Hawk Talk

This week, we sit down with a teacher whose path to the classroom was shaped by purpose long before stepping into a school. After 9/11, with the mindset of “If I don’t go, who will?”, the decision to serve in the military became a defining chapter in a journey built on responsibility and commitment to others.From that call to serve to the classroom today, every step reflects the idea of servant leadership, leading by putting others first, showing up with humility, and doing the work that needs to be done. We talk about growth, perspective, and how those experiences shape the way students are supported and empowered each day.An inspiring episode that reminds us leadership isn’t about titles, it’s about stepping forward when it matters most.

This week, we’ve dubbed the episode The Queen’s Court as we welcome two students whose friends have previously joined us on the podcast. We hear about their experiences at WSHS, their future plans, and the many ways they help make our building such a great place.We also try out a new game, One Has to Go, sparking some fun debate, and continue our weekly conversation covering all things Winona Senior High. Another great episode filled with stories, laughs, and Winhawk pride.

This week, we sit down with a longtime educator whose presence has become part of the very fabric of our building. Known, mentioned, and sometimes mythologized on the podcast, this guest is someone who seems to have done it all, and this time, we finally get the real story.We talk experience, perspective, and the lessons that only come from years of showing up, learning, and growing alongside students and staff. It’s a chance to soak up wisdom, hear the truth behind a few legendary tales, and appreciate the impact of someone who has helped shape the culture of WSHS in ways big and small.An insightful, entertaining episode that proves sometimes the people we talk about the most are the ones worth hearing from directly.

This week’s episode is absolutely jam-packed, beginning with a conversation that reminds us success doesn’t always follow a traditional path, or at least the graduation path. We sit down with a second-year special education teacher whose story includes graduating twice without ever walking across a stage. With passion, perspective, and a natural ability to connect, we learn more about the journey that led to the classroom and how those experiences shape meaningful relationships with students.It’s also Winterfest, and we celebrate by talking with this year’s King and Queen about what makes WSHS special and the hopes they have for the future. We wrap things up with a brand-new Games with Gilbe segment, rating movies, music, and food in a fun, fast-paced finish.An episode full of stories, celebration, and good vibes built by the journey that brought everyone here.

This week’s episode features a guest whose reach extends far beyond a single role. From work that touches every corner of the high school to contributions felt throughout the Winona community, the conversation highlights what it means to truly do it all.We talk about wearing many hats, building relationships, and staying grounded while serving students, staff, and the larger community. It’s a behind-the-scenes look at the kind of work that often goes unnoticed but makes everything run a little smoother.

This week’s episode features a guest whose impact is felt every day, even if it’s never sought out. With a grounded perspective shaped by upbringing and experience, the conversation explores what it means to teach with intention, connect with students, and stay true to why the work matters.We dive into classroom approach, personal values, and the importance of showing up consistently, all while keeping the focus where it belongs: on students. The episode wraps with thoughtful advice that resonates far beyond the classroom, offering listeners insight that’s practical, meaningful, and lasting.

This week’s episode features a guest who knows what it means to go the distance. With a deep connection to WSHS and a passion for both precision and perseverance, this conversation highlights the balance between attention to detail and the drive to keep pushing forward.From navigating the numbers behind the scenes to taking on challenges that require serious endurance, this episode is all about commitment, consistency, and what it means to stay in the race for the long haul.A fun, inspiring conversation that reminds us that both in life and at WSHS, success is about showing up, putting in the work, and finishing strong.

This week’s episode features a guest whose life has been defined by service, leadership, and showing up for others. With a background rooted in protecting, mentoring, and coaching, the conversation centers on what it means to build trust, create relationships, and make a difference in everyday moments.From the hallways to the field, this guest brings a presence that students feel and respect, not because of authority, but because of a genuine connection. We talk about leadership, consistency, and why taking the time to know people matters just as much as any role someone holds.A meaningful episode that reminds us the strongest impact often comes from those who lead with heart, humility, and purpose.

This New Year’s Eve episode takes a different approach as we pull back the curtain on the work and conversations that happen beyond the classroom and outside the school day. Listeners get a behind-the-scenes look at the human side of administration, the decisions, balance, and relationships that shape our building long before the first bell and long after the last one rings.As we close out the year, we want to thank everyone who has listened, shared, and supported the podcast along the way. We truly appreciate you being part of our community. Wishing all of our listeners a happy, healthy New Year, we’re excited for what’s ahead.

