Shows
WGU Alumni PodcastFrom the Philippines to Michigan: Daniel Velez’s Healthcare JourneyAfter earning his BSN in the Philippines, Daniel Velez built a life and career in the United States rooted in service, discipline, and family legacy. Two decades later, already serving in executive leadership, he made a surprising decision: return to school.In this episode of the WGU Alumni Podcast, Daniel shares how he pursued his MSN while leading senior living operations in Michigan, balancing CMS standards, financial performance, and a culture of empathy for residents and staff alike. We talk about the differences between nursing pathways in the U.S. and abroad, why leadership in post-acute care...
2026-02-1817 minWGU Alumni PodcastFrom Marketing to Math Class: Steve Sandberg’s Career Change StoryAfter nearly two decades in marketing, Steve Sandberg felt a quiet pull toward something more meaningful. What began as curiosity became action and that ultimately led him to a high school math classroom.In this episode of the WGU Alumni podcast, Steve shares how he walked away from a comfortable career to earn his master’s in secondary math education at WGU, navigating licensure requirements, pandemic disruptions, and the uncertainty of a mid-career pivot. Within days of graduating, he landed a teaching role at an alternative high school, where smaller classes and one-to-one instruction give students a re...
2026-02-0428 minWGU Alumni PodcastLaid Off, Then Leveled Up: Dax Rich’s 60-Day ComebackTwo-time WGU grad Dax Rich was laid off, one day before his birthday. Suddenly, everything was on the line. Dax had to choose: spiral or level up.In this episode, Dax shares how preparation before crisis, disciplined habits, and hands-on AI tools helped him rebuild confidence and land his next role in just 60 days. We talk career resilience, leadership clarity, and why systems beat motivation when everything feels uncertain.If you’re facing a pivot, or want to be ready before one finds you, this episode offers practical steps, real tools, and the mindset to mo...
2026-01-2723 min
Inside the Learning Experience with WGU LabsDesigning Proactive Student Support: What Learners Want from AIWhat happens when students don’t get the help they need, despite institutions offering robust support services? In this episode of Inside the Learning Experience, WGU Labs researchers unpack what they’re learning from students as they design Stu, an AI-powered student support tool built to proactively connect learners with the right resources at the right time.Betheny Gross is joined by senior research scientists Youngki Hong and Stephanie Reeves to explore why student support services are underutilized, how barriers like belonging, stigma, and awareness shape help-seeking behaviors, and where AI can and can’t step in. Drawin...
2026-01-0825 min
Inside the Learning Experience with WGU LabsInside an AI Mentor: Powering Personalized Student Support with DataWhat does it take to build an AI mentor—and what data should power it?In this episode of Inside the Learning Experience, WGU Labs explores how AI can support students by scaling mentoring, personalizing guidance, and connecting learners to the right resources at the right time.
2025-12-1819 minWGU Alumni PodcastFrom Digging Ditches to Driving Infrastructure: Distinguished Graduate Brian Mueller’s JourneyChicago public servant Brian Mueller went from digging water lines to leading the team that keeps the city running—and he did it while earning two WGU degrees late at night after his kids went to bed. He shares how a career-altering injury pushed him toward education, how competency-based learning fit a union schedule, and how real-world field experience became the backbone of his leadership style.Brian’s journey is proof that late-career pivots are possible: 50% higher pay, greater impact, and sons who watched him cross the stage twice. If you’re thinking about your own “not too late...
2025-12-1524 minWGU Alumni PodcastInstability to Impact: Michelle Mills’ Work for Military FamiliesMichelle Mills joins us to share how she finished her WGU degree while living in an RV during deployments—and how that experience fueled her mission to fix underemployment for military spouses and veterans. She talks about building a firm that uses location-agnostic, role-based compensation, tripling pay for military-connected talent, and how returning to school helped her rebuild confidence, identity, and direction.
2025-12-0119 min
Inside the Learning Experience with WGU LabsAI, Student Support & BelongingIn this episode of Inside the Learning Experience, host Betheny Gross, director of research, and research coordinator Susie Chen explore how WGU Labs is reimagining student support through proactive, data-informed technology. STU is a first-of-its-kind student-facing AI assistant built to identify when students might be struggling and reach out before challenges escalate. From connecting learners to academic coaching and mental health resources to helping normalize help-seeking behaviors, STU is designed to make belonging structural, not accidental.Listen in as we discuss how technology, empathy, and design can come together to create more equitable support systems that meet...
