The Everyday Scholar

American Public University

How does arts and humanities impact our everyday living? American Public University brings you The Everyday Scholar, a podcast featuring conversations with experts about the importance of cultural awareness and exposure, how skills from the arts and humanities can assist career progression, and a lot more. To learn more, visit StudyatAPU.com.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  1. 4D AGO

    Voices in the Field: Building a 20-Year Career in Sports with Scott MacDonald | EP127

    In this episode of Voices in the Field, hosts Jim Reese and Britt sit down with Scott MacDonald, Senior Director of Youth Partnerships for the Cleveland Cavaliers, to trace his 20+ year journey in professional sports. Scott shares how a high school job-shadowing experience and a love of sports led him to Ohio University, an internship with the Pittsburgh Steelers, and a formative stint in minor league baseball where he learned to “sell a $6 ticket” and, more importantly, to sell himself. Along the way, he emphasizes the role of grit, mentorship, and personal branding, as well as the power of relationships and being coachable in a highly competitive industry.  Scott also gives an inside look at how the Cavs approach youth sports and fan development, guided by a simple but powerful matrix: friends, swag, snacks, and fun. He explains how the organization partners with rec centers, YMCAs, Boys & Girls Clubs, and Special Olympics to support kids, empower parents, and equip coaches—creating first-class experiences that build lifelong fans and better humans, not just better athletes. With reflections on servant leadership, the impact of commissioners like Adam Silver, and practical advice for students aspiring to work in sports, the episode is a thoughtful, energetic exploration of what it means to lead with humility, hustle, and heart.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    39 min

  2. SEP 29

    Voices in the Field: Chris Canty on Building a Sports Media Career | EP126

    In this Voices in the Field episode, hosts Dr. Jim Reese and Dr. Brittany Jacobs sit down with Chris Canty, Super Bowl XLVI champion, ESPN radio host, and former University of Virginia standout. Canty reflects on his transition from the NFL to sports media, sharing how building “mouth memory,” staying coachable, and putting in the reps helped him succeed beyond the field.  Canty discusses the challenges athletes face when careers end, the importance of finding new communities, and how team chemistry extends to broadcast studios. Chris also explores player empowerment, NIL’s impact on collegiate sports, and the expanding career paths available in today’s industry. For students and aspiring professionals, he offers practical advice on seizing opportunities, investing in personal growth, and leading with resilience.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    33 min

  3. AUG 22

    Building a Career in Sports Management with Kellie Cavalier | EP125

    In this Voices in the Field episode, hosts Jim Reese and Dr. Brittany Jacobs welcome Kellie Cavalier, VP of Pro Ops and Events at League One Volleyball. She reflects on her journey from global sport experiences and event operations at RFK Stadium to helping build a professional volleyball league that’s reshaping the landscape of women’s sports.  Kellie discusses the unique challenges of launching a startup league, the importance of mentorship and hands-on learning, and how passion drives success in the industry. She also shares advice for students and early-career professionals on finding their path in sports management.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    38 min

  4. JUL 24

    Voices in the Field: Inside Game Day with Notre Dame’s Scott Carter | EP124

    What does it take to run game day at Notre Dame? In this episode of Voices in the Field, hosts Dr. Jim Reese and Dr. Brittany Jacobs welcome Scott Carter, Notre Dame’s Assistant Athletic Director for Event and Game Management, for a dive into the fast-paced, behind-the-scenes world of college sports.    From scrubbing cleats and dishes in a minor league clubhouse to leading event operations at one of the most iconic universities in the country, Scott shares his winding career path, the real challenges of event logistics, and why learning what you don’t want to do can shape your future. Whether you're a sport management student, a curious fan, or an aspiring AD, this episode delivers honest insights, unexpected advice, and a front-row seat to the teamwork that makes game day happen.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    33 min

  5. JUN 26

    Voices in the Field: Power of Persistence | EP123

    In this episode, APU’s Jim Reese and Brittany Jacobs sit down with Donte Hewlett, General Manager at Lucky Strike in Durham, North Carolina. Donte shares his unfiltered and deeply human story of rising through the ranks in the sports and food & beverage industries – from grinding in sales for MLB teams to running large-scale food and beverage operations across the country.  With refreshing honesty, he discusses professional setbacks, navigating corporate politics, building meaningful relationships, and the importance of knowing your worth. Donte’s story is a powerful reminder that success rarely follows a straight line – and that resilience, integrity, and connection often matter more than titles.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    40 min

  6. MAY 2

    The Value of AI in Higher Education and Beyond | EP122

    In this episode, APU’s Dr. Bjorn Mercer moderates a compelling conversation with Nuno Fernandes, President of American Public University System, and Lori Glover, J.D., Managing Director, Global Strategic Alliances, MIT's Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory (CSAIL), one of the most prominent AI research laboratories worldwide. The discussion explores the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in higher education and beyond.   Fernandes and Glover highlight how AI can personalize learning experiences, democratize access to knowledge, and reshape the workforce by automating routine tasks and augmenting human decision making. They emphasize the importance of domain expertise, ethical AI use, and equipping both students and faculty with tools to thrive in an AI-driven future. Real-world applications—ranging from pilot training to streamlining college credit transfers—showcase how AI is already enhancing education and workplace efficiency.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    28 min

  7. MAR 6

    Lotus in the Desert: The Untold Story of Buddhist Nuns  | EP121

    Dr. Bjorn Mercer chats with APU professor Dr. Chapla Verma about her forthcoming book “Lotus in the Desert-Mahapajapati: A Theravada Nunnery in California,” which explores the challenges and resilience of Theravada Buddhist nuns, particularly those at the Mahapajapati Monastery in California. Verma shares how she became interested in this topic and dives into the struggles these women face in a tradition where full ordination for nuns has often been restricted or outright denied, especially in places like Myanmar and Thailand. Through compelling personal stories, she highlights the perseverance of these nuns as they navigate strict monastic precepts, social barriers, and institutional resistance in their pursuit of equality within Buddhism. Their experiences shed light on the broader conversation around religious freedom, gender disparity, and the struggle for recognition in deeply rooted traditions.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    34 min

  8. JAN 23

    From Likes to LinkedIn: Using Social Media to Unlock Professional Opportunities | EP120

    What does it take to stand out in today’s digital landscape? In this engaging conversation, Linda Ashar speaks with Wes O'Donnell – military veteran, AMU alum, filmmaker, and director of the social media team at American Public University – about the power of social media in identifying career opportunities. Wes shares valuable strategies for students and professionals to build their professional network, leverage social media platforms, and showcase their skills through e-portfolios. From crafting compelling LinkedIn profiles to leveraging AI for content creation, Wes provides practical insights and real-world experiences to help listeners navigate the evolving online professional space with confidence. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    37 min
See All (128)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

How does arts and humanities impact our everyday living? American Public University brings you The Everyday Scholar, a podcast featuring conversations with experts about the importance of cultural awareness and exposure, how skills from the arts and humanities can assist career progression, and a lot more. To learn more, visit StudyatAPU.com.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Information

  • Creator
    American Public University
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2025
  • Episodes
    128
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © American Public University
  • Show Website
    The Everyday Scholar