Degrees of Success Podcast

Briaca Duesette on Career Change and Creative Leadership EP 43

Briaca Duesette shares her journey from healthcare administration and caregiving into entrepreneurship and creative education. In this conversation, Briaca Duesette explains how Animation Discovery Studio was built to help young people explore animation, storytelling, technology, and creative careers. In this video, we explain Briaca Duesette's entrepreneurship journey, including how she transitioned from healthcare into building Animation Discovery Studio and creating opportunities for future animators. Keith Chandler sits down with entrepreneur and University of Phoenix Alumni Luminary Briaca Duesette to discuss career pivots, lifelong learning, leadership, education, and the importance of creating pathways for underserved youth. The conversation explores how animation can become both a creative outlet and a career path, while highlighting the practical steps involved in starting and growing a mission-driven organization. You'll learn: · How Animation Discovery Studio teaches animation and digital creativity to students · What aspiring entrepreneurs should consider when starting a new venture · Why exposure to technology and creative education matters for young people · What outcomes and career paths can emerge from animation, content creation, design, and technology fields Key topics covered: · Career transitions and entrepreneurship · Animation education and youth development · Leadership and team building · University of Phoenix education experience · Mentorship and professional growth · Creative careers and technology opportunities   This episode is especially relevant for: · Entrepreneurs · Career changers · Educators · Parents · Students interested in animation, technology, or creative industries Timestamps 00:00 Building a creative future for young people 01:02 Introduction to Briaca Duesette 03:36 Education journey and early career goals 05:00 Transition from healthcare to technology 06:29 Creating Animation Discovery Studio 08:53 Leadership and team development 10:20 Working with underserved communities 12:35 Briaca's animated projects 13:53 Lessons from University of Phoenix 16:00 Balancing creativity and leadership 17:04 Mentorship and advice 19:04 Managing multiple career paths 21:45 Starting a business and entrepreneurship 23:08 Growth as a founder and CEO 25:18 Motherhood and creative inspiration 27:03 Recognition as an Alumni Luminary 28:00 What's next for Animation Discovery Studio 29:37 Lifelong learning and future goals 30:41 Final thoughts

Entrepreneur Success Story with Fernando Torres | Degrees of Success Podcast | Ep 42

