Unstoppable Stories S. 2 Ep. 7: Fairways and Friendships, Lessons Beyond the Score with Ben Thapa

Host Nathan James sits down with systems engineer and UMGC alumnus, Ben Thapa to trace the thread from Nepal to night classes, from a first IT role to a multi decade career built on routine, persistence, and family support. Ben explains how early mornings, long commutes, and library nights created momentum, and why staying curious kept doors opening at work and at school.He shares the story behind playing golf in all 50 states and on every continent, including a bucket list swing in Antarctica, and how the real goal was never the scorecard but the friendships and check ins that followed. Along the way he highlights the master’s decision, the campus resources that helped, and a people first mindset that turns busy schedules into lasting community. Listen for lessons on structure, gratitude, and connection that apply far beyond the fairway.Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments!To learn more about UMGC, visit: UMGC.edu/Unstoppable.Host: Nathan JamesGuest: Ben Thapa, Systems Engineer, Author, UMGC alumnusTime Stamps & Show Notes: (00:00 - 00:22) People first(00:22 - 00:53) Welcome(00:54 - 03:10) Golf origins(03:11 - 05:04) Work and UMGC(05:05 - 09:12) Daily grind(09:13 - 12:34) Family view(12:35 - 16:08) First IT role(16:09 - 20:32) Master’s decision(20:33 - 24:10) 50 states, 7 continents(24:11 - 29:39) Staying in touch(29:40 - 32:43) Connection over loneliness(32:44 - 33:32) Gratitude and close