On this episode of the WGU Alumni Podcast, we sit down with WGU alum Derrick M. Johnson II, a business strategist, experience designer, and longtime leader in the meetings and events industry. Derrick shares how earning his master's degree in Management and Leadership from WGU helped him evolve from executing projects to thinking more strategically about leadership, purpose, and outcomes. He also reflects on navigating the disruption of the events industry during the pandemic and how asking better questions helped him embrace change and create new opportunities.

Throughout the conversation, Derrick shares his perspective on leadership, adaptability, and the importance of understanding the "why" behind what we do. He also discusses his new book, Before the Agents: Staying Human in the Age of Intelligent Machines, a personal story of reinvention and a practical exploration of AI, creativity, and human value. It's an insightful conversation about lifelong learning, embracing change, and building momentum through continued growth, adaptability, and a willingness to challenge yourself.

Explore Derrick's Book: Before the Agents

For those considering a career transition, Derrick encourages readers to start with the problems they can help organizations solve and identify the experiences that demonstrate their value. It's a practical way to tell a more compelling career story, especially when pursuing opportunities that look different from previous roles.

Learn more: https://dmvdjdj.com/beforetheagents

To learn more about the WGU Alumni experience, including events, benefits, and ways to stay connected, visit wgu.edu/alumni.

On this episode of the WGU Alumni Podcast, we sit down with two-time WGU graduate Laura Wing, an author, business coach, workplace communication expert, and entrepreneur who decided to return to school at age 59. Laura shares what prompted that decision, why WGU was the right fit, and how she went on to earn both a bachelor’s degree in UX Design and a master’s degree in Management and Leadership by age 60.

As we kick off Season 3 and our theme of Momentum, Laura shares what happened after earning those degrees and how she immediately began putting what she learned into practice. From applying UX principles to her businesses to gaining new confidence and leadership skills, Laura reflects on how education created new possibilities at an already accomplished stage of her career. She also shares lessons from writing 11 books, why she believes a book can be a powerful career and networking tool, and her advice for anyone ready to turn an idea into something real. It’s a conversation about lifelong learning, betting on yourself, and creating momentum at any stage of life.

To learn more about the WGU Alumni experience, including events, benefits, and ways to stay connected, visit wgu.edu/alumni.

On this episode of the WGU Alumni Podcast, we sit down with WGU alum Thomas Graham II, whose career spans two seemingly different worlds. By day, Thomas is a Senior Clinical Account Director at Elevance Health, helping organizations improve healthcare outcomes. Outside of work, he has developed a passion for magic, using it as a creative way to teach life skills through the 8 True Traits Foundation.

Throughout the conversation, Thomas shares how curiosity, communication, resilience, respect, and leadership have shaped both his professional career and his passion for inspiring others. He reflects on the role WGU played in his journey, why lifelong learning continues to matter, and how creating moments of wonder can leave a lasting impact in the workplace, the classroom, and everyday life. It's a fun, insightful conversation about leadership, personal growth, and finding extraordinary lessons in unexpected places.

To learn more about the WGU Alumni experience, including events, benefits, and ways to stay connected, visit wgu.edu/alumni.