2025-11-2025 minWGU Alumni PodcastFrom Graduation to Growth: How WGU Supports Alumni for LifeWGU Senior Director of Alumni Engagement Robert Sullivan joins the alumni podcast to explore what happens after graduation—how a WGU degree becomes real momentum through lifelong career support, community, and connection. He walks us through the services alumni can tap into at any stage, from resume reviews and interview prep to region-based events and local networks that help graduates stay relevant in a changing job market.Robert also pulls back the curtain on WGU’s AI-powered Ask-a-Grad tool, which gives learners and alumni fast, practical insights from people who’ve walked the same path. He shares why co...
2025-11-1721 minWGU Alumni PodcastFrom Combat to Cabinet — How Nevada’s CIO, Tim Galluzi, is Leading with PurposeNevada Chief Information Officer and Marine Corps veteran Tim Galluzi joins us to talk about his journey from combat tours to the cabinet table—and how a WGU MBA in IT Management helped him turn technology into a force for public good. He shares what it took to elevate IT to a cabinet-level department in Nevada, why that move matters for cybersecurity and collaboration, and how he’s building a culture where innovation actually sticks.Tim also opens up about returning to school later in life, tackling imposter syndrome, and learning to break big modernization proj...
2025-11-0712 min
Inside the Learning Experience with WGU LabsBuilding Belonging Through Peer SupportMental health challenges are reshaping the student experience, but traditional counseling can’t reach everyone. In this episode of Inside the Learning Experience podcast, we discuss the findings in Beyond Counseling: Unlocking Student Belonging through Peer Connection, one of our latest reports, which provides an overview of the pilot with WGU and Flourish Labs that tested professional peer support as a scalable complement to clinical services.Learn how peer supporters with shared lived experiences helped students build confidence, focus, and a stronger sense of belonging, and what higher ed leaders need to know about implementing these models ef...
2025-11-0719 minWGU Alumni PodcastFrom Donkeys to Data: Distinguished Graduate Ashley Emsweller Hungate’s JourneyOn the next episode of the WGU Alumni podcast, Ashley Emsweller Hungate —public servant, farm mom of four, and WGU alum—shares her journey of turning nonstop motion into focused momentum. From mini donkeys braying during proctored exams to leading culture and talent at Indiana’s Management Performance Hub, Ashley shows how purpose and practicality can thrive together.She shares how earning an MBA amid family and farm life built confidence, opened new career lanes, and helped her turn data into public good. We also trace the roots of Indiana’s Statehouse Market, a farmers market t...
2025-10-2815 min
Inside the Learning Experience with WGU LabsBelonging Beyond the Classroom: Building Connection in Online LearningIn this episode of Inside the Learning Experience, host Omid Fotuhi, the former Director of Learning Innovation at WGU Labs, sits down with Katy Kappler, Co-founder and CEO of InScribe, to explore how digital communities are transforming online education.Katy shares her journey from the early days of eCollege to founding InScribe, a platform designed to foster connection, belonging, and social capital among nontraditional and online learners. Together, they discuss why a sense of belonging is critical for student success, how AI can support (without replacing) human connection, and why the future of online education depends on...
2025-10-2338 min
Inside the Learning Experience with WGU LabsStudent Perceptions of AI in EducationThis episode highlights students' perceptions, usage, and expectations regarding AI in higher education, particularly within online learning environments. Data from WGU Labs’ survey of over 4600 students suggests that respondents are largely optimistic about AI's potential for personalized learning, however, significant gender disparities in AI confidence and usage exist. The findings underscore the critical need for expanded AI literacy, ethical implementation, and student-centered design of AI tools in education. Access the published report here.Inside the Learning Experience explores the future of education through conversations with experts in learning design, technology, and academic research, diving into the evolution of...
2025-10-0917 min
Inside the Learning Experience with WGU LabsInstruction Support: When and What AI can EnhanceHow can artificial intelligence transform the way we teach and learn? In this episode of Inside the Learning Experience, host Omid Fotuhi, Director of Learning Innovation at WGU Labs, sits down with Lita Simanga-Hooper, a seasoned educator and instructional design expert at Labs, to explore the fast-changing role of instruction in a world transformed by artificial intelligence. 👉 Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more insights on the future of education.
