Business Conversations

In this episode, we explore what’s next for how people and goods move through our cities—and what it will take to build smarter, more connected transportation systems. Joining us are Lonny Stern, Executive Director of Movability and a leading voice in transportation demand management, and Robert Spiller, a strategic advisor focused on infrastructure innovation and intelligent mobility systems. Tog...

In this episode, we explore the future of aviation with Ernest Huffman, Program Manager of Aviation Planning and Education in the North Central Texas Council of Governments. From evolving infrastructure and workforce development to emerging technologies and regional growth, Ernest shares insights into how aviation is adapting to meet the demands of a rapidly changing world. We discuss the role of...

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Jesse Robertson to explore the critical role of professional skepticism in auditing—one of the most essential, yet often misunderstood, components of the profession. Dr. Robertson breaks down what it truly means to approach audits with a questioning mindset, why skepticism goes beyond simply “trust but verify,” and how it directly impacts audit quality and eth...

What does it take to turn collaboration into a championship moment? In this episode of Business Conversations, we sit down with a powerhouse team of students from CHMT and CVAD who joined forces to compete in the NRF Student Challenge—and took home first place. Blending sharp business strategy with bold creative vision, this group proves that innovation happens at the intersection of different per...

What does it take to turn a bold idea into a winning venture? In this episode, we sit down with the student team  NeoFlux , winners of the  Breakthrough Venture Competition  hosted by the Murphy Center at the University of North Texas. Team members  Mariam Athumani, Georgia Doan, Skylar Latimore, and Diane Williams  share how their idea came to life, what it was like pitching in front of judges, a...

Thinking about studying abroad but not sure where to start? In this Part 2 episode of  Business Conversations , we sit down with  Dr. Tracy Deitz  and  Dr. Jeff Word  to break down what study abroad really looks like at the G. Brint Ryan College of Business. From the types of programs available and how faculty-led trips work to academics, safety, costs, and scholarships, this episode offers a clea...

What does national security have to do with business, infrastructure, and the future of our workforce? In this episode of  Business Conversations ,  Dr. Dave Hamilton , Faculty Director of the National Security & Economic Strategy Initiative (NSESI), and  General Lee Levy  share how UNT is shaping education, research, and partnerships around security, resilience, and economic strategy. Get a b...

What does giving back really mean—and why does it matter so much, especially this time of year? In this episode of  Business Conversations , we sit down with  Ashley Hesser , Senior Development Officer at the G. Brint Ryan College of Business, to explore the heart of philanthropy and the role advancement plays in shaping student success. Ashley breaks down what advancement is, why people choose to...

Today’s episode is all about  entrepreneurship —not just as a path to starting a business, but as a mindset that fuels innovation, leadership, and problem-solving across every discipline. We’re excited to be joined by  Jon McCarry , Executive Director of the  Murphy Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation . Jon leads the university’s efforts to support student ventures, experiential learning,...

This special episode of  Business Conversations  celebrates two extraordinary leaders whose impact on UNT spans decades. Frank and Janet Bracken—both longtime supporters, champions of student success, and inductees into the G. Brint Ryan College of Business Hall of Fame—share their remarkable journey of leadership, service, and giving. Frank reflects on his 42-year career as President and COO of H...

What  really  happens behind the scenes of scholarships, new programs, and student success at the G. Brint Ryan College of Business? In this episode of  Business Conversations ,  Roman Herrington , Executive Director of Development, pulls back the curtain on  advancement —how relationships with alumni, donors, and partners translate into life-changing opportunities for students and strategic momen...

What happens when business students turn generosity into impact? In this episode of  Business Conversations , we sit down with  Dr. Jeremy Short , Professor of Management at the G. Brint Ryan College of Business, to discuss the 5th annual  Greensgiving Campaign —a student-led initiative that blends philanthropy, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit. Dr. Short shares how this annual event has gro...

What does it really look like to turn a passion for sports into a career? In this  Business Conversations  episode,  Christopher Smith —a graduate of UNT’s  Sport Entertainment Management (SEM)  program,  President/CEO of FanWeb Technologies, LLC , and  2025 Vetrepreneur of the Year for Texas —shares how the SEM curriculum, faculty mentorship, and hands-on experiences shaped his path. Christopher...

