Welcome to UMGC’s &#34;Unstoppable Stories,&#34; a podcast that showcases extraordinary journeys of individuals who turned their dreams into reality. Join hosts Lauren Cardillo and Nathan James as they sit down with inspiring people who have broken barriers, defied expectations, and achieved remarkable success in their fields.In each episode, Lauren and Nathan dive deep into the real, unvarnished stories behind their guests&#39; accomplishments. From military veterans turned entrepreneurs to working parents who became industry leaders, these inspiring individuals share the obstacles they overcame and the pivotal moments that shaped their paths to success. They offer compelling insights for anyone looking to transform their own life and achieve their dreams.&#34;Unstoppable Stories&#34; goes beyond the highlight reel to explore the grit, determination, and resilience it takes to achieve your goals. Whether you&#39;re a student, career changer, or simply someone seeking inspiration, these powerful narratives prove that with dedication and perseverance, there&#39;s no limit to what you can achieve.

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<h2>Episode Description:</h2> In this bonus episode of Unstoppable Stories, UMGC&#39;s Cathy Francois, Director of Career Services, moderates a conversation on the benefits of skills-based education with Dr. Patti Phillips, CEO of the ROI Institute and adjunct faculty for UMGC&#39;s MBA program, and Chava Roberts (BSc, MHS), a clinical trial manager and UMGC MBA student with eight years of experience running complex oncology and translational research trials.Dr. Phillips draws on decades of global consulting work across nearly 70 countries to explain how skills-based education differs from traditional, test-driven learning, and why closing the capability gap matters more than ever as organizations face rapid technological change. She walks through how business simulations, case studies, peer review, and community-partnered projects give students real opportunities to practice, not just memorize, the skills employers are looking for.Chava shares her own path from working across complex, cross-functional clinical trial teams to pursuing an MBA at UMGC to learn the &#34;unspoken language&#34; of leadership and decision-making. She reflects on how the program&#39;s emphasis on communication, collaboration, and problem-solving has translated directly into new confidence and responsibility in her career, and offers advice for anyone weighing a graduate program that promises real-world skills over theory alone.Don&#39;t forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments!To learn more about UMGC, visit <a href="https://www.umgc.edu/" rel="nofollow">UMGC.edu</a>Host: Lauren CardilloModerator: Cathy Francois, Director of Career Services, UMGCGuests: Dr. Patti Phillips, CEO, The ROI Institute; Chava Roberts, (BSc, MHS) Clinical Trial Manager, UMGC MBA Student<h2>Time Stamps &amp; Show Notes:</h2> 00:00 Welcome To The Bonus Episode 00:35 Introducing Dr. Patti Phillips And Chava Roberts 02:02 The Global Reach Of The ROI Institute 05:05 Chava&#39;s Path From The Bahamas To UMGC 06:23 Defining Skills-Based Education 09:02 Choosing An MBA To Learn Leadership&#39;s &#34;Unspoken Language&#34; 13:22 Why Performance Beats The Test Score 17:45 Measuring Return On Investment In Education 20:42 Communicating Across Complex Teams 24:10 What Surprised Chava About The MBA Experience 26:28 Measuring Success In Skills-Based Learning30:31 Turning Practical Skills Into Leadership Confidence34:30 Tapping Into UMGC&#39;s Alumni Mentor Network35:32 Skills Business Leaders Will Need Next40:02 Advice For Choosing A Skills-Focused Program44:03 The Refrigerator Analogy45:34 Closing Thoughts

Unstoppable Stories - Bonus Episode: Beyond the Degree: Why Skills-Based Education Wins

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Host Lauren Cardillo sits down with Joshua Nieubuurt, an assistant professor at UMGC in Asia whose path to the &#34;ivory tower&#34; was anything but direct. Josh shares how he pivoted from a budding career as a general contractor in booming Nevada to teaching English in South Korea and Japan after the 2008 housing crisis. He recounts the &#34;ground-shaking&#34; realization that his American upbringing was only one small piece of the human experience and how that perspective now fuels his work with Japanese bridge students and the military community. Josh dives into the fascinating intersection of digital rhetoric, AI, and memes, explaining how &#34;cultural glue&#34; can connect people even across language barriers. From hilariously awkward sushi dinners to witnessing the transformative pride of a graduating student, Josh’s story is a masterclass in the power of reinvention. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments! Host: Lauren CardilloGuest: Joshua Nieubuurt, Assistant Professor, UMGC in Asia  Time Stamps &amp; Show Notes:00:00 The Hammer Analogy00:22 From Contractor to Professor02:17 The Housing Crisis Pivot03:53 Landing in South Korea05:19 Cultural Ground Shaking07:38 Teaching in Japan09:43 Rearview Mirror Lessons12:45 Joining UMGC Asia14:54 Overcoming Language Anxiety16:14 The Sushi Dinner Mistake18:39 Writing as Magic21:45 Memes as Cultural Glue24:02 Bridging Cultural Touches27:22 AI: Tools vs. Voice32:53 Military Community Dynamic36:00 Finding the Real Dream

