Out of the Blue from MTSU

On this special podcast episode of "Out of the Blue," we follow a bottle of our "world famous" chocolate milk from the farm to the store. See how Agriculture students start their day at the MTSU Dairy Farm, carefully milking the herd and ensuring top-quality care every step of the way. That fresh milk doesn’t travel far—it heads straight to the MTSU Creamery on campus, where it’s crafted into rich, delicious chocolate milk.The best part? It doesn’t stay on campus. Bottled and ready, it makes its way into local stores across the city. Follow us along on the journey to the best chocolate milk in the world! Get more info on the Agriculture program 👉 https://agriculture.mtsu.edu/More info on the MTSU Farm Laboratories 👉 https://agriculture.mtsu.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/65/2024/06/FarmLabsBroc.pdf0:00 - Intro1:31 - Current students discuss caring and milking the cows every day, rain or shine; what goes into the making of chocolate milk from a local farm12:22 - Processing the milk and transporting it to the MTSU Creamery located in the middle of campus. 24:27 - Delivering the chocolate milk to local stores around the city; the impact of a student-first learning environment within the Agriculture program at MTSU with an alumni interview

As the world of athletics continues to evolve, so does the support system behind it. Inside the College of Behavioral and Health Sciences is a new graduate certificate program in Sport Social Work, designed to prepare professionals to meet the unique mental health and social service needs of athletes and athletic communities. On this episode we sit down the Dr. Justin Singleton, the director of the program, and Kobi Jones, the pilot student, who gives us her perspective as the first one through the program.

Effective July 1, 2026, the College of Behavioral and Health Sciences will officially reorganize, bringing new opportunities, fresh leadership structures, and an expanded vision for student success. Dean Peter Grandjean joins us on this podcast to break down what this transformation means for students, faculty, and the future of the college.

Later this year, MTSU will launch a new program, a Master of Science in Legal Studies, collaborating with the Nashville School of Law. On this episode we sit down with the he program's director, Sandy Benson as she explains the ins and outs of what this new program will include and how to apply.

We close out our "Joys of the Season" series of episodes this December with a re-release of last year's "Sleigh Ride," performed by the students of the 2024 MTSU Symphony Orchestra. From the crew of "Out of the Blue," we wish you a merry Christmas and happy holidays!

In this segment of "Joys of the Season," we take you to the warm acoustics of Hinton Hall with a beautiful performance by the MTSU Bassoon Ensemble, led by Dr. Staci Spring and conducted by Dr. Dennis Hawkins of the School of Music.The ensemble presents a rich, expressive rendition of “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.” First introduced by Judy Garland in the 1944 film "Meet Me in St. Louis," this beloved classic has become a cherished holiday standard, reimagined by countless artists over the decades.Join us for this heartfelt interpretation that blends the warm, velvety tones of the bassoon with the nostalgic spirit of the season.

In this segment of "Joys of the Season," join us in Hinton Hall for a stirring performance by the MTSU School of Music’s Schola Cantorum ensemble. Led by Choral Director Dr. Will Chandler, this accomplished vocal group brings breathtaking clarity and richness to one of the season’s most enduring classics: “O, Come All Ye Faithful.”Originating in the 18th century, this beloved carol has been sung across generations and around the world, continuing to unite voices in celebration and joy. Schola Cantorum’s rendition captures the hymn’s timeless beauty, offering a moment of reflection, tradition, and holiday spirit.Settle in for a performance that honors the past while showcasing the exceptional talent of MTSU’s vocal community.

In this video podcast, we take you inside Tucker Theatre for an electrifying musical theatre performance that sets the tone for the entire show. Under the direction of Professor Kristi Shamburger, MTSU theatre students deliver a dynamic rendition of “Turkey Lurkey Time” from the Broadway hit Promises, Promises.Known for its spirited choreography and holiday cheer, this number—originally staged by legendary choreographer Michael Bennett—bursts with energy, precision, and pure joy. Perfect for fans of Broadway, dance, and the performing arts. Tune in and celebrate the season with us!

