Path to Follow Podcast: Recent Episodes
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The Path to Follow (PTF) Podcast features teacher and coach, Jake Scott, and his conversations with people of purpose. Beginning with faculty members at Gilman School in Baltimore, Maryland, Jake seeks to discover the inspirations, motivations, and passions of his guests.
Cesare Ciccanti is the producer of the Path to Follow Podcast and the multimedia support specialist at Gilman School. //
On Episode #170 (the final episode!) of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Cesare discuss their three years working on the podcast, cross-country podcasting, 'The Millionaire Next Door' by Thomas J. Stanley and William D. Danko (1996), RV trips, and Chris from 'Northern Exposure.' //
All episodes of the Path to Follow Podcast are available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts. //
Thank you to Cesare Ciccanti for all of his time and energy on the Path to Follow Podcast. //
Margaret Brooks '24 is a senior at Roland Park Country School and will attend the College of Charleston in the fall. //
On Episode #169 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Margaret discuss attending RPCS and Towson HS, the co-ed versus all-girls' model, the College of Charleston, architecture, American studies, and Margaret's book recommendation, 'The Secret History' by Donna Tartt (1992). //
All episodes of the Path to Follow Podcast are available on YouTube, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and Apple Podcasts. //
Thank you to our producer, Mr. Cesare Ciccanti. //
Tyler Axilbund '24 is a senior at Gilman School. He will attend Tulane University in the fall. //
On Episode #168 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Tyler talk about Tyler's encounter experience with the Baltimore Police Department, joining the military, ROTC at Tulane University, wrestling and athletics at Gilman, favorite Gilman traditions, New Orleans, 1960s literature, and Tyler's book recommendation: 'Cat's Cradle' by Kurt Vonnegut (1963). //
All episodes of the Path to Follow Podcast are available on YouTube, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and Apple Podcasts. //
Thank you to our producer, Mr. Cesare Ciccanti. //
Gordon Sheckells '25 is a junior at Gilman School. //
On Episode #167, Jake and Gordon discuss junior year, how students bond in class, St. James Academy in Monkton, Maryland, J.D. Salinger's The Catcher in the Rye (1951), Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby (1925), Gordon's experience at Gilman, climbing the Grand Teton, college lacrosse predictions, and Gordon's book recommendation: Fearless by Adam Blehm (2013). //
This episode is dedicated to Benjamin Christopher Brandenburg '25 for his unconquerable spirit, unrelenting positivity, courage, and love for Gilman. //
All episodes of the Path to Follow Podcast are available on Youtube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts. //
Thank you to our producer, Mr. Cesare Ciccanti. //
Melissa Da is a librarian in the Lower School at Gilman School. //
On Episode #166 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Melissa discuss summer reading in the Lower School, picture books, becoming a librarian, growing up in Paris, favorite children's books, and Melissa's book recommendation, and 'How Do You Spell Unfair' by Carole Boston Weatherford (2023). //
All episodes are available on Youtube, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and Apple Podcasts. //
Thank you to our producer, Mr. Cesare Ciccanti. //
Justin Baker is a singer-songwriter, English teacher, college counselor, and baseball coach at Gilman School. He will become the Chair of the English Department in the fall of 2024. //
On Episode #165 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Justin discuss songwriting, "Sonny's Blues" by James Baldwin, how music connects people, Justin's senior elective on songwriting, 'How to Write One Song' by Jeff Tweedy, 'White Tears' by Hari Kunzru (2017), cultural appropriation, the 1960s, Henry David Thoreau, and moving on from college counseling. //
All episodes of the Path to Follow Podcast are available on Youtube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts. //
Thank you to our producer, Mr. Cesare Ciccanti. //
Sloane Wehman '24 is a senior at Bryn Mawr School. She will attend Stanford University in the fall of 2024. //
On Episode #164 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Sloane discuss gym drill at Bryn Mawr School, the rigors of ballet, the meaning of "hubris" in the ancient v. modern worlds, social media negatives, 'Walden' by Henry David Thoreau (1854), the Light Phone, fame and celebrity, and Sloane's book recommendations, 'Inferno' by Dante Alighieri (1321), 'The 48 Laws of Power' by Robert Greene (1998), and 'A Clockwork Orange' by Anthony Burgess (1962). //
All episodes of the Path to Follow Podcast are available on Youtube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts. //
Thank you to our producer, Mr. Cesare Ciccanti. //
William Jackson is a middle school language arts teacher, football coach, and Cooper Penn Fellow at Gilman School. //
On Episode #163 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Will discuss Will's inquiry project at Penn's Graduate School of Education, critical consciousness in the middle school language arts classroom, 'Animal Farm' by George Orwell and "The Lottery" by Shirley Jackson, and Will's book recommendation, 'Talking to My Daughter About the Economy, or How Capitalism Works - and How It Fails' by Yanis Varoufakis (2018). //
All episodes of the Path to Follow Podcast are available on Youtube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts. //
Thank you to our producer, Mr. Cesare Ciccanti. //
Zachary Minkin '24 is the editor-in-chief of the Gilman News, dedicated member of Mock Trial and Model UN, water polo and golf athlete, future University of Virginia Wahoo, and senior leader at Gilman School. //
On Episode #162 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Zach discuss the afternoon schedule, the Gilman News, leadership at Gilman, "hot takes," phones and technology at Gilman, what Zach will miss most about Gilman, and 'And Then There Were None' by Agatha Christie (1939). //
All episodes of the Path to Follow Podcast are available on Youtube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts. //
Thank you to our producer, Mr. Cesare Ciccanti. //
Patrick Hastings is the Chair of the English Department at Gilman School. //
On Episode #161 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Patrick discuss Herman Melville's 'Moby Dick,' writing poetry and short stories, the Library of Congress, and what both Jake and Patrick will miss about Gilman School. //
All episodes of the Path to Follow Podcast are available on Youtube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. //
Thank you to our producer, Mr. Cesare Ciccanti. //
Adam Schutsky '24 is a drummer, kite flyer, and frisbee player at Gilman School. //
On Episode #160 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Adam discuss college plans, playing the drum, jazz band at Gilman, flying kites, throwing the disc, urban planning, and Adam's book recommendation, 'Not in My Neighborhood' by Antero Pietila (2010). //
All episodes of the Path to Follow Podcast are available on Youtube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts. //
Thank you to our producer, Mr. Cesare Ciccanti. //
Steve "Lightning" Krulevitz is the varsity tennis coach at Gilman School. //
On Episode #159 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Lightning discuss varsity tennis at Gilman, pickleball, meditation, 'Manhunt 'on AppleTV, and General Ulysses S. Grant.
All episodes of the Path to Follow Podcast are available on Youtube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. //
Thank you to our producer, Mr. Cesare Ciccanti. //
"I'm fascinated by the concept of belonging and our drive as human beings to belong." //
“The past is never dead. It's not even past.” - William Faulkner //
Barbara Black is a distinguished professor at Skidmore College and the Tisch Chair in Arts and Letters. She earned her AB from Bryn Mawr College and both her MA and PhD from the University of Virginia. During the summers, Barbara brings her expertise to Middlebury's Bread Loaf School of English where she leads students through the complexities of the Victorian era, the nineteenth-century British novel, and the world of ghosts and spirits in a course called “Haunted.” //
Barbara is also the author of multiple books, including A Room of His Own (2012), which delves into Victorian Clubland and the role gentlemen's clubs played in nation-building. //
On Episode #158 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Barbara discuss an Irish literature course at Skidmore College, Barbara's research on gentlemen's clubs in Victorian England, A Room of His Own (2012), being a "happy warrior," ghosts and the past, generative A.I., and studying the humanities on college campuses. //
All episodes are available on Youtube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. //
Thank you to our producer, Mr. Cesare Ciccanti. //
Scott Van Zile is the head football coach and dean at Gilman School. //
On Episode #157 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Scott discuss traveling to Sicily, implementing culture on the Gilman football team, Scott's coaching experiences, the link between discipline and success, and 'Legacy' by James Kerr. //
All Path to Follow Podcast episodes are available on Youtube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts. //
Thank you to our producer, Mr. Cesare Ciccanti. //
James Howard '24 is a senior at Gilman School. He is actively involved in student government, Model UN, Mock Trial, and various extracurriculars on campus. //
On Episode #156 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Jamie discuss brothers and birth order, David Foster Wallace, Infinite Jest (1996), "Good Old Neon," the portrayal of Harry S. Truman in Oppenheimer, extracurricular activities Jamie is involved with at Gilman, the U.S. Senate Youth Program, and The Secret History by Donna Tartt (1992). //
All Path to Follow Podcast episodes are available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts //
Thank you to our producer, Mr. Cesare Ciccanti. //
Isaac Mitchell '24 is a senior at Gilman School. He will attend the University of Virginia next year, where he will play squash. //
On Episode #155 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Issac discuss playing squash, the recruiting process, traveling to Argentina, the University of Virginia, and Isaac's book recommendation, 'The Da Vinci Code' by Dan Brown (2003). //
All episodes of the Path to Follow Podcast are available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts. //
Thank you to our producer, Mr. Cesare Ciccanti. //
David Netzer '24 is a senior at Gilman School. Next year, he will attend Colgate University in Hamilton, NY. //
On Episode #154 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and David discuss surrealist artists such as René Magritte and Salvador Dalí, Colgate University and the college admissions process, memories at Gilman School, sports broadcasting with GTV, and David's book recommendation, 'Legacy' by James Kerr (2013). //
All episodes of the Path to Follow Podcast are available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts. //
Thank you to our producer, Mr. Cesare Ciccanti. //
Mason Murphy-Lenk '24 is a water polo player, aspiring pilot, singer, senior, and true Renaissance Man at Gilman School in Baltimore, Maryland. //
On Episode #153 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Mason discuss becoming a pilot, Chesley "Sully" Sullenberger, leadership on the water polo team, the Traveling Men, 'Brave New World' by Aldous Huxley (1932), and Mason's book recommendation, 'Watchmen' by Alan Moore (1986). //
All episodes of the Path to Follow Podcast are available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts. //
Thank you to our producer, Mr. Cesare Ciccanti. //
Finn Tondro '24 is a senior at Gilman School. He is headed to Harvard University next year. //
On Episode #152 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Finn discuss 'Middlemarch' by George Eliot, playing the horn, college applications, studying history, and Finn's book recommendation, 'Theoderic the Great' by Hans-Ulrich Wiemer (2023). //
All episodes of the Path to Follow Podcast are available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts. //
Thank you to our producer, Mr. Cesare Ciccanti. //
Leon Zhang '24 is a senior at Gilman School in Baltimore, Maryland. //
On Episode #151 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Leon discuss senior year, Global Online Academy, what Leon would like to study in college, Buddhism and meditation, trips to China, writing college essays, 'The Snake Charmer' by Jean-Léon Gérôme, what Leon is looking forward to, liminality, and Leon's book recommendation, 'Orientalism' by Edward Said (1978). //
All Path to Follow Podcasts are available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts. //
Thank you to our producer, Mr. Cesare Ciccanti. //
Arnisha Royston is a poet and the Tickner Writing Fellow at Gilman School in Baltimore, MD. //
On Episode #150 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Arnisha discuss the writing process, "chasing your voice," Yusef Komunyakaa, how to write something good, the relationship between music and poetry, and Arnisha's book recommendations, 'Ordinary Beast' by Nicole Sealey (2017), 'The Tradition' by Jerico Brown (2019), and 'Incarnadine' by Mary Szybist (2013). //
All Path to Follow Podcast episodes are available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts. //
Thank you to our producer, Mr. Cesare Ciccanti. //
Laura Robertson is the Dean of Academics and an American studies teacher at St. Anne's Belfield School in Charlottesville, Virginia. She was selected as a National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) "Teacher of the Future" in 2014. //
On Episode #149 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Laura discuss Laura's elective "21st century Citizenship," St. Anne's Belfield, teaching American studies, utilizing media in the classroom, ChatGPT and traditional history papers, productive struggle, attending the Francis Parker School, how education has changed, and Laura's book recommendation: 'Seek: How Curiosity' by Scott Shigeoka (2023).
All podcasts are available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts.
Thank you to our producer, Mr. Cesare Ciccanti. //
Nick Lutzky '24 is a senior at Gilman School. He is headed to Dartmouth College in the fall of 2024. //
On Episode #148 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Nick discuss Dartmouth College, senior year, rock climbing, Frank Sinatra, learning the guitar, 'The Myth of Sisyphus' by Albert Camus (1942), swimming and water polo, and 'Capitalist Realism' by Mark Fisher (2009). //
All episodes are available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts. //
Thank you to our producer, Mr. Cesare Ciccanti. //
David "Brooks" Kitchel '24 is a senior at Gilman School. He is an aspiring lawyer headed to Bowdoin College next year, where he will play lacrosse. //
On Episode #147, Jake and Brooks discuss Bowdoin College, recovering from two ACL injuries, Division I versus Division III lacrosse, the mock trial team at Gilman, what constitutes a "classic" text, 'The Stranger' by Albert Camus (1942), John Grisham and 'A Time to Kill' (1989), reading for pleasure, student choice in curriculum, and the First Amendment, Elon Musk and Twitter (X), and censorship. //
All Path to Follow Podcasts are available on Youtube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts.
Thank you to our producer, Mr. Cesare Ciccanti. //
Abena Opare '24 is a senior at Bryn Mawr School in Baltimore, Maryland. //
On Episode #146 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Abena discuss creative writing, Abena's background in dance, the Bridges Program at Gilman and Bryn Mawr, and Abena's book recommendation, 'The Color Purple' by Alice Walker (1982). //
All episodes of the Path to Follow Podcast are available on Spotify, YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts. //
Thank you to our producer, Mr. Cesare Ciccanti. //
Michael Molina is the Director of Community, Inclusion, and Equity at Gilman School. //
On Special Topics Episode #5, Jake and Michael Molina discuss their experiences attending Harvard University and Yale Law School, affirmative action, merit and diversity, and composing your own story. //
Many thanks to the producer, Cesare Ciccanti. //
John "Jack" Stuzin '20 is a junior student-athlete at Yale University. He is a history major and long-stick midfielder on the Men's Lacrosse Team. //
On Episode #145 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Jack discuss waking up early, Jack's off-season lacrosse schedule, projections for the 2024 NCAA season, being a student-athlete, Yale Lacrosse, transitioning from HS to college athletics, Coach Andy Shay, studying history, the Egyptian pyramids, and 'Make Your Bed' by Admiral William H. McRaven. //
All episodes of the Path to Follow Podcast are available on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. //
Thank you to our producer, Mr. Cesare Ciccanti. //
Jesse Zhong '24 is a senior at Gilman School. //
On Episode #144 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Jesse discuss meteorology and weather, experiences at Yellowstone National Park, senior year and writing college essays, Gilman News, 'Ulysses' and 'Dubliners' by James Joyce, and Jesse's book recommendation, 'Into Thin Air' by Jon Krakauer (1997). //
Thank you to our producer, Mr. Cesare Ciccanti. //
"Do you think this is the most interesting time in American history to be alive, and if not, is there another era you would have liked to live in?" //
Annie Ogden is a history and American studies teacher at Greenwich Country Day School in Greenwich, CT. //
On Episode #143 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Annie discuss coaching soccer, school policies, college admissions, networking, support systems, teaching American history, "safe spaces," running and mental well-being, movies versus TV series, the role of music in the classroom, and Annie's book recommendations, 'The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo' by Taylor Jenkins Reid (2017) and 'White Oleander' by Janet Fitch (1999). //
All episodes are available on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. //
Thank you to our podcast producer, Mr. Cesare Ciccanti. //
Ben Ledyard '31 is a reader, musician, athlete, woodworker, brother, and fifth grader at Gilman School. //
On Episode #142 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Ben discuss reading habits, Ben's favorite classes and teachers, travel goals, future jobs, woodworking projects, Baltimore restaurants, brotherhood, pet peeves, and Ben's book recommendations: 'The Westing Game' by Ellen Raskin (1978) and 'Shoe Dog' by Phil Knight (2016). //
All podcasts are available on Youtube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. //
Thank you to our producer, Mr. Cesare Ciccanti. //
William Lam is a first year teacher at Gilman School, Penn Fellow, and recent Colgate graduate. //
On Episode #141 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Will discuss the "portrait of a learner" assignment, boarding versus independent schools, Matt Baum's mentorship, teaching US history, Lawrence, Massachusetts, replacing Andrew Jackson on the $20, Titus Kaphar's paintings, history as story-telling, and Will's book recommendations, 'Silencing the Past' by Michel-Rolph Trouillot (1995) and 'The Great Cat Massacre' by Robert Darnton (1984). //
All episode are available on Youtube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. //
Thank you to our producer, Mr. Cesare Ciccanti. //
"You are complex. You aren't just one thing." //
Charlotte Peake '24 is the all-school president at Bryn Mawr School. //
On Episode #140 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Charlotte discuss Charlotte's senior year, the movie Inside Out, Charlotte's senior speech, technology and social media, what it's like to be all-school president, Bryn Mawr's "moment of silence," comparing yourself to other people, Charlotte's favorite part of Bryn Mawr, sibling relationships, the influence of Taylor Swift, and 'The Midnight Library' (2020) by Matt Haig. //
All episodes of the Path to Follow Podcast can be found on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. //
Thank you to our producer, Mr. Cesare Ciccanti. //
Mabel Koff '24 is a senior at Bryn Mawr School, a competitive swimmer, and a future Yale University Bulldog. //
On Episode #139 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Mabel discuss Mabel's life as a swimmer, the pros & cons of social media, the ideal way to spend a birthday, memorable trips, what constitutes "the great American novel," and Mabel's book recommendations: 'The Nightingale' by Kristin Hannah (2015) and 'To Kill a Mockingbird' by Harper Lee (1960). //
All episodes are available on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. //
Thank you to our producer, Mr. Cesare Ciccanti. //
John Stauffer is a professor of English, American studies, and African American studies at Harvard University. He writes and lectures on the Civil War, anti-slavery, social protest movements, and photography. Stauffer is also the author of 20 books and over 100 articles, which focus on Civil War-era leaders, antislavery, social protest, and photography. GIANTS: The Parallel Lives of Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln (2008) was a national bestseller. //
On Episode 138 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Professor Stauffer discuss teaching "the impending crisis" of the Civil War to students, John Brown's leadership, the rise of Abraham Lincoln, the Lincoln-Douglas debates, leaders during the Civil War period, why students should study American history, Professor Stauffer's biography on Charles Sumner, and consulting for director Quentin Tarantino on Django Unchained (2012). //
All episodes are available on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. //
Thank you to our producer, Mr. Cesare Ciccanti. //
"One of the things I loved most about Gilman was that the school forced us to write - and to write in many different ways." //
Rishi Bedi '13 is the CEO of Y-Trap, a biotechnology company focused on the development of revolutionary technologies for cancer immunotherapy. //
On Episode #137 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Rishi discuss Y-Trap and the promises of immunotherapy, Rishi's background in biology and computer science, When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi, artificial intelligence and machine learning, classes and professors at Stanford University, the importance of the humanities, Rishi's experience at Gilman, and Rishi's book recommendations, When We Cease to Understand the World by Benjamin Labatut (2020) and Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents by Isabel Wilkerson (2020). //
Thank you to our talented producer, Mr. Cesare Ciccanti. //
"We need to teach young people how to discriminate the best they can between the real and the fake." //
Dr. Jonathan Zimmerman a professor at the University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education and one of the leading education historians today. His work examines where political and social movements intersect with teaching and learning. His most recent books are 'The Amateur Hour' (2020) and 'Whose America?: Culture Wars in the Public Schools' (2002). //
On Episode #136 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Professor Zimmerman discuss teaching history to students, John Quincy Adams and the gag rule, free speech in early America, ChatGPT and artificial intelligence in the classroom, and the courses Professor Zimmerman is currently teaching at Penn. //
Thank you to our producer, Mr. Cesare Ciccanti. //
"Teaching is such a full life." //
Chris Legg '67 is a former middle school English teacher and wrestling coach at Gilman School. //
On Episode #135 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Chris discuss life in retirement, George Washington, sailing, memories from attending Gilman, Headmaster Redmond C.S. Finney, Chris's experience in journalism and his transition to teaching, Robert Penn Warren, and Chris's book recommendation, 'Washington: A Life' by Ron Chernow.
