SNHU Agents of Change Podcast

Advocating for Underrepresented Voices: Interview with SNHU graduate Dr. Zaibis Muñoz-Isme on Latina leadership and overcoming barriers in higher education executive roles.  Guset Host: Ron Pedro.

Lasting Equality in New Hampshire: Civil and Human Rights of Children and Adults with Disabilities. Interview with SNHU graduate Dr. Louis Esposito, who earned both his undergraduate degrees and his recent Ed.D. from Southern New Hampshire University, on how students with autism develop positive identities through inclusive educational transitions to higher education. Special Guest Host: Ronald Pedro; Director: Laman Tasch. 

Curbing Violence: The Therapeutic Intervention Model feat. Dr. Mary Hinson. In this episode, we explore transparent discussions about a societal phenomenon where many men are expected to remain emotionally distant. We discover how Dr. Hinson is helping communities reimagine what a healthy connection looks like — introducing Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) in ways that are not only culturally sensitive but also transformative. Episode Host/Producer/Director: Dr. Hector R. Garcia           Dr. Mary Hinson   Dr. Hinson's consultation to graduate students at USIU (United States International Univ)   Dr. Hinson presenting to graduate students at Pan Africa Christian Univ.   Dr. Hector R. Garcia, Host, Producer & Director   

Education in Crisis: Understanding the Opioid Epidemic's Impact - An Interview with Dr. Kathy Welby, a 2019 SNHU Ed.D. graduate and currently an assistant professor at Merrimack College and a Zampell Faculty Fellow - explores how the opioid crisis impacts schools, students, and educators. Special Guest Host: Ron Pedro. 

Beyond the Numbers: Rethinking How We Value Women's Work. Interview with SNHU Psychology student Greer Pohl, whose winning essays can be read here: https://penmenreview.com/one-action-for-all-accelerating-womens-equality-together/     Host: Dr. Laman Tasch 

Season 5 Episode 11 focuses on how one woman's unwavering pursuit of education transformed her life from Afghanistan to an American university. Host: Dr. Laman Tasch 

Beyond Borders: Healing Across the Frontlines feat. Dr. David Olges, a two-time recipient of the American Counseling Association’s prestigious Kitty Coles Human Rights Award, shares groundbreaking insights on mental health counseling in Ukraine during an active war. This episode explores Dr. Olge's work creating the first-ever international conflict-zone mental health model and how it's now being applied across cultures and in global crisis zones.    Episode Host/Producer/Director: Dr. Hector R. Garcia         Dr. David Olges in Kiev, Ukraine               Host/Producer/Director            Dr. Hector R. Garcia 

Women's Leadership in the 21st Century: Part 2 of the interview Jhenise Cochrane, a SNHU alumni and an author of the book titled Becoming an Effective Leader. A Leadership Guide and Journal (https://becominganeffectiveleader.co/) . Summary: This podcast episode explores the complex landscape of women's leadership, examining the unique challenges, distinctive strengths, and transformative potential of women in leadership roles while offering strategic insights for cultivating more inclusive and supportive professional environments.  Host: Laman Tasch 

Grammy Award Artist Kabaka Pyramid shares his perspectives on the roots and rhythms of Caribbean Black History. Special Guest Interviewer: Southern New Hampshire University PenMen Winner & Alumni Nacyllia Chambers. Edited by Tom Anastasi. Host & Director: Dr. Hector R. Garcia                 Kabaka Pyramid  Kabaka Pyramid, born Keron Salmon, is a Grammy Award-winning Rastafarian lyricist known for blending Reggae, Hip Hop, and Dancehall to deliver conscious messages, revolutionizing Jamaican music. A key figure in the Reggae Revival movement, he gained recognition with Rebel Music in 2011, followed by hits like “No Capitalist” and “Never Gonna Be a Slave.” His debut album Kontraband (2018), produced by Damian Marley, solidified his global presence, with tracks like “Reggae Music” surpassing 10 million views. His sophomore album, The Kalling (2022), also produced by Marley, won a Grammy for Best Reggae Album. A dynamic live performer, he has toured worldwide, headlined major reggae festivals, and collaborated with artists like Chronixx, Buju Banton, and Protoje. Through his independent label, Bebble Rock, and projects like Victory Rock rhythm and Immaculate Mixtape, he continues to push musical boundaries while championing social commentary and black pride.  “An unprecedented blend of Reggae and Hip Hop to deliver songs of social commentary and black pride.” - Mojo Follow Kabaka Pyramid: Instagram | Facebook | X/Twitter Listen to Kabaka’s debut album ‘The Kalling’ : www.kabakapmusic.com   SNHU Alumni Nacyllia Chambers             Dr. Hector R. Garcia 

