Unstoppable Stories

University of Maryland Global Campus
  • 5.0 (2)
  • SELF-IMPROVEMENT
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

Welcome to UMGC’s "Unstoppable Stories," a podcast that showcases extraordinary journeys of individuals who turned their dreams into reality. Join hosts Lauren Cardillo and Nathan James as they sit down with inspiring people who have broken barriers, defied expectations, and achieved remarkable success in their fields. In each episode, Lauren and Nathan dive deep into the real, unvarnished stories behind their guests' accomplishments. From military veterans turned entrepreneurs to working parents who became industry leaders, these inspiring individuals share the obstacles they overcame and the pivotal moments that shaped their paths to success. They offer compelling insights for anyone looking to transform their own life and achieve their dreams. "Unstoppable Stories" goes beyond the highlight reel to explore the grit, determination, and resilience it takes to achieve your goals. Whether you're a student, career changer, or simply someone seeking inspiration, these powerful narratives prove that with dedication and perseverance, there's no limit to what you can achieve.

  1. 2D AGO

    Unstoppable Stories S. 2 Ep. 7: Fairways and Friendships, Lessons Beyond the Score with Ben Thapa

    Host Nathan James sits down with systems engineer and UMGC alumnus, Ben Thapa to trace the thread from Nepal to night classes, from a first IT role to a multi decade career built on routine, persistence, and family support. Ben explains how early mornings, long commutes, and library nights created momentum, and why staying curious kept doors opening at work and at school. He shares the story behind playing golf in all 50 states and on every continent, including a bucket list swing in Antarctica, and how the real goal was never the scorecard but the friendships and check ins that followed. Along the way he highlights the master’s decision, the campus resources that helped, and a people first mindset that turns busy schedules into lasting community. Listen for lessons on structure, gratitude, and connection that apply far beyond the fairway. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments! To learn more about UMGC, visit: UMGC.edu/Unstoppable. Host: Nathan James Guest: Ben Thapa, Systems Engineer, Author, UMGC alumnus Time Stamps & Show Notes:  (00:00 - 00:22) People first (00:22 - 00:53) Welcome (00:54 - 03:10) Golf origins (03:11 - 05:04) Work and UMGC (05:05 - 09:12) Daily grind (09:13 - 12:34) Family view (12:35 - 16:08) First IT role (16:09 - 20:32) Master’s decision (20:33 - 24:10) 50 states, 7 continents (24:11 - 29:39) Staying in touch (29:40 - 32:43) Connection over loneliness (32:44 - 33:32) Gratitude and close

    32 min

  2. MAR 25

    Unstoppable Stories S. 2 Ep. 6: Finding Meaning Through Family and Community with Jeannie Lum

    In this episode of Unstoppable Stories, UMGC alumna, Jeannie Lum, joins host Lauren Cardillo to share her story of resilience, compassion, and cultural connection. Born in the Philippines and raised as a military kid, Jeannie’s journey has been defined by movement, adaptability, and heart. When her father decided to stop relocating their family, Jeannie learned the power of staying grounded, keeping connected through collect calls, calling cards, and even pottery, a creative bond she still treasures today. Now living in Oahu, Hawaii with her two autistic daughters, Jeannie balances motherhood, advocacy, and her role as a former Outreach Partnership Specialist at UMGC. She opens up about embracing challenges, finding purpose through community, and learning to let the rhythm of life, like the ocean, carry her forward. Jeannie’s story is a reminder that strength isn’t just about perseverance; it’s about leading with love, embracing culture, and staying rooted no matter where the tide takes you. Be sure to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments for more unstoppable stories! To learn more about UMGC, visit: UMGC.edu/Unstoppable  Connect with Jeannie on LinkedIn! https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeanniealum/ Host: Lauren Cardillo Guest: Jeannie Lum (Former Outreach Partnership Specialist, UMGC Alumnas) Time Stamps & Show Notes:  (00:00 - 00:49) Introduction (00:50 - 04:12) Growing Up (04:13 - 05:28) Early Responsibilities  (05:29 - 06:55) It Started With Family (06:56 - 08:34) Miss Aloha (08:35 - 13:41) The Accidental Pathway (13:42 - 19:09) Outreach Partnership Specialist (19:10 - 20:55) Preventing Burn Out (20:56 - 30:00) Now From The NICU (30:01 - 32:18) Raising Children (32:19 - 35:30) Water is Life (35:30 - 36:15) Conclusion

