Stories of Change & Creativity

How innovation is transforming Texas—and where the biggest opportunities are emerging. In this episode of Stories of Change and Creativity, I had the chance to talk with entrepreneur Justin McKenzie, host of The Building Texas Show. We explore innovation across Texas—from small towns to major cities—and discuss workforce development and emerging industries. Justin shares insights from his career journey, along with lessons from interviewing leaders across the state. This episode is perfect for anyone interested in innovation and career opportunities in Texas. You’ll Learn Texas State University Key Takeaways About Justin Justin McKenzie is an entrepreneur and host of The Building Texas Show, a podcast focused on highlighting innovation and economic development across Texas. He is a two-time Texas State graduate with experience in manufacturing, startups, and workforce strategy. Follow Justin McKenzie on LinkedIn Visit The Building Texas Show website Subscribe on YouTubeThis interview was recorded at Live Oak Studios on the campus of Texas State University. Did you enjoy this episode? send me a text! Do you have an idea for a guest interview? Please let me know. Check out my TEDx talk. Why you should take action - then figure it out.

What does it really mean to solve a problem in the age of AI? In this episode of Stories of Change and Creativity, I sat down with Dr. Aniruddha Bora, assistant professor of computer science at Texas State University, to explore how artificial intelligence is transforming the way we think about problem solving. I met Dr. Bora when I moderated a panel at South by Southwest (SXSW) at Texas House as part of the Texas State University Global Innovation Roundup. From his early interest in science in India to his work in applied mathematics, Dr. Bora shares how interdisciplinary thinking can lead to meaningful innovation. I found Bora to be smart, kind and a joy to be around. His energy is contagious. Key Takeaways Why This Episode Matters As AI becomes more integrated into everyday life, the ability to think critically and solve meaningful problems is more important than ever. This episode offers a fresh perspective on how curiosity and creativity can drive real-world impact. Learn more about Dr. Aniruddha Bora, assistant professor of computer science at Texas State University, and his work in artificial intelligence and real-world applications here. This podcast episode was recorded at the Live Oak Podcast Studio at Texas State University. 🎧 Enjoyed this episode? Please share it with a colleague, student, or friend who’s interested in AI and creative problem solving. Did you enjoy this episode? send me a text! Stories that Spark Change and Creativity Join me for conversations with students, artists, professors, entrepreneurs, writers and everyday change makers. Do you have an idea for a guest interview? Please let me know. Check out my TEDx talk. Why you should take action - then figure it out. #change #creativity #personalgrowth #creativemindset

How does experiential learning prepare college students for real-world careers? At Texas State, journalism students don’t just study reporting — they do it. They cover major news events and interview real people. Students report on impactful stories like the aftermath of the school shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde and the 2026 deadly Central Texas flooding. In this episode of Stories of Change and Creativity, Judy Oskam talks with Dino Chiecchi, associate professor of practice at Texas State University. He's a veteran journalist with more than 30 years of newsroom experience. During our conversation, we explore how classroom instruction meets professional practice. We talk about why mentorship and real-world experience matter in higher education. What You’ll Learn • Why experiential learning helps students build professional skills • How expert faculty elevate classroom learning • The importance of mentoring in developing confidence and resilience • How students can publish meaningful work before they graduate • Why telling the stories about real people matters The articles written by Texas State University students were published in the Austin American Statesman and the Texas Standard. Check out the SJMC website for more information. You can learn more about Professor Chiecchi's book here: Josue: A Young Man's Life Lost to Suicide. Did you enjoy this episode? send me a text! Stories that Spark Change and Creativity Join me for conversations with students, artists, professors, entrepreneurs, writers and everyday change makers. You can listen to Stories of Change and Creativity on all major platforms. Do you have an idea for a guest interview? Please let me know. Check out my TEDx talk. Why you should take action - then figure it out. #change #creativity #personalgrowth #creativemindset