In this special Black History Month podcast, Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) Office of Diversity & Inclusion, Program Manager Jen Torres, discusses antiblackness in the LatinX community. Guest interviewers: SNHU Penmen Award-winning student Samantha Spearin and SNHU alumni student Racquel Becknel. Producer: SNHU Student Kenya Miller Robinson. Edited by Racquel Becknel. Director & Host: Dr. Hector R. Garcia.    Program Manager Jen Torres Racquel Becknel, Interviewer & Editor  Samantha Spearin, Interviewer   Kenya Miller Robinson, Episode Producer 

In this special 2025 Black History Month podcast, the Honorable Jaime Harrison, 2024-2025 Chairman of the U.S. Democratic National Committee, provides his personal reflections on the importance of Black History in the U.S. This podcast also features SNHU student and PenMen Award Winner Ana Duarte who serves as the guest interviewer for this podcast. Director: Dr. Laman Tasch.      Mr. Jaime Harrison As the son of a single teenage mom, Jaime Harrison was raised by his grandparents in Orangeburg, South Carolina. Jaime knows what it’s like for a family to choose between paying the electric bill and putting food on the table and what it feels like to sleep in a home with no heat because the power was shut off. But thanks to a good public school education, his family's love, and his community's support, Jaime earned a scholarship to Yale University and attended Georgetown Law. After college, Jaime returned to Orangeburg to teach at his old high school, then worked to help empower disadvantaged kids to attend college. Jaime also served as an aide to legendary South Carolina Congressman Jim Clyburn. In 2013, Jaime was elected the first African American chair of the South Carolina Democratic Party, a position he held until 2017 when DNC Chair Tom Perez appointed him as an Associate Chair of the DNC. In 2020, Jaime ran for the U.S. Senate from South Carolina, building a national grassroots movement and setting a fundraising record for the most raised by a Senate candidate. Jaime and his wife Marie live in Columbia, South Carolina, where they raise their two young sons.      Ana Duarte 

Leading Tomorrow: Building Leadership Skills in University. Part 1. Interview with Jhenise Cochrane, an SNHU alumni and an author of the book titled Becoming an Effective Leader. A Leadership Guide and Journal (https://becominganeffectiveleader.co/).  Host: Laman Tasch

Part III, "Supporting Students Experiencing Domestic Abuse,": Guests discuss various definitions of domestic abuse, power dynamics, and myths to provide strategies for supporting affected learners. Hosts: Laman Tasch & Dr. Amanda Dolan. Guests: Dr. Caroline Perjessy (Clinical Faculty, Counseling Program), Dr. Shauna Moore-Reynolds (Clinical Faculty, Counseling Program), Beth Anderson (Associate Director of the Deborah L. Coffin Women’s Center at SNHU)

Breaking Barriers, Part II, “Empowered Connections: Unlocking Healthy Relationships,” explores how early education about healthy relationships shapes future decisions, empowers women, impacts power dynamics, and dispels myths surrounding abusive relationships, ultimately contributing to personal well-being and success. Director/Producer: Laman Tasch; Host: Dr. Amanda Dolan (Senior Instructional Designer, Learning Design Team); Guests: Dr. Natasha LaMarr (Clinical Faculty, Counseling Program), Dr. Shauna Moore-Reynolds (Clinical Faculty, Counseling Program).

