The Late Start Show

In Episode 35 of The Late Start Show, we sit down with Deacon Nelson, University School McKinley House prefect, baseball captain, and Auburn commit. Deacon reflects on his journey from a young athlete shaped by family and a deep love for the game to becoming a leader of a rising baseball program at US. He shares what drew him to the school, from the meaningful relationships between students and teachers to the strong sense of brotherhood he experienced on his shadow day, and how those early moments helped him feel at home and build lasting connections within the community.From committing to Virginia as a freshman to navigating a coaching change and ultimately finding the right fit at Auburn, Deacon opens up about handling attention, expectations, and pressure while staying grounded in consistency and preparation. He discusses his growth as a leader through baseball, his role as a house prefect, and his involvement in Focus, highlighting the importance of faith, humility, and connection. Looking ahead, Deacon reflects on his personal growth, what he will miss most about US, and the legacy he hopes to leave behind, one centered on leadership, character, and making a positive impact on others.Credits to Theo Walter for Production and Editing, Russ Nobles for the Intro and Outro songs, Mr. Wickboldt for being our advisor, and you for listening to our podcast and keeping up with the latest US news.

In this Special Annual Fund Live Episode of The Late Start Show, we bring something a little different to the table, three conversations, three perspectives, and one shared purpose. In front of a live audience of students, parents, faculty, and alumni, we sit down with Ms. Kimberly Konrad, kindergarten lead teacher and longtime elementary educator, Mr. Keith Kneisel, middle school math teacher and soccer coach, and Dr. Sarah Laux, science department chairperson and outdoor projects advisor at University School. Each guest represents a different stage of the student experience, but all are united by a deep commitment to teaching, mentorship, and building meaningful relationships with boys. From Ms. Konrad’s journey from public school education into the Lower School and her passion for creating a “circle of care,” to Mr. Kneisel’s unconventional path into teaching and his mission to make middle school both engaging and human, to Dr. Laux’s evolution from wildlife biologist to educator shaping real world scientific inquiry, this episode highlights the people behind the mission. Throughout the episode is a powerful reminder of what makes University School special, and how the Annual Fund helps make experiences like this possible.The conversation moves through early childhood education, the challenges and opportunities of middle school, and the power of experiential learning in science. Ms. Konrad reflects on the importance of play with purpose, relationship building, and helping young boys develop emotional awareness and confidence from their very first days of school. Mr. Kneisel shares how he breaks down the intimidation of math, balances structure with personality, and connects with students both in and out of the classroom, even through something as simple as a growing stack of Mountain Dew cans. Dr. Laux dives into the impact of hands on research, the value of asking real questions without clear answers, and why getting students outside, whether on Lake Kilroy or in the woods, is essential to developing curiosity. Across all three conversations, a common theme emerges, great teaching is not just about content, it is about connection. Each educator opens up about their “why,” revealing that at the center of their work is a desire to make students feel seen, supported, and inspired. This live episode serves as both a celebration of those educators and a reflection of the community that makes it all possible.Credits to Theo Walter for Production and Editing, Russ Nobles for the Intro and Outro songs, Mr. Wickboldt for being our advisor, and you for listening to our podcast and keeping up with the latest US news.

In Episode 33 of The Late Start Show, we sit down with Mrs. Melissa Hamburg, eighth-grade English teacher, middle school English department chair, and varsity soccer coach at University School. She takes us back to her childhood in Georgia, where she grew up as a curious kid who questioned everything, and traces her remarkable journey to becoming one of the school's most influential educators. Mrs. Hamburg reflects on the transformative mentors who shaped her: a soccer coach who taught her work ethic and discipline, a college professor who demanded authenticity over perfection, and a youth pastor who taught her to focus on the present moment rather than worry about every pitch coming her way.The conversation goes through education, openness, and building real community. Mrs. Hamburg shares her experiences teaching in inner-city Atlanta, her choice to move to Ohio, and why she ultimately chose to teach at an all-boys school like University School. She discusses the unique dynamics of teaching boys, the freedom to have honest conversations about masculinity and what it means to “stand on your business”, the challenges of proving herself as a woman coach in a traditionally male-dominated space, and the profound trust that comes from knowing the hearts of the educators shaping your children. She opens up about raising her sons at the same school where she teaches, the delicate balance of being both a teacher and a mom, and her goal to create a classroom where students feel safe being authentically themselves while doing meaningful work. At the center of it all is her why: to ensure that for one hour a day, students feel good at school. She wants to give boys the language to express themselves confidently in any situation, to create a space where they can be real without judgment, and to help them understand that the work they do matters. Credits to Theo Walter for Production and Editing, Russ Nobles for the Intro and Outro songs, Mr. Wickboldt for being our advisor, and you for listening to our podcast and keeping up with the latest US news.

In Episode 32 of The Late Start Show, we sit down with Dr. Doug Smith, University School alumnus (Class of ’79), longtime leader of the Yellowstone Wolf Project, and former senior wildlife biologist at Yellowstone National Park. He takes us back to a childhood shaped by the outdoors at his family’s Red Raider Camp and his early years at University School, where small classes, close mentorship, and outdoor education helped define his path. From there, we follow the pivotal moment of his senior project working with captive wolves, an opportunity that sparked a chain reaction leading to years of fieldwork, advanced study in wildlife biology, and ultimately a career at the center of one of the most ambitious conservation efforts in modern history. Along the way, Dr. Smith reflects on the teachers and coaches who influenced him, the balance between athletics and intellectual curiosity, and the importance of staying broad rather than over-specializing too early.From there, the episode becomes a powerful conversation about conservation, storytelling, and purpose. Dr. Smith shares the reality behind the reintroduction of wolves to Yellowstone, from the early uncertainty and political controversy to the long-term ecological impact through trophic cascades that reshaped entire ecosystems. He discusses the misconceptions he has spent decades correcting, the rise of wolf-watching as a cultural phenomenon, and the challenge of communicating complex science to the public in a meaningful way. More than anything, he reflects on what it means to dedicate a life to something larger than yourself, urging students to pursue what genuinely fascinates them rather than chasing prestige or money. At the center of it all is his why: to give nature a voice, to help restore what was lost, and to remind us that the most meaningful work often comes from passion, curiosity, and a willingness to follow opportunity wherever it leads.Credits to Theo Walter for Production and Editing, Russ Nobles for the Intro and Outro songs, Mr. Wickboldt for being our advisor, and you for listening to our podcast and keeping up with the latest US news.

In Episode 31 of The Late Start Show, we sit down with Tommy Nook, US Class of 2017 alum, former two-time Boston University lacrosse captain, Project 25 marathoner, and founder of Half Hitch Pretzels. Tommy takes us back to a childhood spent just outside Cleveland, growing up in a competitive yet deeply formative household alongside his siblings, including a brother with special needs who shaped his perspective on patience, teamwork, and empathy. From early days in athletics, we follow the evolution of a kid who simply loved to compete into a high-level athlete navigating the pressures of performance, identity, and growth at University School. Along the way, he reflects on the teachers and coaches who pushed him, the lessons learned from not making varsity early on, and the moments that defined his understanding of what it means to be part of something bigger than himself.From there, the episode shifts into a deeper exploration of resilience, leadership, and reinvention. Tommy opens up about his college experience at Boston University, where injuries forced him to redefine his role and ultimately shaped him into a leader, earning back-to-back captaincies even while sidelined. He reflects on the uncertainty of the COVID era, the challenge of leading through chaos, and the identity shift that comes with stepping away from sports. What follows is a story of rediscovery: from door-to-door sales in Florida to an ambitious goal of running 25 marathons in a year, pushing himself to new physical and mental limits. Out of that journey came an unexpected idea, one sparked by a simple post-race moment, that grew into Half Hitch Pretzels. At its core, Tommy returns to a powerful and personal philosophy: to be intentional with his time, to embrace discomfort, and to continuously pursue the best version of himself.Credits to Theo Walter for Production and Editing, Russ Nobles for the Intro and Outro songs, Mr. Wickboldt for being our advisor, and you for listening to our podcast and keeping up with the latest US news.