Unstoppable Stories S. 2 Ep. 20: Building Global Bridges: From Construction to the Classroom

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In this bonus episode of Unstoppable Stories, host Nathan James brings together UMGC faculty members Dr. Kate Goldberg and Mary Crowley-Farrell for a dynamic, forward-thinking dialogue on artificial intelligence in higher education. Together, they look past the baseline tech and examine the core issues of equity, digital awareness, and why AI literacy must go deeper than learning how to input prompts.Mary shares crucial insights from the communications and journalism landscape, explaining how machine learning impacts human collaboration, the vital necessity of interrogating our tools, and how AI can sometimes have a &#34;blanketing effect&#34; on natural human curiosity. Dr. Goldberg addresses the rapidly evolving data science field, arguing against the potential &#34;extinction of the expert&#34; and highlighting why domain expertise is more valuable than ever to identify bias, inaccuracies, and ethical gaps in automated outputs. From restructuring assignments around real-time problem-solving to balancing AI assistance with peer review, this conversation provides a necessary roadmap for educators, students, and workforce professionals striving to remain authentic and adaptable in a machine-assisted world.Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments!To learn more about UMGC, visit: <a href="http://umgc.edu" rel="nofollow">UMGC.edu/</a> Host: Nathan James Guests: Dr. Kate Goldberg, UMGC Professor of AI &amp; Data Analytics Mary Crowley-Farrell, UMGC Professor of Communications and Journalist <h2>Time Stamps:</h2>00:00 Welcome to the Bonus Episode00:28 AI’s Classroom Challenges01:11 Acclimating Students to Tech02:23 AI Literacy vs. Tool Access03:38 Defining Modern AI Literacy04:15 The Vital Human Expert05:30 Evaluating Visual Content and Reality06:21 Comparing Platforms in the Classroom07:32 Responsibility, Ethics, and Bias08:56 Knowing Appropriate Use Cases10:42 The Loss of Human Collaboration11:55 Peer Review and Editing Workflows14:13 Focusing on Process Over Product15:20 Data Analysis as Storytelling17:55 Grounding Instruction in Reality20:43 Intellectual Property and Watermarks22:59 The Complicated Math Debate25:42 Defining Authentic Learning28:59 Redesigning Higher Education Systems30:27 Arguing for the Sages32:14 Faculty Identity Under Pressure34:52 Curiosity and the Blanket Effect37:21 Audience Centricity in Media38:14 Gumption to Question Data44:18 AI as a Brainstorming Aid47:29 Student Skepticism and Options51:05 Content Creators and Workforce Trends53:52 Individual Attention and Coaching

