From helping entrepreneurs get their first idea off the ground to supporting major employers expanding in the region, WGU graduate Brian Fleming spends his days focused on one mission: building communities where people want to live, work, and start businesses. As executive director of the Sherburne County Economic Development Authority (Minnesota), Brian works behind the scenes to strengthen local economies by connecting founders and companies with the resources, partnerships, and incentives they need to grow.

In this episode, Brian shares practical insights for entrepreneurs everywhere—from tapping Small Business Development Centers and SCORE mentors to identifying real opportunities by solving pressing problems. With an MBA and a master’s in cybersecurity from WGU, he also explains why protecting digital trust is now essential for every business. His perspective blends strategy, community connection, and practical action, offering a simple reminder: strong local economies are built when people invest their time, talent, and ideas where they live.

To learn more about the WGU Alumni experience, including events, benefits, and ways to stay engaged, visit wgu.edu/alumni.

On this episode of the WGU Alumni Podcast, we share how distinguished graduate Hope Kiehl identified a critical gap in life skills education and turned it into a statewide movement. A first-generation graduate and family and consumer sciences educator, Hope transformed that realization into action—modernizing life skills education through hands-on instruction, digital tools, and classroom experiences that make budgeting, nutrition, time management, and healthy decision-making tangible and relevant.

Her work has grown beyond the classroom. Through her initiative, Leading a Lifetime of Life Skills, Hope has built a statewide program across New Jersey that partners with nonprofits and youth organizations to deliver practical workshops tailored to real needs. She has also leveraged her platform as Miss Central Jersey Coastline to expand that impact, advocating for independence, leadership, and service at scale. Her journey is a reminder that it’s never too late to invest in yourself—and to make a meaningful difference in the lives and communities around you.

Connect with Hope here: https://kiehlhope.wixsite.com/leading-a-lifetime-o

After decades in consulting, Rob Berg didn’t slow down—he doubled down. From sacrificing meals to buy books in his early years to earning his master’s at WGU later in life, Rob’s career has been fueled by curiosity, courage, and a belief that growth doesn’t expire at 50.

In this episode, Rob shares why technology never transforms organizations—people do. We explore his human-first approach to AI, what separates failed pilots from lasting adoption, and how intelligent organizations embed tools into real work instead of chasing trends. From authorship to advisory work, Rob reflects on originality, ownership of time, and why the most valuable consultants build something no one else can replicate. If you’re considering your next evolution—or wondering if it’s too late—Rob’s story is a reminder that the call to grow only gets clearer with age.