how to evidence it—this episode is your step-by-step guide. Key points discussed: ✅ What the Credential Policy now requires …

1
VET Talks: Future-Proof Your RTO - Embracing the 2025 Standards with Confidence 1:07:03

2M ago1:07:03

1:07:03

VET Talks: Future-Proof Your RTO - Embracing the 2025 Standards with Confidence In this insightful episode of VETtalks, join Scott Rogers (CEO of eSkilled) and Angela Connell (CEO of Vivacity RTO Consulting) for a focused Q&A on navigating the upcoming 2025 Standards for RTOs. With major reforms now on the horizon, this episode dives into why it’s …

1
LLND in the Real World: What RTOs Must Know About Standard 2.2 39:53

2M ago39:53

39:53

In this episode of the RTO Superhero Podcast, Angela Connell-Richards and co-host Maciek Fibrich unpack one of the most misunderstood aspects of the 2025 Standards for RTOs—Standard 2.2, with a laser focus on assessing Language, Literacy, Numeracy and Digital (LLND) skills prior to enrolment. There’s been growing confusion in the VET sector: 🌀 Do R…

1
At the Brink: Why Private RTOs Can’t Afford Another Year of Funding Cuts 24:35

2M ago24:35

24:35

In this urgent episode of the RTO Superhero Podcast, Angela Connell-Richards takes you inside a growing crisis in Australia’s vocational education sector. Private RTOs—who deliver over 70% of the nation’s training—are being hit with devastating funding cuts, unfunded compliance reforms, and a wave of closures that threaten access, jobs, and student…

1
Episode 15 | Unpacking the Impact of Tariffs on K12 Tech and District Budgets with Bo Patterson 14:30

2M ago14:30

14:30

In this episode, host Nicky Acevedo sits down with Bo Patterson to unpack the impact of tariffs on the K-12 tech industry and school budgets. They explore how Vivacity Tech is helping districts adapt, from utilizing refurbished devices and buybacks to smart procurement and brand-new service plans like FleetAssure. Bo shares real-world insights into…

1
We Updated Our Policies… So We’re Compliant, Right? 8:31

2M ago8:31

8:31

In this thought-provoking episode, Angela Connell-Richards challenges the common assumption that simply updating your policies and procedures means your RTO is compliant. She explores the deeper truth behind the new Standards: implementation, understanding, and continuous review are what really matter now. Key points discussed: ✅ Why policy updates…

1
The Blind Leading the Compliant 45:44

2M ago45:44

45:44

As we race towards the 1 July 2025 implementation of the Revised Standards for RTOs, one uncomfortable truth is becoming clear: many RTOs are more prepared than the national regulator itself. In this unfiltered and empowering bonus episode of the RTO Superhero Podcast, Angela Connell-Richards takes you behind the scenes of what’s really happening w…

1
The Top 5 Mistakes RTOs Are Still Making Before July — And How to Fix Them Now 9:59

2M ago9:59

9:59

In this timely episode, Angela Connell-Richards tackles the most common mistakes RTOs are making as they scramble to prepare for the 1 July 2025 Standards deadline. Drawing on her work with dozens of RTOs in recent months, Angela shines a light on the blind spots, oversights, and shortcuts that could cost you dearly—and, most importantly, explains …

1
Audit Triggers You’re Not Watching: Scope, Complaints & High-Risk Products 9:41

2M ago9:41

9:41

In this insight-packed episode, Angela Connell-Richards uncovers the silent risks that could land your RTO in an ASQA audit—even if you’ve already met the 1 July deadline. From additions to scope, to complaints, to the delivery of high-risk qualifications, Angela shows how audit triggers have changed—and what RTOs must now do to stay audit-ready. K…

1
Marketing vs Misleading – Staying Compliant in How You Promote Training 8:32

3M ago8:32

8:32

In this essential episode, Angela Connell-Richards tackles one of the most overlooked audit risks for RTOs—non-compliant marketing. With the 2025 Standards now in full effect, your course flyers, website, and social media content are all under ASQA’s lens. Angela explores how a single misleading phrase can trigger an audit—and what you can do to st…

1
Policies with Purpose: How I’m Rewriting Compliance for the 2025 8:58

3M ago8:58

8:58

In this episode, Angela takes you behind the scenes of her massive compliance rewrite project. Discover why 2025 is the year to rethink—not just update—your policies and procedures. Angela shares the philosophy, strategy, and practical steps she’s using to ensure Vivacity’s documents empower RTOs to meet the new Standards with confidence. Key point…