On this episode, True Blue TV correspondent, Karli Sutton explores how MTSU truly feels like home for generations of Blue Raiders. From parents working on campus to their children following in their footsteps, discover how MTSU’s family-first culture fosters connection, gratitude, and opportunity.Hear from Sophomore Rachel Oppmann and other stories from MTSU families who make the university a true community — where family isn’t just a word, it’s a way of life.📍 Recorded in the MTSU Student Union building

On this episode, we chat with Tyler Adkins, Assistant Director of SPARE, about how this student-led organization brings campus to life through concerts, events, and the popular Party in the Grove tailgate series.From hands-on experience in event planning and artist management to producing MTSU’s annual Spring Concert, SPARE gives students real-world opportunities to create, collaborate, and connect.📍 Recprded inside the MTSU Student Union Building

https://www.mtsu.edu/program/digital-media-m-s/We are live on location in the Scott Borchetta College of Media and Entertainment at MTSU with Dr. Ken Blake who discusses the new online Masters in Digital Media program in the School of Journalism and Strategic Media.

On this episode, founder, Chairman & CEO of Big Machine Label Group, Scott Borchetta reflects on the historic renaming of the College of Media and Entertainment at Middle Tennessee State University.

Engineering professor Dr. Saeed Foroudastan and MTSU Junior Andrew Starkey lead a tour of the Rover and Baja experimental vehicles housed in a new custom lab within the Applied Engineering building.

Mechatronics Engineering alum and current Business grad student Abbie Lee, joins the podcast live from the new Applied Engineering building to discuss her major and the role this new building will play in students' academic learning.

We’re proud to welcome R.J. Ware to the podcast as the newly elected president of Middle Tennessee State University’s Student Government Association.R.J. joins us to discuss his vision, leadership goals, and the key priorities he’s already working on for the upcoming academic year. From student engagement to campus initiatives, get a first look at what’s ahead under his administration.

We’re excited to welcome MTSU alumna Karli Sutton to the "Out of the Blue" team! Starting in September, Karli will be contributing compelling stories to the show and creating video content for our flagship station, True Blue TV.Karli began her broadcasting journey as a reporter and producer for Middle Tennessee News, the student-run news outlet from MTSU’s School of Journalism and Strategic Media. Now, she’s bringing that experience and passion back to the MTSU community in a whole new role.

2025 marks the 10th anniversary of Engage, Middle Tennessee State University’s signature academic initiative that promotes a culture of engaged learning across campus—empowering both students and faculty.Joining us to reflect on a decade of impact is Julie Myatt, director of the Engage program. She shares insights into the program’s evolution, success stories, and its continued role in shaping the True Blue educational experience.

The MTSU Honors College is proud to announce the launch of its official podcast — Honors Spotlight! Through in-depth interviews, Honors Spotlight brings you inside the lives of the students, faculty, and alumni who make the Honors College so unique. From thesis triumphs to global adventures, you'll hear real stories of curiosity, leadership, growth — and the occasional behind-the-scenes laugh.Our first full episode drops Tuesday, August 26 on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3yXoXYWNTUVgbDPMurbn0z?si=lleOOoojQGCb5lQzb4kJKgWhether you're a current student, alum, or just curious about what makes MTSU Honors tick, this is your invitation to listen in.Be sure to follow us on Spotify or subscribe on YouTube (@MTSUHonorsCollege) so you don’t miss an episode.🗓 Mark your calendar: August 26Let’s celebrate the voices that make Honors extraordinary.

Assistant Athletics Director Nathan Wallach, a proud MTSU alumnus, is the driving force behind many of the exciting upgrades happening at Murphy Center and Floyd Stadium. From modern amenities to fan-focused improvements, Nathan is helping shape a new era for Blue Raider athletics.In this conversation, we discuss how these enhancements will improve the day to day of student-athletes while elevating the game-day experience for fans, students, alumni, and the entire MTSU community — making every visit more engaging, comfortable, and memorable.If you love MTSU sports or want a peek behind the scenes of athletic facility innovation, you won’t want to miss this conversation!

