Cristo Rey Creates Podcast

Pathways to Success, Ep. 14: Anita Clemon, Viva Health

In this episode of Pathways to Success, host Amber Carroll sits down with Anita Clemon, Executive Director of Access & Engagement at Viva Health, for a conversation about overcoming challenges, breaking barriers, and making a difference in healthcare. Ms. Clemon shares her remarkable career journey, offering powerful insights into leadership, mentorship, and creating access to healthcare for underserved communities. From discussing her personal struggles to providing invaluable advice for aspiring professionals, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to make a meaningful impact in their career. Tune in to hear Ms. Clemon's wisdom on resilience, passion, and the importance of never giving up on your dreams.

Pathways to Success, Ep. 13: Terry Cummings, Protective Life

In this episode of Pathways to Success, host Jamaal Wilson sits down with Terry Cummings, Senior Associate of Talent Development at Protective Life. Mr. Cummings shares his remarkable journey from accounting to human resources, revealing how passion, perseverance, and self-awareness can transform a career. Listeners will gain insights into professional development, overcoming workplace challenges, and the importance of building meaningful relationships. Mr. Cummings discusses his work in diversity and inclusion, offers advice for aspiring professionals, and provides a candid look at his personal and professional growth. Whether you're a student, young professional, or looking to reinvent your career, this episode offers valuable lessons on navigating the corporate world with authenticity and purpose.

Pathways to Success, Ep. 12: Allison Kam, Encompass Health

In this "Pathways to Success" episode, host Amber Carroll sits down with Allison Kam, a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) specialist at Encompass Health. Kam shares their unique career journey from studying neuroscience to becoming a DEI professional, offering candid insights into finding purpose and navigating professional challenges. Through personal stories of overcoming mental health struggles and seeking belonging, Kam discusses the critical role of DEI in healthcare and corporate environments. The conversation explores the importance of self-discovery, mentorship, and staying true to oneself while building a meaningful career. Kam's perspective provides valuable advice for young professionals on setting goals, embracing curiosity, and creating impact in their chosen fields, highlighting that career success is a deeply personal and evolving path.

Pathways to Success, Ep. 11: Terria McDonald, Jefferson County Personnel Board

In this "Pathways to Success" episode, host Amber Carroll explores the inspiring career journey of Terria McDonald, Recruiting Manager at the Jefferson County Personnel Board. From her early aspirations of becoming a physician to finding her true calling in human resources, Ms. McDonald shares candid insights into building a meaningful career. She discusses the importance of critical thinking, professionalism, and personal growth, offering valuable advice for students and young professionals navigating their career paths. Ms. McDonald's story is a testament to the power of resilience, continuous learning, and staying true to one's passions, while emphasizing that success is a unique journey for everyone. Her wisdom spans topics from networking and internships to overcoming challenges and maintaining faith in uncertain times.

Pathways to Success, Ep. 10: Crystal Smitherman, Birmingham City Councilor for District 6

In this short but impactful Pathways to Success episode, host Jamaal Wilson sits down for a quick chat with Crystal Smitherman, Birmingham City Council member, to explore the dynamic journey of a young political leader breaking barriers in local government. From initially resisting politics to representing District Six with passion and purpose, Councilor Smitherman shares her inspiring story of overcoming ageism, advocating for community issues like food insecurity, and bringing fresh perspectives to public service. A product of a family deeply rooted in public leadership, she offers candid insights into navigating political challenges, the importance of youth engagement, and how determination can transform personal aspirations into meaningful community impact.

Pathways to Success, Ep. 9: Dawn McCormack, Samford University

In this Pathways to Success episode, host Amber Carroll sits down with Dr. Dawn McCormack, Dean of the Howard College of Arts and Sciences at Samford University, to uncover the remarkable journey of an Egyptologist turned academic leader. From her humble beginnings in central Texas to leading one of Samford's largest colleges, Dr. McCormack shares her inspiring story of overcoming self-doubt, embracing opportunities, and finding fulfillment through supporting others. A former competitive gymnast with an Ivy League education, Dr. McCormack offers profound insights into personal growth, the transformative power of education, and the importance of courage in pursuing one's path. Her candid discussion reveals how resilience, family support, and a commitment to helping others can turn personal challenges into extraordinary professional achievements.

Pathways to Success, Ep. 8: Alex Dumais, United Ability

In this Pathways to Success episode, Cristo Rey Creates student Jamaal Wilson interviews Alex Dumais, Higher Education Coordinator at United Ability, exploring the transformative world of disability services and nonprofit work. Inspired by his grandfather's life and personal experiences, Alex shares his journey from a knee injury to finding his passion in serving people with disabilities. Drawing from his background in therapeutic recreation and extensive volunteer work, he offers high school students invaluable insights into career development, the importance of hands-on experience, and the power of resilience. Alex discusses United Ability's diverse programs, volunteering opportunities, and the critical role of empathy and open-mindedness in professional growth.

Pathways to Success, Ep. 7: Victoria Eligwe & Iris Olive, Avadian Credit Union

In this Pathways to Success episode, host Jamaal Wilson sits down with Victoria Eligwe, Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Avadian Credit Union, and Iris Olive, Assistant Vice President of Records, to explore unconventional career paths in banking. Victoria and Iris share their inspiring journeys of professional growth, emphasizing the importance of tenacity, continuous learning, and embracing opportunities. From community engagement to records management, they reveal the diverse roles within financial institutions that students might not typically consider. Their candid discussion highlights the power of determination, the value of humility, and how personal resilience can transform unexpected career challenges into remarkable success stories.

Pathways to Success, Ep. 6: Jacquese Smith, Children's of Alabama

In this Pathways to Success episode, CRC student Amber Carroll (Class of 2027) interviews Ms. Jacquese Smith, the Laboratory Education Coordinator at Children's of Alabama. Ms. Smith shares her inspiring journey into healthcare leadership, from her biology studies at Tuskegee to her progression through roles at St. Vincent's East and Children's Hospital. Listeners will gain insights into Ms. Smith's passion for serving her community, her efforts to enhance training and foster collaboration, and her excitement about innovations in pediatric care. This episode offers valuable career advice, highlighting the importance of flexibility, a willingness to learn, and developing foundational skills - lessons that exemplify how following one's passion can lead to a fulfilling healthcare career.

Pathways to Success, Ep. 5: Elizabeth Baker, UAB Department of Sociology

In this episode of the Pathways to Success series, CRC student Jamaal Wilson interviews Dr. Elizabeth Baker, Associate Professor of Sociology at UAB. Dr. Baker shares her unconventional career journey, from dropping out of high school to becoming a college professor, and discusses how perseverance and a passion for learning shaped her path. She offers insights into her research on childhood obesity and health disparities, the value of soft skills like small talk, and practical advice for students preparing for college. This episode highlights the importance of resilience, adaptability, and embracing new opportunities.