Thank you to our producer, Mr. Cesare Ciccanti, for his production work. //
"To be ignorant of what occurred before you were born is to remain always a child." - Marcus Tullius Cicero //
Bhelly Bagnobon is a history teacher at Haverford School in Haverford, PA. He is also a Conestoga High School alum, Division I college lacrosse official, and talented youth lacrosse coach. //
On Episode #134, Jake and Bhelly discuss teaching US history, Bhelly's "sophomore campaign" at the Haverford School, Andrew Jackson and John Quincy Adams, tangents and analogies, Jean Piaget, trends in the lacrosse world, and Bhelly's book recommendations, 'Don't Know Much About History' (1990) by Kenneth C. Davis and 'The Souls of Black Folk' (1903) by W.E.B. Du Bois. //
Thank you, Cesare Ciccanti, for the technological assistance. //
"[Running] is just this state of being..." //
Skylar Carr '24 is a senior at Roland Park Country School. She is an avid cross country runner, squash player, and podcaster. Her podcast is called All About You and can be found on Spotify. //
On Episode #133 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Skylar discuss Skylar's podcast 'All About You,' what empowerment and wellness mean, cross country and running, Mr. Ledyard's Literary Letters class, the Tao, skiing and growing up in Utah, Patrick Donohue's influence, and Skylar's book recommendation, 'Cutting for Stone' (2009) by Abraham Verghese. //
All podcasts are available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify. //
Thank you to Mr. Cesare Ciccanti for his time and masterful podcast production skills. //
Kenan Ulku-Steiner is a Penn Fellow and Upper School Spanish teacher at Gilman School. A North Carolinian and semi-pro pickleball player, Kenan recently graduated from Middlebury College, where he played soccer. He now coaches JV soccer and tennis at Gilman. //
On Episode #132 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Kenan discuss coaching and playing soccer, Middlebury College, Kenan's experiences abroad, grant-writing in Warsaw, the Penn Fellowship, moving to Baltimore, coaching JV soccer, and Kenan's book recommendation, 'The Overstory' by Richard Powers (2018). //
To enjoy more Path to Follow Podcasts, please check out our episodes on Spotify, Google Podcasts, and Apple Podcasts. //
Thank you to Cesare Ciccanti, our producer! //
On Episode #131 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake speaks with two Gilman legends, Mr. Timmy Holley '77 and Mr. Dan Christian. //
Mr. Christian is a current teacher in the English department, and has held many roles over his career, including head football and basketball coach, Director of Athletics, and Director of External Relations. //
Dan Christian is a long-time Gilman English teacher, basketball coach, advisor, mentor, and expert on Dante Alighieri's 'The Divine Comedy.' //
Thank you to the producer of the podcast, often known as "The Wizard," Mr. Cesare Ciccanti. //
Nick Pitruzzella is an athletic trainer and physical education teacher at Gilman School. //
On Episode #130 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Nick discuss working in a sports medicine office, the class Nick teaches at Gilman, teaching about the effects of alcohol, single-sport athletes, injuries, 'Caste: The Origins of Our Discontent' by Isabel Wilkerson (2020). //
Find this podcast on all platforms, including YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. //
Thank you to our producer, Mr. Cesare Ciccanti. //
"The literal flesh of history is around us right now." //
Michael Molina is the Director of Community, Equity, and Inclusion at Gilman School and former Head of School at Bishop John T. Walker School for Boys in Washington, D.C. //
On Episode #129 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Mike discuss Mike's transition from Head of School at Bishop John T. Walker School for Boys back to Gilman, community initiatives at Gilman, Winthrop's "City Upon a Hill" speech, cancel culture in America, P. G. T. Beauregard, Mark Twain, and Mike's book: 'No Such Thing as a Slave.' //
All episodes can be found on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts. //
Thank you to our brilliant podcast producer, Mr. Cesare Ciccanti! //
Brian Ledyard is the Head of the Upper School at Gilman School. //
On Episode #128 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Brian and Jake discuss Brian's new role as the Head of the Upper School, changes in the afternoon schedule, being a father, banning the Euro step in intramural basketball, selections for a Gillman Faculty Basketball starting five, American naturalism, 'Salvage the Bones' by Mac Miller, and Brian's book recommendations, 'In the Distance' and 'Trust' by Hernan Diaz. //
Listen to the Path to Follow Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Youtube. //
Thank you to Cesare Ciccanti, the savviest, most dedicated podcast producer in Baltimore. //
"A poem is not a retelling of an experience. A good poem is an experience." //
"If you want to see what John Berryman is about, go on YouTube and look up 'Dream Song 14' and watch him reading it." //
Sam Cheney is a Pushcart Prize-winning poet and teacher from Centerville, Utah. He is the Reginald S. Tickner Tickner Writing Fellow at Gilman School. //
On Episode #127 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Sam discuss style in writing, 'Blacks' by Gwendolyn Brooks, W.S. Merwin's poems "Berryman" and "Separation," John Berryman, teaching poetry, passion in the creative process, "Thinking About Having a Child While My House is Flooding," 'Jesus' Son' by Denis Johnson, "Senior Speech," and Lucille Clifton's poem, "blessing the boats."
Thank you to our producer, Mr. Cesare Ciccanti. //
"That's what I love about the field of medicine: it's both an art and a science." //
"If you're not sleeping well, you're not performing well." //
"For me, focused ultrasound is a tool that can help us temporarily access those cells, and do it in a way that's gentle and controlled and targeted to the regions where we know those cells may be hiding behind the cloak of the blood-brain barrier. And so, if we can temporarily open that barrier and get therapeutics to go in, and get those cells before they become recurrent tumor: to me, that's the Holy Grail." //
Dr. Graeme Woodworth is a dedicated and visionary neurosurgeon leading brain tumor treatment and research at the University of Maryland. He leads a diverse team to improve brain tumor treatment and outcomes. Through innovative research and advanced technologies, he aims to revolutionize our understanding and care for brain tumors. Additionally, he takes pride in being the father of Luke Woodworth, Class of 2023, who appeared as a guest on Episode #121 . //
On Episode #126 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Graeme discuss the beauty of tennis, 'String Theory' by David Foster Wallace, 'Range: Why Generalists Triumph in a Specialized World' by David Epstein, creativity in medicine, Graeme's experience with sailing, neurosurgery, Graeme's daily routine, meditation, building and leading teams, cultivating trust and resiliency, common conflicts that arise in the medical world, focused ultrasound and other advanced medical technologies, and Graeme's book recommendation: 'Traction: Get a Grip on Your Business' by Gino Wickman (2007). //
Episodes are available on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. Thank you to our producer, Mr. Cesare Ciccanti. //
Jim Morrison is a science teacher at Gilman School. He will retire at the end of the 2022-23 school year. //
On Episode #125 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Jim discuss J. Robert Oppenheimer, the Manhattan Project, how social media divides us, artificial intelligence, alternative realities, what goes on in the Gilman Science Department, residual effects of Covid-19, growing up on Long Island, Gettysburg College, what Jim is looking forward to in retirement, how Gilman has changed over the years, and Jim's book recommendation: 'American Prometheus: The Triumph and Tragedy of J. Robert Oppenheimer' by Kai Bird (2006). //
Available on all platforms. Thank you to our producer, Cesare Ciccanti. //
Rob Heubeck is in his final year as the Head of the Upper School at Gilman School. //
On Episode #124 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Rob discuss Rob's new podcast called Raw Justice, the atmosphere of Gilman in May, ChatGPT, second semester seniors, Rob's senior elective on urban development, cities that are "on the rise," Albert Camus and absurdism, where Rob is off too post-Gilman, what is special about Gilman, and Albert Camus' 'The Stranger' (1942). //
Thank you to our producer, Mr. Cesare Ciccanti. //
Noah Parker '23 is a senior at Gilman School. He will attend Harvard University in the fall. //
On Episode #123 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Noah discuss the Penn Relays, what it is like being the youngest of four brothers, team bonding experiences, the importance of lifting and diet for track athletes, senior year at Gilman, the college application process, the mentoring program, advice for underclassmen, and Noah's book recommendation: 'How Do You Live?' by Yoshino Genzaburō (1937).
Thank you to Mr. Cesare Ciccanti, our producer. //
Grace Daniels '23 is a senior at Roland Park Country School. She will attend Tulane University in the fall. //
On Episode #122 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Grace discuss wrapping up senior year, Grace's interest in the military, ROTC at Tulane University, student government at RPCS, biology, Walter Isaacson, going to high school during COVID, podcast guest recommendations, and Grace's book recommendation, 'Tuesdays with Morrie' by Mitch Albom (1997). //
All episodes are available on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. //
Thank you to our producer, Mr. Cesare Ciccanti. //
"Every artist's work is a product of their vision." //
Luke Woodworth '23 is a dedicated student, talented landscape artist, and Stanford-bound sailor who is currently a senior at Gilman School. //
On Episode #121 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Luke discuss attending Stanford next year, generalists versus specialists, plans for the summer, starting the sailing team at Gilman, Mr. Connelly and the art program at Gilman, landscape paintings, painting what you see, the chess phenomenon, artificial intelligence, "When will you know that you've made it?," and Luke's book recommendation, 'Range: Why Generalists Triumph in a Specialized World' by David Epstein (2019). //
All podcasts are available on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. //
Thank you to our producer, Mr. Cesare Ciccanti. //
"What is it that makes coaches really successful?" //
"If you have an open shot and you don't take it, it's actually selfish." //
Owen Daly is the Director of Admissions at Gilman School. //
On Episode #120 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Owen discuss the admissions process at Gilman, the Machiavellian element of a good coach, Phil Jackson's Zen philosophy, Coach Bartz, winning the 50/50 balls, Lightning (Gilman's tennis coach), playing multiple sports, car rides with kids, Pandora's algorithm, Bruce Springsteen, Greyhound TV, recommendations for upcoming guests, and Owen's book recommendation: 'Sacred Hoops' by Phil Jackson (1995). //
Thank you to our producer, Cesare Ciccanti. //
Ben Weinfeld '23 is the president of the student body at Gilman School. He will attend Wake Forest University in the fall of 2023. //
On Episode #119 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Ben discuss what it means to be the president of the student body, traditions at Gilman, what defines the Gilman Class of 2023, Mr. Hasting's 'Ulysses' class, what being a teenager is like today, Ben's time as a student at Gilman, visiting and being admitted to Wake Forest University, Ben's junk removal business called "410 Haulers," short attention spans, and Ben's book recommendation: 'Thinking Fast and Slow' by Daniel Kahneman (2011). //
Thank you to the producer of the Path to Follow Podcast, Mr. Cesare Ciccanti. //
Elise Purcell '23 is a senior at Bryn Mawr School. She will attend Washington University in St. Louis, MO in the fall of 2023. //
On Episode #118 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Elise discuss senior year at Bryn Mawr School, the Ethics Bowl club, participating in theatre, Gym Drill and other traditions at Bryn Mawr, swimming, CorePower yoga, Elise's decision to attend WashU, travels to Australia and New Zealand, biomedical engineering, artificial intelligence, and Elise's book recommendation, 'Frankenstein' by Mary Shelley (1818). //
Thank you to Cesare Ciccanti, our producer. //
Emmitt Sherlock '24 is a Gilman student, talented graphic designer, photographer, 2023 Maryland State Champion, NHSCA National Champion, and 3x National Prep All-American in wrestling. //
On Episode #117 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Emmitt discuss graphic design, "committed posts," photography, video editing, the current state of Gilman athletics, a day in the life of a wrestler, the purpose of cutting weight, Emmitt's brother Tyson, Coach Bryn Holmes, what Emmitt likes most about daily life at Gilman, smelling "blood in the water," masculinity and "what aspects of masculinity should be passed down to the next generation," and Emmitt's book recommendation, 'Things Fall Apart' by Chinua Achebe. //
Thank you to the producer of the Path to Follow Podcast, Mr. Cesare Ciccanti. All episodes are available on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. //
Peter Becker is in his final year as the 11th Head of School at The Frederick Gunn School in Washington, CT. A native of New Orleans and Manhattan, Peter attended The Taft School in Watertown, CT, and will begin his appointment as Head of School at Taft in the 2023-24 school year. Peter holds a Bachelor of Arts degree with distinction in religious studies from the University of Virginia and a master’s degree in history from Yale University. //
On Episode #116 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Peter discuss why Taft is special, Frederick Gunn, getting cut from the soccer team, philosophy of education, habit formation in humans, technology in schools, ChatGPT, the legacy of Willy MacMullen at Taft, returning to Taft School, Peter's love of history, and Peter's book recommendation, 'Mediated: How the Media Shapes Your World and the Way You Live In It' by Thomas de Zengotita (2005). //
Find all episodes of the Path to Follow Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts.
