In this episode of The Cardinal Spotlight, we sit down with Mani Vangalur—Director of Technology Solutions at the University of Louisville’s Speed School of Engineering, a UofL alum, and an avid ultramarathon runner. Mani is deeply involved in the culture of UofL, participating in various presidential commissions including the Commission on Climate, Culture and Well-being, Staff Senate, the Cardinal Leadership Institute, and other groups that support our quality of life and development as a university and community space.
Mani shares what motivates him and how his passion for equity, innovation, and endurance feed into both his work and his running.
Tune in to hear Mani illuminate some of what teaches us about purpose, resilience, and community at the University of Louisville and beyond.
Check out the Speed School’s website here: https://engineering.louisville.edu/
Learn more about the Employee Success Center at our website: https://louisville.edu/employeesuccess
Welcome to Season 5 of The Employee Success Podcast! We’re kicking things off with a very special guest—Dr. Gerry Bradley, the 20th President of the University of Louisville—recorded just after his inauguration events.
In this exclusive conversation, President Bradley reflects on his time in the role, shares what the inauguration means to him, and outlines his vision for the future of UofL. From championing student success to investing in the growth and development of our faculty and staff, President Bradley speaks candidly about his hopes for a thriving, inclusive, and forward-thinking university community.
Stay connected with UofL employee development and learning opportunities by checking out the Employee Success Center website: louisville.edu/employeesuccess
Learn more about President Bradley here: https://louisville.edu/president/meet-president
In this episode of the Employee Success Podcast, we sit down with Gerard Rabalais, VP for HSC Professional and Educational Development at the University of Louisville, to explore how institutions can better support the development of staff and faculty—especially those approaching the later stages of their careers.
Dr. Rabalais shares practical insights on how to engage and retain late-career employees, foster purpose, and help them navigate transitions with intention and dignity.
Be sure to check out our earlier collaboration with Dr. Rabalais and Staci Saner on the Employee Success Center Podcast and Faculty Feed, where we dive deeper into the evolving definition of career success in higher education and engaging employees: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/uoflemployeesuccesscenter/episodes/Talking-about-Engaging-Employees-with-Faculty-Feed-Podcast-e25f8jo/a-a9vji2u
Listen and learn more about Faculty Feed here: https://louisville.edu/hsc/faculty-development/faculty-feed-the-podcast
Take advantage of all the career development opportunities the Employee Success Center has to offer by visiting our website: www.louisville.edu/employeesuccess
In this episode, Brian is joined by Emily Rasmussen, a member of the UofL Department of Political Science, a proud Kentuckian, and enthusiastic explorer of the Commonwealth. With a deep love for the state and a curiosity that drives her to understand its people, places, and traditions, and politics, Emily shares how she experiences Kentucky up close and how that perspective can open people to all the unique opportunities in the state. Tune in to hear about hidden KY gems and more!
The University of Louisville, rooted in the state’s largest city, helps students engage with Kentucky through experiential learning while amplifying the culture, connectedness, and energy of the Commonwealth.
Learn more about the University of Louisville’s Department of Political Science here: https://artsandsciences.louisville.edu/academics-programs/academic-departments/political-science
Check out the Employee Success Center website for learning opportunities, professional development, and more here: louisville.edu/employeesuccess
For more historical information about Louisville and the state of Kentucky explore our University Libraries Archives & Special Collections: https://library.louisville.edu/archives/home
The dedicated employees who work in our university libraries play a big role in supporting students, faculty, and staff every day. In this episode, we chat with Melissa Laning and Cecilia Durbin about how a group of those employees came together to support their own colleagues—creating thoughtful programs, practices, and resources that build a stronger sense of connection, well-being, and professional growth across the libraries.
Check out the UofL Libraries website here: https://library.louisville.edu/home
Don't miss out on the opportunities available on the Employee Success Center website: https://louisville.edu/employeesuccess
In this episode, Brian Buford sits down with Andrew Marsh—metal sculptor, founder of Lucky 7 Arts, and Assistant Director at the Conn Center for Renewable Energy Research at the University of Louisville. Andrew shares how his creative practice, deeply rooted in explorations of the human body, emotions, and the physical world, shapes both his art and his professional journey. From building monumental sculptures to driving innovation in renewable energy, Andrew offers a compelling look at the intersection of artistic expression, academic research, and global impact.
Check out more of Andrew's work on the Lucky 7 Arts website: https://www.lucky7arts.com/
Don't miss the other sites Andrew's work is featured on:
In this episode, Brian Buford welcomes back Kevin McClure, a leading voice in higher education leadership and workplace culture. Together, they dive deep into the evolving concept of employee success in the higher education workplace, exploring what it truly means to create environments where faculty and staff can thrive both personally and professionally.
