The University of Mary Washington is inviting listeners into conversations happening across campus through its new podcast, What Matters Most With President Paino. The production offers a behind-the-scenes look at the people, ideas and voices that shape life at the University with episodes blending reflection with personal moments.
UMW President Troy Paino serves as host, conversing with guests about everything from what drives their curiosity and fuels their sense of purpose to their thoughts about campus life, favorite local hangouts and future plans. Since débuting in October, What Matters Most has released monthly episodes, each recorded in the school’s own podcast studio in the Digital Knowledge Center and highlighting a different facet of the university experience.
“We’re always looking for ways to share the exciting things our students, faculty, staff and alumni are doing,” Paino said. “With so many people now getting news and entertainment from podcasts, this medium lets us communicate the power of a Mary Washington education in a new way.”
The inaugural episode featured student leaders Amira Said ’26 and Adam McAninley ’27, who discussed internships, role models, sustainability and what truly matters most to them as Mary Washington students. The production also includes students working behind the scenes.
Senior communication and digital studies major Matthew Clinton supports the production by editing and producing episodes. It’s a role that utilizes skills he’s honed during two years as a video production intern in the Office of University Communications and through relevant coursework.
“The podcast allows us to showcase the depth of talent and passion in our community,” said Assistant Director of Marketing Sam Cahill, the podcast’s project manager. “Each episode reveals distinct perspectives that make Mary Washington special.”
In the second episode, the spotlight turned to Professor of Communication and Digital Studies Anand Rao, who directs UMW’s Center for AI and the Liberal Arts, for a conversation on artificial intelligence education, ethical AI adoption and preparing students for an increasingly AI-driven future.
Episode three featured seniors Jay Hooker, Sophie Hubbard and Kalani Moore, co-presidents of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee. They discussed balancing academics, athletics and campus involvement while representing the voices of their fellow NCAA Division III student-athletes.
Released this week, episode four features alumnus Gregg Stull, professor of theatre and director of the arts at Mary Washington. Stull reflects on nearly five decades of connection to the University, from his experiences as a first-year theatre student to his role as an influential educator and leader.
And, coming soon, Eagles men’s basketball captains — Jay Randall ’27 and Kye Robinson ’28 — will talk about their experience as student-athletes and their current historic season, which has had the team ranked as high as number two in national polls.
Future episodes will continue to showcase the voices of students, faculty, staff and alumni, offering listeners a deeper look at the research, creative pursuits, career milestones and real, everyday moments that define the UMW community.
What Matters Most With President Paino is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, YouTube and YouTube Music. New episodes are released monthly.
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