Welcome to Unstoppable Stories, the UMGC podcast hosted by Nathan James. In today’s episode, we’re joined by a special mother-and-son duo, Carolyn and Immanuel Patton, both proud UMGC graduates. What started as a little boy’s promise to his mom—to graduate college together—turned into a powerful journey filled with hard work, determination, and love. With graduation being the beginning of their journey, Immanuel also shares what it’s like to be a Success Coach at UMGC and how his mom’s example helped him become the role model he is today for students finding their way. 

This is a story about family, perseverance, and keeping a promise that you won’t want to miss! Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and comment!

To learn more about UMGC and the Patton’s story follow this link UMGC.edu/Unstoppable

Host: Nathan James, Host

Guests: Carolyn Patton, UMGC Alumna 

Immanuel Patton, UMGC Alumnus and Success Coach

Time Stamps & Show Notes: 

(00:00 - 00:39) Introduction to education's importance 

(00:40 - 01:09) Podcast welcome with Emmanuel and Carolyn Patton 

(01:10 - 03:47) The childhood promise to graduate together 

(03:48 - 05:09) Carolyn's perspective as a single mom 

(05:10 - 08:47) Emmanuel at age 5 and Carolyn's education journey 

(08:48 - 10:58) Carolyn's struggle and almost giving up 

(10:59 - 13:45) Emmanuel's support and encouragement 

(13:46 - 18:27) PACE program and different learning styles 

(18:28 - 21:23) Daily dynamics and balancing school with fun 

(21:24 - 24:29) Emmanuel's role as UMGC Success Coach 

(24:30 - 27:10) Final message: Show up and don't give up 

(27:11 - 28:10) Closing remarks and thank you

In this episode of Unstoppable Stories, host Nathan James is joined by Cory Underwood, a UMGC alumnus and high school assistant principal, to share his powerful story about higher education and leadership.

Cory opens up about the educational struggles he faced throughout his life and what it was like pursuing higher education later on. He highlights the importance of building meaningful relationships with students and demonstrates how to make a lasting impact in your community.

His story is a true testament to the power of leading by example.

Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments!

To learn more about UMGC, visit: UMGC.edu/Unstoppable

 UMGC.edu/Unstoppable    

Host: Nathan James

Guest(s): Cory Underwood

Time Stamps & Show Notes: 

[00:00 - 1:20]: Intro 

[1:21 - 3:20] What do you love about your job?

[3:21 - 7:30 ]: High school struggles 

[7:31 - 9:00]: The importance of role models 

[9:00 - 15:22]: Cory Underwoods educational journey 

[15:23 - 18:30]: The challenges of going back to school

[18:31 - 20:38]: Fears of returning to education 

[20:39 - 24:10]: “What made you join UMGC?”

[24:11 - 28:20]: Life stories and lessons

[28:21 - 31:00]: Overcoming a fear of failure 

[31:01 - 34:20]: Finding your “why”

[34:21 - 37:15]: “What would your younger self say?”

[37:16 - 38:20]: Outro 

In this episode of Unstoppable Stories, host Lauren Cardillo is joined by Andre Taylor, a network engineer, an Army veteran and a UMCG grad and first generation college graduate. to share his story on seeking higher education while actively serving in the military.

Andre opens up about dealing with various health issues, and how he has not let any diagnosis

define his life. He discusses how important it is to focus on the accomplishments in your life and

to not dwell on the dark moments in life.

His story is a testament to the power of dedication—proving that no matter where you are in life,

you have the strength to build a bright and fulfilling future.

Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments!

To learn more about UMGC, visit: UMGC.edu/Unstoppable 

Host: Lauren Cardillo

Guest: Andre Taylor, Army Veteran and UMCG Alumnus

Time Stamps & Show Notes:

[00:00 - 00:55]: Introduction

[00:56 - 3:35]: 2023 Grad walk story

[3:36 - 5:54]: “How important has education been in your life”

[5:55 - 10:00]: Journey of being in the military

[10:01 - 11:00]: Working throughout highschool

[11:01 - 14:24]: Joining the army

[14:25 - 18:05]: “How did you find UMCG”

[18:06 - 20:57]: Doing classes while deployed

[20:58 - 22:33]: Changing locations while taking classes

[22:34 -26:16]: Dealing with health issues while pursuing school

[26:17 - 28:33]: Andre Taylors one lesson

[28:34 - 30:00]: Majors and certificates

[30:01 - 32:50]: How programs aided in the business world

[32:51 - 35:25]: The American Dream

[35:26 - 36:01]: Outro

In this episode of Unstoppable Stories, host Nathan James is joined by Amanda Clark, a mental health advocate and UMGC alumna, to share her powerful journey of resilience and transformation.

Amanda opens up about overcoming immense pain and hardship, finding the inner strength to change her life for herself and her children. She discusses how therapy and a focus on mental health became key to her growth during life’s toughest moments and how her determination to be a role model for her kids fueled her pursuit of a bachelor's degree.

Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance—proving that no matter your past, you have the strength to build a bright and fulfilling future.

Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments!