This series will explore how higher education can support and empower survivors. Through expert insights and inspiring stories, we examine challenges, highlight solutions, and showcase education's transformative power in rebuilding lives and fostering resilience. Part I “Defining The Invisible: Domestic Abuse 1:1” explores common misconceptions, societal factors, language considerations, and educational challenges related to domestic abuse, with a focus on empowering survivors through education and career opportunities. Director/Producer: Laman Tasch; Host: Dr. Amanda Dolan (Senior Instructional Designer, Learning Design Team); Guests: Dr. Natasha LaMarr (Clinical Faculty, Counseling Program), Dr. Shauna Moore-Reynolds (Clinical Faculty, Counseling Program)

Inside Jonestown: Stephan G. Jones, Son of the Rev. Jim Jones, Speaks on Family, Faith, and Survival - In this episode, Stephan G. Jones opens up about his childhood growing up with the Rev. Jim Jones, his experiences in the Jonestown cult, the devastating events of its tragic end, and his path to understanding, healing, and survival after the unfathomable losses in Jonestown.  Host: Dr. Hector R. Garcia; Special Guest Interviewer & Producer: Amanda Hunter.   Stephan G. Jones, son of the Rev. Jim Jones of The Peoples Temple      Dr. Hector R. Garcia, Host    Guest Interviewer & Producer: Amanda Hunter   

Presentation by Dr.Laman Tasch, Dr. Tom Anastasi, Prof. Jeremy Pedigo, and ASHU Director of AI Operations David Humphreys. In this presentation, Dr. Laman Tasch, Dr. Tom Anastasi, Prof. Jeremy Pedigo, and SNHU Director of AI Operations David Humphreys discuss what everyone needs to know to be savvy voters in an age when artificial intelligence increasingly influences the information available to us. If you are interested in the links mentioned in the presentation, please contact Dr. Laman Tasch at [email protected].  Host: Dr. Laman Tasch. 

Interview with US Air Force veteran Adam Gubitosi about supporting military students in their transition to civilian careers.  Host: Dr. Laman Tasch.

In this exclusive podcast episode, incoming Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) President Lisa Marsh Ryerson discusses her vision for the future of SNHU.  Host: Dr. Hector R. Garcia; Producer and Editor: Megan Smith.  SNHU President Dr. Lisa Marsh Ryerson    Host: Dr. Hector R. Garcia    Producer and Editor: Megan Smith

Interview with Allison Cohen, a Senior Applied Projects Manager at Mila Quebec within AI for Humanity Team. For more information about their work, please visit Applied Projects | Mila.    Host: Dr. Laman Tasch. 

Scripting the Future: AI and Writing in Higher Education: Conversation with Dr. Julie Minnaugh.  Host: Dr. Laman Tasch. 

Branch Davidian follower Kristin Hunsaker updates us on the sect's current status, the Mt. Carmel compound, and the Branch Davidians' future outlook. Host: Dr. Hector R. Garcia.                 Kristin Hunsaker        Instagram: @color_cool_forest       Facebook: Kristin Hunsaker     Waco Siege 1993                                      Mt. Carmel Site 2024 Church at Mt. Carmel at the site of the former Branch Davidian Compound   Waco Siege survivor David Thibodeau with Kristin Hunsaker   Waco Siege survivor Heather Jones with Kristin Hunsaker   Reflections Drawing of the Waco Siege for Heather Jones - painted by Kristin Hunsaker  Waco Siege survivor Clive Doyle with Kristin Hunsaker 

  In the culminating event of the 2024 Black History Month celebrations, SNHU Student Minority Group members interview Dr. Marc Johnson who spearheads the SNHU Black Learner Initiative.     Special Student Guest Interviewers & Producers:  Ana Duarte, Student Minority Group Lead   Megan Smith, Student Minority Group Member  Podcast professionally edited by Megan Smith   Executive Producer/Director/Host: Dr. Hector R. Garcia 

In this special edition podcast in celebration of Black History Month 2024, Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) Chief Diversity & Inclusion Officer & Senior Vice President Jada Hebra discusses diversity, equity, and belonging initiatives at SNHU.    Special Guest Interviewer: SNHU Graduate Student Nacyllia Chambers   Director & Host: Dr. Hector R. Garcia 

