How 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 challenges, and career pivots—across countries 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 s...
Jul 05, 2025•33 min•Ep. 93
Study 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 • Explo...
Jun 25, 2025•14 min•Ep. 92
Just 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 synd...
Jun 25, 2025•18 min•Ep. 91
Education 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 ...
Jun 25, 2025•13 min•Ep. 90
What’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 travel...
Jun 24, 2025•21 min•Ep. 89
Are 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, Research...
Jun 12, 2025•15 min•Ep. 88
For college grads In 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 for...
Jun 02, 2025•5 min•Ep. 87
Judy 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...
May 16, 2025•21 min•Ep. 86
In 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 entrepreneur How a thesis project on post-WWII playgrounds led to the creation of Lett...
May 11, 2025•32 min•Ep. 85
Andy Bell had a life changing event that rocked his world. And now he's working to change the world of education. As CEO of Thinkery , Andy shares his vision for revolutionizing education by combining AI technology with joyful learning experiences. During our conversation you'll learn: • how a brain cancer diagnosis gave Bell clarity and urgency about his mission to transform education • that our traditional education system was designed for industrial era skills, not the critical thinking neede...
Apr 26, 2025•36 min•Ep. 84
Mark Paz II shares his journey from shy kid to award-winning communication professor and TEDx coordinator and coach at Texas State University. He's on a mission to build strong relationships and develop good people. Mark was my TEDx coach and I think he's a rock star. Thanks to his coaching, I was able to find my voice, craft my message and deliver my talk from the red carpet. During our interview, you will learn how: • Growing up with parents who emphasized service and education created the fou...
Apr 06, 2025•24 min•Ep. 83
On this episode, I'm excited to share my interview with J.R. Gonzales. J.R. shares his remarkable journey from growing up in South Texas to becoming a successful entrepreneur, speaker, and podcaster. He's also a proud Texas State University graduate. J.R. recognizes his Latino heritage as a superpower that changed the trajectory of his life and career. He traces his family roots to the 1700's and says ' my ancestors never crossed the border, the border crossed them ." A passionate and engaging s...
Mar 23, 2025•41 min•Ep. 82
In this solo-episode, I share some insight about the graduate class I'm teaching - Creative Problem Solving in Mass Communication. I designed the class to connect students with creative entrepreneurs, business and media leaders. This semester, my students have met with three fantastic guest lecturers. Wendy Conklin, founder of Chair Whimsy Dr. Carrie Angell, President and CEO of the Better Business Bureau Fred Poston III, Exec. Director - Texas Media Production Alliance When we open ourselves to...
Mar 09, 2025•7 min•Ep. 81
Happy Valentine's Day! In this short solo episode, I celebrate the support we receive from friends, family, and colleagues. It’s a heartfelt reminder of the kindness that helps us navigate life’s challenges and embrace change. Key Takeaways • A grocery store encounter highlights the hidden struggles of others • Navigating change requires a strong support system • Friends and colleagues play vital roles in our journeys • Family support is invaluable during tough times • Kindness is an action, not...
Feb 14, 2025•6 min•Ep. 80
Are you navigating your 20s? or know someone who is? Many young adults in their 20s think their life should be carefree and non-stop fun. We've all heard that these should be ' the best years of your life .' But in reality, the decade of your 20s is challenging and often not the happiest time of life. On this episode I talk with Dr. Meg Jay, a developmental clinical psychologist, and faculty member at the University of Virginia. She's an expert in the crucial challenges young adults face in thei...
Feb 02, 2025•33 min•Ep. 79
Goal-Setting for Women: Understanding your Strengths with Caroline Adams Miller - Part 2 In part two of my interview with Caroline Adams Miller, she explores goal setting for women. We talk about gender differences and what women can do to achieve their dreams. The episode explores how women can effectively achieve their big goals by understanding their character strengths and confiding in the right supportive networks. Carolyn Adams Miller shares valuable insights into goal setting, the signifi...
Jan 21, 2025•11 min•Ep. 78
Big Goals with Caroline Adams Miller - Part 1 In this episode, Caroline Adams Miller explores effective goal setting and presents a research-backed approach to achieving personal and professional aspirations. In this episode, you will learn: • The limitations of the SMART goal system • Introduction of Locke and Latham's goal-setting theory • Key differences between performance and learning goals • Importance of goal clarity in personal and professional settings • Real-life examples of goal-setti...
Jan 20, 2025•24 min•Ep. 77
What if a career change could unlock your creativity and transform your life? That's what happened to Content Creator and Podcaster Kelsey Graves. She is the creator and host of the Trip Tales podcast . Kelsey inspires listeners with her journey from marketing to content creation. During our conversation, Kelsey showcases the power of embracing change while nurturing creativity. She shares her experiences of manifesting dreams, family travel adventures, and navigating the gig economy. Kelsey enc...
Jan 07, 2025•37 min•Ep. 76
In this solo episode, I share some personal insight about how we can start 2025 and embrace new beginnings. Takeaways Embrace new beginnings Let go of the past to make room for new starts Find opportunities to make a new start in your day Recognize and celebrate moments of joy Give yourself permission to begin again Think tiny. Take a small step forward Wishing you and your family a Happy New Year. Want to start your own podcast? Start for FREE Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If ...
