Fresh off a return from NASA with UT San Antonio students who won a national competition, Dr. Chris Packham joins us for a powerful update on the groundbreaking work happening at the intersection of research, innovation, and student opportunity. From collaborations with Blue Origin to leadership roles connected to the James Webb Space Telescope and the development of the Habitable Worlds Observatory, Dr. Packham shares how UT San Antonio is contributing to the next generation of space exploration.

We also dive into his role as Chair of the Japanese Society for the Promotion of Science Alumni Association, the global research pipeline he’s helping build for UT San Antonio students — including opportunities in Japan — and his leadership as Chair of the Gemini Observatory Board. Closer to home, he discusses returning to teach Astronomy 101 and what he calls a “new era” of teaching and learning in the classroom.

This episode is about more than telescopes and research — it’s about UT San Anotnio students competing and winning on a national stage, global partnerships expanding opportunity, and Roadrunners helping shape humanity’s understanding of the universe.

Tune in, subscribe, and share this episode with a fellow Roadrunner. Birds Up.

Show Notes:
UT San Antonio Alumni
Diploma Dash 5k
UTSA Athletics
Dr. Chris Packham
UT San Antonio researcher aims to save an endangered crocodile in Southeast Asia
UT San Antonio to launch nation’s first open-access neuromorphic computing hub

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UTSA Baseball season is officially here—and this episode sets the tone. In our annual UTSA Baseball Preview, Birds Up teams up once again with Alamo Audible for a deep dive into what’s next for one of the hottest programs in college baseball.

We’re joined by UTSA Baseball alum, fan favorite, and newly drafted pro James Taussig, who reflects on UTSA’s historic run, the culture that fueled it, and what it truly means to sustain success at the national level. From clubhouse leadership and player development to preparing for the grind of the next level, James offers firsthand insight into the standard being built at UTSA—and why this program is no longer sneaking up on anyone.

Alamo Audible’s Dan Nerdahl joins the conversation to break down the upcoming season, roster continuity, and what fans should be watching for as the Roadrunners look to defend expectations and keep momentum rolling.

This episode is also packed with special guests, including former UT San Antonio Alumni Association President Jacob Cavasos, who shares the alumni and fan perspective, the growing national profile of UTSA Baseball, and why Roadrunner support matters now more than ever.

From the Bird Bath to the big picture, this episode is about legacy, momentum, and what comes next. If you’re ready for baseball season, ready to talk Roadrunner culture, and ready to meet us at the Bird Bath—this one’s for you. Birds Up! Play Ball!

Show Notes:
Institute of Texan Cultures Reopens
UTSA Athletics
UTSA Baseball
Diploma Dash 5k
UT San Antonio Alumni
Alamo Audible

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This powerful episode features David Spencer, a mission-driven entrepreneur, investor, and philanthropist whose career bridges a military upbringing, engineering, and life-saving medical innovation.

While David is a graduate of UT Austin, his passion for higher education is deeply connected to UT San Antonio. Together with his wife Jennifer, David has become one of UTSA’s most influential supporters, with a shared vision that the university experience should be vibrant, engaging, and memorable—not just a place students attend, but a community where they thrive. Their support spans UTSA Athletics, student life initiatives, leadership, and mentorship programs like Empowered Connections, which pairs women UTSA student-athletes with mentors to support their growth on and off the field.

David also reflects on how his military background and engineering education led him to work with the US Air Force at Kelly Air Force Base, and later to launch his first company after the base closed. He credits the UTSA Small Business Development Center as a key resource in learning how to start and scale a business. After successfully selling his first company, David was appointed by Governor Rick Perry to help guide state funding for startups across Texas—expanding his impact on innovation and economic development statewide.

Today, David serves as President and CEO of Prytime Medical Devices, where his team develops trauma-care technology designed to slow internal bleeding and buy critical time for patients in life-or-death situations. Initially developed for military use, this technology is also being utilized for civilian trauma care, saving lives far beyond the battlefield.

This episode is a compelling look at purpose-driven leadership, the power of mentorship, and how investing in people, education, and innovation can create lasting impact for UTSA, San Antonio, and communities around the world.

Listen now, share with your Birds Up crew, and let us know your favorite takeaway. If this episode inspired you, leave a review and help us spread the Roadrunner spirit. Birds Up!

Show Notes:
UT San Antonio Alumni
UT San Antonio Alumni 2026 Diploma Dash
Five UT San Antonio Projects On the Horizon For 2026
UT Health Receives $10 million Grant For Cancer Research
Empowered Connections for UTSA Female Student Athletes
UTSA Athletics
UT San Antonio Alumni Online Store

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We’re halfway through Season 5 and have enjoyed getting to know Roadrunners representing UT San Antonio across a wide range of industries. Along the way, we heard from Alumni Association President Laura Beth Garcia, a graduate of both UTSA and UT Health San Antonio, as she began her term during the historic formation of UT San Antonio. We also explored unique career paths and perspectives from CPS Energy’s Jonathan Tijerina, local attorney and community leader Rob Killen, and Josh Gerken, who offered insight into the growth, maintenance, and expansion of University facilities. The season also featured stories of humble beginnings from local women’s boxer Amanda “Supernova” Sendejo and radio personality Dan “Lunchbox” Chappell.

The first half of the season brought plenty of insights and laughs, along with major moments for UTSA Athletics, including another exciting football season and upcoming bowl game, a soccer conference championship, and growing anticipation for the spring sports slate. We also celebrated new statues unveiled on campus, significant academic and research recognition, a successful Be Bold campaign, generous philanthropic support, and the addition of more than 3,000 new Roadrunners to the alumni family. We’re looking ahead to an exciting 2026, including the milestone of Episode 100!

