As Spiders Do

On this episode of As Spiders Do , Lauren Oblak, '06 traces her journey from Richmond student to higher-ed professional, marketer, and founder of Veri Cheri . She shares how becoming a mom and turning 40 inspired her to build a community-centered brand that helps girls ages 8–14 develop self-worth, confidence, and self-expression through playful, meaningful experiences. Editing by Maggie Johns...

On this episode of As Spiders Do , Amaya Jones, Assistant Director of Alumni Networks, speaks with Diana McKenney, '16 (née Reighart), who shares how campus helped shape their understanding of gender, identity, and community. Diana reflects on discovering they were non-binary, advocating for gender-inclusive housing, and what it means to live proudly and authentically every day. Their story is...

On this episode of As Spiders Do , Vincent Olivieri, '98 shares how a Richmond education shaped a lifelong creative path from math major to sound designer and composer. He reflects on the unexpected lessons that stuck with him, the role of empathy and “the next right thing” in a nonlinear career, and how U of R’s curiosity-driven community helped launch a life of making, teaching, and explorin...

On this episode of As Spiders Do , Amaya Jones, Assistant Director of Alumni Networks, speaks with Greg Morley, R'88 about his journey from University of Richmond to a 25-year international career, and how curiosity, optimism, and lived experience shaped his work in human resources, inclusion, and belonging. He also shares how those lessons led him to write about resilience, identity, and the...

On this episode of As Spiders Do, Mike Gray, '06 and Andrew Ryan, '06, reflect on how their friendship grew from campus volunteer work into a long-running professional partnership built on trust, service, and shared values. They also share how their college experience shaped their careers and how their new podcast, The Midlife Guys , uses humor and honesty to explore the challenges and rew...

On this episode of As Spiders Do, Christine Keeley, W'85 discusses how her path from economics and corporate healthcare into photography, brand strategy, and storytelling was anything but linear. She shares how family, community, and collaboration shaped her journey, and how she now blends creativity and technology to help brands tell more meaningful stories. Editing by Stephanie Moki, '26...

On this episode of As Spiders Do, Matt Scoletti, '06 explores how his University of Richmond experience shaped his growth, from finding community on campus to learning the power of asking for help. He also shares the life-changing moments that pushed him toward sobriety, endurance racing, and a purpose-driven life centered on helping others challenge themselves and reach their full potential....

Reunion Weekend is a favorite alumni tradition. But did you know that students are integral to making the weekend happen? In this episode, Clayvon Grimes, ’25 share about his experience as a Reunion Student Ambassador (RSA). Get an inside look at Reunion Weekend as Clayvon discusses the responsibilities, memorable moments, and the unique activities that make the RSA program a cornerstone of Reunio...

In this episode of As Spiders Do, join Amaya Jones, Assistant Director of Alumni Networks as she discusses the power of community with Jocelyn Blizzard, ’05. Jocelyn’s journey, which spans politics, philanthropy, and higher education, reveals how strategic partnership and unwavering advocacy can transform isolated efforts into powerful, lifelong connections. Jocelyn’s story is a masterclass in adv...

Valentine’s Day is here, and this special episode of As Spiders Do shines a spotlight on two couples who have been together since their time at the University of Richmond. Tune in to hear these Spider couples' stories of college beginnings, deep connections, and how their love has grown over the years. Whether you're single, taken, or simply a hopeless romantic, come celebrate enduring lov...

On this episode of As Spiders Do , tune into our interview with Krystle Voss, C'13 as she discusses her journey of founding Resolution Winery . Hear how she transformed a pandemic hobby into a successful business by navigating complex regulations, building a supportive community, and trusting practical next steps. Discover her insights on overcoming challenges, scaling with confidence, and tur...

Billy Howland, R'82, P'22, has always had a passion for barbecue that began with Richmond's Pig Roast tradition. What started as a family legacy has now blossomed into a thriving local brand: Billy's Slapp'n Sauce. In this episode, we dive into Billy’s journey and explore the entrepreneurial shift he made in mid-life. Joined by his daughter Morgan Howland, '22, we uncover h...