Thank you to our producer, Mr. Cesare Ciccanti. //
“'You don’t have to prove anything,' my mother said. 'Just be ready for what God sends.'” -- William Stafford //
"If I feel physically as if the top of my head were taken off, I know that is poetry. These are the only ways I know it. Is there any other way?” -- Emily Dickinson //
"It's hard not to believe that poetry is a part of life." //
"If I'm writing about something, I try to make myself a foreigner to that space....to see things as wonderful that I might see as regular." //
Dolapo Demuren is a poet and a doctorate student in educational leadership. He has taught every grade level but ninth grade. //
On Episode #115 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Dolapo discuss teaching every grade level, Saint Ann's School in Brookyln, 'The Menu' (2022), the importance of the arts, "The Day Lady Died" by Frank O'Hara, the "flow state" of poetry, Vincent van Gogh, Gwendolyn Brooks, committing poetry to memory, William Stafford's poetry, and some poems Dolapo is working on. //
Thank you to our producers, Mr. Cesare Ciccanti. //
"Boys schools provide their students with the opportunities to step into spaces that they might not in a co-ed environment." //
"We talk often [at Haverford] about the Three As: Academics, Athletics, and Arts." //
Tyler Casertano is the 10th Head of School at Haverford School in Haverford, PA. He spent twelve years in various positions at St. Albans School in Washington D.C. -- most recently as as the Assistant Head of School for Advancement and Strategy. Tyler graduated from Yale University, where he studied history and played lacrosse. //
On Episode #114 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Tyler discuss Tyler's appointment as the 10th Head of School at Haverford, different paths to success, how Haverford separates itself in the Greater Philadelphia Area, The Three As, opportunities to develop leadership skills, 'This is Water' by David Foster Wallace, and Tyler's book recommendation: 'East of Eden' by John Steinbeck (1952). //
Thank you to our worthy and devoted producer, Mr. Cesare Ciccanti. //
Dr. Scott Peeples is a professor at College of Charleston in Charleston, SC. He is the leading expert on Edgar Allan Poe in the United States, and has published extensively on Poe and other nineteenth-century writers, most recently as author of 'The Man of the Crowd' (2020) and as co-editor of 'The 'Oxford Handbook of Edgar Allan Poe' (2019). //
On Episode #113 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Dr. Peeples discuss Edgar Allan Poe's life, the cities he lived in, the myths surrounding Poe today, Poe's relationship with his foster father John Allan, College of Charleston, and Dr. Peeple's book: 'The Man of the Crowd' (2020). //
Order 'The Man of the Crowd' by Dr. Scott Peeples: https://www.amazon.com/Man-Crowd-Edga... //
Thank you to our loyal and trusted producer, Cesar Ciccanti. //
Andrew Kang is a senior at Gilman School. He is passionate about poetry, linguistics, and environmental sustainability, and will attend Harvard University in the fall of 2023. //
On Episode #112 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Andrew discuss writing poetry, environmental sustainability and Sunrise Movement, applying and being admitted to Harvard, Kenyon Review Young Writers Workshops, Andrew's poem: "Buzzcut," "A Rabbit as King of the Ghosts" by Wallace Stevens, and Andrew's book recommendations: 'A Poetry Handbook' by Mary Oliver (1994) and 'The Next American Revolution' by Grace Lee Boggs (2011). //
Read Andrew's poem, "Buzzcut," here: https://www.narrativemagazine.com/issues/winter-2022/narrative-high-school-writing-contest/buzzcut-andrew-kang //
Read Jake's recommended poem, "A Rabbit as King of the Ghosts" by Wallace Stevens, here: https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poetrymagazine/poems/21816/a-rabbit-as-king-of-the-ghosts
Thank you to our loyal and talented producer, Cesare Ciccanti. //
Elise Altschuler is a fifth grade teacher at Gilman School. Before coming to Gilman, she taught lower school at Park School and Greenwich Academy. Elise graduated from Kenyon College, where she studied psychology and played tennis. //
On the Path to Follow Podcast Episode #111, Jake and Elise discuss teaching lower school students at Gilman, playing tennis at Kenyon College, classes in psychology, and Elise's book recommendation: 'The Great Alone' by Kristin Hannah (2017). //
Enjoy the episode? Please follow @pathtofollowpod on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Instagram, Twitter, and more. //
A special thank you to our producer, Cesare Ciccanti. //
"Not a lot of people know about the situation in Afghanistan..." //
"Hopefully I can be someone who can go to other countries and provide a medical service." //
Arezu Fayyazi '23 is a senior at Bryn Mawr School in Baltimore, Maryland. //
On Special Topics Episode #4, Jake and Arezu discuss Arezu's interest and research in child and maternal health, the Hazara minority group in Afghanistan, restrictions on education in Afghanistan, the Edith Hamilton project at BMS, Arezu's interview with Fereshteh Forough, the Bridges program, Arezu's goals for the future, and "The Kite Runner" by Khaled Hosseini (2003). //
Many thanks to the producer, Cesare Ciccanti. //
Aaron Goldman is a dean, religious studies and Holocaust studies teacher at Gilman School. //
On Episode #110 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Aaron discuss religious studies, the rise of Hitler and the Holocaust, baseball, Confucius and ancient Chinese philosophy, and Aaron's book recommendation, 'Empire of the Summer Moon' by S. C. Gwynne (2010). //
Enjoy the episode? Please follow @pathtofollowpod on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Instagram, Twitter, and more. //
A special thank you to our producer, Cesare Ciccanti. //
"Who am I hiring? Joyful people. What am I reading? Joyful books." //
"A lot of alums come back and want to teach or be a part of Hathaway Brown after they've left." //
Dr. Fran Bisselle is the 14th Head of School at Hathaway Brown School in Shaker Heights, Ohio. Prior to joining HB, she served for nine years as the Head of School at Maple Street School, a K - 8 independent school in Vermont. //
On Episode #109 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Fran discuss growing up in Philadelphia, sisters and siblings, the culture at Hathaway Brown, leadership at an all-girls' school, Fellowships for 21st Century Education, 10,000 hours in a classroom, mentorship during early years teaching, how competition and being a former athlete has enhanced Fran's career, what it is like to be a leader at an all girls' school, the amazing alumni network at HB, and Fran's book recommendations, 'The War for Kindness' by Jamil Zaki, 'The Positive Shift' by Catherine A. Sanderson, PhD, and 'The Upswing' by Robert D. Putnam. //
Enjoy the episode? Please follow @pathtofollowpod on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Instagram, Twitter, and more. //
A special thank you to our producer, Cesare Ciccanti. //
Bo Webster '23 is a senior at Gilman School. He plays ice hockey, lacrosse, and ping pong, and will attend College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, Massachusetts in the fall. //
On Episode #108 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Bo discuss Bo's senior year at Gilman School, Holy Cross, influences on Bo's athletic career, the club lacrosse landscape, the senior room, playing multiple sports, favorite movies, Bo's NCAA lacrosse final four projection, potential future guests, and Bo's book recommendation, 'Legacy' by James Kerr (2013).
Enjoy the episode? Please follow @pathtofollowpod on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Instagram, Twitter, and more. //
A special thank you to our producer, Cesare Ciccanti. //
Andy Chappell is the ninth Head of School at Derryfield School in Manchester, NH. He spent twenty five years at the Roxbury Latin School in West Roxbury, MA, where he served in a variety of roles: dedicated advisor, Latin and Greek teacher, baseball and soccer coach, Chair of the Classics Department, Director of Admission, Director of Studies, and most recently, Assistant Head for Program. //
On Episode #107 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Andy and Jake discuss Andy's journey to the Derryfield School, what Derryfield is like, support groups and mentorship, building community, the balance between tradition and innovation at independent schools, Roxbury Latin, leadership skills Andy picked up from valued mentors, advisory programs, technology and challenges of the 21st century, ChatGPT, Andy's habits of acquiring information, and some terrific book recommendations: 'Legacy' by James Kerr (2013), 'The Nightingale' by Kristin Hannah (2015), and 'The Power of Moments' by Chip Heath and Dan Heath (2017). //
Enjoy the episode? Please follow @pathtofollowpod on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Instagram, Twitter, and more. //
A special thank you to our producer, Cesare Ciccanti. //
"If you don't like my ideas, come up with your own." //
"School should be more like the way the world works." //
"Every day, I walk into class without the microphone, and I podcast." //
Edward Brown is an English teacher at Loyola Blakefield, semi-professional pickleballer, professional troll, and lifelong member of the Middlebury Bread Loaf School of English community. //
On Episode #106 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Edward discuss authenticity, strategies when teaching writing, technology in the classroom, sports literature, experiential memoir, the difference between emotion and empirical evidence as a sports fan, 'Heaven is a Playground,' writing about things you care about, issues facing teenagers today, and Edward's book recommendation, 'Switching Fields' by George Dohrmann (2022).
Enjoy the episode? Please follow @pathtofollowpod on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Instagram, Twitter, and more. //
A special thank you to our producer, Cesare Ciccanti. //
Camila Vasquez was born and raised Palo Alto, California. She holds a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from Mills College in Oakland, California, and a master’s degree in pure math from the University of Washington (Seattle). She currently teaches mathematics and advises the speech and debate team at Gilman School. //
On Episode #105 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Camila discuss snow in California, pursuing a master's degree in mathematics, Palo Alto High School (Paly), speech & debate exercises, constructing an argument, memorable teachers and professors, moving to Baltimore, weather and mental health, what Camila appreciates about Gilman, high-level mathematics, what "pure math" even is, 'The Muppet Christmas Carol,' Berkeley, and Camila's book recommendations: 'Gods of Jade and Shadow' (2019) by Silvia Moreno-Garcia and 'Strega Nona' by Tomie dePaola (1975).
Enjoy the episode? Please follow @pathtofollowpod on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Instagram, Twitter, and more. //
A special thank you to our producer, Cesare Ciccanti. //
"There are always silver linings in challenging times." //
"While structure and rigor are essential, encouragement is, too." //
Charlie Cahn '88 is the 25th Head of School at Suffield Academy in Suffield, CT. Since his appointment in 2004, Suffield has experienced unprecedented levels of admissions rates and fundraising successes. Charlie is a native of Baltimore, and he graduated from Gilman School in 1988. He then matriculated to the University of Michigan (and later, graduate school at Wesleyan University) prior to joining the faculty at Suffield as an English teacher and coach in 1992. //
On Episode #104 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Charlie discuss memories from Gilman, teachers and coaches who made an impact, the school spirit at the University of Michigan, correspondences with Redmond C.S. Finney, the structure, rigor and encouragement valued at Suffield Academy, senior speeches, fundraising and building at Suffield, studying the humanities, playing multiple sports, the role of a school's board of trustees, the bond between the head of school and the president of the board, and Charlie's book recommendation: 'Summers With Percy" by Redmond C.S. Finney (2002). //
Enjoy the episode? Please follow @pathtofollowpod on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Instagram, Twitter, and more. //
A special thank you to our producer, Cesare Ciccanti. //
"You can never be wrong approaching a situation and leading with kindness." //
"The true object of all human life is play. Earth is a task garden; heaven is a playground." - G.K. Chesterton //
Bartley Griffith is the President and alumnus of Shady Side Academy, a PK-12 independent day and boarding school in Pittsburgh. He has spent time as an administrator, teacher, and coach at Gilman School in Baltimore, Maryland, and The Westminster Schools in Atlanta, GA. //
On Episode #103 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Bart discuss social media and technology, Bart's entry into the world of education, leadership during Covid-19, reading and writing at Bread Loaf, Shady Side Academy's mission and guiding principles, leading with kindness, G.K. Chesterton, and Bart's book recommendation: 'Heaven is a Playground' by Rick Telander (1976). //
Enjoy the episode? Please follow @pathtofollowpod on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Instagram, Twitter, and more. //
A special thank you to our producer, Cesare Ciccanti. //
Anay Agarwal '23 is a talented portrait artist, a capella singer, and senior at Gilman School. He will attend Brown University in the fall. //
On Episode #102 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Anay discuss senior year of high school, participating in Gilman's a capella group "Traveling Men," painting portraits, artists who inspire him, his favorite aspects of Gilman, applying and getting admitted to Brown University, gardening, college essay topics and advice, and 'Beloved' by Toni Morrison (1987). //
Enjoy the episode? Please follow @pathtofollowpod on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Instagram, Twitter, and more. //
A special thank you to our producer, Cesare Ciccanti. //
Jeffrey Howard '23 is the biggest fan of the Path to Follow Podcast, a senior at Gilman School, and a flourishing mathematician. He will attend the University of Chicago in the fall. //
On Episode #101 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Jeffrey discuss Chi-town, why Wikipedia is an amazing source of information, machine learning and ChatGPT, Jeffrey's love for mathematics and interest in the Path to Follow Podcast, the college process, his prepared "questions for the interviewer," "When I Heard the Learn'd Astronomer" by Walt Whitman, and his book recommendation: 'Watchmen' by Alan Moore (1986). //
"When I Heard the Learn’d Astronomer"By Walt Whitman
When I heard the learn’d astronomer,When the proofs, the figures, were ranged in columns before me,When I was shown the charts and diagrams, to add, divide, and measure them,When I sitting heard the astronomer where he lectured with much applause in the lecture-room,How soon unaccountable I became tired and sick,Till rising and gliding out I wander’d off by myself,In the mystical moist night-air, and from time to time,Look’d up in perfect silence at the stars. //
Enjoy the episode? Please follow @pathtofollowpod on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Instagram, Twitter, and more. //
A special thank you to our producer, Cesare Ciccanti. //
"We are accountable to something much larger than ourselves." //
"Say 'hey.'" //
Henry P. A. Smyth is the 14th Head of School of Gilman School. //
On Episode #100 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Henry discuss Henry's roots in North Carolina, attending Phillips Academy Andover, the importance of saying 'hey,' attending Princeton University, traveling abroad in Prague, the most beautiful places in the world, character values instilled at Gilman, and Henry's book recommendation: 'A River Runs Through It' by Normal Maclean (1976). //
Enjoy the episode? Please follow @pathtofollowpod on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Instagram, Twitter, and more. //
A special thank you to our producer, Cesare Ciccanti. //
"Everyone looks like a floating duck at the surface." //
Annie Ogden is an American studies (history) teacher and dance instructor at Greenwich Country Day School in Greenwich, CT. She studied history and education at Dartmouth College. //
On Episode #99 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Annie discuss Alexander Hamilton, John Brown's dying words, 'Uncle Tom's Cabin' by Harriet Beecher Stowe (1852), girls' social dynamics, the idea of the "floating duck," how dance connects people, the "grit and grace" life motto, and 'These Truths' by Jill Lepore (2018). //
Enjoy the episode? Please follow @pathtofollowpod on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Instagram, Twitter, and more. //
A special thank you to our producer, Cesare Ciccanti. //
David Gaines '88 is graduate of Gilman School, Princeton University, and the McCombs School of Business at the University of Texas. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps on active duty for four years and spent seven years in the active Reserves. He currently serves as Vice President at Gaines and Co. Site Development in Reisterstown, MD, and has two sons with his wife, Katherine. //
Purchase 'The Purpose Driven Life: What on Earth Am I Here For?' by Rick Warren: https://www.amazon.com/Purpose-Driven-Life-What-Earth/dp/031033750X //
Enjoy the episode? Please follow @pathtofollowpod on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Instagram, Twitter, and more. //
A special thank you to our producer, Cesare Ciccanti. //
Francesca Polito '23 is a student at Bryn Mawr School and senior class president. //
On Episode #97 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Francesca discuss student government, mental health in high school sports, attending Bryn Mawr School, social media apps, and Francesca's book recommendation, 'Never Let Me Go' (2005) by Kazuo Ishiguro. //
Enjoy the episode? Please follow @pathtofollowpod on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Instagram, Twitter, and more. //
A special thank you to our producer, Cesare Ciccanti. //
"Dostoevsky is the novelist of depth. Tolstoy is the novelist of breadth." //
Michael R. Katz is C. V. Starr Professor Emeritus of Russian and East European Studies at Middlebury College. From 1998-2004, he was Dean of Language Schools and Schools Abroad at Middlebury. Professor Katz has published translations of more than fifteen Russian novels, including 'Crime and Punishment' (2019), 'Fathers and Children' (2008), 'Notes from Underground' (2000) and 'The Brothers Karamazov' (2023). In the summer, he teaches at Middlebury's Bread Loaf School of English. //
On Episode #96 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Professor Katz discuss Professor Katz's education, studying Russian at Horace Mann and Williams, the process of translating Russian novels, 'Crime and Punishment' by Fyodor Dostoevsky, traveling to Russia, Dostoevsky's genius, Leo Tolstoy, teaching undergraduate and graduate students, becoming Dean of Language Schools and Schools Abroad at Middlebury, and travels abroad. //
Purchase 'Crime and Punishment' by Fyodor Dostoevsky (translated by Michael Katz) here: https://www.amazon.com/Crime-Punishme...
Enjoy the episode? Please follow @pathtofollowpod on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Instagram, Twitter, and more. //
A special thank you to our producer, Cesare Ciccanti. //
"Courage is so much at the center of boys' education." //
"The classroom is the laboratory for future leadership positions." //
"You have to keep reminding yourself: my job is to keep this community vibrant and safe." //
Iva Turner is the former Head of the Upper School at Gilman, college counselor, and English teacher. //
On Episode #95 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Iva discuss Iva's entry into the world of education, how the English classroom prepared her for future leadership positions, the college counseling team, the value of a single-sex education, becoming the Head of the Upper School at Gilman, challenges of leading a school, courage and grit, Gilman assemblies, favorite books and units to teach, retirement, and Iva's book recommendations: 'Warlight' by Michael Ondaatje (2018), 'Silverview' by John le Carré (2021), and 'Slough House' by Mick Herron (2021). //
Enjoy the episode? Please follow @pathtofollowpod on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Instagram, Twitter, and more. //
Many thanks to Cesare Ciccanti for the production of this podcast. //
"[Pickleball] is ping pong, but you stand on the table." //
"I am so appreciative of everything [my work family] has done to support me. //
On Episode #94 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Joe discuss the origin story of pickleball, the first time Joe visited Gilman, making connections with students, what makes Gilman School special, the craft of middle school teaching, and Joe's book recommendation, 'Killers of the Flower Moon: The Osage Murders and the Birth of the FBI' by David Grann (2017).
Enjoy the episode? Please follow @pathtofollowpod on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Instagram, Twitter, and more. //
Many thanks to Cesare Ciccanti for the production of this podcast. //
"...In the wilderness, i find something more dear and connate than in the streets or villages..." -- Ralph Waldo Emerson //
"We are kindred with nature." -- Professor Bryan J. Wolf //
Professor Bryan J. Wolf is a visiting professor of American Studies at Yale University and Jones Professor in American Art and Culture, Emeritus, at Stanford University. In the summer, Professor Wolf teaches a course at Middlebury College's Bread Loaf School of English called "Humbugs and Visionaries: American Artists and Writers before the Civil War." His scholarly expertise combines art history, American literature, visual culture, and early American history. He is a graduate of Rice University and Yale Divinity School and received both his MA and PhD from Yale University.
