Rock Talk

Senior year goes fast, and it gets real the moment you start saying your goodbyes. Steve sits down with two Rockhurst seniors, Draden Torline and David Pryor, for an honest conversation about what they’ll remember most, what they’re chasing next, and what they wish more people understood about Rockhurst High School in Kansas City.We get into the practical side of college decisions too. David shares why the University of Tennessee Knoxville felt like the right move, from financial support to career-aligned opportunities like internships and exposure to venture capital and private equity. Draden talks through choosing Hartford Community College as a strategic step to keep lacrosse moving forward while balancing cost and the reality that Midwest athletes can be under-recruited compared to players out east. If you’re a student sorting through offers or a parent trying to understand the “why” behind a decision, this is the kind of clarity you want to hear.The conversation keeps coming back to the same Rockhurst themes: brotherhood, initiative, and growth outside your comfort zone. We talk school spirit, championships, Tide trips, and what it feels like to walk into a new building and quickly find your people. David also explains the finance club and the ambitious idea of a student-led endowment, a reminder that leadership can start in high school when students are trusted with real responsibility.If you care about Jesuit education, college prep, student leadership, and what it looks like to launch well from high school into college, press play. Subscribe to Rock Talk, share this with a future Rockhurst family, and leave a review with the one lesson you wish you’d learned before senior year.

Graduation gets close, and suddenly every hallway, game, and late-night laugh feels louder. We sat down with two Rockhurst seniors who are stepping into their next chapters, and they told the truth about what they’ll actually miss and what they’ll carry forward. One is heading to Southwest Baptist to play college basketball, ready to compete and contribute. The other is bound for the University of Georgia with a plan to blend business with film and television production, chasing opportunity where the industry is growing.Along the way, we dig into what makes a Jesuit education at Rockhurst High School feel different in real life: the brotherhood, the expectations, and the way service and faith formation aren’t side notes. The guys talk about their senior service project at Operation Breakthrough, what it’s like to help in classrooms all day, and why being present can matter more than having the perfect words.We also unpack Kairos, the retreat experience so many students call life-changing, plus the pure fun of Rockhurst culture, from Yell Leading to massive rivalry crowds that bring alumni back into the building. The biggest takeaway is simple: decide who you want to be, put yourself in the places that grow that person, and then do what’s required when it gets hard.If you know a student finishing the year strong or one who needs a reason to lean in, share this conversation with them. Subscribe to Rock Talk, leave a review, and tell us: what was the moment that made your high school years feel unforgettable?

Brotherhood only matters when it shows up in real life, and that’s exactly where our conversation with the Koetting brothers goes. Jeb (’25), now playing football at Colgate, Tom (’28), a current sophomore, and Whit (’30), a soon-to-be Hawklet, open up about the moments that shaped them: underdog wins in freezing stadiums, late-night texts answered without hesitation, and service projects that made generosity feel natural. Their stories trace how a Jesuit, all-boys school builds confidence, conscience, and community—not as a slogan, but as a daily habit.We dig into what “men for others” looks like on the ground. From Mission Week to the Harvest Food Drive, the brothers explain how giving spreads when one person steps up. Kairos retreats and phone-free service trips strip away the noise so friendships can get real. On the field, elite coaching and tough schedules teach grit, humility, and leadership; in the classroom, teachers push beyond memorization toward independent thinking and real dialogue. That mix prepares students for college life and beyond, whether they’re leading a huddle, presenting in seminar, or navigating a new campus.If you’re a prospective family or a curious alum, you’ll hear why Rockhurst’s opportunities are different: try SGA and football, join choir and still make the team, build robots and run track. The culture celebrates range without ego. Alumni ties and a proud network create pathways because the bond actually means something—see the logo, start a conversation, get a hand. And if you’re wondering about an all-boys environment, we talk honestly about focus, partner school collaborations, and the faculty who model respect in every hallway interaction.Listen, share with a future Hawklet, and tell us your favorite moment of brotherhood. If this resonated, subscribe, leave a review, and pass it to a family making a big decision—we’d love to hear their questions.

