Straight from the Mustang’s Mouth: The Brick Memorial Podcast

Samantha Kurek, president of the class of 2026, gives her graduation speech.

Graduation day is finally here, and we are bringing the most anticipated speeches of the year straight to the studio speakers! In this very special edition of Straight from the Mustang’s Mouth, we honor the top academic leaders of the graduating class.Listeners will get an exclusive, front-row seat as Valedictorian James Gillen delivers his powerful valedictorian address, followed by Salutatorian Allison Kennedy reading her inspiring salutatorian speech. Together, they reflect on the challenges overcome, the memories made in the hallways of Brick Memorial, and the exciting, unwritten chapters that lie ahead for the entire class. A massive congratulations to the incredible Class of 2026! Tune in for a beautiful celebration of hard work, dedication, and the bright future of our newest Mustang alumni.

The music department takes center stage this week on Straight from the Mustang’s Mouth! We are thrilled to introduce sophomore Mackenzie Thompson in her official podcast hosting debut as she sits down for a highly anticipated "Teacher Spotlight" with Brick Memorial's very own chorus teacher, Mr. Bettys.Mackenzie puts her teacher on the hot seat to uncover the mysteries of the choir room. We dive deep into his personality to answer the ultimate question: is Mr. Bettys a strict, ultra-organized Type A, or a relaxed, go-with-the-flow Type B? Plus, we get an exclusive, unfiltered look inside his desk drawers to find out exactly what snacks keep him fueled through a long day of rehearsals, scales, and harmonies.Tune in for a fun, lighthearted conversation that strikes all the right chords!

The stadium lights are on and the studio microphones are heating up for a massive sports installment of "Overrated, Underrated, or Just Right." With the excitement reaching a fever pitch as New Jersey prepares to host the World Cup in just a few days, we have assembled an all-star panel to debate the world's most popular games.Guests Brendan Ryan, Tyler Pierce, Mike Pappas, Robbie Bye, and Bobbie Condurso join the show to break down the global cultural impact, entertainment value, and athletic demands of baseball, basketball, and soccer.Is America's favorite pastime keeping up with the modern era, or has it become overrated? Is the non-stop action on the hardcourt just right? And as the global game takes over our home turf this month, does soccer truly earn its crown as the beautiful game? Tune in to hear the crew defend their favorite sports, trade hot takes, and preview the historic tournament heading to our backyard.

Click here to sign up for Relay for Life:https://mobileacs.org/d5GPv5 Host Collin Crawford welcomes key guests to the Straight from the Mustang's Mouth studio! Join Emma Naples, President of the Brick Memorial High School Key Club, and Vice President Allison Porter as they dive into the heart of their organization's service mission.In this episode, our Mustang leaders discuss the essential role of Key Club in school and community, share insights into their respective roles, and focus on one of the most significant and impactful initiatives of the year: the community-wide Relay for Life event. Tune in to learn why this cause is so vital, what the day has in store, and how every Mustang can get involved to make a meaningful difference on June 12, 2026. This is your chance to hear how service and dedication are coming together to create a brighter future, right here in Brick.

It’s time to dial up the excitement for a special championship pre-game edition of Straight from the Mustang’s Mouth! Host Jimmy the Blaze welcomes Brick Memorial Varsity Baseball Coach Evan Rizzitello to the studio for a discussion about a season that is truly catching fire.We are diving deep into the incredible success story of this team. Coach Rizzitello breaks down the strategies, the key players, and the championship grit that has propelled them forward. Perfectly timed, we are ecstatic to confirm a massive development: our Mustangs took care of business and stormed to a victory in the Group semi-finals on Monday!The conversation focuses on the remarkable path that has led them directly to the ultimate showdown: the Group 3 Championship this Sunday, where they will take the field at the legendary Rutgers University stadium. Tune in to feel the championship heat and hear how our Mustangs are preparing for their ultimate test!

Welcome back to another "Teacher Spotlight" on Straight from the Mustang’s Mouth. This week, freshman host Emma Crowley sits down with her very own English teacher, Ms. Gina Scherzo, for an inside look at life beyond the syllabus.Ms. Scherzo reveals some of her secret talents that her students might not know about and shares her strong opinions on why she avoids Red Bull. The duo also discusses a memorable classroom moment involving a secret visitor that Ms. Scherzo had to save. It is a lighthearted and engaging episode that offers a unique perspective on one of our favorite educators in the English department.

