Degrees of Success Podcast

Briaca Duesette shares her journey from healthcare administration and caregiving into entrepreneurship and creative education. In this conversation, Briaca Duesette explains how Animation Discovery Studio was built to help young people explore animation, storytelling, technology, and creative careers. In this video, we explain Briaca Duesette's entrepreneurship journey, including how she transitioned from healthcare into building Animation Discovery Studio and creating opportunities for future animators. Keith Chandler sits down with entrepreneur and University of Phoenix Alumni Luminary Briaca Duesette to discuss career pivots, lifelong learning, leadership, education, and the importance of creating pathways for underserved youth. The conversation explores how animation can become both a creative outlet and a career path, while highlighting the practical steps involved in starting and growing a mission-driven organization.
You'll learn:
· How Animation Discovery Studio teaches animation and digital creativity to students
· What aspiring entrepreneurs should consider when starting a new venture
· Why exposure to technology and creative education matters for young people
· What outcomes and career paths can emerge from animation, content creation, design, and technology fields
Key topics covered:
· Career transitions and entrepreneurship
· Animation education and youth development
· Leadership and team building
· University of Phoenix education experience
· Mentorship and professional growth
· Creative careers and technology opportunities
 
This episode is especially relevant for:
· Entrepreneurs
· Career changers
· Educators · Parents
· Students interested in animation, technology, or creative industries
Timestamps 00:00 Building a creative future for young people
01:02 Introduction to Briaca Duesette
03:36 Education journey and early career goals
05:00 Transition from healthcare to technology
06:29 Creating Animation Discovery Studio
08:53 Leadership and team development
10:20 Working with underserved communities
12:35 Briaca's animated projects
13:53 Lessons from University of Phoenix
16:00 Balancing creativity and leadership
17:04 Mentorship and advice
19:04 Managing multiple career paths
21:45 Starting a business and entrepreneurship
23:08 Growth as a founder and CEO
25:18 Motherhood and creative inspiration
27:03 Recognition as an Alumni Luminary
28:00 What's next for Animation Discovery Studio
29:37 Lifelong learning and future goals
30:41 Final thoughts
 

