AU’s ‘In the Wild’ podcast launches season seven

Augusta University’s official podcast, “In the Wild” returns this fall for its seventh season, and episodes are anticipated to be wilder than ever. The new season, which premiered on Aug. 13, represents a significant milestone with elevated and innovative episode topics, guests and more. 

Hosted by Raysean Ricks, senior digital communications coordinator, “In the Wild,” has grown tremendously from a once-upon-a-time passion project to one of the longest-running branded university podcasts in the country. It now also includes video content to visually showcase the stories.  

“What’s made this podcast so special is the connection to the people who make Augusta University what it is,” Ricks said. “Seven seasons ago, university-branded podcasts weren’t even a trend. Now AU has one of the most successful ones in the country.” 

Episodes this season will explore new locations across the AU landscape, including the Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University’s Savannah Campus at Georgia Southern University, deepening the conversations by grounding listeners and viewers in the real places where AU’s stories happen. 

“We love getting out of the studio and meeting guests in their spaces,” Ricks said. “There’s something powerful about those face-to-face moments on their turf. It brings out honesty, energy and depth that’s sometimes hard to replicate in a traditional studio setting.” 

The podcast remains focused on what Ricks calls the “life changers and life savers” of Augusta University, amplifying stories of the people who often work behind the scenes but make a lasting impact. 

“We’re telling the stories that show how everything is connected – from medicine to art and from science to culture,” he said. “These disciplines aren’t siloed. They work together in a synergistic way to change lives and, in some cases, save them.” 

Ricks sees season seven as a pivotal moment in the show’s journey, comparing “In the Wild’s” milestone to the world of television. 

“In television, when a show hits seven seasons, it’s a huge accomplishment, and we’re treating it that way at the podcast,” he said. “We’re going all out. We’re talking to people we’ve never had on the show and going places we’ve never been. Season one was in a shared studio space; now we have our own, fully equipped studio.” 

Although the full guest list this season is still underway, Ricks promises a mix of new and returning voices, stories from across the university and conversations that might surprise listeners. 

One exciting guest is the first one of the new season, Augusta University First Lady Karen B. Keen. Her appearance on “In the Wild” comes on the heels of her keynote speech at Freshman Convocation and sets the tone for a season full of fresh perspectives and firsts. 

Looking ahead, Ricks said he’s as committed as ever to growing as a host and storyteller, while continuing to build a podcast that reflects the full range of experiences at Augusta University. 

“My goal is to keep evolving,” he said. “I want to keep improving how we share these stories, connect with our listeners and help people see themselves as part of something bigger. This season sets the tone for what’s next. It’s still just the beginning.” 

New episodes of “In the Wild” premiere on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and all major streaming platforms every Tuesday throughout the academic year.