Unstoppable Stories - Bonus Episode Beyond the Prompt: Building True AI Literacy

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Host Nathan James sits down with Jake Messier, a former Marine Corps combat correspondent, PR executive, and public affairs specialist whose career has transitioned into urgent healthcare advocacy. Jake opens up about his non-linear journey, which began with dropping out of college after his junior year to find direction in the military. Stationed at Yokota Air Base in Tokyo as a broadcast journalist, Jake fulfilled a promise to his father by earning his sociology degree abroad through the UMGC Asian Division while capturing the diverse lives of service members across 43 countries. Following his military service, Jake navigated intense corporate environments, working as a CBS news assignment editor during 9/11 before founding the largest non-profit marketing agency in New England, an achievement that landed him in Forbes as a prominent &#34;olderpreneur&#34;. However, his path took a drastic turn at age 52 when a routinely dismissed lump under his arm led to a diagnosis of stage 4 metastatic male breast cancer. Now managing an incurable illness, Jake has mobilized his deep marketing expertise to combat toxic masculinity and emasculation within healthcare, building a massive digital community as &#34;The Guy with Stage 4&#34;. Tune in to hear how Jake became the first male breast cancer patient appointed to a Susan G. Komen steering committee and why sharing our most vulnerable chapters is the ultimate catalyst for saving lives. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments! Host: Nathan JamesGuest: Jake Messier, Marine Veteran, Stage 4 Breast Cancer Survivor, UMGC Alumnus <h2>Time Stamps:</h2><ul><li>00:00 Deodorant Checks and Dismissed Symptoms</li><li>00:43 Introducing Jake Messier</li><li>01:21 Dropping Out of Traditional College</li><li>02:26 A Heritage of Seafaring Veterans</li><li>03:47 Discovering Public Affairs Job 4341</li><li>04:53 Good Morning Vietnam in Tokyo</li><li>05:39 Fulfilling Two Promises to Dad</li><li>06:27 Traveling Across 43 Global Countries</li><li>08:05 Capturing Every Marine Corps Specialty</li><li>10:04 The UMGC Asian Division Experience</li><li>11:43 Applying Sociology to Marketing Demographics</li><li>12:55 Desk Editing at CBS Affiliate WBZ</li><li>13:20 Reporting from the Center of 9/11</li><li>14:05 Navigating Historic New England News Crises</li><li>15:49 Finding Motivation in Loved Programs</li><li>18:12 Founding a Niche Marketing Agency</li><li>19:50 Embracing Humanitarian Uniform Ribbons</li><li>21:03 Scaling the Business for Social Change</li><li>22:20 Facing Stage Four Metastatic Diagnosis</li><li>24:37 Male Breast Cancer Mortality Rates</li><li>26:07 Finding the Hidden Axillary Lump</li><li>27:15 Transitioning to the Mammography Ward</li><li>27:57 Fast and Slow Realities Aloud</li><li>28:56 Psychological Trauma of Medical Emasculation</li><li>30:11 The Successful Strategy of Pink Marketing</li><li>31:07 Toxic Masculinity in Healthcare Settings</li><li>31:49 Mastectomy Surgeries and Inclusive Devices</li><li>33:16 Gender Inequalities in Patient Literature</li><li>34:31 Launching the Guy with Stage 4</li><li>36:08 Taking the Stairs for Chemo</li><li>38:25 Disproportionate Funding for Incurable Cases</li><li>39:08 Rare Disease Structural Disparities</li><li>41:15 Seated at Susan G. Komen Board</li><li>43:27 Empowering Men to Speak Bravely</li></ul>

Unstoppable Stories S. 2 Ep. 19: Words as Currency: The Marine, the Marketer, & Metastatic Advocate

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Host Lauren Cardillo sits down with Ashley Esposito, a UMGC graduate, community organizer, and the first mother ever elected to the Baltimore City Board of School Commissioners. Ashley opens up about her unconventional path through an education system that nearly left her behind. Diagnosed with dyslexia and ADHD at age 35, she reflects on falling &#34;off the cliff&#34; in third grade, navigating the foster care system, and the resilience it took to earn a degree after years of academic probation. Now a data analyst and executive director of Baltimore Unity Hall, Ashley shares how her lived experiences allow her to &#34;poke holes&#34; in outdated policies and advocate for students on the margins. From door-knocking with a toddler in a backpack to passing landmark foster care legislation, Ashley’s story proves that education can truly be an equalizer when those it once failed are given a seat at the table. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments!Host: Lauren Cardillo Guest: Ashley Esposito, Executive Director of Baltimore Unity Hall, UMGC Alumna Time Stamps:00:00 Early Intervention and Diagnosis01:13 Persistent Through the Gaps03:12 Falling Through the Cracks05:12 Life Hard for a Reason06:51 Foster Care and Stability09:10 Running for School Board11:22 Campaigning with a Toddler14:28 Overcoming Campaign Insecurity18:09 Advocating from the Margins22:16 Finding the Right Path25:58 Systems Thinking and Data31:08 Leading Baltimore Unity Hall33:14 Harnessing ADHD Superpowers35:16 Finding a Voice38:55 Reimagining Community Spaces44:42 Persistence in Mentorship

Unstoppable Stories S. 2 Ep. 18: The Equalizer: Representation and Resilience in Leadership with Ashley Esposito

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Join Lauren Cardillo on Unstoppable Stories as she sits down with Giovanna &#34;Gia&#34; Williams, a two-time UMGC master’s graduate - earning her MBA and MS in Project Management - whose life journey is a masterclass in resilience and reinvention. In this episode, Gia shares her incredible story of growing up in Panama amidst systemic unfairness, moving to Brooklyn at age ten, and navigating an abusive household. She reveals how she broke generational cycles by using education as her ultimate strategy for stability, eventually pivoting from a dream in criminal justice to a profound career in healthcare management after the tragic passing of her mother. Today, Gia leads a massive federal web modernization program for the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ). You’ll hear her powerful insights on the importance of self-awareness in leadership, why empathetic leadership always beats top-down management, and how therapy helped her uncover her blind spots. If you’re looking to turn your toughest circumstances into your greatest strengths, this episode will show you what it truly means to be unstoppable.Be sure to like, subscribe, and leave a comment! Learn more about the UMGC community at umgc.edu Time Stamps:00:00 Intro01:11 Growing Up in Panama05:56 Moving to the US08:07 Overcoming Abusive Environments10:00 Breaking the Cycle11:15 Education as a Strategy13:12 Reconnecting With Mom15:58 Shifting to Healthcare22:47 Pursuing Two Master&#39;s27:15 Leading with Empathy35:08 The Power of Mentoring38:01 Moving to Baltimore40:30 Navigating Complex Situations43:56 Self-Awareness in Therapy47:18 Closing