Entrepreneur success story is the focus of this episode, as Fernando Torres explains how he moved from hospitality and corporate sales into business ownership. This entrepreneur success story also shows how education, confidence, and adaptability can shape long-term growth for a service-based company.
In this video, we explain entrepreneur success story, including how Fernando Torres built a pest control business, made a career transition, and expanded through leadership and problem solving. The conversation covers how the process works in real life, what it takes to launch a business without formal industry experience, and why decision-making matters when you are building something from the ground up. It also shows the typical paths tied to an entrepreneur success story, including early uncertainty, hands-on learning, hiring your first team member, and growing into a more efficient operation.
Key topics in this episode include education and lifelong learning, hospitality and sales experience, pest control operations, business expansion, mentoring, family balance, and personal discipline. Fernando also explains how he uses routines like golf, workouts, and reading to stay focused, generate ideas, and manage stress while leading a business.
This episode is relevant for aspiring entrepreneurs, small business owners, and professionals thinking about a career change. It is also useful for anyone who wants to understand how confidence, communication, and persistence can influence business outcomes over time.If you found this conversation helpful, please like, comment, and subscribe for more real business stories and leadership lessons. This entrepreneur success story is a strong example of how learning, adjusting, and staying consistent can create momentum over time.
⭐️ Key takeaways from this episode:✓ Fernando's journey reflects resilience and adaptability.✓ Personal growth is essential for success.✓ Golf serves as a therapeutic outlet for Fernando.✓ Education and perseverance helped Fernando find his footing.✓ Entrepreneurship was sparked by a push from his wife.✓ est control became an opportunity to solve problems.✓ Success is defined by quality relationships, not size.✓ Lifelong learning is key to personal and professional growth.
📖 Chapters: Jump to Key Moments00:00 -  Education, work, and choosing a flexible school01:00 -  Welcome to Degrees of Success02:04 -  Golf, focus, and personal reset time04:57 -  Education, perseverance, and early encouragement06:38 -  Hospitality, service, and reading people09:05 -  The push toward entrepreneurship10:55 -  Starting the pest control business13:08 -  Learning the industry and building confidence16:10 -  Early doubts and staying the course17:11 -  Hiring the first technician17:45 -  Defining success as a boutique business20:03 -  Expansion plans and building a team21:23 -  Family influence and business priorities23:53 -  Lifelong learning and finishing college27:00 -  Mentoring staff and leadership growth29:03 -  Advice for starting something new30:21 -  Closing thoughts
If this helped, please like, comment with your biggest takeaway, and subscribe for more leadership and career conversations.👉 https://www.youtube.com/@UOPXDegreesOfSuccessPodcast  
Learn more about scholarships at UOPX!👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/info/scholarships.html
Alumni Chronicles | Magazine👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/blog/alumni-chronicles/magazine.htmlAlumni Chronicles | Main Page 👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/blog/alumni-chronicles.htmlExplore the Degrees of Success Podcast Page 👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/blog/alumni-chronicles/podcast.html Explore the University of Phoenix👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/
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Leadership is the central theme of this episode, as Michael Bullock shares how emotionally intelligent leadership, communication, and a growth mindset shaped his path in the fire service. Leadership is also the thread that connects his education, his promotions, and the way he manages training, resources, and people in a high-stakes environment. In this video, we explain leadership in fire service and education, including how Michael Bullock moved from frontline emergency response into organizational leadership through practical experience, an MBA, and a commitment to continuous learning. The discussion shows how leadership works when trust, teamwork, and preparedness matter every day, what people should consider when stepping into new responsibilities, why education matters when building credibility and confidence, and what outcomes are often associated with this kind of career path, including promotion, stronger team culture, and broader impact. Michael also explains how he applies lessons from school and the field to real operational decisions, including inventory management, purchasing systems, contract structure, and supporting crews with better tools and processes. He talks about the value of being honest without creating panic, knowing when to pause a difficult conversation, and using failure as part of learning rather than a reason to quit. The episode also highlights the role of family support, professional development, and mentorship in long-term success. This episode is relevant for first responders, public service professionals, adult learners, and anyone considering a return to school while balancing work and family. It is also useful for people interested in leadership development, career advancement, and the connection between experience and education. If this conversation resonates with you, please like, comment, and subscribe, and share this episode with someone who is considering their next step.
 
⭐️ Key takeaways from this episode:
✓ Leadership & communication
✓ Ideal day in the fire service
✓ Healthcare and public service
✓ Applying an MBA in the fire service
 
📖 Chapters: Jump to Key Moments
00:00 - Leadership, communication, and growth mindset
01:03 - Introduction to Michael Bullock
02:03 - Ideal day in fire service leadership
04:09 - Early interest in healthcare and public service
07:48 - How emergency work shapes perspective
08:48 - Returning to school and choosing an MBA
13:08 - Applying the MBA in the fire department
16:10 - Inventory management and process improvements
20:33 - Leadership style and growth mindset
23:22 - University of Phoenix luminary recognition
27:32 - Advice for adult learners
29:55 - Personal and professional milestones
31:36 - Closing thoughts If this helped, please like, comment with your biggest takeaway, and subscribe for more leadership and career conversations.
👉 https://www.youtube.com/@UOPXDegreesOfSuccessPodcast
Learn more about scholarships at UOPX!
👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/info/scholarships.html
Alumni Chronicles | Magazine 👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/blog/alumni-chronicles/magazine.html
Alumni Chronicles | Main Page 👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/blog/alumni-chronicles.html
Explore the Degrees of Success Podcast Page
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Explore the University of Phoenix 👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/
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Associate Degree in Business graduate Deann Smith shares how she overcame major life challenges to earn her first college degree. In this video, we explain Associate Degree in Business, including how education can create new opportunities and personal transformation. Deann discusses how the Associate Degree in Business program works, what it takes to stay consistent, and what individuals should consider when returning to school after difficult life circumstances. Her journey highlights why education matters as a tool for rebuilding stability and creating long-term career paths. This episode covers key sub-topics such as overcoming adversity, balancing parenthood and education, and developing personal discipline. It also explores the outcomes associated with earning an Associate Degree in Business, including increased confidence, career mobility, and the ability to pursue further education. This video is relevant for adult learners, individuals facing setbacks, and anyone considering going back to school for the first time.
 