2025-09-2535 min
Inside the Learning Experience with WGU LabsLiving in the Tension: Balancing AI & Human-Centered LearningWhat does it mean to “live in the tension” of AI and education? In this episode, host Omid Fotuhi speaks with Tadd Farmer, Senior Learning Experience Designer at WGU Labs, to explore the tensions and opportunities at the intersection of learning design and artificial intelligence.
2025-09-1125 min
Inside the Learning Experience with WGU LabsRethinking Assessment with AI and Personalized LearningOmid Fotuhi and Katrina Wehr Gould, lead learning experience designer at WGU Labs, explore how AI is transforming assessment from a one-time judgment into a personalized, ongoing learning journey. They discuss the potential for technology to capture authentic growth, support intrinsic motivation, and create a more inclusive, empowering educational experience. Inside the Learning Experience features conversations with experts in learning design, technology, and academic research—unpacking the future of education, student challenges, and how innovation can drive more effective and equitable learning environments.
2025-07-2433 min
Inside the Learning Experience with WGU LabsMicrocredentials, Frontline Skills & Real-World ImpactA new microcredential from WGU Academy and WGU Labs is helping adult learners build practical leadership skills for frontline roles in retail, hospitality, and food service—bridging the gap between education and employment with research-driven, scenario-based design.Inside the Learning Experience explores the future of education through conversations with experts in learning design, technology, and academic research, diving into the evolution of learning, the challenges students face, and how we can create more effective, equitable, and impactful educational experiences.
2025-06-2726 min
Inside the Learning Experience with WGU LabsStudent Loan Debt Crisis: Borrower Impact and SolutionsNew research from WGU Labs and SAVI sheds light on who is struggling most as student loan payments resume. This episode explores what the data reveals about repayment challenges, persistent disparities, and the borrowers left behind.Inside the Learning Experience explores the future of education through conversations with experts in learning design, technology, and academic research, diving into the evolution of learning, the challenges students face, and how we can create more effective, equitable, and impactful educational experiences.
2025-06-0512 minWGU Alumni PodcastCreating Tech with Purpose: Distinguished Graduate Destiny Hunter's JourneyStaff Sergeant Destiny Hunter of the U.S. Army Reserves shares her journey as a WGU Distinguished Graduate and founder of Kuinua Tech, a company creating innovative technology solutions with military efficiency while supporting veterans and underserved populations.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How Destiny completed her WGU master’s program while actively serving in the militaryThe origin story behind Kuinua Tech and its mission to uplift overlooked communitiesWhy she believes ethical AI must be driven by diverse teams and human accountability
2025-05-1618 min
Inside the Learning Experience with WGU LabsNon-Completers' Needs: Insights for Higher EducationIn this episode of Inside the Learning Experience, WGU Labs delves into the challenges faced by students who leave college without completing their degrees. Through expert insights and data-driven analysis, the discussion sheds light on the systemic barriers and personal circumstances that contribute to non-completion. The episode also explores strategies that institutions can implement to better support these students, aiming to foster a more inclusive and effective higher education system.Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of how higher education can evolve to meet the needs of all learners, ensuring that more students have the opportunity...
2025-05-1512 min
Inside the Learning Experience with WGU LabsPersonalizing Education with AI That Understands LearningFrom WGU Labs, Research Director Dr. Bethany Gross and Learning Experience Designer Christine McDonough explore what it really takes to build AI tutors that go beyond question-and-answer exchanges. They discuss how learning science, adaptive instruction, and multi-agent systems are transforming the way students engage with content—and how AI can create more personalized, dynamic, and scalable learning experiences rooted in real mastery.Inside the Learning Experience explores the future of education through conversations with experts in learning design, technology, and academic research, diving into the evolution of learning, the challenges students face, and how we can create mo...
2025-05-0117 minWGU Alumni PodcastFrom ER Leader to Florida ENA President: Distinguished Graduate Christie Jandora's JourneyChristie Jandora, a 2024 Distinguished Graduate at WGU, is the Director of Emergency Trauma Services at Ascension, overseeing 500 associates across five Florida counties. She joins the WGU Alumni podcast to share her journey that has been marked by resilience, passion, and purpose. On the latest episode, learn how Christie:Plans to make an impact as the President-Elect of the Florida Emergency Nurses Association Leads multiple ERs, including a Level 1 trauma center and freestanding emergency departments Pursued nursing after losing both parents during her first semester of college Rose through nursing ranks—from LPN to master’s degree—while raisi...