The Tourism and Hospitality Management program in MTSU’s College of Behavioral and Health Sciences is gaining attention for all the right reasons — thanks to its forward-thinking, hands-on approach to student success. From immersive experiences to industry partnerships, the program is redefining how future professionals are prepared for careers in this fast-paced, ever-evolving field.Joining us on the podcast is Dr. Elizabeth Whalen, Program Coordinator and passionate advocate for experiential learning. She shares how the program equips students not just for their first job — but for long-term growth, leadership, and career advancement in one of the world’s largest and most dynamic industries.Whether you're a student, parent, or industry insider, you’ll want to hear how MTSU is shaping the future of tourism and hospitality!

MTSU proudly celebrated the 40th anniversary of the Tennessee Governor’s School for the Arts this summer! For over four decades, this prestigious three-week, on-campus intensive has welcomed more than 300 of the state’s most talented high school students, giving them the opportunity to grow, explore, and refine their skills across a wide range of artistic disciplines — from visual arts and music to theater, dance, and beyond.Joining the podcast to shed light on this transformative program is Kate Goodwin, School Director and associate professor in MTSU’s Department of Theatre and Dance. She shares how this immersive experience empowers the next generation of artists and fosters a thriving creative community.

Think agriculture is just cows and crops? Think again! MTSU’s School of Agriculture is one of our standout programs, packed with surprising majors, hands-on learning, and real-world experiences. From digging into soil science to saddling up at the Horse Science Center, students here get way more than just classroom time.In this episode we sit down with Dr. Chaney Mosley to talk farm life, ag tech, and all the amazing ways students are growing their futures—literally!

People are fascinating—and at MTSU, we’ve got a whole department dedicated to figuring them out! Sociology and Anthropology may be two different fields, but they share one big mission: understanding how humans tick, live, connect, and sometimes clash. From ancient bones to modern social movements, students here dive deep into what makes societies work (or not).On this podcast, we chat with Dr. Shannon Hodge, the department’s director, about where curiosity meets career—and how grads are using their people skills to make a real-world impact in everything from nonprofits to public service.

Ever wonder how teachers stay on top of their game?With MTSU’s Center for Educational Media, educators from Tennessee and all over the U.S. get the tools they need to grow—whether it's in person or streaming straight to their screens. From high-tech video production to a massive on-demand library, this place is all about helping teachers shine.We chat with Dr. Laura Clark, the center’s director, and hear about all the cool stuff happening behind the scenes (and behind the camera).

"Sidelines," MTSU’s student-run news media outlet, is marking an incredible milestone: 100 years of informing, engaging, and empowering the campus community. What began as a traditional newspaper has transformed into a dynamic digital platform, now featuring a website and email newsletter — all while staying true to its core mission of providing real journalism by and for students.Joining us on this episode to reflect on the "Sidelines" legacy and share their vision for the future are Editor-in-Chief Noah McLane and Managing Editor Jenene Grover.

MTSU recently celebrated a major milestone: the 75th anniversary of its Army ROTC program. At a special campus ceremony, we recognized the legacy of the Blue Raider Battalion and honored some of the 17 distinguished alumni who achieved the rank of General, along with many others who began their leadership journey here as student cadets.Joining us on this episode to reflect on this proud tradition and share what lies ahead for the program is Lt. Col. Arlin Wilsher, professor of military science and head of MTSU’s Army ROTC.

The Jones College of Business at Middle Tennessee State University is leading the way with a groundbreaking new undergraduate concentration in Neuromarketing and AI. This innovative program blends advanced artificial intelligence tools with neuroscience-based research techniques, giving students hands-on access to a state-of-the-art lab where they can explore how people truly respond to advertising, messaging, and more.Joining us on this episode to dive deeper into this exciting new field is Dr. Gaia Rancati, Assistant Professor of Marketing and Neuromarketing, who shares insights on how this unique concentration is shaping the next generation of marketing professionals.

At MTSU, we believe in the power of applied knowledge—blending classroom learning with real-world work experiences to better prepare students for their careers.In this episode of "Out of the Blue," Carol Swayze, Director of Experiential Learning, joins us to share exciting details about the EXL Scholars Program. This innovative program offers students the opportunity to gain valuable hands-on experience in their chosen fields, bridging the gap between academic theory and practical application.Tune in to learn how the EXL Scholars Program is empowering MTSU students to apply their education in real-world environments and gain skills that will set them up for success.