On Episode #93 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Professor Wolf discuss "humbugs" and "visionaries," Ralph Waldo Emerson's "Nature" (1836) and the transcendentalism movement, Thomas Cole's "The Oxbow," Asher B. Durand's "Kindred Spirits" (1849), Richard Caton Woodville's "War News from Mexico" (1948), the power of learning art in the classroom, and Bryan's book recommendation, 'Maus' (1980) by Art Spiegelman. //
Enjoy the episode? Please follow @pathtofollowpod on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Instagram, Twitter, and more. //
Many thanks to Cesare Ciccanti for the production of this podcast. //
"Practice radical empathy." //
Beth Knapp is an English teacher, Bread Loaf School of English alum, and current MFA candidate at the Sewanee School of Letters. //
On Episode #92 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Beth discuss the Jesmyn Ward, the teenage experience, practicing radical empathy, Ocean Vuong, starting a MFA at the Sewanee School of Letters, the practice of writing poetry, the cell phone and social media, using art to understand literature, George Saunders, and Beth's book recommendations, 'Sing, Unburied, Sing' (2017) by Jesmyn Ward and 'I Can't Talk About the Trees Without the Blood' (2018) by Tiana Clark. //
Enjoy the episode? Please follow @pathtofollowpod on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Instagram, Twitter, and more. //
Many thanks to Cesare Ciccanti for the production of this podcast. //
"Take what you hear, what you think, and what you read. Put that all together, and that's what you know." //
Ned Emala '13 is an art history and world cultures teacher, football coach, newly-appointed assistant athletic director, and proud Gilman School alum. //
On Episode #91 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Ned discuss the Gilman/McDonogh rivalry, the new Gilman Football regime, what athletics are all about, "10 things that require zero talent," working in the athletic department at Gilman, globalization and political science, diversifying your news intake, and Ned's book recommendation, 'The World: A Brief Introduction' by Richard Haass"(2020). //
Enjoy the episode? Please follow @pathtofollowpod on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Instagram, Twitter, and more. //
Many thanks to Cesare Ciccanti for the production of this podcast. //
Karina Baptista is a Spanish teacher at Gilman School. //
On Episode #90 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Karina discuss the origin of names, Karina's dissertation, the meaning of "nemesis," teaching Spanish at Gilman, favorite Mexican foods, traveling to Latin America, and Karina's book recommendation: "El cartero de Neruda" by Antonio Skármeta (1985). //
Enjoy the episode? Please follow @pathtofollowpod on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Instagram, Twitter, and more. //
Many thanks to Cesare Ciccanti for the production of this podcast. //
"Think good thoughts." //
"I would encourage young people to persevere, because you're going to get some curveballs..." //
Joe Lizana is an administrative assistant in the Athletic Department at Gilman School, the receivers coach on the football team, and a former college football player. //
On Episode #89 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Joe discuss the benefits of weightlifting, the new weight room at Gilman School, the culture of the Gilman football team, Joe's football background, transferring colleges, perseverance and the 'never quit' mindset, rebounding from an ACL tear, vision and leadership, the psychology of great athletes, and Joe's book recommendations: 'Pistol: The Life of Pete Maravich' by Mark Kriegel (2008) and 'Expect to Win' by Bill Glass (1981). //
Enjoy the episode? Please follow @pathtofollowpod on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Instagram, Twitter, and more. //
Many thanks to Cesare Ciccanti for the production of this podcast. //
Bill Gamper '71 is an American government teacher, mountaineer, beekeeper, and long-time faculty member at Gilman School. //
On Episode #88 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Bill discuss traveling to Tanzania to scale Mount Kilimanjaro, the art of beekeeping, the leadership qualities of George Washington, and Bill's book recommendations: 'Mr. President: George Washington and the Making of the Nation's Highest Office' (2013) by Harlow Giles Unger and 'The Devil in the White City' (2003) by Erik Larson. //
Enjoy the episode? Please follow @pathtofollowpod on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Instagram, Twitter, and more. //
Many thanks to Cesare Ciccanti for the production of this podcast. //
"I might suggest to Gilman boys that they pay attention in English, learn how to write, and learn how to speak effectively...." //
Andy Brooks '74 is the current President of the Board of Trustees at Gilman School and former Vice President at T. Rowe Price. //
On Episode #87 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Andy discuss Andy's new role as the president of the Board of Trustees at Gilman, chapel and character-building as a student, surrounding yourself with talented individuals, studying history at Union College, fascinating historical sites, impacting others, memories of Mr. Reddy Finney, the investment business, and Andy's several book recommendations, including 'The World is Flat' (2005) by Thomas L. Friedman and Ernest Hemingway's 'The Nick Adams Stories' (1972). //
Enjoy the episode? Please follow @pathtofollowpod on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Instagram, Twitter, and more. //
Many thanks to Cesare Ciccanti for the production of this podcast. //
"Gilman is a place, I hope, where kids and adults feel like they belong no matter what." //
"There's nothing to hide behind when you're doing improv, there's no character that you're playing - it's just you..." //
Larry Malkus is an English teacher at Gilman School, playwright, and Essex, Maryland native. //
On Episode #86 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Larry discuss Larry's journey to Gilman School, improvisation and acting, growing up in Essex, Maryland, community theatre in Baltimore, directing plays at Gilman, banned books and exposure to ideas, Larry's elective "Writers in Revolt," gratitude in the classroom, what makes Gilman special, and Larry's book recommendations, 'The Music of Your Life' (2003) by John Rowell and 'The Book of Delights' (2019) by Ross Gay. //
Enjoy the episode? Please follow @pathtofollowpod on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Instagram, Twitter, and more. //
Many thanks to Cesare Ciccanti for the production of this podcast. //
"There is no substitute for a great books education." - Aaron Slutkin '17 //
"It may seem strange that any man should dare to ask a just God's assistance in wringing their bread from the sweat of other men's faces, but let us judge not that we be not judged." - Abraham Lincoln (1865) //
"Beauty will save the world." - Fyodor Dostoevsky //
Aaron Slutkin '17 is an Abraham Lincoln aficionado, Class of 1955 Callard Fellow, English and history teacher at Gilman School, Duke alum, football coach, and fantastic conversationalist. //
On Episode #85 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Aaron and Jake discuss Abraham Lincoln's leadership qualities, Aaron's favorite Lincoln speeches, the Douglas-Lincoln debates, memorizing words, Aaron's interest in history and war, great books courses, Russian literature and Dostoevsky, attending Duke University and Gilman School, General Ulysses S. Grant's leadership abilities, and Aaron's book recommendation: 'Abraham Lincoln: Selected Speeches and Writing' (2009) by Gore Vidal. //
Enjoy the episode? Please follow @pathtofollowpod on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Instagram, Twitter, and more. //
Many thanks to Cesare Ciccanti for the production of this podcast. //
Michael Stamberg is the new assistant in the Edward R. Fenimore Jr. Library at Gilman School, a drummer, marathon and ultramarathon runner, and gardener. //
On Episode #84 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Michael discuss working at NYPL, moving to Hampden, Michael's love of books, the Ramones, going on tour, learning instruments, the origins of running marathons, Scott Jurek, different types of running shoes, a passion for gardening, Joseph Campbell, and Michael's book recommendation: 'Born to Run' by Christopher McDougall. //
Enjoy the episode? Please follow @pathtofollowpod on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Instagram, Twitter, and more. //
Many thanks to Cesare Ciccanti for the production of this podcast. //
Evan Waters is a Pittsburgh native and a Latin & Greek teacher at Gilman School. //
On Episode #83 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Evan discuss growing up in Pittsburgh, teaching at Gilman, Evan's early interest in the classics, reading Herodotus, Romulus and Remus, the genesis of myth, ancient slavery, the manumission process in Ancient Rome, how the Romans thought about death, mystery cults, designing elective courses, character as an exploration, teaching college v. high school students, and Evan's book recommendation: 'The Periodic Table,' a collection of short stories by Primo Levi. //
Enjoy the episode? Please follow @pathtofollowpod on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Instagram, Twitter, and more. //
Many thanks to Cesare Ciccanti for the production of this podcast. //
"[Music] is mathematics in vibration form." // Dallas Jacobs is a guitarist, music lover, and Gilman School mathematics teacher. //
On Episode #82 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Dallas discuss the origins of Dallas's love for music, being "in the zone," energy between human beings, transcendent musical experiences, music in math class, mysteries of the mind, traveling to Algeria and Morocco, moving from New Jersey to Baltimore, and Dallas's book recommendation: 'The Unbearable Lightness of Being' by Milan Kundera. //
Enjoy the episode? Please follow @pathtofollowpod on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Instagram, Twitter, and more. //
Many thanks to Cesare Ciccanti for the production of this podcast. //
John O. Schmick '97 is an English teacher, avid outdoorsman, and proud Gilman School alum. //
On Episode #82 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and John discuss 'A Tale of Two Cities' by Charles Dickens, Gilman's Class of 1997, the influence of John's father (Headmaster John Schmick), memories from being a student at Gilman, Outward Bound, impactful summer experiences, and guests John would recommend for the podcast. //
Enjoy the episode? Please follow @pathtofollowpod on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Instagram, Twitter, and more. //
Many thanks to Cesare Ciccanti for the production of this podcast. //
Sherm Bristow '67 was a teacher and coach at Gilman School for twenty-six years. He held many positions over his career as a faculty member, including English teacher, head basketball coach, head football coach, athletic director, and associate headmaster. Sherm attended Princeton University, where he studied English and played basketball and baseball. Sherm is currently the co-founder and managing director for the Finney Search Group. //
On Episode #80 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Sherm discuss "Be Gilman," the influence of Mr. Finney, community at Gilman, memorable seasons as an athlete and coach, the Gilman/McDonogh rivalry, becoming head basketball coach at the age of 23, the Finney Search Group, the "deaf dome," teachers who influenced Sherm, Sherm's interest in English, favorite texts to teach, and Sherm's book recommendation: "Hopes and Dreams" by Robert Evans and Michael Thompson. //
Enjoy the episode? Please follow @pathtofollowpod on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Instagram, Twitter, and more. //
Many thanks to Cesare Ciccanti for all of his efforts on podcast production. //
Eric Coles is an Upper School English teacher and soccer coach at Gilman School. Before coming to Gilman, Eric held positions at various independent schools, including his alma mater, Bullis School. He played soccer at Loyola University Maryland. //
On Episode #79 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Eric discuss Kate Chopin, characters in 'The Great Gatsby,' Eric's first year at Gilman, designing English curricula, Bullis School, club soccer, short fiction, and Eric's book recommendation: 'The Lords of Discipline' by Pat Conroy. //
Enjoy the episode? Please follow @pathtofollowpod on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Instagram, Twitter, and more. //
Many thanks to Cesare Ciccanti for all of his efforts on podcast production. //
Manav Parikh '22 is a senior at Gilman School and will attend the University of Pennsylvania next year. //
On Episode #78 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Manav discuss Manav's high school experience, Model UN, public speaking, taking a college math course at JHU, attending UPenn, computer science, memorable Gilman courses, playing tennis, the tabla, traveling to India, and Manav's book recommendation: 'The Lowland' by Jhumpa Lahiri. //
Enjoy the episode? Please follow @pathtofollowpod on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Instagram, Twitter, and more. //
Many thanks to Cesare Ciccanti for all of his efforts on podcast production. //
"Your reward is seeing that kid back out there playing at 100%." //
Lori Bristow is an athletic director and former athletic trainer at Gilman School. //
On Episode #77 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Lori discuss playing sports growing up, breaking barriers as a female athletic trainer, Lori's passions for athletics and art, influences in athletic training, reacting and treating a severe injury, proudest and most memorable moments as a trainer, injuries Lori has treated, mental challenges of physical injuries, stories about Mr. Finney, the most memorable sporting events Lori's witnessed at Gilman, and Lori's book recommendations: 'A Dog's Promise" by W. Bruce Cameron. //
Enjoy the episode? Please follow @pathtofollowpod on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Instagram, Twitter, and more. //
Many thanks to Cesare Ciccanti for all of his efforts on podcast production. //
"Any day on a lacrosse field is a good day." //
Marcus Holman '09 is a professional lacrosse player for the PLL Archers Lacrosse Club, Team USA silver & gold medalist, UNC Tar Heel, and offensive coordinator for the 2022 Gilman Lacrosse team. //
On Episode #76 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Marcus discuss Marcus's return to coach at Gilman, memorable lacrosse seasons under Coach Brooks Matthews, competition and sports, watching the Blue Jays growing up, attending UNC, mindset and leadership lessons, Archers Lacrosse Club, Ray Lewis, "keys" from Gilman, magnanimity and humility, playing for the USA team, what it means to be a good teammate, gratitude, and Marcus's book recommendations: 'Greenlights" by Matthew McConaughey, 'Created for Greatness' by Alexandre Havard, and 'Legacy' by James Kerr. //
Enjoy the episode? Please follow @pathtofollowpod on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Instagram, Twitter, and more. //
Follow Marcus: @marcusholman1 & "Two Halves Podcast" on Spotify. //
Many thanks to Cesare Ciccanti for all of his efforts on podcast production. //
Sam Cheney is a poet, the winner of a 2021 Pushcart Prize, and the Reginald S.Tickner Writing Fellow at Gilman School. His poems appear in 'The American Journal of Poetry,' 'Copper Nickel,' 'The Literary Review,' 'The Missouri Review,' 'Salmagundi,' and elsewhere. Originally from Centerville, Utah, Sam currently resides in Baltimore and is at work on his debut collection. //
On Episode #75 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Sam discuss Haruki Murakami's short stories, the writing process, Claude Monet, growing up in Centerville, Utah, poems Sam has written, 'The Art of Fielding' by Chad Harbach, playing baseball growing up, and 'The Topeka School' by Ben Lerner. //
Enjoy the episode? Please follow @pathtofollowpod on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Instagram, Twitter, and more. //
Many thanks to Cesare Ciccanti for all of his efforts on podcast production. //
"[Gilman] understands young men and offers them close to endless possibilities..." //
A.J. Howard is a former long-time design & woodworking teacher at Gilman School, motorcycle enthusiast, band member, and music lover. //
On Episode #74 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and A.J. discuss traveling in the West, retirement, how A.J. began a career in education, moving to Baltimore, growing up in NJ, AJ's interest in cars and metalworking, the dress code at Gilman, changes in perception of homosexuality, how Gilman has changed over time, music and A.J.'s music career, most memorable concerts, and A.J.'s book recommendation: 'Lord of Light' by Roger Zelazny. //
Enjoy the episode? Please follow @pathtofollowpod on all platforms. More to come! //
Many thanks to Cesare Ciccanti for all of his efforts on podcast production. //
"You have to say to yourself that there's no place in the world I'd rather be than right here, right now, doing what I'm doing." //
Steve "Lightning" Krulevitz is a former professional tennis player, Maryland State Athletic Hall of Fame inductee, UCLA All-American, gold medalist, and Gilman tennis coach. //
On Episode #73 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Lightning discuss Lightning's introduction to tennis, the first tennis tournament he ever played in, short and long-term goal-setting, leading the Gilman tennis team, the loneliness involved in tennis, communication with coaches, motivational quotes from Coach John Wooden, what separates Rafa, finding motivation, Buddhism and world peace, and Lightning's book recommendations: 'Robert E. Lee and Me' by Ty Seidule, 'Younger Next Year' by Chris Crowley, and Lightning's memoir, 'Lightning Strikes: The Life and Times of a Professional Tour Tennis Player' by Steve Krulevitz. //
Enjoy the episode? Please follow @pathtofollowpod on all platforms. More to come! //
Many thanks to Cesare Ciccanti for all of his efforts on podcast production. //
"Even today...when I get out of my car, and walk on the campus, I feel good. [Gilman] is something of a second home for me." //
Mac Barrett '67 is the Alumni Special Projects Coordinator and proud Gilman School alum. //
On Episode #72 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Mac discuss conducting oral histories, memories of Gilman School, public speaking, athletics at Gilman, coaching influences, Headmaster Redmond C.S. Finney's legacy, attending Dartmouth, joining the college radio station, and what Gilman School means. //
Enjoy the episode? Please follow @pathtofollowpod on all platforms. More to come! //
Many thanks to Cesare Ciccanti for all of his efforts on podcast production. //
Faith Ward is a middle school librarian at Gilman School. //
On Episode #71 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Faith discuss podcasting, audiobooks, learning types, Kareem Rosser's story, Edwin Hubble, Steve Jobs, book clubs, becoming a librarian, art history, single sex vs. co-ed schools, and Faith's book recommendations: "Crossing the Line" by Kareem Rosser, 'The Boy Whose Head Was Filled with Stars: A Life of Edwin Hubble' by Isabelle Marino,' and 'Love Poems' by Pablo Neruda. //
Enjoy the episode? Please follow @pathtofollowpod on all platforms. More to come! //
Many thanks to Cesare Ciccanti for all of his efforts on podcast production. //
"I think the flair that I bring is that I am very interested in skills-based health education." //
Bessie Oster is a health education teacher at Gilman School. //
On Episode #70 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Bessie discuss concerts, growing up in Roland Park, Australian adventures, biking the West Coast, the Donald Bentley Food Pantry, returning to Baltimore, health education, skills-based health education, meditation & mindfulness, and 'Between the World and Me' by Ta-Nehisi Coates. //
Enjoy the episode? Please follow @pathtofollowpod on all platforms. More to come! //
Many thanks to Cesare Ciccanti for all of his efforts on podcast production. //
"It's all about learning about people's lives and their experiences." //
Steven Ruark '96 is an award-winning, Baltimore-based photojournalist, photography teacher at Gilman School, and graduate of the Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University. //
On Episode #69 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Steve discuss Steve's career in photojournalism, teaching photography at Gilman, attending Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse, what a great photograph "does," social media, returning to teach at Gilman, influential teachers, meeting Carmelo Anthony, and 'Where Tomorrows Aren't Promised: A Memoir of Survival and Hope' by Carmelo Anthony. //
Many thanks to Cesare Ciccanti for all of his efforts on production. //
It's not just a job; it's a calling." //
Darnell White is a DJ, day porter, Uber driver, Bible Study leader, and all-time Gilman School staff leader. //
On Episode #68 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Darnell discuss Darnell's work as a day porter at Gilman, music Fridays in the carpool line, Bible Study, love for music, DJing, stories from driving Uber, Little Italy, and Darnell's book recommendation: 'Jesus Calling' by Sarah Young. //
Enjoy the episode? Please follow @pathtofollowpod on all platforms. More to come! //
Many thanks to Cesare Ciccanti for all of his efforts on podcast production. //
"I'm living by what I believe, and what I've learned, and how I interpret it." //
Avonte Jones is an Administrative Assistant in the College Counseling Office at Gilman School. Before starting at Gilman in 2019, Avonte held similar positions at Garrison Forest School, Sinai Hospital, Maryland Transit Administration, and T. Rowe Price. //
On Episode #67 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Avonte discuss dealing with loss, the new college counseling wing at Gilman School, how Avonte found Gilman, the differences Avonte sees between all-girls and all-boys academic environments, Garrison Forest School, a typical day in the life of Avonte Jones, standardized testing, growing up in Baltimore, being nominated for high school class president, handling grief, meditation and well-being practices, singing, "words to live by," and Avonte's book recommendation: 'The Bible.' //
Enjoy the episode? Please follow @pathtofollowpod on all platforms. More to come! //
Many thanks to Cesare Ciccanti for all of his efforts on podcast production. //
Joseph Seivold '82 is the sixth headmaster of the Berkeley Preparatory School (Tampa, FL), a 2020 inductee to the National Lacrosse Hall of Fame, four-time All-American midfielder and Academic All-American at University of North Carolina (1983-1987), and proud Gilman School graduate. //
On Episode #66 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Joe discuss growing up and playing lacrosse in Baltimore, role models during Joe's time at Gilman, club versus school sports, memories from the Class of 1982, Reddy Finney's legacy, Joe's decision to attend UNC, Willie Scroggs' coaching influence, Joe's decision to pursue a profession in education, Durham Academy, competition and service, The Blake School in Minneapolis, becoming a headmaster, Berkeley Preparatory School in Tampa, and Joe's book recommendations: 'A History of the World in 6 Glasses' (2021) by Tom Standage, 'Whose Game Is It Anyway?' (2021) by Amy Baltzell, Richard D. Ginsburg, and Stephen Durant, and 'The Hero Code' (2021) by Admiral William H. McRaven. //
Enjoy the episode? Please follow @pathtofollowpod on all platforms. More to come! //
Many thanks to Cesare Ciccanti for all of his efforts on podcast production. //
"For whatever reason, I've always been really interested in the brain." //
MacFadyen Nichols '22 is the current school president at Gilman School. //
On Episode #65 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Mac discuss Mac's experience playing lacrosse at Gilman, running for school president, Mac's love for GIlman, the experience of learning over Zoom during the pandemic, maintaining connections in 2020, developing leadership abilities, senior retreat, Gilman traditions, public speaking, leaders and teachers Mac looks up to, comfortability with yourself and Mac's senior speech, applying to college, Paul Kalanithi's 'When Breath Becomes Air' (2016), the Library Club, and Mac's book recommendation: 'The Anthropocene Review' (2021) by John Green. //
Enjoy the episode? Please follow @pathtofollowpod on all platforms. More to come! //
Many thanks to Cesare Ciccanti for all of his efforts on podcast production. //
Christina Kim is the first Director of Wellness & Support at Gilman School. Christina was previously a counselor at the Park School in Baltimore and the Director of Student Life at The Willows Community School in L.A. She was also a field instructor at UCLA’s Luskin School of Public Affairs.
