On this episode of Slightly Less Scripted, we welcome Chris Rizik, CEO of Renaissance Venture Capital and publisher of the world’s largest online magazine dedicated to soul music, Soul Tracks. Chris dives into how AI-generated music is reshaping the music industry, disrupting music news outlets, and challenging the way artists create and share their work. He also offers an inside look at how Renaissance Venture Capital is fueling Detroit’s startup ecosystem. Finally, Chris shares hone...
In this episode of Slightly Less Scripted, we sit down with Dominic Recchione ’26, the creative force behind @OfficialDrEffects and one of Catholic Central’s most talented young sports cinematographers. Dominic shares how his journey began with simple edits on his cell phone and grew into producing electric highlight reels that have become a staple of CC athletics. He takes us behind the lens—telling stories from the sidelines, sharing advice for aspiring content creators, and how his time at...
On this episode of Slightly Less Scripted, we sit down with Dr. Ron Kuzdak ’87, whose journey has taken him from the battle-ready decks of the U.S. Navy to the corridors of modern medicine. He opens up about how his Catholic Central roots shaped his character, his long and distinguished career in naval service, and the calling that led him to become a physician. Dr. Kuzdak reflects on moments of challenge and growth, the transition between military and medical worlds, and the ways faith and d...
In this episode of Slightly Less Scripted, we sit down with Mike Cox ’80, former Michigan Attorney General and gubernatorial candidate, for a candid conversation about leadership, law, and the lessons learned along the way. A proud Catholic Central alumnus, Mike reflects on how he and his brothers found their path to CC, the foundation it built for his career, and what ultimately led him into the world of politics. He shares memorable moments from his time as Attorney General, the challenges ...
In this episode of Slightly Less Scripted, we sit down with Al DiPrima, Catholic Central’s School Safety Officer from Fortis Group, whose journey from a career in law enforcement to serving the CC community is both powerful and inspiring. Al shares stories from his years in the field, the lessons learned from moments of challenge and sacrifice, and how his faith and family ultimately guided him toward a new chapter—protecting and mentoring the next generation. It’s a candid conversation about...
In this episode of Slightly Less Scripted, we sit down with Caleb White ’20 — founder of the Caleb White Project, Nickelodeon HALO Award winner, University of Michigan graduate, and aspiring actor. From launching a youth-led movement to help the unsheltered and empower young leaders, to pursuing his passion for storytelling and performance, Caleb’s journey is a testament to empathy and action. Through the Caleb White Project, he’s shown how service and leadership can start young and ripple fa...
In this episode of Slightly Less Scripted, we sit down with Evan Stockton ’14, one of Detroit’s brightest young voices in sports broadcasting. From calling Triple-A baseball games at just 20 years old to earning back-to-back Michigan Emmy Awards for Sports Play-by-Play, Evan’s career has been defined by passion, preparation, and perseverance. Now a national broadcaster for ESPN, and the TV voice of the Motor City Cruise, Western Michigan athletics, and the MHSAA Finals, Evan shares stories fr...
In this episode of Slightly Less Scripted, we sit down with Ed Turek ’85, Catholic Central’s first lay-President, to explore his journey from student to school leader. Ed reflects on his days as a Shamrock, how he helped shape the Admissions Office, and what life was like for him after graduation before returning to CC. Now at the helm of the school, Ed shares his vision for Catholic Central today and what it means to continue the Shamrock legacy of faith, family, and excellence.
In this episode of Slightly Less Scripted, we sit down with Randy Shacka, President of Two Men and a Truck — the nation’s largest franchised moving company. From starting as an intern in Lansing while studying engineering at Michigan State to leading a company with more than 95 consecutive months of growth, Randy’s journey is one of humility, perseverance, and servant leadership. He shares insights on building a values-driven business, empowering people through growth, and the lessons learned...
In this episode of Slightly Less Scripted, we welcome Lou Yeager ’89, a Catholic Central Football All-American whose journey took him from the U.S. Air Force Academy to earning a law degree and building a successful career in commercial insurance. Lou opens up about the challenges he faced along the way and how the foundation formed in Catholic Central’s classrooms, fields, and Chapel gave him the strength to persevere. His story is one of resilience, faith, and gratitude—a reminder of the la...
In Episode 4 of Slightly Less Scripted, we sit down with Varsity Basketball Head Coach Tory Jackson and Assistant Coach Brian “LB” Booker, who not only lead on the court but also serve as part of the full-time Catholic Central staff. Together, they share candid reflections on CC Basketball, their family connections, and how their upbringing in Saginaw, Michigan shaped their lives and careers. Tory and LB also give us an inside look at their brand-new podcast, “Called 2 Compete,” coming soon t...
In Episode 3 of Slightly Less Scripted, Stephen sits down with Jim Shannon ’93, beloved as the “Voice of Shamrock Athletics” for his years announcing CC football and other athletic events on campus. By day, Jim works at Ford Motor Company, but on Friday nights you’ll find him behind the mic, bringing Shamrock spirit to life. Jim shares how he first got into broadcasting, his favorite memories from Catholic Central, and what makes the home game experience at CC so special. Plus, the conversat...
In this episode of Slightly Less Scripted, we welcome Thomas Sartor ’09, a Catholic Central graduate whose journey has taken him around the world speaking about the importance of heroism in everyday life. Thomas has worked with organizations including Amplifi Assessment, Hero Round Table, and The Heroic Imagination Project, inspiring audiences to see themselves as heroes in their own communities. He reflects on his time at CC, shares stories from his travels across the globe, and reminds us ...
In our very first episode of Slightly Less Scripted, we sit down with Catholic Central Principal Fr. Patrick W. Fulton, CSB to hear his story of answering the call to the priesthood. Fr. Fulton shares what it means to live and serve as a Basilian priest, reflects on his own faith journey, and offers a unique perspective on how Catholic Central stands alongside other Basilian high schools. Whether you’re an alum, parent, or friend of CC, this candid conversation offers an inside look at ...