In Episode 30 of The Late Start Show, we sit down with Mrs. Ashley Worthington, University School English teacher, Head of McCarraher House, and Anderson Scholars and Humanities advisor. She takes us back to a childhood spent between Virginia, Boston, and Ohio, growing up with her twin brother in a close-knit family led by a remarkable single mother, and to the books that first shaped her imagination, from 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea to Goosebumps and The Babysitters Club. From there, we follow the path of a student who loved language, literature, and learning, was deeply influenced by a ninth grade English teacher who changed her life and eventually found her way back to school after time in the corporate world to study English at Ohio State. Mrs. Worthington reflects on how Shakespeare kept calling her back, how teaching always felt like her true direction, and how her first visit to University School, right in the middle of finishing her thesis, quickly made clear that this was where she wanted to be.From there, the episode becomes a conversation about what great teaching actually looks like: not just delivering material, but building curiosity, community, and real human connection. Mrs. Worthington opens up about teaching literature at an all-boys school, making Shakespeare accessible rather than intimidating, and why works like Hamlet still matter because of how powerfully they capture the human experience. She talks about the purpose of daily writing, the creativity behind the annual Shakespeare Assembly, and the challenge of guiding students through long-form humanities research without losing sight of wonder. More than anything, she returns to a simple but powerful philosophy: education should help students feel that what they do matters. And at the center of it all is her why: to care for students well, to help them grow as readers and people, and to make sure they leave her classroom, their house, and this school feeling fulfilled, seen, and connected to something meaningful.Credits to Theo Walter for Production and Editing, Russ Nobles for the Intro and Outro songs, Mr. Wickboldt for being our advisor, and you for listening to our podcast and keeping up with the latest US news.

In Episode 29 of The Late Start Show, we sit down with Coach Michael Perrino, University School’s new head varsity lacrosse coach and assistant to the athletic department. He takes us back to growing up in Solon, Ohio, in a deeply supportive family with his twin brother, and to the humbling first lacrosse practice where the ball flew straight up and hit him in the head. From there, we trace the rise of a multi-sport competitor whose love for the game was shaped by Northeast Ohio’s fierce lacrosse culture, early battles against US, and a trip with his dad to the 2006 national championship that made college lacrosse feel real. Coach Perrino reflects on the whirlwind of recruiting, the shock of the college game, and the path that took him from the College of Wooster to Roanoke and then Canisius, where injuries, transfers, and constant self-evaluation helped sharpen not just the player he was becoming, but the person too. From there, we follow a journey defined by persistence: open tryouts, surgeries, a spot with the Ohio Machine, and eventually a coaching career that stretched from John Carroll to Ohio Wesleyan, St. John Fisher, Baldwin Wallace, Robert Morris, and now back home to University School. Coach Perrino opens up about what actually builds a winning culture, not slogans, but hard work when no one’s watching, real closeness, high standards, and an attitude that lifts everyone around you. He talks about preparing students not just to win games, but to handle adversity, embrace discomfort, and see high school as a “40-year decision, not a four-year decision.” And at the center of it all is his why: relationships. More than wins, losses, or even lacrosse itself, Coach Perrino says the reason he coaches is to build lasting bonds with players and help them long after the final whistle.Credits to Theo Walter for Production and Editing, Russ Nobles for the Intro and Outro songs, Mr. Wickboldt for being our advisor, and you for listening to our podcast and keeping up with the latest US news.

In Episode 28 of The Late Start Show, we sit down with Danny Sullivan, senior diver on University School’s five-time straight state champion swimming and diving team, Anderson House prefect, golfer, skier, and musician. Danny reflects on growing up as a quiet kid who slowly grew into himself, arriving at US in seventh grade unsure of whether he belonged, and how that uncertainty quickly gave way to deep friendships, lasting traditions, and a genuine love for the school community. He looks back on some of the people and moments that shaped him most, from the handshake line and the friendships built in the halls to teachers like Mr. Richmond who helped him discover the value of persistence, confidence, and growth. From the fear and focus required on the diving board to the mental pressure of individual sports like golf, Danny opens up about learning how to trust his preparation, push through fear, and lead with consistency. He shares what it has meant to serve as a house prefect, the story behind his memorable senior speech performance at the piano, and why leadership, kindness, and community have become the values that matter most to him. Looking ahead to Middlebury and a future that may include economics, environmental studies, skiing, golf, and plenty of new interests, Danny talks about wanting a life centered on passion, friendship, and growth, and leaves listeners with a clear “why”: the people around him, the community he has built, and the chance to keep showing up for others while doing what he loves. Credits to Theo Walter for Production and Editing, Russ Nobles for the Intro and Outro songs, Mr. Wickboldt for being our advisor, and you for listening to our podcast and keeping up with the latest US news.

In Episode 27 of The Late Start Show, we sit down with Adonis Wazni, senior, captain of the Public Forum debate team, president of the Student Investment Committee, and science researcher. Adonis reflects on growing up at University School as a lifer, what it’s been like finally sharing campus with his younger brother, and how joining debate in eighth grade helped him grow from an introvert into a confident speaker and leader. He also shares how he got involved in school spirit work behind the scenes and dives into his award-winning science research, including a biomimicry project inspired by penguins, sharks, water striders, and even golf balls to reduce noise pollution and wake from container ships. From navigating 13 different debate partners over four years to finally qualifying for both states and nationals, Adonis opens up about resilience, communication, and what it means to lead with consistency. He talks about how classes like stats, science, English, and economics shaped the way he thinks in debate, what he hopes to build in the Student Investment Committee by making sure every voice is heard, and why he sees college as a chance to keep learning before narrowing his focus. He also reflects on his powerful senior speech about names, identity, and assumptions, and closes with a “why” rooted in effort, gratitude, and growth: if he’s going to do something, he’s going to give it his best.Credits to Theo Walter for Production and Editing, Russ Nobles for the Intro and Outro songs, Mr. Wickboldt for being our advisor, and you for listening to our podcast and keeping up with the latest US news.

In Episode 26 of The Late Start Show, Charlie Martin and Jack Nelson sit down with David “Russ” Nobles, University School rapper, track athlete, and winner of the Sherman Prize Speaking Contest, for a funny, honest, and surprisingly deep conversation about identity, confidence, and chasing what you actually love. Starting with Russ shadowing Charlie back in 5th grade (and famously being most impressed by the buffet lunch), the episode traces how Russ found community at US, started rapping young, and learned to trust his voice, especially once classmates supported his first songs and beats instead of boxing him into stereotypes. Russ also breaks down what he wishes people understood about rap: that it’s not just “loud” or “vulgar,” but an art form tied to storytelling, social justice, and real change, shaped by artists he respects like J. Cole, Kendrick Lamar, Tupac, and more. The conversation then dives into the Sherman Prize journey: what the contest is, how he chose a message “only he could tell,” why he had to rap on that stage, and the behind-the-scenes grind of making every line land out loud. Russ relives the nerves right before he went on (“don’t mess it up”), the surreal moment his name got called as the winner, and the bigger takeaway he hopes people remember, your dream isn’t “less important” just because it doesn’t fit the typical path. Along the way, he shouts out the teachers who’ve had his back (especially Dr. Matthew Foulds), shares what track taught him about resilience and “quick memory,” and looks ahead to what’s next musically, songs in the vault, visuals, and a dream of rapping on a Tyler, the Creator beat. The episode closes with Russ’s “why”: showing up for the kids who feel like outcasts, and proving that being unapologetically yourself is more than a vibe, it’s the whole point.Credits to Russ Nobles for the Intro and Outro songs, Mr. Wickboldt for being our advisor, and you for listening to our podcast and keeping up with the latest US news.