Entrepreneur success story is the focus of this episode, as Fernando Torres explains how he moved from hospitality and corporate sales into business ownership. This entrepreneur success story also shows how education, confidence, and adaptability can shape long-term growth for a service-based company. In this video, we explain entrepreneur success story, including how Fernando Torres built a pest control business, made a career transition, and expanded through leadership and problem solving. The conversation covers how the process works in real life, what it takes to launch a business without formal industry experience, and why decision-making matters when you are building something from the ground up. It also shows the typical paths tied to an entrepreneur success story, including early uncertainty, hands-on learning, hiring your first team member, and growing into a more efficient operation. Key topics in this episode include education and lifelong learning, hospitality and sales experience, pest control operations, business expansion, mentoring, family balance, and personal discipline. Fernando also explains how he uses routines like golf, workouts, and reading to stay focused, generate ideas, and manage stress while leading a business. This episode is relevant for aspiring entrepreneurs, small business owners, and professionals thinking about a career change. It is also useful for anyone who wants to understand how confidence, communication, and persistence can influence business outcomes over time. If you found this conversation helpful, please like, comment, and subscribe for more real business stories and leadership lessons. This entrepreneur success story is a strong example of how learning, adjusting, and staying consistent can create momentum over time. ⭐️ Key takeaways from this episode: ✓ Fernando's journey reflects resilience and adaptability. ✓ Personal growth is essential for success. ✓ Golf serves as a therapeutic outlet for Fernando. ✓ Education and perseverance helped Fernando find his footing. ✓ Entrepreneurship was sparked by a push from his wife. ✓ est control became an opportunity to solve problems. ✓ Success is defined by quality relationships, not size. ✓ Lifelong learning is key to personal and professional growth. 📖 Chapters: Jump to Key Moments 00:00 -  Education, work, and choosing a flexible school 01:00 -  Welcome to Degrees of Success 02:04 -  Golf, focus, and personal reset time 04:57 -  Education, perseverance, and early encouragement 06:38 -  Hospitality, service, and reading people 09:05 -  The push toward entrepreneurship 10:55 -  Starting the pest control business 13:08 -  Learning the industry and building confidence 16:10 -  Early doubts and staying the course 17:11 -  Hiring the first technician 17:45 -  Defining success as a boutique business 20:03 -  Expansion plans and building a team 21:23 -  Family influence and business priorities 23:53 -  Lifelong learning and finishing college 27:00 -  Mentoring staff and leadership growth 29:03 -  Advice for starting something new 30:21 -  Closing thoughts If this helped, please like, comment with your biggest takeaway, and subscribe for more leadership and career conversations. 👉 https://www.youtube.com/@UOPXDegreesOfSuccessPodcast   Learn more about scholarships at UOPX! 👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/info/scholarships.html Alumni Chronicles | Magazine 👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/blog/alumni-chronicles/magazine.html Alumni Chronicles | Main Page  👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/blog/alumni-chronicles.html Explore the Degrees of Success Podcast Page  👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/blog/alumni-chronicles/podcast.html  Explore the University of Phoenix 👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/ ⭐️ Connect with us on social! ►TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@uopx  ► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/universityofphoenix  ► Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uopxalumni/ ► Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uopx/  ► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/school/university-of-phoenix/  ► X: https://x.com/UOPX  Thinking about attending UOPX online? 📱 Request info today: https://www.phoenix.edu/request/request-information  💻 Apply to one of UOPX’s online programs today: https://rb.gy/k0a75c  🎓 Find your degree program University of Phoenix: https://www.phoenix.edu/online-degrees/find-your-program.html

Lessons from Deputy Chief & MBA Graduate Michael Bullock | Degrees of Success Podcast | Ep #41

Leadership is the central theme of this episode, as Michael Bullock shares how emotionally intelligent leadership, communication, and a growth mindset shaped his path in the fire service. Leadership is also the thread that connects his education, his promotions, and the way he manages training, resources, and people in a high-stakes environment. In this video, we explain leadership in fire service and education, including how Michael Bullock moved from frontline emergency response into organizational leadership through practical experience, an MBA, and a commitment to continuous learning. The discussion shows how leadership works when trust, teamwork, and preparedness matter every day, what people should consider when stepping into new responsibilities, why education matters when building credibility and confidence, and what outcomes are often associated with this kind of career path, including promotion, stronger team culture, and broader impact. Michael also explains how he applies lessons from school and the field to real operational decisions, including inventory management, purchasing systems, contract structure, and supporting crews with better tools and processes. He talks about the value of being honest without creating panic, knowing when to pause a difficult conversation, and using failure as part of learning rather than a reason to quit. The episode also highlights the role of family support, professional development, and mentorship in long-term success. This episode is relevant for first responders, public service professionals, adult learners, and anyone considering a return to school while balancing work and family. It is also useful for people interested in leadership development, career advancement, and the connection between experience and education. If this conversation resonates with you, please like, comment, and subscribe, and share this episode with someone who is considering their next step.   ⭐️ Key takeaways from this episode: ✓ Leadership & communication ✓ Ideal day in the fire service ✓ Healthcare and public service ✓ Applying an MBA in the fire service   📖 Chapters: Jump to Key Moments 00:00 - Leadership, communication, and growth mindset 01:03 - Introduction to Michael Bullock 02:03 - Ideal day in fire service leadership 04:09 - Early interest in healthcare and public service 07:48 - How emergency work shapes perspective 08:48 - Returning to school and choosing an MBA 13:08 - Applying the MBA in the fire department 16:10 - Inventory management and process improvements 20:33 - Leadership style and growth mindset 23:22 - University of Phoenix luminary recognition 27:32 - Advice for adult learners 29:55 - Personal and professional milestones 31:36 - Closing thoughts If this helped, please like, comment with your biggest takeaway, and subscribe for more leadership and career conversations. 👉 https://www.youtube.com/@UOPXDegreesOfSuccessPodcast [https://www.youtube.com/@UOPXDegreesOfSuccessPodcast] Learn more about scholarships at UOPX! 👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/info/scholarships.html [https://www.phoenix.edu/info/scholarships.html] Alumni Chronicles | Magazine 👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/blog/alumni-chronicles/magazine.html [https://www.phoenix.edu/blog/alumni-chronicles/magazine.html] Alumni Chronicles | Main Page 👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/blog/alumni-chronicles.html [https://www.phoenix.edu/blog/alumni-chronicles.html] Explore the Degrees of Success Podcast Page 👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/blog/alumni-chronicles/podcast.html [https://www.phoenix.edu/blog/alumni-chronicles/podcast.html] Explore the University of Phoenix 👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/ [https://www.phoenix.edu/] ⭐️ Connect with us on social! ►TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@uopx [https://www.tiktok.com/@uopx] ► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/universityofphoenix [https://www.facebook.com/universityofphoenix] ► Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uopxalumni/ [https://www.instagram.com/uopxalumni/] ► Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uopx/ [https://www.instagram.com/uopx/] ► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/school/university-of-phoenix/ [https://www.linkedin.com/school/university-of-phoenix/] ► X: https://x.com/UOPX [https://x.com/UOPX] Thinking about attending UOPX online? 📱 Request info today: https://www.phoenix.edu/request/request-information 💻 Apply to one of UOPX’s online programs today: https://rb.gy/k0a75c [https://rb.gy/k0a75c] 🎓 Find your degree program University of Phoenix: https://www.phoenix.edu/online-degrees/find-your-program.html

