Bears Den Pawcast

What does it really take to bring a musical theatre production to life?In this episode of The Bears Den Pawcast, hosts Gwen and Corin sit down with Mr. Overholt, Mrs. Vaillancourt, and Alexa LeRoy to explore the journey behind our school’s musical theatre program, from the first rehearsal to the final curtain call.Together, they dive into the creative process of building a show, the complexity of the music and choreography, and the behind-the-scenes work that audiences don’t always see. Through both teacher and student perspectives, this conversation highlights the growth in confidence, skill, and mindset that happens along the way.From stepping into rehearsals on day one, to performing on stage, to reflecting on what lasts beyond the final performance, this episode captures the full experience of being part of something bigger than yourself.Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at the passion, dedication, and community that bring musical theatre to life.

In this episode of The Bears Den Pawcast, we sit down with members of our Boys’ Bears Hockey Team — Jackson (Team Captain), Burt (Goalie), and Zeek (Defenseman) — to talk about their undefeated season and the growth of the SJSH Hockey Academy.The conversation begins with some fun rapid-fire questions, but quickly shifts into something deeper: the culture behind Bears hockey. The team shares what their motto TNT, “Takes No Talent”, truly means, how being process-driven shapes their practices and games, and what standards they hold themselves to both on and off the ice.They reflect on:-The impact of their coaches and staff-The growth of the hockey academy over the years-What makes this year’s team special-Their post-secondary plans and what comes next-The advice they would give to younger students who hope to wear a Bears jersey one dayThis episode is about more than hockey. It’s about leadership, accountability, trust, and the kind of character it takes to build something lasting.When they look back years from now, what will they remember most?Tune in and find out.Season 3, Episode 4 — streaming now on Spotify and Apple Podcast as well as, On YouTube

In episode three of The Bears Den Pawcast, hosts Patience Chadbourn and Gwen Suave sit down with two student leaders who are helping shape our school community from the inside out, Sogi Ijioma, SAC Diversity Representative, and Bronte McLeod, Indigenous Student Trustee.The conversation kicks off with some fun rapid-fire questions, but quickly dives into meaningful reflections on identity, leadership, and advocacy. Sogi shares how her immigration journey influences the way she speaks up for others, while Bronte reflects on what it means to represent Indigenous students and lead with responsibility and purpose.Together, they talk about why student involvement matters, how stepping into leadership roles has changed them, and what they would say to students who care deeply but aren’t sure if they’re ready to find their voice yet.This episode is about belonging, courage, and the power of showing up, even when it feels uncomfortable.Tune in now and hear how our cubs continue to grow into bears.

In this heartfelt and highly requested episode, Corin and Patience sit down with one of the most beloved figures at SJSH, Lenny, the chef behind Lenny’s Cantina and an alumnus who truly bleeds green and gold.Lenny shares the incredible full-circle story of how his path began right here at SJSH, from being pulled out of class as a student to help cook in the cafeteria, to returning years later to run the very kitchen where it all started. Along the way, he opens up about: How cooking shifted from something he could do to something he loved His days as an athlete in hockey and football His time in the school band as a singer and drummerWhat SJSH means to him as an alumnus, chef, and parentHis advice for current students and what he hopes his legacy will bePlus, we finish the episode with a brand-new segment: Guess That Food, where Lenny tries to identify Cantina classics using only his sense of smell.This episode is warm, nostalgic, and full of the spirit that makes our school community so special. Whether you’re a staff member, student, or alumnus, you’ll love this conversation with the man who keeps SJSH's tummies very happy.Listen now and join us as we continue to highlight the journey of how cubs become bears.

Season 3 of The Bears Den Pawcast kicks off today with a special guest, one of SJSH’s very own, Mr. Lucas Tignanelli!From the court to the classroom, the band room to esports, Mr. Tignanelli shares what drives his passion for teaching, music, coaching, and the heart of our school community. You’ll hear stories about his journey as both a student and teacher, the lessons that shaped him, and the values that keep him motivated.And of course, we end the episode with a little fun, a special “Guess That Song” challenge created just for him by Mr. Francesco and Mr. David Tignanelli!You can listen here or on Spotify and Apple Podcast or you can watch on YouTube.This is one you don’t want to miss! It’s full of energy, heart, and all things Bear Pride.

