On this episode of As Spiders Do, Lauren Oblak, '06 traces her journey from Richmond student to higher-ed professional, marketer, and founder of Veri Cheri. She shares how becoming a mom and turning 40 inspired her to build a community-centered brand that helps girls ages 8–14 develop self-worth, confidence, and self-expression through playful, meaningful experiences.

Editing by Maggie Johnson Apostolov, '18, Associate Director, Regional & Young Grad Engagement. Episode music by FASSounds from Pixabay.

Nominate someone to be on our show by emailing alumni@richmond.edu.

On this episode of As Spiders Do, Amaya Jones, Assistant Director of Alumni Networks, speaks with Diana McKenney, '16 (née Reighart), who shares how campus helped shape their understanding of gender, identity, and community. Diana reflects on discovering they were non-binary, advocating for gender-inclusive housing, and what it means to live proudly and authentically every day. Their story is a powerful reminder that self-acceptance and community care can create lasting change.

Editing by Amaya Jones, Assistant Director, Alumni Networks and Maggie Johnson Apostolov, '18, Associate Director, Regional & Young Grad Engagement. Episode music by FASSounds from Pixabay.

Nominate someone to be on our show by emailing alumni@richmond.edu.

On this episode of As Spiders Do, Vincent Olivieri, '98 shares how a Richmond education shaped a lifelong creative path from math major to sound designer and composer. He reflects on the unexpected lessons that stuck with him, the role of empathy and “the next right thing” in a nonlinear career, and how U of R’s curiosity-driven community helped launch a life of making, teaching, and exploring new ideas.

Editing by Maggie Johnson, '18, Associate Director, Regional & Young Grad Engagement. Episode music by FASSounds from Pixabay.

Nominate someone to be on our show by emailing alumni@richmond.edu.