If you’re a high-achieving professional who feels successful everywhere except your health, this episode of Stories of Change and Creativity might be for you. I can certainly relate! Many driven professionals excel in their careers but struggle with health in midlife because they apply the same optimization mindset that works at work to their bodies. In this episode, Judy Oskam talks with Tony Sherock, Certified Personal Trainer— Health Behavior Specialist and Tiny Habits® Certified Coach. He explains how identity-based habits can create lasting health change. This conversation reframes health as part of who you are, not another project to manage. You’ll walk away with practical insights you can apply immediately to rebuild your health in a way that lasts. What You’ll Learn • Why high-achieving professionals often struggle with health in midlife • Why traditional diets and fitness plans fail busy professionals over 40 • The role identity plays in health behavior change • How tiny, adaptable habits create lasting health improvements About Tony Sherock Tony Sherock is a Health Behavior Specialist, Certified Personal Trainer, and Tiny Habits® Certified Coach. He is the founder of Habits To Health – Tony Sherock, LLC, and works with busy midlife professionals (40+) who are juggling demanding careers, family life, and caregiving responsibilities. Tony helps high achievers rebuild their health by shifting away from fast, optimized effort toward slow, sustainable habit change that fits real life. His work is informed by a background in broadcasting and higher education, as well as his own personal health transformation—from being pre-diabetic and on multiple medications to creating lasting change through behavior science. https://www.habitstohealthcoach.com/ You can find Tony Sherock on Facebook, Instagram, & Skool: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1605709083060117 https://www.instagram.com/tonysherock_habits_to_health/ https://www.skool.com/the-habit-hub Did you enjoy this episode? send me a text! Stories that Spark Change and Creativity Join me for conversations with students, artists, professors, entrepreneurs, writers and everyday change makers. You can listen to Stories of Change and Creativity on all major platforms. Do you have an idea for a guest interview? Please let me know. Check out my TEDx talk. Why you should take action - then figure it out.

If you’re a fan of Outlander, the historical fiction series set in Scotland, like I am, this episode is for you. In this conversation, I talk with Dr. Alexandra “Alex” Dold, a literary scholar and historian known as the “Doctor of Outlander,” about her academic journey and career path. We discuss how historical fiction can become public history — inviting people to connect with history beyond textbooks and classrooms. During this episode, you’ll learn how Outlander and other historical fiction can build bridges between fans, public audiences, and academic inquiry. Alex also shares insights from her own path — from studying literature in Germany to completing a PhD in Scotland on Outlander as public history. You'll hear how that journey reshaped her understanding of how stories can make reading and history more accessible for everyone. What You’ll Learn in This Episode OutlanderaccessibleWhy This Matters Historical fiction often gets dismissed as “just entertainment.” Alex’s work reframes it as public history. It's a way that everyday readers and viewers connect with the past and develop meaningful questions. This episode invites listeners to: OutlanderGuest Info Dr. Alexandra “Alex” Dold is a literary scholar and historian whose research focuses on historical fiction as public history. She completed her PhD in history examining the Outlander novels at the University of the Highlands and Islands, Centre for History, Dornoch. Dr. Dold explored the role of Outlander in shaping how people engage with history beyond traditional academic spaces. You can find out more about Dr. Dold and her scholarship below: https://alexdold.com/ Outlander Dr. Diana Gabaldon is the author of the award-winning The Outlander series. You can learn more about about the series and Diana here. The final season of Outlander airs in March 2026 on STARZ. I'd love to hear from you - send me a text! Hi Friend - Thanks for listening! Check out my TEDx talk. Why you should take action - then figure it out.

In this music-filled episode of Stories of Change and Creativity, Judy Oskam sits down with singer-songwriter and education leader Dr. Candace Hastings to explore what it means to live a creative life of purpose. They talk about identity, community, and meaning. Along the way, you’ll hear excerpts from Candace’s new album, including “Soft Place to Land” and “Horses I Left Behind,” songs shaped by memory, place, and belonging. Dr. Hastings is the Associate Vice Provost for the Center for Teaching, Learning, and Scholarship at Texas State University, an acclaimed singer-songwriter and a tribal member of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation. Her Potawatomi name is Mskwagishgokwe [Red Sky Woman]. Candace shares how being adopted and later discovering her Indigenous heritage helped her come “full circle,” shaping both her leadership and her songwriting. This episode features excerpts of Candace’s music, including “Soft Place to Land” and “Horses I Left Behind.” What You’ll Learn in This Episode mno-bmadzewen - Creativity and Letting the Song Lead Candace describes her musical genre as Americana—and says each song “tells her what it needs to be.” Sometimes that means swing (as in “Lone Star Christmas”) and sometimes it means a fully layered studio production. The song “Horses I Left Behind,” was written during Candace’s trips to Oklahoma where she deepened her connection to her Potawatomi roots. She told me that she later learned she drove past the cemetery where her grandmother was buried. This gives special meaning to the song. Candace has a new album coming out in spring 2026, featuring the following songs: You can find out more about Candace Hastings and her music here: https://www.candacehastings.com/ Hi Friend - Thanks for listening! Check out my TEDx talk. Why you should take action - then figure it out.