Unstoppable Stories S. 2 Ep. 17: Building Stability Through Education with Giovanna Williams

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In this bonus episode of Unstoppable Stories, UMGC President Dr. Gregory Fowler sits down with Dr. Angie Besendorfer Martin, UMGC&#39;s Chief Learner Experience &amp; Success Officer, to talk about the new role Dr. Fowler created to unite the university&#39;s approach to the entire student journey. Angie reflects on what drew her to the position, from Dr. Fowler&#39;s explicit vision for change to her own experience leading through crisis as an administrator in Joplin, Missouri, following the historic 2011 tornado.The conversation explores what it really means to build a student-centered institution: rethinking degrees around demonstrated skills rather than seat time, using AI to enhance rather than replace the human elements of teaching, and creating a consistent UMGC experience for learners everywhere from military bases overseas to fully online classrooms. Dr. Fowler and Angie also discuss UMGC&#39;s recent trip to visit learners and staff across Asia, the new Digital Student Experience team charting individual learner journeys, and why practitioner faculty with real-world experience are central to closing the gap between a degree and a job.In closing, they offer a vision for the next five years, explain why UMGC maintains rigorous standards alongside its open-enrollment policy, and reflect on how a nearly 80-year legacy of serving students in remote military outposts and war zones continues to define the university&#39;s mission today.  Don&#39;t forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments!To learn more about UMGC, visit UMGC.edu Time Stamps:00:00 Welcome To The Bonus Episode00:31 Creating A New Kind Of Role01:47 What Student Centricity Really Means02:36 Being Intentional About Disruption03:00 Leading Through The Joplin Tornado04:55 A Fulbright In Brussels And The Bologna Process05:40 Rethinking Skills And Competencies07:15 Making The Case For Skills-Based Hiring08:07 Scaffolding Skills From K-12 Through Career09:43 Credentialing Learning That Happens Outside The Classroom11:03 A Plug-And-Play Model For Degrees12:10 Rebuilding The Team Around The Strategic Plan14:24 Broadening UMGC&#39;s Global Perspective17:05 Serving 175+ Locations In 24+ Countries18:30 Charting The Learner Journey21:08 Learning From Disruption In Other Industries22:52 Where AI Fits Into The Future Of Education26:16 AI As Augmented, Not Artificial, Intelligence27:50 Rethinking Assessment And Skill Signals31:20 Holding UMGC Accountable For Outcomes32:38 Moving From Inputs To Outputs34:07 Why Practitioner Faculty Matter35:00 Building A Skills-Based Culture Internally39:01 Defining What Success Looks Like In Five Years42:02 UMGC&#39;s 80-Year Mission And Closing Thoughts

Unstoppable Stories - Bonus Episode: Reimagining Higher Education and the Learner Experience

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Host Nathan James sits down with Air Force veteran and UMGC alumnus Matthew Ruchie to trace his remarkable path from academic probation to becoming a logistics supervisor for UMGC in Europe. As a first-generation college student, Matthew initially struggled at a private university, dropping out to enlist in the Air Force where he served as a mental health specialist. He shares how transitioning out of the military triggered a deep depression, leading to a 1.8 GPA and failing a foundational writing class multiple times.  Through the vital support of his wife, a life-changing meeting with a dedicated academic advisor, and leveraging AI for structured planning, Matthew completely reversed his trajectory. Today, he oversees educational operations and complex logistics across forward operating stations in Germany and Poland. Matthew shares powerful insights into removing self-imposed barriers, treating mental health like proactive car maintenance, and why a fifth attempt can change your entire life. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments! Time Stamps:00:00 Breaking Self-Imposed Barriers00:39 Introducing Matthew Ruchie01:23 Mission of UMGC Europe03:35 First-Generation College Obstacles05:03 Enlisting for Higher Purpose07:39 Mental Health Specialist Role09:06 Preventing Personal Breakdowns13:48 The Academic Downward Spiral15:16 Finding the Way Out16:36 Advisor Intervention in Europe19:26 Building Confidence through Skills22:02 From Sweeping Floors to Supervisor22:38 Coordinating Logistics in Poland24:43 Agility and Pivoting Under Pressure26:48 Running Classes in Base Chapels32:28 Mastering VA Benefit Policies37:12 Leveraging AI for Study Blocks42:28 Mindset Shift for Failing Students