⭐️ Key takeaways from this episode:
✓ Deann's background and challenges
✓ The role of faith and community support
✓ The importance of grit and self-belief
✓ Future plans and aspirations
 
📖 Chapters: Jump to Key Moments
00:00 - Overcoming Adversity: A Journey from Homelessness to Graduation
02:33 - The Power of Grit and Self-Discovery
05:53 - Faith and Support: The Role of God and Community
07:47 - Inspiring the Next Generation: Lessons for My Children
10:15 - Future Aspirations: Building a Shelter and Continuing Education
12:51 - Encouragement for Others: Taking the Leap of Faith If this helped, please like, comment with your biggest takeaway, and subscribe for more leadership and career conversations.
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Learn more about scholarships at UOPX! 👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/info/scholarships.html
Alumni Chronicles | Magazine 👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/blog/alumni-chronicles/magazine.html Alumni Chronicles | Main Page 👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/blog/alumni-chronicles.html
Explore the Degrees of Success Podcast Page 👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/blog/alumni-chronicles/podcast.html
 
Explore the University of Phoenix 👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/
⭐️ Connect with us on social!
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Master of Health Administration graduate Terry Setzer shares how he advanced his healthcare career through education. In this video, we explain Master of Health Administration, including how the program builds leadership skills and industry knowledge. Terry explains how the Master of Health Administration works, what professionals should consider before enrolling, and why credentials are important in healthcare leadership roles. His experience highlights the connection between education and career advancement in complex healthcare systems. This episode covers key sub-topics such as competency-based learning, healthcare leadership requirements, and applying academic knowledge in real-world settings. It also outlines outcomes associated with a Master of Health Administration, including expanded career opportunities, leadership roles, and future doctoral pathways. This video is relevant for healthcare professionals, working adults, and individuals seeking leadership roles in medical or administrative settings.
 
⭐️ Key takeaways from this episode:
✓ Healthcare administration career path
✓ The value of competency-based education
✓ The importance of credentials and empathy in healthcare
✓ Balancing work, life, and education
✓ Future ambitions in healthcare and education
 
📖 Chapters:
Jump to Key Moments 00:00 - The Journey to Graduation
00:00 - Choosing the Right Program
00:00 - The Importance of Credentials
00:00 - Mentorship and Community Support
00:00 - Looking Ahead: Future Goals and Advice If this episode helped, please like, comment with your biggest takeaway, and subscribe for more leadership and career conversations.
 
👉 https://www.youtube.com/@UOPXDegreesOfSuccessPodcast Learn more about scholarships at UOPX! 👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/info/scholarships.html
Alumni Chronicles | Magazine 👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/blog/alumni-chronicles/magazine.html Alumni Chronicles | Main Page 👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/blog/alumni-chronicles.html
Explore the Degrees of Success Podcast Page 👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/blog/alumni-chronicles/podcast.html
Explore the University of Phoenix 👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/
⭐️ Connect with us on social!
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🎓 Find your degree program University of Phoenix: https://www.phoenix.edu/online-degrees/find-your-program.html

Doctor of Business Administration graduate Dr. Paul White explains his path from career shifts to earning a doctoral degree. In this video, we explain Doctor of Business Administration, including the level of effort, discipline, and long-term value of completing the program. Dr. White shares how the Doctor of Business Administration process works, including coursework, dissertation requirements, and time commitment. He also outlines what professionals should consider before pursuing this degree and why continuous learning is essential for career growth. This episode explores key sub-topics such as balancing full-time work with education, learning from failure, and developing consistency. It also highlights outcomes associated with a Doctor of Business Administration, including leadership development, career advancement, and personal transformation. This content is ideal for working professionals, parents returning to school, and individuals considering advanced business degrees.
 