A feast becomes a lifeline when a community decides tradition should serve people, not just nostalgia. We sit down with student leaders Nick Pizzachino and Charlie Bondi to explore how Rockhurst High School’s St. Joseph’s Table blends Sicilian heritage, faith, and hands-on service to support the Wyandotte County Pregnancy Center. From ornate breads and cookies to the sawdust that honors a carpenter saint, every detail points beyond celebration toward solidarity—proceeds, donated goods, and leftover food are all directed to mothers and families who need it most.We open the doors wide: dates, drop-off times, and blessing details make it easy for families, alumni, and neighbors to participate. Along the way, we widen the lens on student life at Rockhurst. Choir stands tall as the school’s largest co-curricular, sending students to sing in Venice, Florence, and Rome while parents follow a shadow tour. Football Friday memories, all-school Masses that transform the gym into sacred space, and the steady rhythm of service hours reveal a campus where brotherhood in action is not a slogan but a daily practice.Nick shares his next step toward business at Mizzou, while Charlie looks ahead to senior year, grades, and the college search with guidance from counseling resources and peer mentors. Their shared answer to why families choose Rockhurst—community and faith—threads through every story. Whether you’re drawn by Catholic tradition, student leadership, or service learning, you’ll hear how a simple table can anchor a season of generosity and formation.Subscribe to Rock Talk, share this episode with a friend who loves meaningful traditions, and leave a review to tell us your favorite community service memory.

Think you know what “brotherhood” means? Spend an hour with Cash and Cruz Lundowski and feel it in real time. Two athletes, two paths, one last-minute pivot to Rockhurst that reshaped who they are and what they expect from themselves. We talk about the quiet moments that build character—the early alarms, the film sessions, the awkward hellos that become friendships—and the loud ones too, like standing shoulder to shoulder under Friday night lights and seeing your brother at safety.We open with their origin story: kindergarten flag football to second grade tackle, then a surprise decision just weeks before freshman year to enroll at Rockhurst. Cash shares how those first six months were tough—leaving friends, arriving late to summer workouts, keeping walls up—until the school’s structure and culture did what they’re built to do: call you higher. Cruz contrasts looser environments with the steady accountability he found here, where showing up is a habit, respect is expected, and support is real. Together they chart how academics, faith, and athletics form one rhythm that matures you grade by grade.As we look ahead, the brothers light up about next season: returning talent, locker room energy, and the small traditions that make a team feel like a family. We also dive into recruiting—junior days at Lindenwood and USD, interest from top programs—and the larger lesson the host presses home: chase the opportunity in front of you, compete with humility, and let the jersey teach you what lasts after the last whistle. When asked why a family should choose Rockhurst, Cash points to a living alumni network that actually picks up the phone, while Cruz names the simple truth parents notice first: it makes you a better person.If you care about high school culture, leadership, and what truly prepares young men for college and life, this conversation delivers. Hit follow, share with a friend who’s weighing school choices, and leave a review with your biggest takeaway—we love hearing how these stories land with you.

Lights down, crowd roaring, seniors rushing the freshmen section—that spark of brotherhood sets the stage for a conversation that travels from the track to the broadcast booth to the heart of what makes Rockhurst different. We sit with the Burns brothers—senior Ivan, sophomore Felix, and freshman Baron—as they share how a Jesuit college prep turns curiosity into opportunity and classmates into lifelong friends.Ivan pulls back the curtain on student media: how an intro class led to newspaper, then to launching student-led sports broadcasts with coaches and mentors backing the vision. He explains why moving Prep News from print to digital unlocked richer storytelling with video interviews and faster coverage, and how recruiting younger students keeps the booth buzzing. Felix opens up about the grind and joy of sprinting—the 100, the 200, and relays—and how a once-hated race became his best. He connects that growth to the Human Dignity Club and a simple truth: love for the work beats chasing outcomes. Baron, eyeing the 400 and the jumps, talks about stepping in, meeting people, and embracing the brotherhood from day one.We also explore the path from Visitation to Rockhurst, the power of showing up for pep rallies, Mass, and games, and the practical steps to find your lane—start the club, join the team, grab the mic. Then the lens shifts to life after graduation. Our host shares how alumni ties work in real life, why a call to a fellow Hawklet so often gets a yes, and how teachers and coaches paired high expectations with deep care during hard times. That mix—AMDG in action, shared language, and a network that stays warm—turns four fast years into a foundation that lasts.If you’re a prospective family, a current student, or an alum looking for a reminder of why this place matters, you’ll hear it here: resources that meet initiative, mentorship that invites leadership, and a brotherhood that doesn’t fade. Listen, share with a friend, and tell us what moment lit your spark. Subscribe for more stories, leave a review to help others find us, and join the conversation—what passion are you ready to pursue next?

