PODCAST · education
Chatting at the C
by Ben Boeckman
We are a Podcast series focusing on the great things happening at THE Central High School! We interview staff and the great things they do EVERYDAY!! Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/chattingat-c/support
Episodes
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Dr. Keith Bigsby - Part 1: "The Little Acorn"
Dr. Keith Bigsby was principal of Central High from 2010 to 2013, but he was also an asst. principal, teacher, and dept. chair at CHS. Keith was elected to the Central Hall of Fame in 2022. In PART ONE, listen to Keith talk about his youth in Lincoln, his admiration for his mother, and an early...
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Dr. Keith Bigsby- Part 2: "The Eagle ABCs"
Dr. Keith Bigsby was principal of Central High from 2010 to 2013, but he was also an asst. principal, teacher, and dept. chair at CHS. Keith was elected to the Central Hall of Fame in 2022. In PART TWO, listen to Keith talk about rising to be an OPS principal at McMillan MS and then onto Omaha...
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Dr. Ed Bennett - Part 1: "Hawkeye State of Mind"
Dr. Ed Bennett was the principal at Omaha Central from 2013 until 2021. In this 2-part podcast, we explore the life and career journey of one of Central's most memorable leaders. He was inducted into the Central Hall of Fame in 2026. Part One discusses Ed's Newton, IA upbringing and influences,...
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Dr. Ed Bennett - Part 2: "Papa Eagle"
Dr. Ed Bennett was the principal at Omaha Central from 2013 until 2021. In this 2-part podcast, we explore Ed's life and career journey. He was inducted into the Central Hall of Fame in Oct. 2026. Part Two picks up Ed's career as he becomes principal of Buffett MS and then returns to lead Central...
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Michele Roberts - Building a Strong Foundation
Michele Roberts is the Executive Director of the Omaha Central High School Foundation, but did you know she also taught social studies and was the CHS Head Girls Basketball Coach, too? Today, Michele conducts the CHSF in its mission to provide Central, its teachers, and its students with the...
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Ivan Maisel - "Frank Leahy: American Coaching Legend"
Did you know that one of college football’s most successful coaches of all time attended Omaha Central in the 1920s? Ivan Maisel is a nationally known and award winning sportswriter and college football historian, working over his career for outlets like Sports Illustrated and ESPN. His book...
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Jodi Dierks - "Just A Small Town Girl"
Jodi Dierks came to Omaha Central in 1999 to be the head volleyball coach and a Special Education teacher. She went on to coach golf, become the BMIT Department Chair, and is now the Asst. Principal for Activities at CHS. Always a problem solver, Jodi represents the Central spirit and ideal to…
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The Quad Pod - "Meyer + Drumm + Pfeiffer + Brock"
These four friends asked to form the first 4-person podcast episode, and we couldn't say no! Angie Meyer- Math and Counseling Sue (Drumm) Altman- Math Christie (Pfeiffer) Goetz - Math Linda Brock- Science These 4 outstanding educators all became friends while working at Lewis and Clark Middle...
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Jo Dusatko - "Take care of each other"
JoAnne Dusatko taught at Central from 1967 until her retirement in 2000. In her 33-year Hall of Fame career, Jo won 7 state track team titles and finished runners-up 5 more times all while being an outstanding PE and Business teacher at CHS. Above all, Jo was deeply concerned about the well being...
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Dr. Greg Sand - "Solving Problems"
Greg Sand taught Math at Central from 2002-2021. Hear about Sand's winding road to Capitol Hill, his high-level Math classes on the 4th floor, and then his pursuit of higher education for himself. Sand earned his PhD and became a Math professor at UNO, where he works today. Greg was the 2009 CHS...
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Jenn Emanuel - "Attention to Detail"
Jenn Emanuel is a 1989 Central High graduate and now a Math teacher at her alma mater. After a circuitous route in teaching and the business world, Jenn landed back at CHS in 2016. Known for high standards for her students, Jenn helps uphold the Central expectations and traditions that were...
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Greg Emmel - "A Sense of Purpose"
Greg Emmel was principal at Omaha Central High School from 2006-2010. The Sioux Falls native spent 33 years in OPS before retiring into a job where he helps students who are struggling to get back on track. High School valedictorian. Pink Floyd fan. Proud dad and devoted husband. Join us for a...
