The UNWavering Podcast

What does it look like to pursue Christ and your craft—especially when failure is part of the process? Join as we sit down with Ann Sorenson, Chair of the Department of Media Arts and Professor of Film, to talk about the power of being still, failing magnificently, and creating work that reflects God’s light.Professor Sorenson will talk through her journey from launching the film program to celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Five16 Film Festival, and how film at UNW has grown into a very impactful program. Learn more about the Five16 Film Festival: Click hereLearn more about the Department of Media Arts: Click here🎧 Subscribe and leave a rating wherever you listen.💬 Know an alum, faculty member, staff, or student of UNW doing amazing things out in the world? Let us know at [email protected]. 

What happens when innovation is rooted in faith and driven by purpose? Dr. Siu-Yue Tam, Associate Professor of Engineering and Director of the Northwestern Center for Innovation & Research (NCIR), shares what it means to rely on God in and for everything—trusting that He is more than enough as we build, create, and lead.From the growth of School of Engineering and advancements in biomedical technology, this conversation highlights the heart behind purposeful innovation. We talk about training students to become servant leaders in their professions, the vital role professors play in driving innovation, and the value of working with real companies on real projects. Learn more about School of Engineering at UNW: Click hereLearn more about the Northwestern Center of Innovation & Research (NCIR): Click here🎧 Subscribe and leave a rating wherever you listen.💬 Know an alum, faculty member, staff, or student of UNW doing amazing things out in the world? Let us know at [email protected]. 

Chris Asmus, UNW’s Campus Pastor, joins us this week to talk about Jesus, his church ministry, and the gift of getting to pour into students every week at chapel. Chris invites you to behold the real Jesus. He isn’t distant or theoretical, but a Savior who meets us in the middle of our everyday struggles. Hear as Chris shares how Jesus takes our misery and transforms it into ministry, reminding us that Christ died for the very real battles we face right now. Rooted in 2 Corinthians 3:18, this conversation centers on becoming by beholding, pointing to God’s constant presence—not just during a quiet moment in the morning, but every moment of every day. Learn more about Vertical Church: Click hereHear Chris speak at UNW’s chapel: Click here 🎧 Subscribe and leave a rating wherever you listen.💬 Know an alum, faculty member, staff, or student of UNW doing amazing things out in the world? Let us know at [email protected].

During spring break, a group of Northwestern students partnered with OneChild and traveled to Nicaragua on a missions trip to serve kids. God worked in ways they did not expect.In this episode, hear from Elliana Norton and Joel Amancharla (current UNW students) as they share memories and takeaways from this life-changing trip.The lessons they learned are powerful reminders for all of us: simple obedience, intentional presence, and a willingness to show up can create space for God to work in meaningful ways.🎧 Subscribe and leave a rating wherever you listen.💬 Know an alum, faculty member, staff, or student of UNW doing amazing things out in the world? Let us know at [email protected]. 

Since the 1990s, the Northwestern community has gathered on-campus in the spring for a dedicated Day of Prayer & Service—a long‑standing tradition when students, staff & faculty pause their regular schedules and spend the day praying, serving, and reconnecting with God and one another.This year, we invite alumni and families to join in this meaningful community tradition—on campus, online, or from wherever you live around the world. Whether you’ve been part of this day in the past or you’re joining for the very first time, we welcome you to participate in the way that fits your location and rhythm of life.Full Details: https://www.unwsp.edu/events/day-of-prayer-and-service/

Heidi Lee Anderson (’10) joins us to share her journey. She is an author, speaker, and cancer survivor. Hear as Heidi talks about how God met her in every season and what shaped the heart behind her new book, “All In, All Yours.”Her new book is a 100-day devotional that takes you through the book of Joshua. Drawing from the Israelites’ journey to the Promised Land, this devotional invites you to live all in, trust God’s promises, and not let the giants of fear or circumstance take over the landscape of your life.  Learn more about Heidi’s new book, “All In, All Yours”: Click hereLearn more about Heidi’s ministry: Click here🎧 Subscribe and leave a rating wherever you listen.💬 Know an alum, faculty member, staff, or student of UNW doing amazing things out in the world? Let us know at [email protected]. 

This week, we’re joined by Jason Sharp, Senior VP for Media at Northwestern Media, as he shares his personal journey in radio and faith—and how God has shaped his calling in Christian broadcasting. Jason gives us a look inside Northwestern Media’s network of radio stations, which reach millions of listeners across multiple states with Christ-centered content that is broadcasted live and local. He also introduces an exciting new project, The Christ Podcast. This is a unique and immersive audio experience created to make the words of Jesus feel personal and present—like He’s speaking directly to you. Listen to a special sneak peek of The Christ Podcast in this episode and hear why this project will resonate so deeply in the world today. Learn more about The Christ Podcast: Click hereLearn more about Northwestern Media: Click here🎧 Subscribe and leave a rating wherever you listen.💬 Know an alum, faculty member, staff, or student of UNW doing amazing things out in the world? Let us know at [email protected]. 

