On The Move

Kinesiology & Sports Management Department at Texas A&M University

Welcome to On The Move! The podcast about all of the amazing programs, facilities, research, staff, and students that are in the Kinesiology and Sport Management Department at Texas A&M. Listen on each episode to hear directly from the hands of the department working to create opportunities and further their field. Thank you for checking us out!

  1. JAN 29

    Inside KNSM’s Next Chapter

    In this Season 4 episode of On the Move from the Department of Kinesiology and Sport Management at Texas A&M University, host Chelsea Reber welcomes back Dr. Marlene Dixon, Department Head of KNSM, for an inside look at the year ahead. Dr. Dixon reflects on major faculty and student awards, KNSM’s growing global reputation, and why colleagues around the world want to know what is happening at Texas A&M.  She previews new research initiatives, including the thermoregulation lab focused on heat, performance, and safety in southern climates, ongoing work with first responders, and expanding efforts in sport data science that connect performance, fan experience, and participation trends. Dr. Dixon also shares updates on new faculty hires in kinesiology and sport management, from motor neuroscience and Parkinson’s research to strength and conditioning, fan engagement, and esports.  Listeners hear how KNSM students are gaining international experience through NASA collaborations, global youth sport for development projects, and study abroad trips to Europe, Africa, and Central and South America. Dr. Dixon closes with a message to prospective students about the many paths within KNSM, from coaching and sport management to aging, movement, and community impact.  To learn more about the Department of Kinesiology and Sport Management at Texas A&M University, visit https://knsm.tamu.edu/ Host: Chelsea Reber Guest: Dr. Marlene Dixon, Department Head of Kinesiology and Sport Management, Texas A&M University Timestamps(00:00 - 01:12) Introduction (01:12 - 03:31) Year at a Glance (03:31 - 05:53) New Thermoregulation Lab Launch  (05:54 - 06:41) First Responder Safety Research (06:42 - 07:23) Expanding Motor Neuroscience Team  (07:24 - 09:22) Strengthening Sport Management Faculty (09:23 - 10:50) Reputation, Culture, And Community (10:51 - 12:39) Sport Data Science Expansion (12:40 - 15:10) International Research And Travel (15:11 - 17:08) Global Perspective And Partnerships (17:09 - 18:31) PEP Gifts And Programs  (18:32 - 20:58) Opportunities Beyond Traditional Sport (20:59 - 21:39) Season Preview And Closing

    22 min
  2. 2025-11-04

    From Student to Faculty: Building the Next Generation of Exercise Physiologists

    Welcome back to On the Move, the podcast from the Department of Kinesiology and Sport Management at Texas A&M University. In this episode, host Chelsea Reber is joined by Dr. Steven Martin, Clinical Associate Professor at TAMU, to explore the critical intersection of exercise science and first responder health, as well as the health of the community. Dr. Martin shares his remarkable journey from master's student to faculty member at Texas A&M, spanning nearly three decades of dedication to cardiovascular health research. From life-saving early detection of heart disease to cutting-edge DEXA scan technology, Dr. Martin explains how their program has identified serious cardiovascular conditions before they became fatal. The discussion highlights the unique physiological demands faced by first responders—from sudden adrenaline spikes to extreme physical exertion while wearing heavy gear—and how proper screening can prevent line-of-duty cardiac events. Dr. Martin also discusses the invaluable hands-on learning opportunities for students, the newly formed Tactical Athlete Research Group (TAR), and exciting new research involving live fire simulations. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about protecting those who protect us, the power of real-world clinical experience in education, and how exercise science is literally saving lives in our community. To learn more about the Department of Kinesiology and Sport Management at TAMU, visit https://knsm.tamu.edu/  Host: Chelsea Reber Guest: Dr. Steven Martin, Clinical Associate Professor at Texas A&M Timestamps: (00:00 - 1:00) Intro (1:01 - 2:32) Stevens history and current position with TAMU (2:33 - 4:07) First Responder testing program (4:08 - 5:19) DEXA testing (5:20 - 6:44) Results and trends of testing (6:45 - 8:51) Getting the public involved in testing (8:52 - 9:51) Stress and adrenaline with law enforcement/first responders (9:52 - 12:57) Getting TAMU students involved (12:58 - 15:35) Achieving teacher of the year with students (15:36 - 17:11) Pride in student success (17:12 - 18:17) Advise for potential students (18:18 - 21:20) Steven’s vision for the future of exercise physiology (21:21 - 21:44) Outro