1
Countdown to Compliance – Your Final 6-Week RTO Survival Guide 8:40

3M ago8:40

8:40

In this episode, Angela Connell-Richards breaks down the essential roadmap for RTOs facing the final stretch before the 1 July 2025 Standards go live. With just six weeks left, this survival guide helps you focus, prioritise, and take action without overwhelm. Angela shares her insider tips, drawn from decades of experience, to help you make the mo…

1
Leading Through Challenge: My Journey Navigating Business, Health, and Hope 6:02

3M ago6:02

6:02

In this deeply personal episode, Angela Connell-Richards, CEO of Vivacity and host of the RTO Superhero Podcast, opens up about her recent diagnoses of thyroid cancer and renal cancer — and how early detection, proactive care, and strong leadership systems have helped her navigate both business and health challenges with resilience and clarity. Ang…

1
Under Pressure: International Education, ASQA Scrutiny & the Future of CRICOS RTOs with Lauren Boon-Hollows 1:10:00

3M ago1:10:00

1:10:00

In this explosive episode of the RTO Superhero Podcast, Angela Connell-Richards is joined by compliance powerhouse Lauren Boon-Hollows to unpack the growing crisis in international education across Australia. From mounting government pressure and audit inconsistencies to the harsh realities facing CRICOS RTOs, Angela and Lauren aren’t pulling any p…

1
Assessment Alignment: Valid, Reliable & Audit-Ready 48:32

4M ago48:32

48:32

In this powerful episode, Angela Connell-Richards sits down with assessment expert Maciek Fibriek to unpack one of the most critical topics under the new 2025 Standards—assessment practices and audit readiness. Together, they dive deep into: ✅ What’s actually changed under Standard 1.3 ✅ Why fit-for-purpose assessment means contextualising for your…

1
Trainer Compliance Under the New Standards: What RTOs Must Do Now with Lauren Boon-Hollows 35:05

4M ago35:05

35:05

In this episode of the RTO Superhero Podcast, Angela Connell-Richards and Lauren Hollows explore the essential elements of structured and engaging training that meets compliance under Standards 1.1 & 1.2. They break down how to design well-paced training programs, avoid the pitfalls of condensed courses, and ensure students remain engaged throughou…

1
VET Workforce Management & Industry Experts – What RTOs Need to Know with Maciek Fibrich 19:54

4M ago19:54

19:54

In this episode of the RTO Superhero Podcast, host Angela Connell-Richards is joined once again by Maciek Fibrich, RTO coach and compliance expert, to unpack the major changes in Quality Area 3 – VET Workforce Management under the new 2025 Standards for RTOs. With a fresh focus on whole-of-organisation workforce management, these changes mean that …

1
The New Standards Have Landed: What RTOs Need to Know Now with Lauren Boon-Hollows 50:49

4M ago50:49

50:49

In this episode of the RTO Superhero Podcast, Angela Connell-Richards is joined by Lauren Hollows to discuss the critical role of clear and transparent student information under Standards 2.1 & 2.2. They break down what RTOs must communicate before enrolment, how to avoid misleading marketing, and why realistic course durations are essential for co…

1
Breaking Down the New RTO Standards – Risk Management & Compliance with Maciek Fibrich 30:57

5M ago30:57

30:57

🎙️ Episode 8: The Essentials of a Compliant Training System In this episode of the RTO Superhero Podcast, Angela Connell-Richards is joined by Maciek Fibrich to explore what it takes to build a compliant, high-quality training system under the revised Standards for RTOs (1.1 & 1.2). They break down the key compliance requirements, common pitfalls, …

1
Episode 14 | Unlocking Value at Vivacity with Ben Erickson 23:22

5M ago23:22

23:22

In this episode, host Nicky Acevedo sits down with Ben Erickson, Chief Revenue Officer, at Vivacity Tech, to discuss the company’s innovative approach to supporting schools and IT directors as they navigate the AI tool landscape. Ben shares valuable insights on how tech directors can pilot Gemini Education, Google's generative AI tool, to streamlin…

1
The New RTO Standards 2025: What You Need to Know 22:30

5M ago22:30

22:30

🚨 The wait is over! The New Standards for RTOs 2025 are finalised and come into effect on 1 July 2025. If you’re an RTO owner, compliance manager, trainer, or assessor, this episode is a must-listen! In this episode of the RTO Superhero Podcast, host Angela Connell-Richards breaks down everything you need to know about the new compliance framework,…