Prior to moving to California, Christina worked for seven years as a teacher, learning specialist, and social worker at The School at Columbia University. Her experience in New York had also included four years as a clinical social worker for the Jewish Board of Families & Children, as well as a few years teaching at the Manhattan School for Children.
Christina holds degrees from New York University, Bank Street College of Education, the Columbia University School of Social Work, and another Master of Education from Teachers College, Columbia University. //
On Episode #64 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Christina discuss mental health and well-being at Gilman School, the impact the pandemic has had on mental health, what stress is, mindfulness meditation for children (and adults), building emotional intelligence, Viktor Frankl and activating our best selves, naming feelings, the impact of social media on young people, building belonging and well-being at Gilman, and Christina's book recommendation: 'Permission to Feel' (2019) by Mark Brackett, Ph.D. //
Enjoy the episode? Please follow @pathtofollowpod on all platforms. More to come! //
Many thanks to Cesare Ciccanti for all of his efforts on podcast production. //
Alex DeWeese '11 is a chemistry and physics teacher at Gilman School. He is also a track and field coach, former sprinter at Lafayette College, singer, and avid music fan. //
On Episode #63 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Alex discuss favorite concerts, Grateful Dead, Kendrick Lamar, Kanye West's latest album 'Donda,' different ways to appreciate music, Spotify playlists, Traveling Men at Gilman, a cappella in college, Johnnie Foreman and track & field at Gilman, coaching track, the teachers and coaches that shaped Alex's experience at Gilman, and Alex's book recommendations: 'Neutral Milk Hotel's In the Aeroplane Over the Sea (33 1/3)' by Kim Cooper, and 'Dune' (1965) by Frank Herbert. //
Enjoy the episode? Please follow @pathtofollowpod on all platforms. More to come! //
Many thanks to Cesare Ciccanti for all of his efforts on podcast production. //
"We're in a unique position at Gilman to get to know our students really well." //
Matt Herman is a college counselor, US History teacher, and golf coach at Gilman School. //
On Episode #62 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Matt discuss the college application season, the bulk of the job as a college counselor, writing supplemental college essays, the "why" essays, word limits, what makes a strong college recommendation letter, how Matt became a college counselor and history teacher, Matt's favorite aspects of college counseling, handling high college expectations and pressures, coaching soccer and golf, the curriculum of Matt's US History course, the first Thanksgiving, Malcolm Gladwell's 'Revisionist History' podcast, and Matt's book recommendation: 'The Four Winds' by Kristin Hannah (2021). //
Enjoy the episode? Please follow @pathtofollowpod on all platforms. More to come! //
Many thanks to Cesare Ciccanti for all of his efforts on podcast production. //
Devina Bhalla is a Penn Fellow, Upper School English teacher, and swimming and water polo coach at Gilman School. She graduated from Tufts University in 2020 and enjoys swimming, writing, and reading. //
On Episode #61 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Devina discuss Devina's first months of teaching at Gilman, the University of Pennsylvania Teaching Fellowship, attending boarding school at Suffield Academy, studying English and sociology at Tufts, "The Age of Unreason," 'Fantomina' by Eliza Haywood, Devina's swimming background and legendary coach Andy Lowe, the process of book publication, 'Shelves of Art and the People Between,' and Devina's book recommendation: Gabriel García Márquez's 'One Hundred Years of Solitude.' //
Enjoy the episode? Please follow @pathtofollowpod on all platforms. More to come! //
Many thanks to Cesare Ciccanti for all of his efforts on podcast production. //
Laura Soden is an Upper School mathematics teacher at Gilman School, volleyball and basketball coach, and former Hamline University Piper. //
On Episode #60 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Laura discuss teaching mathematics during the pandemic, freshmen and sophomore year of high school, growing up in Minnesota, playing volleyball and basketball at Hamline University in Saint Paul, life skills learned in woodshop, Laura's family connections at Gilman, the value of geometry, the freedoms she finds teaching at Gilman, important study skills, developing a coaching "style," college recruiting advice, and Laura's book recommendation: 'Home' (2016) by Harlan Coben. //
Enjoy the episode? Please follow @pathtofollowpod on all platforms. More to come! //
Many thanks to Cesare Ciccanti for all of his efforts on podcast production. //
"Early on - what drew me into it - was that I loved taking pictures and I loved finding new letters..." - Nathaniel Badder '94 //
Nathaniel Badder '94 is the Director of Alumni Relations & Outreach at Gilman School. He's a Middlebury College alum, lover of the outdoors, and the creator of 36 Letters. //
On Episode #59 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Nathaniel discuss "van life," development and alumni relations at Gilman, Nathaniel's fond memories of attending Gilman as a student, memorable teachers and coaches, 36 Letters, playing lacrosse at Middlebury College, David Foster Wallace, audiobooks, and Than'l's book recommendation: 'Jitterbug Perfume' by Tom Robbins. //
Many thanks to Cesare Ciccanti for all of his efforts on podcast production. //
"How do we make people feel known and loved? How do we demonstrate that in our actions?" //
Kevin J. O'Brien is an English teacher and lacrosse coach at University School in Hunting Valley, Ohio. //
On Episode #58 of the Path to Follow Podcast (recorded 17 June 2021), Jake and Kevin discuss picking up the sport of lacrosse for the first time, attending Phillips Academy Andover, Fitzgerald and 'The Great Gatsby,' windows and mirrors, candid conversations, the power of journaling, empathy for students, gratitude, yoga, the Bread Loaf School of English, Western Reserve Academy, mental health and well-being, and some of Kevin's several book recommendations: 'Permission to Feel' by Marc Brackett, Ph.D., 'Fear Less: How to Win Your Way in Work & Life' by Dr. Pippa Grange, and 'The Advice Trap: Be Humble, Stay Curious & Change the Way You Lead Forever' by Michael Bungay Stanier. //
Tony Incontrera is the head lacrosse coach and a history teacher at Gilman School. He won three national championships at Salisbury University and has coached at Marriotts Ridge and Mt. Hebron HS. As a head coach at Marriotts Ridge, Tony led the Mustangs to the state championship in 2018 and Howard County titles in 2017 & 2019. //
On Episode #57 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Tony discuss the origins of Tony's love for lacrosse and history, the legacy of Salisbury's Jim Berkman, the college recruiting process, H.I.T., what inspired Tony to get into coaching, Marriotts Ridge High School, visions for the Gilman Lacrosse program, off-season training, run tests, the Oregon Trail, the challenges of winning, teaching history, and Tony's book recommendations: 'The Winds of War' (2011) and 'War of Remembrance' by Herman Wouk (1987). //
Enjoy the episode? Please follow @pathtofollowpod on all platforms. More to come! //
Many thanks to the wizard Cesare Ciccanti for all of his efforts on podcast production. //
"Dante is everywhere." //
"The history of literature is the story of one grand conversation." //
"When I have fears that I may cease to be Before my pen has gleaned my teeming brain..." //
Dan Christian is an expert on Dante Alighieri's 'The Divine Comedy.' He was a high school teacher for forty-three years, and taught elective courses on Dante Alighieri, Charles Dickens, and C.S. Lewis for thirty-nine years at Gilman School. Dan earned his B.A. degree from St. Ambrose College in Davenport, Iowa, and has M.A. in Theology from St. Mary's Seminary and the University of Baltimore. //
On Episode #55 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Dan discuss Dante Alighieri's 'The Divine Comedy,' Dan's first years of teaching, "keep playing," 'Il Postino,' the value of memorizing poetry, books as living things, John Keats, what Dan would ask Dante, compiling essays written by students, the pairing between folk music and Dante, Harry Chapin, creative repurposing, and the wizardry of Cesare Ciccanti. //
Enjoy the episode? Please follow @pathtofollowpod on all platforms. More to come! //
Many thanks to the WIZARD Cesare Ciccanti for all of his efforts on podcast production. //
"The best cartoons have the fewest words." //
Signe Wilkinson is a Pulitzer Prize-winning editorial cartoonist. She began cartooning for the Philadelphia Daily News and the Philadelphia Inquirer in 1985, and her cartoons are syndicated by the Washington Post Writer's Group. In 2021, she illustrated Jonathan Zimmerman's book, 'Free Speech: And Why You Should Give a Damn.' //
On Episode #55 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Signe discuss how Signe began a career in cartooning, her creative process, finding ideas for cartoons, the importance of timing in cartooning, complaints and criticism, the issue of free speech, the origin of Signe's book collaboration with Jonathan Zimmerman, vicious cartoonists from history, Thomas Nast, Signe's best cartoons, blowing up on Reddit, and 'Free Speech: And Why You Should Give a Damn' (2021). //
Many thanks to the all-powerful Cesare Ciccanti for all of his efforts on podcast production. //
"I see remarkable things. The future seems dim sometimes - it just looks like the world's never going to get to be better - but if I have to judge by what's happening at Gilman, it's going to get a lot better." //
Andre Jones is a LEGENDARY middle school geography teacher at Gilman. He spent 33 years teaching in Anne Arundel County public schools before coming to Gilman in 2007. He is retiring at the end of the 2020-21 school year. //
On Episode #54 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Andre talk about Andre's retirement from Gilman, how Andre found Gilman, teaching geography, the teacher who made the biggest impact on Andre, Gilman's mission, global overpopulation, competing with China, what's unique about the US, the Moderna vaccine, focusing on the geography of the Eastern Hemisphere, Andre's international journeys, homelessness in the US versus Africa, traveling to the border of the US and Mexico, the Pacific Northwest, and Andre's book recommendations: 'Company Man' (1992) by Brent Wade and 'Exit the Rainmaker' (1989) by Jonathan Coleman. //
Enjoy the episode? Please follow @pathtofollowpod on all platforms. More to come! //
Many thanks to the all-powerful Cesare Ciccanti for all of his efforts on podcast production. //
"Yes, I'm their leader, but we're on the same team." //
On Episode #53 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Will discuss building team culture during the pandemic, the intangibles of a team leader, Jeff Gouline's character development program for Gilman teams, Coach Bartz's early basketball influences, Gregg Popovich, Landry Kosmalski of Swarthmore Basketball, learning from successful coaches, Pete Carril, honesty with players, the best leaders Coach Bartz has ever coached, fake masculinity, and Will's book recommendation: 'Season of Life' (2004) by Jeffrey Marx. //
Enjoy the episode? Please follow @pathtofollowpod on all platforms. More to come! //
Many thanks to the all-powerful Cesare Ciccanti for all of his efforts on podcast production. //
Lily Rapuano '21 is a senior at Roland Park Country Day School. She plans to study philosophy at the University of Vermont in the fall. //
On Episode #52 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Lily discuss the end of the 2021 school year, the University of Vermont, learning how to ski, 'Manufacturing Consent' and media theory, Jesmyn Ward, favorite classes taken at RPCS, Lily's transition from McDonogh to RPCS, English with Mr. Abbott, AP classes, a personal connection to Cormac McCarthy, the most difficult part of writing short stories, and Lily's book recommendation: 'Her Body and Other Parties' (2017) by Carmen Maria Machado. //
Enjoy the episode? Please follow @pathtofollowpod on all platforms. More to come! //
Many thanks to the all-powerful Cesare Ciccanti for all of his efforts on podcast production. //
Teddy Conover '21 is an aspiring teacher, the editor in chief of the Gilman News, history buff, and soon-to-be Penn Quaker. //
On Episode #51 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Teddy discuss favorite podcasts, Sam Harris and free will, attending Gilman School, senior year during the pandemic, typing vs. taking notes on paper, Teddy's all-time favorite classes at Gilman, 60's literature, Latin and ancient mythology, Cormac McCarthy's writing style, applying to colleges during the pandemic, the University of Pennsylvania, forming bonds with teachers and classmates, and one of the best books Teddy has ever read: 'The Road' by Cormac McCarthy (2006). //
Many thanks to the all-powerful Cesare Ciccanti for all of his efforts on podcast production. //
"I think you can strive to be the best and still do it in a loving and caring way." //
Haswell "Has" Franklin Jr. '79 is a father, proud Gilman alum, financial advisor, former three-sport athlete at Johns Hopkins, and racket sport wizard. //
Mac Franklin '14 is a proud Gilman alum, Dickinson graduate, and group benefits advisor. //
On a very special Episode #50 of the Path to Follow Podcast, the Franklins and I discuss the Gilman/McDonogh football rivalry, Has's favorite football memories, Gilman pep rallies, impactful Gilman teachers and coaches, George Chandlee, how Gilman School has evolved over the years, playing multiple sports, chicken tenders, Gilman's commitment to excellence, lifelong bonds, playing three sports at Johns Hopkins, and Mac and Has's book recommendations: "The Greatest Gambling Story Ever Told" (2020) by Mark Paul and "Hug Your Customers" (2003) by Jack Mitchell. //
Enjoy the episode? Please follow @pathtofollowpod on all platforms. More to come! //
Many thanks to the all-powerful Cesare Ciccanti for all of his efforts on podcast production. //
"You start to limit free speech, and in the end, it will be denied to the people with the least power. And eventually, it will be denied to you." // Dr. Jonathan Zimmerman is one of the leading education historians today. His work examines how education policies and practices have evolved and where political and social movements intersect with teaching and learning. Dr. Zimmerman holds a Ph.D. from Johns Hopkins University, and he has authored books on sex and alcohol education, history and religion in school curricula, the history of public schooling, and teaching controversial issues in the classroom. His most recent book, published in April 2021, is titled 'Free Speech: And Why You Should Give a Damn.' //
On Episode #47 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Jon discuss teaching English in Nepal, the origins of Jon's interest in the history of education, how politics and education coexist, what schools are for, the connection between free speech and democracy, the attack on free speech as a fundamentally bipartisan issue, free speech as the "great moral renovation of humankind," cancel culture and self-censorship in elite institutions, speech and violence, Mary Beth Tinker, and Jon's 2021 book, 'Free Speech: And Why You Should Give a Damn.' //
Enjoy the episode? Please spread the word and follow @pathtofollowpod on all platforms. More to come! //
Many thanks to the all-powerful Cesare Ciccanti for all of his efforts on podcast production. //
Boo Smith '70 is the dean of students and an art history teacher at Gilman School. He's a longtime squash and lacrosse coach, ex-UVA groundball machine, talented sports photographer, and avid rollerblader. //
On Episode #49 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Boo discuss sports photography, the transition from baseball to lacrosse, Coach George Chandlee, playing lacrosse at UVA, playing squash to get in shape, teaching and coaching at John Carroll, becoming a dean of students, dissecting paintings for symbolism, a common Boo Smith art history class, how Gilman has changed since Boo's time as a student, some of Boo's role models as at Gilman, rollerblading, and Boo's book recommendation: 'Boys in the Boat' by Daniel James Brown (2013). //
Enjoy the episode? Please spread the word and follow @pathtofollowpod on all platforms. More to come! //
Many thanks to Cesare Ciccanti for all of his efforts on podcast production. //
Charles Nuermberger '21 is a talented artist, avid reader, water polo player, and the editor-in-chief of 'Paragon,' Gilman School's literary magazine. He will attend Princeton University in the fall of 2021. //
On Episode #48 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Charlie discuss art at Gilman, art teacher Mr. Karl Connelly, self-criticism as an artist, Charlie's senior speech, art-making versus image-making, the 2021 college admissions process, Princeton University, how Gilman prepares students for college, Charlie's favorite classes at Gilman, tri-school coordination, Richard Siken, 'Paragon' at Gilman, water polo, and Charlie's book recommendations: 'Crush' (2004) and 'War of the Foxes' by Richard Siken (2015). //
Enjoy the episode? Please spread the word and follow @pathtofollowpod on all platforms. More to come! //
Many thanks to Cesare Ciccanti for all of his efforts on podcast production. //
"To be a better COACH, you've got to be a better YOU." //
Joe Ehrmann is a former defensive lineman for the Baltimore Colts and the Detroit Lions. He was named to Syracuse University's All-Century Football Team and played lacrosse for legendary coach, Roy Simmons Jr. After the NFL, Joe pursued a career in service leadership, urban ministry, and coaching, and he coached football at Gilman School for twelve years alongside Biff Poggi.