To learn more about UMGC, visit: UMGC.edu/Unstoppable    

Host: Nathan James

Guest: Amanda Clark, Mental Health Advocate and UMGC Alumna

Time Stamps & Show Notes: 

(00:00 - 01:02) Introduction

(01:03 - 05:50) Amanda’s Upbringing

(05:51 - 08:11) Wake Up Call

(08:12 - 11:25) Pursuit of Education

(11:26 - 13:29) Cross Country Learning

(13:30 - 18:32) Inspiring the Next Generation

(18:33 - 22:58) Mental Health Journey

(22:59 - 25:49) Find the Right Fit

(25:50 - 30:20) Taking on Leadership

(30:21 - 35:19) Find Your Fire

(35:20 - 36:03) Closing

In this episode of Unstoppable Stories, host Nathan James sits down with Mark Driscoll, a firefighter, EMS provider, and UMGC alumnus, to explore his remarkable journey of pursuing education while living and working in one of the most extreme environments on Earth—Antarctica. Mark shares how he stayed mentally engaged through Polar T3 Syndrome by turning to his UMGC classes, using education as a tool to combat isolation and challenge his mind.

Mark reflects on his unique educational experience, the support he received from UMGC instructors, and how perseverance helped him push through tough times. He also shares his philosophy on breaking unhealthy cycles and building a life of purpose and pride.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation about resilience, adaptability, and the power of education, no matter where life takes you. Be sure to like, comment, and subscribe!

To learn more about UMGC, visit: UMGC.edu/Unstoppable    

Host: Nathan James, Host

Guest: Mark Driscoll, Firefighter, EMS Provider, & UMGC Alumnus

Time Stamps & Show Notes: 

(00:00 - 01:24) Introduction

(01:25 - 05:35) Life in Antarctica

(05:36 - 12:43) Purpose for Going to Antarctica

(12:44 - 22:27) Doing College in Antarctica

(22:28 - 31:22) Sticking it Through Tough Times

(31:23 - 36:13) Advice to Younger Self

(36:14 - 37:06) Closing

Welcome to another episode of Unstoppable Stories, the official UMGC podcast! Today, our host Nathan James sits down with the inspiring Ginger Miller—president and CEO of Women Veterans Interactive Foundation, a Navy Veteran and a proud UMGC alumna. Ginger shares her incredible journey, from overcoming homelessness as a veteran to earning her master’s degree at UMGC and founding the impactful WVIF nonprofit. Her passion for empowering and supporting women veterans shines through in every word. You won’t want to miss this powerful conversation about resilience, service, and the incredible work happening at WVIF. Let’s dive in!

Don’t forget to like, share, subscribe, and comment.

To learn more about UMGC follow this link UMGC.edu/Unstoppable  

Host: Nathan James, Host

Guests: Ginger Miller, CEO of Women Veterans Interactive Foundation, Navy Veteran and UMGC Alumna,

Time Stamps & Show Notes: 

(00:00 - 01:22) Introduction

(01:23 - 02:53) Legendary Pink Beret

(02:54 - 05:48) Starting WVIF

(05:49 - 10:26) Supporting Women Veterans

(10:27 - 17:23) Ginger’s Medical Story

(17:24 - 22:33) Listen and Meeting Needs

(22:34 - 28:42) CahEducation Guiding Heart

(28:43 - 34:13) Sights Set on the Stars

(34:14 - 42:54) Don’t Give Up

(42:55 - 43:39) Closing

In this episode of Unstoppable Stories, host Nathan James welcomes Lloyd “Milo” Miles, Senior Vice President of Global Military Operations at UMGC and retired U.S. Army officer, for a powerful conversation on leadership, service, and purpose. Milo shares how his 32-year military career shaped his approach to leading others—and how his second chapter in higher education is rooted in that same sense of mission.

From his early days at West Point to leading troops in the field, Milo discusses the formative experiences that shaped his leadership philosophy and passion for servant leadership. He reflects on the values instilled through military service, the importance of humility, and how his commitment to supporting others continues to guide his work in education today.

Don’t miss this thoughtful episode about finding purpose, giving back, and making a lasting impact through leadership. Be sure to like, comment, and subscribe!

To learn more about UMGC, visit: UMGC.edu/Unstoppable    

Host: Nathan James, Host

Guest: Lloyd “Milo” Miles, Senior Vice President, Global Military Operations, UMGC

Time Stamps & Show Notes: 

(00:00 - 02:06) Introduction

(02:07 - 04:19) Why UMGC Post-Military

(04:20 - 12:13) Inspiration Behind Joining the Military

(12:14 - 13:57) Milo’s Time at West Point

(13:58 - 21:17) Early Lessons as a Young Lieutenant

(21:18 - 28:02) Forming a Long Remembered Friendship

(28:03 - 35:31) Military Accomplishments and Challenges

(35:32 - 36:35) Being Close with Family

(36:36 - 41:47) Making a Tough Choice

(41:48 - 43:55) The Most Important Life Lesson Milo has Learned

(43:56 - 45:42) What’s Next for Milo

(45:43 - 47:23) Final Thoughts

(47:24 - 48:49) Closing

In this episode of Unstoppable Stories, host Lauren Cardillo sits down with James Rodriguez, U.S. Marine Corps veteran and former Assistant Secretary at the Department of Labor, to discuss his remarkable journey through military service, education, and leadership. James shares how his pursuit of higher education became a key driver in his transition from the military to a corporate career, emphasizing the role of discipline, mentorship, and perseverance in achieving success.

