Not 4 Credit

About Not 4 Credit

Join us each week on Not 4 Credit as we hear from the extraordinary professors that teach advertising, public relations, social media, media production, journalism, sports media, sport management, and game design at High Point University's Nido R. Qubein School of Communication. Hosted by Heather Vaughn and John Mims, each episode dives into the personal and professional journeys of the people you see in the halls, classrooms, and boardrooms. Thoughtful, candid, and occasionally surprising, Not 4 Credit is where the real stories happen—the ones you won’t find in a syllabus.

Publisher

Not 4 Credit

Category

education

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

24 Jan 2026

Latest episode

21 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

14 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   21 Oct 2026

   Episode 13: Chasing Stories at 200 MPH with Noah Lewis, Instructor of Journalism and Sport Media

   What does it take to break into NASCAR journalism at just 17 years old? For Noah Lewis, it took persistence, passion, and a willingness to take “no” as a challenge. In this episode of Not 4 Credit, Heather Vaughn and John Mims sit down with Noah, a 2023 High Point University graduate who is now an instructor of multimedia journalism and sport media at his alma mater. Noah shares how a childhood trip to a NASCAR race sparked his career, how he convinced racetracks to credential him while he was still in high school, and what it's like covering some of the biggest names in sports, including Michael Jordan. He also takes us behind the scenes of a NASCAR confrontation that generated millions of social media views. But Noah's story isn't just about racing. He discusses building his own media brand, the mentors who helped shape his career, and why he chose to return to HPU as an educator. From the newsroom to the classroom, Noah explains how he's combining two lifelong passions while helping prepare the next generation of journalists. It's a conversation about determination, relationships, and finding a way to turn what you love into what you do.

2. 

   14 Oct 2026

   Episode 12: From Failure to Fulbright with Professor Alan Buck, Professor of the Practice of Journalism and Sports Media

   What do you get when you combine a college dropout, a veteran television journalist, a Fulbright Scholar, and a surfing enthusiast? You get Professor Alan Buck! In this episode of Not4Credit, John and Heather sit down with Alan Buck, Professor of the Practice in Journalism and Sports Media at High Point University. Alan shares his unconventional journey from flunking out of college to working his way up through the television news industry, eventually returning to school and discovering his passion for teaching. Along the way, Alan recounts some unforgettable experiences from his broadcasting career, including covering a hurricane in Charleston, reflects on how artificial intelligence is changing the news business, and shares how his Fulbright experience in Eswatini transformed his perspective on education. And there's more to Alan than journalism! From taking up surfing in his 50s to launching his own pie business, Palmetto Pies, Alan proves it's never too late to try something new. It's a conversation about second chances, taking risks, and finding your passion in unexpected places. Learn more about Palmetto Pies: PalmettoPies.com (https://palmettopies.com/)

3. 

   7 Oct 2026

   Episode 11: Dr. Sarah Vaala, Associate Dean of the Nido R. Qubein School of Communication

   Dr. Sarah Vaala has built a career around curiosity—about how people learn, how media shapes us, and why a cartoon penguin might make a bowl of cereal taste better. In this episode of Not 4 Credit, John and Heather sit down with Sarah, Associate Dean of the Nido R. Qubein School of Communication, to talk about the unexpected path that took her from studying child development to earning her Ph.D., conducting research at Sesame Workshop, and ultimately finding her home in higher education. She shares what she learned studying children and digital media—including why all those interactive bells and whistles in an e-book might actually get in the way of the story—and how her research continues to shape the way she thinks about media literacy and parenting. Sarah also brings along two unusual keepsakes: boxes of “Healthy Bits” and “Sugar Bits” cereal from one of the first experiments she designed in graduate school. The study explored how characters on food packaging influence children's perceptions, and the boxes have followed her throughout her career as reminders of the excitement of discovering research for the first time. But there’s another side of Sarah that her colleagues know well: she’s a prankster. From secretly replacing a colleague’s film-club schedule with an entire lineup of Olsen twins movies to an ongoing dachshund-themed surprise, Sarah explains why the best pranks are really just “surprises that bring joy.” It’s a conversation about curiosity, teaching, research, media literacy, finding the career you didn’t know you wanted—and the occasional strategically placed prank.