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Charles Hinkle - "The Colonel"
Charles Hinkle was the Social Studies Department Chair at Omaha Central from 2003 to 2009. Before he got into education, Colonel Hinkle was a USAF pilot in two wars during a 26-year military career. Please give a listen to this Kansas native's journey from far reaching locations around the globe...
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Rob O'Brien and "The Adopted"
This is a special Memorial Day episode. Rob O'Brien is an Amsterdam-based filmmaker whose latest documentary project "The Adopted" looks at the grave adoption program at the Netherlands American Cemetery in Margraten. Each of the over 8,000 WWII American dead buried there are "adopted" by…
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Deron Larson and Ray Dewaele - "Wally and the Worm"
Deron "The Worm" Larson has taught English and Creative Writing at Omaha Central since 2002. This humble, generous, and kind man has 3 Central graduates that call him "dad". Deron was also a chain crew member, an Old Man Basketball legend (where he earned the exalted "worm" nickname), as well as...
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Cathy Andrus - "From Brooklyn with Love"
As Central's IB students prepare this week to grapple with their big exams, let's chat with Cathy Andrus who was a counselor, and later Central's Guidance Director, before being instrumental in bringing the International Baccalaureate Programme to Omaha Central. As the first IB coordinator at…
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Michelle Synowiecki - "Happy Tears"
We welcome Omaha Central counselor Michelle (Pleiss) Synowiecki to the podcast. Michelle started at CHS in 2002 as a long-term sub, before quickly moving to Social Studies where she became a favorite among the CHS student body. Michelle also coached the girls soccer team to their only State...
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Diane Allen - "From Peony Park to Capitol Hill"
Diane (Nicksick) Allen is a 1986 Omaha Central graduate who taught English at Central from 1997 to 2025. One of the torch bearers of the CHS English teaching tradition (which she first learned as a student), Diane got her start in teaching at Lewis and Clark MS before coming back to her alma…
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Jerry Kreber - "The Central High Lottery Ticket"
It is Opening Week for high school baseball in Nebraska, and we are joined by long-time Omaha Central coach and Special Education teacher Jerry Kreber. From Iowa to the Omaha Public Schools, Coach Kreber has always put hard work at the center of all he does. Join us as we discuss his amazing…
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Lyn and Stephen Bouma - "Singing the Praises"
The Boumas have a long history at Omaha Central. Lyn was choir director from 1993 until she retired in 2021. Lyn's husband and accompanist Stephen is a 1981 Eagle, but his family history at Central reaches back into the 19th century. Their daughter Claire is a 2021 Eagle graduate (5th generation)...
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McKenna Paintin - "The Butterfly Effect"
We are joined by outstanding history teacher and 2016 Central Eagle McKenna Paintin to talk about her journey from CHS grad to CHS teacher, and the "butterfly effect" of her choice to attend Central back in 2012. She is one of the MANY talented young teacher alums who have returned to The Nest.…
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Peter Wilger - "Mr. Wilger’s Opus”
We chatted with Pete Wilger, retired Performing Arts Dept. Chair, marching and pep band leader and all-around good egg. Pete grew up in OPS, started his career in Yutan, and then came to Central in 1991 and worked here until his retirement in 2018. Pete recieved the Alice Buffett Award in 2008…
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"Doc" Moller - "Keeping Central...Central"
The great Dr. Gaylord E. “Doc” Moller was at Central from 1963 until his retirement in 1995, including the last 27 years as principal. He grew up and taught originally in small town Nebraska (“Doc” was a childhood nickname) before coming to downtown Omaha. An entire generation of Eagle students…
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Stan Standifer - "Coach Stan"
Stan Standifer taught P.E. at Omaha Central from 1971-2003. He also coached football, girls volleyball, and girls and boys basketball. Stan grew up in OPS and was football star at UNO, even earning a roster invite from the Oakland Raiders before settling in to his career at CHS. Stan also served...
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Rita Ryan - "Salve, Magistra!"