What do you say when someone you love is dying—and you know your time together is limited? In this practical and compassionate episode, Judy Oskam talks with Dr. Maureen Keeley, a leading researcher on end-of-life communication, from Texas State University. Dr. Maureen Keeley offers a research-based framework for anyone caring for an aging parent, supporting a loved one through illness, or anticipating loss. Listeners will learn what matters most in end-of-life conversations and how small, everyday moments can become the memories that last a lifetime. What You’ll Learn in This Episode you The Six Themes of Final Conversations (Research-Based) Dr. Maureen Keeley is a Professor of Interpersonal Communication at Texas State University. She has studied end-of-life communication for more than two decades. You can find Dr. Keeley and Dr. Yingling's book below: The Good Goodbye: The Transformative Power of Conversation at the End of Life by Maureen P. Kelley, Ph.D. and Julie M. Yingling, Ph.D. Hi Friend - Thanks for listening! Check out my TEDx talk. Why you should take action - then figure it out.

January is often framed as a month of restriction—Dry January, less sugar, less indulgence, less everything. But what if January wasn’t about giving things up? What if it was about trying? In this Try January episode, Judy Oskam weaves together powerful insights from past conversations to explore how meaningful change begins. Experts comment on building identity capital and setting goals, mentorship, creativity, adventure, and kindness. This episode reminds us that change often starts with a choice… and the courage to try. What You’ll Learn in This Episode tryingFeatured Voices Dr. Meg Jayidentity capitalinterview here.Caroline Adams Miller2025 interviewDr. Kelly Damphousse100th podcast episodeWendy Conklin find it here.Dr. Cliff Redfordat this linkJamin OchoaAngie OlmosScotland mini series here.If this episode resonated with you, please share it with someone who might need encouragement to try something new this January. Thanks for listening—and here’s to making it a Try January Hi Friend - Thanks for listening! Check out my TEDx talk. Why you should take action - then figure it out.

What is home? Is it a place, a memory, a landscape—or a journey? In this episode, Judy Oskam explores the transformative meaning of home with Amy Denet Deal. She's the founder of 4 Kinship, Indigenous Futures Forever, and the Diné Skate Garden Project. Amy’s story is one of remarkable courage and clarity. In her mid-50s, she left the corporate fashion world and returned to her Navajo roots. Her journey home reveals how healing and creativity intersect in powerful ways. In this episode, Judy and Amy talk about adoption and culture. They both share an adoption connection. Returning to Her Roots Healing and Identity From Fashion Executive to Indigenous Fashion Leader 4 Kinship Creating Spaces for the Next Generation Memorable Quote “Home to me is a feeling of calmness and clarity. Coming back to my homelands quieted the noise and helped me understand exactly why I’m here.” - Amy Denet Deal A Reflection for You Judy closes the episode with a question for listeners: What does home mean to you? Is it a place, a person, a memory—or a journey you're still traveling? Photo by Shaun Price. Hi Friend - Thanks for listening! Check out my TEDx talk. Why you should take action - then figure it out.