Join us as we catch up with past guests of As Spiders Do, where they share the latest chapters of their lives. From career milestones and personal growth to unexpected twists and new passions, these podcast alumni reveal how their journeys have evolved since we last spoke. Tune in to hear how the story continues - because at UR, the connections never end and our webs keep growing. Editing by Maggi...

Join Nina Rogers and Adam Hake, both Class of 2011, as they reflect on their unexpected journeys from college to their current roles at Foster Made . Discover how their shared experiences and friendships have shaped their careers and personal lives, and explore the importance of curiosity and exploration in their professional paths. Tune in for an engaging discussion on the value of relationships,...

In this episode, we shine a spotlight on Spider alumni who’ve turned bold ideas into thriving businesses. Rich Mitchell, '95 and Claude Diggs, '03 share the stories behind their brands, the challenges they’ve faced, and the lessons they’ve learned along the way. Tune in for an inspiring look at the entrepreneurial spirit that continues to shape the Spider community. Check out Rich Mitchell...

In this episode of As Spiders Do , join SiwantaThapa, '23 as he shares his journey from Nepal to the University of Richmond and Columbia University. Discover how Siwanta navigated cultural transitions, embraced his identity, and found community and mentorship in unexpected places. From excellence to personal growth, this episode explores the balance between planning and discovery, and the impo...

In this episode of As Spiders Do , we’re catching up with some of our recent graduates — alumni who are just a few years out of Richmond, navigating life after college and making their mark in the world. From launching careers to pursuing further education, and discovering new passions along the way, they’ll share their honest reflections, challenges, and triumphs since leaving campus. Editing by...

This episode of As Spiders Do explores the unique journey of Sam Widdoes, '08, who balances a career in law with his work as a film producer. His diverse background led to the creation of As We Speak , an award-nominated documentary that was inspired by UR professor, Erik Nielson's work as an expert witness in trials where rap artists' lyrics are used as evidence. Together, we discuss...

UR doesn’t run itself—it takes a dedicated team working behind the scenes to keep everything running smoothly. In today’s episode, we’re shining a light on some of the unsung heroes who make this university feel a little bit more like home. Managing the day-to-day operations isn't easy, but our guests do it with grace and efficiency. Music by  Wahyuddin  and sound effects from  Pixabay . This...

Being a Richmond Spider means "we live excellence while never forgetting others." Wise words from this month's interviewee, Imani Esparza-Pitman, '09! Tune in to hear Imani's story, from growing up in Richmond, to traveling the world, to becoming a local entrepreneur! Check out Imani's company, I Kale Life: https://www.ikalelife.com/ Editing by Maggie Johnson, '18, Asso...

Ever wondered who's behind Richmond's storytelling efforts? Or who puts on the amazing performances in Modlin? Or who makes some of the amazing campus events happen? On today's episode, hear from Spider alums working to make all the great Richmond events and stories happen. Each brings a unique perspective on the work that keeps UR vibrant and connected—from crafting the university’s p...

June is a popular month to say “I Do,” and we’re joining the celebration with our latest episode of As Spiders Do. We sit down with Bryce Carson, ’13, event planner extraordinaire and the owner of Brocade Bridal in Richmond to talk about how he stitched together his career path with heart, hustle, and a touch of tulle. Check out Bryce's wedding salon, Brocade: https://brocadebridal.com/ Editin...

In this episode of As Spiders Do , we explore how alumni are shaping the future of UR through the Office of Advancement. From fundraising to building lasting partnerships, these dedicated graduates are giving back in big ways. Learn about how Advancement provides opportunities for students, faculty, and staff and help those go off and lead lives of purpose. Learn more about opportunities to give b...

Today, on As Spiders Do , we cover the incredible journey of Dr. Frank Gupton, a leader in pharmaceutical engineering. His work proves that innovation and dedication can change the world. Learn about the power of medicine and Dr. Gupton's inspiring words to push boundaries and never give up. Editing by Maggie Johnson, '18, Associate Director of Regional & Young Grad Engagement. Episode...

On this episode of As Spiders Do , we interview Kim Bach, '97 and Josh Roenitz, '97 as they share their journeys of Spiders to co-founders of their company DailyHuman. Hear about their missions of serving both young and professional athletes and their dedication to optimizing performance and well-being. We learn about the importance of mindset and explore what it means to have resilience a...