Best Office of the Alumni Association Podcasts (2025)

1
#071 with Madie Fischer - Amazing Ames High Senior 25:09

8d ago25:09

25:09

On this episode, we were joined by Ames High senior, Madie Fischer. We had an amazing conversation about winning the Iowa Choral Directors Association composition competition, what it’s like to compose music, her love of fine arts, and her plans for the future.By Ames Community School District

1
#070 with Jessica Sharp on Creating a Sense of Belonging 26:37

15d ago26:37

26:37

On this episode, we were joined by Jessica Sharp, principal at Edwards Elementary. We had an amazing conversation about what belonging means in elementary schools, how to support teachers and staff in building strong relationships with students and families, and the role student voice plays in shaping school culture.…

1
"The Fun is in the Work: How Theatre Education Promotes Citizenship & Personal Growth" 1:09:54

16d ago1:09:54

1:09:54

Join Kami as she interviews special guest Pollyanna Parker about all the many resources she has learned from TAA year-round programs over the years and how they shaped her career as a theatre educator. This time of reflection will surely refresh your focus as you finish up a year of lasting connections made in your arts classrooms! Pollyanna Parker…

1
#069 with Todd Klindt on School PTOs 24:05

22d ago24:05

24:05

On this episode, we were joined by Todd Klindt, former PTO president and engaged parent in our school district. We had an amazing conversation about being a parent volunteer, the role PTO organizations play in our schools, and how parent involvement can positively impact a child’s experience at school.…

1
#068 with Eddie McEwan on Math Anxiety 31:12

30d ago31:12

31:12

On this episode, we were joined by Eddie McEwan, a 7th-grade math teacher at Ames Middle School. We had an amazing conversation about math anxiety, its common triggers, teaching strategies to help students, and how to develop a grown mindset when it comes to learning math.By Ames Community School District

1
“Art Can Build Confidence: Helping Students Realize Their Power to Respond as an Individual” with Emily McEneely 44:26

2M ago44:26

44:26

Join us as Emily McEneely shares how arts education classes are a big opportunity to build community and confidence and how this can be important for both students and teachers. She gives tips on how to make your department more valued and recognized and reflects on how collaboration is key for personal progress. Emily McEneely teaches PK-3 visual …

1
#067 with Eric Sackett on College and Career Readiness 24:52

2M ago24:52

24:52

On this episode, we were joined by Eric Sackett, a college and career transition counselor with DMACC. We had an amazing conversation about his role at Ames High with college and career transition, how he helps students overcome uncertainties, and programs or initiatives that can help students with their next step after high school.…

1
"1% Better Every Day: How to Create "Buy-In" With Students & Administration" with Kerry Vaughn 42:48

3M ago42:48

42:48

Join Kami Lunsford as she talks shop with Kerry Vaughn who has some tips for cultivating a relationship with your administration and staff, some must-have resources and tools for the middle school band room, and wisdom about getting our students to commit to progress on a daily basis. Kerry Vaughn is a seasoned band director at Spring Station Middl…

1
#066 with Anna Metcalf about School Nursing 23:25

3M ago23:25

23:25

On this episode, we are joined by Anna Metcalf, school nurse at Ames High School and our nursing staff lead. We had an amazing conversation about her journey to being a school nurse, how her role has evolved, and how she supports the overall health and well-being of students.By Ames Community School District

1
#065 with Dunkin Bearson about Being a State Thespian Officer 17:01

4M ago17:01

17:01

On this episode, we were joined by Dunkin Bearson a junior at Ames High School. We had an amazing conversation about his recent honor of becoming one of 5 state thespian officers for 2025, his favorite production and most memorable moments on stage, and how he sees theater shaping his future.By Ames Community School District

1
"What We Do Is Magic: How Connectivity Can Be Self Care For Arts Educators & Their Students" with Erica Holmes Darr 55:27

