Stories of Change & Creativity

Professor Judy Oskam
  • 5.0 (11)
  • EDUCATION
  • UPDATED MONTHLY

Navigate change, spark creativity, and live your best life.Conversations with students, artists, professors, entrepreneurs, writers and everyday changemakers. Listeners learn:- How to navigate change with courage and clarity- Personal stories of reinvention and creative breakthroughs- Practical tips and productivity hacks- How to overcome self-doubt and unleash creative potential  https://linktr.ee/judyoskam

  1. Outlander as Public History: Dr. Alex Dold on Making History and Reading Accessible

    JAN 26

    Outlander as Public History: Dr. Alex Dold on Making History and Reading Accessible

    If you’re a fan of Outlander, the historical fiction series set in Scotland, like I am, this episode is for you. In this conversation, I talk with Dr. Alexandra “Alex” Dold, a literary scholar and historian known as the “Doctor of Outlander,” about her academic journey and career path.  We discuss how historical fiction can become public history — inviting people to connect with history beyond textbooks and classrooms. During this episode, you’ll learn how Outlander and other historical fiction can build bridges between fans, public audiences, and academic inquiry. Alex also shares insights from her own path — from studying literature in Germany to completing a PhD in Scotland on Outlander as public history.  You'll hear how that journey reshaped her understanding of how stories can make reading and history more accessible for everyone. What You’ll Learn in This Episode How historical fiction functions as public historyWhy stories like Outlander make history feel accessible and emotionally resonantDr. Alex Dold’s academic journey — from pursuing language and literature to transforming it into public-facing scholarshipPractical ways listeners can continue engaging with history and reading outside formal academic spacesWhy This Matters Historical fiction often gets dismissed as “just entertainment.” Alex’s work reframes it as public history.  It's a way that everyday readers and viewers connect with the past and develop meaningful questions. This episode invites listeners to: see the Outlander stories they love as gateways to learning,recognize curiosity as a valid path to knowledge, andthink about how reading habits can lead to deeper exploration.Guest Info Dr. Alexandra “Alex” Dold is a literary scholar and historian whose research focuses on historical fiction as public history. She completed her PhD in history examining the Outlander novels at the University of the Highlands and Islands, Centre for History, Dornoch.  Dr. Dold explored the role of Outlander in shaping how people engage with history beyond traditional academic spaces.  You can find out more about Dr. Dold and her scholarship below: https://alexdold.com/ Outlander Dr. Diana Gabaldon is the author of the award-winning The Outlander series.  You can learn more about about the series and Diana here.   The final season of Outlander airs in March 2026 on STARZ.   I'd love to hear from you - send me a text! Hi Friend - Thanks for listening! Check out my TEDx talk. Why you should take action - then figure it out.

    41 min
  2. Singer-Songwriter Candace Hastings on Living a Good Way (Mno-Bmadzewen) Through Creativity and Purpose

    JAN 19

    Singer-Songwriter Candace Hastings on Living a Good Way (Mno-Bmadzewen) Through Creativity and Purpose

    In this music-filled episode of Stories of Change and Creativity, Judy Oskam sits down with singer-songwriter and education leader Dr. Candace Hastings to explore what it means to live a creative life of purpose.  They talk about identity, community, and meaning. Along the way, you’ll hear excerpts from Candace’s new album, including “Soft Place to Land” and “Horses I Left Behind,” songs shaped by memory, place, and belonging. Dr. Hastings is the Associate Vice Provost for the Center for Teaching, Learning, and Scholarship at Texas State University, an acclaimed singer-songwriter and a tribal member of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation. Her Potawatomi name is Mskwagishgokwe [Red Sky Woman].  Candace shares how being adopted and later discovering her Indigenous heritage helped her come “full circle,” shaping both her leadership and her songwriting. This episode features excerpts of Candace’s music, including “Soft Place to Land” and “Horses I Left Behind.” What You’ll Learn in This Episode How Candace integrates creative practice and leadership in higher educationHow identity and heritage shape her songwriting The Potawatomi concept of mno-bmadzewen - walking in a good way on the earth—a life guided by balance, responsibility, and relationship with community and the landWhy curiosity and creativity are essential for learning, teaching, and innovationHow work and play overlap when your work is aligned with meaning Creativity and Letting the Song Lead Candace describes her musical genre as Americana—and says each song “tells her what it needs to be.” Sometimes that means swing (as in “Lone Star Christmas”) and sometimes it means a fully layered studio production. The song “Horses I Left Behind,” was written during Candace’s trips to Oklahoma where she deepened her connection to her Potawatomi roots. She told me that she later learned she drove past the cemetery where her grandmother was buried.  This gives special meaning to the song.   Candace has a new album coming out in spring 2026, featuring the following songs: Soft Place to Land (title track)Horses I Left BehindLove and Cowboys It’s Too Damn Hot Call Your Mama You can find out more about Candace Hastings and her music here:    https://www.candacehastings.com/   This episode was recorded at Live Oak Studios on the campus of Texas State University.     I'd love to hear from you - send me a text! Hi Friend - Thanks for listening! Check out my TEDx talk. Why you should take action - then figure it out.

