On The Move

Welcome back to On the Move, the podcast from the Department of Kinesiology and Sport Management at Texas A&M University. In this episode, host Chelsea Reber is joined by Dr. Alyssa Locklear, Associate Department Head for Undergraduate Programs, along with kinesiology students Ashlyn Norton and Curtis Gatewood for a dynamic conversation on mentorship, opportunity, and the many paths to success in the field of kinesiology.

Alyssa shares how the department is supporting students both in and out of the classroom while encouraging them to explore the breadth of career possibilities beyond the traditional tracks. Ashlyn reflects on the importance of putting yourself out there and connecting with mentors, while Curtis emphasizes how something as simple as a conversation can unlock major opportunities for growth. From strength and conditioning to leadership, mentorship, and professional development, this episode offers an inside look into what makes Texas A&M’s kinesiology program such a powerful launching pad for future leaders in health, sport, and beyond.

Tune in to hear how Aggie students are building meaningful relationships, gaining real-world experience, and shaping their futures through the power of connection and community.

To learn more about the Department of Kinesiology and Sport Management at TAMU, visit https://knsm.tamu.edu/ 

Host: Chelsea Reber

Guests: Alyssa Locklear, Associate Department Head for Undergraduate Programs, Texas A&M University

Ashlyn Norton, Kinesiology Student, Texas A&M University

Curtis Gatewood, Kinesiology Student, Texas A&M University

Timestamps:

(00:00 - 01:49) Introduction

(01:50 - 02:48) Balancing Teaching and Admin

(02:49 - 04:30) Meeting Ashlyn and Curtis

(04:31 - 06:17) Being a Mentor for Incoming Students

(06:18 - 08:24) An Average Day for Curtis

(08:25 - 09:52) Getting into Strength and Conditioning

(09:53 - 12:02) Growing Outside of the Classroom

(12:03 - 13:54) Different Paths of Student Success

(13:55 - 18:11) Overlooked Parts of Kinesiology

(18:12 - 20:46) Favorite Parts of the Program

(20:47 - 22:59) Upcoming Events

(23:00 - 26:51) Advice for New and Current Students

(26:52 - 27:28) Closing

Welcome back to On the Move, the podcast from the Department of Kinesiology and Sport Management at Texas A&M University. In this episode, host Chelsea Reber is joined by Dr. Craig Fulk, Visiting Assistant Professor at Texas A&M, to explore the intersection of innovation, inclusion, and the evolving world of sport.

Dr. Fulk shares his passion for para athletics, his own journey with cycling, and the growing influence of virtualization in sport—from virtual cycling to tech-driven training methods. The conversation highlights how emerging technologies are transforming participation and expanding access, particularly for underrepresented communities. Dr. Fulk also emphasizes the importance of empowering students to lead the next wave of change, especially in advancing accessibility and para sport initiatives.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation about the future of inclusive sport, the role of education in driving innovation, and how today's students are shaping tomorrow's solutions.

To learn more about the Department of Kinesiology and Sport Management at TAMU, visit https://knsm.tamu.edu/ 

Host: Chelsea Reber

Guest: Dr. Craig Fulk, Visiting Assistant Professor, Texas A&M University

Timestamps:

(00:00 - 01:03) Introduction

(01:04 - 02:41) The Calling to Para Athletics

(02:42 - 04:21) Dr. Fulk’s Journey with Cycling

(04:22 - 05:18) Sport Business Planning Course Preview

(05:19 - 05:56) Keeping Class Current and Applicable

(05:57 - 09:32) Emerging Adult Research

(09:33 - 10:39) Misconceptions About Para Athletes 

(10:40 - 12:18) Inclusion and Accessibility

(12:19 - 14:23) Evolution in Inclusion

(14:24 - 16:12) The Virtualization of Sports 

(16:13 - 17:56) Supporting More Inclusive Practices

(17:57 - 19:20) Expanding Access to Sport

(19:21 - 22:19) Message to Students

(22:20 - 22:41) Closing

Welcome back to On the Move, the podcast from Texas A&M University’s Department of Kinesiology and Sport Management! In this episode, host Chelsea Reber is joined by Clinical Associate Professor of Athletic Training, Dr. Tony Boucher, to discuss athletic training and the common misconceptions surrounding the profession.