4M ago55:27

55:27

Erica Holmes Darr encourages us to "take a breath" and explore how building community can make meaningful change in our creative spaces! Erica is a passionate and dedicated music educator who began her teaching career in 2003 after earning a degree in Vocal Music Education from Austin Peay State University. Throughout her career, Darr has taught a …

1
#064 with Kate Engelkes and Chuck Ripley about AHS Speech Club 29:59

5M ago29:59

29:59

On this episode, we were joined by Kate Engelkes and Chuck Ripley, coaches for the Ames High speech program. We’re going to have an amazing conversation about speech at Ames High, what inspired them to become coaches, and the key skill students take away from this experience.By Ames Community School District

1
Alumni Evolution-S2E12-Ryan '12 & Jaimie (Fike) Moore '12 57:40

5M ago57:40

57:40

Wesleyan Sweethearts Ryan ’12 & Jaimie (Fike) Moore ’12 lead a busy life with their #FuturePanthers, Micah & Rosie. Tune in to today’s episode of Alumni Evolution: The Official Podcast of the KWC Alumni Association to learn more about this creative and generous pair!By Kentucky Wesleyan College

1
#063 - with Bill Ripp, Founder of the Ames High Alumni Association 27:29

5M ago27:29

27:29

On today’s episode, we are joined by Bill Ripp, former teacher and associate principal at Ames High School, and founder of the Ames High Alumni Association. We’re going to have an amazing conversation about his journey to teaching, working in a school leadership role, and how the alumni association helps keep former students connected.…

1
Alumni Evolution-S2E11-Tevin Vincent '14 46:13

6M ago46:13

46:13

Our 2024 Outstanding Alumnus of the Arts Tevin Vincent ’14 may be young, but he’s already had an incredible career. Tune in to the newest episode of Alumni Evolution: The Official Podcast of the KWC Alumni Association to learn more about his story!By Kentucky Wesleyan College

1
#062 - with Anna Brooks, Agriculture Teacher at Ames High 20:37

7M ago20:37

20:37

On this episode, we were joined by Anna Brooks, the Career and Technical Education Agriculture Teacher at Ames High. We had an amazing conversation about agriculture education, student’s evolving interest in agriculture, the FFA program, and shaping future leaders at Ames High.By Ames Community School District

1
Alumni Evolution-S2E10-Peggie Greer 33:55

7M ago33:55

33:55

Today’s guest on Alumni Evolution: The Official Podcast of the KWC Alumni Association is 2024 Gus E. Paris Distinguished Service Awardee Peggie Greer! Tune in today to hear more about the evolution of this long-time staff member who’s made a difference in the lives of thousands of students during her time here.…

1
#061 - with Kathy Geis about the Homeschool Assistance Program 23:24

7M ago23:24

23:24

On this episode, we were joined by Kathy Geis, Homeschool Assistance Program Coordinator for the Ames Community School District. We had an amazing conversation about homeschooling in the District, her role as the HSAP coordinator, and the different options available to families in our community.By Ames Community School District

1
Alumni Evolution-S2E9-Danielle Woodward '88 47:30

8M ago47:30

47:30

After graduating magna cum laude with a trip major from KWC, Danielle Woodward ’88 hit the ground running. Tune in to today’s episode of Alumni Evolution: The Official Podcast of the KWC Alumni Association to learn about her accomplished career and how it eventually led her back home to be the assistant professor of management at Kentucky Wesleyan.…

1
Alumni Evolution-S2E8-Kelly '94 & John Steitler 48:04

8M ago48:04

48:04

Kelly (Keohane) ’94 and John Steitler epitomize The Wesleyan Way. Tune in to today’s episode of Alumni Evolution: The Official Podcast of the KWC Alumni Association to learn more about these 2024 Roy Pickerill Alumni Service Awardees and what community service means to them.By Kentucky Wesleyan College

