ALP: The Admissions Leadership Podcast

Carin Smith

Ken Anselment / Carin Smith Season 9 Episode 4

Carin Smith, domestic recruitment manager and Chicago regional representative for Beloit College (and a former member of Ken's team at Lawrence who helped him learn how to be an admissions director through a creative partnership she arranged), talks about how to lead without title, and the four reasons why this has been a deliberate choice she has made over her four decades in college admissions. She'll also share three essential perspectives on what makes a good leader.

This episode is dedicated to Molly Arnold (1962-2010), without whom neither host nor guest would be the people or professionals they are today.

Rapid Descent

  • Walkout song: Centerfield by John Fogerty
  • Best recent read: The Boys in the Boat by Daniel James Brown
  • Eager to read next: Leaders Eat Last by Simon Sinek
  • Favorite podcast:  None, "I'm an audiobook fan."
  • Favorite thing to make in the kitchen: Cinnamon scones.
  • Taking and keeping notes: Lined paper by Rifle and a sharp pencil with eraser.
  • Memorable bit of advice: Used delayed send [on emails].
  • Bucket list: Chicago Cubs spring training [to which the host replies, "Go Brewers."]


The ALP is supported by RHB. Music arranged by Ryan Anselment