The incomparable Rita Ryan taught Latin at Omaha Central for 42 years, from 1971-2013. Rita was inducted the following year into the Central Hall of Fame. She took Eagle students and families to Europe 15 times, and ran the country's oldest Latin Club while at CHS. For generations of Eagles, a…
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Eric Behrens - "Champ High"
We are joined by legendary 1992 Omaha Central grad and former basketball coach Eric Behrens to talk about his days as a student at CHS, his historic run as coach, a member of CHS' blue ribbon chain crew, and then moving on to being a college coach and now a principal in OPS. Join us for a great,...
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Dan Daly - "Writing Tradition"
Dan Daly taught English at Omaha Central from 1962-1999 and served as Department Chair from 1976-99. Dan discussed his approach to English teaching, his success in the AP program, and other thoughts about changes at CHS during his tenure. Dan was a 1989 Alice Buffett Award winner and was…
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Jean Whitten - "The Adventurer”
We chatted with the wonderful Jean Whitten who taught science at Omaha Central High from 1996 until her retirement in 2015. Jean was at Lewis and Clark MS for 5 years before that, but her story starts in the state of Texas and winds around the United States until landing in The Nest. As a Central...
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Virginia Lee Pratt - "Central was my home."
Virginia Lee Pratt (CHS 1937) taught at her alma mater, Omaha Central High School, from 1941-1982. She was a math teacher and Math Department Chair. Ms. Pratt is in the Central Hall of Fame. Ms. Pratt was 88 at the time of this interview. She passed in 2015 at 96 in Omaha. This interview was...
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Matt and Jackson Shafer - "Father and Son"
Matt Shafer taught business and coached at Omaha Central from 1997-2004. Matt's son and daughter both later attended CHS, and his son Jackson returned as a Math teacher in 2019, another one of Central's faculty members from the alumni ranks. (1:10) Matt's youth and influential teachers (11:35)...
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Paul Semrad - "Dad loved Central High"
On this “Hall of Fame Week” episode we talk about Omaha Central Hall of Fame Distinguished Educator Paul Semrad. Paul was at CHS from 1973-2005. He taught Social Studies, was Central's very first Girls Basketball coach (where he won back-to-back titles and a Class A record 58 straight wins in…
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Marion Crandell: OHS 1889 - "The Volunteer"
Another special "Central High history" episode! This episode focuses on Omaha Central Hall of Famer Marion G. Crandell from the Omaha High School Class of 1889. Marion, who was a French language teacher, volunteered to go to France during The Great War in 1918 to help soldiers behind the lines...
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Jay Ball - "A very special place in my heart"
We are joined by retired Central Social Studies teacher and head football coach, Jay Ball. Jay is a 1980 CHS graduate, who taught and coached in OPS for 30 years, including from 2006-2017 at Omaha Central High School. Jay was heavily influenced by his father Jerry, but Jay also notes the numerous...
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John Pehle: CHS 1926 - "I wish I could do more."
Special "Central history" episode. We normally talk about Omaha Central teachers, but we had such a great opportunity to talk about CHS Hall of Famer John Pehle (CHS 1926) with historian Rebecca Erbelding. John attended Creighton and Yale Law School before starting at the Treasury Department…
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Jimmie Foster - "OOOSSS!"
What happens when two long-time teacher friends sit down for a chat? You get a mega-pod. We are joined by veteran Omaha Central High teacher, Social Studies Department chair, and former CHS wrestling coach Jimmie Foster to talk about his 28+ years at Central and much more... (1:42) growing up in...
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Dr. Gary Thompson - "50 Years in Education"
We welcome former Omaha Central High principal Dr. Gary Thompson, who was principal of CHS from 1995-2002. Before that, he taught science and was Science Dept. Chair at Central (1973-1983), he was a junior high science teacher at Bancroft (1970-1973), and he made stops as an admin at South and...
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John "Pop" Schmidt - "Like a father to all kids"
In this special episode, we talk with John Schmidt about his CHS Hall of Fame grandfather, John "Pop" Schmidt. Pop taught science at Omaha Central High from 1918 until his death in 1949. Pop coached many legendary Eagle athletes and teams to championships and lifetimes of success. Listen to John...
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Jen Stastny - "This is where I want to be."