4. 

   30 Sept 2026

   Episode 10: Professor Ken Medlin, Chair of Journalism and Sports Media

   A law school waitlist helped set Ken Medlin on the path to a career in sports broadcasting—and eventually the classroom. To kick off Season 2 of Not 4 Credit, John Mims and Dr. Heather Vaughn welcome Professor Medlin, Chair of Journalism and Sports Media at High Point University, for a conversation about unexpected opportunities and always being ready. From a memorable encounter with ESPN’s Stuart Scott to behind-the-scenes challenges of live television, Ken shares stories and lessons from his broadcasting career. He also discusses bringing students into the action of NCAA tournament coverage, teaching through international travel, and why a Calvin and Hobbes poster has a special place in his office.

5. 

   28 Apr 2026

   Episode 9: HPU Head Men's Basketball Coach Flynn Clayman and HPU Women's Assistant Basketball Coach Katie Clayman

   In this season finale of Not For Credit, we’re bringing you a true “twofer” with High Point University basketball power couple Flynn and Katie Clayman. From the electric moment of HPU’s first-ever NCAA Tournament win to the quieter, deeply personal moments that define their journey, this episode blends high-stakes competition with heartfelt reflection. Flynn and Katie take us courtside during that historic win—sharing what it felt like as coaches, as competitors, and as a family experiencing a dream realized in real time. From Katie’s emotional reaction holding their son Quinn to Flynn reliving the chaos and clarity of a game-winning moment, it’s a behind-the-scenes look at a milestone that meant more than just a win. But this episode isn’t just about basketball. The Claymans rewind to their own origin story—meeting in a small athletic department in Utah, building careers side-by-side, and eventually making their way to High Point. Their dynamic as both spouses and coaches offers a unique lens into balancing ambition, competition, and partnership, all while raising a growing family (with baby #2 on the way). Of course, the conversation also dives into the evolving world of college athletics. Flynn and Katie provide an insider perspective on NIL, the transfer portal, and what it really means to coach in what they call a “professionalized” college sports environment. It’s thoughtful, honest, and refreshingly grounded in both experience and perspective. As the episode winds down, the Claymans share what’s next—on the court, at home, and in a season of life that’s about to get even busier. And in true Not For Credit fashion, their show-and-tell items—a championship ring and a “wedding basketball”—perfectly capture the blend of legacy and love that defines their story. It’s the perfect way to close out the season: meaningful, fun, and full of moments you won’t want to miss. And yes… keep listening for those hidden song lyrics . 👀

6. 

   21 Apr 2026

   Episode 8: Dr. Jenny Lukow, Associate Professor of Sport Management

   In this episode of Not For Credit, we sit down with Dr. Jennifer “Jenny” Lukow, Associate Professor of Sport Management, to explore a career shaped by resilience, passion, and a lifelong love of sports. Jenny shares the remarkable story of how Hurricane Katrina unexpectedly redirected her path—from teaching in New Orleans to finding a long-term home at High Point University. Her firsthand account of evacuation, uncertainty, and rebuilding offers a powerful look at how moments of crisis can redefine both personal and professional trajectories. Along the way, she tells the unforgettable story of adopting a stray cat in the aftermath of the storm—proof that even in chaos, meaningful connections can emerge. We also dive into her deep-rooted passion for sports, from childhood days spent at Orioles games to her unwavering loyalty to Baltimore teams. That passion fuels her work in the classroom, where she helps students understand the business side of sports—the people, strategy, and operations behind every game-day experience. Jenny reflects on building the sport management program at HPU from the ground up, transforming it from a one-person operation into a thriving, student-driven program with hundreds of majors and alumni working across the sports industry. From NIL opportunities to careers that don’t even exist yet, she highlights the ever-evolving nature of sport—and why the possibilities for students are truly endless. It’s a conversation about adaptability, mentorship, and finding your lane—plus a few hidden song lyrics if you’re paying close attention.

7. 