A live audience. Two student interns. A week where service, spirit, and storytelling collide. We hand the mic to Jack and Michael as they launch “Sup Boys,” our student-led podcast that captures life at Rockhurst from the inside: candid, energetic, and deeply rooted in Jesuit values.Mission Week sets the stage. We break down how each class rallies behind a specific partner—from St. Peter Claver Parish in Belize to Red Cloud Indian School in South Dakota, a Sudanese education initiative, and the senior project in San Andrés, Guatemala. These aren’t faceless fundraisers; they’re relationships guided by faculty connections that turn generosity into encounter. You’ll hear the crowd’s favorite traditions, from dodgeball to the STA/Sion volleyball game, and how small moments can fuel big impact.Jack and Michael share the real shift that happens when service becomes personal. Their time at L’Arche Heartland—celebrating a birthday dressed as Power Rangers—reveals how presence, joy, and humility can reframe what “helping” means. We pivot to winter sports with a milestone: basketball’s 19–0 start, the rivalry game at Municipal Auditorium, and the grit that defines Rockhurst athletics. Plus, a look ahead to a captains’ roundtable, expanded social presence on Instagram, and open invitations for student-suggested topics and dream guests.Decision Day brings it home. The guys explain why they chose Rockhurst: hallways that feel like home, friendships that cross groups, and a culture that pushes you to grow through service, faith, and brotherhood. If you’re a prospective family or a future Hawklet, this conversation offers a true-to-life picture of what makes our community unique. Listen, subscribe, and share with someone who needs to hear what Mission Week—and student leadership—looks like when it comes alive. If you enjoyed this one, follow the show, leave a review, and tell us: which topic should “Sup Boys” tackle next?

A projected gap became a real fight, and everyone in the stands felt it. Jack Messick and Declan Griggs walk us through Rockhurst’s state meet story—how dominant diving from the favorites put them down early, how steady points from the board kept it close, and how a surge in the pool made second place feel like a statement. We talk about the 500 free at 5:08, the pressure of 11-dive rounds and cuts, and the mindset it takes to stay calm when the scoreboard says “chase.”Away from the water, both guys double down on craft. Declan moves into tennis with a winter plan that focuses on the fundamentals most players overlook: indoor bubble sessions, ball-machine volume, and footwork reps that make strokes possible under pressure. Jack heads into a larger role in Newsies, laying out a rehearsal cadence that looks like a training block—line runs before break, choreography foundations in January, and full dress rehearsals leading into late February. If you’ve ever wondered how theater builds team chemistry and stamina the way sports do, this comparison is your proof.Finals prep gets real and practical. They share the tools that actually lower stress: peer-built study guides, matching study to the test format, short consistent review sessions, and simple organization systems that convert plans into action. Declan keeps an iPad planner by day and handwritten checklists by night for that satisfying cross-off. Jack relies on clean folders and a heavy-duty binder for content-dense courses, prioritizing by tomorrow’s schedule so he always knows the next step. The conversation ends on family, holiday traditions, and quiet gratitude for leadership—parents, teachers, coaches—who make high standards feel like support, not pressure.If you enjoy this mix of sports, stage, and study with a Jesuit heartbeat, follow the show, share it with a friend, and leave a review. Your feedback helps more families find Rock Talk and keeps these student stories in the spotlight.