⭐️ Key takeaways from this episode:
✓ Never too old to reinvent yourself and pursue education.
✓ Failure is a learning opportunity and part of growth.
✓ Rely on your social network and family support during challenges.
✓ Persistence and discipline are key to completing advanced degrees.
 
📖 Chapters: Jump to Key Moments
00:00 - Introduction and Dr. White’s background
01:09 - Journey from mortgage industry to higher education
03:00 - The importance of lifelong learning and curiosity
05:25 - Embracing failure as a learning experience
07:09 - The challenges and rewards of pursuing a doctorate
09:36 - The significance of humility and listening to mentors
13:40 - The value of continuous education and curiosity
14:18 - Key lessons for aspiring students
16:50 - Encouragement and final advice for learners If this helped, please like, comment with your biggest takeaway, and subscribe for more leadership and career conversations.
 
👉 https://www.youtube.com/@UOPXDegreesOfSuccessPodcast Learn more about scholarships at UOPX!
👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/info/scholarships.html Alumni Chronicles | Magazine
👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/blog/alumni-chronicles/magazine.html Alumni Chronicles |
Main Page 👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/blog/alumni-chronicles.html Explore the Degrees of Success Podcast Page 👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/blog/alumni-chronicles/podcast.html
 
Explore the University of Phoenix 👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/
⭐️ Connect with us on social!
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► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/universityofphoenix
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► Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uopx/
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► X: https://x.com/UOPX Thinking about attending UOPX online?
📱 Request info today: https://www.phoenix.edu/request/request-information
💻 Apply to one of UOPX’s online programs today: https://rb.gy/k0a75c
🎓 Find your degree program University of Phoenix: https://www.phoenix.edu/online-degrees/find-your-program.html

Doctorate in Business Administration graduate Dr. Bria James shares her journey from St. Croix to earning her doctoral degree. In this video, we explain Doctorate in Business Administration, including the commitment, challenges, and outcomes of completing a doctoral program. Dr. Bria James earned her Doctorate in Business Administration at age 28 and discusses the role of family support, discipline, and lifelong learning in her success. This episode explores how the Doctorate in Business Administration process works, what students should consider before pursuing it, and why this level of education can shape leadership opportunities and personal growth. We also cover key sub-topics such as dissertation requirements, academic resilience, and the importance of a strong support system. The video highlights how pursuing a Doctorate in Business Administration can lead to career advancement, community impact, and continued academic development. This content is especially relevant for aspiring doctoral students, working professionals considering advanced degrees, and individuals from underrepresented communities exploring higher education paths.
 
⭐️ Key takeaways from this episode:
✓ Support from family and community is crucial for success.
✓ Perseverance and faith can help overcome academic challenges.
✓ Lifelong learning is a continuous journey that fuels personal growth.
✓ Celebrating milestones like graduation inspires others to pursue their goals.
 
📖 Chapters: Jump to Key Moments
00:00 - Celebrating Achievement and Support
02:26 - Journey to Doctorate: Overcoming Challenges
05:53 - The Role of Family and Community
08:18 - Inspiration and Future Aspirations If this helped, please like, comment with your biggest takeaway, and subscribe for more leadership and career conversations.
👉 https://www.youtube.com/@UOPXDegreesOfSuccessPodcast Learn more about scholarships at UOPX!
👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/info/scholarships.html Alumni Chronicles | Magazine
👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/blog/alumni-chronicles/magazine.html Alumni Chronicles | Main Page
👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/blog/alumni-chronicles.html Explore the Degrees of Success Podcast Page 👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/blog/alumni-chronicles/podcast.html Explore the University of Phoenix
👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/
⭐️ Connect with us on social!
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► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/universityofphoenix
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► Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uopx/
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► X: https://x.com/UOPX Thinking about attending UOPX online?
📱 Request info today: https://www.phoenix.edu/request/request-information
💻 Apply to one of UOPX’s online programs today: https://rb.gy/k0a75c
🎓 Find your degree program University of Phoenix: https://www.phoenix.edu/online-degrees/find-your-program.html