    22 min
  3. 2025-10-03

    Mentors, Movement, and Momentum: The Aggie Kinesiology Experience

    Welcome back to On the Move, the podcast from the Department of Kinesiology and Sport Management at Texas A&M University. In this episode, host Chelsea Reber is joined by Dr. Alyssa Locklear, Associate Department Head for Undergraduate Programs, along with kinesiology students Ashlyn Norton and Curtis Gatewood for a dynamic conversation on mentorship, opportunity, and the many paths to success in the field of kinesiology. Alyssa shares how the department is supporting students both in and out of the classroom while encouraging them to explore the breadth of career possibilities beyond the traditional tracks. Ashlyn reflects on the importance of putting yourself out there and connecting with mentors, while Curtis emphasizes how something as simple as a conversation can unlock major opportunities for growth. From strength and conditioning to leadership, mentorship, and professional development, this episode offers an inside look into what makes Texas A&M’s kinesiology program such a powerful launching pad for future leaders in health, sport, and beyond. Tune in to hear how Aggie students are building meaningful relationships, gaining real-world experience, and shaping their futures through the power of connection and community. To learn more about the Department of Kinesiology and Sport Management at TAMU, visit https://knsm.tamu.edu/  Host: Chelsea Reber Guests: Alyssa Locklear, Associate Department Head for Undergraduate Programs, Texas A&M University Ashlyn Norton, Kinesiology Student, Texas A&M University Curtis Gatewood, Kinesiology Student, Texas A&M University Timestamps: (00:00 - 01:49) Introduction (01:50 - 02:48) Balancing Teaching and Admin (02:49 - 04:30) Meeting Ashlyn and Curtis (04:31 - 06:17) Being a Mentor for Incoming Students (06:18 - 08:24) An Average Day for Curtis (08:25 - 09:52) Getting into Strength and Conditioning (09:53 - 12:02) Growing Outside of the Classroom (12:03 - 13:54) Different Paths of Student Success (13:55 - 18:11) Overlooked Parts of Kinesiology (18:12 - 20:46) Favorite Parts of the Program (20:47 - 22:59) Upcoming Events (23:00 - 26:51) Advice for New and Current Students (26:52 - 27:28) Closing

    27 min
  4. 2025-09-16

    From Para Athletics to Virtual Arenas: Expanding the Playing Field

    Welcome back to On the Move, the podcast from the Department of Kinesiology and Sport Management at Texas A&M University. In this episode, host Chelsea Reber is joined by Dr. Craig Fulk, Visiting Assistant Professor at Texas A&M, to explore the intersection of innovation, inclusion, and the evolving world of sport. Dr. Fulk shares his passion for para athletics, his own journey with cycling, and the growing influence of virtualization in sport—from virtual cycling to tech-driven training methods. The conversation highlights how emerging technologies are transforming participation and expanding access, particularly for underrepresented communities. Dr. Fulk also emphasizes the importance of empowering students to lead the next wave of change, especially in advancing accessibility and para sport initiatives. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about the future of inclusive sport, the role of education in driving innovation, and how today's students are shaping tomorrow's solutions. To learn more about the Department of Kinesiology and Sport Management at TAMU, visit https://knsm.tamu.edu/  Host: Chelsea Reber Guest: Dr. Craig Fulk, Visiting Assistant Professor, Texas A&M University Timestamps: (00:00 - 01:03) Introduction (01:04 - 02:41) The Calling to Para Athletics (02:42 - 04:21) Dr. Fulk’s Journey with Cycling (04:22 - 05:18) Sport Business Planning Course Preview (05:19 - 05:56) Keeping Class Current and Applicable (05:57 - 09:32) Emerging Adult Research (09:33 - 10:39) Misconceptions About Para Athletes  (10:40 - 12:18) Inclusion and Accessibility (12:19 - 14:23) Evolution in Inclusion (14:24 - 16:12) The Virtualization of Sports  (16:13 - 17:56) Supporting More Inclusive Practices (17:57 - 19:20) Expanding Access to Sport (19:21 - 22:19) Message to Students (22:20 - 22:41) Closing