    33 min

  3. MAR 11

    Unstoppable Stories S. 2 Ep. 5: Routines and Redemption: Learning That Leads with Gavata Smith

    Host Nathan James sits down with UMGC student and project manager, Gavata Smith, to trace a path built on faith, forgiveness, and steady self-improvement. She shares how her mother’s addiction, her own early motherhood and other hard seasons sharpened her resolve, why telling the truth about past mistakes gives her family and community real hope, and how healing looks when love and accountability meet. Gavata breaks down a late-career pivot into technology, the certification stack that keeps her relevant in GovCon, and the time management system that lets work, school, and family coexist. She also explains how service keeps her grounded, from mentoring justice-involved women to relaunching a domestic violence ministry and helping job seekers with stronger résumés and interviews. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments! To learn more about UMGC, visit: UMGC.edu/Unstoppable. Host: Nathan James Guest: Gavata Smith, Project Manager and UMGC student Time Stamps & Show Notes:  (00:00 - 01:30) Intro and transparency  (01:30 - 05:13) Early lessons  (05:14 - 08:00) Tech break  (08:01 - 11:00) Cert stack & routines  (11:01 - 13:55) YouTube tips  (13:56 - 16:46) Family healing  (16:47 - 21:08) Service work  (21:09 - 24:39) IC pivot  (24:40 - 28:00) Volunteer mindset  (28:01 - 30:53) Reflections and next steps

    31 min

  4. FEB 25

    Unstoppable Stories S. 2 Ep. 4: From East Baltimore to the Boardroom, Same Heartbeat w/ Erika Lane

    Host Lauren Cardillo sits down with UMGC alumna and HR leader, Erika Lane to trace the path from East Baltimore beginnings to guiding people strategy at a major airline. Erika explains how she refused labels, chose the grind over complaints, and turned early customer service work into leadership by practicing empathy and composure. She shares the mentors and sponsors who opened doors, why she runs her life like a project manager, and how inclusive leadership starts with relatability and service. Along the way she breaks down her ‘stay ready’ system, updated materials, active networking, and the family legacy that keeps her anchored as the goals move forward. Listen for lessons on resilience, ownership, and building community that apply in any industry. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments! To learn more about UMGC, visit: UMGC.edu/Unstoppable. Host: Lauren Cardillo Guest: Erika Lane, Human Resources leader, UMGC alumna Time Stamps & Show Notes:  (00:00 - 03:27) Origin Story (03:28 - 07:46) First Job & Mentorship (07:47 - 09:59) Sponsorship vs. Mentorship (10:00 - 13:57) Staying Ready (13:58 - 18:09) Work-Life Integration (18:10 - 21:04) Back to School (21:05 - 25:40) Leading with Empathy (25:41 - 27:32) No Ceilings (27:33 - 29:26) Texas Transition (29:27 - 31:12) Future Plans (31:13 - 34:16) Loving the Work (34:17 - 36:13) Navigating "The Only" (36:14 - 39:19) Owning Choices & Closing

    39 min

  5. FEB 11

    Unstoppable Stories S. 2 Ep. 3: Speaking the Language of Care: Listening and Learning w/ Pedro Diaz

