NCWHS podCATS: Recent Episodes
Normal West Business Department
Welcome to the Normal West podcast, or as we like to call it, podCATS, we talk about things that are happening in and around the school or just discuss random topics that come to mind. Feel free to stop by and stay a while.
Season 3 - Episode 3 Part 1
Celebrating West - Wall of Fame Inductees
No Co-Hosts this week - just an opportunity to interview some legends at Normal West. Part 1 is an interview with 2024 Wildcat Wall of Fame Inductees Mandy Garner (Class of 2001) and Drew (Andrew) Loy (Class of 2016). Don’t miss this opportunity to find out more about these two very talented and well-deserving Wildcats and their journey from their Wildcat days to their current lives as extremely successful adults! Part 2 will drop in a few days and will include an interview with all 4 Normal West Principals.
Co-Hosts Benedicte Diamonika and Faithe Streily joined Mr. Burgess and Mr. Franz to discuss Homecoming 2024, including some tips to help have the best experience at the dance, as well as other homecoming activities such as decorating, PowderPuff and the assembly. (0:00-15:03) Next, Mr. Franz was joined by Senior Board advisors Sara Maynerich and Abby Primo and Senior Board President Bailey Vaux to talk about all of the planning that goes into Homecoming. (15:04-28:17) The episode concluded with a bracket-style tournament of Homecoming Themes - listen and find out what theme won! (28:25-49:47)
What is an Interventionist? What do they do at West? Who are they? Find out the answer to these questions in the most recent installment to the PodCATS Department Spotlight.
Co-Hosts Cooper Franz and Evan Pattelli joined Mr. Burgess and Mr. Franz to discuss what they were most looking forward to this school year (0:00-14:30). Next, Mr. Burgess and Mr. Franz welcomed guests Leah Marlene, recording artist and Normal West grad, and Sara Williams, Choir Director at Normal West. Topics included Leah’s musical journey, including her time on American Idol and her impression left at West through the Respect 49 song, as well as where her career is headed (14:39-52:32). The podcast ends with a snake draft of “must haves” when camping and a brief audio clip of Respect 49.
This is our longest podcast in PodCATS history, but is WELL WORTH the time to listen or watch!
Co-hosts Natalie Nenne and Mallory Witzemann join the show for the final time to discuss several topics such as their most impactful classes and teachers and their favorite experiences from Normal West (0:00-9:48) . Next, MTSS Coordinator Rexie Lanier joins the show to talk about her teaching career and what she’ll be doing in retirement (9:49-30:27). We finish with a discussion about “Things we just don’t understand”. Help teachers! (30:28-54:01). Enjoy!
Don't miss this opportunity to get to know three members of the Normal West Math Department, including Mrs. Saal, Ms. Kraus and Mr. Hatzer.
Co-hosts Ben Jorczak and Zion Russell join the show to discuss several topics such as their future endeavors and their most impactful classes and teachers (0:00-12:18) . Next, we are joined by Normal West Assistant Principal, Mr. Gliege to discuss his time at West and his future in education (12:19-36:36). We finish with a sports game called “Start, bench, cut” (36:37-54:19). Enjoy!
Please don't miss this opportunity to find out more about the Foreign Language Department and teachers Frau Higby, Senora Galvan and Madame Klieber.
Co-hosts Corinna Thomas and Sofi Benitez join the show to discuss several topics such as the eclipse, how they prepared for the SAT and our thoughts on cell phones in the classroom (0:00 - 23:14). Next, we interview Mrs. Karen Shaw, Seth Meyer and Faith Streily to discuss the upcoming Spring Musical, Shrek. (23:24 - 44:17). We end the podcast with “Random Trivia”. (44:28 - 59:36) Enjoy!
This week's department spotlight is with the Family and Consumer Sciences department. We are joined by Mrs. Lehr, Mrs. Suddarth and Mrs. Webster. Take a listen and get to know more about how they became teachers, what they love about teaching Family and Consumer Sciences and what their hobbies are outside of school! Enjoy!
This week's department spotlight is with the English department. We are joined by Mrs. Gerard, Mrs. Mackinson and Mr. Kroesch. Take a listen and get to know more about how they became teachers, what they love about teaching English and what their hobbies are outside of school! Enjoy!
Co-hosts Mallory Witzemann and Natalie Nenne join the show to discuss all the clubs at NCWHS we have available, how to join them, and how to start one (0:00 - 13:04). Next, we interview Mrs. Natalie Spath, Voltaire Grant, and Leah Smolen to discuss the return of The Paw Print (13:10 - 34:26). We end the podcast with a “Spring Trivia” and talk a lot about flowers! (34:32 - 48:36) Enjoy!
