’Mid the Pines Podcast

Ep. 038: Leading When It Matters Most: Lessons in Leadership with Dr. Richard Stone

What does it take to lead in high-stakes environments—and stay grounded in faith and purpose?
In this episode of Mid the Pines, former Undersecretary for Health for the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) Dr. Rich Stone shares lessons from his career in military and national healthcare leadership, along with reflections on raising a Grove City graduate. From leading complex teams to making tough decisions during the COVID-19 pandemic, this conversation offers practical wisdom and encouragement for aspiring leaders.

Ep. 037: Time, Talent, and Tradition-Investing in the Place That Invested in You with Steve DeCaspers '97

In this episode of Mid the Pines, host Zach Jew ’11 sits down with Steve DeCaspers ’97, current Alumni Council President, to explore the lasting impact of alumni engagement at Grove City College. From personal reflections on his student experience to leading the Alumni Council today, Steve shares how graduates can stay meaningfully connected through their time, talent, and resources. Hear stories of mentorship, service, and generosity—and discover how even small steps can strengthen the Grove City community for generations to come. Whether you’re newly graduated or years removed, this conversation offers simple, meaningful ways to reconnect and make an impact.

Ep 036: 1,200 People. One Vision. How Great Leaders Make It Real with Barbara (Bentz '83) Staniscia

What does it take to align 1,200 people around a single vision? In this episode of Mid the Pines, Zach Jew sits down with Barbara (Bentz '83) Staniscia, President and General Manager of Bechtel Plant Machinery, Inc., to explore how great leaders turn vision into reality. From her Grove City roots to leading mission-critical work supporting the U.S. Navy, Barb shares practical insights on culture, purpose, and leading people through complexity.

Ep 035: From Psychology Major to Bank Executive: Jordyn (Taylor ’03) Kemats on Leadership, Being People-Forward, and Finding Your Path

In this episode, we sit down with Grove City College alumna Jordyn (Taylor ’03) Kemats, Executive Vice President of S&T Bank, to explore a vocational journey shaped by faith, leadership, and lifelong learning. From her beginnings as a psychology major to leading enterprise transformation in banking, Jordyn reflects on how calling often unfolds one step at a time. Together, we discuss leadership through change, decision‑making grounded in character, and the role of faith in navigating responsibility and growth—offering encouragement to students and professionals discerning their own paths.

 

Ep 034: Sesquicentennial Stories: 150 Years of Grove City College with Hilary (Lewis '09) Walczak

In this special sesquicentennial episode of 'Mid the Pines, our host Zach Jew ’11 sits down with Hilary (Lewis ’09) Walczak to explore the 150-year story of Grove City College. From the College’s founding in 1876 to the traditions that still shape campus life today, Hilary offers a unique perspective from the College Archives — highlighting the people, moments, and convictions that have defined Grove City across generations. The conversation also looks ahead to the 2026 sesquicentennial celebration and what it means for alumni, students, and friends of the College. Join us as we reflect on a legacy of faith, leadership, and enduring impact — and consider what the next 150 years might hold.

**After this episode was recorded, we learned of the passing of Dr. Edwin P. “Doc” Arnold on March 16, 2026. Dr. Arnold served as longtime Director of Bands and Chair of the Music Department at Grove City College, and also held several senior administrative roles across campus. He was 80.

Ep 033: BONUS EPISODE Featuring President Brad Lingo’s '00 Inauguration Speech

A special bonus episode featuring President Brad Lingo’s '00 inauguration address as the 10th president of Grove City College, highlighting the College’s mission and the enduring values that define who we are.

Ep 032: Learning the Long Way: Formation, Leadership, and Endurance with Nick Matthews '95

In this episode of Mid the Pines, Grove City College alumnus Nick Matthews ’95—business leader, executive coach, and accomplished endurance athlete—joins host Zach Jew '11 to explore how leaders are shaped over time. From his early days studying Industrial Management to leading teams, learning through failure, and eventually coaching CEOs, Nick shares candid insights on formation, humility, and the long view of leadership. He also reflects on the discipline behind completing 76 marathons and ultramarathons, and how endurance principles translate directly into effective leadership. This is a conversation about growth, stewardship, and learning the long way.

Ep 031: Faith at Home Plate: From GCC to the Red Sox, Kyle Sasala

In this episode of 'Mid the Pines, we sit down with Kyle Sasala, a former Grove City College Baseball Coach who is currently serving as a minor league coach for the Portland Sea Dogs, the Double-A affiliate for the Boston Red Sox. Before stepping into professional baseball, Kyle spent several years on the Varsity Baseball staff at Grove City College, where he poured into student-athletes and helped live out an athletic department culture built around a simple but powerful mantra: Wolverines Together.

Ep 030: Moving into our next 150 with Brad Lingo '00, President of Grove City College

Our newest 'Mid the Pines episode features Brad Lingo ’00, J.D., the 10th President of Grove City College, for a dynamic conversation about his first semester in office, his transition from Regent University’s Law School, and his vision for the College as it marks its 150th anniversary in 2026. He offers an engaging look at upcoming celebrations and how the broader community can participate. Tune in to learn more about what to expect in this milestone year as we look toward our exciting future.

Ep 029: Finding Home at Grove City College with Yvonne Lingo, First Lady of Grove City College

In this episode of Mid the Pines, we sit down with Yvonne Lingo, the new First Lady of Grove City College. Yvonne shares her family’s experience of settling into campus life, the joys and surprises of living at the heart of GCC, and the moments that made it feel like home.

The conversation highlights her passion for community, hospitality, and discipleship, including her vision for hosting the upcoming Senior Women’s Bible Study in the President’s House. Enjoy a warm and thoughtful dialogue about gratitude, faith, and the unique spirit of Grove City College, as Yvonne looks ahead with hope and intention for the semesters to come.