   14 Apr 2026

   Episode 7: Dr. Kristina Bell, Associate Professor of Game Design

   In this episode of Not for Credit, we visit with Dr. Kristina Bell, Associate Professor of Game Design at High Point University, for a fun and insightful conversation about games, creativity, and the evolving role of interactive media. Dr. Bell shares her unique journey—from a childhood filled with video games (including a hilarious journal entry defending Nintendo as a full-time activity) to studying film, working in sound editing, and ultimately finding her way back to games through the rise of indie game development. Along the way, she offers a compelling perspective on why games are such a powerful medium—one where players and designers co-create meaningful experiences. We also dive into her teaching, including courses like Games and Identity, where students tackle real-world issues such as accessibility, representation, and social challenges through game design. Dr. Bell highlights how games can foster problem-solving, storytelling, and even empathy in ways other media can’t. Of course, it wouldn’t be Not for Credit without a peek into the personal side. From her love of narrative-driven games like The Stanley Parable to her background as a punk rocker in high school and multi-instrumentalist, Dr. Bell brings a creative and unexpected energy to everything she does. Whether you’re a gamer, a creative, or just curious about how games shape the way we think and connect, this episode will definitely change the way you see the world of game design.

8. 

   7 Apr 2026

   Episode 6: Harvest Bellante, Assistant Professor of Media Production

   In this episode of Not For Credit, we sit down with Professor Harvest Bellante, a screenwriting and media production expert whose journey spans California, Virginia, and now High Point University. Harvest shares how her background in both filmmaking and life-skills education shaped her path into academia—and why storytelling remains at the heart of everything she teaches. The conversation dives into her passion for screenwriting, the art of choosing films that actually resonate with students, and her strong opinions on what makes a movie truly great (and which classics might be a little overrated). From The Godfather to hidden gems like Brooklyn and Sunrise: A Story of Two Humans, Harvest offers a masterclass in film appreciation—along with a few must-watch recommendations you may have missed. We also get a glimpse into her personality through a fun “show and tell” featuring a dachshund-inspired twist on a classic movie moment, plus stories about her own award-winning screenplays and experiences navigating film festivals. Along the way, she reflects on the creative process, the role of ego in artistry, and how emerging technologies like AI are challenging—and reshaping—the future of storytelling. Keep your ears open as Harvest drops a few subtle song lyrics throughout the episode, and see if you can catch them. It’s a thoughtful, funny, and insightful conversation about creativity, teaching, and finding your voice—on screen and beyond.

9. 

   31 Mar 2026

   Episode 5: Mary Kay Campbell, Professor of the Practice of Strategic Communication

   In this episode, we sit down with Professor Mary Kay “MK” Campbell for a powerful and deeply personal conversation about resilience, purpose, and finding your path—no matter the obstacles. Through meaningful objects like a willow tree angel symbolizing courage and a self-painted phoenix rising from the ashes, MK shares how her life experiences have shaped both who she is and how she teaches. MK opens up about a life-altering car accident that resulted in a traumatic brain injury, walking us through the vivid, unforgettable moments of the crash and the long road to recovery that followed. Rather than letting the experience define her limits, she used it as fuel—rewiring her brain, embracing inspirational speaking, and ultimately rediscovering her passion for teaching. Before entering academia, MK built an impressive career in healthcare marketing and communications, bringing real-world insight (and some unbelievable crisis communication stories) into the classroom. From high-stakes media moments to lessons learned in the C-suite, she now channels those experiences into hands-on, applied learning for her students. Along the way, we also learn about her love for cheerleading, her connection to the octopus as a symbol of cognitive strength, and her unwavering belief that everyone has the ability to rise above adversity and reach their full potential. This episode is equal parts inspiring, eye-opening, and unforgettable—and don’t forget to listen closely for the hidden song lyric woven throughout the conversation.

10. 