2025-04-1718 min
Inside the Learning Experience with WGU LabsEducational Assessments & AIFrom WGU Labs, Research Director Dr. Betheny Gross and Lead Learning Experience Designer Lesley Reilly, discuss the impact of AI on educational assessments and how it’s shaping the future of teaching by creating interactive scenarios that allow students to practice skills in a safe, low-risk environment.Inside the Learning Experience explores the future of education through conversations with experts in learning design, technology, and academic research, diving into the evolution of learning, the challenges students face, and how we can create more effective, equitable, and impactful educational experiences.
2025-04-1732 minWGU Alumni PodcastLearning Together: How a Husband-Wife Team Balanced Family and Careers While Earning Degrees at WGUAnna and Chris Decker share their inspiring journey of completing WGU degrees together while raising two small children and working full-time jobs. Their competitive spirit, teamwork approach, and unwavering support for each other enabled them to achieve academic success despite numerous challenges.On this episode you’ll learn how the Deckers:• Balanced parenting duties while taking turns studying and sitting for exams• Used late nights and time between infant duties to complete coursework• Leveraged employer benefits to make education financially feasible• Applied newly gained knowledge immediately to their professional roles that led to career...
2025-03-1436 minWGU Alumni PodcastBuilding Bridges and Legacies: WGU Distinguished Graduate Juan Longoria's impact3-time WGU graduate Juan Longoria shares his inspiring journey of education and mentorship, illustrating that it’s never too late to pursue one's dreams. His dedication to helping others through his nonprofit, REVJLO Charities, and the new Lo Nuestro Collective embodies the spirit of lifelong learning and community upliftment.On this episode you'll hear about: • Juan’s educational achievements and commitment to WGU • The vital role of mentorship in career advancement • Balancing personal life and professional ambitions • The importance of lifelong learning and community support • That it’s never too late to pursue your dreams
2025-02-2719 minWGU Alumni PodcastOvercoming Fear and Embracing Opportunity: Kristian Sevison's JourneyKristian Sevison’s journey reveals how pursuing education later in life can lead to personal growth and newfound opportunities. He shares his motivation for returning to school, overcoming personal fears, and the invaluable lessons he’s learned along the way.• Unpacking the theme of it's never too late • Kris's motivation for returning to school• Overcoming self-doubt and personal fears • Discovering the power of WGU's competency-based education • Importance of military experience in shaping his journey • The desire to mentor others • Importance of lifelong learning and education Join us as we explore Kris’s inspiring p...
2025-02-2019 min
VET S.O.S. Presents Learning LifelineEmpowering Military Veterans in Higher Education: Daniel Avegalio on WGU's Competency-Based ModelIn this impactful episode of the VERS podcast, we feature Daniel
Avegalio, a Marine Corps veteran and trailblazer in higher education, as
he shares his journey from military service to community college
administration and his current role at Western Governors University
(WGU). With 16 years of experience advocating for military-affiliated
students, Daniel’s insights are both inspiring and practical.Daniel’s Story: From the Corps to Higher Ed LeadershipAfter
serving in the Marine Corps from 2004 to 2010 and completing three
deployments to Iraq, Daniel faced the challenges of transitioning to
civilian life. His determination led him to a stud...
2025-01-1015 minWGU Alumni PodcastFrom teenage mom to chief nursing officer: Distinguished Graduate Shanell Murphy’s JourneyFrom teenage mom to chief nursing officer, first-generation college graduate Shanell Murphy shares her inspiring story of resilience and success and how her commitment to nursing education has paved the way. On this podcast, we explore her growth from her early days in Charleston, South Carolina, to her healthcare leadership chapters in Cleveland, Ohio, including her involvement with the American Nursing Association. Shanell has earned three degrees from WGU – her bachelor’s of science in nursing, her master’s in business administration with concentration in healthcare management, and most recently her master’s in nursing leadership...
2024-12-1228 minWGU Alumni PodcastEmbracing and Thriving Through Change: Distinguished Graduate Skye Gilham's JourneyDiscover the transformative power of education through the story of Skye Gilham, a WGU distinguished graduate who has dedicated herself to empowering her Blackfeet Native American community in Montana. As Skye reveals her journey from academia to serving her community at Blackfeet Community College and beyond, she highlights the breathtaking beauty and challenges of life in Northwest Montana. Her story is a testament to the impact of education, showcasing how integrating online learning and technology can uplift communities.
