After a year of seeing him on the sidelines cheering on our Rams, it's finally time to sit down with Denver Broncos legend Terrell Davis in our next episode of The Next 150. From sleeping in his equipment before his first-ever football practice as a kid to becoming a Super Bowl MVP and Pro Football Hall of Famer, this episode dives deep into TD’s story of resilience and grit. He tells defining stories from his childhood, opens up about overcoming adversity, rediscovering joy in the game, and why he believes greatness can come from anywhere. TD also shares advice for today’s student-athletes and reflects on what it has meant to be welcomed by the CSU community as our inaugural Rambassador. 

From battling childhood asthma to summiting the highest peaks in the world, Luis Benitez has never followed a traditional path—and he doesn’t think you should either. 

While on campus for CSU's Outfitting Tomorrow Summit, Luis Benitez joined President Amy Parsons on this episode of The Next 150 podcast. Luis is a globally renowned adventurer, the first director of the Office of the Outdoor Recreation Industry here in Colorado, and the current vice president of global government affairs for Lululemon. They discuss his winding journey from a kid on the swim team to leading expeditions on every continent, advocating for public lands, and shaping national policy around outdoor recreation. Luis opens up about his career, purpose-driven branding, and the bipartisan power of getting outside. 

Plus, hear his advice for students here at CSU who are finding their voice and forging their own unconventional paths. 

Tuberculosis is one of the oldest and deadliest diseases, but it’s not just history. On this episode of The Next 150, President Amy Parsons sits down with CSU’s own Dr. Karen Dobos and Dr. Marcela Henao-Tamayo, co-directors of the Mycobacteria Research Laboratories, to talk about the future of infectious disease research and the role CSU is playing in shaping disease prevention. Hear how their paths—from wildlife biology and medical school in Colombia—led them to Fort Collins and the ways in which students can get involved to help make an impact on public health. From a recent TB outbreak in Kansas City to World TB Day outreach with local high schools, this episode dives into CSU’s reputation as a global powerhouse in TB research.  

Plus, learn how AI could unlock the next big breakthroughs in preventing infectious disease and why President Parsons was gifted a signed book by best-selling author John Green.

The Associated Students of Colorado State University (ASCSU) President Nick DeSalvo and Vice President Braxton Dietz sit down with President Parsons to talk about their journeys to CSU and their experiences in student government. From tackling major policy issues like U+2 to balancing student life with big responsibilities, Nick and Braxton share what it’s really like to advocate for their fellow Rams. Plus, hear their plans for the future, surprising celebrity encounters, and their advice for the next generation of leaders and CSU students. 

It's time to pick up your shot put or discus and meet the elite women throwers and coach currently shaping CSU's Track and Field throwing legacy. This episode of The Next 150 podcast features a powerhouse lineup: National Collegiate Athletic Association indoor champion Mya Lesnar, NCAA outdoor runner-up Gabi Morris and First Team All-American Michaela Hawkins '24, alongside their coach, Brian Bedard '88. They share their experiences competing at the highest levels as a squad from national championships to the 2024 Olympic trials. They also discuss the power of mental preparation, the impact of a strong team culture and how lessons from the field translate into academic and professional success. And Coach Bedard offers insight into what it's been like to build a program that consistently wins championships. Hear their advice for young athletes and incoming CSU students on embracing challenges and staying committed to their goals. 

Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser joins The Next 150 to share his journey in law and public service—and how he’s working to build a better future for Colorado. From protecting the state’s water resources to addressing youth mental health, he highlights the power of bipartisanship, collaboration, and mutual respect in solving today’s biggest challenges. Plus, he offers valuable advice for CSU students, emphasizing lifelong learning, empathy, and entrepreneurial thinking in a rapidly changing world. 

Content advisory: This conversation includes mentions of suicide and drug use.

Kicking off the new year with a high-energy episode that hits all the right notes! 🎵 From promoting icons like The Eagles and ZZ Top to managing stars like Lyle Lovett and Big Head Todd & The Monsters, to launching CSU's Music Business Program, the legendary Chuck Morris has done it all.

Recently awarded the International Entertainment Buyers Association’s Music and Entertainment Industry Educator of the Year, Chuck reflects on his five-decade career and his deep commitment to mentoring students and inspiring the next generation of music industry leaders. Taking us down memory lane, he regales us with CSU’s rich live music history—from unforgettable (and rainy!) nights at Hughes Stadium to packed shows at Moby Arena with artists like Bob Dylan and The Rolling Stones.

As founder and director of the College of Business' innovative Music Business Program, Chuck also shares why CSU is the perfect home for the program and his vision for its future.

Now, let’s rock and roll and see where Chuck’s passion takes us! 🎸

As we adventure into a new podcast studio, we're joined by Colorado State University's very own CSU Provost and Executive Vice President Dr. Marion Underwood! Dr. Underwood shares her inspiring journey from clinical psychologist to academic leader, highlighting pivotal moments that shaped her career. She offers a comprehensive vision for CSU’s future, diving into discussions on the university’s top institutional priorities: student success, rural initiatives, competitiveness, research excellence and democracy. Drawing on her personal experiences as a mother, she reflects on how these experiences have influenced her leadership style and the guidance she provides to others. Dr. Underwood also shares valuable insights into fostering civic engagement and mentoring within the student community, offering a fresh perspective on the evolving role of women in leadership. 

Are you a Colorado State University Basketball fan? If you are, this episode is for you! 🏀🐏

As the 2024-2025 CSU Basketball seasons get underway, let's reminisce with two CSU basketball icons, McKenna Hofschild and Joe Palmer. McKenna earned her graduate degree in Business from CSU and is one of our most decorated players. She holds the Mountain West's all-time assist record, ranks second in program scoring, earned four All-Mountain West team selections, and maintained the nation's second-highest assist average. McKenna reflects on making CSU history, inspiring the next generation of athletes, and the explosive growth of women's sports during her collegiate career. 

She's joined by Joe Palmer, who holds undergraduate degrees in history and social behavioral science and a graduate degree in sports management from CSU. Joe shares his big move from Division III to the thrill of March Madness and what it was like to become a fan favorite for his clutch performances (including three memorable 3-pointers against Colorado) and his trademark headband.

Together, they share personal growth stories and life lessons, and discuss how sports bring people together.

In this special episode of The Next 150, get ready for a Halloween twist! 🎃 🎼

Immerse yourself in the world of organ music with Joel Bacon, a two-chair endowed CSU music professor. Turn up your volume to experience Professor Bacon performing some of his favorite compositions and learn how his passion for the organ sparked the creation of CSU’s Halloween Organ Extravaganza. He also reflects on his history with the world's largest pipe organs and shares advice for CSU students looking to expand their horizons.