1
Alumni Evolution-S2E7-Eric Feldpausch '11 38:28

8M ago38:28

38:28

Today’s guest on Alumni Evolution: The Official Podcast of the KWC Alumni Association is Eric Feldpausch ’11. Tune in today to learn more about the new president of the KWC Alumni Association and the plans he has for his alma mater!By Kentucky Wesleyan College

1
Alumni Evolution-S2E6-Miss Jennifer 44:28

9M ago44:28

44:28

Jennifer “Miss” Jennifer Taylor might’ve hung her apron up in Hocker Family Dining Center, but she’s not getting away that easily! Tune in to today’s episode of Alumni Evolution: The Official Podcast of the KWC Alumni Association to learn more about this Honorary Alumna and what it’s meant to her to serve KWC students for the past nearly 40 years.…

1
Alumni Evolution-S2E5-President Dr. James Cousins 49:57

9M ago49:57

49:57

Today’s the first day of classes here at Kentucky Wesleyan, so what better fit for today’s guest than our new president?! Tune in to today’s episode of Alumni Evolution: The Official Podcast of the KWC Alumni Association to learn more about Dr. James Cousins, the 36th President of Kentucky Wesleyan College.…

1
40: Cultural Intelligence Evangelist Catherine Wu on Cultural Intelligence 38:54

9M ago38:54

38:54

Navigating cultural differences in global teams can be a daunting challenge, triggering misunderstandings, inefficiencies, and even conflict. However, cultural intelligence empowers leaders to bridge these divides fostering mutual understanding, collaboration, and innovation. In episode 20 of the Leaders People Love series, Dr. Catherine Wu, a Cult…

1
Alumni Evolution-S2E4-Dr. Jackie Fischer '89 39:30

9M ago39:30

39:30

Alumni board member Dr. Jackie Fischer ’89 is one-of-a-kind and she’s today’s guest on Alumni Evolution: The Official Podcast of the KWC Alumni Association. Tune in to learn how this softball alumna arrived at K-Dub and how her career and life has evolved since.By Kentucky Wesleyan College

1
Alumni Evolution-S2E3-Dr. Thomas Mitzel 59:22

9M ago59:22

59:22

Dr. Tom Mitzel spent nearly 5 years as president of Kentucky Wesleyan College and did many great things for our alma mater. Tune in for this farewell episode with Dr. Mitzel where we show him what matters most – once a Panther, always a Panther.By Kentucky Wesleyan College

1
Alumni Evolution-S2E2-Brandon Cox '10 1:06:14

9M ago1:06:14

1:06:14

Did you know that we currently have an alumnus training to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro?! Tune in to today’s episode of Alumni Evolution: The Official Podcast of the KWC Alumni Association to learn more about Brandon Cox ’10!By KWC Alumni Association

1
Alumni Evolution-S2E1-Jay Ivey '11 57:14

10M ago57:14

57:14

Alumni Evolution: The Official Podcast of the KWC Alumni Association is kicking off Season 2 with Jay Ivey ’11! Tune in to learn how this Panther Basketball alumnus is staying engaged with his alma mater all the way from North Dakota!By KWC Alumni Association

1
Alumni Evolution - Nick Hines ’18 20:11

10M ago20:11

20:11

A combination of things brought Nick Hines ’18 to Kentucky Wesleyan. The opportunity to play football for the Panthers was a big draw, and the proximity to his hometown, small class sizes and the overall atmosphere of the Wesleyan family sealed the deal. Tune in to learn about Nick’s evolution after graduating!…

1
#060 - with Scott Grimes, New Ames CSD Superintendent 27:33

10M ago27:33

27:33

On this episode, we are joined by Scott Grimes, new Superintendent for the Ames Community School District. We had an amazing conversation about his vision for the District, plans to engage students, families and the community, how he will measure success as superintendent, and his message for students and families as we go into a new school year.…

1
Alumni Evolution - Class of 1973 1:11:14

11M ago1:11:14

1:11:14

Season 1 of Alumni Evolution: The Official Podcast of the KWC Alumni Association is wrapping up with a special episode featuring 4 members from the Class of 1973! Peggie (Pratt) Stewart ’73, John Brennan ’73, Beth (Robinson) Ronk ’73 and Kathy Sherman ’73 have a friendship that’s lasted over 50 years. Tune in to today’s episode to learn how these n…