Dec 31, 2024•13 min•Ep. 75
As 2024 comes to a close, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the incredible conversations we've had this year. In this short solo episode, I’m revisiting some of the most impactful interviews that touched on leadership, resilience, health, and personal growth. These episodes have sparked new insights, challenged old paradigms, and shared inspiring stories that I hope have resonated with you and contributed to your own journey of self-discovery and transformation. When I set out to bring these c...
Dec 22, 2024•8 min•Season 6Ep. 74
Ever wondered how artificial intelligence is reshaping our world and what it means for your future career? I'm certainly following this topic along with my university colleagues. Join me for an enlightening conversation with TIM HAYDEN, CEO of Brain+Trust Partners and Texas State University alumnus, as we dissect the rapid evolution of AI. Discover how intuitive models like Perplexity are transforming the way we access information and why hands-on experimentation with AI tools is crucial to unde...
Sep 12, 2024•34 min•Season 6Ep. 73
I’m excited to share my interview with Conny Dassen. I met Conny in The Netherlands….she and my husband went to high school together and have been friends for decades. I interviewed Conny from the charming setting of her historic farmhouse in eastern Holland, near the German border. Career Join us as we explore the heartwarming and adventurous life of Conny Dassen, whose career journey has taken her from busy Amsterdam to the tranquil countryside of rural eastern Holland. Conny’s diverse profess...
Jul 29, 2024•19 min•Ep. 72
Are you training for the next decade ? Can therapeutic yoga revolutionize the way we approach back pain and functional mobility? Join us for a captivating conversation with Dr. Nydia Tijerina Darby, a physical therapist and therapeutic yoga specialist. Dr. Darby is always training for the next decade . Discover how Nydia’s passion for movement helped her combat anxiety and depression, setting her on a path to a rewarding career that blends physical therapy and yoga. Nydia Tijerina Darby is a Doc...
Jul 09, 2024•43 min•Ep. 71
Have you ever wanted or needed to change your life and wondered how to do it? Well, this interview may be for you. On this episode, I'm excited to share my conversation with Elisabeth Sharp McKetta. Author of 13 books, Liz teaches writing for Harvard and Oxford and is the founder of the Book Year Writer's Circle. McKetta's latest book is entitled Edit your Life: A Handbook for Living with Intention in a Messy World . Elisabeth knows about what she writes. During our interview, she shares the sto...
Jul 03, 2024•34 min•Season 4Ep. 70
This is a Happy Birthday episode. Join me for an unforgettable conversation with my incredible mother, Joan Barnes, as she celebrates her 93rd birthday. Hear about the early years of her marriage to my dad, their adventures during his Navy service, and their 1st year together in Bermuda. Joan's stories offer a unique perspective on the wisdom, love, and resilience that have been the backbone of our family for generations. In this heartwarming episode, Mom and I dive deep into the fabric of our f...
Jun 19, 2024•22 min•Ep. 69
Have you ever felt the ground beneath you shift so profoundly, it alters the course of your life? Peiming Sun , known as Sunny, certainly has. From her days as a molecular biologist to her transformative journey to become a holistic lifestyle mentor, Sunny's story is one of self-discovery and resilience. Sunny applies ancient wisdom and modern science to help her mid-aged women clients change the story narratives and raise awareness about mind-body connection at the genetic level so that they ca...
Jun 08, 2024•31 min•Ep. 68
' As a functional medicine doctor, I have an opportunity of 20 to 30 years, before someone develops symptoms, to help them change, because a lot of the preventive strategies that we use for prevention of Dementia are lifestyle related.' Dr. Shabnam Das Kar transformed her medical career so she could help her patients avoid Dementia. Before transitioning to functional medicine, Dr. Kar was practicing as an obstetrician gynecologist for more than 20 years in Mumbai. She lives in Calgary, Canada, a...
Jun 02, 2024•33 min•Ep. 67
"Sleep isn't everything, but it impacts everything." - Glen Lubbert Peak performance in life and business often starts with the foundation of a good night's sleep. Entrepreneur Glen Lubbert understands - first hand - the transformative influence that prioritizing sleep has on energy and focus. A technology serial entrepreneur, Glen Lubbert is a certified sleep and behavior design expert, trained in mindfulness, nervous system management, and the Tiny Habits® and Thrive Global methodologies. He f...
May 02, 2024•24 min•Ep. 66
Challenge and change are a part of life. And it's often difficult to find the strength to carry on and keep moving forward. In this episode, Linda Fogg-Phillips shares her personal story of resilience and determination. She faced the triple blow of a family business collapse during the 2008 financial crisis, the heart-wrenching loss of her son Garrett and the death of her husband. These tragic events eventually led to the creation of the Pearl Habits Method. The Pearl Habit Method was created by...
Apr 07, 2024•34 min•Ep. 65
Ok - now you know your strengths and natural talents. You understand the proven formula for creating habit recipes. You also know why it's important to practice compassion for others and yourself. What's next? It's time to take action. In part 5 of this short audio series, I focus on how you can 'take action' to chart your own path and create your Leadership Playbook. Here's my 4-step process: 1. Discover your strengths 2. Understand the science of change 3. Practice compassion and 4. Take actio...
Mar 17, 2024•10 min•Ep. 64
