In this very special episode of the Student Hub Live Podcast, Heidi and Scott speak with Rob Moore, an Associate Lecturer at The Open University. As one of our main Student Hub Live presenters, you will likely to know Rob as the reassuring, kind host who joins us from his ‘study shack’. However, what few students may realise, is that Rob has been dedicated to supporting OU students for over twenty years and has helped literally thousands to succeed.

Did you know, Rob’s role sees him supporting OU students serving prison sentences? Plus, students serving in active war zones? In this episode, Rob also shares details of quite how varied and fulfilling his role as an Open University Associate Lecturer is, plus the details of the most memorable graduation ceremony (featuring a rather lovely celebrity guest) and talks about the importance of connecting with other students where you can.

Heidi and Scott would love to hear from you. If you have any feedback on today’s show, please email studenthub@open.ac.uk and don’t forget to follow former OU student Scott from Mad About History on Tik Tok and Instagram.

In the final episode of the Student Hub Live Podcast: Summer Edition, Scott outlines the fascinating history of Stonehenge and stresses the importance of caring for historical sites and artefacts.

Plus, Heidi and Scott ask each other a series of questions, including what courses they would design if they could, what they would title their autobiographies, which fictional character they would have dinner with, the superpowers they would choose and one piece of advice they would give. Finally, they promote the importance of mental wellbeing. Remember, as an Open University student you have access to extensive mental health support, including the OU's wellbeing app and free access to the Shout 85258 text support service. Don't hesitate to reach out if you're having a hard time, The Open University is always here for you.

If you've enjoyed the series and would like to hear more from Heidi and Scott, please let us know by emailing studenthub@open.ac.uk.

In today's episode, the penultimate in our Student Hub Live Podcast Summer Edition series, Heidi puts Scott on the spot and tests his Open University knowledge. We would love for you to join in wherever you are listening to the podcast, let us know your score via studenthub@open.ac.uk. If you'd like to find out more facts about the OU or verify any of the answers in today's quiz, click here.

Plus, in our 'World Wide Webber' feature, Scott provides an overview on the Battle of Hastings in response to a query from OU student Steve (rather fitting considering William the Conqueror is Scott's 28th Great Grandad!)

In this episode, Heidi and Scott discuss how to bounce back from disappointment, especially university grades which don’t align with your expectations! They talk about how to shift your perspective and use setbacks as an opportunity for growth. They explore some of the issues faced by students who have to sacrifice time with their families and how to manage feelings of ‘letting down’ those around you. Scott talks about studying during lockdown and offers advice on how to help communicate the demands of study with your significant other. Finally, he outlines the origin of Rome in response to a request by Charlotte who sent a DM on Instagram for the podcast’s new feature, the World Wide Webber, where Scott, a history expert, condenses a significant period in history into three minutes.

With only two episodes remaining in the summer series, don’t hesitate to get in touch using studenthub@open.ac.uk.

In this episode, you’ll find out why Scott found himself in a (very hot) room with LeBron James, Shaquille O’Neal, Eminem and Snoop Dog this week, plus we discuss distance learning versus learning at a bricks and mortar university.

Are you thinking of joining the OU but are concerned you might feel isolated? Are you worried there won’t be enough pastoral care? In which case, this episode is designed for you…

Plus, Scott, the founder of Mad About History, talks about the origins of beer and pizza and the historical artefacts he is most eager to see.

In this episode we mention the following:

• The role of the OU’s Student Support Team
• The disability support available with the OU
• MA in Classical Studies
• MA in Art History

Are you finding the podcast a useful resource? We would love to hear from you. Email Heidi and Scott using studenthub@open.ac.uk.

In this episode, Scott and Heidi talk about the importance of rest for wellbeing and effective study. Scott outlines how exercise and reading are his go-to relaxation strategies, while Heidi discusses her trips away, solo-dates and setting healthy boundaries.

They also discuss the freedom that comes with being able to simply admit you don't know something and the importance of taking guilt-free breaks from study and life when needed.

We really hope you find this episode helpful and reassuring. Scott and Heidi present and produce this podcast in their own time for free in order to provide support for OU students so please don't forget to email us your feedback using studenthub@open.ac.uk.

In this week’s podcast, Scott and Heidi discuss study strategies and expectations versus reality when it comes to studying with The Open University. Plus, Scott offers tips on how he deals with online trolls, shares fascinating history facts about potatoes, perpetual stews (gross) and early South American civilizations, and talks about the importance of not slipping behind in your studies. Heidi discusses the value of self-compassion while studying and shares details of her toughest study day EVER where she ended up crying in McDonald’s at midnight!

We really hope you are enjoying the series this summer. Don’t forget to get in touch with any questions via studenthub@open.ac.uk