In Episode 25 of The Late Start Show, Charlie Martin and Jack Nelson sit down with Mr. Robert Sherman, University School alumnus (Class of 2014), NewsNation international correspondent, and bestselling author of Lessons from the Front, for a wide-ranging conversation that starts in Northeast Ohio and spans the world. Calling in from Abu Dhabi amid major Ukraine–Russia–U.S. negotiations, Sherman reflects on the values that shaped him early, being a “go-getter,” building opportunities when no one hands them to you, and believing there’s “no weakness in kindness.” From his “lifer” years at US to launching USPN and learning by doing, he explains how curiosity, reps, and saying “yes” turned a love of broadcasting into a career built on real-world stories. The conversation dives into the moments that transformed his perspective: reporting a heartbreaking early story in Alabama that taught him journalism can tangibly change lives, covering breaking news across the U.S., and then stepping onto the world stage when Russia invaded Ukraine, watching history unfold at the border as families fled for survival. Sherman also shares what it was like arriving in Israel the day after October 7, how conflict reporting reshaped his understanding of time and home, and why, despite everything, he’s more optimistic about humanity than ever. Along the way, he takes listeners inside unforgettable “pinch me” rooms, from Rome’s conclave and a viral question to Pope Leo XIV, to the bigger lesson he keeps returning to: the world isn’t black-and-white, and his “why” is a lifelong pursuit of listening, learning, and understanding. Credits to Russ Nobles for the Intro and Outro songs, Mr. Wickboldt for being our advisor, and you for listening to our podcast and keeping up with the latest US news.

In Episode 24 of The Late Start Show, Charlie Martin and Jack Nelson sit down with Mr. Jeff Pierce, University School’s Jr. K - 8 enrichment specialist, middle school speech & debate coach, and history specialist, to trace the winding path that shaped his life in education. From growing up in Columbus and thriving as a student, to studying history at Harvard, to a formative stint volunteering abroad, Mr. Pierce shares how curiosity (and a willingness to take big leaps) eventually carried him to teaching overseas, where a “one-year” plan in Hong Kong turned into a 14-year chapter in international education. The conversation dives into what it’s like returning to the U.S. after years abroad, what makes University School special, and how debate, enrichment, and genuine student opportunities can build lifelong skills beyond the gradebook. Along the way, Mr. Pierce reflects on family, coaching, raising two boys at US, and the values that ground him when life gets busy, making the world a better place, and believing that “Pierces can do hard things.”Credits to Russ Nobles for the Intro and Outro songs, Mr. Wickboldt for being our advisor, and you for listening to our podcast and keeping up with the latest US news.

In Episode 23 of Season Two of The Late Start Show, we sit down with two University School seniors who took different paths to US, and found their place in the same community: Colin Milbourn, a two-sport athlete in football and basketball who transferred in looking for a bigger challenge, and Kingston Oliver, a varsity basketball player and cellist whose move to US brought an early culture shock and a fast transition through sports. Together, they reflect on what it really feels like to “find your footing” at a new school, meeting people through teams, leaning on teachers and mentors, and discovering that brotherhood shows up in everything from the classroom to the student section. Along the way, they shout out the classes and educators that shaped their experience and talk about how sports, clubs, and music widened their circles and built relationships that stuck. From there, the conversation shifts to senior-year leadership and what it means to carry yourself when the stakes are higher, staying steady in big moments, leading by example, and helping build a culture where showing up for each other is the norm. Colin and Kingston break down the energy behind this year’s school spirit, why their class has kept it going, and how support can look like cheering at games—or showing up to an orchestra concert. They also get real about balancing academics, athletics, friends, and family, share what they’ll miss most about a small-school environment, and offer advice to younger students on finding support early and making the most of the time you have. They close with their “why”: gratitude for family sacrifice, and a commitment to being intentional in everything they do.Credits to Theo Walter for Production and Editing, Russ Nobles for the Intro and Outro songs, Mr. Wickboldt for being our advisor, and you for listening to our podcast and keeping up with the latest US news.

In Episode 22 of Season Two of The Late Start Show, we sit down with Mr. Terry Lipford ’98, University School alum, middle school teacher, basketball coach, and Director of the REACH Program. Growing up on Cleveland’s east side in a family of educators, Mr. Lipford reflects on the early influences that shaped his values, community, discipline, and pride in identity. He shares what it was like arriving at US in seventh grade, finding his footing through football and basketball, and forming lasting connections through teams, mentors, and the school’s Black student community. From high-stakes basketball moments to the teachers and coaches who pushed him to grow, he explains why US became a place that helped him see both who he was and who he could become.From there, Mr. Lipford walks us through his path after graduation: choosing John Carroll University, studying business, spending time in the corporate world, and ultimately realizing his calling was in education. We dive deep into the REACH Program, its origins, mission, and impact as a three-summer academic and identity-affirming experience for African American middle school boys, and what sets it apart from traditional enrichment or admissions pipelines. Mr. Lipford breaks down how REACH measures success, why brotherhood and belonging matter as much as grades, and what it means to see alumni return as mentors and leaders. He closes by reflecting on legacy, service, and his “why”: family, responsibility, and giving back to the community that helped shape him.Credits to Theo Walter for Production and Editing, Russ Nobles for the Intro and Outro songs, Mr. Wickboldt for being our advisor, and you for listening to our podcast and keeping up with the latest US news.

In Episode 21 of Season Two of The Late Start Show, we sit down with Russell Breuer ’98, University School alum and the founder and CEO of Spot & Tango, the fresh pet food company shaking up how we think about pet health. Growing up in Shaker Heights, and later commuting from Aurora after his family moved, Mr. Breuer reflects on his path through US and the teachers, trips, and community that stuck with him. He shares why the “do everything” spirit of US mattered: playing soccer and tennis, becoming editor-in-chief of The Mabian, and learning the kind of structured, first-principles problem solving he still leans on as a CEO. From there, Mr. Breuer walks us through Emory, studying Spanish and international studies (inspired in part by his family’s Venezuelan roots), and how that global focus turned into a consulting career that started in Washington, DC (Kaiser Associates) and unexpectedly became eight years in London, passport and all. We dive into the origin story of Spot & Tango: his wife cooking fresh meals for their mini goldendoodle, late nights in a Queens incubator kitchen, and the “dark times” grind (apron, hair net, and bike-messenger deliveries) that eventually pushed him to go all-in in April 2018. We unpack what “personalized” pet nutrition really means, the idea behind UnKibble (freeze-dried, shelf-stable, and designed to cut cold-chain cost), and the scaling moments, like selling out in three days after launching in April 2020 and building real-world manufacturing muscle in Allentown. Mr. Breuer also breaks down the rebrand to “Spot & Tango,” the launch of Pup Gum, what’s next (including a Canada move on March 1 and brick-and-mortar on the roadmap), and closes with the legacy he wants to leave, giving back, and his “why”: grit. Credits to Theo Walter for Production and Editing, Russ Nobles for the Intro and Outro songs, Mr. Wickboldt for being our advisor, and you for listening to our podcast and keeping up with the latest US news.

In Episode 20 of Season Two of The Late Start Show, we sit down with Tony Peebles ’81, veteran banker and finance leader, longtime civic fundraiser, Baldwin Wallace University’s Alumni Engagement Director, and a current University School board member. Growing up in Cleveland’s Lee-Harvard neighborhood with two educator parents (a PE teacher mom and a shop-teacher dad), Tony reflects on being an introverted kid who found his voice through music (he started guitar at age seven) and the mentors who pushed him to work hard. He shares how CCIS-era recruiting and a “Major Works” cohort from Gracemont brought him to US in seventh grade, and how Western Civ, public speaking, and the jazz band (including a Boston tour by Amtrak) helped shape his confidence, humility, and love of teamwork. From there, Tony traces his path to Duke, from a Stanford dream vetoed by his mom to a campus visit made powerful by the reality that Duke would’ve been segregated for his father and grandfather. He tells stories of ACC basketball energy (and seeing legends up close) before unpacking the relationship-driven breaks that built his career: an Ameritrust summer internship arranged through US connections that turned into a full-time management trainee role and, eventually, a decades-long run in financial services, including major responsibility at Fifth Third and an MBA earned while working full-time. We dive into what alumni engagement really means, “time, talent, and treasure”, and why Tony believes staying involved is one of the most underrated leadership skills. He closes with the legacy he hopes to leave at US (keeping doors open for talented students from every background) and his “why”: giving back, guided by his father’s rules about faith, family, and leading with integrity.Credits to Theo Walter for Production and Editing, Russ Nobles for the Intro and Outro songs, Mr. Wickboldt for being our advisor, and you for listening to our podcast and keeping up with the latest US news.