2026 Commencement | Associate Degree in Business: Deann Smith’s Comeback Story

Associate Degree in Business graduate Deann Smith shares how she overcame major life challenges to earn her first college degree. In this video, we explain Associate Degree in Business, including how education can create new opportunities and personal transformation. Deann discusses how the Associate Degree in Business program works, what it takes to stay consistent, and what individuals should consider when returning to school after difficult life circumstances. Her journey highlights why education matters as a tool for rebuilding stability and creating long-term career paths. This episode covers key sub-topics such as overcoming adversity, balancing parenthood and education, and developing personal discipline. It also explores the outcomes associated with earning an Associate Degree in Business, including increased confidence, career mobility, and the ability to pursue further education. This video is relevant for adult learners, individuals facing setbacks, and anyone considering going back to school for the first time.   ⭐️ Key takeaways from this episode: ✓ Deann's background and challenges ✓ The role of faith and community support ✓ The importance of grit and self-belief ✓ Future plans and aspirations   📖 Chapters: Jump to Key Moments 00:00 - Overcoming Adversity: A Journey from Homelessness to Graduation 02:33 - The Power of Grit and Self-Discovery 05:53 - Faith and Support: The Role of God and Community 07:47 - Inspiring the Next Generation: Lessons for My Children 10:15 - Future Aspirations: Building a Shelter and Continuing Education 12:51 - Encouragement for Others: Taking the Leap of Faith If this helped, please like, comment with your biggest takeaway, and subscribe for more leadership and career conversations. 👉 https://www.youtube.com/@UOPXDegreesOfSuccessPodcast [https://www.youtube.com/@UOPXDegreesOfSuccessPodcast] Learn more about scholarships at UOPX! 👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/info/scholarships.html [https://www.phoenix.edu/info/scholarships.html] Alumni Chronicles | Magazine 👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/blog/alumni-chronicles/magazine.html Alumni Chronicles | Main Page 👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/blog/alumni-chronicles.html [https://www.phoenix.edu/blog/alumni-chronicles.html] Explore the Degrees of Success Podcast Page 👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/blog/alumni-chronicles/podcast.html [https://www.phoenix.edu/blog/alumni-chronicles/podcast.html]   Explore the University of Phoenix 👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/ [https://www.phoenix.edu/] ⭐️ Connect with us on social! ►TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@uopx [https://www.tiktok.com/@uopx] ► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/universityofphoenix [https://www.facebook.com/universityofphoenix] ► Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uopxalumni/ [https://www.instagram.com/uopxalumni/] ► Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uopx/ [https://www.instagram.com/uopx/] ► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/school/university-of-phoenix/ [https://www.linkedin.com/school/university-of-phoenix/] ► X: https://x.com/UOPX Thinking about attending UOPX online? 📱 Request info today: https://www.phoenix.edu/request/request-information [https://www.phoenix.edu/request/request-information] 💻 Apply to one of UOPX’s online programs today: https://rb.gy/k0a75c [https://rb.gy/k0a75c] 🎓 Find your degree program University of Phoenix: https://www.phoenix.edu/online-degrees/find-your-program.html