We are dusting off the television guide for this week’s installment of "Overrated, Underrated, or Just Right." Olivia Devlin, Emma Crowley, and Brynnleigh Keane take over the microphones to review a few shows from previous generations (you know, the ones the adults in their lives grew up watching).The trio binge-watched their way through television history to give their unfiltered thoughts on three iconic sitcoms: The Office, Friends, and Full House.Does the comedy in Scranton still hold up today? Is Central Perk actually worth the hype? And does the wholesome family drama of the Tanner household translate to a new generation? Tune in to hear if these classic shows are truly timeless masterpieces, hidden gems, or just completely overrated.

The microphones are hot and the takes are even hotter as we return with another installment of "Overrated, Underrated, or Just Right." This week, we are heading straight to the Hollywood red carpet.Guests Clarke Patterson, Shea Wagner, Charlotte Kennedy, and Elliana Randolph take over the studio to break down three of the biggest celebrities in the entertainment world today. From box office blockbusters to pop culture drama, this panel does not hold back.Are these A-listers genuinely deserving of their massive stardom? Are they secretly overlooked talents who deserve more credit? Or is the public perception of them perfectly accurate? Tune in to hear the crew defend their favorite stars and put Hollywood's elite to the test.

This week on Straight from the Mustang’s Mouth, host Ava Miller is joined by a powerhouse group from our Unified Sports program: Sarah Malvasio, Shay McDonald, Casey Pierce, and Tyler Pierce.As the "Change Makers" of Brick Memorial, our guests dive into the true meaning of inclusion and share moving stories about how the Unified program has personally impacted their lives. We also get the inside scoop on the upcoming kickball season, what to expect at the next few games, and details on a special raffle that supports the team.Tune in to hear how these students are breaking barriers and building a more inclusive community, one game at a time.

This week on Straight from the Mustang’s Mouth, host Mr. Stefanelli welcomes Leyna Gilinsky, Kyla Rogacki, and Vishva Patel to the studio to talk about an incredible collaborative effort happening right here at Brick Memorial.Three of our outstanding student organizations, The French Honors Society, The SmartStangs, and The Multicultural Club, have teamed up to sponsor a major school-wide Food Drive. Tune in to find out exactly where your donations are headed, how this initiative is making a difference, and how your generosity can even help you win some fantastic prizes.The food drive is officially running from now until June 5th. If you have any questions or want to learn more about how to help, drop by and see Madam Schwester in room 210. Let's come together as Mustangs to support a wonderful cause!

We are diving deep into the world of fast-food favorites in the premiere of our new segment, "Overrated, Underrated, or Just Right." This segment was born out of an idea from Mrs. Decker and her first-block Investigation class, and we are putting three of the biggest names in food to the test.Guests Max Larson, Chris DiChiara, Christian Murphy, and Landon Amalfa join the studio to break down the merits of Chick-fil-A, Raising Cane's, and Crumbl. Is the chicken actually worth the wait? Does the sauce live up to the legend? And are those weekly cookie lineups truly "just right," or are we all just caught in the hype?

Thank you to Mrs. West and Mrs. Agiovlasitis for reaching out to the students who want to give shout outs to the teachers of BMHS during Teacher Appreciation Week! Don't miss this very special episode of Straight from the Mustang's Mouth!

It is Teacher Appreciation Week, and we are taking a moment to honor the dedicated educators who make Brick Memorial High School a special place to learn and grow.In this very special episode of Straight from the Mustang’s Mouth, we are joined by Samantha Kurek from the Class of 2026. Samantha has written a moving "Open Letter" to the teachers of BMHS, expressing the gratitude, respect, and admiration felt by the student body.Tune in to hear Samantha read her letter in its entirety. It is a heartfelt tribute to the mentors who go above and beyond every day to support their students. To all our teachers, thank you for everything you do.