Unstoppable Stories S. 2 Ep. 16: Failing Forward: How Trial & Error Built an Unstoppable Future

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Host Lauren Cardillo sits down with Joe Arden, who spent 40 years with UMGC as a professor and director. Joe recounts his incredible journey from serving as an Army intelligence officer in Vietnam to accepting a traveling teaching position in 1967 that changed his life forever. Taking a massive pay cut to leave a think tank, Joe found his true calling teaching American military personnel across Asia and Europe. He shares powerful stories of his time in the classroom, including teaching armed soldiers in Vietnam, helping a former Vietnamese faculty member escape as a &#34;boat person,&#34; and receiving a life-changing letter from a student nearly 30 years later. Reflecting on his transition to administration and his decision to live in Thailand, Joe proves that doing your best is the key to an unstoppable career.Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments!Host: Lauren Cardillo Guest: Joe Arden, Veteran, Retired UMGC Faculty MemberTime Stamps &amp; Show Notes: 00:00 Do Your Best 01:08 Favorite Career Stops 02:26 A Fortuitous Interview 05:52 The Value of the Experience08:33 Impacting Students&#39; Lives 12:29 Origins of UMGC Asia 17:15 Passion for Travel 19:52 Moving to Europe 21:45 Transition to Administration 28:54 Settling in Thailand 32:17 The Fall of Saigon 36:29 Advice to Younger Self

Unstoppable Stories S. 2 Ep. 15: A Life Overseas: 40 Years of Teaching the Military with Joe Arden

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Host Lauren Cardillo sits down with Jesse Varsalone, a cybersecurity guru, UMGC faculty member, and the coach of UMGC’s award-winning cyber competition team, the Shells. Jesse shares his 32-year teaching journey, explaining how he transitioned from a high school math teacher to the fast-paced world of cybersecurity. He breaks down the biggest misconceptions about the field, emphasizing that it requires curiosity rather than advanced math, and boasts incredibly low barriers to entry. Jesse also dives into the diverse makeup of his championship team—which includes everyone from bartenders to military personnel—and how their online, flexible model helped them conquer major professional competitions and reach the Final Four in &#34;Hack the Madness&#34;. Whether you are a career changer or a tech hobbyist, Jesse proves that anyone with passion can go pro in cybersecurity.Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments!To learn more about UMGC, visit: UMGC.edu/Unstoppable. Host: Lauren Cardillo Guest: Jesse Varsalone, Associate Professor &amp; Cyber Team Coach Time Stamps &amp; Show Notes: 00:00 No Barriers to Entry01:03 A 32-Year Teaching Journey04:07 Pivoting to Cybersecurity09:12 Diversity on the Cyber Team11:50 Naming the Shells15:12 Coaching Adult Learners Online22:12 Recruiting Cyber Team Members24:41 Inside a Cyber Competition32:20 Beating Professional Cyber Teams35:34 Reaching the Final Four

Unstoppable Stories S. 2 Ep. 14: Hack the Madness: Building a Worldclass Cyber Team Online

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Host Nathan James sits down with Christina Barlas, a Senior Regional Marketing Specialist and UMGC MBA graduate who turned a life-altering trauma into a story of absolute resilience. At age 16, Christina’s world was shattered by a violent home invasion that left her feeling unsafe and disconnected from her education.  After initially dropping out of school to work in the salon industry, Christina realized that her true potential lay beyond the stylist&#39;s chair. She shares the pivotal moment she rediscovered her childhood love for art and technology, leading her to enroll at UMGC. Balancing multiple jobs with a rigorous academic schedule, she not only earned her bachelor&#39;s degree but went on to complete her MBA with a perfect 4.0 GPA. Today, Christina advocates for &#34;making the most of wherever you go,&#34; using her past experiences as a foundation for leadership, mentorship, and a future dedicated to helping other victims of crime. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments! Time Stamps:00:00 It Is All Worth It01:11 The Sixteen-Year-Old Self02:56 Surviving a Home Invasion04:40 Processing PTSD and Survival07:12 Pivoting from Salon Life10:33 Finding a Fit at UMGC13:19 Falling in Love with Learning15:04 The Hectic Dual Grind16:47 Impact of Micro Internships19:43 Achieving a 4.0 MBA23:11 Climbing the Corporate Ladder27:22 Leading Through Service30:28 Advice for the Lost32:58 What Felt Like the End

Unstoppable Stories S. 2 Ep. 13: The Architecture of Resilience: Reclaiming Life After Trauma