Coach Ehrmann has received widespread recognition for his messages on masculinity and transformational coaching. He is currently the President of a national movement called InsideOut Initiative, an evidence-based approach to mentoring and developing student-athletes. //
On Episode #46 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Joe discuss Syracuse University's Roy Simmons Jr., what a transformational coach is, coaching and modeling moral character, the three myths of masculinity, what it takes to "be a man," athletics as a vehicle for character building, Joe's proudest moments as a football coach at Gilman School, issues facing young men today, determining your life narrative and finding purpose, Joe's 2011 book 'InSideOut Coaching,' and his initiative to use sports to transform lives. //
Many thanks to the all-powerful Cesare Ciccanti for all of his efforts on podcast production. //
Lauren Nordsiek is a high school English teacher at Conestoga High School in Berwyn, PA. //
On Episode #45 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Lauren discuss Lauren's excellent book recommendation: 'Leave the World Behind' by Rumaan Alam (2020), deciding on teaching as a career path, mentorship during the first few years of teaching, classroom tips & tricks during the pandemic, changes in high school English curricula, "The Yellow Wallpaper" by Charlotte Perkins Gilman, 'The Kite Runner' (2003) by Khaled Hosseini, Nathaniel Hawthorne and teaching 'The Scarlet Letter' (1850), admirable qualities of Hester Prynne, the concept of "the other," Conestoga High School, and self-care during the pandemic. //
Purchase 'Leave the World Behind' by Rumaan Alam (2020) - https://www.amazon.com/Leave-World-Behind-Rumaan-Alam/dp/0062667637 //
Enjoy the episode? Please spread the word and follow @pathtofollowpod on all platforms. More to come! //
Many thanks to the all-powerful Cesare Ciccanti for all of his efforts on podcast production. //
"Everything should be taken day by day." //
Tem Koleosho is the president of the Class of 2021 at Gilman School and an abstract artist. He will attend Vanderbilt University in the fall. //
On Episode #44 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Tem discuss life as a student in 2021, virtual classes and the hybrid learning model, Gilman's art program under Karl Connelly, finding artistic inspiration, student government at Gilman, approachability and leadership, applying to colleges during the pandemic, some of Tem's favorite classes at Gilman, coordinated classes, advice for younger students, and Tem's book recommendation: 'The Catcher in the Rye' by J.D. Salinger (1951). //
Purchase 'The Catcher in the Rye' by J.D. Salinger (1951) - https://www.amazon.com/Catcher-Rye-J-... //
Purchase 'Jim Huckleberry" by Mike Molina (2020) (cover art by Tem Koleosho) - https://www.amazon.com/Jim-Huckleberr... //
Enjoy the episode? Please spread the word and follow @pathtofollowpod on all platforms. More to come! //
Many thanks to the all-powerful Cesare Ciccanti for all of his efforts on podcast production. //
"Trying to be okay with ourselves and accepting who we are is just a big part of being human." //
Noah Knopf is a U.S. history teacher at Milton Academy, an independent boarding and day school outside of Boston, Massachusetts. Noah graduated from Harvard University in 2020 before becoming a teaching fellow in the University of Pennsylvania Independent School Teaching Residency. //
On Episode #43 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Noah discuss the Penn Fellowship at Milton Academy, redefining a "good teacher," Noah's 'US Lacrosse Magazine' article about coming out, homophobia in athletics, addressing the shortcomings in the culture of lacrosse, 'Mrs. Dalloway' by Virginia Woolf, accepting who we are as human, studying history & literature at Harvard, Noah's experience as a Harvard Men's Lacrosse player, and Noah's book recommendation, 'The Autobiography of Malcolm X' by Malcolm X and Alex Haley (1965). //
Read Noah's article in 'US Lacrosse Magazine' (2020) - https://www.uslaxmagazine.com/college/men/harvard-mens-lacrosses-noah-knopf-to-teammates-guys-im-gay //
Purchase 'The Autobiography of Malcolm X' by Malcolm X and Alex Haley (1965) - https://www.amazon.com/Autobiography-Malcolm-Told-Alex-Haley/dp/0345350685 //
Enjoy the episode? Please spread the word and follow @pathtofollowpod on all platforms. More to come! //
Many thanks to the all-powerful Cesare Ciccanti for all of his efforts on podcast production. //
“I remember being compelled during [my first] visit [to Gilman] by things that we hear a lot today. Body, mind, spirit. Multi-sport athletes. Sharing athletes and how the coaches who might coach your primary sport are going to be the ones who push you to play another sport. I think that was true then, and that is true now. And that’s part of the legacy of the school that I hope to be able to help carry forward.” //
Russell Wrenn ‘96 is the co-Athletic Director at Gilman School, an Upper School English teacher, and an assistant baseball coach. He has spent time as a football and baseball coach at Westminster School, Dickinson College, and Johns Hopkins University. Russell is a graduate of Washington & Lee University, where he played football and baseball. //
On Episode #42 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Russell discuss managing athletic teams and schedules during the pandemic, staying eternally optimistic, Russell’s favorite part of being a student at Gilman, body~mind~spirit, the teachers and coaches who played a significant role in Russell’s development, Dan Christian and Dante’s ‘Divine Comedy’, “Dante is everywhere,” deciding to study English and geology in college, questions to consider as a potential collegiate athlete, current trends worth discussing in the world of youth & high school sports, pros and cons of club sports, athletic specialization versus generalization, fond memories as a Gilman athlete, qualities Russell looks for in a coach, JHU baseball coach Bob Babb, growing up during COVID, and Russell’s book recommendation: 'Artificial Maturity' by Tim Elmore (2012). //
Enjoy the episode? Please spread the word and follow @pathtofollowpod on all platforms. More to come! //
Many, many thanks to the all-powerful Cesare Ciccanti for all of his efforts on podcast production. //
"I just got consumed by practice." //
A ton of fun on Episode #41 of the Path to Follow Podcast with Mac Ford '81. Mac is a full-time financial advisor at Morgan Stanley, UNC Tarheel '85, father of five, Head Girls' Lacrosse Coach at Notre Dame Prep, and one of the best attackmen to ever play the sport of lacrosse. //
On Episode #41, Jake and Mac discuss coaching girls' lacrosse, the difference between the men's and women's games today, attending Gilman School, the first time Mac ever picked up a lacrosse stick, leadership skills developed through playing JV lacrosse, Eamon McEneaney, Mike French, and Bob Grebe, getting recruited to play at the University of North Carolina, winning a National Championship in 1982, expecting victory, Coach Willie Scroggs, memorable games at Gilman, Chip Tompkins and mastering algebra, playing football for Coach Alex Sotir, when practice becomes a game, "everybody's a salesman," and Mac's book recommendation, the "greatest people skills book of all time": 'How to Win Friends & Influence People' by Dale Carnegie (1936). //
Enjoy the episode? Please spread the word and follow @pathtofollowpod on all platforms. More to come! //
Many, many thanks to the all-powerful Cesare Ciccanti for all of his efforts on production. //
"I would say during those years, if you are going to win the championships for track & field in the MIAA, you gotta come through Gilman." //
Johnnie Foreman joined the Gilman faculty in 1984 to teach middle school science and coach varsity football. In 1988, he took over and built up the varsity track & field team, which now holds several records and championships. He taught for years in the Upper School English Department, and serves currently as the Director of Community, Inclusion, and Equity.
Johnnie is one of the foremost figures in Gilman School history; not only has he educated and mentored generations of young men, but he has helped Gilman become a welcoming and inclusive institution for all. //
In Episode #40 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Johnnie discuss the first time Johnnie stepped on Gilman's campus, Sherm Bristow and Headmaster Redmond C.S. Finney, coaching track and football at Northern High School before coming to Gilman, physical education and track, teaching biology to future track athletes, lactic acid, the physiology of exercise, understanding the connectivity of the body, recovery after track meets, recruiting track athletes to build a team, the power of the arms in running, the mindset of a runner, Johnnie's fondest track & field memory, how Gilman has changed over time, diversity initiatives at Gilman, learning differences in the classroom, how to move academic institutions forward, trombone days, the Sound Experience and "Don't Fight the Feeling," and Johnnie's book recommendation: 'Not in My Neighborhood' (2010) by Antero Pietila. //
Enjoy the episode? Please spread the word and follow @pathtofollowpod on all platforms. More to come! //
Many, many thanks to the all-powerful Cesare Ciccanti for all of his efforts on production. //
"Attack the day with an enthusiasm unknown to mankind!" //
John Harbaugh is the head coach of the Baltimore Ravens. He's a father, mentor, leader, and inspiration, and it was a pleasure to talk to him on Episode #39 of the Path to Follow Podcast. //
On Episode #39, Jake and Coach Harbaugh discuss the "lost art" of writing well, competition in the Harbaugh household, the teachers and coaches who encouraged Coach Harbaugh as a young man, "95-percenters," building a winning culture "in a nutshell," Ed Reed and shared vision, BIG TRUSS, trust as a pillar of any successful organization, liking AND loving your players, a great Arnold Palmer quote, how to define success, growth from failure, What’s Important Now, and 'Win the Day' by Mark Batterson (2020). //
Enjoy the episode? Please spread the word and follow @pathtofollowpod on all platforms. More to come! //
Many, many thanks to the great Cesare Ciccanti for all his hard work on the technical end. //
"There's a difference between LEADERSHIP and LIKERSHIP." //
Rick Sowell has been a Division I Men's Lacrosse Coach for the past twenty years. He began his coaching career after graduating from Washington College in 1986, where he was a two-time All-American and the 1985 Division III National Midfielder of the Year. At the college level, Coach Sowell is one of only three coaches to lead three different programs - Dartmouth, Stony Brook, and Navy - to the NCAA lacrosse playoffs. //
On Episode #38, Coach Sowell and Jake talk about coaching lacrosse at Gilman School in 2020, developing young players, the path to coaching, Coach Moffit's influence, Washington College coach Terry Corcoran, discipline in the sport of lacrosse, what college coaches look for, communicating with college coaches as a high school player, recruiting Canadians at Stony Brook, fostering leadership at the Naval Academy, the decision to attend a service academy, the hardest worker Coach Sowell has ever coached, the difference between leadership and likership, and Coach Sowell's book recommendation: LEADERS EAT LAST by Simon Sinek (2014). //
Enjoy the episode? Please spread the word and follow @pathtofollowpod on all platforms. More to come! //
Many, many thanks to Cesare Ciccanti for spittin' out these episodes like an absolute machine. //
"They may be athletes, but they're human beings first." //
Arman "Dr. T" Taghizadeh is a Johns Hopkins-trained, Board Certified Psychiatrist and sports psychiatrist. He grew up in Baltimore and attended Gilman School ('95), where he was an All-American wrestler. He also wrestled at James Madison University before receiving his M.D. from the University of Maryland School of Medicine. Dr. T is the host of "The Mindset Experience," a podcast about using the mind to overcome challenges and achieve success. //
In Episode #37 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Dr. T discuss David Goggins, the 40% Rule, epitomizing mental toughness, failure as inevitable, developing unshakable confidence as an athlete, attitude and gratitude, Jocko Willink, accepting ownership of your circumstances, the Daily Gratitude Challenge, little victories, coaching by tailoring and differentiating communication, preparing players for life, relational coaching, acknowledging and observing the "chatter" of anxiety and doubt, the "hot hand fallacy," the insane powers of visualization, how to visualize "the right way," the mind as "the source," and Dr. T's book recommendation: CAN'T HURT ME by David Goggins (2018). //
Visit Dr. T's website - http://mindsettraininginstitute.com/ //
Don't forget to check out Dr. T's "The Mindset Experience" - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-mindset-experience/id1523956517 //
Purchase CAN'T HURT ME by David Goggins (2018) - https://www.amazon.com/Cant-Hurt-Me-Master-Your/dp/1544512287 //
Enjoy the episode? Please spread the word and follow @pathtofollowpod on all platforms. More to come! //
PODCAST LINKS - All links: https://linktr.ee/Pathtofollowpod
Many, many thanks to Cesare Ciccanti for all his hard work on the technical end. //
"Especially in the ancient world, everything is influencing each other so much that it sometimes seems unmanageable how much you would need to learn to really understand history and how things get passed down. But I think that's a good thing..." //
Sarah Miller is a philologist, Latin and Greek teacher at Gilman School, Colgate grad, native of Buffalo, NY, and passionate classicist. //
In Episode #36 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Sarah talk about Sarah's archeological dig in Corinth, developing an interest for the classics, the first time in the classroom, academia and University of Virginia's Ph.D program, Cicero's letters and legacy, the Cataline Conspiracy, letter-writing in ancient Rome, Stoic philosophers, Ryan Holiday, Cicero's ego and reputation, the importance of slowing down while reading Latin and Greek, Ovid's METAMORPHOSES and its retellings, expanding your scope of history, and Sarah's book recommendation: THE SILK ROADS by Peter Frankopan (2015). //
Enjoy the episode? Please spread the word and follow @pathtofollowpod on all platforms. More to come! //
Many, many thanks to Cesare Ciccanti for all his hard work. //
"Outside a window, against a tree, a man named Jim leaned into heavy sleep. Though he was a powerful man of great reach, his body bore baggy rags that made him look raggedy. Drool dripped through his beard and turned to mud as it mingled with the dust of day and the crusted muck of a meal of mush." - JIM HUCKLEBERRY //
Michael Otieno Molina is the Head of School at the Bishop John T. Walker School for Boys in Washington D.C. He taught English at Gilman School from 2016-20 and recently published a book called JIM HUCKLEBERRY - "an antidote to the dehumanizing portrayal of Jim that stains Twain's most famous work." Mike is also a spoken word poet, Yale Law School graduate, and native of New Orleans, LA. //
In Episode #35 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Mike discuss Bishop John T. Walker School for Boys, the unique character of Gilman School, becoming multi-dimensional, pursuing a career in education, teaching Mark Twain's HUCKLEBERRY FINN "the right way," writing JIM HUCKLEBERRY, the complexities and contradictions of Mark Twain, Toni Morrison's literary criticism and BELOVED, Benjamin Arthur Quarles, identifying satire, George Washington Cable, spoken word poetry, Van Jones and the Ella Baker Center for Human Rights, how Mike found Gilman, inspiring others, bus rides post-Hurricane Katrina, Mike's creative writing process, contagious intellectual curiosity, and overcoming tech difficulties (cheers, Cesare). //
Enjoy the episode? Please spread the word and follow @pathtofollowpod on all platforms. More great ones to come! //
Many, many thanks to Cesare Ciccanti for working technical wonders. //
In Episode #3 of the Special Topics Series of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake discusses MEDITATION & KORU MINDFULNESS with directors of the Koru Mindfulness program at Gilman School, Cheryl Nkeba and Sarah Ross. //
Koru Mindfulness is an evidence-based meditation and mindfulness program for college-aged students and other young adults. The program was developed by two physicians at Duke University, and has become very popular in recent years. //
Cheryl Nkeba is the Upper School Music Coordinator and co-director of Koru Mindfulness at Gilman School. //
Sarah Ross is a college counselor and co-director of Koru Mindfulness at Gilman School. //
Enjoy the episode? Please follow the Path to Follow Podcast on all platforms: https://linktr.ee/Pathtofollowpod //
Many thanks to the producer of the Path to Follow Podcast, Cesare Ciccanti. //
"I think the most important advice that I'd give Carter is not to rush. There's plenty of time ahead of you...Take your time. Enjoy all of it as it comes to you." //
Jared Spahn '91 is a father, proud Gilman alum, real estate developer, and founder of Old Town Construction in Ellicott City, Maryland. Carter Spahn '21 is a senior at Gilman, aspiring politician, computer technician, and founder of the Gilman Investment Society. //
