The Everyday Scholar

In this episode, APU's Jim Reese and Brittany Jacobs sit down with Donte Hewlett, General Manager at Lucky Strike in Durham, North Carolina. Donte shares his unfiltered and deeply human story of rising through the ranks in the sports and food & beverage industries – from grinding in sales for MLB teams to running large-scale food and beverage operations across the country. With refreshing honesty, he discusses professional setbacks, navigating corporate politics, building meaningful relationships, and the importance of knowing your worth. Donte's story is a powerful reminder that success rarely follows a straight line – and that resilience, integrity, and connection often matter more than titles. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, APU's Dr. Bjorn Mercer moderates a compelling conversation with Nuno Fernandes, President of American Public University System, and Lori Glover, Managing Director at MIT CSAIL Alliances. The discussion explores the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in higher education and beyond. Fernandes and Glover highlight how AI can personalize learning experiences, democratize access to knowledge, and reshape the workforce by automating routine tasks and augmenting human decision making. They emphasize the importance of domain expertise, ethical AI use, and equipping both students and faculty with tools to thrive in an AI-driven future. Real-world applications—ranging from pilot training to streamlining college credit transfers—showcase how AI is already enhancing education and workplace efficiency. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr. Bjorn Mercer chats with APU professor Dr. Chapla Verma about her forthcoming book “Lotus in the Desert-Mahapajapati: A Theravada Nunnery in California,” which explores the challenges and resilience of Theravada Buddhist nuns, particularly those at the Mahapajapati Monastery in California. Verma shares how she became interested in this topic and dives into the struggles these women face in a tradition where full ordination for nuns has often been restricted or outright denied, especially in places like Myanmar and Thailand. Through compelling personal stories, she highlights the perseverance of these nuns as they navigate strict monastic precepts, social barriers, and institutional resistance in their pursuit of equality within Buddhism. Their experiences shed light on the broader conversation around religious freedom, gender disparity, and the struggle for recognition in deeply rooted traditions.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does it take to stand out in today's digital landscape? In this engaging conversation, Linda Ashar speaks with Wes O'Donnell – military veteran, AMU alum, filmmaker, and director of the social media team at American Public University – about the power of social media in career advancement. Wes shares valuable strategies for students and professionals to build their professional network, leverage social media platforms, and showcase their skills through e-portfolios. From crafting compelling LinkedIn profiles to leveraging AI for content creation, Wes provides practical insights and real-world experiences to help listeners navigate the evolving online professional space with confidence. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr. Bjorn Mercer and Dr. Jennifer Fisch-Ferguson explore the evolving landscape of writing in the era of AI, addressing ethical concerns, student development, and the potential biases of generative language models. Dr. Fisch-Ferguson discusses the complexities of writing education and the importance of maintaining academic integrity and personal voice in an increasingly AI-assisted world. They examine how using AI as a supportive tool—rather than a crutch—can foster authentic writing skills and encourage curiosity. With reflections on lifelong learning and adapting to technology, this episode emphasizes the enduring value of critical thinking and creativity in writing. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, APU's Dr. Jim Reese sits down with James DeMeo, a security expert with decades of experience in law enforcement and event security. DeMeo shares his journey from working in law enforcement on Long Island to becoming a consultant and educator specializing in security for sports venues. He dives into the challenges of keeping large crowds safe at stadiums and concerts, emphasizing the “duty of care” that security teams owe to attendees. DeMeo highlights how vital it is for venue managers to balance creating a safe environment with making the fan experience enjoyable.He also talks about the latest security tools, from biometrics to surveillance technology, that help identify potential threats before they escalate. For students, especially those with military backgrounds, DeMeo offers advice: start networking, keep learning, and get hands-on experience. He believes new professionals in sports security can make a big impact by understanding the importance of collaboration, proactive planning, and staying on top of security trends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this insightful discussion, APU's Dr. Bjorn Mercer and Dr. Mitch Colver explore the transformative role of generative AI in enhancing lifelong learning and critical thinking. Dr. Colver highlights how tools like ChatGPT serve as valuable aids in distributed cognition, helping individuals process information more efficiently and navigate complex topics in both personal and professional contexts. The conversation touches on practical applications of generative AI, from resolving family debates to aiding in understanding complex texts. Dr. Colver emphasizes the importance of using AI as a resource to augment human ingenuity rather than replace it, underscoring the value of maintaining critical inquiry and intellectual engagement. Together, they advocate for a balanced approach, where AI complements human expertise, fostering deeper learning and creative problem-solving. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