Dr. Boucher dives into defining what an athletic trainer is, the misconceptions that often surround the role, and the research aspect of the profession. He speaks passionately about the academic side of athletic training, as well as his dedication to his students and the knowledge he is able to share with them. Dr. Boucher offers insightful commentary on the broad field of athletic training, including emerging trends and new technologies.

To learn more about the Department of Kinesiology and Sport Management at TAMU, visit https://knsm.tamu.edu/ 

Host: Chelsea Reber

Guest: Dr. Tony Boucher (Clinical Associate Professor of Athletic Training)

Timestamps:

[00:00 - 01:00]: Intro 

[01:00 - 03:05]: Misconceptions in Athletic Training 

[03:06 - 04:27]: Defining what an Athletic trainer is 

[04:28 - 07:10]: Bridging the gap between education and real world experience 

[07:11 - 10:00]: Other challenges Athletic Trainers face 

[10:01 - 13:09]: Discussing Dr. Boucher’s research 

[13:10 - 15:45]: Trends in the athletic world 

[15:46 - 18:03]: Making complex clinical concepts accessible 

[18:04 - 19:09]: Student pathways 

[19:10 - 22:49]: What are different career paths for Athletic Trainers

[22:50 - 23:50]: Evolving student skills 

[23:51 - 25:06]: Advice for future TAMU students 

[25:07 - 25:25]: Outro

Welcome back to On the Move, the podcast from Texas A&M University’s Department of Kinesiology and Sport Management! In this episode, host Chelsea Reber is joined by Instructional Associate Professor, Mary Beth Henthorne to discuss her experience building the Pickleball program at Texas A&M from the ground up, all while battling breast cancer. 

In this episode, Mary Beth dives into not only her own experience making the switch from tennis to pickleball, but how the students' passion for the sport has grown dramatically over the last decade. She speaks passionately about her adoration for her students, and how she believes that engaging with Pickleball can have an incredible impact on their lives. As Mary Beth approaches her retirement, she speaks on some of the best memories with the sport, and her hope for the future of Pickleball across all of higher education. 

To learn more about the Department of Kinesiology and Sport Management at TAMU, visit https://knsm.tamu.edu/ 

Host: Chelsea Reber

Guest: Mary Beth Henthorne, Instructional Associate Professor, Texas A&M

Timestamps:

(00:00 - 01:18) Intro

(01:19 - 02:55) The Growth of Pickleball at Texas A&M

(02:56 - 04:15) Behind the Scenes of Growing the Pickleball Program

(04:16 - 04:42) Opportunities to Get Involved

(04:43 - 07:18) Mary Beth’s Experience as a Professional Player

(07:19 - 08:00) Balancing Teaching and Pro Sports

(08:01 - 09:56) Incorporating Professional Play in the Classroom

(09:57 - 11:44) Mary Beth's Battle with Breast Cancer

(11:45 - 12:40) Mary Beth’s Students Support with Her Battle

(12:41 - 15:07) Recent Developments in the Sport

(15:08 - 17:02) Getting Youth Involved

(17:02 - 17:43) The Community Aspect of Pickleball

(17:44 - 20:11) Most Memorable Moments

(20:12 - 21:16) Upcoming Retirement

(21:27 - 23:54) Hope for the Future

(23:55 - 25:25) Life and Pickleball After Retirement

(25:26 - 25:54) Closing

Welcome back to On the Move, the podcast from the Department of Kinesiology and Sport Management at Texas A&M University. In this episode, host Chelsea Reber is joined by Dr. Steve Riechman and Dr. Jim Fluckey to discuss one of the most innovative developments in human performance research at Texas A&M: the new Tactical Human Performance and Thermoregulation Lab.

Dr. Riechman shares the vision behind the Southern Heat Initiative, a groundbreaking study that uses artificial intelligence and large population data to better understand individual heat tolerance and predict heat response in real-time. Dr. Fluckey explains how the lab’s state-of-the-art environmental chamber offers hands-on learning for students and research opportunities that extend far beyond exercise science—impacting fields like wearable tech, agriculture, and public safety. From supporting military and first responders to training future researchers, this lab is set to become a vital hub for applied performance science.