We chat with the amazing Jen Stastny, who has been teaching English at Omaha Central High since 1998. In this episode we explore what made her want to become a teacher, what sustains her in education over the years, and some of her favorite teacher people and moments in a great career. (1:13)…
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Paul Pennington - "Unbelievable Memories"
We are joined by Paul Pennington to talk about his 34 years (1971-2005) at Omaha Central High. Paul was a Math teacher, coach, and Athletic Director. Paul never could have imagined working anywhere else. (1:00) growing up in Beatrice and his path to teaching (5:29) getting hired at CHS (8:16)...
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Tim Shipman - "The Storyteller"
We are joined by Tim Shipman, who taught at Omaha Central High School from 1988-2019. We follow Tim from Grand Island to Germany to Capitol Hill and around the world. Tim's influence at CHS is undeniable. (00:52) Grand Island, US Army, Holdrege Police Officer (10:00) going into education (19:00)...
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Rod Mullen - "Central is in my blood"
We are joined by Central HS Hall of Famer Rod Mullen, who taught Social Studies at CHS from 1998-2022. Rod talks about his Omaha origins, his influences, and his award-winning teaching career. Then, Rod and Scott discuss the Top 5 CHS sports moments during their 24 years together at CHS. (00:45)...
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Vicki Wiles - "A Great Colleague"
From Plattsmouth to Omaha Central and back. Vicki Wiles taught Marketing and DECA at CHS from 1989-2020. Vicki was the ultimate colleague and a world-class teacher, too. (1:00) formative years in Plattsmouth (4:30) career begins at CHS (7:07) being a great co-worker (12:30) coaching track and VB,...
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Vicki Deniston Reed - "Heart and Soul"
Thanks for listening to the show! Chatting at the C is supported by the Omaha Central High School Foundation. Consider supporting the CHSF by joining "Generation C" In this episode, we talk to retired award winning CHS history teacher Vicki Deniston Reed about her outstanding 24-year career at...
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The No Name Pod I Lindsay Cisco
Thanks so much for tuning into Chatting at the C. While you're here hit that subscribe button on your app and then find us on any social media platform you prefer. We couldn't do this show without the support of the Central High Foundation. Visit the CHSF website to find information about…
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Quiet on the Podcast I Beth Wilson
Thanks for tuning into the show! Make sure you follow us on your favorite podcast platform and on social media. We're glad you're reading these notes and listening to the episode. If you'd like to continue to support the show consider becoming a 'Generation C' member with the Central High...
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Leaps of Faith I Micah Ringlein
Thanks for tuning into another great episode of the show. Make sure you hit that subscribe button and follow us on any social media platform you'd like. We are rapping up our summer shows and gearing up for another great school year. Make sure you visit the Foundation Website to sign up for their...
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Shaking up Tradition I Jon Franta
Thanks for tuning into the show! Make sure you subscribe to the show on your favorite podcast app and on social media! We appreciate our continual sponsor the Central High Foundation for supporting the show and all of Eagle Nation! Visit their website to become a 'Generation C' member today!…
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Childhood Games I John Tigani
Thanks for tuning into the show! Make sure you follow us on this platform and on any social media you'd like. If you'd like to subscribe to our newsletter submit your email address to the Q&A section below. Major thanks to the Central High Foundation for their support of this show. Head to their...
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Scott Wilson - The Listeners Episode
We've hit our one year anniversary show and we had to go BIG! So, we finally had legendary educator and world traveler Scott Wilson on the show. Thanks for tuning into the show and make sure you follow us on social media wherever you'd like! Leave us a five star rating so others around the world...
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Relationships above everything I Nick Webster
Thanks for tuning into the show! Make sure you share this episode and any other episodes with other Eagles alike. If you haven't yet found us on social media hit that follow button to stay up to date with Eagle news and newest episodes. I named this show relationships above everything because…
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
We are a Podcast series focusing on the great things happening at THE Central High School! We interview staff and the great things they do EVERYDAY!! Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/chattingat-c/support
HOSTED BY
Ben Boeckman
CATEGORIES
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Chatting at the C have?
Chatting at the C currently has 50 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Chatting at the C about?
We are a Podcast series focusing on the great things happening at THE Central High School! We interview staff and the great things they do EVERYDAY!! Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/chattingat-c/support
How often does Chatting at the C release new episodes?
Chatting at the C has 50 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to Chatting at the C?
You can listen to Chatting at the C on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Chatting at the C?
Chatting at the C is created and hosted by Ben Boeckman.
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