New UMGC Podcast Launches with "Unstoppable" Story of Actor, Army Veteran, and Alumna Caitlin Bassett

The series delves into the inspiring narratives of individuals who have pursued their educational dreams while balancing families, careers, health challenges, military service and more.

Adelphi, MD (01/08/2025) — Everyone has a story and launching today, University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) will debut Unstoppable Stories, a podcast spotlighting the remarkable journeys of its students, graduates and faculty.

The series delves into the inspiring narratives of individuals who have pursued their educational dreams while balancing families, careers, health challenges, military service and more - you know, life.

"Our students, graduates and faculty are our best storytellers," said UMGC President Gregory W. Fowler. "With Unstoppable Stories, we aim to take listeners on journeys of perseverance, triumph and transformation. I am confident these narratives will inspire our current students and prospective learners to achieve their goals and make a lasting impact in their communities and professions."

The podcast's debut episode features Caitlin Bassett, a UMGC graduate, Army veteran and actor. Bassett details the compelling story of how she enlisted in the military at 18, served in Afghanistan and transitioned to a successful acting career, including a role in the television series Quantum Leap. Influenced by her family's military legacy, Bassett sought a fresh start and a sense of purpose.

"I grew up on my dad's military stories," she says. "He taught me that there's honor in service and in being part of something bigger than yourself."

Like many UMGC graduates, Bassett's journey wasn't a straight line. After two years of law school, she decided to take a leap of faith and pursue acting, despite the fear of failure.

"I realized I was more afraid of living a life filled with regret," she says in the podcast episode. She also credits UMGC with helping her feel connected and understood. "At UMGC, I met people like me-people who hadn't taken a traditional path. I felt much less alone in my choices."

The podcast will feature guests from all walks of life-from entrepreneurs and educators to artists and athletes-who share their personal journeys and the lessons they learned along the way. Whether you're seeking motivation, guidance or simply a good story, Unstoppable Stories offers insights to fuel your passion and ignite your potential.

The show is co-hosted by Lauren Cardillo and Nathan James. Cardillo is an Emmy Award-winning UMGC senior video producer with a rich career in entertainment, and James is an advanced military and veteran education coordinator at UMGC. Together, they guide listeners through conversations that are certain to engage listeners.

New episodes of Unstoppable Stories will post twice a month and available on Spotify and soon Apple Podcast. To watch an episode on YouTube, go to YouTube.com/UMGC.