Tune in to learn how this cutting-edge facility is opening doors for interdisciplinary innovation and preparing the next generation of leaders in kinesiology and beyond.

To learn more about the Department of Kinesiology and Sport Management at TAMU, visit https://knsm.tamu.edu/ 

Host: Chelsea Reber

Guests: Dr. Steve Riechman, Associate Professor, Texas A&M University

Dr. Jim Fluckey, Associate Dean for Research, Texas A&M University

Timestamps:

(00:00 - 02:34) Introduction

(02:35 - 05:08) Motives for Coming to A&M

(05:09 - 08:10) New Tactical Human Performance and Thermoregulation Lab

(08:11 - 09:28) Factors for Heat Tolerance

(09:29 - 10:32) Creating the Ideal Lab

(10:33 - 12:21) Benefits for Undergraduates and Graduates

(12:22 - 13:08) Benefits for Military, Fire, Police, and First Responders

(13:09 - 17:59) Support from the College and Wide Range of Chamber Usage

(18:00 - 18:32) Grand Opening

(18:33 - 20:20) Chamber Specs

(20:21 - 20:52) Final Thoughts

(20:53 - 21:20) Closing

Welcome back to On the Move, the podcast from Texas A&M University’s Department of Kinesiology and Sport Management! In this episode, host Chelsea Reber is joined by Professor of the Practice Becky Geyer to discuss leadership, mentorship, and the evolving world of sports education. With decades of experience in coaching and sports management, Becky shares valuable insights on what it takes to succeed in the field and how students can prepare for careers in the fast-paced sports industry.

Becky dives into the importance of hands-on experience, the business side of athletics, and how innovations in sports education are shaping future professionals. She also emphasizes the value of core leadership skills, building trust, and taking advantage of unexpected opportunities. Whether you’re a student, an aspiring sports professional, or a seasoned industry leader, this episode is packed with wisdom to help you navigate and thrive in the world of sports management.

To learn more about the Department of Kinesiology and Sport Management at TAMU, visit https://knsm.tamu.edu/ 

Host: Chelsea Reber

Guest: Becky Geyer, Professor of the Practice

Timestamps:

(00:00 - 01:30) Introduction

(01:31 - 01:58) Having Hands On Experience

(01:59 - 04:03) Sports Leadership in Various Environments

(04:04 - 07:03) Building a Capstone Program

(07:04 - 09:25) Mentorship for Students

(09:26 - 11:34) The Business Side of Sports

(11:35 - 15:36) Innovations in Sport Education

(15:37 - 17:02) Becky’s Coaching Background

(17:03 - 17:57) Challenges in Building a Champion Team

(17:58 - 18:53) Crucial Skills for Students

(18:54 - 20:22) Unexpected Opportunities for Students

(20:23 - 21:07) Advice for Students Starting in Sport Management

(21:08 - 21:35) Closing

Welcome back to On the Move, the podcast from the Department of Kinesiology and Sport Management at Texas A&M University! In this episode, host Chelsea Reber sits down with Melody Alanis, Visiting Assistant Professor, to discuss her research on nontraditional sports and their impact on the Latin community, particularly women.

Melody also shares her journey from being a first-generation college student to becoming a professor, offering insights and inspiration along the way. She encourages students to see “no” as a “next opportunity” and to push past barriers to achieve their goals. Don’t miss this powerful and motivating episode!

To learn more about the Department of Kinesiology and Sport Management at TAMU, visit https://knsm.tamu.edu/ 

Host: Chelsea Reber

Guest: Melody Alanis, Visiting Assistant Professor

Timestamps:

(00:00 - 01:21) Introduction

(01:22 - 02:45) Becoming a Professor

(02:46 - 04:34) Nontraditional Sports

(04:35 - 06:54) Barriers for Women

(06:55 - 09:45) Getting Students Involved

(09:46 - 10:40) Rewarding Experience

(10:41 - 11:49) Teaching Innovation

(11:50 - 14:20) Redefining No

(14:21 - 14:50) Closing

Welcome back to On the Move, the podcast from the Department of Kinesiology and Sport Management at Texas A&M University! In this episode, host Chelsea Reber sits down with Dr. Jiling Liu, Clinical Associate Professor, to explore the power of self-regulated learning.