2024-11-2219 minWGU Alumni PodcastMaking a difference and standing firm: Distinguished Graduate and IT Leader Linzie Starr III's JourneyWhat if you could redefine success on your terms, no matter where you start from? Join us on the latest episode of the WGU Alumni Podcast as Linzie Starr III, an IT professional and recent WGU distinguished graduate honoree, who climbed the ranks without formal education, shares his inspiring journey and professional advice. From an accidental foray into the tech world to becoming the Director of Program Management at the Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services, Linzie's story is a testament to resilience and the power of forging your own path. His experience in...
2024-11-0450 minWGU Alumni PodcastFrom Military Service to Community Leadership: Distinguished Graduate Roxanne Thalman's journeyWhat does it mean to truly embrace the mantra "Never Too Late"? Hear the inspiring journey of Roxanne Thalman, a change maker, US Air Force veteran, former elected official, and proud WGU alumna. A standout WGU distinguished graduate, Roxanne leads in the workforce as well as within the community, where she's the director and long time volunteer of the largest 4th of July Parade in Texas. On this episode of the WGU Alumni Podcast, you'll learn about her transformative work in change management and community service as well as her embodying the essence of pursuing dre...
2024-10-2334 minWGU Alumni PodcastEmpowerment Through Experience: WGU Distinguished Graduate Adriana Richard’s Path to AdvocacyWhat happens when a determined educator channels her passion into transformative advocacy? Meet Adriana Richard, a distinguished graduate from WGU, who has turned her life experiences into a force for change. On this episode of the WGU Alumni podcast, we explore Adriana's journey from shifting to an online education during the pandemic to founding a national organization, T1D to the Third, which supports children with Type 1 Diabetes. Her involvement with Girls on the Run showcases her dedication to mentoring young girls, encouraging them to believe in themselves and their resilience.
2024-10-1824 minWGU Alumni PodcastFrom Educator to Ed Tech Entrepreneur: WGU Distinguished Graduate Jessica Shelley’s JourneyJessica Shelley, a soon to be four-time WGU graduate, rejoins the WGU Alumni Podcast following the recognition of being named a 2024 WGU Distinguished Graduate. The CEO and co-founder of Dailies, shares her journey as a passionate educator to a thriving entrepreneur. Her story is proof that it's never too late to chase your dreams.We explore the motivations and challenges Jessica faced while pursuing multiple master's degrees, balancing family responsibilities, and transitioning from teaching to entrepreneurship.
2024-10-0223 minWGU Alumni PodcastFrom Pharmacist to Cybersecurity Leader: Distinguished Graduate Dr. Brady McNulty's WGU journeyImagine facing immense pressure in your job during a global pandemic and deciding it's time to make a bold career change. That's exactly what Dr. Brady McNulty did, transitioning from pharmacy to cybersecurity. In this episode of the WGU Alumni Podcast, we explore Brady's inspiring story of resilience and reinvention. Hear how his interest in hacking culture and his Navy background fueled his passion for a new career, all while receiving unwavering support from his wife.This episode highlights Brady's personal growth proving that it's never too late to chase your dreams.
2024-09-2725 minWGU Alumni PodcastIntroducing new season "It's Never Too Late"On this new season of the WGU Alumni Podcast, we’re sharing the inspiring stories of our distinguished graduates who went back to school to pursue a degree and better their lives. Over the next few months, you’ll hear graduates who took control of their future and decided it’s “never too late”.We’re so excited for you to meet them. We have stories of pharmacists who became cybersecurity experts, teachers in Title 1 schools making a difference, entrepreneurs chasing their dreams, and so many graduates having a huge impact in their communities, and much much mo...
2024-09-1801 minWGU Alumni PodcastHow education and inclusivity champion empowers others (Cole Frandsen-Smith)On this episode of the WGU Alumni Podcast, learn how Cole Frandsen-Smith, a 2023 WGU graduate in Human Resource Management, has become a strong champion for education, inclusivity, and the power of community.Also, learn how Cole's life, and that of his family's, has been enriched by the example of his mother and how her referring Cole to WGU has had a ripple effect upon many others.
2024-06-2728 min