    24 Mar 2026

    Episode 4: Dr. Dean Smith, Assistant Professor of Journalism

    In this episode of Not for Credit, we sit down with Assistant Professor of Journalism Dean Smith—yes, that Dean Smith (well… not exactly). After clearing up the name confusion, we dive into a career that spans music, journalism, law, and nearly two decades in the classroom. Dean shares how growing up between a journalist mother and a music-loving father led him from studying music performance to a 20-year run in print journalism, where he covered everything from classical music to unforgettable moments like a weekend with Luciano Pavarotti. From there, he takes us inside his transition to academia, where he’s built a dynamic approach to teaching media law and First Amendment history—less lecture, more “rehearsal.” We also get real about the evolving demands of higher ed, the challenge of teaching at scale, and why the stories behind landmark legal cases still matter today. Along the way, Dean brings his signature mix of seriousness and curiosity—symbolized by a judge’s gavel on one hand and an ostrich egg on the other. It’s a conversation about storytelling, free expression, and the responsibility of helping the next generation find their voice—with plenty of great stories along the way.

11. 

    17 Mar 2026

    Episode 3: Dr. Stefan Hall, Chair of the Game Design Department

    In Episode 3 of Not 4 Credit, Mims and Heather talk to Dr. Stefan Hall, chair of the Game Design program at High Point University, for a conversation that explores the creativity, storytelling, and culture behind games. Dr. Hall takes us inside the world of tabletop role-playing games—especially Dungeons & Dragons—and explains how games that began as war simulations evolved into collaborative storytelling experiences built on imagination, strategy, and character development. Along the way, he shares how being introduced to D&D in a gifted program as a kid helped spark a lifelong passion that eventually led him into game design, research, and teaching. As part of the show-and-tell tradition of the podcast, Dr. Hall brings a meaningful artifact from his collection: a well-used D20 die that represents countless gaming sessions and the creativity at the heart of the gaming community. The conversation also touches on the evolution of the gaming industry, the resurgence of tabletop games in popular culture, and the many ways gaming connects storytelling, marketing, and community. This episode also introduces a fun twist for listeners—an Easter egg hidden within the conversation. If you catch the clue, keep an eye on our social channels to see if you guessed it correctly. Whether you’re a longtime gamer or just curious about how games shape creativity and collaboration, this episode offers a fascinating look at the people and ideas behind the rapidly growing world of game design.

12. 

    10 Mar 2026

    Episode 2: Dr. Bobby Hayes, Chair of Journalism and Sports Media

    In Episode 2 of Not 4 Credit, we sit down with Dr. Bobby Hayes, chair of the Department of Journalism and Sports Media at High Point University. Before leading one of the university’s most popular programs, Dr. Hayes spent years in the trenches as a sports journalist, covering everything from high school athletics to the NFL. The conversation begins with a special show-and-tell item—a print of the famous 16th hole at Augusta National—representing one of the most unforgettable moments of his career: covering the 1986 Masters when Jack Nicklaus made his legendary comeback to win a sixth green jacket. From the electricity of Augusta to the chaos of sideline reporting, Dr. Hayes shares stories from his time covering the New Orleans Saints, meeting childhood sports heroes, and witnessing some truly bizarre moments in sports reporting. Along the way, he reflects on the lessons that shaped him as a journalist—from learning the responsibility that comes with writing about young athletes to understanding the power of storytelling in sports. The episode also explores his unexpected transition from the newsroom to the classroom and how he helped build High Point University’s sports media program into one of the school’s fastest-growing areas. It’s a conversation about memorable moments, career pivots, and the craft of telling great sports stories.

13. 

    3 Mar 2026

    Episode 1: Dr. Nahed Eltantawy, Dean of the Nido R. Qubein School of Communication

    We’re kicking off Not 4 Credit with a conversation that sets the tone for everything this podcast is about—real stories, unexpected paths, and the people who shape our School of Communication. In our first episode, we sit down with Dean Nahed Eltantawy for a candid, wide-ranging conversation that begins with a simple show-and-tell and unfolds into a global journey. From growing up in Cairo and attending Catholic school, to getting caught in a dangerous university protest will working as a reporter, to helping build a journalism program from the ground up at High Point University, her story is anything but predictable. Along the way, we talk about leadership, faith, resilience, career pivots, and what it really takes to guide a growing, innovative school. It’s thoughtful, personal, and the perfect way to launch a podcast dedicated to the people behind the work.

14. 

    24 Jan 2026

    Trailer

    It's coming! Get ready for Not 4 Credit the podcast that does a deep dive into the lives of the faculty at High Point University's Nido R. Qubein School of Communication.

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Apple Podcasts (US)

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