What if celebration isn’t something “extra,” but something essential to living a meaningful, connected life? If you're like me, I'm always looking for reasons to celebrate and enjoy life. In this episode of Stories of Change and Creativity, I sit down with Dr. R. Jon McGee—anthropologist, author, and longtime Texas State University professor—at the Live Oak Podcast Studio to explore the topic of celebration. For more than forty years, Dr. McGee lived with and learned from Maya communities in southern Mexico. He explained how rituals create order in chaotic times and help people navigate change. Inside Maya Ritual Life Professor McGee takes us inside ceremonies shaped by rainforest ecosystems and centuries of tradition— He reveals how metaphors woven into healing incantations—birds, winds, heat, and fever—carry cultural memory and symbolic meaning. Why Rituals Matter in Our Everyday Lives From Christmas and communion to Thanksgiving tables and graduation, Professor McGee helps us see how our own traditions carry histories and stories forward. These familiar symbols—colors, foods, candles, music—are anchors that help us mark time and feel connected. How to Bring More Celebration Into Your Life If you’re craving more meaning, we discuss some practical ways to create moments of celebration: How do you celebrate? I’d love to hear. If you enjoyed this episode subscribe, share with a friend who might need to celebrate more often, and leave a review. Tell me the one ritual you’d never give up. Learn more about Dr. R. Jon McGee here. Recorded at Live Oak Studios on the campus of Texas State University. Hi Friend - Thanks for listening! Check out my TEDx talk. Why you should take action - then figure it out.

How do sports, culture, and communication shape who we are? In this episode, Judy Oskam talks with University of Alabama Sports Scholar Dr. Kenon Brown. Dr. Brown is a professor of advertising and public relations, co-director of the Beyond Sports Initiative, and co-author of the book - The United States of Sport: Media Framing and the Influence of the Intersection of Sports and American Culture. During our conversation we explore how sports reflect American society, how branding and communication shape identity, and how career pivots can open doors to purpose and passion. From the rise of women’s sports to the connection between hip-hop and the NBA, Dr. Brown offers a powerful look at creativity and change through the lens of sport. In this episode you'll learn: - The 'perfect storm' moment that connected passion and purpose, resulting in a career change - How sports mirror American culture — from equality in pay to pop culture and hip-hop - Why authenticity and consistency matter in personal branding, especially for NIL athletes - The powerful link between sports, mental health, and communication - What’s next in global sports: the 2026 World Cup and 2028 Olympics Quotes - Dr. Kenon Brown “It was the perfect storm — the right people at the right time helped me make the pivot.” “Sports are a microcosm of society. Every major cultural shift is reflected on the field or court.” “Be authentic. Be consistent. That’s the foundation of a strong personal brand.” “The intersection of communication, culture, and sports is where real change happens.” Resources and Links - The United States of Sport: Media Framing and the Influence of the Intersection of Sports and American Culture by Kenon Brown, Josh Dickhaus, and Mia Long Anderson - Beyond Sports Initiative, University of Alabama Dr. Brown kicked off a university lecture series in sports media at Texas State University, coordinated by Professor and Regents' Teacher of Advertising Dr. Mike Devlin. This interview was recorded at Live Oak Studios, School of Journalism and Mass Communication, Texas State University. Hi Friend - Thanks for listening! Check out my TEDx talk. Why you should take action - then figure it out.

What’s your relationship with money? Do you worry about having enough? Does money guide all of your decisions? In this episode of Stories of Change and Creativity, I talk with Mary Liz Burns about the psychology of money. She has more than two decades of experience in personal finance communications and media. Mary Liz has an MBA with a focus on financial psychology and is a certified senior advisor. After a successful career in corporate communications and public relations — including 22 years with AARP — Mary Liz realized the missing piece in most money conversations: the human connection. Now, she helps people understand their personal “money stories” and develop healthier, more compassionate relationships with money. In this episode, you’ll learn: Quotes “My goal from now until the day I die is to reduce the fear and shame we have around money — and to help people have open, honest conversations, starting with themselves.” — Mary Liz Burns “Financial education alone is not enough to change behavior. We have to bring the human piece to it.” — Mary Liz Burns Resources & Links Money Scripts Test Mary Liz Burnshttps://www.marylizburns.money/ Note: This content is not intended as specific legal or financial advice, and listeners should consider their individual circumstances when applying this information and to seek professional assistance if needed. Hi Friend - Thanks for listening! Check out my TEDx talk. Why you should take action - then figure it out.