Patrick Fitzgerald is UNW’s Head Coach for Men’s and Women’s Cross Country and Track and Field teams. In this episode, he shares his vision for a God-honoring athletic program that both challenges and motivates athletes to be their personal best. Through providing intentional time to share devotionals and connect, Patrick helps students grow in their faith and equip them for life beyond UNW. When the season ends, his hope is that his athletes are inspired and prepared to use their gifts effectively for the Kingdom and ultimately discipleship.Learn more about Cross Country and Track and Field at UNW: Click here🎧 Subscribe and leave a rating wherever you listen.💬 Know an alum, faculty member, staff, or student of UNW doing amazing things out in the world? Let us know at [email protected]. 

Get to know UNW’s new Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Dalene Fisher. At the center of her vision is the belief that academic success starts with discipleship.Dr. Fisher oversees the university’s academic mission, ensuring that everything from policies to classroom practices reflects UNW’s commitment to Christ-centered education. She believes professors are called not only to teach but to model faithful living, creating a culture where discipleship and mentorship shape every student’s experience.Her vision for UNW is that students get to experience what it looks like to be a faithful, vibrant follower of Christ—and that they would take that into their careers and callings after graduation.🎧 Subscribe and leave a rating wherever you listen.💬 Know an alum, faculty member, staff, or student of UNW doing amazing things out in the world? Let us know at [email protected]. 

Never in his wildest dreams did Wayne Pederson imagine he would one day be involved with an international radio broadcasting ministry. In this episode, you'll hear Wayne's remarkable life story—from hosting a make-believe radio show on a tractor as a child, to becoming a beloved 98.5 KTIS personality, to stepping into industry leadership, and eventually helping to bring the Gospel to the airwaves around the world.Wayne’s journey shows how God uses our unique gifts in unexpected ways. He began his radio career at 98.5 KTIS in 1967, first hired as a weekend personality while still a student at UNW. Over the years, he became Station Manager and helped the station strengthen both its AM and FM signals and expand its reach. Wayne later served as VP of Radio/Broadcasting at Northwestern Media before stepping into national leaderships roles with National Religious Broadcasters (NRB) and later as president of Reach Beyond, a global media ministry. He has made a great impact in the world of radio and has faithfully shared the Gospel to many people over the years. Hear how God has guided his life and ministry as Wayne consistently responded with, “Yes, Lord” through every season and opportunity.🎧 Subscribe and leave a rating wherever you listen.💬 Know an alum, faculty member, staff, or student of UNW doing amazing things out in the world? Let us know at [email protected]. 

At the heart of UNW Tennis is a passion to serve—both on and off the court. In this episode, Matt Swigart, Head Coach of the Men’s and Women’s Tennis teams at Northwestern, shares how he leads the team with a mission that’s deeper than just winning matches. For him, tennis is a tool for discipleship and equipping athletes to grow as future husbands, wives, parents, and followers of Christ.He also explains how the true heart of Northwestern’s tennis program isn’t measured in records or trophies, but in spiritual maturity, meaningful relationships, and the memorable moments God creates along the way.Learn more about Northwestern’s tennis program: Click here.🎧 Subscribe and leave a rating wherever you listen.💬 Know an alum, faculty member, staff, or student of UNW doing amazing things out in the world? Let us know at [email protected]. 

Cell phones are shaping the way we connect—but are they negatively effecting the depth of our closest relationships? Professor Laura Watkins, Instructor of Communication at Northwestern, joins to talk about how our phone habits influence everything from mealtime conversations, emotional quality of our relationships, and how we parent. Her recent study found that 70% of people believe that phones at the table make conversations less meaningful, ultimately weakening our relationships. Hear as she shares practical steps anyone can take to connect and communicate well in a world full of digital distractions. Laura Watkins also writes about the effects of cell phone use in the classroom in her article, “The Death of Silence in the Classroom: How Demanding a No-Screen Classroom Creates Space for Interaction (and Learning!).”  Read her article here.🎧 Subscribe and leave a rating wherever you listen. 💬 Know an alum, faculty member, staff, or student of UNW doing amazing things out in the world? Let us know at [email protected].

