As Spiders Do

University of Richmond Alumni Relations
  • 5.0 (13)
  • PERSONAL JOURNALS
  • UPDATED MONTHLY

What are Spiders like? Well, they’re curious, tenacious, passionate, adventurous and so much more. Of course, I’m talking about the University of Richmond Spiders! On this podcast, we'll be sharing stories with you about the amazing things that our Spider alumni do. You’ll hear directly from them about what drives them in their everyday lives and what it means to be a Richmond Spider. Remember, there are Spiders everywhere. And that’s a good thing!

  1. Mini Webisode: The Story Continues

    12/10/2025

    Mini Webisode: The Story Continues

    Join us as we catch up with past guests of As Spiders Do, where they share the latest chapters of their lives. From career milestones and personal growth to unexpected twists and new passions, these podcast alumni reveal how their journeys have evolved since we last spoke. Tune in to hear how the story continues - because at UR, the connections never end and our webs keep growing. Editing by Maggie Johnson, '18, Associate Director of Regional & Young Grad Engagement. Episode music by FASSounds from Pixabay. Nominate someone to be on our show by emailing alumni@richmond.edu.

    20 min
  2. Cultivating Curiosity w/ Nina Rogers, '11 & Adam Hake, '11

    11/26/2025

    Cultivating Curiosity w/ Nina Rogers, '11 & Adam Hake, '11

    Join Nina Rogers and Adam Hake, both Class of 2011, as they reflect on their unexpected journeys from college to their current roles at Foster Made. Discover how their shared experiences and friendships have shaped their careers and personal lives, and explore the importance of curiosity and exploration in their professional paths. Tune in for an engaging discussion on the value of relationships, the evolving tech industry, and the unique community they've built in Richmond. Editing by Stephanie Moki, '26, Alumni Engagement Student Assistant. Episode music by FASSounds from Pixabay. Nominate someone to be on our show by emailing alumni@richmond.edu.

    38 min
  3. Mini Webisode: Spider Owned Businesses

    11/12/2025

    Mini Webisode: Spider Owned Businesses

    In this episode, we shine a spotlight on Spider alumni who’ve turned bold ideas into thriving businesses. Rich Mitchell, '95 and Claude Diggs, '03 share the stories behind their brands, the challenges they’ve faced, and the lessons they’ve learned along the way. Tune in for an inspiring look at the entrepreneurial spirit that continues to shape the Spider community. Check out Rich Mitchell Creative, Small Big Dog Naturals, and all of our Spider Owned Businesses! Editing by Maggie Johnson, '18, Associate Director of Regional & Young Grad Engagement. Episode music by FASSounds from Pixabay. Nominate someone to be on our show by emailing alumni@richmond.edu.

    20 min
  4. Finding Synergy in Life w/ Siwanta Thapa, '23

    10/29/2025

    Finding Synergy in Life w/ Siwanta Thapa, '23

    In this episode of As Spiders Do, join SiwantaThapa, '23 as he shares his journey from Nepal to the University of Richmond and Columbia University. Discover how Siwanta navigated cultural transitions, embraced his identity, and found community and mentorship in unexpected places. From excellence to personal growth, this episode explores the balance between planning and discovery, and the importance of authenticity and self-care. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation about finding one's place in the world and the power of diverse experiences. Editing by Stephanie Moki, '26, Alumni Engagement Student Assistant. Episode music by FASSounds from Pixabay. Nominate someone to be on our show by emailing alumni@richmond.edu.

    28 min
  5. Mini Webisode: Young Grad Voices

    10/15/2025

    Mini Webisode: Young Grad Voices

    In this episode of As Spiders Do, we’re catching up with some of our recent graduates — alumni who are just a few years out of Richmond, navigating life after college and making their mark in the world. From launching careers to pursuing further education, and discovering new passions along the way, they’ll share their honest reflections, challenges, and triumphs since leaving campus. Editing by Maggie Johnson, '18, Associate Director of Regional & Young Grad Engagement. Episode music by FASSounds from Pixabay. Nominate someone to be on our show by emailing alumni@richmond.edu.

    16 min
  6. Following your Interest to Tell Impactful Stories w/ Sam Widdoes, '08

    09/24/2025

    Following your Interest to Tell Impactful Stories w/ Sam Widdoes, '08

    This episode of As Spiders Do explores the unique journey of Sam Widdoes, '08, who balances a career in law with his work as a film producer. His diverse background led to the creation of As We Speak, an award-nominated documentary that was inspired by UR professor, Erik Nielson's work as an expert witness in trials where rap artists' lyrics are used as evidence. Together, we discuss the power of storytelling, the importance of amplifying voices that need to be heard, and the impact of just showing up. Check out Sam's documentary, As We Speak: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt30291991/ Editing by Maggie Johnson, '18, Associate Director of Regional & Young Grad Engagement. Episode music by FASSounds from Pixabay. Nominate someone to be on our show by emailing alumni@richmond.edu.

    25 min
  7. From Inside the Web (University Operations)

    09/10/2025

    From Inside the Web (University Operations)

    UR doesn’t run itself—it takes a dedicated team working behind the scenes to keep everything running smoothly. In today’s episode, we’re shining a light on some of the unsung heroes who make this university feel a little bit more like home. Managing the day-to-day operations isn't easy, but our guests do it with grace and efficiency. Music by Wahyuddin and sound effects from Pixabay. This episode was edited and produced by Maggie Johnson, '18, Associate Director of Regional and Young Graduate Engagement.

    30 min
  8. Taking Opportunities to Explore w/ Imani Esparza-Pitman, '09

    07/31/2025

    Taking Opportunities to Explore w/ Imani Esparza-Pitman, '09

    Being a Richmond Spider means "we live excellence while never forgetting others." Wise words from this month's interviewee, Imani Esparza-Pitman, '09! Tune in to hear Imani's story, from growing up in Richmond, to traveling the world, to becoming a local entrepreneur! Check out Imani's company, I Kale Life: https://www.ikalelife.com/ Editing by Maggie Johnson, '18, Associate Director of Regional & Young Grad Engagement. Episode music by FASSounds from Pixabay. Nominate someone to be on our show by emailing alumni@richmond.edu.

    31 min
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Trailer

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About

What are Spiders like? Well, they’re curious, tenacious, passionate, adventurous and so much more. Of course, I’m talking about the University of Richmond Spiders! On this podcast, we'll be sharing stories with you about the amazing things that our Spider alumni do. You’ll hear directly from them about what drives them in their everyday lives and what it means to be a Richmond Spider. Remember, there are Spiders everywhere. And that’s a good thing!

Information

  • Creator
    University of Richmond Alumni Relations
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2025
  • Episodes
    43
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    As Spiders Do