1
#059 - with Dan Rader, Director of Technology 50:31

11M ago50:31

50:31

On today’s episode, we were joined by Dan Rader, Director of Technology for the Ames Community School District. We had an amazing conversation about K-12 technology, how it has evolved over the years and its impact on education, new tech advancements, and tips for student technology use.By Ames Community School District

1
Alumni Evolution - Lori (Parks) Byers '00 37:54

11M ago37:54

37:54

Soon after graduating from KWC with a degree in communications & public relations, KWC Alumni Association board member and Madisonville native Lori (Parks) Byers ’00 began a career in insurance, and that career has evolved into something she couldn’t have predicted when starting. Tune into the newest episode of Alumni Evolution: The Official Podcas…

1
39: Deputy Pro Vice Chancellor of Research Prof Ida Fatimawati Adi Badiozaman on Empowering Women And Overcoming Imposter Syndrome 33:39

11M ago33:39

33:39

The underrepresentation of women and marginalized groups in leadership within corporate and academic sectors is significant. There is a critical need for proactive steps to improve representation and include women in decision-making roles, which will, in turn, benefit families and communities. In episode 19 of the Leaders People Love series, Prof I…

1
Alumni Evolution - Joel Utley '74 51:01

11M ago51:01

51:01

When you tune into our newest episode of Alumni Evolution: The Official Podcast of the KWC Alumni Association, chances are you’ll recognize the voice of this week’s guest! Joel Utley ’74 was the Voice of the Panthers for KWC basketball for over 60 years and is still a loyal fan today. The KWC Athletic and Alumni Hall of Famer announced the radio pl…

1
38: Chief Human Resources officer Neetha Nair on Sustainbility Strategies for HR Leaders 28:39

11M ago28:39

28:39

The traditional view of retirement often involves a complete halt in work, overlooking individual needs or desires, thus restricting people's ability to continue contributing. It is crucial to offer employees with flexible alternatives that allow them to tailor their futures according to their aspirations and abilities. In episode 18 of the Leaders…

1
Alumni Evolution - Becca McQueen-Ruark 53:04

11M ago53:04

53:04

This week’s guest on Alumni Evolution: The Official Podcast of the KWC Alumni Association is 2024 Honorary Alumna Becca McQueen-Ruark! Tune in to learn how a grant-funded opportunity brought this beloved Wesleyan staff member to Kentucky Wesleyan a decade ago and learn what’s kept her here since.By KWC Alumni Association

1
#058 - with Ames High Student & Artist, Ella Grail 21:44

11M ago21:44

21:44

On this episode, we were joined by Ames High 9th grader, Ella Grail. We had an amazing conversation about being the Iowa winner for the Doodle for Google contest, how she became interested in art, and how she balances both her artwork and school work at the same time.By Ames Community School District

1
#057 with Ben Matthies about Alternative Learning Program (ALP) 31:58

12M ago31:58

31:58

On this episode, we were joined by Ames High teacher, Ben Matthies. We had an amazing conversation about the Alternative Learning Program at Ames High, including what is ALP, how it is different from traditional education models, and the role teachers, students, and parents play.By Ames Community School District

1
Alumni Evolution - Claire Sloane '24 & Shelbi Patterson '24 38:46

12M ago38:46

38:46

Today’s episode of Alumni Evolution: The Official Podcast of the KWC Alumni Association features not one, but TWO of our newest alumnae! Tune in to hear how Class of 2024 Senior Committee members Claire Sloane ’24 and Shelbi Patterson ’24 evolved during their time at Kentucky Wesleyan and where they’re each headed next!…