Education entrepreneurship is the focus of this conversation with Jenica Lindquist.In this episode, we explore education entrepreneurship through global teaching experience, innovation in learning, and building student-centered schools.In this video, we explain education entrepreneurship, including how educators create new learning models, support diverse student needs, and build sustainable education businesses. Jenica Lindquist shares her journey from teaching in the United States to working internationally in Japan, Taiwan, and the United Arab Emirates. She discusses how those experiences shaped her approach to education and led to the creation of the Eleanor Rose Education Center and MyELL program. Her work focuses on individualized learning, community involvement, and supporting students with different learning needs.We cover how education entrepreneurship works in practice, including how to identify gaps in traditional systems, how to design learning environments that support student growth, and how to build programs that serve both students and families. We also discuss what to consider when starting a school or education-based business, including long-term commitment, adaptability, and the importance of community relationships.This video matters because education entrepreneurship plays a key role in shaping how students learn and how education systems evolve. Understanding these concepts can help educators, parents, and professionals make informed decisions about learning environments and career paths. Typical outcomes associated with education entrepreneurship include improved student engagement, personalized learning experiences, stronger community connections, and new opportunities for innovation in education.
 
Key Topics Covered:
• Global teaching experience and education systems
• Entrepreneurship in education• Individualized learning and student support
• Building and scaling education programs
 
Who This Video Is For:
• Educators exploring new approaches to teaching
• Entrepreneurs interested in education businesses•
Parents seeking alternative learning environments•
Professionals interested in leadership and innovation in education
Timestamps:
00:00 Entrepreneurship Advice and Mindset
00:54 Welcome to Degrees of Success
02:00 Meet Jenica Lindquist
02:34 Autism Gala and Community Impact
04:42 Early Education and Career Shift
06:39 From Pre-Law to Education Path
06:54 Teaching Internationally and Career Direction
09:36 Education Systems and Cultural Differences
12:41 Learning Japanese and Adapting Abroad
14:10 Returning to the United States and Career Reset
16:27 Reinventing Yourself in a New City
17:05 Passion for STEM and Early Education
20:10 Pursuing aMaster’s Degree in Education
21:27 Discovering Her Teaching Niche
21:45 Building My ELL Program
23:33 Starting Eleanor Rose Education Center
24:09 Entrepreneurship and Solving Education Gaps
26:17 The Reality of Entrepreneurship
26:37 IndividualizedLearning and Student Support
27:56 Parent and Community Involvement
29:48 Lessons from Global Education Systems
29:50 Launching the IEP Inc Podcast
30:38 University of Phoenix Luminary Recognition
31:56 Closing Like this video, leave a comment with your perspective, and subscribe for more conversations one education entrepreneurship and career development.
 
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Law enforcement leadership is at the center of this conversation with Dr. Shaun Ward. In this episode, we explore law enforcement leadership through mentorship, education, and real-world experience. In this episode, we explore leadership in law enforcement through mentorship, education, and real-world experience. Dr. Shaun Ward shares his journey from growing up in New Jersey to building a career in policing, leadership, and organizational consulting. The discussion highlights how leadership develops over time and how mentorship, education, and personal experiences shape professional outcomes. We cover how law enforcement leadership works in practice, including how supervisors motivate teams, how decision-making impacts outcomes, and how individuals can grow into leadership roles. We also discuss what to consider when pursuing a career in law enforcement or leadership, including education, discipline, and long-term commitment. This video matters because law enforcement leadership directly impacts communities, organizational performance, and individual career paths. Understanding these dynamics can help viewers make informed decisions about their future. Typical outcomes associated with law enforcement leadership include career advancement, improved team performance, stronger community relationships, and increased organizational effectiveness.
 