More than 25 million people around the world are estimated to be victims of human trafficking. APU's Dr. Linda Ashar interviews professor Dr. Steve Wynne, an international legal consultant and associate professor, about the non-profit he founded to help combat human trafficking. Learn about Blink3, a nonprofit initiative created to help victims signal for help using a nonverbal SOS by blinking three times. Blink3 also offers free educational courses to raise awareness and prevent human trafficking. The conversation highlights the importance of public awareness and collective action in addressing this global issue. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jon Spencer, Director of Scouting for Real Salt Lake and University alumnus, talks with Dr. Jim Reese and President Nuno Fernandes about his journey to becoming a key figure in Major League Soccer. He discusses the importance of hard work, patience, and determination in building a successful career in sports, highlighting how soccer has evolved in the U.S. over the past decade. Listen to hear valuable insight and advice for aspiring sports professionals. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Recent national attention on systematic social injustices has caused many corporate leaders to take a hard look at their company's approach to diversity, equity and inclusion. In this episode, APU business professor Cynthia Gentile talks to Uva Christina Coles, the founder and CEO of Inclusiva, a consulting firm specializing in workforce inclusion. Learn about the need for companies to create an open and safe space for leaders and employees to talk about diversity, steps and tools needed to build comprehensive DEI policies and procedures, and how the pandemic has helped further these conversations by humanizing employees and drawing closer the line between work and personal lives. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Education will change more in the next 15 years than it has for the last millennium, predicts Nuno Fernandes, President of American Public University System. Hear how technology and innovation – specifically artificial intelligence – could lead to advancements in education not seen since the advent of the printing press. Together with Dr. Bjorn Mercer, Mr. Fernandes contemplates how AI might transform students' experiences in the classroom. From unlocking new opportunities for highly customized learning and instruction to potential tuition savings, AI could potentially redefine higher education. As artificial intelligence becomes increasingly prevalent, it is now more important than ever for students – and universities – to embrace change, plus prepare for what's next. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Director of Partnership Marketing at the Denver Broncos, Derek Thomas, joins APU's Dr. Jim Reese today to share his insights from more than 27 years in professional sports. Thomas lays out the facts on everything from climbing the corporate ladder to what goes on behind the scenes during off-season. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Former GM and current senior advisor for the Oakland Athletics, Billy Beane, shares his insight on the ever-evolving world of professional sports. As a pioneer in the use of data and analytics for managing teams, Beane's work with the Oakland A's inspired the book, “Moneyball,” which was adapted for film in 2011. Today, Beane walks Dr. Reese through his decades-long career while answering questions from students eager to launch their own sports management careers. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How do innovation, AI, and corporate sponsorships impact the world of professional motor sports? And why should Sports Management majors try to learn about finance? Chief revenue officer for Richard Childress Racing, Jason Golden, shares all the answers today with APU Sports Management faculty. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What are the top industries for MBA graduates to consider? Is working abroad an option? How is AI transforming job interviews? APU School of Business professor and international speaker, Dr. Bob Barrett, shares his insight with Dr. Linda Ashar. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With a career spanning more than three decades, former NBA executive, Tommy Sheppard, shares his wisdom with APU's Dr. James Reese. Hear his advice for students eager to break into the world of professional sports—and what he has to say about the biggest challenges facing athletes today. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

AMU's Dr. Michael Pittaro talks about the high rate of suicide among correctional officers and the need to address mental health issues among criminal justice professionals. It may surprise some that the leading cause of stress and burnout does NOT come from working with dangerous criminal offenders. Learn how transformational leadership can have a huge impact on the health and wellness of correctional officers. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

There are more than 100 different specialties in nursing, providing nurses with a variety of career options to pursue. In this episode, APU's Dr. Bjorn Mercer talks to Assistant Dean and nurse Dr. Stacey Malinowski about her career path and the numerous ways students can pursue a nursing education. Learn about what questions to ask when pursuing a nursing education including acceptance of transfer credits, accreditation, online course options, and more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How do you build a successful, long-lasting career in the sports industry? What skills matter most? How do you grow your network? Pro-sports executive, published author, and entrepreneur, Andy Dolich, joins APU's Dr. Jim Reese to answer all these questions, and more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What's a career in the major leagues like? How welcome are women, really? And, when they get there, how far can they go? APU's Dr. Jim Reese talks to APU alumna and Rugby ATL president, Amanda Windsor-White, who answers all these questions, and more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What happens when customers return items they've bought? Where do those products go, and how can companies transform their returns processes into sustainable operations? RecirQ CEO and American Public University alumnus, Rich Bulger, joins Dr. Oliver Hedgepeth today to answer these questions, and more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How do you start your own business in sports? What's it like representing athletes? How are AI and NIL impacting players? Renowned sports agent, philanthropist, author, and the inspiration behind Jerry Maguire, Leigh Steinberg, sits down with APU's Dr. Jim Reese and Dr. Brittany Jacobs today to discuss all this, and more, while answering questions submitted by our students. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