1
Supporting Students with Disabilities – What RTOs Must Do with Lauren Boon-Hollows 30:01

5M ago30:01

30:01

In this episode of the RTO Superhero Podcast, Angela Connell-Richards and Lauren Hollows explore supporting students with disabilities under the revised Standards for RTOs. With a greater emphasis on reasonable adjustments, compliance, and trainer responsibilities, they break down what RTOs need to do to ensure inclusive, accessible training. 🎙️ Ke…

1
The Future of Vocational Education in Australia with Maciek Fibrich 41:50

5M ago41:50

41:50

Welcome back to the RTO Superhero Podcast! In this episode, host Angela Connell-Richards is joined once again by Maciek Fibrich, who is caravanning around Australia while working with RTOs. Together, they explore the future of vocational education in Australia and the impact of the new standards for RTOs. In this thought-provoking discussion, Angel…

1
Understanding VET Student Support – What’s Changing? with Lauren Boon-Hollows 36:45

5M ago36:45

36:45

Join Angela Connell-Richards and Lauren Hollows in this insightful episode of the RTO Superhero Podcast, where they break down the changes to VET Student Support Services under the Revised Standards for RTOs. With the introduction of Standards 2.3 and 2.4, student support has now been given its own Quality Area, significantly impacting how RTOs mus…

1
Choosing the Right RTO Consultant: Avoiding Pitfalls and Ensuring Compliance Success 19:58

6M ago19:58

19:58

Not all consultants are created equal—and choosing the wrong one can cost you everything. In this episode, Angela Connell-Richards reveals the hidden dangers of hiring cheap, inexperienced consultants—and why “you get what you pay for” is more true than ever in RTO land. You’ll hear real stories (including one facing a tribunal 😱), learn how to spo…

1
Breaking Down the New Standards – What RTOs Need to Know with Maciek Fibrich 37:43

6M ago37:43

37:43

In this episode of the RTO Superhero Podcast, host Angela Connell-Richards is joined for the first time by Maciek Fibrich, who will be a regular guest throughout the year as they unpack the Revised Standards for RTOs. Together, they break down what RTOs need to know right now about the compliance changes, including: 📜 What’s changing (and what’s no…

1
Adapting to New Training Standards: Compliance and Risk Management in RTOs with Lauren Boon-Hollows 50:10

7M ago50:10

50:10

In this power-packed first episode of 2025, host Angela Connell-Richards is joined by industry legend Lauren Hollows to unpack what the Revised Standards for RTOs really mean—and why waiting to prepare could cost you big. 💡 You’ll learn: What’s changing from 1 July 2025—and why it matters The risks of leaving compliance to the last minute How ASQA’…

1
Episode 13 | A Year in Review with Vivacity Tech's Eli Maloley 22:11

7M ago22:11

22:11

In this episode, host Nicky Acevedo sits down with Eli Maloley, founder of Vivacity Tech, to reflect on the company's incredible journey through 2024. Eli shares milestones, from securing a patent to achieving substantial revenue growth, all while emphasizing the role of the passionate Vivacity team. Diving into challenges, Eli discusses how the te…

1
Episode 12 44:57

8M ago44:57

44:57

In this episode, host Nicky Acevedo and Drew Sidel dive into the extensive security features of Google Workspace for Education, highlighting their benefits for schools. Drew emphasizes the importance of robust security tools provided even in the free editions, securing schools against threats efficiently without the need for expensive third-party s…

1
Episode 11 34:22

9M ago34:22

34:22

In this episode, Nicky Acevedo chats with Erick Buenrostro, a digital resource and content specialist with over 12 years of experience in education. Erick shares his insights on integrating AI tools like Google's Gemini for Education into schools, highlighting its responsiveness and security features, which make it an invaluable resource for studen…

1
Episode 10 43:25

9M ago43:25

43:25

In this episode, Nicky Acevedo chats with Kim Zimmer, the co-director of learning and innovation at Aspen School District. They dive into Aspen’s transition from a BYOD policy to adopting Chromebook Plus. Kim highlights how this move addresses equity concerns and enhances device management while providing students with high-performance tools for le…

1
Episode 09 33:48

10M ago33:48

33:48

In this episode, Nicky Acevedo sits down with Drew Sidel, the Head of Google Workspace for North America, about the exciting deployment of Gemini AI. Drew discusses how Gemini is integrated within Google Workspace tools like Gmail, Docs, Sheets, and Slides, making AI accessible without significant change management. Teachers, administrators, and IT…

