Doc’s Download: The Podcast Edition

Doc’s Download: The Podcast Edition
  • 5.0 (4)
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  • Updated Weekly

Welcome to Doc’s Download: The Podcast Edition — where real conversations meet real Buckeye life. Hosted by Ohio State University’s Dr. Melissa Shivers, known as Doc, you’ll get stories, strategies and a few laughs along the way. Whether you’re a brand-new Buckeye or a seasoned one, consider this your all-access pass to tips, truths and triumphs straight from the heart of campus.

  1. May 8

    Behind the Mascot 

    We know Brutus Buckeye as the heart of Buckeye Nation—bringing energy to game days, joy to celebrations, comfort in tough moments and Buckeye pride to every corner of campus and Ohio. But who is behind the mascot? In this special episode of Doc’s Download: The Podcast Edition, Dr. Melissa Shivers—Senior Vice President for Student Life, aka “Doc”—goes behind the mascot with a couple graduating Ohio State students who have served as one of the people inside the iconic Brutus Buckeye suit. Together, we explore what inspired this student to try out for one of Ohio State’s most visible and beloved roles, what life is really like inside the “Brutus head” and the powerful impact Brutus has on campus and beyond—from hospitals and schools to moments that leave a lasting impression. The conversation also dives into favorite Brutus moments, signature moves known only to family and close friends, personal growth gained through the experience and what it means to leave behind such a meaningful role at graduation. It’s a heartfelt, fun and reflective look at tradition, service and the students who quietly make Ohio State such a special place.

    52 min

  2. Apr 24

    Grip, Grit, and Community — Ohio State’s Arm-Wrestling Club

    What does it take to turn an unconventional passion into a thriving student organization? On this episode of Doc’s Download: The Podcast Edition, Dr. Melissa Shivers—aka Doc, Senior Vice President for Student Life at The Ohio State University—sits down with members of Ohio State’s Arm-Wrestling Club to find out. From the club’s grassroots beginnings to the technique, discipline and camaraderie behind the sport, this conversation goes far beyond strength alone. The students share what drew them to arm wrestling, how they built a community around it and what they’ve learned about leadership, perseverance and connections along the way. Whether you’re curious about unique student organizations, thinking about starting a club of your own or just want a behind-the-scenes look at one of Ohio State’s unique groups, this episode highlights the passion and creativity that define the Buckeye experience.

    40 min

  3. Apr 17

    Spring Forward: Inside Buckeye Football’s Early Blueprint

    Spring football is about possibility—and on this episode of Doc’s Download: The Podcast Edition, Melissa “Doc” Shivers dives into what’s taking shape for Buckeye football with the upcoming spring game. Joined by student guests Tucker Martin and Charlie Harrison, the conversation breaks down the biggest storylines emerging from early workouts, where this team already shows strength and which position battles are drawing the most attention. From leadership in the quarterback room to the competitive energy across position groups, the episode explores how this roster is beginning to define its identity. Tucker and Charlie also share a student and fan perspective on why spring ball matters—not just for development on the field, but for building excitement and connection heading into the season. Spring may not be about finished products, but it is about direction. This episode offers an early look at what this Buckeye team wants to become—and what students should be watching as that picture comes into focus.

    39 min

  4. Mar 27

    Lights, Camera, Leadership: A Buckeye Interviews Doc

    What happens when the host becomes the guest? In this episode of Doc’s Download, student interviewer Julianna Logan, a fourth-year studying World Politics, sits down with Dr. Melissa Shivers, better know as Doc, for an open and engaging conversation. Together, they explore Doc’s path into higher education, her approach to leadership and what it means to serve students at a large, dynamic university. This episode pulls back the curtain to reveal the values, experiences and vision that shape Doc’s work every day.

    29 min

  5. Feb 27

    Reid Family Career Closet with Allyson and Jimmy Reid

    What does confidence look like—and how can something as simple as the right outfit help students step boldly into their future? On this episode of Doc’s Download, host Dr. Melissa Shivers (“Doc”) sits down with Allyson and Jimmy Reid, the generous Buckeyes behind the Reid Family Career Closet, along with student guest Krista Bair, who shares firsthand how access to professional attire can be a game‑changer. Together, they explore the heart behind the Reid Family Career Closet in the Monda Student Resource Center, the powerful connection between clothing and confidence and why access to professional attire matters for today’s college students. From light‑hearted fashion moments to meaningful reflections on student success, this conversation highlights what’s possible when community, generosity and belief in students come together. Whether you’re a student preparing for your next opportunity, an alum looking to give back, or someone who believes in removing barriers to success, this episode offers inspiration, insight and a reminder that sometimes a blazer really can change everything.

    44 min

  6. 11/21/2025

    Buckeye Bucket List: Finishing the Semester Strong

    There is so much to do at Ohio State, yet the time students spend here, from Convocation to Commencement, is short. No matter where you are on your Buckeye journey, it’s good to have a bucket list of goals before graduation. On this edition of Doc’s Download: The Podcast Edition, Doc talks with three students who have made a lasting impact on campus and beyond. They are Zarek Ahmed, a Nursing major and member of The Best Damn Band in the Land; Emma Hellenkamp, majoring in Sport Industry and a member of the Ohio State Dance Team; and Kevin Cazarez Lopez, an Environment, Economy, Development and Sustainability (EEDS) major and a member of the 119th SPHINX Honorary. Zarek, Emma and Kevin each talk about what is still left on their Buckeye Bucket List to accomplish before graduation, as well as offering words of encouragement to fellow students trying to finish the semester strong.  Listen at go.osu.edu/docspodcast or watch at go.osu.edu/docsyoutube.

    33 min

  7. 11/14/2025

    Binge-Worthy Leadership Lessons

    What can Ted Lasso and The Bear teach us about empathy, resilience, and leading with heart? In this episode of Doc’s Download, The Podcast Edition, host Dr. Melissa Shivers (Doc) sits down with Dave DeAngelo, Maddox Rickens, and Re’Nesha Weston to explore leadership lessons inspired by these binge-worthy shows. From navigating failure to building trust, and why kindness and authenticity matter more than ever, this conversation blends pop culture with practical wisdom for anyone looking to lead with purpose.

    47 min

  8. 11/07/2025

    The Power of a Letter: The Story Behind the Monda Student Resource Center

    What happens when generosity meets purpose? In this episode of Doc’s Download: The Podcast Edition, host Dr. Melissa Shivers (Doc) sits down with Keith Monda and Veronica Brady—the visionaries behind the Monda Student Resource Center—and Dhalia Brelsford, a student whose life has been impacted by this incredible space. Discover how a simple letter sparked a transformative gift, why meeting students’ basic needs matters and how the Center is helping Buckeyes thrive. This is a story about hope, compassion and the ripple effect of one powerful act.

    42 min
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About

Welcome to Doc’s Download: The Podcast Edition — where real conversations meet real Buckeye life. Hosted by Ohio State University’s Dr. Melissa Shivers, known as Doc, you’ll get stories, strategies and a few laughs along the way. Whether you’re a brand-new Buckeye or a seasoned one, consider this your all-access pass to tips, truths and triumphs straight from the heart of campus.

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