Unstoppable Stories
Unstoppable Stories
Podcast Description
Welcome to UMGC’s "Unstoppable Stories," a podcast that showcases extraordinary journeys of individuals who turned their dreams into reality. Join hosts Lauren Cardillo and Nathan James as they sit down with inspiring people who have broken barriers, defied expectations, and achieved remarkable success in their fields.In each episode, Lauren and Nathan dive deep into the real, unvarnished stories behind their guests' accomplishments. From military veterans turned entrepreneurs to working parents who became industry leaders, these inspiring individuals share the obstacles they overcame and the pivotal moments that shaped their paths to success. They offer compelling insights for anyone looking to transform their own life and achieve their dreams."Unstoppable Stories" goes beyond the highlight reel to explore the grit, determination, and resilience it takes to achieve your goals. Whether you're a student, career changer, or simply someone seeking inspiration, these powerful narratives prove that with dedication and perseverance, there's no limit to what you can achieve.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast centers around themes of resilience, personal growth, and overcoming obstacles, with episodes that share diverse stories from guests ranging from military veterans to working parents. Examples include Lynnette Lamp's journey from a young mom to Maryland's Mom of the Year and Kevin Finkelstein's transition from theater enthusiast to an educator, showcasing the transformative power of education and the human experience.

Welcome to UMGC’s "Unstoppable Stories," a podcast that showcases extraordinary journeys of individuals who turned their dreams into reality. Join hosts Lauren Cardillo and Nathan James as they sit down with inspiring people who have broken barriers, defied expectations, and achieved remarkable success in their fields.
In each episode, Lauren and Nathan dive deep into the real, unvarnished stories behind their guests' accomplishments. From military veterans turned entrepreneurs to working parents who became industry leaders, these inspiring individuals share the obstacles they overcame and the pivotal moments that shaped their paths to success. They offer compelling insights for anyone looking to transform their own life and achieve their dreams.
"Unstoppable Stories" goes beyond the highlight reel to explore the grit, determination, and resilience it takes to achieve your goals. Whether you're a student, career changer, or simply someone seeking inspiration, these powerful narratives prove that with dedication and perseverance, there's no limit to what you can achieve.
In this powerful episode of Unstoppable Stories, host Lauren Cardillo sits down with Zachry Flores; military veteran, UMGC alumnus, and current UMGC professor. Zach shares the raw realities of serving as a military police officer, both stateside and overseas, and opens up about his journey before, during, and after his time in uniform.
From childhood dreams of police work to unexpected deployments, Zach’s path was anything but predictable. Even after sustaining a brain injury in the line of duty, he pushed forward earning a bachelor’s in criminal justice, a minor in business, and an MBA from UMGC, where he now teaches. His passion for the military runs deep, and he’s devoted his life to supporting those who serve in mind, body, and spirit.
Tune in for an honest, inspiring look at what it really means to serve, and to keep showing up, no matter what.
Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments! To learn more about UMGC, visit:UMGC.edu/unstoppable
Connect with Zachry on LinkedIn! https://www.linkedin.com/in/zachry-flores-mba-23b1b5ab/
Host: Lauren Cardillo
Guest: Zachry Flores (Military Veteran, UMGC Alumnus, UMGC Professor)
Time Stamps & Show Notes:
(00:00 – 00:47) Intro
(00:48 – 02:24) Zach’s Beginnings
(02:25 – 05:12) Military Life
(05:13 – 07:36) Iraq and Afghanistan
(07:37 – 12:51) A Memorable Day in the Life
(12:52 – 14:29) The People Being Taught
(14:30 – 18:09) Zach’s Brain Injury
(18:10 – 20:36) The After Care
(20:37 – 22:03) Daily Challenges
(22:04 – 23:23) Coping Mechanisms
(23:24 – 27:00) The College Journey
(27:01 – 30:11) Day to Day
(30:12 – 33:46) The Student in Me
(33:47 – 34:27) In the Office
(34:28 – 35:45) Graduation
(35:46 – 38:49) The Defining Feature
(38:50 – 39:38) What’s the future?
(39:39 – 40:17) Closing

Disclaimer
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