In Episode 19 of Season Two of The Late Start Show, the second half of their fireside conversation, Charlie Martin and Jack Nelson sit down once again with Mr. Harmon: legendary science teacher, storyteller, and the driving force behind University School’s Outdoor Projects. Mr. Harmon pulls back the curtain on how the “outdoors” at US is really a living science lab, connecting classroom concepts to real-world systems. He breaks down everything from calorimetry and the energy content of different woods to the trout hatchery’s year-round water system and the live plankton it provides for biology labs, to the physics (and chemistry) behind maple sugaring, photosynthesis, sap flow, osmotic pressure, and even freeze-thaw dynamics. Along the way, he reflects on the origins of Outdoor Projects (and the early Outward Bound–style challenges), why forest health matters more than ever, from invasive pests threatening beech trees to the overlooked importance of soil science, and what it means to protect the campus as a “trust,” not “land waiting for development.” The conversation closes with the show’s signature question, “What is your why?”, as Mr. Harmon shares a simple, powerful philosophy: be human, be charitable, and make decisions that help more than hurt. Happy Holidays, and have a great winter break. Stay tuned for more episodes as we keep capturing the stories (and wisdom) of the legends who make University School what it is. Credits to Theo Walter for Production and Editing, Russ Nobles for the Intro and Outro songs, Mr. Wickboldt for being our advisor, and you for listening to our podcast and keeping up with the latest US news.

In Episode 18 of Season 2 of The Late Start Show (and the next year of The Harmon Holiday Special), Charlie Martin and Jack Nelson sit down by the fire with Mr. Terry Harmon, legendary science teacher and Outdoor Projects advisor at University School, to talk all things winter on campus. From the first real signs of the season to the magic of a frozen Lake Kilroy, Mr. Harmon breaks down how the school measures ice safety (and where not to step), then goes deep on what’s happening beneath the ice, why water behaves so strangely, why ice floats, and how big bodies of water shape weather (and even agriculture) around Lake Erie. Along the way, he revisits the unforgettable winter of 1977–78, connects the brook trout to the bigger story of wilderness and conservation, and shares the personal moments that sparked his love of trout, from childhood canoe trips in Canada to hatching eggs at home and helping launch the school’s trout hatchery decades ago. This episode is equal parts a science lesson, winter story time, and a love letter to the outdoors, perfect to listen to while it’s cold outside. Stay tuned for Part 2 as we rebuild the fire and keep the conversation going.Credits to Theo Walter for Production and Editing, Russ Nobles for the Intro and Outro songs, Mr. Wickboldt for being our advisor, and you for listening to our podcast and keeping up with the latest US news.

In Episode 17 of Season Two of The Late Start Show, we sit down with Mr. Dan Swander ’61, University School lifer, veteran consumer products executive, and co-founder of consulting firm Swander Pace & Company and private equity firm Swander Pace Capital. Growing up in the backyard of the Shaker Campus, Dan shares memories of walking across the fields to kindergarten, remembering every teacher from first grade through senior year, and having US at the center of his life. He reflects on the mentors who shaped him such as his coaches and teachers, the early days of sixth-grade football and undefeated varsity soccer, and what’s changed (and what hasn’t) as US evolved into a two-campus, more diverse, greater-Cleveland school community. He traces an “unplanned” career from Trinity College and Wharton to McKinsey, built around curiosity, a love of consumer products, and the occasional unconventional answer, like telling a McKinsey psychologist he’d come back as an otter.From turning around a struggling food company by taking office doors off their hinges to helping build large brands, Dan unpacks the leadership principles that have guided him: flipping the leadership chart upside down, betting on teams instead of lone geniuses, and focusing on real dollar margins instead of just percentages. He talks candidly about short attention span in modern entrepreneurship, how AI and automation will reshape work while opening doors in skilled trades, and what it was like to balance six kids with a demanding career. Now deeply involved in his church and Winter Nights Family Shelter, Dan reflects on legacy, service, and staying engaged, and shares his “why”: to stay curious, work hard, make mistakes, give back to his community, and wake up each day asking, “What can I do that matters today?”Credits to Theo Walter for Production and Editing, Russ Nobles for the Intro and Outro songs, Mr. Wickboldt for being our advisor, and you for listening to our podcast and keeping up with the latest US news.

In Episode 16 of Season Two of The Late Start Show, we sit down with Carter Loeser, senior football linebacker, Jarvis Scholar, and student entrepreneur. Carter walks us through arriving at US as a freshman, what the Jarvis Scholarship has meant for his sense of purpose, and how stepping into a bigger academic and social world pushed him to grow in confidence and ambition. Along the way, he reflects on the importance of community, strong teacher support, and the people who helped turn a potentially overwhelming transition into a place that feels like home. From the toughness of football to the unexpected pivot of coaching JV basketball with his dad after a sophomore-year ACL injury, Carter shares how setbacks taught him resilience and how leadership can be earned through consistency and care. He also dives into theater, and the origin story of Good For You Smoothies and Not So Good For You Milkshakes, an Anderson Scholars business that became a school staple (and even landed a Cleveland Magazine feature). Looking ahead, Carter talks business, economics, and finance aspirations, potential college fits, and his hope to pass the smoothie torch to younger students. His “why” comes back to the same core theme: the people around him, family, teammates, friends, and a community worth giving his best to.Credits to Theo Walter for Production and Editing, Russ Nobles for the Intro and Outro songs, Mr. Wickboldt for being our advisor, and you for listening to our podcast and keeping up with the latest US news.

In Episode 15 of Season Two of The Late Start Show, we sit down with Mr. Bill Conway ’45, University School alum, Yale football captain, mining entrepreneur, golf-course founder, and cornerstone of Cleveland philanthropy. He takes us back to a Cleveland childhood as the seventh of thirteen children, growing up in the shadow of the Great Depression and World War II while his father rose through Fisher Foods and moved the family to a house just behind US so “all those boys” could attend. We trace his days sprinting across the Shaker campus fields to chapel, marching in wartime drills under Teacher Major Gunn, and learning from demanding, formative teachers and coaches, all while absorbing family mottos like “be a giver, not a taker.” From there, Mr. Conway walks us through Yale in the final days of WWII, a pivot from chemical to industrial engineering, and a hard-hitting Ivy League football career that led to a brief stint as an assistant coach before he headed north to the iron-ore pits of Minnesota and then halfway across the world to open a mine in Australia. Mr. Conway reflects on five decades of building people-centered companies, from buying a sand quarry in Chardon and treating miners as true partners, to joining forces with Chuck Fowler to create Fairmount Minerals, an industrial sand powerhouse grounded in the mantra “do good, do well.” Along the way, we talk about what it meant to see Fairmount listed on the New York Stock Exchange, him making a golf course, and his deep support for institutions like University School. At 98, his advice is simple: listen more than you talk, look for the positive, be grateful, and use each day to make things a little better for your family, your community, and the wider world, because his “why” is, and always has been, to honor the gifts he was given by giving generously in return.Credits to Theo Walter for Production and Editing, Russ Nobles for the Intro and Outro songs, Mr. Wickboldt for being our advisor, and you for listening to our podcast and keeping up with the latest US news.