Mission drives momentum! Here at Northwestern, everything we do begins with our mission (it's our economic engine!). If we do our mission really well, we can expect some positive outcomes.Northwestern’s president, Dr. Corbin Hoornbeek, sits down with us for an exciting conversation about what God is doing at Northwestern and where He is leading.  Our conversation covers the following topics:Great news about Phase One of the Amplify the Gospel campaign!Sneak peak into Phase Two initiatives.The announcement of the new Stoltz School of Business. Dan and Robin Stoltz have modeled faithful leadership in their community, and now they’re investing in the next generation of servant leaders at Northwestern.Through it all, staying anchored on our mission makes a real difference. Strong mission builds great momentum to make a lasting impact for God's Kingdom. 🎧 Subscribe and leave a rating wherever you listen.💬 Know an alum, faculty member, staff, or student of UNW doing amazing things out in the world? Let us know at [email protected].

Our guest is Peter Reid, a 1984 graduate of Northwestern and the current General Director of Torchbearers International, an international missions fellowship focused on proclaiming the transforming presence of Jesus Christ through biblical teaching and practical training. Along with his wife, Gaby, Peter has spent over 40 years serving in discipleship and Bible education, including leadership as the Bible school principal and then director of Bodenseehof, the Torchbearer center located in southern Germany. His story is marked by a deep dependence on Christ, an international teaching ministry, and a passion to equip men and women to serve faithfully in the Church around the world, regardless of their vocation.🎧 Subscribe and leave a rating wherever you listen. 💬 Know an alum, faculty member, staff, or student of UNW doing amazing things out in the world? Let us know at [email protected].

We are wrapping up Season #1 with a joy-filled conversation with Mardy Rodriguez, the Custodial Services Manager at University of Northwestern – St. Paul. Mardy lives every day with joy and a passion for reaching more people for Jesus.He uses his job as an avenue to speak life and truth into the next generation. He gets to have meaningful conversations with students and staff about the Bible and faith. One piece of wisdom he shares is that we shouldn’t worry about the unknowns. He encourages seeking the Kingdom of God first and to not worry about the rest.🎧 Subscribe and leave a rating wherever you listen.💬 Know an alum, faculty member, staff, or student of UNW doing amazing things out in the world? Let us know at [email protected]. 

Kaycee Greisinger is the Podcast Producer of The UNWavering Podcast. With a passion for using media to share Jesus’ message, she has loved producing a podcast that highlights so many unique stories. God has brought people to UNW for countless reasons, and it’s inspiring to hear their journeys.Then, join Monte, Cassie, and Kaycee for an in-depth conversation reflecting on the highlights and memorable moments from the first season of The UNWavering Podcast.Stay tuned - season two begins in February 2026!🎧 Subscribe and leave a rating wherever you listen.💬 Know an alum, faculty member, staff, or student of UNW doing amazing things out in the world? Let us know at [email protected]. 

Hannah Hanson is the Manager of Campus Store & Mail Center at University of Northwestern – St. Paul. She loves to serve the UNW community by providing everything from academic textbooks to apparel that helps students show their Eagle pride. In this episode, Hannah shares the positive changes she’s been making to the Campus Store, including new merchandise and unique items students love. She talks about why she enjoys her role—especially the opportunity to work with and mentor student workers. Shop the Campus Store!🎧 Subscribe and leave a rating wherever you listen. 💬 Know an alum, faculty member, staff, or student of UNW doing amazing things out in the world? Let us know at [email protected]. 

Dr. Santhiny Rajamohan is the Dean/Chief Nurse Administrator and Professor at University of Northwestern – St. Paul. She has a heart to serve and care for others.Hear as she dives into what it really means to rely on God when life feels overwhelming. She shares how choosing gratitude over bitterness transformed her perspective, and how the R.E.S.T. model helps her find rest in everything she does.R – Relationship (with God, self, and others)E – Exercise (body, brain, mind, and spirit)S – Self-compassionT – Transformative thinking (trusting God in the timing of transformation)School of Nursing at UNW🎧 Subscribe and leave a rating wherever you listen.💬 Know an alum, faculty member, staff, or student of UNW doing amazing things out in the world? Let us know at [email protected]. 

Dr. Doug Huffman is the Dean, School of Theology & Ministry and Special Advisor to the President at University of Northwestern – St. Paul. He has a deep passion to invest his experience and wisdom into the next generation. He shares that his return to UNW was motivated by a sense that he still had “more in his bucket” to give. His return has been warmly received by alumni and the UNW community. Through his leadership, the School of Theology & Ministry offers great undergraduate and graduate programs that are centered on having an UNWavering commitment to the Word and world. School of Theology & Ministry🎧 Subscribe and leave a rating wherever you listen. 💬 Know an alum, faculty member, staff, or student of UNW doing amazing things out in the world? Let us know at [email protected].