Dr. Liu’s research focuses on self-regulated learning, and he applies this knowledge to empower his students in the classroom. By guiding them in setting SMART goals and improving their time management skills, he’s equipping them with tools for success—both academically and beyond. Tune in to hear Dr. Liu’s insights on goal setting and how developing these skills can have a lasting impact.

To learn more about the Department of Kinesiology and Sport Management at TAMU, visit https://knsm.tamu.edu/ 

Host: Chelsea Reber

Guest: Dr. Jiling Liu, Clinical Associate Professor

Timestamps:

(00:00 - 00:55) Introduction

(00:56 - 02:23) Rewarding Moments

(02:24 - 04:29) Self-Regulated Learning

(04:31 - 06:30) Digging into the Research

(06:31 - 08:59) Why Do I Need a Plan?

(09:00 - 11:25) Increase in Technology

(11:26 - 13:53) Goal Setting & Time Management

(13:54 - 16:18) Goals for the Future

(16:19 - 16:49) Closing

Welcome back to On the Move, the podcast from Texas A&M University’s Department of Kinesiology and Sport Management! In this episode, host Chelsea Reber sits down with Mike Hanik, Instructional Associate Professor, to talk about one of the fastest-growing sports in the country—pickleball!

Mike shares his insights on the sport’s rapid rise, both on campus and nationwide, and how A&M is embracing the trend with new courts, expanded programs, and growing support for players of all levels. Whether you're a casual player, an intramural competitor, or eyeing tournament play, you won’t want to miss this exciting conversation about the impact of pickleball on students and the community.

To learn more about the Department of Kinesiology and Sport Management at TAMU, visit https://knsm.tamu.edu/ 

Host: Chelsea Reber

Guest: Mike Hanik, Instructional Associate Professor

Timestamps:

(00:00 - 00:59) Introduction

(01:00 - 03:37) Discovering Pickleball

(03:36 - 05:38) Growing Popularity at A&M

(05:39 - 07:35) The Pickleball Club

(07:36 - 10:27) Playing in Tournaments 

(10:28 - 12:28) A Sport for All

(12:29 - 15:07) Competitive Pickleball Teams

(15:08 - 16:55) The Future of the Game

(16:56 - 17:23) Closing

Description:

Welcome back to another episode of On the Move, the podcast from the Department of Kinesiology and Sport Management at Texas A&M University. In this episode, host Chelsea Reber sits down with Madison Treece, Sports Science PhD Fellow at Texas A&M University, to discuss the evolving world of sports performance and biomechanics. Madison shares insights into how cutting-edge research is shaping training methodologies, optimizing athlete performance, and improving recovery strategies.

She provides an inside look into her role at Texas A&M, detailing how data collection, lab research, and real-world application come together to benefit Aggie athletes. From using grip strength assessments to track neuromuscular fatigue to implementing Oura Rings for sleep monitoring, Madison explains how technology is helping teams make smarter, science-backed decisions. She also discusses the challenges and rewards of pursuing a PhD in sports science and offers advice for those interested in breaking into the field.

Tune in for a fascinating conversation on the intersection of science, data, and athletics, and learn how Madison and her team are pushing the boundaries of sports performance!

To learn more about the Department of Kinesiology and Sport Management at TAMU, visit https://knsm.tamu.edu/ 

Host: Chelsea Reber

Guest: Madison Treece, Sports Science PhD Fellow, Texas A&M University

Timestamps:

(00:00 - 01:20) Introduction

(01:21 - 02:12) New Path in Sports Science

(02:13 - 04:53) Competitive Resources for Aggie Athletes

(04:54 - 06:08) Replicating Lab Results in Action

(06:09 - 07:50) A Day in the Life of Madison

(07:51 - 10:58) Passion for Sports

(10:59 - 12:23) Lesser Known Biomechanics Roles

(12:24 - 14:29) Exciting Developments in the Field

(14:30 - 16:05) Working with the TAMU Softball Team

(16:06 - 16:52) Tracking and Improving Women’s Basketball Stats

(16:53 - 18:09) Advice for Getting Involved in Sports Science

(18:10 - 18:34) Closing