    34 min
  3. What to Say When Someone You Love Is Dying: The Good Goodbye with Dr. Maureen Keeley

    JAN 6

    What to Say When Someone You Love Is Dying: The Good Goodbye with Dr. Maureen Keeley

    What do you say when someone you love is dying—and you know your time together is limited? In this practical and compassionate episode, Judy Oskam talks with Dr. Maureen Keeley, a leading researcher on end-of-life communication, from Texas State University.   Dr. Maureen Keeley offers a research-based framework for anyone caring for an aging parent, supporting a loved one through illness, or anticipating loss.  Listeners will learn what matters most in end-of-life conversations and how small, everyday moments can become the memories that last a lifetime. What You’ll Learn in This Episode How to rethink “final conversations” so you don’t wait until it’s too lateWhy there is no perfect goodbyeHow everyday routines can provide comfort, meaning, and connection at the end of lifeHow these conversations help you, not just the person who is dying The Six Themes of Final Conversations (Research-Based) Love messages – expressing love, reassurance, affection, and presenceIdentity messages – affirming strengths, values, and who someone has been in your lifeSpiritual or religious messages – faith, meaning, beliefs about death or the afterlifeEveryday talk – routine conversations, humor, shared activities, normal lifeHealing difficult relationships – addressing unresolved tension, softening anger, finding peaceTaking care of the business of death and dying – wishes, living wills, memorial plans, passwords, and practical guidanceDr. Maureen Keeley is a Professor of Interpersonal Communication at Texas State University.  She has studied end-of-life communication for more than two decades.   You can find Dr. Keeley and Dr. Yingling's book below:  The Good Goodbye:  The Transformative Power of Conversation at the End of Life by Maureen P. Kelley, Ph.D. and Julie M. Yingling, Ph.D.  This episode was recorded at Live Oak Studios on the campus of Texas State University. I'd love to hear from you - send me a text! Hi Friend - Thanks for listening! Check out my TEDx talk. Why you should take action - then figure it out.

    45 min
  4. Try January: A New Year Mindset That Begins with Trying

    JAN 1

    Try January: A New Year Mindset That Begins with Trying

    January is often framed as a month of restriction—Dry January, less sugar, less indulgence, less everything. But what if January wasn’t about giving things up? What if it was about trying? In this Try January episode, Judy Oskam weaves together powerful insights from past conversations to explore how meaningful change begins. Experts comment on building identity capital and setting goals, mentorship, creativity, adventure, and kindness.  This episode reminds us that change often starts with a choice… and the courage to try. What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why trying is powerful How everyday choices shape identity and personal growthAn effective way to think about goals: learning vs. performanceThe lasting impact of mentorship and paying it forwardHow stepping into unfamiliar places can transform who we becomeWhy creativity begins with our surroundingsA gentle reminder to be kind—to others and to yourselfFeatured Voices  Dr. Meg Jay, psychologist and author, on identity capital and why we are shaped by what we do, not just who we think we are. You can hear our podcast interview here.  Caroline Adams Miller, goal-setting expert, on dreaming boldly and balancing learning goals with performance goals.  We discussed Caroline's goal strategy in our 2025 interview.  Dr. Kelly Damphousse, President of Texas State University, on mentorship and paying it forward.  I'm honored Dr. Damphousse was my 100th podcast episode.  Wendy Conklin, artist and founder of Chair Whimsy, on how our environments spark joy and creativity.  Wendy wrote the book on creativity - you can find it here.Dr. Cliff Redford, veterinarian and global adventurer, on kindness.  You can listen to our interview at this link.  Students Jamin Ochoa and Angie Olmos, reflecting on how studying abroad in Scotland changed their perspective and confidence.  Check out my Scotland mini series here. If this episode resonated with you, please share it with someone who might need encouragement to try something new this January.  Thanks for listening—and here’s to making it a Try January I'd love to hear from you - send me a text! Hi Friend - Thanks for listening! Check out my TEDx talk. Why you should take action - then figure it out.