In Episode 14 of Season Two of The Late Start Show, we sit down with Z Cimoroni, senior, hockey and lacrosse player, award-winning percussionist, and Sherman Price Speaking Contest finalist. He takes us back to growing up in Shaker Heights, finding his way to US when Shaker dropped its honors classes, and walking the track during ILT with the friends who became his core group. Z opens up about what it was like to start here in the middle of COVID, how the brotherhood and incredible teachers pulled him into the community, and why having his younger brother John at US has made his own experience feel even more meaningful. From packed student sections at “the Bart” to the noise of the locker room, Z reflects on the culture behind US hockey’s success, navigating injury and time away from the game, and how sports have sharpened his leadership and mental approach. In the classroom and beyond, he shares how Anderson Scholars in Entrepreneurship, Spanish Honor Society, and jazz ensemble helped him find a passion for business and economics, and what it took to deliver his Sherman “Demons in Our Pockets” speech on phones and social media without freezing on stage. Looking ahead to a high-spirit, high-academic college where he can study business or economics, Z talks about family-led college tours, being remembered as someone who worked hard and was kind, and his “why”: a genuine love for hockey, drums, and lacrosse, a willingness to “embrace the suck” in the hard moments, and a daily drive to make “tomorrow you better than today.”Credits to Theo Walter for Production and Editing, Russ Nobles for the Intro and Outro songs, Mr. Wickboldt for being our advisor, and you for listening to our podcast and keeping up with the latest US news.

In Episode 13 of Season Two of The Late Start Show, we sit down with Mr. Kevin O’Brien, English teacher, coach, and mindfulness advocate at University School. He takes us from a Cleveland childhood fueled by library stacks and elementary-school talent shows to a life-changing scholarship at Phillips Academy Andover, where mentors and coaches sharpened his love of literature, leadership, and team culture. We trace his journey from multi-sport athlete to Division I lacrosse at Penn (and a position switch that taught him humility), and the winding early-career path through New York film sets, the wake of 9/11, and head-coaching stints that ultimately led him home to US after impactful chapters in Potomac, Western Reserve Academy, Episcopal Academy, and The Hill School. Mr. O’Brien reflects on building classroom and team trust, why boys thrive when they can be their full selves, and how journaling, breath, and “discernment” turn hot takes into thoughtful choices. We get into attention in the age of AI, the battle for focus in an attention economy, and why he has students write to “figure it out”, because, as he reminds them, “paper is more patient than people.” He unpacks what real preparation looks like at US, the mentors who shaped him, and the quote he keeps close about our finite time, attention, and energy. His “why”? Simple: to be kind, to help students do hard things, and to honor the teachers, coaches, and family who made that possible.Credits to Theo Walter for Production and Editing, Russ Nobles for the Intro and Outro songs, Mr. Wickboldt for being our advisor, and you for listening to our podcast and keeping up with the latest US news.

In Episode 12 of Season Two of The Late Start Show, we sit down with Will Allen, senior, head varsity debate captain, and US baseball player. He takes us from transferring in from Chagrin Falls and finding his footing to the upperclassman mentors who brought him in and why microeconomics with Mr. Heath became a turning point. On the baseball field, Will relives last year’s historic run to the state finals and relentless summer work that forged US Baseball’s culture. In the classroom and beyond, he shares why he jumped into orchestra and how he manages a schedule that swings from practice to tournaments to late-night homework.From captaining one of Ohio’s top Public Forum squads to serving as treasurer on the Student Investment, Will opens up about leadership, goal setting, and what’s next, an economics track in college, a possible finance or data angle, and a dream of bringing home a debate state title while chasing another deep baseball playoff run. What does US mean to him now? Waking up excited to come to school, and to the work after the bell. His “why”? To be “a little bit better at everything you do every day”, to keep showing up, keep improving, and keep building something bigger with the people around him.Credits to Theo Walter for Production and Editing, Russ Nobles for the Intro and Outro songs, Mr. Wickboldt for being our advisor, and you for listening to our podcast and keeping up with the latest US news.

In Episode 11 of Season Two of The Late Start Show, we sit down with Ben Malbasa, head varsity football coach, English teacher, and US ’96 alum. He takes us from the Lower School’s early days of theme learning (and the teachers who shaped him) to being “cut” from basketball and welcomed onto the bench as an assistant, his doorway into coaching. We trace his path from Ohio State to John Carroll, why he sees law as a true liberal art, and the years building programs at Elyria Catholic, Benedictine, and NDCL before returning home to US in 2015 with the encouragement of Jim Stephens and Bill O’Neill. Coach Malbasa reflects on US’s identity as an early spread-offense adopter, the brotherhood born from 6:30 a.m. summer lifts, and the “flow” that happens when leaders lead leaders. He relives a rough Week 5 loss, the best week of practice he’s ever seen, and a rivalry win that reset the season, plus the electric Friday-night game under the lights at the Shaker campus that pulled the whole community together this year. From goals to what legacy really means, Coach shares the message he keeps close to him: “This will not be the best thing you do; it will be a sign.” We talk about the humor and humility that define US, his pitch to student-athletes and what it’s meant to share the school with his own family. He breaks down why English class matters, why Shakespeare’s St. Crispin’s Day speech is the blueprint for nearly every pregame talk, and why great literature, from Macbeth to Gatsby, survives. His “why”? An “irrational belief in the importance” of teaching, coaching, and helping young people pursue big goals together, and the conviction that there’s always a next big thing.Credits to Theo Walter for Production and Editing, Russ Nobles for the Intro and Outro songs, Mr. Wickboldt for being our advisor, and you for listening to our podcast and keeping up with the latest US news.

In Episode 10 of Season Two of The Late Start Show, we sit down with senior Chase Takaoka, pep rally mastermind, Prep Squad spirit leader, and award-winning street photographer. Chase talks about his family (including trips to visit his grandparents in Japan), how travel turned into a love for immersive food hunts and candid street shots, and the classroom spark that pushed him from “landscapes” to storytelling with strangers. He contrasts the quietness of Tokyo with Cleveland game-day chaos, remembers the neon-out under the lights at Shaker, and explains why real school spirit means showing up loud and together.From freshman-year to becoming senior, Chase opens up about growth, a tough leg surgery and recovery, and the moments that made this year feel different. He shares the story behind his national Silver Medal in the 2025 Scholastic Art & Writing Awards, a striking shot outside a public smoking box in Ikebukuro, and introduces his new nonprofit, the Backstage Pass Project, bringing instruments, lessons, and music therapy access to kids who need it. We talk whiteouts with baby powder, packing the stands for hockey, and what it means to leave a legacy that makes US feel big: civil, rowdy, and proud. Chase sums up his “why” simply, friends, family, and the drive to show up, be better, and help the community do the same.Credits to Theo Walter for Production and Editing, Russ Nobles for the Intro and Outro songs, Mr. Wickboldt for being our advisor, and you for listening to our podcast and keeping up with the latest US news.

In Episode 9 of Season Two of The Late Start Show, we sit down with Mr. Bo Montanye, middle school science teacher, head of the House system at the Shaker Campus, and longtime soccer coach. Growing up where New York, Massachusetts, and Vermont meet, Mr. Montanye recalls life at a tiny boarding school, captaining three sports, and as the “weird kid who wanted to know everything.” He traces his path to Colgate, where a Geology class rerouted him from astrophysics to rocks and isotopes where along the way he double majored in Classical Studies, discovered intramural sports, and via ballroom dance and Dancefest, met his future wife. He shares beloved Colgate traditions like “Geo Pizza,”. From lake muds to middle school labs, Mr. Montanye walks us through grad work at the University of Akron (reconstructing 400 years of ecological change in Lake Tanganyika, a three-week ocean research cruise off Costa Rica, and the infamous acid-hood mishap that took away his sense of smell), then opens the door to his classroom: the splashy Archimedes density lab, film-can rocket investigations, and geologic time projects that turn billion-year scales into baseball fields and world-spanning strings. We talk coaching A-team soccer, why House Cup traditions build real brotherhood, how student leaders learn by carving pumpkins and planning assemblies, and what it means to enroll his own son at US. A huge Pokémon fan who still chases tournaments, Montanye dreams of visiting every active lava lake on Earth, from Hawai‘i to Antarctica to the Congo, and sums up his “why” with a line from a certain 90s theme song: to be a little better every day, helping kids stay curious, hands-on, and excited to learn.Credits to Theo Walter for Production and Editing, Russ Nobles for the Intro and Outro songs, Mr. Wickboldt for being our advisor, and you for listening to our podcast and keeping up with the latest US news.