The glow of the neon lights is almost here! This week on Straight from the Mustang’s Mouth, Mr. Stefanelli is joined by senior Giana Schroeder, the lead of this year’s highly anticipated spring musical, Xanadu.Giana shares her experience preparing for such an iconic, high-energy role and gives us a behind-the-scenes look at what the cast has been working on to bring this disco-inspired fantasy to life. Whether you are a fan of the music, the skating, or the magic of the stage, this episode will get you ready for opening night.Showtimes at Brick Memorial High School:Thursday, April 30 @ 6:00 PMFriday, May 1 @ 6:00 PMSaturday, May 2 @ 2:00 PM & 7:00 PMDon’t miss your chance to see Giana and the rest of the talented cast in action!

Mustang pride is going global! This week on Straight from the Mustang’s Mouth, we are thrilled to welcome back 2018 graduate AJ Bucci. Since walking the halls of Brick Memorial, AJ has been hard at work making his mark in the world of cinema.AJ sits down with us to discuss his debut feature film, Phantom and Perceptor, which he both wrote and directed. This project was a true Mustang collaboration. AJ is joined by his wife and fellow 2018 graduate, Skylar Bucci, who wrote and performed the film's main song. They share the creative process of bringing a story to life and what it was like to collaborate as a team.The film is currently available to rent or buy on Amazon. You can also listen to the main song written by Skylar at the following link: https://open.spotify.com/track/4w4WnY2VYt4ILOuZSbNeJ6?si=UzZ5jpEZQEaGLibivLPqHQ. Be sure to support our alumni and check out their incredible work!

Welcome back to Straight from the Mustang’s Mouth! Host Emma Crowley is joined by Miss Jamie Hetzel for this week’s episode. Miss Hetzel is currently a student teacher in the English Department as she completes her education studies at Georgian Court University.Miss Hetzel opens up about the inspiration behind her path to education and her deep appreciation for the works of William Shakespeare. She also does not hold back as she shares a controversial hot take about a famous classic novel that might just surprise you. Tune in to hear her perspective on the classroom and the canon!

In this new installment of "Teachers on Teachers," we explore a professional journey that has come full circle. Mrs. Marvin sits down for a candid conversation with her former teacher and current colleague, Mr. Bloom.The two educators compare their individual teaching styles and reflect on the significant changes they have seen in education over the years. They also share honest insights into how they manage the hectic schedules and daily pressures of the classroom. Join us for a fascinating look at the evolving dynamic between a mentor and a former student who now share the same hallway.

We are excited to introduce our newest podcaster, freshman Cullen Swayze, as he makes his official debut behind the microphone. His first guest? None other than freshman History teacher, Mr. Lecorchick.You will have to tune in to find out the true story behind the legendary four-foot chicken that once called Mr. Lecorchick’s classroom home.It is a fun, historical, and slightly feathered episode you do not want to miss!

A new leader is stepping up at Brick Memorial High School! This week on Straight from the Mustang’s Mouth, host Mr. Stefanelli welcomes sophomore Laina Roselle to the studio.Laina has recently been appointed as the Lieutenant Governor of Key Club Division 7, and she is ready to get to work. Tune in as she shares her vision for the upcoming year, the responsibilities that come with her new role, and the excitement of representing our school on a larger stage. It is an inspiring look at student leadership and the impact of service in our community.

Get ready for an unforgettable story on this week’s edition of Straight from the Mustang’s Mouth!Host Collin Crawford sits down with Ms. Murray for a "Teacher Spotlight" that starts with classroom life and ends with a bizarre twist. Learn why a 24-year-old brother of a student followed her around for a week!

We are back with another essential Teacher Spotlight on Straight from the Mustang’s Mouth!This week, host Collin Crawford sits down with a true pillar of the Brick Memorial community: Mrs. Shelley Roebuck. While many know her from the halls and the classroom, this episode offers a chance to get to know the person behind the profession.Join us as Mrs. Roebuck shares stories from her career, her perspective on life at BMHS, and some fun personal insights that might surprise you. It is a warm, insightful look at one of our most dedicated educators.

Welcome to the debut of our newest segment on Straight from the Mustang’s Mouth: Teachers on Teachers.The rules are simple: no script, no pre-planned questions, and no safety net. Just two educators from completely different worlds sitting down for an honest conversation. Our premiere episode brings together Mr. Bob Sodt from the Science Department and Mr. Stefanelli from the English Department.Watch what happens when these two sharp minds collide to discuss everything from the impact of phones in the classroom and the reality of marriage, to their thoughts on retirement and why they absolutely refuse to hit the snooze button on their alarms.It’s raw, it’s real, and it’s a side of your teachers you’ve never heard before.

