How a Franchise Owner Overcame Setbacks to Lead Detroit’s Water Dept. | Degrees of Success Podcast #05

In this episode of the Degrees of Success Podcast, host Freda Richards sits down with Matthew Phillips, a University of Phoenix alum, former franchise owner, and current Chief of Staff for the City of Detroit’s Water Department. Matthew opens up about the pivotal moments that shaped his career, from missed opportunities to the life-changing experience of open-heart surgery. He also shares the challenges of running a franchise and his unexpected transition into nonprofit leadership, where he ultimately became the CEO of a large organization. Matthew is quick to tell you that he has a lot to say—and he does it in a way that’s sure to make you laugh. But behind the humor lies a story of resilience, determination, and the power of education to pivot careers and overcome life’s obstacles. Whether you’re navigating career transitions, facing personal setbacks, or looking for inspiration on how to move forward, Matthew’s story offers valuable lessons on perseverance and finding success through unexpected paths. The Degrees of Success podcast by the University of Phoenix highlights the inspiring journeys of alumni who’ve transformed their careers and lives through education. Each episode showcases stories of overcoming challenges, finding purpose, and achieving professional milestones. Tune in to hear how education and perseverance can help you shape your own path to success.   Learn more about the MBA program at UOPX!     👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/online-business-degrees/mba-competency-based-degree.html   Subscribe for more powerful success stories and mindset strategies!   👉 https://www.youtube.com/@UOPXDegreesOfSuccessPodcast   Matthew Phillips on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-phillips-83696610/    Alumni Chronicles | Matthew’s Story   https://www.phoenix.edu/blog/uopx-alumni-spotlight-matthew-phillips.html   Alumni Chronicles | Main Page https://www.phoenix.edu/blog/alumni-c...   Explore the Degrees of Success Podcast Page:https://www.phoenix.edu/blog/alumni-chronicles/podcast.html Explore the University of Phoenix: https://www.phoenix.edu/   ►TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@uopx ► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/universityofphoenix ► Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uopx/ ► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/school/university-of-phoenix/ ► X: https://x.com/UOPX   📱 Request info today: https://www.phoenix.edu/request/request-information 💻 Apply to one of UOPX’s online programs today: https://rb.gy/k0a75c 🎓 Find your degree program University of Phoenix: https://www.phoenix.edu/online-degrees/find-your-program.html