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Host Lauren Cardillo sits down with Kwame Johnson, President &amp; CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Atlanta, an author, and a UMGC graduate. Kwame shares how a wrong turn at age 17 led him to prison, where a year in solitary confinement forced him to figure out his life&#39;s purpose. He recounts the persistence it took to become the first person in the U.S. to take the SATs behind bars, paving the way for his college education. Guided by civil rights leader Bob Woodson, Kwame learned to view his past mistakes not as a stigma, but as his &#34;superpower&#34;. Today, he dedicates his life to being a &#34;defender of potential,&#34; advocating that mentorship is the most effective solution to poverty in America. Kwame emphasizes that anyone can be a mentor by simply incorporating a young person into their existing routines, proving that it truly takes little to be big. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments! Time Stamps: 00:00 Defender of Potential 02:59 Finding A Way Out 04:13 Solitary Confinement Awakening 05:59 SATs Behind Bars 09:51 Meeting Bob Woodson 11:58 Human Antibodies 16:50 Journey to CEO &amp; Challenges22:37 Creating Safe Spaces for Men26:13 Simple Mentorship Moments 29:35 Vision to Solve Poverty

Unstoppable Stories S. 2 Ep. 12: The Defender of Potential: How Mentorship Helps Solve Poverty

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Host Lauren Cardillo sits down with UMGC student and nonprofit leader Sharon Grassi to explore her profound transition from a corporate career to becoming a full-time caregiver for her combat medic son. Sharon opens up about the &#34;mama bear&#34; advocacy required to navigate the VA healthcare maze, the loss of her professional identity, and the pivotal moment a paracord dog leash sparked a new mission. Sharon explains the science behind her nonprofit, Co-Op Survival, revealing how the simple rhythm of weaving leashes provides bilateral brain stimulation that helps veterans and caregivers lower stress and connect. She also discusses her return to education as a Pillars of Strength scholar, proving that even after life-altering setbacks, it is possible to find a new tribe, a new degree, and a renewed sense of self. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments!To learn more about UMGC, visit: UMGC.edu/Unstoppable. Time Stamps:00:00 Intro and The Leash 01:48 Becoming a Caregiver 05:09 The Turning Point 07:40 Navigating The VA Maze 10:59 The Mama Bear Advocate 12:43 Leaving Corporate Life 17:34 The Dog Leash Origin 24:27 The Science of Healing 32:13 A New Academic Path 39:12 Finding Your Tribe

Unstoppable Stories S. 2 Ep. 11: It’s Not About the Leash: Finding Calm Through Community Connection

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Host Nathan James sits down with Marine veteran and UMGC alumnus, Ehsan Jamshidi to trace a journey that begins in Afghanistan and evolves into a life of service, study, and purpose in the United States. Ehsan shares how his mother’s sacrifice and the challenge of learning English shaped his mindset, why the Marine Corps Embassy Security Program became a proving ground, and how discipline, attention to detail, and gratitude guided each decision along the way. He recounts the 2021 Kabul evacuation turning personal when his own family needed a way out, then describes rebuilding after medical retirement, transitioning into a Department of Defense role, and finishing both a bachelor’s and a master’s with top grades. The conversation highlights practical lessons for veterans and adult learners, why it&#39;s important to use every resource, keep your network active, and move forward with steady routines that compound over time. His incredible story of perseverance and his commitment to excellence in the classroom earned him the 2024 UMGC Student Veteran of the Year award.  Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments! To learn more about UMGC, visit: UMGC.edu/Unstoppable. Host: Nathan JamesGuest: Ehsan Jamshidi, Marine veteran and 2024 UMGC Student Veteran of the Year Time Stamps: 00:00 Kabul crisis response01:11 New country start04:24 Mother fuels grit07:23 Choosing purposeful service11:28 Embassy duty momentum14:46 Family rescue mission19:01 Medical setback reset23:28 Defense career pivot27:11 Degrees driving gratitude31:09 Forward focused advice

Unstoppable Stories S. 2 Ep. 10: Boots to Books: Finishing Strong with Ehsan Jamshidi

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Welcome to a special edition of Unstoppable Stories. May is a special time of the year for students – especially those who will earn their degrees and officially graduate. This week, we’re excited to share interviews from several UMGC graduates from around the globe as they tell their stories and offer advice on what made their journeys a success. As with most of our students who manage work, family life, military service, and more on the road to earning their degree, you will love these genuine clips of these graduates from UMGC locations worldwide. From Asia and Europe to stateside, these unstoppable stories will give you insights and inspiration as you pursue your own educational goals. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments! To learn more about UMGC, visit: UMGC.edu/Unstoppable Time Stamps: 00:00 Introduction 00:39 Kiwamu 02:15 Ashley 03:16 Frederick 04:49 Donald 06:01 Abigail 07:29 Scott 08:39 Jackie 10:16 Pamela 11:55 Jasmin 14:04 Daniel 16:07 Nikkia 17:10 Conclusion