At MTSU, future educators don't just learn in the classroom—they get the chance to take their teaching experience around the world. While most teacher preparation programs require students to complete a residency in local schools, MTSU goes further, offering an exciting opportunity to complete this residency in one of 15 countries.In this episode of "Out of the Blue," Dr. Tiffany Dellard, Director of the Office of Educator Preparation in the College of Education, joins us to discuss MTSU’s unique partnership with the Consortium for Overseas Student Teaching (COST). Learn about the global residency options that allow students to immerse themselves in diverse educational environments, gain international teaching experience, and expand their cultural horizons before they graduate.Tune in to discover how MTSU is shaping the next generation of educators through global experiences and hands-on learning beyond borders!

In this episode of "Out of the Blue," we sit down with Dr. Todd Moore, the new Chair of the Department of Geosciences at MTSU. The department, part of the College of Basic and Applied Sciences, offers students an opportunity to dive deep into the study of geology, physical geography, geospatial analysis, and environmental science.Dr. Moore discusses the groundbreaking, hands-on research taking place at MTSU, where both students and faculty are using the latest technologies to study and better understand the Earth’s systems. From cutting-edge geospatial tools to field-based investigations, learn how MTSU is fostering an environment of innovation and discovery in the geosciences.

Founded in 1911 as a teacher training institution, MTSU has always been dedicated to shaping the future of education. Today, our College of Education continues that legacy, offering innovative and career-focused degree programs that support educators and instructors at every level.A prime example of this ongoing commitment is the College’s fully online Master’s and Specialist degrees in Higher Education and Instructional Leadership, designed to provide flexible, high-quality learning for aspiring and current professionals.In this episode we dive deeper into these groundbreaking programs, with Dr. Everett Singleton, an associate professor in our Department of Womack Educational Leadership, who will share more about these exciting opportunities.

Students in our Textiles, Merchandising, and Design Department are gearing up for this year's highly anticipated College Fashion Show, set for April 12th. This annual event, hosted by our College of Behavioral and Health Sciences, will feature stunning collections from our Fashion Design and TXMD students and offer invaluable real-world experience for those pursuing careers in fashion design and merchandising.To give us an inside look at this exciting event, we’re joined on this episode by the two senior students who are co-directing the show, Guinneth Sintic and Rebekah Frey. They’ll share details about what to expect and the hard work that’s gone into bringing this showcase to life.

In an exciting partnership, students from MTSU's College of Media and Entertainment are teaming up with a Rutherford County school to teach fifth-graders the art of songwriting, in collaboration with the Country Music Hall of Fame.Now in its third year, this unique program brings together students and faculty from MTSU and the McFadden School of Excellence. They work side by side with fifth-graders, guiding them through the creative process of writing song lyrics while also developing essential language arts skills.This initiative is part of the renowned Words and Music Program, a hallmark of the Country Music Hall of Fame, which has reached over 150,000 students across the Nashville area since its inception in 1979.To dive deeper into this inspiring program, we’re joined by Songwriting Professor Bess Rogers and Alexander Roberecki, a sophomore in the Commercial Songwriting major.

The Albert Gore Research Center at MTSU stands as a national leader in the art and science of oral history, dedicated to capturing the voices of those who have witnessed pivotal moments in history. Through in-depth interviews, the center preserves and shares these invaluable stories for future generations. MTSU Oral Historian Jason McGowan takes us behind the scenes of two major oral history projects he's leading: one commissioned by the National Park Service and the other by the state of Tennessee. These projects are pivotal in preserving critical narratives that help shape our understanding of history and culture.

MTSU is proud to join the Age-Friendly University (AFU) Global Network, earning the distinction of being Tennessee's very first Age-Friendly University. This global network champions positive aging by supporting innovative educational programs, groundbreaking research, curriculum development, arts and culture initiatives, and community engagement—all aimed at promoting health, well-being, and opportunities for older adults. In this episode, we're joined by Dr. Deborah Lee, Professor and holder of the NHC Chair of Excellence in Nursing, and Dr. Ralph Alvarado, Commissioner of the Tennessee Department of Health, who share their insights and celebrate this historic milestone for MTSU and the state of Tennessee.

