Podcasting About MCOB's PhD Program

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Posted on November 2, 2021

Lance Crawford

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The University of South Alabama Mitchell College of Business has launched a podcast, “Mitchell Moments,” an idea proposed by one of the college’s Ph.D. students.

Dr. Joe Hair, the Cleverdon chair of business and director of MCOB’s Ph.D. program, was searching for new approaches to communicate the availability and uniqueness of the program, which allows for students to continue their careers while earning their degree. 

“MCOB Ph.D. cohorts six and seven were asked to brainstorm ideas for promoting the program. Several people suggested a podcast as a possible alternative,” Hair said. “One of the students in cohort six had previous experience as a podcast host, and also in working with a podcast producer, so the Ph.D. students ran with it.” 

That student was Stacy Wellborn, and the producer was her husband Johnny Gwin. The two immediately went to work mapping out the concept. 

Podcasts have only been around for about 15 years, but have become a common way for people consume information and their entertainment.

The first “Mitchell Moments” podcast, with Wellborn as the host, was released August 24, 2021. Its target audience is potential Ph.D. students by offering advice and tips on how to choose and thrive in a Ph.D. program.

“Hosting the podcast has been a great experience. I have enjoyed spending time with faculty and students to hear their stories,” Wellborn said. “It has been inspiring, encouraging and heartwarming in so many ways – especially talking with other students and being in the dissertation phase of earning my Ph.D. degree in business and hearing how others have successfully navigated their process.”

The Business Administration Ph.D. program has three concentrations: business analytics, management and marketing. It’s designed as a three-year, non-traditional program that allows individuals to continue working while pursuing their doctorate. Students visit campus for long weekends three times during the semester, while completing remaining coursework online. It is expected that all program requirements will be completed in 36 months.

“Mitchell Moments” podcast can be found on the “Mitchell Moments” website,  or wherever you find your favorite podcasts. 

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