    16 min
  5. Coming Home: Navajo Designer Amy Denet Deal on Identity, Healing, and Sustainable Fashion

    11/28/2025

    Coming Home: Navajo Designer Amy Denet Deal on Identity, Healing, and Sustainable Fashion

    What is home? Is it a place, a memory, a landscape—or a journey? In this episode, Judy Oskam explores the transformative meaning of home with Amy Denet Deal.  She's the founder of 4 Kinship, Indigenous Futures Forever, and the Diné Skate Garden Project. Amy’s story is one of remarkable courage and clarity. In her mid-50s, she left the corporate fashion world and returned to her Navajo roots. Her journey home reveals how healing and creativity intersect in powerful ways. In this episode, Judy and Amy talk about adoption and culture.  They both share an adoption connection.  Returning to Her Roots Amy shares her early life story of being adopted out of her Navajo community in the 1960s—before the Indian Child Welfare Act.Amy describes the moment she chose to “come home” in 2019. Selling everything and driving to New Mexico to reconnect with her culture.Healing and Identity Amy shares about meeting her birth mother for the first time .The emotional work of reconnecting with family, community, and heritage.From Fashion Executive to Indigenous Fashion Leader A look inside Amy’s career in corporate fashion and the ethical concerns that pushed her toward sustainable design.The founding of 4 Kinship, a brand rooted in Indigenous artistry and community impact. Creating Spaces for the Next Generation Why skateboarding became a tool for youth empowerment, health, and suicide prevention.Long-term dreams of a fiber farm—possibly in Scotland—to support her daughter’s fashion future.The deep connection between land and clarity of purpose.Memorable Quote “Home to me is a feeling of calmness and clarity. Coming back to my homelands quieted the noise and helped me understand exactly why I’m here.” - Amy Denet Deal A Reflection for You Judy closes the episode with a question for listeners:  What does home mean to you? Is it a place, a person, a memory—or a journey you're still traveling? Photo by Shaun Price.  I'd love to hear from you - send me a text! Hi Friend - Thanks for listening! Check out my TEDx talk. Why you should take action - then figure it out.

    21 min
  6. Why Celebration Is Essential: Rituals, Meaning, and Maya Wisdom with Dr. R. Jon McGee

    11/19/2025

    Why Celebration Is Essential: Rituals, Meaning, and Maya Wisdom with Dr. R. Jon McGee

    What if celebration isn’t something “extra,” but something essential to living a meaningful, connected life?  If you're like me, you're always looking for reasons to celebrate and enjoy life.   In this episode of Stories of Change and Creativity, I sit down with Dr. R. Jon McGee—anthropologist, author, and longtime Texas State University professor— to explore the topic of celebration.  We met at the Live Oak Podcast Studio on the campus of Texas State University.   For more than forty years, Dr. McGee lived with and learned from Maya communities in southern Mexico. He explained how rituals create order in chaotic times and help people navigate change. Inside Maya Ritual Life Professor McGee takes us inside ceremonies shaped by rainforest ecosystems and centuries of tradition— incense drifting prayers spoken in a distinct ritual voicebalché, a fermented mead used to open a sacred, altered stateHe reveals how metaphors woven into healing incantations—birds, winds, heat, and fever—carry cultural memory and symbolic meaning.  Why Rituals Matter in Our Everyday Lives From Christmas and communion to Thanksgiving tables and graduation, Professor McGee helps us see how our own traditions carry histories and stories forward. These familiar symbols—colors, foods, candles, music—are  anchors that help us mark time and feel connected. How to Bring More Celebration Into Your Life If you’re craving more meaning, we discuss some practical ways to create moments of celebration: Gather the people who matter mostChoose symbols your group already lovesEngage all five sensesMake space for recognition and storytellingKeep it small—simple gestures can make a big differenceHow do you celebrate? I’d love to hear. If you enjoyed this episode subscribe, share with a friend who might need to celebrate more often, and leave a review.   Tell me the one ritual you’d never give up. Learn more about Dr. R. Jon McGee here. Recorded at Live Oak Studios on the campus of Texas State University. I'd love to hear from you - send me a text! Hi Friend - Thanks for listening! Check out my TEDx talk. Why you should take action - then figure it out.