In this special bonus episode ofOut of the Blue, we’re sharing the full keynote presentation from the 2025 Unity Luncheon, featuring community leader and pastor Jason Scales. Jason takes us on a journey through the true meaning of unity, offering a vision for how communities can come together, break free from past divides, and cultivate a deep sense of belonging. His message inspires us to reimagine what it means to live in harmony, embracing common ground and shared experiences to build stronger, more connected communities.Tune in for an empowering presentation that invites us all to rise above old narratives and step into a future of true unity.

February is Black History Month at MTSU, a time dedicated to honoring the rich history, contributions, and achievements of the African-American community. At MTSU, we embrace this month as an opportunity to spotlight the significant impact made by "unsung heroes" within our campus and local communities. In this episode, we’re joined by Danielle Rochelle, Director of Intercultural and Diversity Affairs at MTSU, who shares insights into the exciting events and programming planned for Black History Month. Danielle also discusses the vital work of the committee behind these efforts and the ongoing commitment to diversity and inclusion at MTSU.

We’re thrilled to introduce Dr. Khalilah Doss, who joined MTSU as Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students at the start of the 2024-25 academic year. From day one, Dr. Doss has hit the ground running, quickly becoming a prominent and dedicated presence on our campus. Her passion for student success and commitment to making a positive impact have already made a lasting impression. She’s on the podcast to share her key priorities for the year ahead and give us a glimpse into the exciting work she’s doing to support our students.

We’re spotlighting MTSU’s Professional Counseling graduate degree program, offered through our College of Education. This program provides students with concentrations in two highly sought-after fields: clinical mental health counseling and school counseling. In addition to its academic offerings, the program’s Center for Counseling and Psychological Services gives students invaluable hands-on experience while also serving the mental health needs of our campus community. To tell us more about this incredible opportunity, we’re joined by Dr. Robin Lee, the program coordinator and clinical director of the center.

Nearly six years ago, MTSU's College of Basic and Applied Sciences joined forces with Meharry Medical College to create an exciting opportunity for aspiring medical students. The Medical School Early Admissions Program was designed to select incoming freshmen for a fast-track path—allowing them to complete their bachelor's degree at MTSU and secure direct entry into medical school after graduation. To share more details is Eric Miller, the program’s dedicated site coordinator.

The annual tradition of closing out our 'Joys of the Season' holiday show with a performance of "Sleigh Ride" goes to the talented students of the MTSU Symphony Orchestra. Happy Holidays from Out of the Blue!

In this podcast segment from our 'Joys of the Season' episode, we're transported to the beautiful Hinton Hall in MTSU's School of Music, where the MTSU Cello Ensemble, under the direction of Dr. Bryan Hayslett, an Assistant Professor of Cello, brings a fresh and dynamic twist to holiday music. In this special performance, the ensemble will be playing Dr. Hayslett's original arrangement of three beloved Christmas carols, titled "Halls Upon The Merry Housetop." The performance opens with the lively and festive tune "Up On The Housetop," setting the stage for a vibrant and joyful holiday experience. From there, the music seamlessly transitions into a wintry interlude, leading into the traditional English carols "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen" and "Deck The Halls." Dr. Hayslett's arrangement beautifully blends these timeless holiday classics with the lush, resonant sounds of the cello ensemble, creating a rich, energetic atmosphere that is both heartwarming and captivating. With its unique take on familiar carols, this arrangement showcases the full range of the cello’s rich tones, from sparkling high notes to deep, resonant lows, and fills the space with the spirit of the season. Whether you're a longtime fan of the cello or discovering its beauty for the first time, this performance is sure to delight and bring a festive warmth to your holiday celebrations. Enjoy this musical treat from the MTSU Cello Ensemble!

In this segment from our holiday episode of 'Joys of the Season,' Professor Debrah Sickler-Voigt from our Department of Art and Design guides us through a fun and creative holiday craft for all ages—a Stamped Flour Clay Ornament with a Haiku! This easy and charming project can be done right in your own kitchen, making it the perfect holiday activity for the whole family. Tune in as we learn how to create these beautiful, personalized ornaments that will add a special touch to your holiday décor!