1
VIVÁC Winery one of New Mexico's rising stars 31:25

10M ago31:25

31:25

Sip, share, shape our podcast! Join us this episode on a road trip to New Mexico to visit the team at Vivác Winery. Brothers Jesse and Chris Padberg share their journey from college students and European explorers to winemakers. With an adventurous spirit and the perfect location for growing grapes, their story continues with award winning wines an…

1
Cotes de Bordeaux through the eyes of Chateau Couchebout 40:17

10M ago40:17

40:17

Sip, share, shape our podcast! You may never have heard of the Cotes of Bordeaux. Great, we're here to share this amazing Bordeaux appellation and Bordeaux wine with you through our interview with Bruno Lallemand from Chateau Couchebout in the Cotes de Bourg region. Neither Left Bank nor Right Bank, Couchebout produces amazing red wines in their ow…

1
Non Alcoholic Wines: These wine alternatives are on trend and growing! 40:31

11M ago40:31

40:31

Sip, share, shape our podcast! In this episode, we dive into the exciting world of non alcoholic wines, a rapidly growing category with impressive stats. Alcohol free, zero alcohol, alcohol removed, whatever you want to call it, these wine alternatives are claiming a regular space on wine lists at tremendous rates. Beyond grape juice, these wines h…

1
Low Sugar Wines: How Madame Zero is changing the game in Champagne 1:06:02

11M ago1:06:02

1:06:02

Sip, share, shape our podcast! Hidden sugar in wine may sound scary or gross, but there are winemakers with 100% focus on low sugar wine!. We host Madame Zero's source of inspiration, Mathew Massey, to share how his vision for low sugar wines, Champagne to be exact, is playing out in fabulous style. Buzz words in wine from sugar free wine, zero sug…

1
Beyond Bottles: Exploring Alternative Packaging for Wine 56:34

12M ago56:34

56:34

Sip, share, shape our podcast! Do you think bottles are the only way to package wine? We're here to change the way you think about alternative packaging for wine! In the world of wine trends, packaging for wine may not be the sexiest, but we think there are some pretty cool things going on! We're not talking about ordinary wine storage boxes or win…

1
Episode 08 38:55

12M ago38:55

38:55

In this episode, Nicky Acevedo chats with Anthony Padrnos, the Executive Director of Technology at Osseo Area Schools. Anthony shares insights on how understanding the "why" behind instructional design can transform educational environments. He emphasizes that effective teaching relies on high-quality educators who adapt to students' needs, leverag…

1
Noble Grapes: What Are they and Do They Matter? (Wine Grapes Series Part 3) 1:06:00

12M ago1:06:00

1:06:00

Sip, share, shape our podcast! From Lost Grapes, to Hybrid Grapes, this episode rounds out our exploration with Noble Grapes, or Noble Wine. Read on for a short snippet of what we are covering, but tune in for all the fun! So, what exactly are Noble Grapes? Well, it depends on who you ask! One camp uses the 5 traditional Bordeaux varieties as their…

1
Hybrid Wine Grapes: Part 2 of Our Wine Grapes Series 1:08:49

1y ago1:08:49

1:08:49

Sip, share, shape our podcast! It's here! Part 2 of our Wine Grapes series! In this episode, we're going beyond European Vitis Vinifera grapes to explore hybrid varieties you may never have tried! From Vidal Blanc (aptly named after it's founder, Jean Louis Vidal), a highly planted hybrid grape in New York state, to Marechal Foch growing in Minneso…

1
Lost Grapes: Creating Rare Wines from Near Extinction (Part 1: Exploring Grapes Series) 50:49

1y ago50:49

50:49

Sip, share, shape our podcast! If we asked you to name rare wines made from nearly extinct grapes, could you name any? Neither could we until we started looking beyond our local wine shop and city limit! What we discovered are entire species of wine grapes being rediscovered and replanted. They're making a comeback in vineyards from grand cru estat…

1
Te Whare Ra: Exploring Wineries in Marlborough NZ 1:03:31

1y ago1:03:31

1:03:31

Sip, share, shape our podcast! It's hot in Texas so what better way to beat the heat than to take a trip to visit wineries in Marlborough. New Zealand that is. The Marlborough wine region is booming and going beyond Sauvignon Blanc. Cellar doors offer tastings and tours of some of the best wines from NZ. The family estate of Te Whare Ra is our stop…

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