Cav Chats: Beyond the Classroom

Episode 7 welcomes former North Canton Mayor Stephen Wilder—U.S. Navy veteran, retired law enforcement leader, and longtime public servant—for a warm conversation about hometown pride, public service, and Walsh’s role in the community. Mayor Wilder shares the personal experiences that shaped his leadership, reflects on guiding the city through the early days of COVID, and highlights the “town and gown” relationship with Walsh University and President Tim Collins. From stories of civic engagement to advice for students considering careers in law enforcement and community leadership, this episode is a reminder that strong communities are built on service, kindness, and showing up.

In this energizing episode of Cav Chats, host Teresa Fox sits down with Walsh University exercise science experts Dr. Jonathan Naylor and Dr. Meredith Joplin to explore one of the world’s most beloved (and misunderstood) beverages: coffee. From athletic performance to cardiovascular health, muscle preservation, metabolism, and even reaction time—coffee does far more than help you wake up. Dr. Naylor and Dr. Joplin, contributors to the new textbook The Link Between Coffee and Health, break down what the research actually tells us, what’s myth, what’s fact, and how your daily cup (or three) might be helping you more than you think. They discuss: • How caffeine evolved from a banned substance to a trusted performance booster • Why coffee affects the body differently than caffeine pills or energy drinks • The role of roast type, grind size, and brewing method in health outcomes • Coffee’s surprising link to muscle mass and aging • What athletes need to know about coffee timing, dosage, and safety • Whether your favorite “fancy” coffee drinks are helping… or hurting • Upcoming Walsh research and opportunities for student participation Whether you’re an athlete, a coffee lover, or someone simply trying to make healthier choices, this conversation is full of insights, clarity, and a few surprises. Grab your mug and join Teresa for a deep dive into the science behind your daily ritual.

In this episode of Cav Chats, Walsh University’s VP of Marketing, Teresa Fox, sits down with Dr. Kim Cleveland, the inaugural Dean of Walsh’s newly established College of Health Sciences. With an extraordinary journey spanning nursing, law, education, and health policy leadership, Dr. Cleveland brings a wealth of experience to this transformative role. Together, they explore how her diverse background—from the ICU and courtroom to the classroom—shapes her vision for health sciences at Walsh. Dr. Cleveland reflects on her commitment to advocacy, community, and faith, and shares why now is the pivotal moment to unite nursing, counseling, exercise science, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and more under one collaborative umbrella. Listeners will hear insights into the interdisciplinary approach that distinguishes Walsh’s health sciences programs, the urgent need for nurse educators, and the unique support systems that empower both traditional and adult learners on campus. Dr. Cleveland also discusses her leadership philosophy, the integration of technology in health care education, and her hopes for Walsh graduates to impact every corner of the community. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on faith-rooted leadership, the future of health care education, and how Walsh University is preparing the next generation of compassionate, innovative health professionals.

In this episode of Cav Chats, Walsh University’s VP of Marketing, Teresa Fox, welcomes Father Ryan Furlong, the newly appointed University Chaplain, to reflect on the Year of Faith and what it means for our campus community. Father Ryan shares his journey from teaching high school history to answering a lifelong vocational call to the priesthood, and how those experiences shape his ministry today. Together, they explore how faith can anchor students in a rapidly changing world, offering guidance, support, and encouragement through both challenges and joys. From pastoral care to building community across diverse backgrounds, Father Ryan discusses his vision for campus ministry and how students can find strength, balance, and purpose during their time at Walsh. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on faith, resilience, and the power of spiritual presence in the life of a university.

In this episode of Cav Chats, Walsh University’s VP of Marketing, Teresa Fox, sits down with Dr. Nick Morris, Faculty Director of the Blouin Global Scholars Program, to discuss how service and academic inquiry come together to create real change—on campus and in our surrounding communities. Dr. Morris shares how the Blouin Program empowers students to become servant-leaders through immersive service experiences and global engagement. They explore what it means to be a student who chooses this path and how it reflects a deeper commitment to purpose, justice, and community impact. Tune in for a thoughtful conversation about the transformative role of service learning and the kind of student it helps shape at Walsh.

In this episode of Cav Chats, Walsh University's VP of Marketing, Teresa Fox, sits down with VP of Academic Affairs, Dr. Mike Dunphy, to explore the vital role academics play in shaping the next generation of leaders. From fostering innovation in the classroom to supporting student success beyond graduation, Dr. Dunphy shares insights on Walsh’s commitment to academic excellence. They discuss the evolving landscape of higher education, the intersection of academics and career preparation, and how Walsh is equipping students with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in an ever-changing world. Tune in for an in-depth conversation on the power of education and its lasting impact on students’ futures.

In this episode of Cav Chats, Walsh University's Athletic Director and VP, Christina Paone, sits down with Walsh's VP of Marketing, Teresa Fox, to discuss the evolving landscape of athletics in higher education. From the challenges of balancing academics and sports to the importance of building a winning culture, Christina shares insights on leading a successful athletic department at a top-tier university. They also dive into the impact of the transfer portal on college sports, exploring how it’s changing recruitment, team dynamics, and the overall landscape of collegiate athletics. Tune in for expert analysis on the role of athletics in shaping student-athletes' futures and the growing impact of sports programs in higher education institutions.