    In this episode of Unstoppable Stories, Pedro Diaz, Director of Language and Guest Services at Children’s National Hospital and proud UMGC alumnus, joins host Nathan James, to share his remarkable journey of compassion, connection, and leadership in healthcare. After recognizing the deep disconnect between non-English-speaking patients and the U.S. healthcare system, Diaz made it his mission to bridge that gap through empathy, cultural awareness, and trust. He opens up about what it means to truly listen to learn rather than just listen to respond, and how taking the time to understand people’s needs and worries can transform care on every level. From leading multilingual initiatives to empowering others through education and teamwork, Diaz reminds us that leadership isn’t defined by titles, it’s a mindset built on influence, humility, and heart. This inspiring conversation is a powerful reminder that in any career or stage of life, connection is the foundation of impact. Be sure to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments for more unstoppable stories! To learn more about UMGC, visit: UMGC.edu/Unstoppable   Learn how you can support CNH at: https://www.childrensnational.org/make-a-difference  Host: Nathan James Guest: Pedro Diaz (Director of Language & Guest Services, Children’s National Hospital) Time Stamps & Show Notes:  (00:00 - 01:02) Introduction (01:03 - 06:16) The Backstory (06:17 - 10:24) Igniting the Passion (10:25 - 13:31) Helping vs Connecting (13:32 - 15:03) Stories of Care (15:04 - 16:34) Polylingual (16:35 - 21:02) Journey Into Leadership (21:03 - 24:26) Representation in Leadership (24:27 - 27:00) Lesson Application (27:01 - 30:52) Diaz’s Advice (30:53 - 33:57) Everything Happens for a Reason (33:58 - 36:20) How We Can Support (36:21 - 36:56) Closing

    37 min

  6. JAN 28

    Unstoppable Stories - S.2 Ep. 2: Finding Opportunity in Every Room w/ Ronnette Meyers

    On this week’s Unstoppable Stories, Lauren Cardillo connects with UMGC alumna, Ronnette Meyers. She shares her unstoppable journey from braiding hair with her grandma to building JLAN Solutions, LLC. and leaving a lasting impact in her community. Growing up in Germany as a military kid and later leaving her government job to work alongside her mom in back-office support, Ronnette learned the value of dedicated time, perseverance, and making the most of every opportunity.  Along the way, she earned the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award for volunteer service, a recognition of her dedication to helping others. In this episode, she opens up about the challenges she faced, the lessons she learned from her upbringing and early work experiences, and how she continues to inspire and empower others through her entrepreneurial spirit, advocacy, and leadership. This conversation is full of practical advice and motivational insights for anyone looking to turn their passion into impact. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments! To learn more about UMGC, visit: UMGC.edu/Unstoppable Connect With Ronnette Meyers on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronnette-meyers-jlan/  Host: Lauren Cardillo Guest: Ronnette Meyers (CEO & President of JLAN Solutions, LLC. UMGC Alumnas) Time Stamps & Show Notes:  (00:00 - 00:40) Introduction (00:41 - 05:12) Instilling Entrepreneurship Early On (05:13 - 08:07) Learning How To Climb (08:08 - 10:36) Juggling Uncertainty (10:37 - 13:06) A Single Point Of Failure (13:07 - 14:53) The Room Where It Happens (14:54 - 16:05) About JLAN Solutions (16:06 - 18:30) Small Business Advocation (18:31 - 21:05) A Voice To Power (21:06 - 25:04) The Degree Journey (25:05 - 30:08) The Child Rundown (30:09 - 30:28) Shutdown Reality (30:29 - 33:46) Where is the Future? (33:47 - 34:57) Step Out On Faith (34:58 - 35:47) Closing

    36 min

  7. JAN 14

    Unstoppable Stories - S. 2 Ep. 1: Influencing the Big Screen to Make War Movies Human w/ Dale Dye

