Degrees of Success Podcast

University Of Phoenix
  • 5.0 (4)
  • Self-Improvement
  • Updated Semiweekly

Behind every college degree is a story. At University of Phoenix, those stories often include a few twists that teach some powerful life lessons. Join us as we sit down with University of Phoenix alumni to discuss their journeys to success, including the adversity, the triumph and the insights you can apply to your own life and career. The stories of accomplishments of these incredible alumni will be shared through both video format on the University of Phoenix YouTube channel and in audio format in all the places you get your podcasts. Tune in for stories of how online students reached their educational dreams and hear their insights on career success.

  1. 5d ago

    Leadership Lessons from a Wireless Technology CEO Jim Bradfield EP 44

    Leadership is about more than expertise. It is about building teams, developing trust, embracing lifelong learning, and helping others solve problems that seem impossible. In this episode, leadership takes center stage as Jim Bradfield shares lessons from a career spanning wireless communications, entrepreneurship, technology innovation, and education. Based on the episode transcript. In this video, we explain leadership through the lens of technology innovation and business growth, including how collaboration, continuous learning, and collective intelligence help leaders navigate change, build successful teams, and drive long-term results. Jim Bradfield, CEO of NAS Wireless and University of Phoenix MBA alumnus, discusses how a family legacy in telecommunications led him into the wireless industry, how earning his MBA strengthened his leadership capabilities, and why the ability to learn, adapt, and work with experts has been critical throughout his career. The conversation explores how leadership works in rapidly changing industries, what leaders should consider when making decisions in uncertain environments, why education and communication skills matter when leading teams, and what outcomes are often associated with effective leadership, including innovation, business growth, stronger collaboration, and organizational success.   Topics discussed include: • Leadership and team development • Wireless communications and technology innovation • Collective intelligence and collaboration • MBA education and professional growth • Entrepreneurship and business strategy • Artificial intelligence and emerging technologies • Lifelong learning and career development • Building high-performing teams • Leadership communication skills • Technology adoption and change management This episode is relevant for business leaders, entrepreneurs, technology professionals, managers, MBA students, adult learners, executives, and anyone interested in leadership development and professional growth. Whether you're leading a company, managing a team, launching a business, or preparing for your next career move, Jim's insights offer practical perspectives on how leadership evolves through experience, education, and continuous learning. If you enjoyed this conversation, please like, comment, and subscribe. We'd love to hear your thoughts on leadership and the lessons that have shaped your own professional journey. Chapters 00:00 The first cell phones and a family legacy 00:44 Meet wireless technology CEO Jim Bradfield 02:20 Music, creativity, and lifelong passions 07:09 A family history of wireless innovation 09:07 Why saying yes creates opportunity 10:34 Leadership through collaboration 13:04 Building NAS Wireless 14:26 Expanding internet access to rural communities 16:50 Why Jim earned an MBA 20:16 How education shaped leadership 21:31 Growing a business with business strategy 22:41 Collective intelligence and team leadership 26:03 Helping others understand technology 27:07 Leadership lessons for navigating AI 29:00 The future of wireless and artificial intelligence 30:01 Where to connect with Jim Bradfield 31:12 Final leadership takeaways

  2. Jul 13

    Briaca Duesette on Career Change and Creative Leadership EP 43

    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

  3. Jun 5

    Lessons from Deputy Chief & MBA Graduate Michael Bullock | Degrees of Success Podcast | Ep #41

    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 👉 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

  4. Jun 4

    2026 Commencement | Associate Degree in Business: Deann Smith’s Comeback Story

    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. 👉 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

  5. Jun 4

    2026 Commencement | Master of Health Administration: Terry Setzer Career Growth

    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! ►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

  6. Jun 4

    2026 Commencement | Doctor of Business Administration: Dr. Paul White’s Journey

    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! ►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

  7. Jun 4

    2026 Commencement | Doctorate in Business Administration: Dr. Bria James Story

    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! ►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

  8. May 27

    Education Entrepreneurship and Student Success with Jenica Lindquist Ep #40

    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.   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 Follow us on social media connect with UOPX! https://www.phoenix.edu/ ► TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@uopx ► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/universityofphoenix ► X: https://www.X.com/uopx ► Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uopx/ ► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/school/university-of-phoenix/

See All (52)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Behind every college degree is a story. At University of Phoenix, those stories often include a few twists that teach some powerful life lessons. Join us as we sit down with University of Phoenix alumni to discuss their journeys to success, including the adversity, the triumph and the insights you can apply to your own life and career. The stories of accomplishments of these incredible alumni will be shared through both video format on the University of Phoenix YouTube channel and in audio format in all the places you get your podcasts. Tune in for stories of how online students reached their educational dreams and hear their insights on career success.

Information

  • Creator
    University Of Phoenix
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    52
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2024 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Degrees of Success Podcast