James reflects on the impact of education as a tool for generational wealth, the confidence it instilled in him throughout his career, and the invaluable experiences that shaped his leadership. He also highlights the importance of supporting fellow veterans in their transition to civilian life and how UMGC played a pivotal role in his personal and professional growth.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation about determination, opportunity, and building a legacy through education. Be sure to like, comment, and subscribe!

To learn more about UMGC, visit: UMGC.edu/Unstoppable    

Host: Lauren Cardillo

Guest: James Rodriguez, Former Assistant Secretary, Department of Labor & UMGC Alumnus

Time Stamps & Show Notes: 

(00:00 - 00:39) Introduction 

(00:40 - 02:02) Getting to Know James 

(02:03 - 04:39) The Push to Education 

(04:40 - 07:57) Path to the Marine Corps and Military Experience 

(07:58 - 10:29) The Value of Mentorship 

(10:30 - 14:59) College While in the Military 

(15:00 - 16:49) Confidence in the Journey 

(16:50 - 19:19) Experience Working at the Department of Defense 

(19:20 - 22:53) Generational Wealth and Seeing Others Succeed 

(22:54 - 25:29) Transitioning Out of the Military 

(25:30 - 27:59) Proud Moments as Assistant Secretary 

(28:00 - 30:59) Bittersweet Transition 

(31:00 - 34:09) Continuing to Support Veterans 

(34:10 - 36:59) UMGC's Role in James' Success 

(37:00 - 39:10) Making Family Proud 

(39:11 - 39:28) Closing

In this episode of Unstoppable Stories, host Lauren Cardillo welcomes U.S. Army Veteran, Former Miss USA, & UMGC Alumna Deshauna Barber to discuss her extraordinary journey. From balancing military service with pageantry to overcoming obstacles through perseverance and tenacity, Deshauna shares the lessons that shaped her success.

Deshauna reflects on the power of resilience, the importance of continued education, and the role confidence plays in achieving personal and professional goals. She also opens up about her experience as a woman in the military, the impact of motivational speaking, and the pivotal moments that transformed her career.

Tune in for an empowering conversation about determination, leadership, and the mindset needed to push forward in the face of challenges. Be sure to like, comment, and subscribe!

To learn more about UMGC, visit: UMGC.edu/Unstoppable    

Host: Lauren Cardillo, Host

Guest: Deshauna Barber, Veteran, Former Miss USA, & UMGC Alumna

Time Stamps & Show Notes:

(00:00 - 00:39) Introduction 

(00:40 - 01:09) From Active Duty to Miss USA 

(01:10 - 03:09) Beauty Pageants and Military 

(03:10 - 05:09) Family's Support 

(05:10 - 08:09) Lessons Learned From Not Giving Up 

(08:10 - 10:09) Failing versus Regret 

(10:10 - 14:59) A Significant Turning Moment 

(15:00 - 17:19) Staying the Course 

(17:20 - 21:29) Military Background 

(21:30 - 26:49) Compassionate Leadership

(26:50 - 29:09) Women in the Military 

(29:10 - 32:09) Current Involvement in the Military 

(32:10 - 35:09) Overcoming Bullying 

(35:10 - 37:29) Finding Confidence 

(37:30 - 39:09) Continuing Education 

(39:10 - 42:09) Real Life Superheroes 

(42:10 - 44:09) Winning Miss USA 

(44:10 - 45:10) Closing

In this episode of Unstoppable Stories, host Nathan James sits down with Lieutenant Colonel Merissa Blackwell—Army Reserve, Logistics Officer for the U.S. Federal Government, and proud UMGC alumna. Merissa shares her journey from her early years, where education was the key to unlocking her dreams, to her path of service and lifelong learning. From earning her bachelor’s and MBA while serving in the Army Reserves to inspiring her husband to pursue his degree, Merissa’s commitment to education has had a ripple effect on her family. A true advocate for being a forever learner, she’s also passed this passion on to her daughter. Tune in for an inspiring, behind-the-scenes look at a military leader’s path to success and the values that shaped her along the way. 

Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments!

To learn more about UMGC, visit: UMGC.edu/Unstoppable   

Host: Nathan James

Guest: Lieutenant Colonel Merissa Blackwell, Army Reserve, Logistics Officer for the U.S. Federal Government, and UMGC Alumna

Time Stamps & Show Notes: 

(00:00 - 00:29) Introduction 

(00:30 - 01:11) Get to Know Merissa 

(01:12 - 06:23) Joining the Army 

(06:24 - 10:09) Forever Learner 

(10:10 - 16:59) A Contagious Journey

(17:00 - 20:59) Honing Leadership Skills

(21:00 - 25:49) In the Army Reserves 

(25:50 - 33:49) Leading with Confidence 

(33:50 - 38:09) Dreams Moving Forward 

(38:10 - 39:24) Closing