In Episode 8 of Season Two of The Late Start Show, we sit down with Joe Brown ’85, lifelong flyer, community-builder, and former president/chairman of Hartzell Propeller. Growing up in Shaker Heights and arriving at US in seventh grade, Joe talks about middle and high school and its fake courts, and shop teachers who mentored him, and teachers who kept him going even when classes were challenging. He shares his favorite US memories and then traces his path to Middlebury College, where his professor’s response to his first paper reframed his thinking of what school was, and set the tone for a career built on curiosity and craft. From the plant floor to the corner office, Joe talks about discipline, his love of flight, and a family mantra, “Let’s go be somebody”, that shaped decades at Hartzell and later Tailwind Technologies. He talks about the company’s slogan, “Built on Honor,” its Wright Brothers roots, flying 500 hours a year to meet customers, and hard calls like selling Hartzell Aviation in 2023. We dive into Yellow House, the residential community he co-founded in Vermont for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and what he’s learned from his daughter’s joyful empathy. Joe reflects on US brotherhood that became a lifelong network, and why our generation must be the “restoration generation”. He closes with his “why”: to pay it back and pay it forward, showing up for his kids and new grandchild, and pouring gratitude into purposeful work every day.Credits to Theo Walter for Production and Editing, Russ Nobles for the Intro and Outro songs, Mr. Wickboldt for being our advisor, and you for listening to our podcast and keeping up with the latest US news

In Episode 7 of Season Two of The Late Start Show, we sat down with Griff Koch, a Sanders House prefect, varsity football captain, and Columbia Football commit. A US lifer who grew up minutes from the Shaker campus, Griff reminisces about castle-marshmallow launches, eighth-grade current-events classes that sparked a love of history, and the lower-school coaches who first showed him what great teams feel like. He traces his path from multi-sport kid to the varsity O-line, through an ACL setback and back again, and credits his older captains and teachers for pulling him in and showing him how to lead.The conversation spans recruiting highs and hard lessons like gaining 50 pounds the right way, turning “I’m nervous” into “I’m excited,” dimmer-switch game-day prep, and why Twitter and persistence finally put his film in front of the right coaches. Griff opens up about choosing Columbia, loving the staff’s intensity, and a program on the rise, plus his academic curiosity that ranges from biology to economics. He reflects on prefect duties, house culture, and what he’ll miss most about US. He closes with his “why”: to honor the sacrifices of family, classmates, and teachers by chasing excellence every day, so that his effort matches what others have poured into him.Credits to Theo Walter for Production and Editing, Russ Nobles for the Intro and Outro songs, Mr. Wickboldt for being our advisor, and you for listening to our podcast and keeping up with the latest US news.

In Episode 6 of Season Two of The Late Start Show, we sat down with Nico and Matteo Morelli, University School brothers, varsity football standouts, and proud members of McKinley House. From first days at US and finding their footing in the weight room to a great moment when Nico’s first varsity touchdown sprung loose behind Matteo’s block, the Morelli brothers unpack how sibling synergy, locker-room culture, and mentors shaped their grit and leadership.The conversation spans recruiting highs and lows, including Matteo’s summer hamstring setback and the resilience that followed, Nico’s early camp reps and film-first mindset, and the daily discipline that comes from planners, late-night film, and teachers who change your trajectory. They salute past coaches, celebrate their mom’s cooking business at home, and talk house pride, and paying it forward to younger teammates. The brothers close with their “why”: to be great, leave a legacy of effort, and honor their family’s work ethic, so that when people hear “Morelli,” they think of a standard to live up to.Credits to Theo Walter for Production and Editing, Russ Nobles for the Intro and Outro songs, Mr. Wickboldt for being our advisor, and you for listening to our podcast and keeping up with the latest US news.

In Episode 5 of Season Two of The Late Start Show, Charlie Martin and Jack Nelson sit down with Anthony Doerr, University School Class of 1991 alum, New York Times bestselling author, and Pulitzer Prize winner. From library runs and Outdoor Projects days with Mr. Terry Harmon to a home that celebrated curiosity, Doerr reflects on how his Cleveland roots, US education, and early obsessions with stories forged his voice.The conversation traces Bowdoin College, post-grad years in Telluride and mailing stories to magazines, and the life-jolting Rome Prize. Doerr unpacks his bestselling novel All the Light We Cannot See, an interrupted cell call on a train that led him to radio, propaganda, and the unseen light spectrum, and the whirlwind of global success, and a craft-first reset that produced his next ambitious novel Cloud Cuckoo Land. He urges students to “chase your enthusiasm” and find awe anywhere (even in a migrating hummingbird), speaks candidly about working through a concussion, and closes with his “why”: to arrange words that light up images in a stranger’s mind, connect us, and make the world feel a little less lonely.Credits to Theo Walter for Production and Editing, Russ Nobles for the Intro and Outro songs, Mr. Wickboldt for being our advisor, and you for listening to our podcast and keeping up with the latest US news.

In Episode 4 of Season Two of The Late Start Show, Charlie Martin and Jack Nelson sit down with Mrs. Ullery, Assistant Director of College Counseling, sophomore class dean, former Director of IT, and longtime librarian at University School, to trace a career defined by curiosity, care, and community-building.The conversation spans her Summit County roots with a twin and two teacher parents; a Spanish major at Miami University that led to study abroad in Mexico and a first teaching post in Wichita; a return to Ohio for Cleveland Heights classrooms and a Kent State master’s in instructional technology and library media; and her 2004 arrival at US as librarian before stepping in as Director of IT to help lead the school’s COVID-19 pivot. She spotlights book club lunches, advising one of the first all-boys One Love chapters, the sponsor system, sophomore-year growth, archival traditions like the first- and last-day handshake, and her WKYC digital-detox message, along with thoughtful guidance on AI and learning to “give up a little control” to spark authentic dialogue. Closing with gratitude (from her Thanksgiving assembly) and a clear “why,” Mrs. Ullery says her purpose is simple: love people well, take care of them, and make sure they know they matter.Credits to Theo Walter for Production and Editing, Russ Nobles for the Intro and Outro songs, Mr. Wickboldt for being our advisor, and you for listening to our podcast and keeping up with the latest US news.

In Episode 3 of Season Two of The Late Start Show, Charlie Martin and Jack Nelson sit down with Jordan Barham, University School Class of 2012 alum and professional basketball player. From backyard battles and multi-sport seasons at US to becoming the program’s all-time leading scorer, Jordan reflects on how family sacrifice, tough coaching, and a tight brotherhood forged his edge.The conversation traces his choice of Davidson College, the shock-and-learn curve of Division I speed, and hard match-ups like Duke, UNC, UVA, and stars like Jabari Parker and Andrew Wiggins, plus a trip to the college slam dunk contest. Jordan opens about a globe-spanning pro career in France, the Czech Republic, Morocco, Saudi Arabia, and Luxembourg; lessons from mentors like Coaches Lipford, Oslan, Zappas, and Stevens; and the senior-night memory that still gives him chills. Looking ahead to NBA scouting and front-office paths back home, he closes with his “why”: to honor his mom and brother’s decades of sacrifice and keep chasing a game he loved long before he was paid to play it.Credits to Theo Walter for Production and Editing, Russ Nobles for the Intro and Outro songs, Mr. Wickboldt for being our advisor, and you for listening to our podcast and keeping up with the latest US news.

In Episode 2 of Season Two of The Late Start Show, Charlie Martin and Jack Nelson sit down with Travis Phillips, a senior, Peters House prefect, and standout double bassist at University School. From arriving at US in first grade to balancing AP rigor, varsity football, and conservatory-level practice, Travis shares how discipline, great coaching, and community shaped his pursuit of excellence.The conversation follows his training at Music School Settlement, Interlochen, and the Cleveland Institute of Music; acceptance into the Cleveland Orchestra Youth Orchestra; and a national NYO residency culminating in a Carnegie Hall debut and Dominican Republic tour. He spotlights his Anderson Scholars project, measuring rosin friction with an infrared rig built alongside Mr. McEwen, plus lessons from tough courses and time-management. Looking ahead to biomedical engineering and double-bass performance (with Northwestern atop the list), Travis closes with his “why”: wake up every day striving to be the best.Credits to Theo Walter for Production and Editing, Russ Nobles for the Intro and Outro songs, Mr. Wickboldt for being our advisor, and you for listening to our podcast and keeping up with the latest US news.