AI-generated content: how original is it? What are the legal ramifications? How does AI identify truths? And, from whose perspective? American Public University's Dr. Bjorn Mercer and James Lendvay discuss these questions—and more—on today's episode. (Catch up on Part 1 here if you missed it.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Starting new classes is exciting, but it can also bring a lot of anxiety and uncertainty especially for students who are new to online learning. In this episode, APU's Dr. Linda Ashar talks to Dr. Doris Blanton about the challenges students often face when starting online education for the first time. Learn why students often experience imposter syndrome and how you can improve your self-confidence and become better at time management so you don't rely on tools like AI to do the learning for you. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In December 2022, President Biden signed into law the Speak Out Act, which essentially invalidates non-disclosure (NDA) or non-disparagement agreements in cases involving sexual assault or sexual harassment. American Public University professor Cynthia Gentile talks to attorney Ivy Kempf about how this bipartisan legislation arose from the #MeToo movement and the nuances of this new federal legislation and similar state laws that continue to amend employee protections. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Dr. Linda Ashar talks with career coach Maisha Christian about the challenges of mid-career changes brought about by COVID and fast-moving technological advancements such as artificial intelligence (AI). Learn how to navigate these career changes by recognizing and leveraging your own leadership style. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this podcast, Dr. Jim Reese - coordinator of internships and community relations for the Sports Management and Esports programs at APU – speaks with Sarah Jamieson. Sarah is a former student of the University, currently excelling in the field of sports management. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