The winter season is reaching its peak, and all eyes are on the final Mustang still in the hunt for a title! This week on Straight from the Mustang’s Mouth, host Jimmy the Blaze sits down with wrestling standout Mike Napolitano.Fresh off an impressive second-place finish at the Region 6 Championships, Mike is officially headed to the NJSIAA State Championships in Atlantic City. He shares what it takes to reach the state level, his mindset heading into the boardwalk competition, and the pride of being the final student athlete representing Brick Memorial this winter.Tune in to hear from one of our elite athletes before he takes the biggest stage in New Jersey wrestling!

Science is in session, but the vibes are... unique. This week on Straight from the Mustang’s Mouth, freshman host Ava Miller steps into the lab to interview the Science Department's own Mr. Bob Sodt!In this "Teacher Spotlight," Mr. Sodt gets real about his legendary distaste for all things "fun"—specifically soda and candy. But the real experiment? His ongoing search for a student who can actually match his "disturbed energy."Tune in for a conversation that is equal parts educational and eccentric. Will any student ever meet his energy levels? Find out in this hilarious and unpredictable episode!

Welcome back to another episode of Straight from the Mustang's Mouth! This week, we are proving that the old saying is absolutely true: once a Mustang, always a Mustang.Co-hosts Emma Crowley and Mr. Stefanelli sit down with a very special returning guest. We are thrilled to welcome back Isabella Hernandez from the Class of 2022! Isabella is back walking the halls of Brick Memorial, but this time, she is on the other side of the desk. She has returned to her alma mater to complete her student teaching under the expert guidance of Mrs. Roebuck.Tune in to hear Isabella talk about what it is like to return to BMHS, the transition from being a high school student to leading a classroom, and how it feels to be back with her Mustang family.

Straight from the Mustang's Mouth is back with another fantastic Teacher Spotlight!This week, freshman host Ava Miller steps up to the mic to interview the wonderful Mrs. Diana Corde Leone.  Ava gets the scoop on Mrs. Corde Leone's journey as an educator, and how she performed LIVE in Tuscany!Join Ava and Mrs. Corde Leone for a fun conversation full of laughs, surprises, and a story you will not want to miss.

The trophy is coming home to Brick Memorial!On this episode of Straight from the Mustang's Mouth, we are celebrating the Girls Bowling Team's massive victory at the Shore Conference Team Tournament on February 5, 2026.We are joined in the studio by the champions themselves! Freshmen Kailyn Gallman and Bryonna Camp, along with Juniors Cameryn Demarco and Brooke Collins, sit down to recap the intense tournament action. They break down the pressure of the final frames, the team chemistry that led them to the top, and what it feels like to be the best in the conference.Congratulations, Mustangs!

History has been made on the hardwood at Brick Memorial!In this special episode, host Mr. Stefanelli sits down with the newest member of the elite 1,000 Point Club, Sean Collins. Sean takes us through the electric moment he hit the milestone and what it means to leave his mark on Mustang athletics. It’s a conversation about hard work, hoops, and Mustang pride.Congratulations, Sean!

In this episode of Straight from the Mustang’s Mouth, Mr. Stefanelli sits down with cast members Giana Schroeder, Remy Berger, and Emma Idzahl to discuss the Mustang Players production of Silent Sky by Lauren Gunderson.The group dives into the true story of Henrietta Leavitt, a pioneering astronomer who mapped the stars long before women were even allowed to use a telescope. The guests share their experiences bringing this celestial story to life, the challenges of portraying historical figures, and why this play’s message of discovery and perseverance still resonates today.Performance Dates:Join us in the auditorium on February 4, 5, 6, and 7 to see the magic in person.

Roll out the red carpet because this week on Straight from the Mustang’s Mouth, we are celebrating Brick Memorial’s finest!We are honored to be joined by this year’s Governor’s Educators of the Year: Mr. Curran Fallen and Mrs. Maria Lupo. Hosts Collin Crawford and Clarke Patterson sit down with the award-winning duo to hear their reactions to receiving this prestigious honor and what it means to represent the best of BMHS.But it’s not all serious business; Mr. Fallen and Mrs. Lupo also face the gauntlet of our brand-new Teacher Spotlight questions! Tune in to hear their stories, share some laughs, and find out what makes these two educators truly stand out.Congratulations to our winners!