In Episode 1 of Season Two of The Late Start Show, Charlie Martin and Jack Nelson sit down with Mr. Patrick Gallagher, Head of School at University School. From growing up in Strongsville as the youngest of five to leading US through a period of renewal and growth, Mr. Gallagher shares his journey through teaching, mentorship, and mission-driven leadership.The conversation traces his path from St. Edward High School and early lessons in hard work to formative years at Culver Academies with three dedicated mentors, his move to US in 2005, and roles as English teacher, college counselor, and Dean of Faculty before becoming interim—and then permanent—Head of School in 2018. He reflects on preserving tradition while “cultivating gardens,” the power of gratitude, and a whole-boy education across athletics, arts, and experiential learning. Mr. Gallagher also celebrates US brotherhood, alumni impact, and his “why”: ensuring every boy is known by caring adults and challenged to think deeply, work hard, and lead with character.Credits to Theo Walter for Production and Editing, Russ Nobles for the Intro and Outro songs, Mr. Wickboldt for being our advisor, and you for listening to our podcast and keeping up with the latest US news.

In Episode 36 of The Late Start Show, Charlie Martin and Jack Nelson sit down with Mr. Krystopher Perry Spanish teacher and Upper School Director at University School. From growing up in Venezuela and Alabama to leading US through a pandemic, Mr. Perry shares his journey through language, leadership, and the values that have defined his life.The conversation follows Mr. Perry’s story from his early days as an older brother and soccer player to his path through Amherst College, a brief stint in finance, and ultimately the calling that brought him into education. He opens up about the mentors who shaped him, his love of theater and travel, and his move to US in 2012 after a phone call that changed everything. Mr. Perry reflects on the importance of building community, leading with humility, and creating space for boys to grow into men of character.Credits to Theo Walter for Production and Editing, Russ Nobles for the Intro and Outro songs, Mr. Wickboldt for being our advisor, and you for listening to our podcast and keeping up with the latest US news.

In Episode 35 of The Late Start Show, Charlie Martin and Jack Nelson sit down with Fletcher Rollinson, world record holder, future Tufts student, and cancer survivor. Fletcher opens up about his extraordinary journey, from receiving a rare brain cancer diagnosis at age 11 to returning stronger than ever with a commitment to kindness, medicine, and making a difference.The conversation traces Fletcher’s story from the moment of his diagnosis to the powerful support of family, the routines that grounded him, and the hope that carried him through four rounds of chemotherapy. He reflects on the impact of a surprise FaceTime from YouTuber Mark Rober, announcing a Cleveland Browns draft pick, and leading a blood drive at University School. Fletcher shares what inspired him to pursue a future in medicine, his involvement in the Future Healthcare Professionals Club, and his plans to study biology on the pre-med track at Tufts. This heartfelt, funny, and deeply inspiring episode is a testament to Fletcher’s humility, humor, and strength, and a powerful reminder of the beauty of a second chance.Credits to Theo Walter for Production and Editing, Russ Nobles for the Intro and Outro songs, Mr. Wickboldt for being our advisor, and you for listening to our podcast and keeping up with the latest US news.

In Episode 34 of The Late Start Show, Charlie Martin and Jack Nelson sit down with Class of 2021 alum Toussaint Miller—musician, neuroscience major, and civic leader. Toussaint shares his journey from a bright kid in Cleveland to a soon-to-be Harvard graduate heading to Oxford for his master’s in the history of science and medicine. He opens up about his deep-rooted passions for music and medicine, and how they intersect in his life—from jazz band memories at US to studying music’s effect on Alzheimer’s patients.The conversation explores Toussaint’s community-driven mindset, including the mentorship program he helped lead and the Conscious Community Conversations initiative he launched during the social justice movement of 2020. He reflects on the role of family, his pivot to squash, his experiences as head prefect, and his love for French language and culture. Toussaint also discusses his advice for high schoolers feeling the pressure of college apps, the value of genuine curiosity, and the importance of building strong communities wherever you go. This is an inspiring, funny, and intresting episode that captures Toussaint’s unique blend of interests. Credits to Theo Walter for Production and Editing, Russ Nobles for the Intro and Outro songs, Mr. Wickboldt for being our advisor, and you for listening to our podcast and keeping up with the latest US news.

In Episode 33 of The Late Start Show, Charlie Martin and Jack Nelson sit down with the warm and welcoming face of University School, Ms. Fornaro. Known for her kindness, Mrs. Fornaro shares her journey from growing up in Mayfield Village to working in floral design, and eventually finding her calling in school offices across Northeast Ohio. She recounts memorable moments—from navigating chaotic COVID seating charts to being honored with a trophy at assembly—and reflects on the unexpected joys of working in an all-boys school.Mrs. Fornaro speaks to the heart of what makes US special: the students, the traditions, and the everyday interactions that build a sense of community. She talks about the energy she gets from the people around her, the moments of connection that brighten her day, and how being surrounded by thoughtful, driven students keeps her coming back with a smile. This episode is a tribute to the people who make schools feel like home, and a reminder of the quiet impact made by those who greet us at the door.Credits to Theo Walter for Production and Editing, Russ Nobles for the Intro and Outro songs, Mr. Wickboldt for being our advisor, and you for listening to our podcast and keeping up with the latest US news.

In Episode 32 of The Late Start Show, Charlie Martin and Jack Nelson sit down with beloved history teacher, basketball coach, and published scholar Dr. Tyler Yoder. From the basketball court to the humanities classroom, Dr. Yoder shares his extraordinary journey, from defending his undergraduate thesis under his father’s sharp questions to earning a PhD in ancient languages and translating cuneiform tablets discarded by pharaohs.Dr. Yoder reflects on what it means to teach with intention, the power of asking hard questions, and the challenges of balancing coaching, writing, and fatherhood. He opens up about his life as a student-athlete, the joy of coaching middle school basketball—whether going undefeated or grinding through tough seasons—and the lessons learned from both victory and defeat. This episode is a thoughtful and inspiring conversation on legacy, curiosity, and the enduring pursuit of knowledge.Credits to Theo Walter for Production and Editing, Russ Nobles for the Intro and Outro songs, Mr. Wickboldt for being our advisor, and you for listening to our podcast and keeping up with the latest US news.

In Episode 31 of The Late Start Show, Charlie Martin and Jack Nelson sit down with legendary math and law teacher, swim coach, and University School alum Mr. Perry—joined by his son, senior swim captain and theater tech standout Brad Perry. From coaching summer rec teams to winning ten state championships, Mr. Perry shares his remarkable path from civil litigation to inspiring generations of US students in the classroom and in the pool. Brad opens up about growing up at US, leading one of the school’s most successful swim teams, and balancing his passion for competitive swimming with a deep commitment to theater lighting design.The father-son duo reflects on what it means to carry a five-generation US legacy, the life lessons learned from grueling practices and packed natatoriums, and the joy of doing what you love—even if it means getting up before dawn. Whether it’s “walking in a Perry Wonderland” or soaking in the post-practice satisfaction, this episode is packed with stories, laughs, and heartfelt reflections on family, dedication, and legacy.Credits to Theo Walter for Production and Editing, Russ Nobles for the Intro and Outro songs, Mr. Wickboldt for being our advisor, and you for listening to our podcast and keeping up with the latest US news.

In Episode 30 of The Late Start Show, Charlie Martin and Jack Nelson sit down with Bill Oberndorf, US Class of 1971 alum, visionary investor, and longtime advocate for education reform. A distinguished philanthropist and co-founder of SPO Partners, Mr. Obendorf shares the remarkable journey that took him from the halls of US to the forefront of the value investing world.In this great conversation, Mr. Obendorf reflects on his early years at University School, the mentors and moments that shaped him, and then walks the listeners through his career in finance, including his lunch with Warren Buffett that set him on the path to value investing and the eventual creation of SPO Partners. Mr. Obendorf also discusses his enduring commitment to educational equity, tracing his role in launching the national school choice movement alongside John Walton. From founding the American Federation for Children to establishing transformational scholarship programs at US, he shares why he believes every child deserves access to high-quality education. From stories about investment strategy, family legacy, civic reform, and philanthropy this episode is a great one in both leadership and a testament to giving back.Credits to Theo Walter for Production and Editing, Russ Nobles for the Intro and Outro songs, Mr. Wickboldt for being our advisor, and you for listening to our podcast and keeping up with the latest US news.

