The Business of Saving Lives: Powered by an MBA

In this episode of Longwood GradCast: Beyond the Degree, host Dr. Sarah Tanner-Anderson sits down with Travis Mason (MBA’22), a former helicopter flight paramedic whose journey has taken him from the adrenaline-fueled world of emergency medicine to the strategic helm of sales leadership across the Northeast region.

Travis traces his career back to his teenage years as an ambulance paramedic, sharing vivid stories of long shifts in Richmond and how a move to Farmville became a surprising turning point. It was there that he connected with Centra Health System and Longwood’s graduate community, relationships that would go on to shape his trajectory in unexpected and transformative ways.

With a lifelong drive to become the best paramedic he could be, Travis realized his dream of serving as a helicopter flight paramedic—a role that demanded precision, quick decision-making, and unwavering commitment. He speaks candidly about how these high-stakes experiences fueled his desire to expand his impact, leading him to pursue a bachelor’s degree at Radford University Carilion and an MBA during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Balancing the rigors of academics with a demanding full-time role, Travis leaned into the discipline and critical feedback that honed his leadership style.

Now Director of Sales for the entire Northeast, Travis reflects on the transition from frontline care to executive leadership. He shares what it means to build and lead high-performing teams, emphasizing mentorship, emotional intelligence, and a solutions-first mindset over traditional sales playbooks. Drawing on lessons from the field, he’s brought patient-centered thinking into the boardroom—proving that care and commerce aren’t mutually exclusive.

The conversation also ventures into the future of the air medical field. From night vision goggles to the promise of remote-controlled aircraft, Travis offers a behind-the-scenes look at how innovation is reshaping emergency care—especially in underserved rural areas. His mission is clear: make lifesaving care more accessible, more efficient, and more compassionate.

A standout moment in the episode is Travis’s reflection on the mentorship of industry legend Rob Hamilton, whose simple yet profound advice—be curious—continues to guide Travis through complex decisions and bold career moves. That spirit of curiosity and growth underscores his belief that careers should ignite passion and align with purpose.

As the episode unfolds, Travis shares his vision for teaching future Longwood students, especially around using data for decision-making without falling into the trap of analysis paralysis. Describing his own journey in three words—fun, challenging, rewarding—Travis’s story is a testament to resilience, reinvention, and the power of staying open to what’s next.

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Creators and Guests

Host

Dr. Sarah Tanner-Anderson

Dr. Sarah Tanner-Anderson serves as Associate Dean of the College of Graduate and Professional Studies, as well as Associate Professor and Program Director of Educational Leadership. A former principal, assistant principal, middle- and high-school English teacher, department and grade-level chair, high-school coach, and club sponsor, Dr. Tanner-Anderson has spent nearly two decades serving and supporting public education in the Commonwealth. A proud Longwood Lancer, Dr. Tanner-Anderson obtained her Bachelor of Arts in English ('02) and Master of Arts in English, Education, and Writing ('07) from Longwood University. She earned her Post Master's Administrative Certification ('11) and Doctor of Education in Educational Administration and Policy Studies ('14) from The George Washington University. Her research interests include women's educational leadership, social justice in education, and literacy leadership.

Producer

Jamie Eacho

Jamie Eacho holds the title of Director of Marketing and Recruitment in the College of Graduate and Professional Studies (CGPS) at Longwood University. Starting out five years ago as the Marketing Specialist for CGPS, Jamie has grown her love for Longwood and her desire to help prospective students find the graduate program of their dreams. While her marketing journey started as the Marketing Manager for Campus Recreation at Roanoke College, and took her to Washington D.C. marketing for the Washington Nationals, and then out to the Eastern Shore of Maryland, marketing for a hospital, she has always held a special place in her heart for working with and for students. As an alumna of Roanoke College, having obtained her Bachelor’s of Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing in 2017, her passion for small Virginia schools and the value that they can add to students’ lives runs deep.

Producer

Madison Hommey

Health and Physical Education Teacher, Jefferson Forest High School (BS’21, MS’22) Health & Physical Education M.S: Maddie Hommey, an adept educator and enthusiastic athlete, currently serves as a Health and Physical Education teacher at Jefferson Forest High School in Bedford County, VA. Her journey as an educator and her active engagement in various roles reflect her commitment to education and community involvement. Maddie is a proud Longwood University alumna, holding a Master of Science in Health and Physical Education (May 2022) and a Bachelor of Science in Liberal Studies with a concentration in Elementary and Middle School Mathematics Education (May 2021). As a student-athlete she received many awards and recognitions, for academics, athletics, leadership, and service. Now, she proudly serves on the Longwood Graduate Alumni Collaborative. With a robust work background, Maddie has excelled in roles such as Marketing Assistant at Longwood College of Graduate and Professional Services (formally Marketing Graduate Assistant), Social Media Manager for FC Frederick, Remote Teacher at Elevate K12, Camp Counselor at Camp Augusta, Longwood Athletics Compliance Assistant and Marketing and Communications Student Worker, Substitute Teacher, NCAA Soccer Referee, and beyond. Maddie's leadership roles, including serving as the Big South National SAAC Representative and Student Athlete Advisory Committee President at Longwood University, showcase her commitment to student welfare and advocacy. She actively engages in service activities, volunteering for Autism on the Seas, formerly Special Olympics, Alternative Breaks, and other community events, embodying her dedication to making a positive impact beyond the classroom or field.

Guest

Travis Mason

Travis Mason is a sales and business development leader with a strong foundation in emergency medicine and public safety aviation. Currently serving as the Director of Sales for the Northeast U.S. Region at Air Methods, Travis brings a unique blend of clinical expertise and strategic business acumen to the air medical transport industry. With experience spanning both public and private healthcare sectors, Travis has cultivated a deep understanding of the complexities and demands of emergency medical services. His background in EMS not only informs his approach to sales but also underscores his commitment to enhancing patient care through efficient and reliable air transport solutions. Travis holds an MBA from Longwood University (’22), which complements his clinical experience by equipping him with the tools to navigate the business aspects of healthcare effectively. His leadership at Air Methods is characterized by a focus on building strong client relationships, driving regional growth, and fostering a culture of excellence within his team. Based in Farmville, Virginia, Travis is dedicated to advancing the mission of Air Methods by ensuring that communities across the Northeast have access to critical air medical services. His unique combination of hands-on medical experience and strategic leadership positions him as a key player in the ongoing evolution of air medical transport.

What is Longwood GradCast - Beyond the Degree?

Welcome to Longwood GradCast: Beyond the Degree, where we celebrate the stories of Longwood University’s graduate and professional studies alumni, students, faculty, and partners. This season, we’re exploring one powerful theme: The Power of People.
Behind every success story, every career pivot, and every moment of courage or growth, there are people who made an impact: Mentors who guided us. Professors who challenged us. Classmates who encouraged us. Communities that believed in us. And sometimes, the people we became along the way.

This season highlights the relationships that shape us and the ripple effect that happens when people invest in people. From graduates mentoring the next generation to professionals leading change in their communities, these stories remind us that success is never a solo journey.

Whether you’re considering graduate school, advancing your career, or reflecting on the people who helped shape your path, this podcast offers a behind-the-scenes look at the connections that move us forward and the difference they make in the world.
We’re here to support your educational journey and career aspirations. Visit our website at Longwood.edu/Gradprograms to explore our graduate programs and professional endorsements.

Leadership is in our blood. But leadership grows through people.
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Website: www.Longwood.edu/Gradprograms