In this episode, host Chris Lukianenko speaks with Nikki Meller, an inspiring entrepreneur who transitioned from nursing to become a leading figure in educational technology. Nikki’s story unfolds her bold journey from a successful nursing career to founding CREDuED, a company that integrates VR, AR, and generative AI into educational experiences. 

Nikki reveals the obstacles she faced, such as balancing family life and career, overcoming burnout, and finding her path in the male-dominated tech industry. The conversation explores the impact of immersive technology in education, how Nikki's experiences shaped her current work, and her advice for others contemplating a major career shift. This episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone interested in EdTech, career reinvention, or integrating technology into learning.

Guest Bio

Nikki Meller is the Founder and Director of CREDuED, an EdTech consultancy specializing in the integration of VR, AR, and generative AI into learning experiences. Before embarking on her entrepreneurial journey, Nikki enjoyed a successful career in nursing, ultimately serving as Director of Academic Programs in Nursing at Western Sydney University. In her role, she led the development of undergraduate curriculums, demonstrating a passion for creating transformative learning experiences.

Nikki's achievements extend beyond nursing education; she’s also received numerous awards for teaching excellence and is a Senior Fellow of Advance HE. Her transition into EdTech has seen her develop a successful consultancy that supports educational institutions and businesses in enhancing their training programs through cutting-edge technology. A visionary leader, Nikki is passionate about driving change, elevating educational standards, and empowering others to embrace career pivots.

Key Topics 

- Nikki’s Transition from Nursing to EdTech: Nikki shares her journey from being a cardiac technician and nurse to becoming a leader in educational technology, highlighting the courage needed to make such a significant career shift.

- Balancing Family and Career: Nikki discusses the challenges she faced balancing family life with her education and career progression, and how the support of her husband and family played a crucial role.

- Overcoming Burnout: Nikki's experience with burnout and how it became the catalyst for her career change provides valuable insights for others experiencing similar struggles.

- The Founding of CREDuED: Nikki explains the inspiration behind founding CREDuED and how she leveraged her expertise in nursing and education to create innovative learning solutions.

- Integrating VR, AR, and AI in Learning: Nikki delves into how VR, AR, and generative AI technologies can be effectively used to enhance learning experiences, offering examples from her work with CREDuED.

- The Importance of Mentorship: The role of mentorship in Nikki’s journey is explored, highlighting how she now pays it forward by mentoring others.

- Advice for Career Changers: Nikki offers practical advice for individuals contemplating a major career shift, emphasizing the importance of resilience, adaptability, and seeking support.

Nikki's Quotes

1. “You can always change. I think people are so nervous to pivot, but it is possible and sometimes even necessary for growth.”

2. “It's OK to take a leap of faith. If you want to do something different, why not make it so that you can facilitate it?”

3. “My journey taught me that you don't have to give up your day job to pursue a passion or a pivot. You can do it as a transition.”

Links

- Nikki Meller LinkedIn]

- CREDuED