Restorative practices in indigenous communities of North America: what we can learn from hundreds of years of experience. Interview with anonymous community member of Mi’kmaq nation, Nova Scotia, Canada.  Host: Dr. Laman Tasch 

SNHU graduate student Nacyllia Chambers shares personal experiences on persisting and achieving educational goals while overcoming obstacles and challenges.  Host: Dr. Hector R. Garcia    SNHU Graduate Student Nacyllia Chambers

In this special edition podcast, former Ferguson, MO, Police Chief Delrish Moss provides insights into his leadership strategies to reform the department after the Michael Brown shooting.    Director/Host: Dr. Hector R. Garcia   Guest Commentator   J. Maria Waters, Esquire, legal subject matter expert, and SNHU Criminal Justice Graduate program Adjunct Faculty member.    Switch Project  

Interview with Shila LeBlanc: Demystifying and Applying Restorative Approaches in Higher Education. Host: Dr. Laman Tasch 

Dr. Mike Evans, a use of force and critical stress events subject matter expert, discusses the emotional aftermath of critical incidents on police officers. Host: Dr. Hector R. Garcia    Guest Bio: Dr. Michael Evans is a Certified Force Analyst and Advance Force Specialist from the Force Science Institute and an expert in force concerning human performance factors during critical stress events. He is a use of force and law enforcement expert with Great Wolf Consulting and Development. He has instructed on use of force and law enforcement practices for almost 18 years in his 25 years of law enforcement service.   

  Dr. Rick Mask, author of Social Capital 2.0, describes the importance of social capital in educational and professional endeavors and beyond.   Host: Dr. Hector R. Garcia  Guest Bio: Dr. Rick L. Mask is a leadership strategy consultant, dean, adjunct professor, and author of Social Capital 2.0. For over a decade, Dr. Mask has been leading and developing teams through skills gained in the classroom and in the field. Dr. Mask focuses his work on growing human capital within organizations by utilizing neuroscience, the constructs of social capital, and the principles presented in The Leadership Challenge. Dr. Mask guides organizations to an understanding of what it takes to lead others through the removal of personal barriers and the creation of true human connection. Book:  Social Capital 2.0  Ted X: Building Social Capital 

Interview with the author of "America's Critical Thinking Crisis: The Failure and the Promise of Education" Dr. Steven Pearlman.  Host: Dr. Laman Tasch 

Members of the SNHU Social Sciences Student Minority Group interview Dr. Kendra Thomas on the topic of colorism, its origins, its characteristics, and how to eliminate colorism in our society. Host/Director: Dr. Hector R Garcia / Special Guest Host/Producer/Editor: SNHU Student Racquel Becknel / Guest Interviewers: SNHU Students Jasmine Brown, Tiffany Brice & Annabelle Snook.  This special edition podcast was researched, written, produced, co-directed, and edited by SNHU students.     Dr. Kendra Thomas    SNHU Student Racquel Becknel   

SNHU staff and employees celebrate International Women's Day: sharing stories of inspirational women. Host: Dr. Laman Tasch Accompanying Resource: SNHU employees and students share stories of Wonder Women in their lives.    

In this special SNHU Student Persistence Series, SNHU student Daina Gingras, a former professional ballet dancer, discusses her journey to becoming an intelligence analyst. Joined by SNHU Adjunct Professor James Henderson, they describe valuable tips and strategies for achieving both career and educational goals. Host: Dr. Hector R. Garcia 

The Million Woman March founder, Dr. Phile Chionesu, reflects on the historic event with the SNHU Student Minority group. Host: Dr. Hector R. Garcia / Special Guest Interviewer SNHU Student Trixy Lemell. Cameo: SNHU Student General Parker. Professionally edited by SNHU Student Racquel Becknel. Special thanks to the members of the SNHU Student Minority Group: Global Black History for producing and coordinating this special edition podcast. 

