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. FEB 5

    From Graduate School to Military Leadership: Hodari Brown’s Path to Service | Degrees of Success

    Learn how earning a master’s degree can open unexpected leadership and service opportunities. Army veteran and University of Phoenix alum Hodari P.T. Brown shares how education, mentorship, and faith shaped his path to military service, leadership, and community impact. After completing his master’s degree at University of Phoenix, Hodari experienced a pivotal moment that redirected his life toward military service. What began as a search for purpose turned into a calling to lead, serve, and mentor others — both in uniform and beyond. Hodari’s story highlights how lifelong learning, resilience, and service can create meaningful impact — especially for working adults, veterans, and those seeking purpose-driven careers.   📖 Chapters: Jump to Key Moments 00:00 - Embracing Life and Taking Action 0:55 - Meet Hodari P.T. Brown: Veteran, Leader, Mentor 02:13 - From Graduate School to Military Service 03:22 - Becoming a Valedictorian and the Power of Education 06:42 - How Mentorship Shapes Success 09:14 - Learning From Those You Mentor 10:43 - Faith, Leadership, and Accountability 12:46 - Managing Work-Life Balance as a Leader 15:11 - Supporting Veterans’ Mental Health 17:49 - What Public Service Really Means 19:01 - Serving Through Federal Agencies 20:18 - Why Small Business Growth Matters 23:52 - Being Honored as a UOPX Luminary 26:07 - Pursuing a Doctorate While Working 27:34 - Becoming a Leader in Organizational Leadership 28:27 - Advice to My Younger Self—and Future Alumni ⭐️ Key takeaways from this episode: ✓ How higher education prepared him for leadership in the military ✓ Why mentorship was critical to his personal and professional growth ✓ Lessons from becoming the first African-American male valedictorian at his high school ✓ How faith influences leadership, accountability, and service ✓ Supporting veterans’ mental health and breaking the stigma around PTSD ✓ Balancing career, service, family, and personal well-being   Learn more about the Business programs at UOPX! 👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/online-business-degrees.html Subscribe for more powerful success stories and mindset strategies! 👉 https://www.youtube.com/@UOPXDegreesOfSuccessPodcast 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

    29 min

  2. JAN 22

    Navigating Career Growth & Mentorship with Shantavia Webb | Degrees of Success Podcast Ep 32

    In this episode, we sit down with Shantavia Webb, the Nashville Division Human Resources Leader at Kroger, to explore her remarkable career journey from intern to leader. Shantavia shares her insights on the importance of mentorship, diversity, and representation in the workplace. Learn how her dedication to fostering black leadership and community engagement has not only shaped her career but also inspired others.   Don't miss this inspiring conversation with Shantavia Webb. Subscribe now to stay updated on future episodes! ⭐️ Key takeaways from this episode: ✓ My journey has been shaped with a lot of insecurity. ✓ It's okay to feel insecure, but learn to push through. ✓ Mentorship has been crucial at every stage of my career. ✓ Education is for personal growth, not just job requirements. ✓ Authenticity in leadership fosters respect and connection. ✓ Every day is an interview; consistency is key. ✓ Be prepared and know the job you're applying for. ✓ Image matters; present yourself professionally. ✓ Don't narrow your focus on your career path. ✓ Your journey is one of overcoming challenges.   📖 Chapters: Jump to Key Moments 00:00 - Overcoming Insecurity and Embracing Leadership 01:47 - The Journey from Intern to HR Leader 05:22 - The Importance of Mentorship 09:11 - Education and Its Role in Career Growth 12:55 - The Value of Higher Education in Today's Job Market 14:52 - Authenticity in Leadership 17:37 - Navigating Job Applications and Interviews 21:24 - Key Takeaways for Job Seekers 26:47 - Final Thoughts and Personal Reflections   Learn more about the Business Degree program at UOPX! 👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/online-business-degrees.html Subscribe for more powerful success stories and mindset strategies! 👉 https://www.youtube.com/@UOPXDegreesOfSuccessPodcast 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

    31 min

  3. JAN 8

    Education & Lifelong Learning at University of Phoenix | Degrees of Success Podcast Ep #31

    In this conversation, Janice DaCosta shares her journey from being a teenage mom to becoming a mindfulness and wellness coach. She discusses the importance of education, personal experiences, and the transformative power of travel. Janice emphasizes the significance of choosing oneself, advocating for health, and the mind-body connection in achieving wellness. Her insights on nutrition, mindfulness practices, and the impact of personal stories resonate throughout the discussion, inspiring listeners to embrace their authentic selves and pursue their goals. Don't miss this insightful episode! Subscribe now to stay updated on future discussions.   ⭐️ Key takeaways from this episode: ✓ Transformation is a lifelong journey. ✓ Mindfulness is key to personal growth. ✓ Nutrition plays a vital role in wellness. ✓ Personal experiences drive passion for helping others. ✓ Authenticity means embracing all emotions, not just joy. '✓ Asking questions is essential for self-advocacy. ✓ The mind-gut connection is powerful. ✓ Choosing yourself is the first step to happiness. ✓ Balance is necessary for emotional health. ✓ Every milestone contributes to personal strength.   📖 Chapters: Jump to Key Moments 00:00 - From Hamster Wheel to Transformation 08:06 - The Journey of a Mind Shift Advocate 16:41 - The Power of Mindfulness and Nutrition 23:13 - Choosing Yourself: The Path to Authenticity   Learn more about the Business Degree program at UOPX! 👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/online-business-degrees.html   Subscribe for more powerful success stories and mindset strategies! 👉 https://www.youtube.com/@UOPXDegreesOfSuccessPodcast 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

