Join Elon University President Connie Book as she sits down with leadership expert and author Joyel Crawford ’97 for a conversation packed with wisdom, humor and inspiration. From navigating careers with confidence to finding purpose in leadership, this episode of Elon Beyond the Bricks is one you won’t want to miss.

Join President Connie Book as she chats with Wyn Ferrel ’09, the entrepreneur, distiller, and creative force behind Mile High Spirits. From a finance career in New York to launching one of Denver’s most recognizable craft distilleries, Wyn shares how he’s built a business rooted in community, creativity, and bold reinvention.

In this episode, journalist, author and former Fulbright recipient Natalie Lampert '11 joins Elon University President Connie Book for an inspiring conversation about carving your own career path and saying yes to your dreams when the opportunity arises.

Join us for an engaging discussion with Ryan Vet '13, an entrepreneur, USA Today bestselling author, and international speaker. He has advised Fortune 500 companies and mentored entrepreneurs on leadership, generational dynamics and personal branding. Hear what Ryan has to say about these topics and more! 

Join President Connie Book and Professor Alexis Franzese as they discuss the science of happiness, authenticity, and how to build a life of meaning and purpose - including lessons learned from Disney! Dr. Alexis Franzese serves as associate professor of sociology and chair of the Department of Sociology and Anthropology at Elon University. Her most recent publication is a volume she co-edited with Dr. Jill Peterfeso of Guilford College called, "Why the Magic Matters: Discovering Disney as a Laboratory for Learning." It is set for release in August 2025.   

Join President Connie Book as she sits down with the incredible Zora Stephenson '15—trailblazing sports broadcaster and storyteller. From the NBA sidelines to the Olympics and beyond, Zora shares her journey, her passions, and what it means to lead with purpose in today's media landscape.

Join the conversation as Barrett Wilbert Weed and Elon University President Connie Book discuss Barrett's journey from Elon to starring in Heathers and Mean Girls on Broadway, how she’s grown personally and professionally in the spotlight, and a sneak peek into her very own solo show. Whether you're a theatre enthusiast, an Elon fan, or someone chasing a creative dream, this episode is packed with wisdom, heart and behind-the-scenes stories.Note: This episode discusses topics related to mental health, including anxiety and depression. Please listen at your own discretion and seek support if needed.     

Listen in as host President Connie Book interviews Dave Porter P'11 P'19, chair of Elon University's Board of Trustees,  as they discuss leadership, emotional reciprocity and other life lessons. 

Join us as President Connie Book interviews Jon Seaton, a member of Elon University's Class of 2023 and former member of the football team, as he discusses his journey as a social media persona in the age of Name, Image and Likeness.