In this Department Spotlight, we interview Art teacher Ali Acuyz, Julie Hinman and Kailey Peterson. Don't miss this opportunity to get to know more about the Art Department, its teachers and what the department has to offer.
Co-hosts Zion Russell and Ben Jorczak join the show to discuss how they’re dealing with senioritis and give their perspectives on it (0:00 - 9:22). Next, we have a friendly competition that revolves around the Super Bowl props and make our predictions for the big game (9:32-18:50). Next, we interview cheer coaches Anna Peterson and Lily Givens along with Bode Reed, Charli Wright and Lindsey Stoewer to discuss their state cheer competition (18:59-37:52). We end the podcast by having a draft of our most necessary apps if we were stranded on a desert island (38:00-52:04). Enjoy!
Special thanks to Evan Pattelli and Cooper Franz for their work as Producer and Sound Engineer!
Every other week, on weeks that the traditional podCATS podcast is not dropped, we will spotlight one or two departments at Normal West. In these spotlights we will get to know some of the teachers, courses, and other important elements of that department. We are starting with the Business Department and are interviewing Mrs. Maynerich, Mr. Matthews and Mr. Piepenbrink. We hope you enjoy these spotlights!
Ms. Angie Codron, Ms. Becky Frangella, E-Learning Discussion and Pet Peeves
Co-hosts Corinna Thomas and Sofi Benitez join the show to discuss what they like and dislike about e-learning (0:00 - 14:37). Next, we are joined by our Principal Ms. Angie Codron and our Associate Principal, Ms. Becky Frangella to talk about their new roles at West and get to know them a little bit more (14:50 - 40:51). We then finish with a discussion about our biggest pet peeves.
Co-hosts Natalie Nenne and Mallory Witzemann join the show to discuss growing up and what they notice about their transition into adulthood. (0:00 - 16:44). Next, we are joined by former Normal West Principal, Dave Johnson, to see how he is doing in his new role as Superintendent at Fieldcrest and find out what he misses about West (16:53-31:26). We then finish with a game of “Disney Trivia” (31:35-43:00). Enjoy!
New co-hosts Ben Jorczak and Zion Russell join the show to discuss school safety within the building. (0:00 - 19:12). Next, we are joined by Officer Cowley to discuss the school safety issue from his perspective and he gives important advice(19:20 - 37:10). Mr. Burgess is then joined by Zion, Ben and Mr. Matthews to play some generational trivia. Who will come out on top? (37:20 - 49:39).
Sofi Benitez and Corinna Thomas join the show and discuss what it’s like to be a senior and how it’s different from last year (0:00 - 21:28). Next, we are joined by Coach Mueller, Ellie Rink and Reanne Cupples to discuss their super successful year so far (21:29-36:55). The crew finishes up having a “favorite things about fall” draft. (36:56-49:18).
Natalie Nenne, Mallory Witzemann, and Mrs. Maynerich join the show for the 1st time and discuss how Homecoming went and what they enjoyed most. The group also discusses their take on the Travis Kelce-Taylor Swift “relationship” (0:00 - 14:14). Next, Mr. Franz is joined by Trey Frost and Sam Beirne to discuss their experiences as Homecoming Royalty and what it meant to them. (14:25-23:00). The crew finishes up with a game called “finish the lyric” (23:05-28:44).
One this weeks episode we take a little behind the scenes interview with our producer and editor Carter Brown as well as music producer TJ Kelley. (0:00 - 12:09) Then we are joined by Miss Amy Copple and Lisa Tomlin to reflect on old times, say goodbye and wish them luck in their retirement, (12:19 - 46:57) finally we wrap things up by saying good bye to you all as this is the final Episode of season one. (47:37 - END)This has been a wonderful experience and I'm extremely touched that so many of you listened to our stupid little podcast, really it means the world to not only me but to every member of the crew. I hope you'll join us next year for more goofy games, interesting interviews, and foolish facts. Until next time, remember it's a great day to be a wildcat!~ Carter Brown, Class of 2023
On this weeks episode we are joined by Ian Jirk , Ashlyn Hicks & Sydney Sennett to reflect on the time spent and highschool and give some advice to the upcoming freshmen. Next we welcome on the two school psychologists, Kim Wilson and Lauren Goveia to talk about mental health. Make sure to tune in next week for the final episode of this season and of the school year!
