Bravery Blueprint

In this episode of The Bravery Blueprint, host Gus Baxter sits down with Drew University alum Zack Mower to explore the unexpected twists and thoughtful choices that shaped his journey from business student to college admissions professional.

In this episode of the Bravery Blueprint, Zack Mowers shares how getting involved on campus—from cross-country to student government—taught him how to build community, develop resilience, and say yes to what lights him up. But just as importantly, he opens up about the power of saying no—to the things that no longer serve you, to old plans, and to expectations that don’t quite fit.

Through stories of career pivots, coaching, failure, and family, Zack reminds us that bravery isn’t always bold. Sometimes, it’s just taking the next step—even when you’re not sure where it’ll lead.

Whether you're navigating college life, considering a career change, or just figuring out what matters most, this conversation is full of honest insight and quiet encouragement.

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CREDITS

To learn more about Drew University and the Center for Career Development visit: https://drew.edu/academic/student-resources/center-for-career-development/

Discover more DUPA and WMNJ Radio podcasts at https://duparchive.org/podcast-list/

What does it take to build a successful career from the ground up? In this episode of The Bravery Blueprint, host Gus Baxter sits down with John Cevallos, a Drew University alum who turned uncertainty into opportunity. With no job lined up and no safety net, John took a bold leap into international sales, navigating setbacks, layoffs, and tough decisions along the way. Now, with 25 years in the consumer goods industry, he shares the lessons that shaped his journey—how feedback fuels growth, why resilience is the key to success, and how trusting yourself can lead to unexpected breakthroughs. Whether you're a student, a young professional, or someone at a career crossroads, this episode is packed with wisdom and inspiration to help you take your next brave step forward.

CREDITS

The Bravery Blueprint is hosted & written by Gus Baxter with theme music and audio engineering by Logan Flores

To learn more about Drew University and the Center for Career Development visit: https://drew.edu/academic/student-resources/center-for-career-development/

Discover more DUPA and WMNJ Radio podcasts at https://duparchive.org/podcast-list/

In this episode of The Bravery Blueprint, host Gus Baxter sits down with Dr. Matthew Pfenninger, a radiologist at University Radiology Group in Flemington, New Jersey. A Drew University alumnus, Dr. Pfenninger reflects on his journey from studying biology and chemistry to pursuing medicine, and ultimately specializing in radiology. He shares insights on finding work-life balance in a demanding field, the impact of strong personal and academic relationships, and how stepping out of his comfort zone at Drew shaped his career. From early doubts in medical school to embracing the human side of healthcare, Dr. Pfenninger's story is a testament to the power of adaptability, confidence, and meaningful connections.

CREDITS

To learn more about Drew University and the Center for Career Development visit: https://drew.edu/academic/student-resources/center-for-career-development/

Subscribe to this podcast and leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts! Discover more DUPA and WMNJ Radio podcasts at https://duparchive.org/podcast-list/

In this episode of The Bravery Blueprint, host Gus Baxter sits down with Drew University graduate Sarah Morris to explore the transformative power of embracing failure, following intellectual curiosity, and leveraging the strengths of a liberal arts education. Sarah shares her journey from majoring in Spanish with minors in Biology and Public Health to becoming the Head of Client Delivery for the Americas and EMEA at Athenium Partners, a global expert network.

CREDITS

The Bravery Blueprint is hosted & written by Gust Baxter with theme music and audio engineering by Logan Flores

To learn more about Drew University's Center for Career Development visit: https://drew.edu/academic/student-resources/center-for-career-development/

Subscribe to this podcast and leave a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get podcasts! Discover more WMNJ and DUPA content at wmnjradio.com and duparchive.org!

In this special episode of The Bravery Blueprint, host Gus Baxter is joined by twins Alex and Chrissy Pollock, Drew University alumni who share their insights on success and personal growth. Alex, a deputy editor with a background in psychology and Italian, and Chrissy, a medical malpractice claims consultant with a double major in psychology and Italian, discuss how their liberal arts education shaped their careers and personal lives. Reflecting on their college experiences, Alex and Chrissy offer advice on embracing risks and being open to new opportunities. They emphasize the importance of following one's passions, being adaptable, and trusting the process, even when the path seems unclear. They also address common college anxieties, such as the pressure to make the "right" choices and the value of networking, stressing that personal growth often involves navigating discomfort and adjusting plans as needed. Through their stories, they highlight how the skills and relationships built during their time at Drew University, including strong faculty connections and the ability to pivot, have been crucial in their professional journeys. They encourage listeners to remain open to learning and evolving and to trust their own instincts in pursuing their goals.

CREDITS

The Bravery Blueprint is hosted & written by Gust Baxter with theme music and audio engineering by Logan Flores

To learn more about Drew University and The Center for Career Development visit: https://drew.edu/academic/student-resources/center-for-career-development/

Subscribe to this podcast and leave a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get podcasts! Discover more WMNJ and DUPA content at wmnjradio.com and duparchive.org!

In the latest episode of The Bravery Blueprint, Alexa Marino shares her remarkable career transition from anthropology to sound design at Bungie. From working in museums and handling antiquities trafficking to exploring the world of video game soundscapes and releasing her own debut album, Alexa's journey demonstrates the power of following your passions and embracing new opportunities. Tune in to discover how her liberal arts background and willingness to pivot led her to shape the immersive experiences in games like Destiny 2.

CREDITS

The Bravery Blueprint is hosted & written by Gust Baxter with theme music and audio engineering by Logan Flores

Connect with Alexa Marino on LinkedIn and checkout her music at https://alexamarinomusic.com/

To learn more about Drew University's Center for Career Development visit: https://drew.edu/academic/student-resources/center-for-career-development/

Discover more incredible podcasts and content produced by Drew University students, faculty, and staff at duparchive.org!

In this episode of The Bravery Blueprint, host Gus Baxter interviews Will Fritch, a graduate of Drew University's 4+1 program, who shares his insights on balancing optimism and the reality of failure. Will discusses how his experience as a baseball player, particularly after tearing his ACL, taught him the importance of resilience, embracing failure, and consistently putting in the work without immediate results. He emphasizes the value of networking, surrounding oneself with positive influences, and maintaining a growth mindset. Will's approach to challenges, driven by his competitive nature and passion for self-improvement, serves as a blueprint for navigating both personal and professional life.

CREDITS

The Bravery Blueprint is hosted & written by Gus Baxter with theme music and audio engineering by Logan Flores

Welcome to "The Bravery Blueprint," where we delve into the invaluable tools and skills cultivated through a liberal arts curriculum and how they serve as a blueprint for successfully navigating the complexities of today's professional landscape.

Credits

Subscribe to this podcast and leave a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get podcasts! Discover more WMNJ and DUPA content at wmnjradio.com and duparchive.org!