In this episode of Always Blue, host Tim Rahilly and co-host Meg Wilcox sit down with Mount Royal University psychology professor Dan Devoe to explore his engaging, "Costco-sample" approach to teaching complex science and research methods. The conversation dives into pressing topics surrounding student well-being, the rise of self-diagnosis, and how concepts like "social fuel" can help combat modern isolation. Dr. DeVoe also shares a look into his creative side as a children's book author and illustrator, explaining how he weaves lessons on resilience and companionship into whimsical stories.

Produced by Mount Royal University's Office of Alumni Relations

Recorded live at the Community Podcast Initiative Studios (https://thepodcaststudio.ca/)

In this episode of Always Blue, President Tim Rahilly sits down with Chad London (Vice President, Academic and Provost) and Melanie Rogers (Vice President, Community Engagement) to discuss the institution's evolution and strategic future.

Always Blue is recorded at the Community Podcast Initiative Studio (CPI) at MRU. For more information about CPI visit thepodcaststudio.ca

In this episode of Always Blue, Mount Royal University President Tim Rahilly and Melanie Rogers, VP, Community Engagement sit down with Sarah Hayes, Executive Vice President of Foundation, Culture & Heritage at the Calgary Stampede and Executive Director of the Calgary Stampede Foundation.

Sarah shares her journey from arriving in Calgary during Stampede week as a child to helping shape one of Canada's most iconic community institutions. Together, they explore the power of volunteerism, philanthropy, youth leadership, music, and community connection — from the Calgary Stampede's year-round impact to the visionary SAM Centre and the future of Calgary itself. Listen for a heartfelt conversation about civic pride, belonging, and what makes Calgary a city people want to build together.

Produced by Mount Royal University's Office of Alumni Relations

Recorded live at the Community Podcast Initiative Studios (https://thepodcaststudio.ca/)

In this episode of Always Blue, Tim and Scott Cruickshank chat with MRU alum and corporate wellness consultant Lindsay Calder Recknell about mental health at work and in everyday life.

Lindsay shares her journey from accounting student to wellness expert, along with practical tips on managing stress, preventing burnout, and building more compassionate workplaces. They also dive into leadership, generational differences, and how to create environments where people actually feel safe to speak up.

In honour of International Women's Day, Always Blue presents "Strength in Community" the opening plenary from MRU's International Women's Day celebration.

Recorded live on March 10, 2026, three members of the Mount Royal University community, Paula Worthington (Worthington PR & Story, MRU Sessional Faculty), Jasmine Palardy (The Good Future, MRU Alumna), and Sarah Nwaerondu (Calgary Wild FC, MRU Alumna), explore what it means to build meaningful community. From grassroots sports and neighborhood initiatives to global networks and creative collaborations, they share stories about trust, belonging, and the power of connection.

Always Blue with President Rahilly returns next month with a brand-new episode!

In this episode of Always Blue, Mount Royal University professor and Paralympic expert David Legg, shares how sport can be a powerful driver of inclusion, accessibility, and belonging. Drawing on his experience in the Olympic and Paralympic movements, Legg reflects on teaching, advocacy, and why inclusive sport matters on campus, in communities, and on the world stage.

Host: President Tim Rahilly

Co-Host: Scott Cruickshank

Guest: David Legg, PhD, Professor, Mount Royal University

Produced by: Mount Royal University Alumni Relations

In the inaugural episode of Always Blue, Mount Royal University President Tim Rahilly and co-host Scott Cruickshank sit down with Tala Abu Hayyaneh, MRU alumna and President of the Student Association of Mount Royal University.

Tala reflects on her journey as a newcomer to Canada, her path through Policy Studies, and how student leadership and volunteerism shaped her growth as an advocate and leader. She shares candid insights on the realities of leadership, mental resilience, and balancing critique with collaboration, while discussing her passion for education policy, refugee education, and making systemic change from within.

Host: President Tim Rahilly

Co-Host: Scott Cruickshank

Guest: Tala Abu Hayyaneh, President, Student's Association of Mount Royal University (SAMRU)

Produced by: Mount Royal University Alumni Relations

www.mtroyal.ca/alumni/

In this episode of Always Blue, President Tim Rahilly and co-host Scott Cruickshank sit down with award-winning Mount Royal University alumna Ashley King—actor, playwright, podcaster, and accessibility advocate.

Ashley shares her powerful journey after losing her eyesight to methanol poisoning at 19, and how resilience, storytelling, and her MRU journalism education helped shape her path back to the arts. She discusses her acclaimed play and podcast Static: A Party Girl's Memoir, the importance of accessibility and representation in the arts, and why creating your own opportunities can lead to unexpected impact and global reach.

Host: President Tim Rahilly

Co-Host: Scott Cruickshank

Guest: Ashley King, Actor, Playwright, Podcaster & Accessibility Advocate

Produced by: Mount Royal University Alumni Relations

www.mtroyal.ca/alumni/