APU's Dr. Bjorn Mercer and James Lendvay engage in a compelling dialogue on the impact of AI in education, arts, and employment. They explore academic integrity, the authenticity of AI-created art, and the transformative role of AI in the workforce, shedding light on the complex interface between AI and our everyday lives. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, APU's Dr. Nicole Drumhiller talks to Drs. Harry Cooper, Elliott Lynn, and Andre Slonopas about the dangers we face from our consistent cyber presence and the ways we can protect ourselves.(Complete our survey to tell us what you think about our episodes!) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When disaster strikes, no one wants to leave their beloved pets behind. To ensure pets are prepared for unpredictable situations, owners should incorporate them into their emergency plans. In addition, for dogs, especially, owners should undergo professional training to build up their dog's resiliency and skills so they can cope in stressful situations.In this episode, APU's Dr. Nicole Drumhiller talks to an emergency and disaster management (EDM) expert and two dog training experts about the steps owners should take to prepare their pets for stressful situations.Hear Dr. Chris Reynolds' insights from his 33 years of disaster response experience about what to expect during an emergency situation and how pet owners should modify their disaster preparedness plans to account for their pets' well-being. Also hear from award-winning dog trainers, Glen Gosse and Rachel Nelson, about specific types of training and skills their dogs should have so they're prepared for stressful and unexpected situations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Billionaire. Genius. Visionary. Elon Musk is well known for his business achievements, but his leadership leaves something to be desired. In this episode, APU's Dr. Bjorn Mercer talks to APU's Dr. Linda Ashar and Dr. Cynthia Gentile about this polarizing figure. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Super Bowl is an annual American football tradition, beloved by fans across the country. In this episode, APU's Dr. Brittany Jacobs talks to APU's Dr. Jim Reese about his attendance at this year's Super Bowl and making connections and content. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Women have traditionally taken a back seat to men when it comes to leadership in the workplace. In this episode, APU's Dr. Aikyna Finch talks to Dr. Bobette Brown about overcoming the disadvantages that women leaders face. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) or algorithmic decision-making tools are now being used by employers to make hiring decisions. In this episode, APU's Cynthia Gentile talks to Ivy Kempf about how these tools conflict with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Starting and operating a business requires many skills, but none more important than accounting. In this episode, APU's Dr. Aikyna Finch talks to Folasade Ayegbusi, the “accountability account” about some of the common mistakes small-business owners make. Learn why it's so important to identify strengths, opportunities and weaknesses so business owners know where to invest in learning new skills or hiring experts. Also learn about her biggest tax-saving strategies and why it's just as important to track your income as it is your expenses.(Complete our survey to tell us what you think about our episodes!) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The widespread availability of artificial intelligence (AI) tools like ChatGPT presents some pressing challenges for institutions of higher learning. In this episode, APU's Dr. Oliver Hedgepeth talks to professor Irv Varkonyi about issues of plagiarism and ethics when students use ChatGPT to write term papers and discussion forums. How can faculty members address these complex issues to ensure students are adequately learning the material and submitting original work? (Complete our survey to tell us what you think about our episodes!) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In part two of this episode of The Everyday Scholar, Dr. Wally Boston, President Emeritus of APUS, continues offering his expertise and personal insight on how to help prospective university students by offering suggestions on how to best reduce the extremely high cost of furthering one's education in America. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Choosing a topic to research can be a challenge for doctoral students. In this episode, hear from AMU doctoral student, Isabelle Vladoiu, talking with her doctoral chair, Dr. Elise Rainer, about why she chose to research femicide in Latin America. Learn why femicide has wide-ranging social and global-security implications. Also learn her recommendations for students considering a doctoral degree and the important difference between an applied doctorate and a traditional Ph.D. program. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, President Emeritus of the American Public University System, Dr. Wally Boston, offers his expertise and personal insight on the crisis in higher education, how students can navigate their schooling, and the need for more vocational schools. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Investing portfolios led by women tend to perform better with lower defaults and better risk management. In this episode, Cynthia Gentile leads a discussion of The XX Edge, a new book focused on gender diverse decision-making. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Human trafficking is a billion-dollar industry and the second largest criminal activity in the world. In this episode, hear from doctoral student, Isabelle Vladiou, about her work educating people about how to identify human trafficking and safely report it. Also hear how human trafficking includes more than commercial sex and forced labor—it can include forced begging, organ trafficking, forced marriage and more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When AMU doctoral student Isabelle Vladoiu emigrated to the United States from Romania, she never dreamt that just a few years later she would receive not one but TWO Presidential Lifetime Achievement Awards. In this episode, hear why Isabelle founded the U.S. Institute of Diplomacy and Human Rights and her work to educate people around the world about human rights. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Delve into an adoptee's journey to discover her biological family. In this episode, APU's Dr. Bjorn Mercer talks to Roiann Baskin about her unique story and the heart-wrenching process of finding family. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Discover the bond between colonialism and the popularity of classical music. In this episode, APU's Dr. Jennifer Fisch-Ferguson explains the role colonialism played in the expansion of classical music influences across the globe. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Evolving your writing skills is integral to communicating well. In this episode, APU's Dr. Jennifer Fisch-Ferguson discusses the elements of good writing and how to develop your writing expertise. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

There are more than 500 million Spanish speakers in the world. In this episode, APU's Dr. Bjorn Mercer talks to faculty member Carolina Ghanem-Cameron about how the world is evolving and the Spanish language and culture are constantly evolving along with it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Reading works of literature considered rebellious and “outside the canon” of the time period can provide immense cultural insight. In the third and final part of this series, APU's Dr. Jaclyn Fowler talks to professor and author Dr. Jennifer Fisch-Ferguson about the semi-autobiographical book “Our Nig: or, Sketches from the Life of a Free Black” by Harriet Wilson published in 1859, but only uncovered in 1996. Learn what this book reveals about sexuality, religion, race, enslavement and more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

An in-depth exploration of critical thinking in the college sphere. In this episode, APU's Dr. Bjorn Mercer talks to James Lendvay about the role critical thinking plays in the college curriculum. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Discover the best ways to use social media tools to attract and engage audiences consistently. In this episode, APU's Dr. Bjorn Mercer talks to Dr. Aikyna Finch about how she developed her social media presence and following. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Russia's invasion of Ukraine continues to send shockwaves around the world. In this episode, APU's Dr. Karolina Kopczynski shares her personal story of growing up in communist Poland and sheds some light on the geopolitical turmoil that has affected the region for decades. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of "The Everyday Scholar," APU's Dr. Bjorn Mercer speaks to faculty member Martin Ponti about America's continuing hesitation to accept bilingualism – and the importance of changing the nation's direction. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.