In our second-last episode of the season, our hosts Justin and Tristan sit down with teacher and coach Mr. Ricky for an honest and powerful conversation about resiliency, discipline, and staying grounded through life’s toughest moments.This episode stands out—real, full of heart, and grounded in open, meaningful conversation. From personal stories to sports and mindset, it’s a reminder that we all face challenges… and we’re stronger than we think.Whether you need a little motivation, want to hear how others have pushed through hard times, or just want to feel seen—this episode is for you.Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcast, or watch the episode on YouTube.

The newest episode of The Bears Den Pawcast is here—and it’s one that will warm your heart and open your mind.In this episode, we sit down with Cedric Torres and Emma Casagrande, two Grade 12 students from the International Club, who share their experiences of coming to Canada from the Philippines and Italy.From their first impressions of SJSH to their favourite Canadian memories (and yes—even their thoughts on poutine), Cedric and Emma remind us of the power of belonging and the beauty of cultural exchange.Tune in today and hear how these students have made their mark—and how SJSH has left a mark on them.Listen now on Spotify or Apple Podcast!

Our newest episode on The Bears Den Pawcast is here, and it’s all about making a difference! In this episode, we sit down with Keeva Berghmer and Olivia Mancari, two student leaders from the Bears Who Care, to discuss the impact of their club, their mission to support both our school and the wider community, and the importance of student-led initiatives in making a difference.They’ll share what it’s like to lead a club dedicated to kindness, the challenges they’ve faced, and their hopes for the future of the Bears Who Care. Plus, we’ve got some fun rapid-fire questions you won’t want to miss!So, Bears—tune in, get inspired, and see how you can be part of the movement to create change! Listen now on Spotify or Apple Podcast, or watch on YouTube! 

The Bears Den Pawcast is back with an all-new episode, and this one is show-stopping! Fresh off three sold-out performances of Mamma Mia, we’re sitting down with Maeve Elsey, David Dunn, and Mercy Wilson—three of the incredible stars from this year’s Bears Musical Theatre production.From behind-the-scenes stories to unforgettable moments on stage, hear what it’s like to bring a musical to life and why the Bears Musical Theatre program is such a special part of SJSH.Listen now on Spotify and Apple Podcast and watch the episode on YouTube to experience the magic of the stage like never before! 

The Bears Den Pawcast is back with a brand-new episode, where we highlight the journey of how cubs become bears.In this heartfelt episode, we sit down with one of our most beloved community members, Ms. Zappala. Not only is Ms. Zappala a proud alumni of SJSH, but she has also dedicated decades of her life to shaping and inspiring our school community. From teaching English, Religion, and Music to serving as our school Chaplain, she’s been a guiding light for so many.Join us as Ms. Zappala shares her journey of balancing motherhood and teaching, the lessons she’s learned from her son, and the wisdom she hopes to pass on to our students. You’ll hear inspiring stories, reflections, and even a few laughs—including her go-to comfort food and the song that always lifts her spirits.Don’t miss this episode filled with heart, connection, and life lessons! Tune in to The Bears Den Pawcast on Spotify, Apple Podcast or YouTube! Discover how Ms. Zappala continues to make a difference in our school community.

Get ready for an inspiring new episode of The Bears Den Pawcast—where we highlight the journey of how cubs become bears!Our first episode of season 2, we are diving into the incredible story of our very own senior football coach, Mr. Quinlan. From playing and coaching football for the McMaster Marauders to becoming a dedicated teacher and coach at SJSH, Mr. Quinlan shares what it takes to build the discipline, work ethic, and self-motivation to compete at such a high level. You’ll hear how he’s shaped his players' lives, built community through sports, and how fatherhood has given him new lessons to share.Plus, don’t miss the rapid-fire questions—like his favourite pump-up song and the skill he’d learn in an instant!You can also listen to the podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcast and YouTube.

Tory Fisher and the Shkaabewis program at SJSH put together three episodes that are each fifteen minutes discussing various topics highlighting Indigenous People's month and their learning through their land-based course. In honour of their hard work and dedication to creating their own podcast episodes, we are including them on the Bear's Den Pawcast to highlight different student voices here at SJSH. 

The sixth, and final episode of Season 1 of the Bears Den Pawcast is here, Bears. In this episode, our hosts interview, Alina Bobowski and Ethan Elsey, our SAC President and Vice President (respectively), following these cubs journey to how they became bears.Some of the most prevalent themes are: commitment and teamwork, passion, and the importance of being involved in extracurriculars. -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Episode SixAlina Bobowski - GuestEthan Elsey - GuestAnnelisa Martel  - HostElla Oschefski - HostChloe Hodge - Video ProducerNicole Dopko - DirectorCarter Fletcher - CrewChloe Hodge - EditorGabriella Maitland - Social Media ManagerAnnelisa Martel - CrewElla Oschefski - Music ProducerTristan Smith - CrewChris Piekarski - Executive ProducerNicole Dopko - Executive ProducerTory Fisher - Executive ProducerRoll Bears!

