Podcast
MSU Denver Alumni BirdTalk
Hosted by MSU Denver Alumni · EN
An MSU Denver Podcast about Alumni Careers and Lives hosted by Jamie Hurst ‘21.
Bird Talk is a fascinating glimpse into the lives and careers of the university's accomplished alumni. Each episode features an in-depth interview with an alum who shares their unique journey and insights on how their time at MSU Denver shaped their success. From entrepreneurs to educators, artists to scientists, Bird Talk offers a diverse range of perspectives and experiences, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in the impact of higher education.
16episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Emmy Jacobson, '00
Oct 700:54:44Tap to summarizeFasten your seatbelts—this episode of Bird Talk is cleared for takeoff! Host Jamie Hurst chats with Emmy Jacobson (‘00), a lifelong aviator, community powerhouse, and MSU Denver’s 2025 Volunteer of the Year. From flying at 16 to leading at an Airbus company, Emmy’s journey proves that Roadrunners don’t just take flight—they soar.This episode was originally recorded on August 15th, 2025.
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Andrew Dole '06 & '13
Sep 1701:06:45Tap to summarizeFrom chef to dietitian to NFL performance expert, Dr. Andrew Dole’s career is anything but ordinary. Hear how this two-time MSU Denver alum went from cooking for athletes to fueling the Arizona Cardinals—and why lifelong learning has been his ultimate playbook.
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Anita Kudasik '19
Aug 5, 202500:54:11Tap to summarizeIn this special live episode of Bird Talk, host Jamie Hurst sits down with Anita Kudasik, a 2019 MSU Denver alumna and award-winning hotelier in Salida, Colorado. Anita shares her journey from growing up in her family’s motel to revitalizing the American Classic Inn while still completing her degree. With warmth and humor, she reflects on the power of community, the value of hands-on education, and her bold leap into entrepreneurship. This episode is a celebration of grit, growth, and going all in on your dreams.
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Roy Alexander '74
Jul 21, 202500:53:39Tap to summarizeJamie sits down with Roy Alexander, a seasoned accountant and financial expert whose passion for affordable housing has shaped his career. From his childhood in the Caribbean to his journey to MSU Denver and beyond, Roy shares how key mentors and life experiences helped him chart a purposeful and impactful path.
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Zander Keig '99
Jun 5, 202501:21:47Tap to summarizeJamie talks with award-winning social worker Zander Keig. From his early life navigating identity and service in the Coast Guard to his trailblazing work in caregiving and LGBTQ advocacy, Zander shares a powerful story of resilience, reinvention, and radical empathy.
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Megan Kelly '21
Aug 1, 2023Tap to summarizeJamie & Megan squawk about the entertainment industry, being well-rounded, and the non-linear path.
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