In this exciting performance, the talented cast of 'She Loves Me' takes the stage at MTSU's Tucker Theatre, directed by Associate Professor of Theatre Kristi Shamburger. Set in a quaint Budapest parfumerie, 'She Loves Me' tells the story of two coworkers who unknowingly fall in love through anonymous letters. This video podcast features a lively and fun performance of the song "Twelve Days to Christmas" from the recent mainstage production produced by MTSU's Department of Theatre and Dance. With an upbeat, festive energy, the song captures the whirlwind pace of the holiday season, where time seems to slip away as the pressure of shopping and holiday preparations builds. You'll surely find yourself relating to the characters' excitement and frantic energy as they race against the clock—only twelve days left until Christmas!

MTSU has introduced Dr. Peter Grandjean as the new dean of the College of Behavioral and Health Sciences, following a rigorous national search. Dr. Grandjean officially took the reins on July 1, bringing with him a wealth of experience from his previous role as dean of the School of Applied Sciences and professor of Exercise Science at the University of Mississippi in Oxford. Under his leadership, the College of Behavioral and Health Sciences aims to provide top-notch education and training in health, mental health, and human services—setting a new standard for excellence in our state. Join us in welcoming Dr. Grandjean as he embarks on this exciting journey to enhance our programs and support the next generation of professionals in these vital fields!

Did you know that MTSU offers the first Fermentation Science degree program in Tennessee? It’s a unique gem in the Southeast, and it encompasses so much more than just brewing beer! This innovative program is tailored for students passionate about the science and art of fermentation across a wide array of applications—from delicious foods and beverages to industrial chemicals, medications, water treatment, flavors, and aromas. Whether you dream of crafting artisan cheeses or developing new therapeutic medications, this major provides the essential skills and knowledge to thrive in diverse industries. To dive deeper into this program, we’re joined by Professor Keely O’Brien, the director of the Fermentation Science program. Join us as she shares insights about the curriculum, opportunities for hands-on experience, and the vibrant community of students and faculty who are shaping the future of fermentation!

A dedicated trio of professors from MTSU’s College of Basic and Applied Sciences has been awarded a prestigious $1.2 million grant from the National Science Foundation! This significant funding will support groundbreaking research aimed at enhancing the teaching and learning of STEM fields—science, technology, engineering, and math—right here on our campus. On this episode we sit down with Mathematical Sciences professor Dr. Sarah Bleiler-Baxter and Chemistry professor Dr. Greg Rushton, who share insights into their decade-long journey to bring this vision to fruition. Discover how their innovative ideas will not only benefit faculty but also transform the educational experience for students at MTSU. More info 👉 https://mtsunews.com/mtsu-faculty-awarded-nsf-grant/

Discover a hidden gem at MTSU: the School Psychology graduate program! This exceptional program boasts more job offers from prospective employers than graduates, highlighting its strong reputation and the high demand for its professionals. Designed as a field-based program, it includes a year-long capstone internship that provides invaluable hands-on experience. Graduates will leave MTSU with not just one, but two degrees, equipping them for successful careers in a rewarding field. On this episode, Dr. Amiee Holt and Dr. Madeline Berkowitz from the College of Behavioral and Health Sciences share insights into this outstanding program and what makes it a top choice for aspiring school psychologists

The Urban Entertainment Society (UES) is a student organization based out of College of Media and Entertainment at MTSU. United by their diverse talents and passions, this dynamic group is dedicated to creating on-campus showcase opportunities for students across a wide spectrum of entertainment arts, including music, spoken word, dance, and more. Two dedicated students, Keston Jones and Azzie Dennison, join us on this episode to share their journey of reviving this beloved organization. Their commitment to bringing UES back to life is truly a labor of love, and they are eager to reinvigorate the campus with engaging events and opportunities for all students.

The Executive Education Center at MTSU’s Jones College of Business is dedicated to empowering professionals and businesses in middle Tennessee by providing dynamic and accessible opportunities for skill development. The center offers a wide range of innovative programs designed to help individuals and teams "skill up to level up." These initiatives support lifelong learning and career advancement, whether the goal is to enhance your leadership capabilities, improve team performance, or to simply adapt to industry changes. On this episode, Carly Escue, the center’s director, shares valuable insights about the programs available and how they can transform your professional journey.