As Spiders Do

Hosted by University of Richmond Alumni Relations

Episodes

Language

EN-US

About the show

What are Spiders like? Well, they’re curious, tenacious, passionate, adventurous and so much more. Of course, I’m talking about the University of Richmond Spiders! On this podcast, we'll be sharing stories with you about the amazing things that our Spider alumni do. You’ll hear directly from them about what drives them in their everyday lives and what it means to be a Richmond Spider. Remember, there are Spiders everywhere. And that’s a good thing!

Listen to episodes

48 recent

8 min

Mini Webisode: Experiencing Reunion Before Graduation

Reunion Weekend is a favorite alumni tradition. But did you know that students are integral to making the weekend happen? In this episode, Clayvon Grimes, ’25 share about his experience as a Reunion Student Ambassador (RSA). Get an inside look at Reunion Weekend as Clayvon discusses the responsibilities, memorable moments, and the unique activities that make the RSA program a cornerstone of Reunion.Learn more about Reunion Weekend at reunion.richmond.edu.Editing by Stephanie Moki, '26, Alumni Engagement Student Assistant. Episode music by FASSounds from Pixabay.Nominate someone to be on our show by emailing alumni@richmond.edu.

37 min

Moving at the Speed of Trust w/ Joycelyn Blizzard, '05

In this episode of As Spiders Do, join Amaya Jones, Assistant Director of Alumni Networks as she discusses the power of community with Jocelyn Blizzard, ’05. Jocelyn’s journey, which spans politics, philanthropy, and higher education, reveals how strategic partnership and unwavering advocacy can transform isolated efforts into powerful, lifelong connections. Jocelyn’s story is a masterclass in advocacy, adaptability, and the transformative strength of belonging.Editing by Stephanie Moki, '26, Alumni Engagement Student Assistant. Episode music by FASSounds from Pixabay.Nominate someone to be on our show by emailing alumni@richmond.edu.

23 min

Mini Webisode: Caught in yoUR Web 2026

Valentine’s Day is here, and this special episode of As Spiders Do shines a spotlight on two couples who have been together since their time at the University of Richmond. Tune in to hear these Spider couples' stories of college beginnings, deep connections, and how their love has grown over the years. Whether you're single, taken, or simply a hopeless romantic, come celebrate enduring love and lasting bonds forged at UR.Thank you to Chris Cosgrove, '11, Nicole Prunetti Cosgrove, '11, and Sarah Muller, '97 for sharing your stories!Editing by Maggie Johnson, '18, Associate Director, Regional & Young Grad Engagement. Sound Effect by freesound_community and music by FASSounds from Pixabay.

19 min

Trying Things that Scare You, w/ Krystle Voss, C'13

On this episode of As Spiders Do, tune into our interview with Krystle Voss, C'13 as she discusses her journey of founding Resolution Winery. Hear how she transformed a pandemic hobby into a successful business by navigating complex regulations, building a supportive community, and trusting practical next steps. Discover her insights on overcoming challenges, scaling with confidence, and turning passion into profit. This interview took place as part of our Curated Conversation event series.Editing by Stephanie Moki, '26, Alumni Engagement Student Assistant. Episode music by FASSounds from Pixabay.Nominate someone to be on our show by emailing alumni@richmond.edu.

19 min

Mini Webisode: The Secret Ingredient

Billy Howland, R'82, P'22, has always had a passion for barbecue that began with Richmond's Pig Roast tradition. What started as a family legacy has now blossomed into a thriving local brand: Billy's Slapp'n Sauce. In this episode, we dive into Billy’s journey and explore the entrepreneurial shift he made in mid-life. Joined by his daughter Morgan Howland, '22, we uncover how her background in journalism helped shape their brand’s marketing and product development. Together, they share some great lessons on turning a passion into a product, using secret recipes, and why community matters so much in business. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or just love good food, this conversation is packed with inspiration and practical tips to help you turn a simple passion into a successful venture.Learn more about Billy's Slapp'n Sauce here: https://www.billysslappnsauce.com/Editing by Maggie Johnson, '18, Associate Director of Regional & Young Grad Engagement. Episode music by FASSounds from Pixabay.Nominate someone to be on our show by emailing alumni@richmond.edu.

19 min

Mini Webisode: The Story Continues

Join us as we catch up with past guests of As Spiders Do, where they share the latest chapters of their lives. From career milestones and personal growth to unexpected twists and new passions, these podcast alumni reveal how their journeys have evolved since we last spoke. Tune in to hear how the story continues - because at UR, the connections never end and our webs keep growing.Editing by Maggie Johnson, '18, Associate Director of Regional & Young Grad Engagement. Episode music by FASSounds from Pixabay.Nominate someone to be on our show by emailing alumni@richmond.edu.

38 min

Cultivating Curiosity w/ Nina Rogers, '11 & Adam Hake, '11

Join Nina Rogers and Adam Hake, both Class of 2011, as they reflect on their unexpected journeys from college to their current roles at Foster Made. Discover how their shared experiences and friendships have shaped their careers and personal lives, and explore the importance of curiosity and exploration in their professional paths. Tune in for an engaging discussion on the value of relationships, the evolving tech industry, and the unique community they've built in Richmond.Editing by Stephanie Moki, '26, Alumni Engagement Student Assistant. Episode music by FASSounds from Pixabay.Nominate someone to be on our show by emailing alumni@richmond.edu.

20 min

Mini Webisode: Spider Owned Businesses

In this episode, we shine a spotlight on Spider alumni who’ve turned bold ideas into thriving businesses. Rich Mitchell, '95 and Claude Diggs, '03 share the stories behind their brands, the challenges they’ve faced, and the lessons they’ve learned along the way. Tune in for an inspiring look at the entrepreneurial spirit that continues to shape the Spider community.Check out Rich Mitchell Creative, Small Big Dog Naturals, and all of our Spider Owned Businesses!Editing by Maggie Johnson, '18, Associate Director of Regional & Young Grad Engagement. Episode music by FASSounds from Pixabay.Nominate someone to be on our show by emailing alumni@richmond.edu.

28 min

Finding Synergy in Life w/ Siwanta Thapa, '23

In this episode of As Spiders Do, join SiwantaThapa, '23 as he shares his journey from Nepal to the University of Richmond and Columbia University. Discover how Siwanta navigated cultural transitions, embraced his identity, and found community and mentorship in unexpected places. From excellence to personal growth, this episode explores the balance between planning and discovery, and the importance of authenticity and self-care. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation about finding one's place in the world and the power of diverse experiences.Editing by Stephanie Moki, '26, Alumni Engagement Student Assistant. Episode music by FASSounds from Pixabay.Nominate someone to be on our show by emailing alumni@richmond.edu.

16 min

Mini Webisode: Young Grad Voices

In this episode of As Spiders Do, we’re catching up with some of our recent graduates — alumni who are just a few years out of Richmond, navigating life after college and making their mark in the world. From launching careers to pursuing further education, and discovering new passions along the way, they’ll share their honest reflections, challenges, and triumphs since leaving campus.Editing by Maggie Johnson, '18, Associate Director of Regional & Young Grad Engagement. Episode music by FASSounds from Pixabay.Nominate someone to be on our show by emailing alumni@richmond.edu.