Kevin shares insights from his upcoming book, The Caring University: Reimagining the Higher Education Workplace After the Great Resignation, which addresses how colleges and universities can respond to the shifting expectations of employees in a post-pandemic world. The conversation touches on concepts like institutional care, burnout, workplace flexibility, and innovative practices that support well-being and retention. Listeners will also get a sneak peek into the chapter highlighting the impactful work of the Employee Success Center, showcasing real-world examples of how institutions are prioritizing care and connection in their organizational culture!
The Caring University is available for pre-order now and will be released on July 1, 2025. Get your copy here!
Check out our past episode with Kevin here.
Visit the Employee Success Center website and take advantage of our opportunities to advance your career today!
In this episode of The Cardinal Spotlight, we sit down with Charice Patterson from the University of Louisville's Career Center to explore the power of vision boards. Charice shares how visualizing your goals can fuel motivation, clarify direction, and support both personal and professional growth. She also discusses the inspiration behind some of her favorite pieces and how you, too, can do it at home!
Tune in to learn practical tips for creating your own vision board and how it can become a meaningful tool for goal setting and development.
Check out the University Career Center website here: https://louisville.edu/career
Send a CardGRAM: https://louisville.edu/employeesuccess/recognition/send-a-cardgram
In this episode, we explore the growing importance of emotional support in the workplace—through the eyes (and paws) of two special guests!
Join us as we sit down with Officer Jacob Robinson of the University of Louisville Police Department and his four-legged partner, Comfort K-9 Lily. Together, they share how Lily is helping to create a more compassionate and supportive environment on campus. From reducing stress during high-pressure moments to simply offering a furry friend to lean on, Lily’s presence is making a big difference.
Tune in to hear stories from the field, the process of getting a comfort animal, and how Lily is helping our community...one tail wag at a time!
Follow Lily's instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/lily_ulpdk9/
Learn more about opportunities for growth and support in the workplace on our website: louisville.edu/employeesuccess
In a special turn of the mic, Laura McDaniels steps into the host’s seat to interview our usual host, Brian Buford. That’s right—Brian’s trading headphones for hiking boots as he prepares to embark on an exciting journey along the Pacific Crest Trail.
Laura and Brian dig into what inspired this trek, what Brian’s hoping to discover along the way, and how he’s preparing for over 2,600 miles of mountains, deserts, and soul-searching. It's a conversation full of laughter, vulnerability, and insight into what it means to step away from the familiar.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker, a dreamer planning your own big leap, or just curious about the next adventure of one of UofL’s most beloved people, you won’t want to miss this one.
Sign up for the PCT Wellness Challenge with the Employee Success Center and UofL’s Get Healthy Now here: https://forms.office.com/r/BgaenC5p5e
Follow along Brian’s journey on our socials, @UofLEmployeeSuccess, and on Brian’s instagram: @bumbumhikes.
Listen to our previous episode, “Leadership Lessons from the Appalachian Trail (with Maggie Schneider)” here: https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/l9w21j4uqSb
Send a CARDGram today: https://louisville.edu/employeesuccess/recognition/send-a-cardgram
In this episode of The Employee Success Podcast, we sit down with sustainability expert Dr. Justin Mog (Assistant to the Provost for Sustainability Initiatives at the University of Louisville) to explore how we can integrate eco-friendly practices into workplace culture. From reducing waste to creating a more energy-efficient office, Justin shares practical strategies that not only benefit the planet but also boost employee engagement and organizational success.
Tune in to learn how sustainability can drive innovation, improve workplace morale, and contribute to a thriving, responsible business. Don’t miss this insightful conversation on building a greener, more successful workplace!
Check out Justin Mog’s podcast Sustainability Now! on Forward Radio here: https://www.forwardradio.org/sustainabilitynow
Learn more about UofL’s efforts in sustainability and how you can help out here: https://louisville.edu/sustainability/
In this episode of The Cardinal Spotlight, we focus on the fascinating world of letterpress printing with Dr. Mark Alan Mattes, Assistant Professor of English and English Department Internship Program Director at the University of Louisville. Dr. Mattes is also the proprietor of Hot Brown Press, a letterpress print shop and bindery in Louisville, Kentucky.
Here, we take a look behind the scenes of his work in letterpress printing, teaching, internship program direction, and explore the art and craft of creating physical prints and books in an increasingly digital world. Dr. Mattes shares insights into the historical significance of the printed word, the tactile experience of books, and how letterpress printing allows for a deeper connection to textual material.
Whether you're a book lover, an art enthusiast, or curious about the intersection of history and printmaking, this episode offers a unique look at the enduring legacy of letterpress printing and its place in contemporary creative-critical work.
Check out Hot Brown Press here!
Aimee Jewel, a University of Louisville alum and Leadership Program Manager at Leadership Louisville, joins us for this episode to talk about her journey through stand-up comedy and leadership. She shares how humor plays a crucial role in connecting with others, the psychology behind why we laugh, and how we can use laughter to create a more engaging and positive work culture.
Tune in to discover how adding a bit of humor to our daily lives can make a big difference in leadership, collaboration, and overall workplace well-being!