⭐️ Key takeaways from this episode:
✓ Leadership in law enforcement
✓ Mentorship and personal growth
✓ Impact of education on career
✓ Mentorship and service values
✓ Motivation and supervision strategies
 
📖 Chapters: Jump to Key Moments
00:00 - Introduction and Main Themes
01:57 - Dr. Shaun Ward's Background and Family Influence
04:14 - Early Education and Overcoming Challenges
07:47 - Path to Law Enforcement and Mentorship
13:27 - Insights from Boots on the Ground
17:15 - Pursuing a Doctorate in Organizational Leadership
21:04 - Research on Leadership and Motivation
24:57 - The People-First Philosophy and Services
26:13 - Advice for Educational and Career Advancement
27:25 - Closing Remarks and Final Thoughts If this helped, please like, comment with your biggest takeaway, and subscribe for more leadership and career conversations.
👉 https://www.youtube.com/@UOPXDegreesOfSuccessPodcast
Learn more about scholarships at UOPX! 👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/info/scholarships.html
Alumni Chronicles | Magazine 👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/blog/alumni-chronicles/magazine.html
Alumni Chronicles | Main Page 👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/blog/alumni-chronicles.html
Explore the Degrees of Success Podcast Page 👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/blog/alumni-chronicles/podcast.html
Explore the University of Phoenix 👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/
 
⭐️ Connect with us on social!
►TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@uopx
► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/universityofphoenix
► Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uopxalumni/
► Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uopx/
► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/school/university-of-phoenix/
► X: https://x.com/UOPX Thinking about attending UOPX online?
📱 Request info today: https://www.phoenix.edu/request/request-information
💻 Apply to one of UOPX’s online programs today: https://rb.gy/k0a75c
🎓 Find your degree program University of Phoenix: https://www.phoenix.edu/online-degrees/find-your-program.html

Collaboration is the focus of this conversation with Jennifer Reed Goddard, president and CEO of Philanthropy West Virginia. In this episode of Degrees of Success, she explains how partnership-building shows up in real work across nonprofits, funders, and community institutions. In this video, we explain collaboration in statewide philanthropy, including how organizations coordinate funding, communication, and response when communities face urgent needs. Jennifer walks through how the process works in practice: convening stakeholders, sharing situational updates, aligning goals, and reducing duplicated effort so resources can move with clearer intent. The episode also covers what audiences should consider before taking action—such as understanding roles (funders vs. frontline providers), setting expectations for timelines, and balancing immediate relief with sustained support. This content matters because nonprofits often operate under tight capacity and shifting conditions, and collaboration can improve decision-making and speed up problem-solving across a network. Typical outcomes include faster coordination during disruptions, clearer pathways for donors and partners to contribute, and longer-term relationships that make future responses smoother.
 
⭐️ Key takeaways from this episode:
✓ Community involvement from a young age
✓ The evolution of philanthropy in West Virginia
✓ The role of storytelling and ethics in leadership
✓ Challenges and opportunities in nonprofit and corporate sectors
✓ The mission and future vision of Philanthropy West Virginia
📖 Chapters: Jump to Key Moments
00:00 - Introduction and Guest Background
01:59 - Early Community Involvement and Family Influence
04:08 - Living in Charleston and West Virginia's Rich Culture
05:27 - Education in Journalism and Public Relations
07:58 - Mentors and Ethical Foundations in Career
08:49 - Pursuing a Master's Degree and Career Development
11:28 - Work with West Virginia Kids Count and Impact on Children
13:30 - Transition from Corporate PR to Nonprofit Leadership
17:05 - About Philanthropy West Virginia and Its Mission
18:57 - Philanthropy During Crises and Natural Disasters
21:06 - The Role of Volunteers and Community Engagement
26:46 - Reflections on Success and Future Goals If this helped, please like, comment with your biggest takeaway, and subscribe for more leadership and career conversations.
👉 https://www.youtube.com/@UOPXDegreesOfSuccessPodcast
Learn more about scholarships at UOPX!
👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/info/scholarships.html
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