For our 100th episode, I sit down with Dr. Kelly Damphousse, the 10th president of Texas State University. A sociologist by training, President Damphousse talks candidly about the midnight moment that set the tone for his presidency. He shares his personal journey – from growing up in a trailer court with no plans for college to becoming a university president. We also discuss the university’s momentum — from a campus master plan to the research trajectory toward R1 and a move to the Pac-12 that reshapes TXST’s national profile. In this episode you’ll learn: Quotes - Dr.Kelly Damphousse “You belong here.”“If someone poured into you, your job is to pay it forward.”“I’m duty-bound to show up — not for me, but because the presidency matters to people.” Hi Friend - Thanks for listening! Check out my TEDx talk. Why you should take action - then figure it out.

Do you know your values? You might think you know your values, but are you living your values, right now? In this solo episode, Judy Oskam reflects on a recent experience she shared with her daughter, Danielle. Together, they attended the Becoming You intensive led by Dr. Suzy Welch at the NYU Stern School of Business. The New York workshop centered on values and purpose. It encouraged participants to explore what matters most and to design a life that aligns with those priorities. Judy shares insights about tools such as the Values Bridge assessment, the Enneagram, and various aptitude tests. She also includes a short soundbite with Dr. Welch, about advice for new graduates. Later, Dani offers her perspective on how what the process revealed to her. In this Episode You’ll Learn Values BridgeQuotes “Self-discovery isn’t a one-time thing. It’s really an ongoing journey.” – Judy Oskam “You have to know your values. You can’t be guessing.” – Dr. Suzy Welch “The more you know about yourself, the better you are able to navigate through undiscovered things.” – Danielle Oskam I hope this episode encourages you to keep learning, reflect on your values, and stay open to growth. Thanks for listening! Resources and Links Suzy Welch – NYU Stern Initiative on Purpose and FlourishingFour Horsemen Quiz – a free tool Becoming Youprogram and methodology Hi Friend - Check out my TEDx talk. Why you should take action - then figure it out.

What does it really mean to be free? In this episode of Stories of Change and Creativity, Judy Oskam sits down with Christian Ray Flores—a high-performance coach, entrepreneur, and author of the Little Book of Big Reasons to Love America: A Love Letter from an Immigrant. Christian has lived through revolutions and the fall of the Soviet Union. From that perspective, he offers a powerful take on the American spirit and freedom. He also shares how living your brand and leaning into your unique expertise can open the door and make a real impact. In this episode you’ll learn Contact Christian Ray Flores Website10 Reasons to Love AmericaLinkedInInstagramX Hi Friend - If you’re enjoying Stories of Change and Creativity, make sure to follow, rate, and leave a 5-star review—it helps more people discover the show. Check out my TEDx talk. Why you should take action - then figure it out.

In this powerful episode, Ontario veterinarian Dr. Cliff Redford shows us what it truly means to live with passion and a sense of adventure. He's called the Worldwide Vet. Dr. Redford travels the world combining his veterinary practice with global volunteer work. Over the years, he has helped animals and communities in Jamaica, India, Panama, India and Ukraine. Dr. Cliff's journey proves that change is something to embrace no matter what your age. Whether he's performing surgeries in a war zone, learning to surf, or starting boxing at age 48, Dr. Redford lives life to the fullest. He reminds us it’s never too late to reinvent yourself, take risks. In This Episode You'll Learn -Why embracing change fuels growth and resilience -How travel and service can deepen passion for your profession -The art of becoming “comfortable with being uncomfortable” -Why adventure—no matter your age—is the key to life -The importance of kindness in all forms Key Takeaways Get comfortable with being uncomfortable. Take a risk to discover a full lifeDr. Cliff Redford’s Motto "Be kind to animals, be kind to each other, and be kind to yourself." Visit the Dr. Cliff's site: drcliff.ca Dr. Cliff on Instagram instagram.com/drcliffworldwidevet Dr. Cliff on Facebook facebook.com/drcliffworldwidevet Twitter - X x.com/vet905 Hi Friend - If you’re enjoying Stories of Change and Creativity, make sure to follow, rate, and leave a 5-star review—it helps more people discover the show. Check out my TEDx talk. Why you should take action - then figure it out.