    31 min

  4. 12/18/2025

    From Dropout to Doctor: Wayne McCoy’s Journey | Degrees of Success Podcast Ep #30

    Join host Freda Richards as she sits down with Dr. Wayne McCoy, a distinguished faculty member at University of Phoenix. In this episode, Dr. McCoy shares his inspiring journey from high school dropout to military service and eventually becoming a faculty of the year award recipient. Discover his passion for teaching, his insights on education, and the importance of servant leadership. Tune in to hear Dr. McCoy's valuable insights and learn how you can find fulfillment in your educational and professional journey. Subscribe now to never miss an episode! ⭐️ Key takeaways from this episode: ✓ We take two things with us, what we've learned and the relationships we've gained. ✓ Dr. McCoy's journey from high school dropout to educator is inspiring. ✓ The dissertation process involves understanding and managing bias. ✓ Support from mentors is crucial for student success. ✓ Finding fulfillment comes from helping others and meaningful relationships. ✓ Education is an obligation to better oneself and others. ✓ AI can enhance education but should not replace personal learning. ✓ The University of Phoenix provides a supportive environment for students. ✓ Material success does not equate to personal fulfillment. ✓ Lifelong learning is essential in today's evolving world. 📖 Chapters: Jump to Key Moments 00:00 - The Journey of Learning and Relationships 02:26 - From High School Dropout to Educator 05:19 - The Role of a Dissertation Chair 08:07 - The Importance of Support in Education 10:39 - Finding Fulfillment Beyond Material Success 13:13 - The Value of Education in Today's World 15:57 - Navigating AI in Education 18:30 - Navigating AI in Education Learn more about the Doctoral program at UOPX! 👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/online-doctoral-degrees.html Subscribe for more powerful success stories and mindset strategies! 👉 https://www.youtube.com/@UOPXDegreesOfSuccessPodcast 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

    29 min

  5. 12/04/2025

    The Coffee Culture: More than Just a Drink | Degrees of Success Podcast Ep #29

    Join host Freda Richards as she sits down with Orlando Jiménez, a multifaceted entrepreneur, veteran, and athlete. Discover how Orlando's upbringing in Arizona's agricultural heartland shaped his work ethic and passion for service. From his time in the Navy to founding Dos Bros Coffee and Fight Rope, Orlando shares insights on leadership, resilience, and the power of community. Tune in to hear Orlando's inspiring story and learn how you can apply his principles of service and resilience in your own life. Link in first comment. ⭐️ Key takeaways from this episode: ✓ Strength in vulnerability is essential for growth. ✓ Family influences shape work ethic and values. ✓ Military service instills discipline and camaraderie. ✓ Transitioning to civilian life can be challenging. ✓ Servant leadership is key to success. ✓ Personal growth requires self-reflection and emotional intelligence. ✓ Building community is vital in business. ✓ Overcoming PTSD involves patience and understanding. ✓ Love what you do to find fulfillment. ✓ Always give yourself permission to pursue your dreams. 📖 Chapters: Jump to Key Moments 00:00 - Strength in Vulnerability 04:30 - Roots of Hard Work and Service 09:14 - Military Journey and Life Lessons 18:00 - Transitioning from Military to Civilian Life 22:33 - The Heart of Service and Leadership 24:26 - Final Thoughts and Future Aspirations Learn more about the MBA program at UOPX! 👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/online-busine... Subscribe for more powerful success stories and mindset strategies! 👉    / @uopxdegreesofsuccesspodcast   Alumni Chronicles | Main Page 👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/blog/alumni-c... Explore the Degrees of Success Podcast Page 👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/blog/alumni-c... Explore the University of Phoenix 👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/ ⭐️ Connect with us on social! ►TikTok:   / uopx   ► Facebook:   / universityofphoenix   ► Instagram:   / uopxalumni   ► Instagram:   / uopx   ► LinkedIn:   / university-of-phoenix   ► X: https://x.com/UOPX Thinking about attending UOPX online? 📱 Request info today: https://www.phoenix.edu/request/reque... 💻 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-degree...