This week’s episode is full of laughs as we welcome a guest whose journey into teaching started with a simple clerical mix-up and turned into something everyone is glad happened. With a down-to-earth style and a natural ability to make people laugh, the conversation reminds us how joy and humor can make learning stick.We lean into the holiday spirit with a round of Naughty or Nice and a festive Draft Day: Holiday Movie Edition, bringing out strong opinions and plenty of laughs. A fun, lighthearted episode that proves sometimes the best paths begin with a little mistake.

This week’s episode looks a little different with one of our hosts out, but the fun doesn’t slow down. Some familiar faces step in to help keep the conversation rolling, bringing laughs, stories, and a whole lot of energy to the mic.We’re also joined by a guest who brings a contagious energy to our building every day, sparking conversations about connection, presence, and what makes WSHS such a great place to be. A lively, feel-good episode that proves Hawk Talk always finds a way to keep the momentum going.

This week, we sit down with a teacher who brings a truly fearless approach to life and learning. From taking on new challenges to embracing failure as part of growth, this mindset inspires both students and colleagues. With a meaningful connection to WSHS that now comes full circle, the perspective shared in this episode is filled with heart, depth, and authenticity. We explore what it means to try boldly, learn openly, and model resilience for the next generation. A motivating and uplifting conversation that reminds us how powerful it is when a Winhawk leads with courage. It may be cold outside, but this episode will warm the soul!

This week’s show kicks off a little differently than usual, with some film talk and a chance to get to know one of the educators in our building in a new and unexpected way. From there, the conversation continues with a guest whose work helps strengthen the opportunities available to our students and school community.We dive into stories about creativity, support, and what it means to invest in the people and programs that make WSHS what it is. A thoughtful episode that blends connection, gratitude, and the many ways our school is supported behind the scenes.

This week, we highlight a voice whose influence can be felt throughout our district, offering insight into what it means to shape a positive school culture through connection, leadership, and the everyday actions that make WSHS stronger, and because this conversation wasn’t nearly long enough, a Round 2 is already on the horizon.We keep the Thanksgiving spirit alive with a special Draft Day: Thanksgiving Sides Edition, where the debate gets almost as heated as the gravy on the table! A thoughtful, festive episode celebrating the voices that help guide our Winhawk family.

This week, we’re bringing back a special guest for a second take — the first interview may have been lost, but the conversation was too good not to revisit. Our guest is new to WSHS but far from new to education, bringing years of experience, wisdom, and heart to our building.We talk teaching, transitions, and the excitement of starting fresh while still honoring the journey that led here. Sometimes the encore really is better than the original.

This week, we welcome our first-ever "Tri-Force" of guests as we shine a light on kindness, inclusion, and belonging at WSHS. We talk about empowering students with real-world skills, building a supportive school community, and helping every Winhawk feel seen and valued.A heartfelt, uplifting episode reminding us that kindness has the power to shape our school every single day.

This week marks a milestone as we feature our first-ever student takeover with a student stepping in as co-host. We’re joined by a guest who is new to the WSHS community but already plays a big role in the energy of our events and school spirit.We also have our first remote guest, adding a different element to Hawk Talk. Together, we talk about community, belonging, and what it means to truly be present in our building and show up for each other in the stands, in the hallways, and in everyday interactions.A new voice in the nest. A new era for the show.

Special addition, MEA BREAK! In this episode, we catch up with familiar faces who have a unique perspective on WSHS. From microphones to microscopes, the conversation hits all the right notes as we talk music, memories, and the moments that shaped their journey. It’s a mix of laughter, nostalgia, and a little Winhawk pride as we go back where it all began.

This week, we welcome the Indiana Jones of Winona. A true adventurer with deep WSHS connections and a passion for history, craftsmanship, and exploration. From the forge to the ballfield to destinations far beyond, this conversation uncovers how curiosity and experience shape the journey. We close with Draft Day: Lunch Line Edition, where the hosts build their ultimate school lunch trays and spark some delicious debate!  

In this episode, we welcome a special guest who shares powerful insight into the role of supporting students, navigating challenges, and the importance of attitude and resilience. The hosts debut a brand-new segment, Draft Day, where we draft our favorite elementary playground games in a battle for recess glory. And just when things settle in, a surprise twist makes this episode even more memorable.