On this weeks episode we’re joined by Sofi Benitez and Corinna Thomas to talk about news happening around the school(0:00 - 11:48) We’re then joined by Mrs. Ruff to discuss the prom planning process and the challenges involved with organizing such a big event. (12:02 - 18:50 stamp) Finally, We wrap up by playing a jeopardy style game and guessing fun facts with various degrees of confidence. (19:00 - end)
Ian Jirik joins the show to discuss spring break and how students can keep their minds sharp over break as well as minimize “senioritis” (0:00 - 12:56). Next, Mr. Burgess is joined by head softball coach April Schermann and senior Katie Poehlman to discuss their expectations for the softball season (13:01 - 30:39). Following that, Mr. Franz and Mrs. Maynerich interview Sara Williams and Seth Meyer to discuss the jazz voice and their contributions to the Normal West Music Program (30:45 - 45:59). The crew finishes up with a “favorite things about spring” draft. Enjoy!
Our two new co-hosts, Tyler Piazza and Jack Rood join the show to discuss their plans after high school along with a quick discussion about the upcoming referendum (0:00 - 13:32). Next, Mr. Matthews & Mr. Burgess are joined by Amaya Hursey to discuss her involvement as President of Black Student Union, “Not in Our School”, and Promise Council (13:43 - 27:51). Lastly, Mr. Burgess, Mr. Franz, Tyler & Jack do a “draft” of their favorite teachers they have had throughout their time at Normal West(28:01-42:38). Enjoy!
Ashlyn Hicks co-hosts the podcast with Mr. Franz and Mr. Burgess to go through “Celebrating the Cats” and all the accomplishments that have occurred the last month (0:00 - 9.00). Next, Mr. Franz & Mr. Burgess are joined by Kevin Pascal to discuss his battle with cancer and what the donation money has meant to him (9:10 - 19:54). Also, Mr. Franz and Mr. Burgess are joined by the 2023 King of Hearts, Jayden Mangruem as well as Sydney Young to discuss how the competition went (20:04 - 35:16). Lastly, Mr. Burgess & Mr. Franz are joined by Mr. Piepenbrink and Ashlyn to discuss “Things that they are Elite at” (35:26 -50:59). Enjoy!
Ian Jirk and Mallory Witzemann, join the podcast as co-hosts to discuss why more people should join school clubs and activities (0:00 - 9:12). Next, Mr. Franz & Mr. Burgess are joined by Mrs. Condron to discuss her current job as an assistant principle and her promotion to principle next year (9:18 - 25:21) Lastly, Mr. Burgess, Mr. Franz, Ian & Mallory have a very lively conversation about some their own most embarrassing moments (25:28 - 36:55)
Sofi Benitez & Corinna Thomas join the podcast as co-hosts to discuss what ultimately makes a good teacher in their eyes (0:00 - 14:07). Next, Mr. Franz & Mr. Burgess are joined by Mr. Rumps and Josue Rojas to discuss how the boxing club got started and why it has been so impactful to those in it (14:17 - 35:00). Lastly, Mr. Burgess, Mr. Franz, Sofi & Corinna draft and debate the best winter activities (35:09 - 51:56)
Sydney Sennett & Ashlyn Hicks join the podcast as co-hosts to talk about their senioritis with Mr. Franz and Mr. Burgess (0:00 -3:42). Next, Mr. Piepenbrink & Mr. Burgess are joined by Mr. Klokkenga and Braelyn Sauder to discuss what the Freshman Mentoring Program means to them (3:51 - 19:11). Lastly, Mr. Burgess, Mr. Franz, Sydney & Ashlyn discuss their thoughts on the recent changes with snow days, course selection (19:21 - 32:04) and they finish with a game of “this or that” (32:14 - 47:09) Enjoy!
Mallory Witzemann and Sofi Benitez join the podcast as co-hosts to talk about their thoughts on finals with Mr. Burgess and Mr. Franz (0:00 -12:13). Next, Mr. Franz & Mr. Burgess are joined by Coach Hafermann and Kylen Smith to discuss the big Intercity basketball win and the upcoming season (12:23 - 33:36). Then, Mr. Matthews and Mr. Piepenbrink are joined by Coach Dunn, Meredith Bertsche and Ashley Wilcox to discuss the girls basketball season (33:47 - 43:34). The crew finishes up with a little holiday trivia! (43:45 - 1:00:52) Enjoy!
Ian Jirik & Corinna Thomas join the podcast as co-hosts to talk about what went on at West last week and what you have to look forward to next week throughout the school (0:00 - 3:40). Next, Mr. Franz & Mr. Burgess are joined by Mrs. Traci Verdrey to discuss her Channel 25 award as well as her Thanksgiving favorites and recommendations (3:50 - 18:04). Mr. Burgess, Mrs. Maynerich & Mallory Witzeman are then joined by Mr. Corey Ostling to discuss recommendations on life after high school and how to prepare (18:14 - 37:59). The crew finishes up by discussing all things related to Thanksgiving in light of the upcoming break! (38:09 - 1:04:36) Enjoy!