Unstoppable Stories S. 2 Ep. 9: Commencement Episode: The Stories Behind the Degrees

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Host Nathan James sits down with UMGC cybersecurity graduate, Tamila Urumbaeva, to trace a move from Uzbekistan to the United States, a seven year stretch apart from her father, and the decision to rebuild in a new language and culture. She explains the hardest early hurdle, communicating with care across cultures, and how asking good questions, listening closely, and adjusting tone in real time became a daily practice.  Tamila shares how she chose cybersecurity, earned an Excellence in Cybersecurity award at community college, transferred to UMGC for the online fit, stacked credentials like CompTIA Security Plus, and balanced four jobs with school through disciplined routines and honest burnout recovery. She also reflects on launching leadership with Women in Cybersecurity, the confidence of conference community, and a vision to secure systems and inspire more women to enter the field.  Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments! To learn more about UMGC, visit: UMGC.edu/Unstoppable. Host: Nathan JamesGuest: Tamila Urumbaeva, Cybersecurity Specialist, UMGC alumnus Time Stamps &amp; Show Notes: (00:00 - 00:50) Cybersecurity Impact(00:50 - 02:59) Delay and move(03:00 - 05:12) Culture shock(05:13 - 08:10) Choosing cyber(08:11 - 10:34) Early wins(10:35 - 13:10) UMGC fit(13:11 - 16:35) Four jobs(16:36 - 19:49) Burnout reset(19:50 - 24:15) WiCyS leadership(24:16 - 27:08) Never give up(27:09 - 30:59) Community and close

Unstoppable Stories S. 2 Ep. 8: Ask, Listen, Adapt: Pathways to Cyber Confidence w/ Tamila Urumbaeva

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Host Nathan James sits down with systems engineer and UMGC alumnus, Ben Thapa to trace the thread from Nepal to night classes, from a first IT role to a multi decade career built on routine, persistence, and family support. Ben explains how early mornings, long commutes, and library nights created momentum, and why staying curious kept doors opening at work and at school. He shares the story behind playing golf in all 50 states and on every continent, including a bucket list swing in Antarctica, and how the real goal was never the scorecard but the friendships and check ins that followed. Along the way he highlights the master’s decision, the campus resources that helped, and a people first mindset that turns busy schedules into lasting community. Listen for lessons on structure, gratitude, and connection that apply far beyond the fairway. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments! To learn more about UMGC, visit: UMGC.edu/Unstoppable. Host: Nathan JamesGuest: Ben Thapa, Systems Engineer, Author, UMGC alumnus Time Stamps &amp; Show Notes: (00:00 - 00:22) People first(00:22 - 00:53) Welcome(00:54 - 03:10) Golf origins(03:11 - 05:04) Work and UMGC(05:05 - 09:12) Daily grind(09:13 - 12:34) Family view(12:35 - 16:08) First IT role(16:09 - 20:32) Master’s decision(20:33 - 24:10) 50 states, 7 continents(24:11 - 29:39) Staying in touch(29:40 - 32:43) Connection over loneliness(32:44 - 33:32) Gratitude and close

Unstoppable Stories S. 2 Ep. 7: Fairways and Friendships, Lessons Beyond the Score with Ben Thapa

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In this episode of Unstoppable Stories, UMGC alumna, Jeannie Lum, joins host Lauren Cardillo to share her story of resilience, compassion, and cultural connection. Born in the Philippines and raised as a military kid, Jeannie’s journey has been defined by movement, adaptability, and heart. When her father decided to stop relocating their family, Jeannie learned the power of staying grounded, keeping connected through collect calls, calling cards, and even pottery, a creative bond she still treasures today.Now living in Oahu, Hawaii with her two autistic daughters, Jeannie balances motherhood, advocacy, and her role as a former Outreach Partnership Specialist at UMGC. She opens up about embracing challenges, finding purpose through community, and learning to let the rhythm of life, like the ocean, carry her forward.Jeannie’s story is a reminder that strength isn’t just about perseverance; it’s about leading with love, embracing culture, and staying rooted no matter where the tide takes you. Be sure to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments for more unstoppable stories!To learn more about UMGC, visit:<a href="http://umgc.edu/Unstoppable" rel="nofollow"> UMGC.edu/Unstoppable</a> Connect with Jeannie on LinkedIn! <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeanniealum/" rel="nofollow">https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeanniealum/</a> Host: Lauren CardilloGuest: Jeannie Lum (Former Outreach Partnership Specialist, UMGC Alumnas) Time Stamps &amp; Show Notes: (00:00 - 00:49) Introduction(00:50 - 04:12) Growing Up(04:13 - 05:28) Early Responsibilities (05:29 - 06:55) It Started With Family(06:56 - 08:34) Miss Aloha(08:35 - 13:41) The Accidental Pathway(13:42 - 19:09) Outreach Partnership Specialist(19:10 - 20:55) Preventing Burn Out(20:56 - 30:00) Now From The NICU(30:01 - 32:18) Raising Children(32:19 - 35:30) Water is Life(35:30 - 36:15) Conclusion

