We do that! Careers that make a difference

Eric Legg
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  • EDUCATION
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

Dr. Eric Legg talks with professionals about their journey to and at Arizona State University, their current careers, and how they make an impact on the world. Guests are alumni, faculty/staff, and partners of ASU’s School of Community Resources & Development.

  1. Taylor Wilson: A Career in Adaptive Sports and Boston Marathons

    12/01/2025

    Taylor Wilson: A Career in Adaptive Sports and Boston Marathons

    Taylor Wilson, the current Para and Adaptive Program Manager for the Boston Athletic Association, shares her journey from Delaware and Arizona to managing adaptive sports programs for the Boston Marathon. Originally a chemical engineering major, Taylor discovered recreational therapy through a part-time job at a recreation center. She changed her major, interned, and eventually took a full-time job at Arizona Disabled Sports. Now overseeing adaptive d athletes for the Boston Athletic Association, which produces the Boston Marathon, Taylor highlights the importance of making connections in the field and provides insights into her career transition, day-to-day responsibilities, and the rewarding aspects of her job. She also emphasizes the life-changing impact of adaptive sports for athletes with disabilities.

    15 min
  2. Nate Shrake: Emo Kid to Marine Rocker, Firefighter to Recreation Therapist

    09/30/2025

    Nate Shrake: Emo Kid to Marine Rocker, Firefighter to Recreation Therapist

    Nate Shrake went from an awkward emo kid to a Marine, firefighter, and now a recreation therapist helping veterans. He talks about failure, career pivots, and the joy of working with the elderly. Along the way, he shares his passion for music, writing, and the power of one-on-one human connection.

    37 min
  3. Education and Animal Love: Audrey's Journey at Arizona Humane Society

    08/06/2025

    Education and Animal Love: Audrey's Journey at Arizona Humane Society

    In this podcast episode, Audrey Gowey, the Senior Manager of Animal Care and Experience Behavior and Pet Training at Arizona Humane Society, discusses her unique career path. Starting in nursing, Audrey transitioned intoanimal welfare, spurred by her passion for animals and advice from a friend. She pursued a degree in nonprofit management to enhance her career. Audreyhighlights the importance of reliability, teamwork, and continuous improvement. She shares career advice, her love for both dogs and cats, and the rewardingyet challenging aspects of her job. Audrey's story underscores the impact of education and real-life experience in shaping a fulfilling career.

    27 min
  4. A career in campus recreation with Joseph Alexis

    06/11/2025

    A career in campus recreation with Joseph Alexis

    In this episode, Dr. Eric Legg interviews Joseph Alexis. The discussion focuses on the various challenges of finding a job and moving from part-time to full-time employment. Joseph shares his experience growing up in multiple states as a military child and his transition to ASU, where he majored in sports management. He details his first job at Scottsdale Parks and Recreation, working in adult sports, and later at the McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park. Joseph recounts his journey to becoming the Sports and Summer Programs Manager at Northern Arizona University, emphasizing the significance of sports clubs, intramurals, and summer camp programs. He offers advice for students interested in similar career paths and highlights the importance of mentorship and early involvement in professional organizations like NIRSA. The episode is a deep dive into Joseph's journey, career growth, and the valuable insights he offers to aspiring professionals.

    47 min
  5. Bjorn Peterson: On Education, Community, and Poetry

    01/13/2025

    Bjorn Peterson: On Education, Community, and Poetry

    In this episode, Dr. Bjorn Peterson, a published poet and leader in community transformation, shares his life journey from earning a PhD to his current work with the international humanitarian organization Nonviolent Peaceforce. He talks about the importance of community work, listening, and humility in conflict resolution and violence prevention. Dr. Peterson also delves into his poetic inspirations and reads from his book 'A Beautiful Amble,' showing the intersection of art and community work. The conversation provides valuable insights for anyone interested in community development, peacebuilding, and education.

    37 min
  6. Snake encounters and career discoveries: Ryanne Crary’s career in outdoor programming

    11/12/2024

    Snake encounters and career discoveries: Ryanne Crary’s career in outdoor programming

    In this episode of We Do That: Careers That Make a Difference,' Dr. Eric Legg  talks with Ryanne Crary, a 2020 graduate in Parks and Recreation Management program. Ryanne shares her journey from growing up on a farm in northern Arizona to her current role as an outdoor programming specialist for Prescott Valley. She reflects on her early experiences as a recreation aide, her transformative time at Arizona State University, and her various jobs, including a role at the Phoenix Zoo. Ryanne offers valuable advice for those interested in similar careers and highlights the importance of promoting careers in Parks and Recreation. The episode also touches on her favorite events, the benefits of outdoor programs for children, and her beloved bearded dragon, Lizzy.

    26 min
  7. From classroom to courtside: Eli Burk’s coaching journey

    09/04/2024

    From classroom to courtside: Eli Burk’s coaching journey

    In this episode of 'We Do That: Careers That Make a Difference,' Dr. Eric Legg interviews Eli Burk, the assistant basketball coach at Glendale Community College and Arizona State University graduate. Eli shares his journey from growing up in California, to his current role, emphasizing the critical role of networking, volunteering, and on-the-job learning. He discusses the impact of sports on family trajectories and reflects on his experiences with travel sports, youth coaching, and international training camps. Eli also gives valuable advice to aspiring coaches and highlights the transformative power of sports in shaping lives.

    38 min
  8. Initiative and Exploration: Diana Hernandez's Global Journey

    08/08/2024

    Initiative and Exploration: Diana Hernandez's Global Journey

    Diana Hernandez shares her remarkable journey from growing up in Mexico to moving to the U.S., attending parts of high school in China, and attending Arizona State University. She highlights the importance of taking initiative, building relationships, and exploring diverse opportunities. Diana also discusses how her background in tourism has led to a successful career in technology, showing how careers can take non-linear paths. She offers valuable advice for current students, emphasizing the importance of getting involved, asking questions, and enjoying the college experience. Diana's story is one of adaptability, perseverance, and seizing every opportunity.

    44 min
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About

Dr. Eric Legg talks with professionals about their journey to and at Arizona State University, their current careers, and how they make an impact on the world. Guests are alumni, faculty/staff, and partners of ASU’s School of Community Resources & Development.

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