Show Notes:
UT SAN ANTONIO Alumni
UT San Antonio Alumni 2026 Diploma Dash
UT San Antonio 2025 Fall Commencement
UT San Antonio receives $30 Million Gift
UT San Antonio receives $7 Million Gift Commitment
UTSA Athletics
UTSA Football 2025 Bowl Game
UT SAN ANTONIO Alumni Online Store

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After growing up in Austin, TX, Dan found a home at UT San Antonio following encouragement from his parents, who wanted him to experience college life and new opportunities. Still unsure of what direction he wanted to take professionally, he leaned into his naturally outgoing personality, getting involved on campus and discovering a talent for connecting with people. That openness eventually led to an unexpected radio audition that would change the trajectory of his life.

With no formal broadcast background, Dan nonetheless made a memorable impression on Bobby Bones, standing out for his raw energy and unfiltered approach. What began as part-time stunt work quickly evolved into a full-time role behind the mic, where he helped shape the show’s dynamic as it expanded into a nationally syndicated program.

Along the way, Dan has shared his personal milestones—marriage, fatherhood, and the many chaotic, heartfelt, and humorous moments in between—inviting listeners into his world and strengthening the bond fans feel with the show. In this episode, Dan reflects on his journey, from a directionless college kid to a defining voice in modern country radio, and the twists, risks, and lucky breaks that made it possible.

Show Notes:
UT SAN ANTONIO Alumni
Fall 2025 Commencement Information
New Dramatic Arts Degree
The Bobby Bones Show
The Sore Losers Podcast
UTSA Football
UTSA Baseball 2026 Schedule
UTSA Athletics
UT SAN ANTONIO Alumni Online Store

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In this episode, Josh Gerken, who leads Asset Management at UT San Antonio, shares how the university strategically manages its physical growth to align with long-term academic and institutional priorities. As part of the university's Facilities, Real Estate, Construction & Planning team, Josh oversees space planning and sustainability initiatives.

A proud graduate of UT San Antonio's Executive MBA program, Josh brings a wealth of real-world experience and a deep connection to the Roadrunner community. His perspective enhances the UT San Antonio's approach to planning and development with operational efficiency in addition to leveraging the talents of its own students, offering hands-on learning that contributes directly to the university’s continued growth. He also shares insights into the university's role in San Antonio’s downtown development, illustrating how thoughtful, sustainable asset management can strengthen both the campus and the surrounding community now and for the future.

Tune in as Josh discusses the bold vision guiding UT San Antonio's next chapter of growth and how strategic investments today are shaping a smarter, more connected campus. He offers a behind-the-scenes look at how the university is reimagining its physical spaces to inspire learning, sustainability, and economic growth. This conversation offers a forward-looking glimpse into how UT San Antonio is building not just for today, but for generations to come.

Show Notes:
UT SAN ANTONIO Alumni
District Planning Report
Blanco Hall
First Gen Fest
Student Success Award Finalist
UTSA Football
UTSA Athletics
UT SAN ANTONIO Alumni Online Store

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From Floresville, Texas to the national boxing stage, Amanda “Supernova” Sendejo’s journey is one of grit, grace, and Roadrunner pride. A two-time national champion and proud UTSA alumna, Amanda shares how watching her older brothers train first sparked her love for the sport — and how she laced up her own gloves at 17 to carve her own path.

Her small-town beginnings instilled discipline and determination, values that carried her to two national titles and now an undefeated professional career. As the first in her family to graduate college, Amanda is also proving that success extends beyond the ring. With her B.B.A. in Marketing from UTSA, she’s merging her business acumen with her athletic drive — building her brand with the same passion she brings to every fight.

In this episode, Amanda opens up about the mental and physical resilience it takes to compete at the highest level, how faith grounds her through the grind, and how she’s using her platform to inspire the next generation. From her work with the San Antonio Spurs and San Antonio FC to mentoring youth through her gym’s nonprofit, Amanda embodies what it means to lead with heart — both inside and outside the ring.

Tune in as we go beyond the gloves with Amanda “Supernova” Sendejo — a true champion, changemaker, and proud Roadrunner blazing new trails for women in boxing.

Show Notes:
UT SAN ANTONIO Alumni
Amanda Sendejo ABF Title Fight
Non Profit: PTB Youth Assistance
Carlos Alvarez Statue Unveiling
Alvarez College of Business named to Princeton Review's Top School List
UTSA Football
UTSA Athletics
UT SAN ANTONIO Alumni Online Store

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From student government president at UTSA to one of San Antonio’s leading voices in land use and economic development, attorney Rob Killen has dedicated his career to building both community and opportunity. In this episode, Rob reflects on how his Roadrunner experience prepared him for leadership in law, business, and civic service. As Chairman of the Metro SA Chamber and longtime advocate for smart growth, he shares unique insights into the policies shaping San Antonio’s future—and why alumni engagement is key to driving positive change.

Tune in to hear how Rob’s journey from UTSA to the boardroom is helping shape the future of our city.

Show Notes:
UT SAN ANTONIO Alumni
Opening doors to digital literacy and language: Education lab partners with San Antonio school district
AI and health: UT San Antonio to host symposium advancing the next wave of life-saving technologies
UTSA Football
UTSA Athletics
UT SAN ANTONIO Alumni Online Store

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