Such an honor hosting the first father-son dynamic duo on Episode #34 of the Path to Follow Podcast. We discuss different forms of service to country, Jared's long-time interest in politics, teaching history in South Carolina, financial literacy and the ambitious origins of the Gilman Investment Society, fond memories of Headmaster Redmond C.S. Finney, James K. Polk's presidency, teachers who made a lasting impact on Jared and Carter, plans to update the Constitution, real estate development and Old Town Construction, green building, valuable graduation advice, education through travel, what Carter will miss most about Gilman, Carter's book recommendation "The Giving Tree" by Shel Silverstein (1964), and Jared's book recommendation "Better Places, Better Lives: A Biography of James Rouse" (2019) by Joshua Olsen. //
Enjoy the episode? Please spread the word and follow @pathtofollowpod on all platforms. More to come! //
Many thanks to Cesare Ciccanti for his production magic. //
Greg Calhoun is an assistant football coach, track & field coach, and Lower School teacher at Gilman School. He played offensive line at the University of Alabama at Birmingham and professionally for the Florida Tarpons and Colorado Crush. //
On Episode #33 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Greg discuss off-season training for football players, the coaches that inspired Greg, growing up with football as "a way of life" in Alabama, the recruiting process, the influence of social media (especially Twitter) on athletic recruitment, developing yourself as a player and student in high school, the differences in "level of play" between high school, college, and professional athletics, a "day in the life" of a college football player, Greg's football experience at University of Alabama at Birmingham, how society can influence emotional vulnerabilities, father-son relationships, and Greg's two book recommendations: "Slavery By Another Name" by Douglas A. Blackmon (2008) and "Cry Like a Man" by Jason Wilson (2019). //
Enjoy the episode? Please spread the word and follow @pathtofollowpod on all platforms. More to come! //
Many, many thanks to Cesare Ciccanti for his production magic. //
On Episode #2 of the Special Topics Series of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Gene Ubriaco discuss the topic of FUNDAMENTALS & INTANGIBLES in the sport of lacrosse. //
Gene Ubriaco is the Head Lacrosse Coach at Loyola Blakefield in Towson, MD. A product of Boys' Latin School of Maryland and Loyola University, Coach U is a career educator and wealth of knowledge in the game of lacrosse. He and Coach John Nostrant (Gilman School) also run a developmental lacrosse training program in Maryland called Ascension Lacrosse. //
Enjoy the episode? Please follow the Path to Follow Podcast (@pathtofollowpod) on all platforms. Many thanks to the podcast tech wizard, Cesare Ciccanti. //
"Mr. Finney: nobody had anything but total respect for the man...." //
Del Dressel '81 is one of the most talented athletes to ever come through Gilman School. He won the C. Markland Kelly Award as Maryland's top high school lacrosse player in 1981 and went on to play on two National Championship teams as a midfielder at Johns Hopkins ('84) and ('85). A National Hall of Fame member, Del's one of only six college lacrosse players in history to be selected as a First Team All-American for four straight years. // In Episode #32, Jake and Del bring to light Del's fondest memories playing lacrosse at Johns Hopkins, the Blue Jays' undefeated season and mantra in 1984, Harvard for a year, transferring from McDonogh to Gilman, Del's teammates at Gilman, the legacy of Redmond C.S. Finney, Coach Dave Allan, the influence of basketball and football on Del's lacrosse game, Ben Carson, Tulane University School of Medicine, shifts in Del's career plans, psychiatry, and The Spirit in the Stick by Neil Duffy (2004) //
Enjoy the episode? Please spread the good word and follow @pathtofollowpod on all platforms. More to come! //
Many, many thanks to Cesare Ciccanti for his production magic. //
“The only wisdom we can hope to acquire is the wisdom of humility. Humility is endless.” - Four Quartets, T.S. Eliot //
Jay Brooks ‘10 is a United States Marine, Harvard graduate (‘14), and an aspiring doctor. He returned to Gilman in the spring of 2021 to teach a senior history elective, “Perspectives in Modern War.” //
In Episode #31 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Jay cover a variety of topics, including: transitioning out of the Marine Corps, returning to teach at Gilman for a semester, Jay’s course called “Perspectives in Modern War,” Tribe by Sebastian Junger (2016), Junger’s experiences in Afghanistan, unity borne from trauma, dependability and sacrifice, alienation in modern society, living through historical moments, national cohesion and lack thereof, Phil Clay’s short stories in Redeployment (2014), what inspired Jay to serve, balancing academics, athletics, and ROTC at Harvard, training for the Marine Corps, leadership lessons in the military, gripe up versus gripe down, the overlaps of sports and the military, John Wooden, whether leadership is innate or learned, courage as a habit, deployment to Iraq, the nonpartisan ethic of the military, Tulsi Gabbard and Dan Crenshaw, partnerships in the Middle East, the Sykes-Picot Agreement and borders in the Middle East, Jay’s fond memories as a student at Gilman, humility in T.S. Eliot’s Four Quartets, and the capacity to forgive. //
Enjoy the episode? Please subscribe, share, and follow the Path to Follow Podcast on all platforms: https://linktr.ee/Pathtofollowpod
Many thanks to the all-powerful Cesare Ciccanti for his efforts on production. //
Clare Lincoln is a French and Spanish teacher at Gilman School. She is a graduate of Pennsylvania State University and holds a master’s degree in French Literature from the University of Virginia. In her free time, Clare enjoys knitting, sewing, hiking, and traveling abroad. //
In Episode #30 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Clare discuss speaking French and Spanish, learning multiple languages, teaching at all-girls schools versus all-boys schools, journalism at Penn State, Clare’s master’s degree in French Literature, Notre Dame Preparatory School, connecting with colleagues during the pandemic, knitting and sewing as hobbies, hiking in Baltimore, traveling to the South of France, the rewards of rereading books, John Hathorne and the Salem Witch Trials, and Clare’s book recommendation: Maryse Condé’s I, Tituba, Black Witch of Salem (1986). //
Enjoy the episode? Please subscribe, share, and follow the Path to Follow Podcast on all platforms: https://linktr.ee/Pathtofollowpod. //
Many thanks to the all-powerful Cesare Ciccanti for his efforts on production.
Ryan Ruff Smith is the Tickner Writing Fellow at Gilman School. He has published both fiction and literary nonfiction in journals such as Ploughshares, Subtropics, Green Mountains Review, and New Ohio Review. One of his short stories, "The Disturbance," was listed in the Best American Short Stories 2017. Ryan's a native of Minneapolis, MN. He holds an MFA from the University of Florida and a Ph.D. in Creative Writing from the University of Cincinnati. //
In Episode #29 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Ryan discuss the process of creative writing, Ryan's short story "The Disturbance," ideas drawn from experience, reasons humans enjoy storytelling, the continual process of revision, the challenges of beginning a story versus ending one, "showing versus telling," the short fiction of Flannery O'Connor, Anton Chekhov, and John Cheever, the Writers at Work Series, Paragon (Gilman's award-winning literary magazine), and Ryan's book recommendation: The Collected Stories by Grace Paley. //
Enjoy the episode? Please subscribe, share, and follow the Path to Follow Podcast on all platforms: https://linktr.ee/Pathtofollowpod. //
Many thanks to the all-powerful Cesare Ciccanti for his work on production.
In Episode #1 of the Special Topics series of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and John Nostrant discuss the topic of BUILDING CHAMPIONSHIP CULTURE. //
John Nostrant is the Head Lacrosse Coach at Gilman School. He has built a legacy of success as athletic director and long-time lacrosse coach at the Haverford School in Pennsylvania. //
Enjoy the episode? Please follow the Path to Follow Podcast on all platforms.
https://linktr.ee/Pathtofollowpod
Many thanks to our phenomenal producer, Cesare Ciccanti.
“Don’t be afraid to make a path for yourself that is unique.” //
Julian Baron ‘17 is an extremely talented sports broadcaster, the face behind Greyhound TV’s resurgence, a Baltimore sports die-hard, and a senior at Syracuse’s Newhouse School of Public Communications. //
In Episode #27 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Julian discuss the reactivation of Greyhound TV, the intangibles of insightful broadcasting, Gary Thorne’s radio voice, the broadcasting style of Ryan Boyle ‘00, the difficulties of broadcasting sports you’ve never played, the atmosphere of volleyball games, teaching without condescending, Julian’s early interest in meteorology, the intersection between sports, news, and weather, Julian’s favorite GTV memories, Cesare Ciccanti’s mentorship, the unique identity of Baltimore, temperatures in Syracuse, what Gilman means to Julian, Mr. Culbertson’s math class, “If you think about it…,” seemingly minor moments that shape your perspective, reading and writing fiction with John Rowell, advice for the youth, “Everything converges,” the complexities of history, and Julian’s book recommendation about the mysterious circumstances of JFK’s assassination, “Hit List” by Richard Belzer. //
Enjoy the episode? Please subscribe to the Path to Follow YouTube channel and follow @pathtofollowpod on Spotify, Google Podcasts, Apple Podcasts, Instagram, and Twitter. //
A huge thank you to the engine behind production, Cesare Ciccanti.
"What are we doing if we're not trying to get better at what we're doing?" //
Bryn Holmes is the Head Wrestling Coach and Assistant Athletic Director at Gilman School. He's a family man, former Maryland Terp, assistant lacrosse coach, and McDonogh School alum. //
In Episode #27, Jake and Bryn discuss Bryn's transition from a McDonogh student to a Gilman teacher, growing up a multi-sport athlete, generalization versus specialization in athletics, the influence of siblings on competition, the mentality of a wrestler, cutting weight, the challenges of playing sports in college, the inadvertent whistle in the 2009 7-OT Maryland/Virginia game, important lessons learned from losing, becoming a dad, and Bryn's children's book recommendations, including his most-read, Alice Schertle's "Little Blue Truck." //
Enjoy the episode? Please subscribe to the YouTube channel and recommend the podcast to a friend. And don't forget to follow @pathtofollowpod on all platforms. Many more episodes to come! //
As always, thank you for listening and to Cesare Ciccanti for working technical wonders.
"My job really isn't to teach [students] pre-calculus. My job really isn't to get them to win the 100-meter dash. My job is to be a support for them, to serve them, and to look out for their best interests. And that's what I try really hard to do every day." //
Jeff Gouline '00 is the Chair of the Mathematics Department at Gilman School and a character education coach for student-athletes. He's a committed mentor, devoted advisor, talented pastry chef, long-distance runner, and the antithesis of a box-checker. //
In Episode #26 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Jeff discuss supporting students emotionally during the pandemic, misconceptions about math, being an athlete at Swarthmore College, the unlikely combination of math and history at UVA, Upward Bound under Bill Greene, Montgomery Bell Academy in Nashville, Jeff's first day of teaching, impactful teachers during Jeff's time as a Gilman student, Peter Julius's writing standards, deeper meanings in literature, Jordan Peterson on life as a series of games, team versus individual sports, the reason schools emphasize athletics, the philosophy of Joe Ehrmann, manhood as a structure, Jeff's daily motivations, having a deeper sense of purpose, the power of listening, Jeff's life-altering experience reading "The Heart is a Lonely Hunter" by Carson McCullers, and apple pot pie! //
Enjoy the episode? Don't forget to subscribe and follow @pathtofollowpod on all platforms. Many more episodes to come! //
Thank you for listening! And as always, thank you to Cesare Ciccanti for the visuals.
Why are libraries important? Why read in the first place? What do librarians do? All of these questions (and more!) are answered here. //
Diane Fuller is the Director of Libraries at Gilman School. She has always loved books, and after working as an archivist, discovered she could turn a passion into a profession. //
In Episode #25 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Diane discuss recent changes in Gilman's Edward R. Fenimore Jr. Library, Young Adult (YA) Books, banned books, why it's sometimes okay to judge a book by its cover, how Diane became a librarian, how the Fenimore Library has changed over time, the process of organizing a library, e-books versus print, "Green Lights" by Matthew McConaughey, audiobooks read by authors, the Gilman News school newspaper, arts at Gilman, and Diane's two book recommendations: "Small Great Things" (2016) and "Thirteen Reasons Why" (2007) by Jay Asher. //
Enjoy the episode? Please follow the Path to Follow Podcast (@pathtofollowpod) on all platforms. There's so much more content coming your way. //
A special thank you to our listeners. Nothing would happen without the work of all-powerful Cesare Ciccanti.
“If you were a podcast host and could have somebody [from history] on to talk to, is there an individual who sticks out?” //
Matt Baum ‘93 is the History Department Chair at Gilman School and teaches two courses: 10th grade “Making of Modern Europe” and a 12th grade elective, “U.S. Since 1960.” He coaches basketball and golf, and loves “end[ing] every day on a court or a field.” //
In Episode #24 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Matt discuss debate-oriented discussions, activity variation in the classroom, memorable quotes from Dan Christian, tri-school coordination, the influence of Jerry Thornberry, living through history, Netflix-browsing paralysis, "Bobby Kennedy for President," JFK’s assassination and whether Lee Harvey Oswald acted alone, Joe Rogan’s open mind, Alexander Hamilton’s opinion of the Broadway musical, "John Adams" on HBO, the brilliance of Thomas Jefferson, the absurdities of the Vietnam War, Tim O’Brien’s "The Things They Carried," LBJ’s commitment to civil rights, Bryan Cranston in "All the Way," distrust of institutions today, the insanity of 2020, Modern Family, and Matt’s book recommendation, "The Unwinding" by George Packer (2013). //
Order "The Unwinding" by George Packer: https://www.amazon.com/Unwinding-Inner-History-New-America/dp/0374534608 // I hope you enjoyed the episode. Please subscribe and follow @pathtofollowpod on all platforms. //
If you’d like to stay updated in a more personal way, sign up for the Path to Follow monthly newsletter here: https://pathtofollowpodcast.substack.com/embed //
Big ups to Cesare Ciccanti for all of his hard work!
"I don't want to be a teacher who gets forgotten along the way. I want to make sure I'm staying with [Gilman students] through [their] pivotal growth moments." //
Chris Bendann ‘03 is a Gilman “lifer,” middle school ancient history teacher, admissions coordinator, Skidmore College graduate, shot put athlete, avid world traveller, and beloved mentor. //
On Episode #23 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Chris discuss teaching middle school students during the pandemic, Chris’s time at Gilman as a “thirteen-year man,” his favorite memories and influences, shot put under the legendary Mr. Johnny Foreman, ancient Greece and Rome, traveling to Istanbul, Athenian versus Spartan values, root languages and Latin, what “success” means and the role others play in one’s personal successes, what separates Gilman, the longevity of Chris’s advisory, Reddy Finney headstands, our perception of heroes versus villains, and Chris’s book recommendation, Circe by Madeline Miller (2018). //
Order Circe by Madeline Miller: https://www.amazon.com/CIRCE-New-York-Times-bestseller/dp/0316556343
Enjoy the episode? Please subscribe and follow @pathtofollowpod on all platforms. //
If you’d like to stay updated in a more personal way, sign up for the monthly newsletter! https://pathtofollowpodcast.substack.... //
As always, thank you to Cesare Ciccanti for all of his efforts on the technical end.
"COVID unfortunately shut down so many things. The silver lining for me is that my dad and I get to work on [baseball] daily, and we get to put in hours of time. And it's really cool, not just in the sense that I have a great baseball mind [that I get to work with] - that's a blessing. And the other blessing is I get to have more father-son time...I definitely don't take that for granted." //
Ryan Ripken '12 is a proud Gilman School alum, first basemen for the Baltimore Orioles organization, absolute presence on the pick-up basketball court, and overall class act. //
On Episode #22 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Ryan cover everything from similarities between different sports, to coaching tips from Cal Ripken Jr., to overcoming failure in competitive baseball, to Ryan's book recommendation, Daniel James Brown's The Boys in the Boat. //
Enjoy the episode? Excellent. Please return for many more to come. And don't forget to subscribe and follow @pathtofollowpod on all channels.
ALSO - the Path to Follow Podcast has a brand new newsletter. The top ten unmissable podcast topics will appear in your inbox on the last day of every month. Sign up here! https://pathtofollowpodcast.substack.com/embed //
And as always, shoutout to the legendary Cesare Ciccanti for being a legend.