    29 min

  6. 11/11/2025

    Honoring a Hero: Major Fannie McClendon | Degrees of Success Podcast | Veterans Day Special

    Join us on the Degrees of Success podcast for a Veterans Day special as we sit down with Major Fannie McClendon, a true American hero. At 105 years young, Major McClendon shares her incredible journey as a World War II veteran and trailblazing Air Force officer. Her story, recently brought to life in the movie "6888," is one of resilience, service, and breaking barriers. Don't miss this inspiring episode! Subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Follow us for more incredible stories of success and resilience.   ⭐️ Key takeaways from this episode: ✓ Major McClendon's journey reflects the challenges faced by women in the military during WWII. ✓ The importance of family influence in shaping one's career choices. ✓ Friendships formed in the military can last a lifetime. ✓ Communication was vital for maintaining morale among soldiers. ✓ Major McClendon's love story adds a personal touch to her military experience. ✓ The 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion played a crucial role in wartime communication. ✓ Overcoming adversity was a common theme among women in the military. ✓ Traveling abroad provided unique experiences and opportunities for personal growth. ✓ The significance of community and support among service members. ✓ Major McClendon's legacy continues to inspire future generations. 📖 Chapters: Jump to Key Moments 00:00 - Introduction to Major Griffin's Journey 02:04 - Life in the Military: Challenges and Triumphs 04:54 - The Role of Women in WWII 07:02 - Family Influence and Personal Motivation 09:31 - Friendships and Bonds in the Service 12:05 - The Importance of Communication in Wartime 14:28 - Love and Relationships During the War 17:05 - Travel and Experiences Abroad 19:38 - The Impact of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion 22:09 - Overcoming Adversity and Building Community 24:32 - Reflections on Service and Legacy Learn more about the Fannie McClendon Scholarship at UOPX! 👉 https://info.nsls.org/university-of-phoenix-scholarship-winners Subscribe for more powerful success stories and mindset strategies! 👉 https://www.youtube.com/@UOPXDegreesOfSuccessPodcast 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

    42 min

  7. 11/07/2025

    The 2025 UOPX Commencement | Las Vegas | Day 2

    This conversation highlights the inspiring journey of Ana Perez and Lucia Ananos, who have pursued their education through the University of Phoenix, overcoming personal challenges and celebrating their achievements. They share their stories of resilience, the importance of education, and the support they received along the way. They emphasize the significance of showing up and persevering through difficulties, ultimately achieving their educational dreams and honoring their loved ones.   ⭐️ Key takeaways from this episode: ✓ Education is a journey that often takes time and perseverance. ✓ Overcoming personal challenges is a crucial part of success. ✓ The support from academic advisors can make a significant difference. ✓ Flexibility in education allows for balancing personal and professional responsibilities. ✓ Showing up is essential; it's half the battle in any endeavor. ✓ Faith and inner strength can guide individuals through tough times. ✓ It's important to prioritize and keep focus on your goals. ✓ Honoring loved ones can provide motivation to push through challenges. ✓ The experience of earning a degree can be transformative and empowering. ' ✓ The experience of earning a degree can be transformative and empowering.   📖 Chapters: Jump to Key Moments 00:00 - A Dream Realized: The Journey Begins 01:37 - Overcoming Challenges: A Personal Story 06:36 - The Value of Education: Degrees and Opportunities 11:53 - Finding Strength in Adversity 13:16 - Messages of Resilience: Inspiring the Next Generation 16:00 - Honoring Legacy: A Tribute to Loved Ones 19:51 - The Power of Showing Up: Advice for Students   Learn more about UOPX commencement! 👉https://www.phoenix.edu/commencement.html Subscribe for more powerful success stories and mindset strategies! 👉 https://www.youtube.com/@UOPXDegreesOfSuccessPodcast 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

    24 min

  8. 11/04/2025

    The 2025 UOPX Commencement | Las Vegas | Day 1

    This conversation highlights the inspiring journey of Derek Dominique Montgomery and Diana Ebai, who have pursued their education through the University of Phoenix, overcoming personal challenges and celebrating their achievements. They share their stories of resilience, the importance of education, and the support they received along the way. They emphasize the significance of showing up and persevering through difficulties, ultimately achieving their educational dreams and honoring their loved ones.   ⭐️ Key takeaways from this episode: ✓ The only person that can stop you is you. ✓ Education is a long journey that requires perseverance. ✓ Family support is crucial in achieving educational goals. ✓ Motivation can come from personal experiences and challenges. ✓ Pursuing a career in psychology can be fulfilling and transformative. ✓ Transformative experiences in education can change lives. ✓ It's important to seek help and guidance during tough times. ✓ Mentorship can provide valuable support for students. ✓ Navigating challenges is part of the educational journey. ✓ Gratitude for the institution and support systems is essential.   📖 Chapters: Jump to Key Moments 00:00 - Overcoming Adversity and Finding Motivation 02:51 - The Journey to Graduation: A Long Road 05:44 - The Importance of Family and Support 09:06 - Pursuing a Career in Psychology and Therapy 11:59 - Transformative Experiences in Education 14:45 - Advice for Future Students 16:29 - Celebrating Achievements and Gratitude 19:25 - The Impact of Education on Community 23:41 - Navigating Challenges in Education 25:42 - Final Thoughts and Acknowledgments   Learn more about UOPX commencement! 👉https://www.phoenix.edu/commencement.html Subscribe for more powerful success stories and mindset strategies! 👉 https://www.youtube.com/@UOPXDegreesOfSuccessPodcast 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

    29 min
See All (38)

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
    38
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2024 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Degrees of Success Podcast