2026 Commencement | Master of Health Administration: Terry Setzer Career Growth

Master of Health Administration graduate Terry Setzer shares how he advanced his healthcare career through education. In this video, we explain Master of Health Administration, including how the program builds leadership skills and industry knowledge. Terry explains how the Master of Health Administration works, what professionals should consider before enrolling, and why credentials are important in healthcare leadership roles. His experience highlights the connection between education and career advancement in complex healthcare systems. This episode covers key sub-topics such as competency-based learning, healthcare leadership requirements, and applying academic knowledge in real-world settings. It also outlines outcomes associated with a Master of Health Administration, including expanded career opportunities, leadership roles, and future doctoral pathways. This video is relevant for healthcare professionals, working adults, and individuals seeking leadership roles in medical or administrative settings.   ⭐️ Key takeaways from this episode: ✓ Healthcare administration career path ✓ The value of competency-based education ✓ The importance of credentials and empathy in healthcare ✓ Balancing work, life, and education ✓ Future ambitions in healthcare and education   📖 Chapters: Jump to Key Moments 00:00 - The Journey to Graduation 00:00 - Choosing the Right Program 00:00 - The Importance of Credentials 00:00 - Mentorship and Community Support 00:00 - Looking Ahead: Future Goals and Advice If this episode helped, please like, comment with your biggest takeaway, and subscribe for more leadership and career conversations.   👉 https://www.youtube.com/@UOPXDegreesOfSuccessPodcast Learn more about scholarships at UOPX! 👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/info/scholarships.html [https://www.phoenix.edu/info/scholarships.html] Alumni Chronicles | Magazine 👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/blog/alumni-chronicles/magazine.html Alumni Chronicles | Main Page 👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/blog/alumni-chronicles.html [https://www.phoenix.edu/blog/alumni-chronicles.html] Explore the Degrees of Success Podcast Page 👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/blog/alumni-chronicles/podcast.html [https://www.phoenix.edu/blog/alumni-chronicles/podcast.html] Explore the University of Phoenix 👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/ [https://www.phoenix.edu/] ⭐️ Connect with us on social! ►TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@uopx [https://www.tiktok.com/@uopx] ► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/universityofphoenix [https://www.facebook.com/universityofphoenix] ► Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uopxalumni/ [https://www.instagram.com/uopxalumni/] ► Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uopx/ [https://www.instagram.com/uopx/] ► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/school/university-of-phoenix/ [https://www.linkedin.com/school/university-of-phoenix/] ► X: https://x.com/UOPX Thinking about attending UOPX online? 📱 Request info today: https://www.phoenix.edu/request/request-information [https://www.phoenix.edu/request/request-information] 💻 Apply to one of UOPX’s online programs today: https://rb.gy/k0a75c [https://rb.gy/k0a75c]   🎓 Find your degree program University of Phoenix: https://www.phoenix.edu/online-degrees/find-your-program.html