Shows
Stories of Change & CreativityBety Téllez Mora's Path to a Creative CareerHow do you keep moving forward when the road isn’t clear? In this episode of Stories of Change and Creativity – Scotland Edition, I sit down with Bety Téllez Mora, Content and Campaigns Officer at Queen Margaret University - Edinburgh. Bety shares how she navigates change, challenges, and career pivots—across countries, cultures, and creative fields.From journalism to digital storytelling, Bety shares how embracing change, taking risks, and staying curious has helped her shape a meaningful creative journey—one step at a time.“I was self-conscious about having three degrees and not much experience...2025-07-0633 min
Stories of Change & CreativityEducation Abroad Scotland: Jamin Ochoa’s Life-Changing JourneyStudy abroad Scotland. An unforgettable experience of culture, courage, and personal growth. Texas State University junior Jamin Ochoa signed up for a public relations class in Scotland and it's been a life-changing experience. Jamin shares his journey of personal transformation from the campus of Queen Margaret University near Edinburgh. Key Takeaways• Jamin connected to his family heritage in Scotland• Campus-based programs allow students to truly experience living in another country• Explore Edinburgh Castle, Dean's Village, and the Highlands while finding joy in simple activities• Study abroad is an opportunity t...2025-06-2513 min
Stories of Change & CreativityFrom Freshman to Fearless: Grace White's Scottish AdventureJust say yes to opportunities. Grace White, a rising sophomore public relations major at Texas State University, shares her transformative experiences about her three-week study abroad program in Scotland. Grace was a student in my Intro to Public Relations class at Queen Margaret University. We sat down in the library on campus and I recorded our conversation on my iPhone. We talked about how a classroom presentation evolved into a life-changing journey. Key Takeaways• Overcoming imposter syndrome as a first year student considering study abroad• Surprised by the warmth and friendlin...2025-06-2517 min
Stories of Change & CreativityTake a Chance on Scotland: Angie Olmos and Study AbroadEducation abroad gives students the chance to discover the world beyond their familiar borders. On this episode of Stories of Change and Creativity: Scotland Edition, I had the chance to talk with Angie Olmos. Angie is a sophomore Mass Communication major minoring in International Studies at Texas State University. She's in the Intro to Public Relations class I'm teaching this summer at Queen Margaret University near Edinburgh. Together we chat about how global experiences shape who we are and prepare us for the future. Key Takeaways• Living on campus creates a more au...2025-06-2512 min
Stories of Change & CreativityFrom Texas State to Scotland: Tori Pickett's Study Abroad StoryWhat’s it like to leave the U.S. for the first time and study in a new country? In this short series I'm highlighting our Texas State University education abroad program in Scotland. Students and faculty spent three weeks living and working on the campus of Queen Margaret University, near Edinburgh, Scotland. Join me as I sit down with students, faculty, and local professionals to capture their stories.Tori, a sophomore advertising major, shares her journey as a first-time international traveler. From navigating airports solo to building confidence through creative PR projects with local Scottish businesses, Tor...2025-06-2421 min
Stories of Change & CreativityHow Writing Retreats Unlock Creativity: Insight from Dr. Vani NaikAre you a professor, researcher or writer? Do you battle with distraction and writer's block? If so, a writing retreat might be just what you need to finish your project. Retreats provide academics with distraction-free environments to focus solely on their writing projects, helping them make significant progress in a short time.While teaching a class at Queen Margaret University in Scotland, I stumbled upon a writing retreat just down the hall from my classroom. I asked Dr. Vani Naik, Researcher Developer at Edinburgh Napier University, for a quick interview on my iPhone. I'm fascinated with the creat...2025-06-1215 min
Stories of Change & CreativityCollege Grads: You've got thisFor college gradsIn this short solo-episode, I hope to send a message of encouragement to college grads. Standing at life's crossroads after graduation doesn't mean you need to have all the answers—just take that first step. You've got this. The path reveals itself through action, so it's important to make a start.Key Takeaways• Feeling uncertain is normal and where the significant growth begins• Life isn't about having a perfect plan, but about learning as you go• A recent reunion with...2025-06-0205 min
Stories of Change & CreativityCreating a TEDx Talk with a little help from my friendsJudy Oskam shares the behind-the-scenes journey of creating and delivering her TEDx talk at Texas State University. She turned the microphone over to her long time friend and mentor Carole Barasch about the process, challenges, and insights gained. Earlier in her career, Carole was an award-winning TV news anchor and reporter and public relations professional.This is an honest conversation about the emotional and strategic work that powers a successful TEDx talk—mentorship, message clarity, and showing up vulnerable. In this episode, we talk about: • The application process - it begins months before the actua...2025-05-1621 min
Stories of Change & CreativityKyle Hawley: Creativity, Motherhood & Meaningful WorkIn this episode of Stories of Change & Creativity, I talk with Kyle Hawley, founder of Letterpress PLAY and creative director at 26 Keys. Kyle shares how growing up in a multi-generational household shaped her creative journey and her approach to entrepreneurship and motherhood.🎙️ In this episode, you’ll hear about:Kyle’s path from a theater and mass communication student at Texas State University to entrepreneurHow a thesis project on post-WWII playgrounds led to the creation of Letterpress PLAYLife lessons from Kyle's grandparentsBalancing motherhood, art, and business by staying grounded U...2025-05-1131 min