The fifth episode of our Pawcast is here Bears!!! In this episode, our hosts interview Justin Marietti and Chloe Popp, our SAC athletic reps, following both their athletic journeys and contributions to SJSH.Some of the most prevalent themes are: leadership, the importance of having a positive mentality, and getting involved.-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Episode FourJustin Marietti - GuestChloe Popp- GuestGabriella Maitland - HostTristan Smith - HostChloe Hodge - Video ProducerNicole Dopko - DirectorCarter Fletcher - CrewChloe Hodge - EditorGabriella Maitland - Social Media ManagerAnnelisa Martel - CrewElla Oschefski - Music ProducerTristan Smith - CrewChris Piekarski - Executive ProducerNicole Dopko - Executive ProducerTory Fisher - Executive Producer

R.I.S.E - Resource|Intervention|Safe Space|Education.  The fourth episode of our Pawcast is here Bears!!! With May being coined as “Mental Health Awareness Month” we wanted to take a moment to highlight SJSH’s very own Mental Health committee. As such, we have chosen to interview the Chair and Vice-chair of R.I.S.E.  Some of the most prevalent themes are: positivity, the importance of self-care, and mental health.-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Episode FourElla Oschefski - GuestGabriella Maitland- GuestAnnelisa Martel - HostTristan Smith - HostChloe Hodge - Video ProducerNicole Dopko - DirectorCarter Fletcher - CrewChloe Hodge - EditorGabriella Maitland - Social Media ManagerAnnelisa Martel - CrewElla Oschefski - Music ProducerTristan Smith - CrewChris Piekarski - Executive ProducerNicole Dopko - Executive ProducerTory Fisher - Executive Producer

The third episode of our Pawcast is here Bears!!! In this episode, our new hosts have a talk about passion with one of the most monumental past cubs at SJSH currently.Some of the most prevalent themes are: humble beginnings, the importance of pursuing your dreams, and the importance of being involved in extracurriculars. -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Episode ThreeBrian Overholt - GuestAnnelisa Martel  - HostElla Oschefski - HostChloe Hodge - Video ProducerNicole Dopko - DirectorCarter Fletcher - CrewChloe Hodge - EditorEmma Lacelle - Social Media CreatorGabriella Maitland - Social Media ManagerAnnelisa Martel - CrewElla Oschefski - Music ProducerTristan Smith - CrewChris Piekarski - Executive ProducerNicole Dopko - Executive ProducerTory Fisher - Executive Producer

The second episode of our Pawcast is here Bears!!! In  this episode, we interviewed one of SJSH's very own cubs, McCrea Cazabon, following the journey of what lead him to follow his passions.Some of the most prevalent themes are: persistence, determination, and of course, passion. -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Episode TwoMcCrea Cazabon - GuestGabriella Maitland - HostTristan Smith - HostChloe Hodge - Video ProducerNicole Dopko - DirectorCarter Fletcher - CrewChloe Hodge - EditorEmma Lacelle - Social Media CreatorGabriella Maitland - Social Media ManagerAnnelisa Martel - CrewElla Oschefski - Music ProducerTristan Smith - CrewChris Piekarski - Executive ProducerNicole Dopko - Executive ProducerTory Fisher - Executive ProducerNicholas Scarfone - Executive Producer

The debut episode of SJSH's very own Pawcast is finally here!!! In this episode we interview our principal, Ms. Pride, following the journey of how this past cub has become the bear that she is today.Some of the most prevalent themes are: leadership, community, and words of wisdom.-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Episode OneMicheline Pride - GuestGabriella Maitland - HostTristan Smith - HostChloe Hodge - Video ProducerNicole Dopko - DirectorCarter Fletcher - CrewChloe Hodge - EditorEmma Lacelle - Social Media CreatorGabriella Maitland - Social Media ManagerAnnelisa Martel - CrewElla Oschefski - Music ProducerTristan Smith - CrewChris Piekarski - Executive ProducerNicole Dopko - Executive ProducerTory Fisher - Executive ProducerNicholas Scarfone - Executive Producer