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

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

2026 Commencement | Doctor of Business Administration: Dr. Paul White’s Journey

Doctor of Business Administration graduate Dr. Paul White explains his path from career shifts to earning a doctoral degree. In this video, we explain Doctor of Business Administration, including the level of effort, discipline, and long-term value of completing the program. Dr. White shares how the Doctor of Business Administration process works, including coursework, dissertation requirements, and time commitment. He also outlines what professionals should consider before pursuing this degree and why continuous learning is essential for career growth. This episode explores key sub-topics such as balancing full-time work with education, learning from failure, and developing consistency. It also highlights outcomes associated with a Doctor of Business Administration, including leadership development, career advancement, and personal transformation. This content is ideal for working professionals, parents returning to school, and individuals considering advanced business degrees.   ⭐️ Key takeaways from this episode: ✓ Never too old to reinvent yourself and pursue education. ✓ Failure is a learning opportunity and part of growth. ✓ Rely on your social network and family support during challenges. ✓ Persistence and discipline are key to completing advanced degrees.   📖 Chapters: Jump to Key Moments 00:00 - Introduction and Dr. White’s background 01:09 - Journey from mortgage industry to higher education 03:00 - The importance of lifelong learning and curiosity 05:25 - Embracing failure as a learning experience 07:09 - The challenges and rewards of pursuing a doctorate 09:36 - The significance of humility and listening to mentors 13:40 - The value of continuous education and curiosity 14:18 - Key lessons for aspiring students 16:50 - Encouragement and final advice for learners 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 [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 | Doctorate in Business Administration: Dr. Bria James Story

Doctorate in Business Administration graduate Dr. Bria James shares her journey from St. Croix to earning her doctoral degree. In this video, we explain Doctorate in Business Administration, including the commitment, challenges, and outcomes of completing a doctoral program. Dr. Bria James earned her Doctorate in Business Administration at age 28 and discusses the role of family support, discipline, and lifelong learning in her success. This episode explores how the Doctorate in Business Administration process works, what students should consider before pursuing it, and why this level of education can shape leadership opportunities and personal growth. We also cover key sub-topics such as dissertation requirements, academic resilience, and the importance of a strong support system. The video highlights how pursuing a Doctorate in Business Administration can lead to career advancement, community impact, and continued academic development. This content is especially relevant for aspiring doctoral students, working professionals considering advanced degrees, and individuals from underrepresented communities exploring higher education paths.   ⭐️ Key takeaways from this episode: ✓ Support from family and community is crucial for success. ✓ Perseverance and faith can help overcome academic challenges. ✓ Lifelong learning is a continuous journey that fuels personal growth. ✓ Celebrating milestones like graduation inspires others to pursue their goals.   📖 Chapters: Jump to Key Moments 00:00 - Celebrating Achievement and Support 02:26 - Journey to Doctorate: Overcoming Challenges 05:53 - The Role of Family and Community 08:18 - Inspiration and Future Aspirations 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/ [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