Only Here welcomes former Mattel, Inc. Chief Brand Officer Lisa McKnight or a conversation on leading the “Barbie Renaissance” and transforming one of the world’s most iconic brands. McKnight and Chancellor Daniel Pullin explore values-driven leadership, balancing heritage with bold reinvention and what it takes to steward brands that shape culture and commerce. During her visit to TCU as a Green Honors Chair in the Bob Schieffer College of Communication, McKnight also discusses mentoring the next generation of storytellers and why authentic leadership is paramount.

Only Here welcomes TCU Vice Provost for Enrollment Management Heath Einstein to the pod to talk what student-centered growth looks like, why TCU is uniquely positioned to grow despite current headwinds, what being a values and vibes school really means and how TCU for Texans is making this incredible education available to the best and brightest in the state. As Einstein and Chancellor Daniel Pullin noted, helping Texans afford a TCU education has long been a part of the university’s DNA, and you need look no further than Nike CEO Elliott Hill to see what becomes possible with programs like this.

Only Here welcomes Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker to the pod to talk about the relationship between the university and city, how both find themselves at the juncture of growth and opportunity, the financial and community aspects of big-time athletics in Fort Worth, the importance of green spaces, the intersection of experiential learning opportunities for Horned Frogs and solving real-world problems for the community, and a not-so-little TV show called “Landman”.

"Only Here" welcomes TCU Director of Intercollegiate Athletics Mike Buddie to the pod to talk why TCU, the changing landscape of college athletics, why he thinks selling TCU as a four-year destination is still a win, big Ws since his arrival and what college athletics can learn from the N.Y. Yankees.

Only Here welcomes Horned Frogs Head Football Coach Sonny Dykes to the pod to talk about his quarterback and Heisman hopeful Josh Hoover choosing to forgo the portal, what that says about TCU, the upcoming season, College Football Playoff formats, and what it’s like hailing from Texas football royalty.

Texas Christian University’s inaugural Office of University Strategy and Innovation began with the arrival of Chief University Strategy & Innovation Officer Tom Wavering in thesummer of 2024. The office was established to foster TCU’s forward-thinking strategies and culture of innovation and ensure TCU remains competitive in a rapidly changing educational landscape.

Listen in as Wavering discusses the new LEAD ON: Values in Action strategic plan, plans for greater collaboration across the TCU community and shares his dreams for TCU.

This episode was recorded in February 2025.

In this episode of TCU Innovates, Bill Nunez, Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administration, and Chancellor Pullin explore how bold vision and strategic resource management—from campus master planning and the Lead On: Values in Action strategic plan to community partnerships—propel the university forward.

“And sometimes we look at resources as money, but it’s not just money; it’s people, it’s our environment, it’s our built environment, it’s our land,” says Nunez. “The strategic plan is an incredible example of TCU being bold and looking into the future.”

This episode was recorded in February 2025.

President Daniel Pullin interviews Dr. Floyd Wormley, Jr., Texas Christian University’s Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, discussing his TCU journey, leadership vision and commitment to academic excellence.

Dr. Wormley reflects on the university’s new LEAD ON: Values in Action strategic plan and the transformative role of research in shaping future leaders.

“One reason I love working with undergraduate students is that they come so excited and curious. They ask great questions that have never been thought of before,” says Wormley. “Years later, when they have their own research labs and send me pictures of their families, I see the impact we’ve had. It’s the best job on earth.”

The podcast conversation highlights TCU’s values-driven leadership, interdisciplinary collaboration and equipping students with hands-on experiences that extend beyond the classroom.

“Being involved in research or scholarship and creative activity allows students to live out what we teach them in the classroom. It shows employers that they are prepared on day one for whatever they want to do,” Wormley continues.