From battling childhood asthma to summiting the highest peaks in the world, Luis Benitez has never followed a traditional path—and he doesn’t think you should either.

While on campus for CSU's Outfitting Tomorrow Summit, Luis Benitez joined President Amy Parsons on this episode of The Next 150 podcast. Luis is a globally renowned adventurer, the first director of the Office of the Outdoor Recreation Industry here in Colorado, and the current vice president of global government affairs for Lululemon. They discuss his winding journey from a kid on the swim team to leading expeditions on every continent, advocating for public lands, and shaping national policy around outdoor recreation. Luis opens up about his career, purpose-driven branding, and the bipartisan power of getting outside.

Plus, hear his advice for students here at CSU who are finding their voice and forging their own unconventional paths.

Tuberculosis is one of the oldest and deadliest diseases, but it’s not just history. On this episode of The Next 150, President Amy Parsons sits down with CSU’s own Dr. Karen Dobos and Dr. Marcela Henao-Tamayo, co-directors of the Mycobacteria Research Laboratories, to talk about the future of infectious disease research and the role CSU is playing in shaping disease prevention. Hear how their paths—from wildlife biology and medical school in Colombia—led them to Fort Collins and the ways in which students can get involved to help make an impact on public health. From a recent TB outbreak in Kansas City to World TB Day outreach with local high schools, this episode dives into CSU’s reputation as a global powerhouse in TB research.

Plus, learn how AI could unlock the next big breakthroughs in preventing infectious disease and why President Parsons was gifted a signed book by best-selling author John Green.

The Associated Students of Colorado State University (ASCSU) President Nick DeSalvo and Vice President Braxton Dietz sit down with President Parsons to talk about their journeys to CSU and their experiences in student government. From tackling major policy issues like U+2 to balancing student life with big responsibilities, Nick and Braxton share what it’s really like to advocate for their fellow Rams. Plus, hear their plans for the future, surprising celebrity encounters, and their advice for the next generation of leaders and CSU students.