    23 min
  5. 2025-08-26

    Breaking Misconceptions: An Inside Look at the Importance of Athletic Trainers

    Welcome back to On the Move, the podcast from Texas A&M University’s Department of Kinesiology and Sport Management! In this episode, host Chelsea Reber is joined by Clinical Associate Professor of Athletic Training, Dr. Tony Boucher, to discuss athletic training and the common misconceptions surrounding the profession. Dr. Boucher dives into defining what an athletic trainer is, the misconceptions that often surround the role, and the research aspect of the profession. He speaks passionately about the academic side of athletic training, as well as his dedication to his students and the knowledge he is able to share with them. Dr. Boucher offers insightful commentary on the broad field of athletic training, including emerging trends and new technologies. To learn more about the Department of Kinesiology and Sport Management at TAMU, visit https://knsm.tamu.edu/  Host: Chelsea Reber Guest: Dr. Tony Boucher (Clinical Associate Professor of Athletic Training) Timestamps: [00:00 - 01:00]: Intro  [01:00 - 03:05]: Misconceptions in Athletic Training  [03:06 - 04:27]: Defining what an Athletic trainer is  [04:28 - 07:10]: Bridging the gap between education and real world experience  [07:11 - 10:00]: Other challenges Athletic Trainers face  [10:01 - 13:09]: Discussing Dr. Boucher’s research  [13:10 - 15:45]: Trends in the athletic world  [15:46 - 18:03]: Making complex clinical concepts accessible  [18:04 - 19:09]: Student pathways  [19:10 - 22:49]: What are different career paths for Athletic Trainers [22:50 - 23:50]: Evolving student skills  [23:51 - 25:06]: Advice for future TAMU students  [25:07 - 25:25]: Outro

    25 min
  6. 2025-08-12

    From Tennis to Pickleball Pro: Mary Beth Henthorne's Journey at Texas A&M

    Welcome back to On the Move, the podcast from Texas A&M University’s Department of Kinesiology and Sport Management! In this episode, host Chelsea Reber is joined by Instructional Associate Professor, Mary Beth Henthorne to discuss her experience building the Pickleball program at Texas A&M from the ground up, all while battling breast cancer.  In this episode, Mary Beth dives into not only her own experience making the switch from tennis to pickleball, but how the students' passion for the sport has grown dramatically over the last decade. She speaks passionately about her adoration for her students, and how she believes that engaging with Pickleball can have an incredible impact on their lives. As Mary Beth approaches her retirement, she speaks on some of the best memories with the sport, and her hope for the future of Pickleball across all of higher education.  To learn more about the Department of Kinesiology and Sport Management at TAMU, visit https://knsm.tamu.edu/  Host: Chelsea Reber Guest: Mary Beth Henthorne, Instructional Associate Professor, Texas A&M Timestamps: (00:00 - 01:18) Intro (01:19 - 02:55) The Growth of Pickleball at Texas A&M (02:56 - 04:15) Behind the Scenes of Growing the Pickleball Program (04:16 - 04:42) Opportunities to Get Involved (04:43 - 07:18) Mary Beth’s Experience as a Professional Player (07:19 - 08:00) Balancing Teaching and Pro Sports (08:01 - 09:56) Incorporating Professional Play in the Classroom (09:57 - 11:44) Mary Beth's Battle with Breast Cancer (11:45 - 12:40) Mary Beth’s Students Support with Her Battle (12:41 - 15:07) Recent Developments in the Sport (15:08 - 17:02) Getting Youth Involved (17:02 - 17:43) The Community Aspect of Pickleball (17:44 - 20:11) Most Memorable Moments (20:12 - 21:16) Upcoming Retirement (21:27 - 23:54) Hope for the Future (23:55 - 25:25) Life and Pickleball After Retirement (25:26 - 25:54) Closing