Why are companies firing Gen Z employees — and what can be done to help them succeed? In August, I attended the 2025 Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication conference in San Francisco. My colleague, Dr. Nandini Bhalla of Texas State University, led a stellar panel titled “Why are companies firing Gen Z employees? Workforce Strategies and Solutions for PR’s Next Generation.” The panel featured an all-star lineup of experts: Caitlin Haskins10Fold CommunicationsMichelle GaleyJeffrey RantaCaitlin Cieslik-MiskimenNandini BhallaAfter the panel, I pulled out my iPhone and asked Caitlin Haskins a couple of questions about what she sees in the workplace. In this short interview, Caitlin shared practical strategies that every Gen Z professional can use to thrive in today’s workplace. Caitlin's tips are clear and actionable. Listeners will walk away with 3 strategies they can use immediately. ReliabilityProactive communicationGrowth mindsetYou can learn more about Caitlin Haskins from her LinkedIn profile and in this Ragan PR Daily article. Hi Friend - If you’re enjoying Stories of Change and Creativity, make sure to follow, rate, and leave a 5-star review—it helps more people discover the show. Check out my TEDx talk. Why you should take action - then figure it out.

On this episode I talk with Christine Blosdale – expert authority coach and podcaster – about how to overcome imposter syndrome and establish yourself as a leader in your field. Christine offers real-world strategies to boost your confidence and elevate your personal brand. Christine had a challenging childhood and it taught her resilience and the power of voice. Her mom was a single mother who worked nights. Christine's mother instilled a knowingness in her that her opinion mattered. You'll learn more about her background during our interview. Whether you’re a business leader or creative professional, this conversation is packed with tools to help you own your expertise. My Takeaways 1. Move Beyond Imposter Syndrome 2. Build a Professional Media Kit 3. Be Easy to Feature 4. Reach the Right Audience 5. Choose Authenticity Over Perfection 6. Visibility Matters 💬 “If you’re not seen and heard, you’re not hired.” – Christine Blosdale 📌 Resources & Links ExpertAuthorityCoach.comjudyoskam.com Hi Friend - If you’re enjoying Stories of Change and Creativity, make sure to follow, rate, and leave a 5-star review—it helps more people discover the show. Check out my TEDx talk. Why you should take action - then figure it out.

In this short solo episode, I share some thoughts about my study abroad experience in Scotland. It pushed me and my students out of our comfort zone, but that was a very good thing. I taught one of the first Edinburgh hub classes for Texas State University based at Queen Margaret University. Our hub programs are short-term study abroad experiences where students earn credit while spending 3-weeks living and learning overseas. Takeaways • Students connected with each other while developing deeper connections with themselves • Examples of Transformative Learning Theory • Students learned about course content and the local community • Freedom to explore. Students visited Edinburgh (6 minutes by train) and coastal villages like North Berwick • New experiences built confidence and positive self-esteem Homework: Choose one way to step into something new this week. What surprised you the last time you tried something new? How did you grow from the experience? Want to hear the real story? You can listen to the podcast interviews featuring my students here. They are fantastic! Hi Friend - If you’re enjoying Stories of Change and Creativity, make sure to follow, rate, and leave a 5-star review—it helps more people discover the show. Check out my TEDx talk. Why you should take action - then figure it out.

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 change, challenges, and career pivots—across countries, cultures, 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 step at a time. “I was self-conscious about having three degrees and not much experience, but now I see every part of that journey helped me get here.” Bety opens up about adapting to life abroad, overcoming self-doubt, and learning to say yes—even when the path was unclear. This candid conversation explores what it means to build a career through risk, resilience, and a commitment to lifelong learning. Key Takeaways • Growing up as a diplomat's daughter gave Bety the skills to adapt • Studying journalism provided a foundation, but an internship revealed her true path • Balancing perfectionism with practical experience helped her prioritize opportunities outside the classroom • Learning to embrace uncertainty and recognize that career paths don't need to be linear • Overcoming imposter syndrome and building confidence is important • Using international experience as a strength rather than seeing it as a limitation • There's a constant challenge to maintain brand consistency while reflecting the university community “Even if you don't get it right the first time, that is part of the process.” — Bety Téllez Mora 🎧 Tune in to hear how taking initiative, embracing uncertainty, and saying yes can lead to a career filled with purpose and possibility. Hi Friend - If you’re enjoying Stories of Change and Creativity, make sure to follow, rate, and leave a 5-star review—it helps more people discover the show. Check out my TEDx talk. Why you should take action - then figure it out.