1
Alumni Evolution - Sara (Fleischmann) Williams ’15 42:18

12M ago42:18

42:18

Sara (Fleischmann) Williams ’15 was recently named our 2024 Outstanding Young Graduate and is today’s guest on Alumni Evolution: The Official Podcast of the KWC Alumni Association! Tune in to learn more about how this young alumna has evolved into a successful young professional and community leader since her days as a student leader at Kentucky We…

1
#056 - with Dr. Numedahl, Ames High Principal 39:28

1y ago39:28

39:28

On today’s episode, we were joined by Ames High Principal Dr. Paul Numedahl. We had an amazing conversation about what inspired him to go into school leadership, the rewarding aspects of his role, and his hopes and aspirations for the future of Ames High.By Ames Community School District

1
Alumni Evolution - Shawn Tomes '94 1:00:34

1y ago1:00:34

1:00:34

KWC’s VP of Mission & Culture Shawn Tomes ’94 is this week’s guest on Alumni Evolution: The Official Podcast of the KWC Alumni Association! Tune in to learn how Shawn has evolved since his days as a Kentucky Wesleyan student, and how he made his way back home to lead the College.By KWC Alumni Association

1
37: Technopreneur Farmer, Aaron Chen on Choosing An Unconventional Career 22:48

1y ago22:48

22:48

The lack of purpose at work can significantly impact morale, productivity, and retention, ultimately affecting business success. By aligning company values with personal beliefs, leaders can nurture a culture of loyalty and purpose. In episode 17 of the Leaders People Love series, Aaron Chen, a Technopreneur Farmer, emphasizes the importance of tak…

1
Alumni Evolution - Dr. Darlene Ingram '91 52:35

1y ago52:35

52:35

Dr. Darlene Ingram ’91 is an Associate Professor of Chemistry here at Kentucky Wesleyan and is today’s guest on Alumni Evolution: The Official Podcast of the KWC Alumni Association! Tune in to hear how this alumna found her way back home to Kentucky Wesleyan after earning her M.S. and Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry from the University of Louisville.…

1
Alumni Evolution - Sam Taylor '97 51:08

1y ago51:08

51:08

Panther Football Alumnus Sam Taylor ’97 is this week’s guest on Alumni Evolution: The Official Podcast of the KWC Alumni Association! Tune in to learn about how the past-president of the KWC Alumni Association continues to stay involved with KWC in a variety of ways. We’ll give you a hint: #TheWesleyanWay runs in the family!…

1
#055 - with Commander Dan Walter about P3 Campus 26:27

1y ago26:27

26:27

On this episode, we were joined by Dan Walter, Commander at the Ames Police Department. We had an amazing conversation about our new anonymous reporting tool called P3 Campus, including how the system works collaboratively between the District and Ames PD, and the benefits of having such a system in place.…

1
Alumni Evolution - Michelle (Davenport) Hickerson '95 1:04:41

1y ago1:04:41

1:04:41

Alumni Association board member Michelle (Davenport) Hickerson ’95 is this week’s guest on Alumni Evolution: The Official Podcast of the KWC Alumni Association! Tune in to learn how this mental health nurse practitioner has evolved since her days as a student here at KWC!By KWC Alumni Association

1
Alumni Evolution - Greg Risch '93 49:25

1y ago49:25

49:25

2018 Outstanding Alumnus Greg Risch ’93 has quite the story to share on this week’s episode of Alumni Evolution: The Official Podcast of the KWC Alumni Association. Tune in to learn more about the evolution of this Panther Football alumnus, including how he continues to stay involved with the College as a KWC Trustee and how he became the President…

1
36: Founder and CEO of Backscoop Amanda Cua, on Shattering Self-Limiting Beliefs and Designing the Perfect Career 37:33

1y ago37:33

37:33

Opting for an unconventional career path can trigger uncertainty insecurity, and pressure from societal expectations. But it enables us to create a customized career trajectory that resonates with our values, passions, and aspirations leading to long-term fulfillment in our careers. In episode 16 of the Leaders People Love series, Amanda Cua, the f…

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