Freshman Ava Miller sits down with Ms. Barbara Stansbury for our Teacher Spotlight series on "Straight from the Mustang's Mouth"! Get to know Ms. Stansbury beyond the classroom as they chat about her favorite movies, the classes she teaches, hidden talents, and her surprising confession about why she can't stand Jake Gyllenhaal! It's a fun and revealing conversation that shows a different side of one of Brick Memorial's beloved teachers. Don't miss this entertaining episode!

Patriotism takes the mic! In this high-energy episode, public speaking teacher Ms. Barbara Stansbury introduces the champions of the Voice of Democracy scholarship competition.Sponsored by VFW Post 8867, these students didn't just write speeches; they found their voices. Listen in as our top three winners read their prize-winning entries:Marra Tanay (1st Place)Samantha Kurek (2nd Place)Sean Collins (3rd Place)Hear the future of democracy, spoken with pride and purpose. This is the student perspective, delivered Straight from the Mustang’s Mouth.

Bonjour, Mustangs! We are back with a brand new episode of Straight from the Mustang’s Mouth!This week, we are rolling out the red carpet for the return of Brick Memorial High School’s very own French teacher, Madam Jennifer Schwester! Hosting the chaos are sophomores Isabella LaBruno and Layla Ambrose, who are taking over the microphones for their official podcast debut.Get ready for some serious hot takes as Madam Schwester dishes on her absolute favorite snacks, unleashes her hatred for energy drinks (seriously, put the Monster down!), and reveals the one movie that every single student needs to watch before they graduate.Grab your headphones (but maybe not an energy drink) and tune in!

Collin Crawford welcomes Ms. Delaney Cronin, Brick Memorial's new Head of School-Based Services, to "Straight from the Mustang's Mouth"! Ms. Cronin shares her excitement about joining the Mustang family, offers up a classic movie recommendation you won't want to miss, and reveals the secret to being both Type A and Type B at the same time. Get to know the newest member of our support team and learn how she's here to help our students thrive. Welcome to the herd, Ms. Cronin!

What is the one thing every senior needs to hear? We went straight to the source! In this episode of "Straight from the Mustang's Mouth," we asked Brick Memorial High School alumni to share the single most crucial piece of advice they wish they had received before graduating and heading out into the real world.Forget the usual clichés. These graduates deliver honest, actionable insights on everything from practical finance and career expectations to managing change and defining success on your own terms. This is the indispensable senior wisdom, delivered by the people who have been there.

Lights, camera, action! Mr. Bloom, Giana Schroeder, and Mr. Stefanelli take you on a nostalgic journey through 1995 on "Straight from the Mustang's Mouth" as they draft their favorite films that turned 30 this year! From blockbusters to cult classics, hear which movies made the cut and why 1995 was such an iconic year for cinema. Whether you're a film buff or just love a good debate, this episode is packed with entertainment, nostalgia, and plenty of Mustang opinions. Grab your popcorn and tune in!

Sophomore Logan Concepcion sits down with Mr. Chris Cordiano for our Teacher Spotlight series on "Straight from the Mustang's Mouth"! Get to know Mr. Cordiano like never before as he shares his biggest classroom oops, reveals what he's hiding in his desk, and confesses what he hates that students probably drink in his room! It's a fun and revealing conversation that shows the person behind the lesson plans. Don't miss this entertaining episode!

Jimmy the Blaze welcomes Boys Basketball Coach Keith Farr to "Straight from the Mustang's Mouth" to break down the team's powerful start to the season! Coach Farr shares insights on what's been driving the Mustangs' success on the court, standout performances, and what he anticipates for the rest of the season. From game strategies to team chemistry, get the inside scoop on why this could be a season to remember for Brick Memorial basketball. Let's go Mustangs!

Collin Crawford hosts this special episode of "Straight from the Mustang's Mouth" to answer the question: What is Challenge Day? Joined by Ms. Samantha West and Mrs. Amanda Agiovlasitis, Collin explores this powerful program that brings students together to break down barriers, build connections, and create a more inclusive school community. Learn what Challenge Day is all about, why it matters, and how it's making a positive impact at Brick Memorial. This is one episode that will inspire you to step up and make a difference!

