’Mid the Pines Podcast

Episode 026: Heart to Heart: A Journey into Pediatric Cardiology

As a pediatric cardiologist and Professor of Pediatrics at the Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Dr. Justin Tretter ‘06 discusses his journey from GCC to a leading expert in cardiac imaging and congenital heart care. With over 170 published articles and his role as editor-in-chief for the upcoming 5th edition of Anderson’s Pediatric Cardiology textbook, he shares insights into his impactful work, including his role as Lead Medical Scientist at Cara Medical. Tune in to learn about his experiences, challenges, and advice for future medical professionals!

Episode 025: Behind the Scenes with “The Chosen” with JD Larsen '96 and Melissa (Trifaro '96) MacLeod

In this episode of the ‘Mid the Pines podcast, we sat down with Grove City College alumni JD Larsen '96 and Melissa (Trifaro '96) MacLeod. JD, the CFO of 5&2 Studios—responsible for the production of The Chosen TV series on the life and ministry of Jesus—shares his journey from Grove City College to his role in one of the most successful faith-based series today. JD also shares the significance of the series’ production moves, funding model changes, and the studio's future plans. Melissa, Senior Director of Alumni and College Relations, reflects on their recent visit to The Chosen set in Texas. From campus memories to career advice, this episode offers an insightful and inspiring conversation for alumni and fans of The Chosen alike - Don't miss Season 5, now in theaters in three parts during April! 

Episode 024: President Paul J. McNulty ’80, Dr. Paul Kengor, & Andrew Coffin ’98 - From Grove City to Hollywood: Behind the Scenes of "Reagan"

President Paul J. McNulty ’80 served as host of this 'Mid the Pines podcast episode with Dr. Paul Kengor, professor of political science and executive director of the Institute for Faith & Freedom at GCC, and alumnus Andrew Coffin ’98, vice president and director of the Reagan Ranch in Santa Barbara, Ca. The pair unpacked their personal and professional connections and talked about their experiences beyond the classroom that have taken them to places far west as they worked together to film Reagan, the 2024 film adapted from Kengor's book, The Crusader. 

Episode 023: Dr. Karin Hendrickson '99 - Striking a Chord: How Music and Sports Shape Success

In this inspiring episode, Jeff Tedford '00 (Chair; Professor of Music at Grove City College) sits down with Dr. Karin Hendrickson '99, a dynamic alumna whose journey through the worlds of music and sports has significantly shaped her path to success. Join us as we explore Karin's early passions and the pivotal moments that led her to excel both as a musician and an athlete.

Episode 022: Robert J. Lewis '64 - A Legacy of Leadership

Robert J. Lewis '64 is a distinguished alumnus and a 2024 recipient of our Jack Kennedy Memorial Alumni Achievement Award. From his humble beginnings to becoming a renowned figure in the business world, Robert's journey is a testament to resilience and innovation. Listen to this episode to discover how he transformed challenges into opportunities, leading to a successful career and life lived with philanthropy. We'll explore his insights on leadership, the importance of giving back, and how his time at GCC shaped his path.

Episode 021: Dr. Kristina Pazehoski '01 - The Science of Mentorship

Dr. Kristina Pazehoski '01 is Grove City College’s Chair of the Department of Biology. In this episode, Kristina shares her journey from GCC student to GCC professor, including her humble reaction to being named Omicron Delta Kappa's Professor of the Year in 2018. Kristina reveals how her relationships with students developed a passion for mentorship, bringing full circle her own formative experiences with GCC professors who mentored her in years past. Listen to this episode to learn more about the "science" of mentoring students, from spiritual ministry to her current research with students studying the gut microbiome.

Episode 020: Richard Staley '62 - Impacting and Investing in Future Generations

Richard G. Staley ’62 is a successful entrepreneur and generous benefactor of Grove City College. He earned his bachelor degree in Chemical Engineering from GCC and then spent 15 years working for a company before he discovered his passion for starting his own business.  In 1977 he founded Flavor House Inc., and then years later he started Staley Equipment Corp.  In 2020, Richard gave 4 million dollars towards Grove City College, and in recognition of his generous gift, the Board approved renaming our primary academic building in his honor - Staley Hall of Arts and Letters. Join us in getting to know Richard through this podcast conversation, as we discuss his career journey and his passion for impacting the next generation!

Episode 019: Jake Reid '05 - What You Can't Coach

Jake Reid '05 is the President and CEO of Sporting Kansas City (Sporting KC) - one of 29 teams in major league soccer (MLS). Jake received his bachelor's degree in marketing management from Grove City College and also played on the varsity basketball team. He launched his career in the National Basketball Association (NBA) as an Accounting Executive and Sales Manager. He then moved to England, working as a Ticket Sales Manager for the Derby County Football Club.  Jake has been with Sporting KC since 2010 in various roles, serving as President and CEO since the age of 33.  Join us to learn more about what Jake does in his current role and how he has achieved success as a young professional.

BONUS Episode: Impact 150 Celebration - Join us Nov. 3 @ Gecko Robotics (Pittburgh, Pa.)

Join Development Officer Zach Jew '11 and Vice President for Advancement Jeff Prokovich '89 as they discuss the exciting Impact 150 Launch Celebration event to be held on November 3, and the innovative work being done by event host, Gecko Robotics. This alumni-owned company is leading the way in high-tech global solutions for industry and infra-structure and have some pretty special ties to the College. Don't miss this special video edition and get registered now for an evening you won't want to miss on November 3rd!     

Episode 018: Michael Lazarus ’77 - Hiring Character, Training Talent, and Investing in Relationships

Michael Lazarus ’77 is a past recipient of the Jack Kennedy Memorial Alumni Achievement Award and holds a bachelor's degree in accounting from Grove City College. He currently serves on the Board of Directors of companies Azul Linhas Aereas Brasileiras and Breeze Airways. The founding Chairman of JetBlue Airways and Co-Chairman of Fender Musical Instruments Corp., he has served on the Board of Directors for Jimmy John’s Gourmet Sandwiches, Restoration Hardware, Morris Air/Southwest Airlines, Guitar Centers, Inc., Integro, Inc., Apple American Group (Applebee’s), and many other privately-held growth companies. With this much business expertise, Michael had a lot of wisdom to share - tune in to learn about his story of perseverance to improve and advance in all he does.