    Host Lauren Cardillo sits down with producer, actor, author, retired Marine and UMGC alumnus, Dale Dye to trace the thread from Vietnam combat tours to Hollywood soundstages. Dale explains how a professor opened the door to writing, how a chance pitch led to three weeks in the jungle with 33 actors and why doing it right matters when stories shape how audiences see service and sacrifice.  He breaks down staging D-Day for the film, Saving Private Ryan, as well as the lasting impact he’s made on other landmark film and television projects including Platoon, Band of Brothers, The Masters of Air and The Pacific. He details the boot camp method that forges ensembles, and the discipline that keeps egos in check to make all of this possible. Listen for lessons on tenacity, teamwork, and purpose that apply far beyond the set. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments! To learn more about UMGC, visit: UMGC.edu/Unstoppable   Host: Lauren Cardillo Guest: Dale Dye, Producer, Actor, Author, Retired Marine & UMGC Alumnus Time Stamps & Show Notes:  (00:00 - 02:23) Origins and storyteller drive (02:24 - 06:40) UMGC discovery, mentors, serious reading (06:41 - 08:19) First novel and momentum (08:20 - 11:30) Why war films missed, fix from the inside (11:31 - 15:14) Oliver Stone opening, Platoon boot camp (15:15 - 19:26) Cultural impact, mission to honor service (19:27 - 23:46) Values on screen, ensemble over individual (23:47 - 29:00) Saving Private Ryan, D Day orchestration (29:01 - 33:11) One take lessons, on camera work (33:12 - 36:40) Masters of the Air, research method (36:41 - 39:11) Projects and lessons, handling critique (39:12 - 42:36) UMGC advantage, transition advice, close

    40 min

  8. 12/03/2025

    Unstoppable Stories - Episode 24: A Journey Through Cybersecurity, Mentorship & Motherhood

    In this episode of Unstoppable Stories, host Lauren Cardillo is joined by Danielle Rowell, a Chief Information Security Officer with Office of Personnel Management (OPM) and UMGC alumna. Danielle shares her story about how she went from being an events planner to becoming an executive within the cybersecurity industry, all while raising a family. Danielle has worked hard in order to achieve where she is. She began without any experience or certifications for cybersecurity, but found a passion for the industry and did everything she needed to do in order to be a part of it. Danielle speaks about how her hard-working ethics lead her to where she is today, as well as what she believes it means to be a great leader. Make sure to tune in to hear her story about persistence and success! Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments! To learn more about UMGC, visit: UMGC.edu/Unstoppable Time Stamps:  00:00 Intro 00:51 Going from Communications to Cybersecurity 2:59 The Appeal of Cybersecurity 4:32 Finding Danielle’s first job in Cyber 6:06 Getting Certifications 7:02 Staying Motivated 7:54 Danielle Proving Herself to her Clients and Coworkers 8:58 Planning out Danielle’s Future Career 10:16 Danielle’s Life Working and Raising a Family 12:36 Switching Positions for Better Work/life Balance 13:41 Being in a Leadership Role 15:31 Advice to Others 16:32 Getting Out of Your Comfort Zone 18:58 Surprising Things about Danielle's Position 21:01 Becoming a Life Coach and Mentor 23:20 When to Step Out of a Leadership Role 24:26 Goals for the Future 25:37 Danielle’s Mom’s Effect on her Growth 27:45 Mentors Throughout Danielle's Life 28:49 Working for a Large Organization 30:58 Tips on making it 31:55 Outro

    32 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Welcome to UMGC’s "Unstoppable Stories," a podcast that showcases extraordinary journeys of individuals who turned their dreams into reality. Join hosts Lauren Cardillo and Nathan James as they sit down with inspiring people who have broken barriers, defied expectations, and achieved remarkable success in their fields. In each episode, Lauren and Nathan dive deep into the real, unvarnished stories behind their guests' accomplishments. From military veterans turned entrepreneurs to working parents who became industry leaders, these inspiring individuals share the obstacles they overcame and the pivotal moments that shaped their paths to success. They offer compelling insights for anyone looking to transform their own life and achieve their dreams. "Unstoppable Stories" goes beyond the highlight reel to explore the grit, determination, and resilience it takes to achieve your goals. Whether you're a student, career changer, or simply someone seeking inspiration, these powerful narratives prove that with dedication and perseverance, there's no limit to what you can achieve.

Information

  • Creator
    University of Maryland Global Campus
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    31
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Unstoppable Stories