In Episode 29 of The Late Start Show, Charlie Martin and Jack Nelson sit down with beloved science teacher, cross country coach, and outdoor education enthusiast Dr. Carlson—better known to students as Dr. C. From his adventurous upbringing across the U.S. as a Navy kid to earning a Ph.D. in botany and ecology, Dr. Carlson shares an inspiring journey built on curiosity, perseverance, and a passion for nature.Dr. Carlson opens up about his family, teaching, and coaching philosophy, and his dream of hiking all three major U.S. long-distance trails. Whether he's building an outdoor classroom, coaching cross country, or encouraging boys to “just figure it out,” his impact on the US community runs deep. This episode is packed with wisdom, laughs, and a reminder to get outside, break a sweat, and get stuff done.Credits to Theo Walter for Production and Editing, Russ Nobles for the Intro and Outro songs, Mr. Wickboldt for being our advisor, and you for listening to our podcast and keeping up with the latest US news.

In Episode 28 of The Late Start Show, Charlie Martin and Jack Nelson sit down with senior and football linebacker Gianni Fedeli. Gianni shares his journey at University School, from starting in first grade to playing four years of football and overcoming a season-ending ACL injury. He discusses the lessons of discipline, brotherhood, and resilience that football taught him, as well as his transition from wide receiver to linebacker.Beyond sports, Gianni opens up about his faith, his passion for psychology, and his decision to attend John Carroll University to study child and family studies. He reflects on the importance of mental health, the impact of supportive coaches and teachers, and his love for music—especially playing the guitar. Gianni also dives into the McKinley House experience, Founders Day victories, and what he’ll miss most about US. This was a great episode full of a bunch of memorable momentsCredits to Theo Walter for Production and Editing, Russ Nobles for the Intro and Outro songs, Mr. Wickboldt for being our advisor, and you for listening to our podcast and keeping up with the latest US news.

In Episode 27 of The Late Start Show, Charlie Martin and Jack Nelson sit down with Rob Markey, a University School alum, author, speaker, podcast host, and management consultant at Bain & Company. Mr. Markey reflects on his journey from US to Brown University to Harvard Business and into the world of consulting, where he helped develop the Net Promoter System, a widely used customer loyalty metric. He shares how his experiences at US—from impactful teachers to working on The Mabian—shaped his curiosity and career path, as well as the unexpected turns that led him to Bain & Company, where he has spent over 35 years.Beyond business, the conversation explores leadership, prioritization, and the importance of making a meaningful impact. Mr. Markey offers insights into balancing ambition with personal well-being, the power of strong relationships, and how businesses thrive by genuinely improving customers’ lives. Whether you're interested in business strategy, customer experience, or personal growth, this episode is filled with wisdom and inspiration.Credits to Theo Walter for Production and Editing, Russ Nobles for the Intro and Outro songs, Mr. Wickboldt for being our advisor, and you for listening to our podcast and keeping up with the latest US news.

In Episode 26 of The Late Start Show, Charlie Martin and Jack Nelson sit down with Hugh Kopittke, Goodwillie Prefect, Track Captain, and Emory University track commit. Hugh shares his journey from transferring to University School in high school to becoming a leader in academics, athletics, and student life. He discusses his transition to US, the challenges of stepping into leadership roles, and the rewarding aspects of being a prefect. Hugh also reflects on organizing school events, leading the track team, and breaking a school record in the 4x100 relay. Beyond sports and leadership, Hugh dives into his passion for theater, his experience in the school musical, and his ambitions in sports management. He opens up about his senior speech on substance abuse, his personal decision to abstain from alcohol, and how he hopes to inspire others. He also shares advice for incoming students, thoughts on the house system, and his hopes for the next class of prefects. This episode is packed with insights on resilience, personal growth, and making the most of high school—perfect for students and aspiring leaders alike.Credits to Theo Walter for Production and Editing, Russ Nobles for the Intro and Outro songs, Mr. Wickboldt for being our advisor, and you for listening to our podcast and keeping up with the latest US news.

In Episode 25 of The Late Start Show, Charlie Martin and Jack Nelson sit down with Lee Kravitz, former editorial director of Scholastic, former editor-in-chief of Parade Magazine, and author of Unfinished Business. A proud University School alumnus, Lee shares his journey from his early days at US to becoming a leader in the publishing world.In this insightful conversation, Lee reflects on his time at University School, the mentors who shaped him, and the challenges he faced while navigating the journalism industry. He discusses his experiences covering major global events, the evolving landscape of media in the digital age, and the responsibility of journalists to maintain integrity in an era of misinformation. Lee also delves into the importance of personal reflection, the power of storytelling, and his latest project—exploring the role of dreams in understanding oneself. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in writing, media, and personal growth.Credits to Theo Walter for Production and Editing, Russ Nobles for the Intro and Outro songs, Mr. Wickboldt for being our advisor, and you for listening to our podcast and keeping up with the latest US news.

In Episode 24 of The Late Start Show, Charlie Martin and Jack Nelson sit down with Charlie Horton, a former professional goalkeeper who played in the MLS, EFL, League One, and USL before transitioning into finance. A University School alum (Class of 2013), Charlie shares his journey from growing up in London to playing soccer at the highest level, passing up a UNC scholarship to go succeed in Europe, and navigating life after sports.Charlie reflects on the lessons he learned as an athlete, the impact of his time at US, and how his experiences shaped his career in investment banking and private equity. He also offers valuable advice for student-athletes looking to compete at the next level.Credits to Theo Walter for Production and Editing, Russ Nobles for the Intro and Outro songs, Mr. Wickboldt for being our advisor, and you for listening to our podcast and keeping up with the latest US news.

In Episode 23 of The Late Start Show, Charlie Martin and Jack Nelson sit down with Grant Brugger and Colton Gile, two eighth graders from University School’s Shaker Campus. They discuss their experiences as new students, their favorite moments from eighth grade, and their excitement and nerves about transitioning to the Upper School. From Founders Day to the house system, sports, and clubs, they share what makes the middle school experience special and how they’re preparing for the next chapter.Grant and Colton also reflect on their involvement in local government, explaining how their letters to the mayor of South Russell helped push forward a project to install sidewalks and bike lanes in their community. They discuss the impact of their teachers, the lessons they’ve learned, and their goals for high school and beyond. Whether you're a current student, an alum, or just curious about student life at US, this episode offers an insightful and inspiring look at the middle school experience.Credits to Theo Walter for Production and Editing, Russ Nobles for the Intro and Outro songs, Mr. Wickboldt for being our advisor, and you for listening to our podcast and keeping up with the latest US news.

In Episode 22 ofThe Late Start Show, Charlie Martin and Jack Nelson sit down with Mr. Greg Malkin, the legendary former business teacher at University School and the founder of the Young Entrepreneur Institute. Mr. Malkin shares his incredible journey from launching his first business in college to starting Technical Software at the dawn of the personal computer revolution, later growing it into a company with over 300 employees.In this engaging conversation, Mr. Malkin reflects on the lessons he learned as an entrepreneur, the values that shaped his approach to business, and how his passion for teaching led him to University School. He discusses the founding and evolution of the Young Entrepreneur Institute, the importance of experiential learning, and the entrepreneurial mindset that has driven both his career and his mentorship. Whether you're a student, a budding entrepreneur, or just someone interested in the power of innovation and business, this episode is packed with wisdom and inspiring insights.Credits to Theo Walter for Production and Editing, Russ Nobles for the Intro and Outro songs, Mr. Wickboldt for being our advisor, and you for listening to our podcast and keeping up with the latest US news.