    35 min
  7. The United States of Sport: Dr. Kenon Brown on Branding and the Future of Sports Communication

    11/02/2025

    The United States of Sport: Dr. Kenon Brown on Branding and the Future of Sports Communication

    How do sports, culture, and communication shape who we are?  In this episode, Judy Oskam talks with University of Alabama Sports Scholar Dr. Kenon Brown.    Dr. Brown is a professor of advertising and public relations, co-director of the Beyond Sports Initiative, and co-author of the book -  The United States of Sport: Media Framing and the Influence of the Intersection of Sports and American Culture.   During our conversation we explore how sports reflect American society, how branding and communication shape identity, and how career pivots can open doors to purpose and passion. From the rise of women’s sports to the connection between hip-hop and the NBA, Dr. Brown offers a powerful look at creativity and change through the lens of sport. In this episode you'll learn:   - The 'perfect storm' moment that connected passion and purpose, resulting in a career change  - How sports mirror American culture — from equality in pay to pop culture and hip-hop  - Why authenticity and consistency matter in personal branding, especially for NIL athletes  - The powerful link between sports, mental health, and communication  - What’s next in global sports: the 2026 World Cup and 2028 Olympics Quotes - Dr. Kenon Brown “It was the perfect storm — the right people at the right time helped me make the pivot.”    “Sports are a microcosm of society. Every major cultural shift is reflected on the field or court.”    “Be authentic. Be consistent. That’s the foundation of a strong personal brand.”    “The intersection of communication, culture, and sports is where real change happens.” Resources and Links - The United States of Sport: Media Framing and the Influence of the Intersection of Sports and American Culture by Kenon Brown, Josh Dickhaus, and Mia Long Anderson - Beyond Sports Initiative, University of Alabama   Dr. Brown kicked off a university lecture series in sports media at Texas State University, coordinated by Professor and Regents' Teacher of Advertising Dr. Mike Devlin.   This interview was recorded at Live Oak Studios, School of Journalism and Mass Communication, Texas State University.  I'd love to hear from you - send me a text! Hi Friend - Thanks for listening! Check out my TEDx talk. Why you should take action - then figure it out.

    22 min
  8. Understanding Your Relationship with Money — Financial Psychology with Mary Liz Burns

    10/05/2025

    Understanding Your Relationship with Money — Financial Psychology with Mary Liz Burns

    What’s your relationship with money? Do you worry about having enough? Does money guide all of your decisions?   In this episode of Stories of Change and Creativity, I talk with Mary Liz Burns about the psychology of money. She has more than two decades of experience in personal finance communications and media.  Mary Liz has an MBA with a focus on financial psychology and is a certified senior advisor. After a successful career in corporate communications and public relations — including 22 years with AARP — Mary Liz realized the missing piece in most money conversations: the human connection. Now, she helps people understand their personal “money stories” and develop healthier, more compassionate relationships with money. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why our relationship with money is emotional, not rational — and how fear and shame can hold us backThe four money scripts that shape financial behaviorHow childhood experiences and “financial flashpoints” form our money beliefsHow our relationship with money changes in different stages of lifePractical steps to begin your own money awareness journey — where to start Quotes “My goal from now until the day I die is to reduce the fear and shame we have around money — and to help people have open, honest conversations, starting with themselves.”  — Mary Liz Burns “Financial education alone is not enough to change behavior. We have to bring the human piece to it.”   — Mary Liz Burns Resources & Links Take the free Money Scripts Test (by Dr. Brad Klontz)Learn more about Mary Liz Burns and her work in financial psychology https://www.marylizburns.money/ Note:  This content is not intended as specific legal or financial advice, and listeners should consider their individual circumstances when applying this information and to seek professional assistance if needed.  I'd love to hear from you - send me a text! Hi Friend - Thanks for listening! Check out my TEDx talk. Why you should take action - then figure it out.

    26 min
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5
out of 5
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About

Navigate change, spark creativity, and live your best life.Conversations with students, artists, professors, entrepreneurs, writers and everyday changemakers. Listeners learn:- How to navigate change with courage and clarity- Personal stories of reinvention and creative breakthroughs- Practical tips and productivity hacks- How to overcome self-doubt and unleash creative potential  https://linktr.ee/judyoskam

Information

  • Creator
    Professor Judy Oskam
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2026
  • Episodes
    108
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Stories of Change & Creativity
  • Show Website
    Stories of Change & Creativity