Ashlyn Hicks & Sydney Sennett join the podcast as co-hosts to talk about what went on at West last week and what you have to look forward to next week throughout the school (0:00 - 5:21). Next, Ian Jirk and Mr. Brady Piepenbrink are joined by Officer Charles Cowley to discuss his time as a resource officer at Normal West (5:33 - 20:03). Mr. Matthews & Mr. Franz are then joined by Marnie Howard & Coach Maggie Root to discuss her upcoming state meet as well as her swimming/diving career (20:15 - 34:55). The crew finishes up by discussing youth sports and the transition to high school/college athletics and Ashlyn & Sydney give some advice to younger athletes (35:05 - 47:59). Lastly, they all list some things which they hate that most people love (48:10 - 59:40) Enjoy!
Corinna Thomas and Sofi Benitez join the podcast to talk about what went on at West last week and what you have to look forward to next week throughout the school (0:00 - 4:09). Mr. Burgess and Mr. Franz are then joined by Coach Kelsey Mueller and Natalie Nenne to talk about their big regional championship and how the season has gone (4:23 - 24:25). We are then joined by Mr. Ryan Budzinski, Braden Pool and Ava Eames to discuss the marching band’s STATE CHAMPIONSHIP and whether or not Mr. B can identify mistakes with all of those people performing at once (24:34 - 46:15). The crew finishes up by giving their review on Taylor Swift’s new album, “Midnights” and having a draft on their favorite Disney/Pixar characters of all time (46:29 - 1:09:15). Enjoy!
Ian Jirik and Mallory Witzemann join the podcast to talk about what went on at West last week and what you have to look forward to next week throughout the school (0:00 - 7:16). Mr. Matthews & Mr. Franz are then joined by Sky Riddle and Ashleigh Horton to discuss Cross Country and their running careers at West (7:30 - 20:17). Then, Mr. Burgess and Mr. Franz are joined by Nicki Grant, the long-time assistant to the Associate Principal to discuss her time at West and say goodbye (20:31 - 31:44). The crew finishes up by discussing time management techniques and giving each other some tricky “Would you rather?” questions (32:02 - 55:35). Enjoy!
Sydney Sennett and Ashlyn Hicks join the podcast to talk about what went on at West last week and what you have to look forward to next week throughout the school (0:00 - 7:29). Mr. Burgess, Mr. Franz and Ashlyn Hicks are joined by Principal Dave Johnson to discuss a number of topics such as how he got to where he is and why the french fries disappeared from lunch (7:43 - 27:21). Then, Mr. Burgess is joined by Ms. Boehm, Noah Jett & Raphael Bruce to discuss the upcoming “Hauntcert” (27:36 - 36:14). The crew finishes up by discussing all things Halloween such as their favorite costumes and tradition and end by having a “Halloween Candy Draft” (36:24 - 1:00:31). Enjoy!
Mallory Witzmann and Corinna Thomas join the podcast to talk about what went on at West last week and what you have to look forward to next week throughout the school (10:40). Then, Mr. Burgess and Mallory Thomas are joined by our foreign exchange students Maria Silveria and Nathalie Lein to discuss their experiences at Normal West and in the U.S. (34:20). Lastly, Mr. Franz, Mr. Burgess, Mallory & Corinna discuss their takes on standardized tests such as the SAT and ACT (43:38). The crew finishes up by trying to guess lyrics of their favorite songs. Enjoy!
Ian Jirk and Sofi Benitez join the podcast to talk about what went on at West last week and what you have to look forward to next week throughout the school (12:55). Then, Mr.Franz and Sydney Sennet are joined by Coach Fincham and Larell Fisher to discuss their backgrounds and how the football season is going (33:00). Lastly, Mr. Franz, Mr. Burgess, Sofi & Ian discuss their thoughts on some of the changes within Unit 5 from a teacher and a student stand point (52:58). The Crew finishes up by giving their favorite Normal West and Bloomington-Normal "Hot Takes". Enjoy!
Sydney Sennett and Ashlyn Hicks join Mr. Burgess & Mr. Franz to talk about what went on at West last week and what you have to look forward to next week throughout the school (15:27). Then, Mr. Burgess and Ian Jirik are joined by Mr. Ryan Kerr and Soph Henderson to discuss the upcoming play at Normal West this weekend called “Radium Girls” (46:25). Lastly, Mr. Franz, Sydney & Ashlyn discuss how Homecoming went (54:17). The crew finishes it up by trying to stump each other by playing a game called “Who’s Generation is it Anyway?” Enjoy!
Introducing.... the Normal West podcast! In this test episode of PodCATS we talked about sports, cereal, and everything in between. Starring Tim Franz, Joe Burgess, Cullen Matthews.