Unstoppable Stories S. 2 Ep. 6: Finding Meaning Through Family and Community with Jeannie Lum

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Host Nathan James sits down with UMGC student and project manager, Gavata Smith, to trace a path built on faith, forgiveness, and steady self-improvement. She shares how her mother’s addiction, her own early motherhood and other hard seasons sharpened her resolve, why telling the truth about past mistakes gives her family and community real hope, and how healing looks when love and accountability meet.Gavata breaks down a late-career pivot into technology, the certification stack that keeps her relevant in GovCon, and the time management system that lets work, school, and family coexist. She also explains how service keeps her grounded, from mentoring justice-involved women to relaunching a domestic violence ministry and helping job seekers with stronger résumés and interviews.Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments!To learn more about UMGC, visit: UMGC.edu/Unstoppable. Host: Nathan JamesGuest: Gavata Smith, Project Manager and UMGC student Time Stamps &amp; Show Notes: (00:00 - 01:30) Intro and transparency (01:30 - 05:13) Early lessons (05:14 - 08:00) Tech break (08:01 - 11:00) Cert stack &amp; routines (11:01 - 13:55) YouTube tips (13:56 - 16:46) Family healing (16:47 - 21:08) Service work (21:09 - 24:39) IC pivot (24:40 - 28:00) Volunteer mindset (28:01 - 30:53) Reflections and next steps

Unstoppable Stories S. 2 Ep. 5: Routines and Redemption: Learning That Leads with Gavata Smith

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Host Lauren Cardillo sits down with UMGC alumna and HR leader, Erika Lane to trace the path from East Baltimore beginnings to guiding people strategy at a major airline. Erika explains how she refused labels, chose the grind over complaints, and turned early customer service work into leadership by practicing empathy and composure. She shares the mentors and sponsors who opened doors, why she runs her life like a project manager, and how inclusive leadership starts with relatability and service. Along the way she breaks down her ‘stay ready’ system, updated materials, active networking, and the family legacy that keeps her anchored as the goals move forward. Listen for lessons on resilience, ownership, and building community that apply in any industry. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments! To learn more about UMGC, visit: UMGC.edu/Unstoppable. Host: Lauren CardilloGuest: Erika Lane, Human Resources leader, UMGC alumna Time Stamps &amp; Show Notes: (00:00 - 03:27) Origin Story(03:28 - 07:46) First Job &amp; Mentorship(07:47 - 09:59) Sponsorship vs. Mentorship(10:00 - 13:57) Staying Ready(13:58 - 18:09) Work-Life Integration(18:10 - 21:04) Back to School(21:05 - 25:40) Leading with Empathy(25:41 - 27:32) No Ceilings(27:33 - 29:26) Texas Transition(29:27 - 31:12) Future Plans(31:13 - 34:16) Loving the Work(34:17 - 36:13) Navigating &#34;The Only&#34;(36:14 - 39:19) Owning Choices &amp; Closing

Unstoppable Stories S. 2 Ep. 4: From East Baltimore to the Boardroom, Same Heartbeat w/ Erika Lane

Welcome to UMGC’s "Unstoppable Stories," a podcast that showcases extraordinary journeys of individuals who turned their dreams into reality. Join hosts Lauren Cardillo and Nathan James as they sit down with inspiring people who have broken barriers, defied expectations, and achieved remarkable success in their fields.

In each episode, Lauren and Nathan dive deep into the real, unvarnished stories behind their guests' accomplishments. From military veterans turned entrepreneurs to working parents who became industry leaders, these inspiring individuals share the obstacles they overcame and the pivotal moments that shaped their paths to success. They offer compelling insights for anyone looking to transform their own life and achieve their dreams.

"Unstoppable Stories" goes beyond the highlight reel to explore the grit, determination, and resilience it takes to achieve your goals. Whether you're a student, career changer, or simply someone seeking inspiration, these powerful narratives prove that with dedication and perseverance, there's no limit to what you can achieve.