The series features inspiring stories from accomplished alumni, highlighting their journeys, career insights, and the impact they've made in their respective fields

University of Phoenix is proud to announce the launch of its Degrees of Success™ podcast which showcases the inspiring journeys of its extraordinary alumni. Hosted by Freda Richards, the podcast delves into the personal and professional lives of graduates who have overcome challenges and achieved remarkable success. With her genuine enthusiasm for human connection and transparency, Richards brings a unique and engaging perspective to each conversation. The University, which has more than one million alumni, aims to share these incredible stories with a wider audience through the captivating series.

"What makes Degrees of Success™ truly special is the depth of personal experiences our alumni share,” stated Provost and Chief Academic Officer of University of Phoenix John Woods, Ph.D. “These stories go beyond professional achievements; they reveal the heart and determination behind each hard-won success. Listeners will find not only inspiration but also practical insights and advice that can be considered for their own journeys."

Dr. Mautra Jones, featured in the inaugural episode, shared her story of overcoming challenges on her path to leadership as president of Oklahoma City Community College. Despite the obstacles she faced, she says she is grateful for the experiences that shaped her both personally and professionally. "It taught me to not take things for granted, but to appreciate things," she shares in the interview. "I have a victor, not a victim, mentality because I’ve been able to overcome so much. The things I’ve gone through have made me stronger. Now I’m able to take all the things I’ve gone through and hopefully inspire others when I say, if I can make it, you can make it."

The podcast is launching with four episodes – with new episodes released every other week – each featuring a unique and compelling story:

Episode 1: Overcoming Adversity to Lead - Dr. Mautra Jones

In the first episode, Richards interviews Dr. Mautra Jones, a distinguished University of Phoenix alumna and the president of Oklahoma City Community College. Jones made history as the first woman and first person of color to lead the college. Her accolades include being named Oklahoma’s Most Admired CEO for public companies in 2023 by The Journal Record, receiving the 100 Women to Know Across North America Award, and being inducted into the Oklahoma African American Educators Hall of Fame in 2022. Jones's impactful and dynamic leadership has made her one of the nation’s most sought-after thought leaders.

Episode 2: Mentorship and the Violet Movement - Dr. Scott Andrews

Richards talks with Dr. Scott Andrews, the county manager for Doña Ana County in New Mexico. With 21 years of experience in public sector administration, Andrews has provided progressive vision and decisive leadership to local government organizations across Florida, Georgia, and California. A first-generation U.S.-born citizen and college graduate, Andrews honors the memory of his late daughter through The Violet Movement, a non-profit fostering love, kindness, and positive community change.

Episode 3: Marine Corps to Corporate Leader - John Kirch

In this episode, Richards interviews John Kirch, who has been living and working in Lima, Peru, for nearly 30 years. As the Corporate Health, Safety, and Security Manager for Grupo Gloria, Kirch oversees security operations for over 20 companies across seven countries. His career includes pivotal roles in aviation security post-9/11 and service as a United States Marine. Kirch holds two degrees from the University of Phoenix: a bachelor's in organizational security and an MBA.

Episode 4: From Culinary School to Corporate Success - Gary Batara

Richards talks with Gary Batara, a former French chef who transitioned into the marketing world. Growing up in a family of healthcare professionals, Batara pursued his passion for culinary arts, which led him to France. His career evolved from corporate food service to becoming the vice president of marketing at Garten. Batara is also an accomplished author of "Lessons to Inspire: Practical Advice from Successful People."

Watch Degrees of Success™ on YouTube or listen on Spotify, Amazon Music, iHeart Radio, and Podbean.

About University of Phoenix

University of Phoenix innovates to help working adults enhance their careers and develop skills in a rapidly changing world. Flexible schedules, relevant courses, interactive learning, skills-mapped curriculum for our bachelor’s and master’s degree programs and a Career Services for Life® commitment help students more effectively pursue career and personal aspirations while balancing their busy lives. For more information, visit phoenix.edu/blog.html.

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