Discovering the Maverick Factor

The University of Texas at Arlington
  • 5.0 (2)
  • EDUCATION

Welcome to Discovering the Maverick Factor, a podcast sharing stories of UT Arlington’s Mavericks—the students, faculty, staff, and alumni who stand out as inspiring leaders in their fields, researchers expanding the limits of what we know, and trailblazers who are taking us fearlessly into the future. Along the way, we’ll highlight the unique spirit that unites us all, provide a look at what’s coming up for the campus, and so much more. Ready to discover the Maverick Factor? Let’s go.

  1. President Cowley Talks 130 Years of Maverick Excellence

    12/09/2025

    President Cowley Talks 130 Years of Maverick Excellence

    UTA has celebrated its big birthday in bold and creative ways. President Jennifer Cowley shares her highlights of the 130th anniversary festivities and gives insight on what’s in store for the University’s bright future.

    13 min
  2. The Magic Behind Homecoming

    11/04/2025

    The Magic Behind Homecoming

    Join Lisa-Marie Akindayomi and Siam Tungnung, who are students on UTA’s Homecoming Planning Committee, for an inside look at what it takes to bring Homecoming to life. The two explain how this year’s theme, “There’s No Place Like Homecoming” applies to the UTA community and discuss underrated events, favorite traditions, and memories that will stay with them for years to come.

    17 min
  3. A Full-Court Family Bond

    10/21/2025

    A Full-Court Family Bond

    Meet Steven Reynolds, an assistant coach for UTA’s women’s basketball team, and three of his daughters—Mila, Amiyah, and Kira—who are all beginning their first season with the Lady Mavs. The sisters discuss how their individual playing styles complement each other and what it’s like to be on the same team at the collegiate level after competing side by side in high school. Coach Reynolds shares his perspective on embracing the opportunity to combine fatherhood and coaching, all while supporting Head Coach Shereka Wright in leading the team toward its goals.

    17 min
  4. 130 Years of Maverick History

    09/09/2025

    130 Years of Maverick History

    In this episode, we dive deep into the storied history of the University. Former Dean of Libraries Gerald Saxon and current Director of Special Collections Kera Newby take us on a trip through the rich archives of the University, sharing unique items in the collection and the meaningful and sometimes surprising stories behind them.

    27 min
  5. Talking Traditions at UTA

    08/18/2025

    Talking Traditions at UTA

    In this episode, host Melanie Skiles chats with students Harshdeep Singh, Faith Chipps, Kameryn McGlothlin, and Ashley Place about what they’re looking forward to as they kick off the academic year. Faith and Kameryn talk about their roles in helping rewrite UTA’s fight song, the creative process for developing the rhythm and the lyrics, and how it felt to contribute to a song that will be a cornerstone of spirited UTA occasions for years to come. Harshdeep, voted Mr.UTA, and Ashley, president of the College Panhellenic Council, explain their involvement in traditional Maverick Stampede events and how their participation in student organizations has shaped their college experience.

    33 min
  6. Exploring Women's History

    03/12/2025

    Exploring Women's History

    History Associate Professor Stephanie Cole joins us for the latest episode of Discovering the Maverick Factor. She and Jewel Washington, vice president of Talent, Culture, and Engagement, ring in Women’s History Month by discussing some of the women who influenced or inspired them, then turn to lesser-known figures who deserve more recognition. Dr. Cole shares some of the insights she gained while co-editing the book Texas Women: Their Histories, Their Lives and tells us which notable woman from Texas history she’d like to see highlighted in more classrooms. She also talks about her experience as a teacher and describes what it felt like to win the College of Liberal Arts’ Outstanding Teaching Award.

    21 min
  7. Shaping Futures with Research

    02/12/2025

    Shaping Futures with Research

    In this episode, we take a deep dive into undergraduate research at UTA with two special guests. Kay Johnson-Winters, faculty member and director of undergraduate research, explains how participating in research can help students unlock new passions, while Kritazya Upreti, undergraduate student from Nepal, shares his experience in the program and how it helped him grow as a student. Together, they also discuss their academic inspirations, research highlights, and why all undergraduate students should consider joining a research program at UTA.

    26 min
  8. Inside Maverick Basketball

    01/08/2025

    Inside Maverick Basketball

    Join head coaches KT Turner and Shereka Wright as they reflect on the basketball season so far, sharing key moments, standout performances, and what’s ahead for Maverick hoops. Get an inside look at the strategies and stories shaping their teams as they aim for success. Perfect for fans looking to stay connected to the action or anyone curious about the heartbeat of Maverick basketball.

    26 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Welcome to Discovering the Maverick Factor, a podcast sharing stories of UT Arlington’s Mavericks—the students, faculty, staff, and alumni who stand out as inspiring leaders in their fields, researchers expanding the limits of what we know, and trailblazers who are taking us fearlessly into the future. Along the way, we’ll highlight the unique spirit that unites us all, provide a look at what’s coming up for the campus, and so much more. Ready to discover the Maverick Factor? Let’s go.

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