It’s been one year since  Dr. Bob Heere  joined the G. Brint Ryan College of Business, and in that short time, the  Sport Entertainment Management  program has seen major growth and momentum. In this episode of  Business Conversations , Dr. Heere—Professor and Director of the Sport Entertainment Management program—reflects on the program’s evolution, milestones, and what’s next. From strengthening...

In a world where uncertainty is the only constant, understanding risk has never been more important. In this episode of  Business Conversations , we sit down with  Clarissa Hutkowski , Project Manager in the Department of Finance, Insurance, Real Estate and Law (FIREL), to explore the evolving landscape of risk management and insurance. Clarissa shares how the industry is adapting to emerging chal...

What does it take to help students not just succeed—but  thrive ? In this episode of  Business Conversations , we sit down with  Kristen Durr , Student Success Coordinator and Director of the EDGE Program at the G. Brint Ryan College of Business, to talk about how EDGE is transforming the student experience. The EDGE Program helps students build leadership, communication, and professional skills t...

What happens when the classroom goes global? In this episode of  Business Conversations , we sit down with  Dr. Jae Webb , Clinical Assistant Professor in the Department of Management, to talk about the transformative impact of the Study Abroad program in Germany. Joined by students who participated in the program, Dr. Webb shares what makes international learning such a powerful experience—both a...

For many students, building a professional network can feel intimidating—but it doesn’t have to be. In this episode of  Business Conversations , we sit down with  Christine Ellis , Clinical Professor of Accounting, to talk about how events like  Meet the Firms Night  open doors for students to connect with employers, practice their networking skills, and explore career paths in accounting. Christi...

Graduate school is more than the next step—it’s a chance to  level up  your skills, career opportunities, and future. In this episode of  Business Conversations , we sit down with  Erin Day  from the Graduate Programs Office at the G. Brint Ryan College of Business to explore how graduate education empowers students to achieve their goals. Erin shares insights into: Why now is the perfect time to...

What does it really mean to teach financial planning in a way that transforms students’ lives? In this episode of  Business Conversations , we sit down with  Dr. Mark Evers , Clinical Assistant Professor and Program Director of Financial Planning in the FIREL Department at the G. Brint Ryan College of Business. With more than 20 years of financial services experience and over 15 years in education...

Choosing the right classes, staying on track for graduation, and planning for the future can feel overwhelming—but you don’t have to do it alone. In this episode of  Business Conversations , we sit down with  Stephanie and Pam  from the Undergraduate Advising Office at the G. Brint Ryan College of Business to explore how advising supports students from orientation all the way to graduation. Stepha...

What if the tools you need for success in business school were right at your fingertips—no matter where you are? In this episode of  Business Conversations , we sit down with  Robert Tompkins , Server and VMware Analyst in the Business Information Technology Services (BITS) team at the G. Brint Ryan College of Business. Robert explains how  Citrix virtual desktops  make it possible for students to...

What does it really take to be career ready in today’s competitive job market? In this episode of  Business Conversations , we sit down with  Brian Hirsch , Director of the Wilson Jones Career Center at the G. Brint Ryan College of Business, to explore the resources and strategies available to help students succeed. Brian shares insights into how the Career Center supports students from their very...

Starting a new year at the G. Brint Ryan College of Business? Dean Marilyn Wiley is here to help you hit the ground running. In this special kick-off episode, she shares insider tips on navigating the RCOB, taking advantage of resources like advising and career services, and getting involved in opportunities that set you apart. Whether you’re finding your way to your first class in the BLB or maki...

The Management Department at UNT’s G. Brint Ryan College of Business is one of the largest and most dynamic on campus—home to thriving programs in Sports Entertainment Management, Entrepreneurship, and Human Resource Management. In this episode of  Business Conversations , we sit down with newly appointed Chair, Dr. Nolan Gaffney, to discuss his vision for the department’s future, the unique oppor...