    26 min
  7. 2025-07-29

    From Sweat to Science: Exploring Thermoregulation at Texas A&M

    Welcome back to On the Move, the podcast from the Department of Kinesiology and Sport Management at Texas A&M University. In this episode, host Chelsea Reber is joined by Dr. Steve Riechman and Dr. Jim Fluckey to discuss one of the most innovative developments in human performance research at Texas A&M: the new Tactical Human Performance and Thermoregulation Lab. Dr. Riechman shares the vision behind the Southern Heat Initiative, a groundbreaking study that uses artificial intelligence and large population data to better understand individual heat tolerance and predict heat response in real-time. Dr. Fluckey explains how the lab’s state-of-the-art environmental chamber offers hands-on learning for students and research opportunities that extend far beyond exercise science—impacting fields like wearable tech, agriculture, and public safety. From supporting military and first responders to training future researchers, this lab is set to become a vital hub for applied performance science. Tune in to learn how this cutting-edge facility is opening doors for interdisciplinary innovation and preparing the next generation of leaders in kinesiology and beyond. To learn more about the Department of Kinesiology and Sport Management at TAMU, visit https://knsm.tamu.edu/  Host: Chelsea Reber Guests: Dr. Steve Riechman, Associate Professor, Texas A&M University Dr. Jim Fluckey, Associate Dean for Research, Texas A&M University   Timestamps: (00:00 - 02:34) Introduction (02:35 - 05:08) Motives for Coming to A&M (05:09 - 08:10) New Tactical Human Performance and Thermoregulation Lab (08:11 - 09:28) Factors for Heat Tolerance (09:29 - 10:32) Creating the Ideal Lab (10:33 - 12:21) Benefits for Undergraduates and Graduates (12:22 - 13:08) Benefits for Military, Fire, Police, and First Responders (13:09 - 17:59) Support from the College and Wide Range of Chamber Usage (18:00 - 18:32) Grand Opening (18:33 - 20:20) Chamber Specs (20:21 - 20:52) Final Thoughts (20:53 - 21:20) Closing

    21 min
  8. 2025-07-15

    Building Champions: The Keys to Success in Sports Management

    Welcome back to On the Move, the podcast from Texas A&M University’s Department of Kinesiology and Sport Management! In this episode, host Chelsea Reber is joined by Professor of the Practice Becky Geyer to discuss leadership, mentorship, and the evolving world of sports education. With decades of experience in coaching and sports management, Becky shares valuable insights on what it takes to succeed in the field and how students can prepare for careers in the fast-paced sports industry. Becky dives into the importance of hands-on experience, the business side of athletics, and how innovations in sports education are shaping future professionals. She also emphasizes the value of core leadership skills, building trust, and taking advantage of unexpected opportunities. Whether you’re a student, an aspiring sports professional, or a seasoned industry leader, this episode is packed with wisdom to help you navigate and thrive in the world of sports management. To learn more about the Department of Kinesiology and Sport Management at TAMU, visit https://knsm.tamu.edu/  Host: Chelsea Reber Guest: Becky Geyer, Professor of the Practice Timestamps: (00:00 - 01:30) Introduction (01:31 - 01:58) Having Hands On Experience (01:59 - 04:03) Sports Leadership in Various Environments (04:04 - 07:03) Building a Capstone Program (07:04 - 09:25) Mentorship for Students (09:26 - 11:34) The Business Side of Sports (11:35 - 15:36) Innovations in Sport Education (15:37 - 17:02) Becky’s Coaching Background (17:03 - 17:57) Challenges in Building a Champion Team (17:58 - 18:53) Crucial Skills for Students (18:54 - 20:22) Unexpected Opportunities for Students (20:23 - 21:07) Advice for Students Starting in Sport Management (21:08 - 21:35) Closing

    22 min

About

Welcome to On The Move! The podcast about all of the amazing programs, facilities, research, staff, and students that are in the Kinesiology and Sport Management Department at Texas A&M. Listen on each episode to hear directly from the hands of the department working to create opportunities and further their field. Thank you for checking us out!