Knight Mic, the official podcast of Middle Georgia State University

Knight Mic: The Weird World of ParasitesParasites may sound like something out of a horror movie, but they’re also at the center of fascinating scientific discovery.In this episode of Knight Mic, hosts Dr. Kristie Roberts-Lewis and Rick Devens sit down with Dr. Tyler Achatz to explore the strange and surprising world of parasitology. Achatz shares how his research is gaining national recognition and explains how studying parasites can reveal important insights about ecosystems, biodiversity, and the hidden relationships between species.The conversation also highlights the opportunities Achatz creates for students, including hands-on research experiences and international fieldwork in places like Australia. Along the way, he discusses the thrill of scientific discovery, like identifying and naming newly discovered parasites, and what it’s like to contribute something entirely new to science.And because parasites can be a little creepy, the episode ends with a fun question: if filmmaker Steven Spielberg were making a movie about a parasite, which one would make the most terrifying star?

What does it take to be a Middle Georgia State Knight? Hosts Dr. Kristie Roberts-Lewis and Rick Devens welcome MGA Athletic Director Michael Brown to Knight Mic for an engaging discussion about the heart of MGA Athletics.Brown shares his passion for respecting the long, proud history of MGA sports while driving the program toward exciting new horizons. The conversation zeroes in on the move to NCAA Division II and the Peach Belt Conference, detailing the new opportunities available for MGA student-athletes.Hear about the day-to-day commitment of MGA’s dedicated student-athletes, the support systems in place for their success, and how this new conference affiliation strengthens the MGA community and regional pride.Go Knights!

In the third episode of Knight Mic, hosts Dr. Kristie Roberts-Lewis and Rick Devens, sit down with the Dr. Tara Underwood, Dean of the School of Health Sciences, and Dr. Patrice Pierce, the Chair of the Department of Nursing, to explore how MGA is shaping the next generation of healthcare professionals.The conversation covers MGA’s distinctive approach to nursing and health sciences education, the rapidly evolving healthcare landscape, and how students are being prepared for careers in technology-driven, patient-centered care. The episode also highlights MGA’s partnership with Piedmont Macon, including a major investment that funds a new clinical instructor position, expanding student access to clinical placements and strengthening real-world connections between education and healthcare practice.

In our second episode of Knight Mic, hosts Dr. Kristie Roberts-Lewis and Rick Devens sit down with Dr. Scott Spangler, associate professor in MGA’s Department of Information Technology, to spotlight the launch of the University’s new Bachelor of Applied Artificial Intelligence degree.Dr. Spangler unpacks what “applied AI” really means, how this innovative program differs from traditional computer science, and the skills students will gain to prepare for careers in one of today’s fastest-growing fields. He also shares how the program is designed to meet workforce needs in Middle Georgia and beyond, the ethical responsibilities that come with AI, and the opportunities ahead for students eager to shape the future.

Hosted by Dr. Kristie Roberts-Lewis, executive director of the Center for Middle Georgia Studies, and Rick Devens, director of communications, Knight Mic will spotlight the voices and stories that make MGA unique. Each episode will feature conversations with faculty, students, alumni, and community partners about the impactful work shaping both our University and the Middle Georgia region.In our debut episode, MGA President Dr. Christopher Blake reflects on the university’s first decade and looks ahead to the next 10 years. President Blake shares highlights from MGA’s journey since becoming a university, the milestones that have shaped its identity, and his vision for where we’re headed.

The term "gaslighting" is everywhere, but do you know what it actually means? In Episode 6 of Knight Mic, hosts Dr. Kristie Roberts-Lewis and Rick Devens dive into a topic that has taken over social media and modern conversation: gaslighting. To help listeners go beyond the buzzword, they are joined by Dr. Chase Avera to explore the deep psychology behind this form of manipulation.The conversation traces the origin of the term "gaslighting" and breaks down what is actually happening to the brain and emotions when someone is being manipulated. Dr. Avera shares common phrases behaviors to watch for, the long-term effects on mental health, and practical strategies to protect your well-being and set boundaries without getting pulled into arguments.

In Episode 5 of Knight Mic, hosts Dr. Kristie Roberts-Lewis and Rick Devens shine a spotlight on the President’s Torch Society, one of the highest student honors at Middle Georgia State University. Joined by Torch Society advisor Kim Wasden and student member Lorenzo Durden, the conversation explores how this prestigious group cultivates leadership, integrity, and service among some of MGA’s most outstanding students.Wasden and Durden share what it means to be selected as a Torch Society ambassador, the impact of the two-year leadership journey, and how members carry the torch forward by representing MGA on campus, in the community, and beyond.