Tune In: Embry-Riddle Launches Official Podcasts

Embry‑Riddle is taking storytelling to new heights with the launch of two official podcast series — The Riddle Report and The Eagle Heritage Project. Both shine a spotlight on the people, stories and milestones that define the world’s leading aviation and aerospace university.

Hosted by Dr. Ronnie Mack and Bill Thompson, the series invites listeners to hear directly from faculty, students and alumni who are shaping the future of flight — and honoring the legacy that brought us here.

Whether you’re a student, future Eagle, industry professional or proud alumnus, these conversations offer fresh insight into the innovation, leadership and legacy that make Embry‑Riddle soar.

Catch up on the latest episodes below!

The Riddle Report

Episode 1: Dr. Bryan Watson

In the debut episode, host Dr. Ronnie Mack chats with Dr. Bryan Watson, assistant professor of Systems Engineering, about his journey into academia and his work in the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science. The conversation also dives into exciting updates from across the Eagle community — offering listeners a firsthand look at what’s next at Embry‑Riddle.

Episode 2: Ander Turueno Garcia

Student leadership takes center stage as Ander Turueno Garcia, president of the Student Government Association at the Daytona Beach Campus, joins us to discuss his experiences guiding fellow students, his academic path and his ambitions in corporate aviation. This episode offers inspiration for any listener interested in turning campus involvement into professional success.

Episode 3: Faith Lee

Aerospace Engineering student Faith Lee shares how campus leadership has shaped her Embry‑Riddle experience — from guiding visitors as a tour leader to serving on the Orientation Team (O-Team). She also reflects on the co-op and internship opportunities that have fueled her academic and professional growth.

Episode 4: Dr. Amber Paul

Host Dr. Ronnie Mack speaks with Dr. Amber Paul, assistant professor in the Department of Human Factors and Behavioral Neurobiology. Together, they explore cutting-edge research on human biology in extreme environments, highlight standout students and discuss the innovation happening inside Embry‑Riddle’s labs.

Episode 5: Connor Runkle

Aeronautics student Connor Runkle offers an inside look at his Air Force ROTC journey and his mission to enhance mental wellness within the ROTC community. He and Dr. Ronnie Mack discuss purpose-driven leadership, community-building and the impact of bringing a new wellness-focused initiative to Embry‑Riddle’s Daytona Beach Campus.

Episode 6: Dr. Mike Wiggins

Often described as a “renaissance man” of the skies, Dr. Mike Wiggins reflects on his journey from Aeronautical Science student in 1973 to becoming a defining figure in Embry‑Riddle’s history. With more than 4,200 hours of flight time and over 3,200 hours of flight instruction, he shares how his passion for aviation shaped his path from student to influential campus leader.

The Eagle Heritage Project

Episode 1: Dr. Jenny Harding (Part 1)

In the first installment, Dr. Jenny Harding joins host Bill Thompson to explore the origins of Embry‑Riddle and its involvement in the British Flight Training School, a defining partnership that began in 1941 and helped shape the course of aviation history.

Episode 2: Dr. Jenny Harding (Part 2)

Continuing their deep dive into Embry‑Riddle’s past, Harding and Thompson trace the legacy of John Paul Riddle — the visionary founder whose passion for flight laid the groundwork for the global university we know today.

Episode 3: Jeffrey Reis

In this inspiring conversation, Jeffrey (Jeff) Reis, an Embry‑Riddle alumnus and Navy veteran, reflects on his journey from student to CEO. His story spans continents and careers — highlighting the leadership, resilience and global perspective that define Embry‑Riddle graduates.

Episode 4: Charles Williams

Host Bill Thompson talks with Embry‑Riddle alumnus and longtime TSA professional Charles Williams, whose 23 years of service shaped a career rooted in leadership and public safety. Williams reflects on giving back to the Eagle community, his transition from TSA to Embry‑Riddle faculty and the experiences that continue to guide his work today.

Episode 5: Coach Steve Ridder

Embry‑Riddle Basketball Coach Steve Ridder shares his remarkable journey from modest beginnings — including living in dorms and coaching on outdoor courts — to building a 36-year legacy and nearly 800 career wins. This episode offers an inspiring look at perseverance, purpose and the culture he’s cultivated on and off the court.

Episode 6: Marie Rohlfs

In this heartfelt conversation, Bill Thompson sits down with Marie Rohlfs, a beloved Embry‑Riddle staff member who has supported Air Force ROTC Det. 157 for nearly four decades. She reflects on her many roles, the generations of cadets she has guided and what it has meant to serve as a “mom away from home” to so many Eagles.

Ready to listen?

Explore the latest episodes of The Riddle Report and The Eagle Heritage Project on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube — and join the conversation celebrating Embry‑Riddle’s past, present and future.