Susie Larson is a Senior Producer & Talk Radio Host at Faith Radio, and has a heart for Jesus. Susie is a bestselling author, national speaker, and host of the popular radio show Susie Larson Live. In this episode, Susie shares her story and the importance of practicing gratitude in every season—especially the hard ones. She reminds us that just because something is difficult doesn’t mean God isn’t in it, and that taking time to recognize His goodness changes how we walk through life’s valleys.Susie also talks about the heart behind her show: a no-fluff, faith-filled space where listeners are encouraged, challenged, and pointed back to God’s presence in every moment.Learn more about her ministry work: Susie Larson MinistriesSusie Larson LiveWaking Up to the Goodness of GodPrepare Him Room🎧 Subscribe and leave a rating wherever you listen. 💬 Know an alum, faculty member, staff, or student of UNW doing amazing things out in the world? Let us know at [email protected]. 

Dr. Ryan Griffith is the Dean and Associate Professor of the Classical Christian Honors College (CCHC) at University of Northwestern – St. Paul. He has a passion for Northwestern, the Bible, and for equipping the next generation. Hear as he explains the CCHC and how the program is shaping students. Learn more about the CCHC at  https://www.unwsp.edu/academics/colleges/classical-christian-honors-college/🎧 Subscribe and leave a rating wherever you listen. 💬 Know an alum, faculty member, staff, or student of UNW doing amazing things out in the world? Let us know at [email protected]. 

Tim Grosz is the Head Men’s Basketball Coach and Associate Director of Athletics at University of Northwestern – St. Paul. He creates an inviting team atmosphere that puts faith and connection at the center. His players say that winning isn’t the best part, it’s the relationships they build with each other.Coach Grosz says every season is special, whether they are champions or not, because God is working through the program and changing lives.🎧 Subscribe and leave a rating wherever you listen. 💬 Know an alum, faculty member, staff, or student of UNW doing amazing things out in the world? Let us know at [email protected]. 

Tim Sawyer, also known as T-Saw, is the Professor of Music and Director of Choral Activities at University of Northwestern - St. Paul. He leads and conducts from the heart. Making a meaningful impact in students’ lives and faith journeys. Through music, he is reaching people for Christ in powerful ways. Hear him share how he’s had the privilege of leading, teaching, and mentoring students in UNW’s music program. As he and his students travel the world performing, people are hearing God’s beautiful voice—many for the first time—through music. 🎧 Subscribe and leave a rating wherever you listen. 💬 Know an alum, faculty member, staff, or student of UNW doing amazing things out in the world? Let us know at [email protected]. 

Kevin Thompson retired from Custodial Services at University of Northwestern – St. Paul after 40 years of making real, life-changing impact.  What began as a one-year plan turned into 40 years at UNW, and he’s loved every second. Him and his team have done amazing work to make UNW a beautiful campus—inside and out. Hear his story as he shares that meaningful connections and intentional conversations are a critical part of living out an UNWavering faith. 🎧 Subscribe and leave a rating wherever you listen. 💬 Know an alum, faculty member, staff, or student of UNW doing amazing things out in the world? Let us know at [email protected]. 

Dr. Corbin Hoornbeek is the President of University of Northwestern – St. Paul and Northwestern Media. Hear as he explains UNW’s new campaign, Amplify the Gospel. This campaign was publicly launched during Homecoming 2025, and the community is very excited. This episode dives deep into the three initiatives of phase one, including the Northwestern Media Expansion, the Classical Christian Honors College, and the Biomedical Technology initiative.  Learn more about the campign at amplify.unwsp.edu🎧 Subscribe and leave a rating wherever you listen.  💬 Know an alum, faculty member, staff, or student of UNW doing amazing things out in the world? Let us know at [email protected].

Patti Wiens ‘59 is the Distinguished Alumna of the Year at University of Northwestern – St. Paul! She received this award by making an impact in the field of education, as well as in her community, church, and world. Patti is an author, educator, wife, and mother who has shared the Gospel and love of God with so many people. After overcoming a painful childhood, she shares how God worked through her in creating New Life Academy. From the beginning, parents loved how education was integrated with faith. God remains faithful as this school continues to grow.Patti is now retired and is still helping to change lives through Bible study, prayer, and living out her faith every day.🎧 Subscribe and leave a rating wherever you listen. 💬 Know an alum, faculty member, staff, or student of UNW doing amazing things out in the world? Let us know at [email protected]. 