Get ready for Brick Memorial's upcoming musical! Mr. Stefanelli welcomes Marley Lego, star of "Legally Blonde, Jr.," along with heads of tech Elijah Roman and CJ Zheng to "Straight from the Mustang's Mouth." Hear about the excitement behind bringing this beloved musical to life, what it takes to put on a production, and why you won't want to miss this show! Performances are December 12 and 13 at 6 pm, and December 14 at 2 pm. Mark your calendars and come support our talented Mustangs!

Hosted by Jaedyn Kemprowski and Will Smykowski, this special episode of "Straight from the Mustang's Mouth" is the official reveal of the 2026 Senior Superlatives! Find out who your classmates voted for in all the categories and celebrate the personalities that make the Class of 2026 unforgettable. Winners, don't forget to stay after school on Tuesday, December 9 to get your yearbook pictures taken in the Green Cafeteria. Congratulations to all our superlative winners—this is your moment to shine!

Mrs. Lauren Simmons returns for her second Teacher Spotlight and is our first guest with NEW QUESTIONS!! 12 new questions for the teachers and staff of Brick Memorial High School, so never miss an episode!This episode is hosted and produced by Collin Crawford.

Superintendent Dr. Thomas Farrell joins Mr. Stefanelli to discuss an exciting acknowledgement Brick Memorial received in the 2025 study "Are We Planning for Achievement?" Hear Dr. Farrell's insights on what this recognition means for our school community, the work behind our success, and how Brick Memorial continues to plan for student achievement and excellence. It's a conversation about pride, progress, and the future of our district!Check out the full study here: https://newjerseypolicyinstitute.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/NJPI_Oct2025Report.pdf

Mr. Stefanelli and Clarke Patterson serve up an exciting episode of "Straight from the Mustang's Mouth" as they sit down with Charlotte Kampf, Emily Fitzgerald, Shaylan McDonald, and Coach Yarbrough to celebrate the volleyball team's record-breaking season! Hear about the historic achievements, the dedication it took to shatter school records, and the team chemistry that powered the Mustangs to new heights. From unforgettable matches to milestone moments, this is a conversation you won't want to miss. Go Mustangs!

Collin Crawford and Ava Miller welcome the Brick Memorial Mock Trial team to "Straight from the Mustang's Mouth"! Advisor Mrs. Corde-Leone joins team members Sofia Salsa, Tatyana Williams, Peyton Carp, Lilah Breen, and Miranda Maneiro to discuss the art of courtroom competition. Hear about their preparation, what it takes to argue a case, and how Mock Trial develops critical thinking skills, public speaking skills, and an amazing sense of camaraderie. Get ready for compelling testimony from some of our sharpest Mustangs!

Mrs. Amanda Ingle and senior Bobby Condurso join us on "Straight from the Mustang's Mouth" to share how the Brick Memorial community can make a difference this holiday season through Operation: Christmas Child. Learn how you can donate a shoebox filled with gifts to brighten a child's Christmas and bring joy to those in need. Donations are due by November 14th in room 214—don't miss this chance to give back and spread Mustang kindness around the world!Click here to see the result your kindness!

In this edition of "Heating It Up with Jimmy the Blaze," Mr. Bright sits down with Head Soccer Coach Lecorchick to break down Brick Memorial's exciting soccer season. Coach Lecorchick shares insights into the team's performance, key moments from their matches, and what's been driving the Mustangs' success on the pitch this year. From standout players to strategic game plans, get the inside scoop on what makes this season one to remember. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about teamwork, dedication, and Mustang pride!

Mustangs, ever wonder who's on the other side of your college application? This week, Seniors Emma Idzahl chats with Reagan Emery, the Regional Admissions Representative for the University of South Carolina. Reagan gives us the straight scoop on what she actually looks for when reading essays and evaluating applications. Get the inside track on making your application stand out! Spoiler: It's not always what you think.

In our first Teacher Spotlight of the new school year, we welcome Mrs. Lindsay Marvin, a new teacher in our school, coming over from Vets Middle School. We also see the debut of two of our newest podcast hosts Emma Crowley and Aisling Keating!