"When you see [someone], you're really only seeing a snippet of who they are..." //
It was an educational hour with Ms. Sarah Lloyd - an art history and history teacher at Gilman School, swimming and water polo coach, former Penn Fellow, Kenyon Lady '17, Peddie School Falcon '13, and scholar on all things pirates, Dutch paintings, and African-American art history. //
In this eclectic episode of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Sarah touch on the Lloyd family business, Sarah's experience as a NCAA athlete and swimmer at Kenyon College, time-management skills learned through sports, growing up on-campus at Peddie School in Hightstown, NJ, Black Beard and Sir Henry Morgan, the Baroque Period, Caravaggio and "The Calling of St. Matthew" (1599-1600), Vermeer and "The Girl with the Pearl Earring" (1665), Rembrandt's etchings, the French Academy, Monticello and neoclassical architecture, whether or not "Salvador Mundi" (1500) was painted by da Vinci, Jean-Michel Basquiat's disturbed genius, Sarah's book recommendation: The Fire This Time (2016) by Jesmyn Ward, David Foster Wallace's incredible commencement speech at Kenyon, and global citizenship. //
The Fire This Time (2016) by Jesmyn Ward - https://www.amazon.com/Fire-This-Time-Generation-Speaks/dp/1501126350 Enjoy the episode? Please become a loyal subscriber and follower of @pathtofollowpod on all channels. Merch coming at you soon. //
Big thanks to the great Cesare Ciccanti and his technical artistry.
"I went to Ghana, and that was what shifted my trajectory...There is so much that we share in common with one another that we don't think about very often." //
Erika Cabrera is a Penn Fellow at Gilman School where she teaches middle school geography and U.S. History. She attended Dartmouth College, studied sociology, played rugby, and traveled to Ghana and the Dominican Republic on service trips. //
In Episode #20 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Erika discuss what it's like to teach middle school students, the differences between football and rugby, Erika's passion for teaching history, life-changing experiences in Ghana, traveling abroad through Dartmouth, service projects in the Dominican Republic, Erika's first visit to Gilman, frequently-used teaching strategies in the middle school classroom, the Penn Fellowship and Erika's year-long inquiry project on critical thinking about history, Abraham Lincoln's virtues and downfalls, how humans perceive history, and James Loewen's Lies My Teacher Told Me. //
Enjoy the episode? Please make sure you subscribe and follow @pathtofollowpod on YouTube, Spotify, Google Podcasts, PodBean, Instagram, and Twitter. //
As always, thank you to the great and powerful Cesare Ciccanti for his technical expertise.
"That's probably the best thing about Gilman...having faculty and staff who are just so dedicated to helping their students and to what they're teaching." //
Tucker Hebert '21 is the school president at Gilman, a soccer and lacrosse player, budding history buff, future Wahoo, and the linchpin of the 2021 class; he's lived in South Africa, read Joyce's Ulysses with Patrick Hastings, and recently delivered a stunning senior speech on isolation during COVID-19. In Episode #19 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Tucker discuss the challenges of leading the student body in 2020, Tucker's digital campaign for presidency, proactivity as a skill, the college essay writing process, navigating the college search through virtual tours, Tucker's senior speech on living abroad in South Africa, athletics in the MIAA, how exciting volleyball games are, Tucker's role models at Gilman, reading Ulysses with Patrick Hastings, Hemingway's Farewell to Arms, Tucker's passion for history, the student perspective on virtual learning, and Path to Follow dri-fit apparel (on the way!). //
Thanks for tuning in! If you enjoyed the episode, there's more. Check out @pathtofollowpod on all social media platforms, and don't forget to give us a follow. //
A special shout out to Cesare Ciccanti for his technical expertise.
"What we really hope students think about are all those variables of 'fit' [in the college process]." //
Anna Follensbee is a college counselor, director of Senior Encounter at Gilman, former 10th-grade English teacher, Franklin & Marshall graduate, voracious reader, Vermont native, and nature-lover. //
In Episode #18 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Anna discuss Senior Encounter at Gilman, Anna's professional background in college admissions, factors high school seniors should consider in selecting the "right" college for them, Anna's upbringing in Vermont and her decision to attend Franklin & Marshall, the effects of high expectations on the mental health of students, mindfulness meditation, the art of crafting the college essay, assembling the mosaic of the "whole student" in the college application process, the necessities and downfalls of standardized testing, and The Girl with the Louding Voice by Abi Daré. //
Thanks for checking out the episode! Please like, share, subscribe, and follow on all digital avenues - @pathtofollowpod. //
As always, thank you to the great Cesare Ciccanti for his hard work and expertise.
"Isn't it exciting that your love for reading can be transferred into teaching?" //
John Rowell is a talented writer, passionate English teacher, brilliant stage director, lifelong Truman Capote admirer, chronic book-buyer, and the first person to realize there will never be another Snow Day. He's a dear friend and beloved colleague, and this could just be the best episode yet. //
In Episode #17 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and John discuss Sondheim and Weidman's award-winning musical Assassins, the bizarre story of Charles Guiteau, the enormous literary influence of Truman Capote, Capote's "A Christmas Memory" and In Cold Blood, life-altering learning experiences, exuding passion in the classroom, the secrets to assembling and directing amazing school musicals, the similarities between stage direction in theatre and offensive coordination in lacrosse, Shirley Jackson's "The Lottery" (spoiler alert), the universality of literary themes, reading for pleasure as English teachers, John's patent on the end of Snow Days, shorting Zoom when the vaccines arrive, and adapting to the 2020 classroom. //
Thanks for checking out the episode! Please like, share, subscribe, and follow on all digital avenues - @pathtofollowpod. //
As always, shouts to the powerful Cesare Ciccanti for his technical genius.
Larry Sheets is a former MLB outfielder for the Baltimore Orioles, Detroit Tigers, and Seattle Mariners. He's currently a Lower School teacher and the Head Baseball Coach at Gilman School. //
In Episode #16 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Larry discuss lessons from the New Zealand All Blacks in James Kerr's Legacy, the glory days of the Baltimore Orioles, life lessons learned from a career in baseball, the influence of Cal Ripken Jr., "defense-first" mindsets, baseball coaching strategies, how the sport has changed, motivating all-stars to "sweep the sheds," the future of Gilman Baseball and the upcoming season, the 1989 Orioles, and the character required to claw out of a slump. //
Thank you for listening! Please subscribe to the YouTube channel and follow @pathtofollowpod on Spotify, Instagram, Twitter, Google Podcasts, and PodBean. //
Shout out to our brilliant tech guru, Cesare Ciccanti.
"Own it, try to learn from it, and be better the next play." - Tim Holley '77 //
Tim Holley '77 is a Gilman School titan, legendary storyteller, Penn Quaker, long-time athletic director, baseball-lover turned lacrosse dad, English teacher, and dedicated golfer. Most importantly, Mr. Holley is a man of high character. //
In Episode #15 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Tim talk about Tim's launchpad as a Gilman student, his several role models growing up, the hardest and most time-consuming game he's ever tried to play, the importance of moving on from mistakes, his service in the Navy, Julius Caesar analogies, and rediscovery through reading. //
Enjoy the episode? Subscribe to the #PTF YouTube channel and follow @pathtofollowpod on Spotify, Google Podcasts, PodBean, Instagram, and Twitter. //
Shouts to Cesare Ciccanti for his skills, time, and hard work.
Kevin Hudson is a history teacher at Gilman, World War I & II expert, Bible Study leader, assistant lacrosse coach, influential student advisor, and esteemed travel guide. //
In Episode #14 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Kevin discuss Viktor Frankl’s Man’s Search for Meaning, the human capacity for evil, the rise of Adolf Hitler in Germany, Nazi propaganda, Kevin’s WWI & II course curriculum, the flaws and biases of our perception of the past, Kevin’s experience living in London for ten years, his time at Westminster School in Atlanta, and the blessing of teaching, coaching, and advising at Gilman School. //
Enjoy this episode? Please subscribe to the Youtube channel and follow @pathtofollowpod on Spotify, Google Podcasts, PodBean, Instagram, and Twitter. //
This production was made possible by the skillful mastery of Cesare Ciccanti.
Justin Baker is an English teacher, college counselor, baseball coach, guitar player, blues music enthusiast, failed Buddhist, and Cormac McCarthy admirer. //
In Episode #13 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Justin dive into Justin’s love for playing guitar, his favorite musical artists, Sylvia Plath, reading Vonnegut’s Slaughterhouse-Five for the first time, how reading inspires creativity, starting a band in college, how “I don’t have an opinion” is an acceptable position in an argument, entertainment versus spirituality, Cormac McCarthy’s Blood Meridian, and the “fertile ground” of Gilman School. //
Enjoy the episode? Check out @pathtofollowpod on YouTube, Spotify, Google Podcasts, PodBean, Instagram, and Twitter. //
Shout out to the powerful Cesare Ciccanti for his technical mastery.
Rob Heubeck is Head of the Upper School at Gilman School, a 12th grade history and philosophy teacher, baseball coach, UFC fan, and an instrumental figure in planning Gilman’s return to school during COVID-19. //
In Episode #12 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Rob discuss the complexities of planning Gilman’s course of action during the pandemic, mental health and the importance of finding catharsis, Fyodor Dostoevsky’s Notes from the Underground, the personalities of 20th-century intellectuals, Larry David and Curb Your Enthusiasm, Boo Smith at John Carroll, rugby at James Madison, Rob’s memories as Head of Instructional Technology “when the Cloud was dangerous,” essential “new world skills” for the digital world, the importance of failure and recovery, and how COVID is forcing us to “operate in the mess.” //
Enjoy the episode? Please follow @pathtofollowpodcast on YouTube, Spotify, Google Podcasts, PodBean, Twitter, and Instagram. More to come! //
A special thank you to the gifted Cesare Ciccanti!
How are kindergartners faring during the pandemic? Allow Ms. Dia Matthews to explain....
Dia Matthews is a Lower School reading and art teacher at Gilman, field hockey and lacrosse coach at Bryn Mawr School, ex-two-sport athlete at University of Richmond, avid runner, and a joyful guest on the Path to Follow Podcast.
In Episode #11, Jake and Dia discuss how children are handling the COVID-19 pandemic, the contagious energy of a kindergarten classroom, how it took Picasso “four years to paint like Raphael, but a lifetime to paint like a child,” the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel, the overlapping skill set required to play field hockey and lacrosse, Dia’s first conversation with Reddy Finney, the concept of “pre-first,” and the fun of competition. //
Looking for additional paths to follow? Subscribe to @pathtofollowpod on YouTube, Spotify, Google Podcasts, PodBean, Instagram, and Twitter. //
As always, thank you to our consistently dialed-in chief of tech, Cesare Ciccanti.
Ms. Beth Knapp is an English teacher, enthusiastic Jesmyn Ward disciple, graduate of the Bread Loaf School of English, “steward of belonging” and co-director of the Finney-Greene Program, head of the One Love Foundation at Gilman School, and an absolute rockstar of a podcast guest.
In Episode #10 of the Path to Follow Podcast, Jake and Beth discuss the entrenched role of education in Beth’s life, her philosophy on giving and receiving criticism, her experience as a woman teaching at an all-boys school, the expensive process of teaching students to write clearly, Gilman School’s Finney-Greene Program, the benefits to rereading literature, and how “What’s your favorite book?” is a blasphemous question to ask a literature lover. //
Enjoy the episode? Please follow the Path to Follow Podcast (@pathtofollowpod) on YouTube, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Twitter, and Instagram. //
A special thank you to our technology specialist, Mr. Cesare Ciccanti.
Señor Matt Zealand is a Spanish teacher, baseball and soccer coach, world traveler, literature lover, newspaper editor, and elite pick-up basketball player.
In Episode #9 of the Path to Follow (PTF) Podcast, Jake and Matt cover a breadth of subjects. They discuss Matt's life-changing experiences in Spain, the inextricable tie between culture and language, the intensity of Uraguayan author Horatio Quiroga, the majesty of Machu Picchu, the value of playing multiple sports, and the influence of media on the US political landscape. //
Enjoy the episode? Please follow @pathtofollowpod on Instagram, Twitter, Spotify, PodBean, and Google Podcasts. And don't forget to subscribe to the YouTube channel! //
A special shout out to the great and powerful producer, Cesare Ciccanti.
Such an honor to speak to one of the most unique and interesting people at Gilman School, Mr. Robby Ford. Robby is a man of countless talents; he's a math teacher, ex-football player, track coach, pianist, singer, conductor, and world traveller. The list goes on!
In Episode #8 of the Path to Follow (PTF) Podcast, Robby explains what attracted him to Gilman after growing up on-campus at rival school McDonogh, the role models who continue to inspire him, the transformative effects of traveling, and how his "musical identity" was formed at a young age.
He vividly recalls his unforgettable memories conducting the National Anthem at the 100th Gilman/McDonogh football game and attending Mahler's Symphony No. 2 in Vienna. Enjoy! //
Please LIKE this video and FOLLOW @pathtofollowpod on YouTube, Twitter, PodBean, and IG. //
A huge thank you to the gifted podcast producer, Cesare Ciccanti.
Mr. Patrick Hastings has read James Joyce's Ulysses upwards of twenty times, and he plans to continue to read the novel every day for the rest of his life. Aren't you curious why?
In Episode #7 of the Path to Follow (PTF) Podcast, Jake and Patrick discuss the brilliance of James Joyce. Patrick shares a very exciting announcement, discusses how he became a Joycean, details his experiences in Dublin, and explains the captivating essence of Ulysses.
Anyone who has attempted to read Ulysses knows the novel is far from a summer beach read. It's one of the most important and difficult books ever written. And who better to explain its significance than lifelong Joycean, Gilman English Department Chair, teacher, coach, and author: Mr. Patrick Hastings. Enjoy! //
Please follow @pathtofollowpod on YouTube, Twitter, PodBean, and IG. //
A special shout out to Cesare Ciccanti, the technology guru.
Hell of an episode with Brooks Matthews. The man is the epitome of what a teacher-coach should be: passionate, disciplined, and driven.
In Episode #6, Jake and Brooks discuss Gilman's hybrid learning model, Brooks's fondest memories as a student-athlete at Gilman, some of the best players to ever lace up for the Hounds, the essence of true leadership, and the presidency of Teddy Roosevelt. //
Enjoy the episode? Please follow @pathtofollowpod on YouTube, Twitter, PodBean, and IG. More audio-only channels coming soon. //
And as always, a massive thank you to Cesare Ciccanti for his savvy tech magic.
It was an absolute pleasure to speak with Ms. Johanna Schein on Episode #5 of the Path to Follow (PTF) Podcast.
Johanna is the school archivist at Gilman School and has significantly contributed to the historical documentation of Gilman since its founding. //
In the episode, Jake and Johanna discuss the Walter Lord ('35) Collection, the origin of Johanna's interest in archives, the Open Air School that Gilman started in 1911 to combat contagious diseases, the accessibility of digital records, and the importance of tradition. //
Enjoy this podcast episode? Subscribe to the channel, like this video, and follow the Path to Follow Podcast on Twitter (@pathtofollowpodcast). //
A special thank you to Mr. Cesare Ciccanti for his technological wizardry. //
Episode #4 of the Path to Follow (PTF) Podcast with Ms. Drew Davis was a ton of fun. Drew is a first-year faculty member, 9th and 10th grade English teacher, and track & field coach at Gilman. She recently graduated from the UPenn Fellowship Program after teaching for two years at St. Paul's School in Concord, New Hampshire.
Among other topics, Jake and Drew discuss Drew's transition from boarding to day school, the value of asking questions - even if there are no definite answers, which social media platforms teenagers are using today (hint: Twitter is old news), and what it's like to be a female teacher at an all-boys school. //
Enjoy this podcast episode? Subscribe to the channel, like the video, and follow the Path to Follow Podcast on Twitter (@pathtofollowpodcast). //
A massive thank you to Cesare Ciccanti for his technological expertise. //
In Episode #3 of the Path to Follow (PTF) Podcast, Jake speaks with Mr. Ned Emala. Ned is the epitome of a "Renaissance Man." He graduated from Gilman in 2013 and returned in 2019 as an Upper School World Cultures and Art History teacher. He also coaches three sports: football, squash, and lacrosse.
In the episode, Jake and Ned explore what it means to "Be Gilman," how the Blue & Grey are part of Ned's identity, and the many life lessons learned through athletics. Ned also shares what the legacy of his grandfather, Mr. Redmond C.S. Finney, means to him. //
Enjoy this podcast episode? Subscribe to the channel, like the video, and follow the Path to Follow Podcast on Twitter (@pathtofollowpodcast). //
A massive shout out to Cesare Ciccanti for his technological expertise. //
In Episode #2 of the Path to Follow (PTF) Podcast, Jake speaks with Coach John Nostrant. John is in his second year as the Head Lacrosse Coach at Gilman School. He also teaches Upper School World Cultures and helps coach middle school football.
In the episode, Jake and John dive into John's coaching philosophy, recall the many successes he found at Haverford School, describe "the soul" of Gilman School, and invoke "Coach Nody's" fond lacrosse memories. //
Enjoy this podcast episode? Subscribe to the channel, like the video, and follow the Path to Follow Podcast on Twitter (@pathtofollowpodcast). //
A massive shout out to Cesare Ciccanti for his technological expertise. //
In Episode #1 of the Path to Follow (PTF) Podcast, Jake speaks with Mr. Brian Ledyard. Brian is the Assistant Head of the Upper School at Gilman, Upper School English teacher, assistant lacrosse coach, and Penn Fellowship mentor.
Among other topics, Jake and Brian discuss the roots of Brian's career in education, "good" teaching strategies, and the many difficulties of planning Gilman's reopening during COVID-19. //
Enjoy this podcast episode? Subscribe to the channel, like this video, and follow the Path to Follow Podcast on Twitter (@pathtofollowpodcast). //
Thank you to Mr. Cesare Ciccanti for his technological brilliance. //