Jennifer Hunter is the Director and Professor of Theatre at University of Northwestern – St. Paul. She shares that her role is more than just a job. From sharing her favorite plays to her passion for theatre, you’ll hear how she is equipping the next generation.She says that theatre impacts lives when actors share their God-given gifts with an audience. People’s hearts are moved and lives transformed.🎧 Subscribe and leave a rating wherever you listen. 💬 Know an alum, faculty member, staff, or student of UNW doing amazing things out in the world? Let us know at [email protected]. 

BONUS EPISODE!Your hosts, Monte and Cassie, are talking about all things Homecoming at University of Northwestern – St. Paul!Hear as they explain everything from the 3rd Annual Purple Donut Run and Campaign Kickoff to the Block Party and Showcase of the Arts. This is your behind-the-scenes look at what goes into creating and planning Homecoming—plus a few tips and tricks along the way!🎧 Subscribe and leave a rating wherever you listen. 💬 Know an alum, faculty member, staff, or student of UNW doing amazing things out in the world? Let us know at [email protected]. 

Bret Hyder is the Vice President of Student Experience at University of Northwestern – St. Paul. He has a gift of connecting with people and creating community.Hear as he explains how Student Experience is making changes to ensure UNW is an amazing experience for students. He loves to laugh, connect, and make a difference in students’ lives. 🎧 Subscribe and leave a rating wherever you listen. 💬 Know an alum, faculty member, staff, or student of UNW doing amazing things out in the world? Let us know at [email protected]. 

Matt Moore ‘99 is the Head Football Coach at University of Northwestern – St. Paul. Over the past 30 years, he has led a program that puts Christ at the center. Hear as he explains how Northwestern’s football team is blessed with godly men and amazing students. As much as he cares about winning, he’s even more passionate to equip the next generation to be great leaders as future husbands, fathers, professionals, and friends. 🎧 Subscribe and leave a rating wherever you listen. 💬 Know an alum, faculty member, staff, or student of UNW doing amazing things out in the world? Let us know at [email protected]. 

Dr. Juan Carlos Téllez is the Associate Chair of Christian Ministries and Assistant Professor of Intercultural Studies at University of Northwestern – St. Paul. He shares that intercultural interactions are all around, and we need to share Jesus with people who are not like us.  He has a gift to connect with others. He loves to ask questions and is genuinely interested in how others see the world, so he makes it a mission to understand them and their perspective.  🎧 Subscribe and leave a rating wherever you listen.    💬 Know an alum, faculty member, staff, or student of UNW doing amazing things out in the world? Let us know at [email protected].  

Beth Wilmeth ‘02 is the Head Volleyball Coach and Assistant Athletic Director at University of Northwestern – St. Paul. Her purpose is to fuse faith principles into sports and make an eternal impact.  Hear as she explains her core missions as a coach and how her players are living it out both on and off the court. Her goal is to cultivate players’ skills, faith, and lives.  🎧 Subscribe and leave a rating wherever you listen.  💬 Know an alum, faculty member, staff, or student of UNW doing amazing things out in the world? Let us know at [email protected].  

Dr. Mark Muska ‘76 is an alum and Professor Emeritus of Biblical & Theological Studies at University of Northwestern – St. Paul.He has a heart for teaching and sharing the Gospel so that others can understand Scripture more deeply and live out a Christ-centered worldview. Hear as he explains what it means to follow Jesus with an UNWavering faith. 🎧 Subscribe and leave a rating wherever you listen. 💬 Know an alum, faculty member, staff, or student of UNW doing amazing things out in the world? Let us know at [email protected]. 

Dr. Corbin Hoornbeek is the President of University of Northwestern – St. Paul and Northwestern Media. Hear him explain the meaning and message behind the new Northwestern tagline, We Are UNWavering. He has a passion to lead and bring up the next generation through Northwestern. He says it all starts with having an UNWavering love for God’s Word and an UNWavering love for God’s world.  🎧 Subscribe and leave a rating wherever you listen.  💬 Know an alum, faculty member, staff, or student of UNW doing amazing things out in the world? Let us know at [email protected].  

Welcome to The UNWavering Podcast!Co-hosted by Monte Abeler (’12) and Cassie Plantage (’07) of the UNW Alumni Office, The UNWavering Podcast brings you fun, thoughtful conversations with the people who shape University of Northwestern – St. Paul. No matter how you're connected to Northwestern—alum, student, parent, staff, faculty, or friend—this podcast is created to keep you connected to the heart of the UNW community. Join us as we highlight the people, the purpose, and the pulse of Northwestern.