Learn more about Leadership Louisville here: https://leadershiplouisville.org/
In this episode of The Cardinal Spotlight, our host Brian Buford sits down with Katie Jo Glesing for an intriguing conversation about her passion for the paranormal, her work in “edu-tainment,” and her fascinating Creepy Campus tours on the University of Louisville’s Belknap campus.
Katie Jo shares her deep interest in paranormal activity, offering a behind-the-scenes look at her tours, which combine eerie tales with historical insights. From spooky stories to the creative ways she engages her audience, this episode is a must-listen for anyone fascinated by the supernatural and the art of making learning fun!
The ESC’s Mallory Newby joins us to dive deep into the power of personal branding and how it can impact your career trajectory. She and Brian discuss the steps to defining your unique professional identity and how to effectively communicate it to your audience and collaborators. Mallory shares expert insights on how individuals can effectively define and communicate their unique value, offering actionable strategies for crafting a personal brand that aligns with career goals. Whether you're job hunting, networking, or looking to enhance your professional presence, this conversation is packed with valuable tips on leveraging your personal brand for success!
Learn more about our Employee Resource Groups, Coaching Circles, Career Navigation Guide, Linkedin Learning, and many more opportunities on our ESC website!
Book a session with Mallory here!
In this episode of The Cardinal Spotlight, Brian sits down with Lyshanna Cunningham, coordinator of international programs at the University of Louisville’s College of Arts & Sciences, and the creative force behind ShannaCakes, her own thriving catering business that features her amazing baked treats. Lyshanna shares how she balances her professional responsibilities with her entrepreneurial journey, turning her passion for baking into a successful business. She discusses the challenges and rewards of baking for a living, her creative process, and what it's like to manage both her career at the university and her growing business. Tune in for an insightful conversation about life, work, and the drive behind ShannaCakes.
Connect with Lyshanna and learn more about ShannaCakes here!
In this episode, Brian sits down with Meagan West, Senior Training & Development Specialist at the Employee Success Center, for an engaging conversation about extroversion in the workplace. They dive deep into how extroverted qualities such as strong communication, collaboration, and leadership can be powerful assets to teams and organizations. Meagan shares valuable insights on how to recognize and nurture these strengths, the impact of extroversion on team dynamics, and strategies for leveraging diverse personalities in the workplace. Whether you're an extrovert looking to refine your skills or a manager aiming to maximize team potential, this episode offers practical advice for thriving in a variety of work environments. Tune in to learn more about how extroversion can drive success in the workplace!
Don’t forget to check outS2E6: Introverts at Work (with Dr. Katie Partin)!
Take advantage of our Learning Opportunitieshere!
The Cardinal Spotlight shines a light on the extraordinary interests of the people at the University of Louisville. In each episode, we highlight the dedicated staff, faculty, and students whose passion, innovation, and unique contributions make UofL a vibrant, thriving community.
In this episode, we sit down with Remington Smith, a talented filmmaker and professor of Communication at the University of Louisville, to discuss his gripping new feature-length film LandLord. Remington opens up about the inspiration behind the film, shares about his creative process and challenges faced during production, as well as the unique storytelling choices that make LandLord stand out in today’s cinematic landscape.
Beyond his filmmaking, Remington also sheds light on how his work influences and contributes to the cultural fabric of the University of Louisville. As a professor, he’s not just shaping the next generation of communicators and filmmakers but also fostering a creative environment that encourages students to engage with critical social issues through media.
Be sure to check out Remington Smith’s website and follow his work as he continues to push the boundaries of storytelling in film and education. You can also find more information about LandLord and upcoming projects through the links below:
In this inspiring episode, Brian sits down with Tabitha Grier-Reed, the University of Louisville's new dean of the College of Education and Human Development, to explore her journey of "Unreasonable Optimism"—a philosophy that has guided her both personally and professionally. As she steps into her role as the college's newest dean, Dean Grier-Reed shares her vision for the future of education, the transformative power of optimism in leadership, and how embracing bold ideas can reshape the landscape of higher education.
Tune in for a candid conversation about her leadership philosophy, the challenges and triumphs of navigating a new position, and the hope she brings to the faculty, staff, and students she serves.
“Leadership is a conversation.”
In this episode, Dr. Patty Payette and Brian Buford discuss experiences with mentorship, connection, and rich guidance in the workplace that can elevate and increase the value of your professional practices.
Dr. Payette is an expert in applying critical thinking skills to everyday problems and questions. As a trainer, coach, and scholar, she consults with leaders and educators on the design, implementation, and assessment of their improvement projects and innovations, navigating tough conversations and competing interests across organizations. Dr. Payette's role at the University of Louisville hinges on structured and effective leadership implementation. Her numerous publications focus on critical thinking, skill building, and best practices in promoting change and fostering collaboration at all levels of an organization.
Listen to Dr. Payette’s podcast episode with UofL’s Center for Positive Leadership on Mindfulness and Decisiveness here!
Take advantage of Employee Success Resources through our Learning Opportunities today!