SNHU President Dr. Paul LeBlanc shares personal insights into the business of transforming lives through the development and nurturing of personal relationships, as highlighted in his book: Broken: How Our Social Systems Are Failing Us.   Host: Dr. Laman Tasch

SNHU Student Kasey Dumont describes her experience implementing a new inmate program to reduce recidivism at her correctional institution. Producer/Director: Dr. Hector R. Garcia / Special Guest Host: Dr. David Olges 

Mission to Ukraine Director Irina Vengvloska and Chief Medical Officer Dr. Oleksandra Bashek, along with SNHU Clinical Professor of Mental Health Counseling, Dr. David Olges, provide insights into the service and activities of Mission to Ukraine during the war with Russia. Host: Dr. Hector R. Garcia                 Irina Vengvloska, Director, Mission to Ukraine    Disclaimer: The Southern New Hampshire University Social Sciences Department provides this podcast for educational purposes only, and reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by SNHU. The views expressed by podcast guests and speakers are their own, and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by SNHU employees are those solely of the employees and do not necessarily reflect the view of SNHU or any of its officials.

Major Fred Watson, Atlanta Police Department, reflects on the fateful day fellow police officer Mark Cross was killed in the line of duty investigating a suspicious vehicle in Atlanta, Ga.  Host: Dr. Jeff Czarnec    

Dr. Natasha Johnon, Clinical Instructor @ Georgia State University, discusses Law Enforcement Agencies’ College Education Hiring Requirements and Racial Differences in Police-Related Fatalities. Host: Dr. Jeff Czarnec 

Southern New Hampshire University Career Services Specialist, David Gordon Buresh, an Indigenous man of Abenaki and Chippewa descent, provides historical insights into the Thanksgiving event from his Indigenous culture's viewpoint. Host: Dr. Laman Tasch / Produced by Dr. Hector R. Garcia.   Guest Bio: David Gordon Buresh is the Career Services Specialist with Southern New Hampshire University and an Indigenous man of Abenaki and Chippewa descent. He was raised as part of the Abenaki Nation of Missisquoi Swanton, as well as the Nembesak band of the Abenaki. He is a volunteer coordinator for Lakota Kidz in support of the National Day of Mourning. He is a writer, journalist, and a political activist supporting Indigenous rights in the United States. Disclaimer: Mr. Buresh is not a representative of the United American Indians of New England, and his views on this podcast are solely his own and may not be representative of the United American Indians of New England.   

Historical contexts and viewpoints regarding the background of the current war between Russia and Ukraine are discussed by a panel of experts. Host: Dr. Laman Tasch / Produced by: Dr. Hector R. Garcia 

In this first of a three-part series that will focus on international counseling and Ukraine, Dr. Olges discusses the myriad of opportunities for students to become involved with international counseling. Host: Seth Matthews 

Dr. Gwen Britton, Southern New Hampshire University Vice President for Product Strategy, chronicles her leadership journey and shares advice on how to support female learners in industries where women have been traditionally underrepresented. Host: Dr. Laman Tasch

Southern New Hampshire University Adjunct Dr. Jamie Franco highlights the impact of social media on students and the learning process. Host: Dr. Laman Tasch. 

Atlanta Police Department Major Fred Watson discusses current department initiatives to include strategies, recruitment, and community interaction in a large metropolitan US police department. Host: Dr. Jeff Czarnec. 

SNHU Director Derilene McCloud provides insights into the valuable work that University Partnerships provides to SNHU partners and current learners. Host: Dr. Hector R. Garcia 

United States Secret Service Resident Agent in Charge, Timothy R. Benitez, discusses issues related to cybercrime and its implications for the American people. Host: Dr. Jeff Czarnec

Ms. Sashy O'Connor provides insights into the non-profit employment group that supports disabled persons in their return to the workplace and that facilitates professional development opportunities for minority students. Host: Dr. Jeff Czarnec 

Dr. Lowell Matthews concludes his discussion on the success of Project AIM and how it has impacted incarcerated learners. Host: Dr. Jeff Czarnec