A senior’s year can feel like a sprint, but Jeremy Smith shows how to turn it into a purposeful stride. We meet a student who mixes AV production, revived music culture, and serious computer science chops—and somehow finds time to serve Kansas City by narrowing the digital divide. His story moves from the soundboard to the code editor to the service site, stitching together creativity, discipline, and community impact in a way that feels unmistakably Rockhurst.First, we dive into the heartbeat of campus culture: Album Club. Jeremy explains how weekly listening sessions become thoughtful critiques and how student-led showcases like Battle of the Bands and Rocking and Stockings give bands a stage and peers a reason to gather. The club is building a media presence, interviewing performers, and partnering with student news so more voices get heard. It’s a small example with big energy—reviving long-form listening and making room for new talent in Kansas City’s music scene.Then we pivot to computer science, where curiosity meets real-world application. Jeremy traces his path from early Python experiments to hackathons at KU and a visit to General Mills, where code drives supply chains and manufacturing at scale. With coursework spanning cybersecurity, hardware, and software, plus certifications that matter to employers, Rockhurst’s CS track mirrors industry reality while keeping collaboration front and center. College is next, with a focus on research, building, and finding teammates who want to ship meaningful products.Access and mission stay in view throughout. Jeremy credits The Hurtado Scholars Program for opening doors, offering Saturday Academy support, and connecting him with mentors from middle school through high school. That continuum now reaches into college completion and first jobs via compañeros and Rock Connect, reinforcing the belief that talent should never be limited by zipcode or circumstance. For senior service, he’s heading to PCs for People, a national nonprofit refurbishing donated tech and expanding connectivity for families—an elegant blend of sustainability, equity, and hands-on CS.Looking for a story that balances passion with purpose, tradition with innovation, and music with mission-driven tech? Press play, then share it with someone who believes schools can grow both skill and character. If this resonates, subscribe, leave a review, and tell us: which school tradition would you bring back next?

A single early loss lit the fuse. From that moment, Jack McGovern—a Rockhurst sophomore balancing student government, chamber choir, and a love for photography—built a season that leapt from local promise to national proof: a Missouri soil record, a 12-second state championship, fourth at Nike Cross Regionals, and 10th at Nike Cross Nationals. We dig into the hinge points, from the confidence breakthrough at Gans Creek to the race-day strategy that turned pressure into poise and joy.We also widen the lens beyond the course. Jack breaks down how student government really works and what it means to serve as sophomore class president when “leadership” looks like planning events, making posters, and being the voice of your grade. He shares why auditioning into chamber choir put him back at the start of a new learning curve, and how being the least experienced in the room sharpened humility, listening, and growth. Add a budding photography business and you see the full picture: a student-athlete who treats excellence as a habit, not a headline.Culture ties it together. With deep gratitude for Coach Dierks and a six-coach program that treats training like a team symphony, Jack explains how Rockhurst’s expectations—use your gifts, pursue greatness, support each other—turn effort into results. You’ll hear about the gym full of classmates cheering a livestream, the parents and alumni who keep the brotherhood strong, and the finals-week mindset that mirrors racing: trust the prep, take it step by step, and stay calm under stress. It’s a story of faith, discipline, and community that invites every listener to raise their own bar.If this conversation gave you a spark, follow the show, share it with a friend who needs a push, and leave a quick review to help others find Rock Talk. What goal are you running toward next?

The mics are hot and the pace is real: We sit down with our SGA president and senior class president to unpack a semester that never touched the brakes. From a raucous district championship turnout to a weekly video series that became appointment viewing, they share how school spirit turned into a campus movement—and why that energy matters when you’re trying to lead, learn, and lift others.We get into the record-breaking Harvest Food Drive that pushed past 50,000 pounds for local food banks, the friendly rivalry that fueled it, and the teamwork that made it happen. The conversation moves from pep rallies to production as the guys detail how the morning announcement videos evolved from simple updates to a creative engine, culminating in a new student-led podcast and internships with our marketing team. It’s a candid look at student agency, media skills, and the power of inviting more voices to the table.Then we pivot to formation. Senior service takes center stage with concrete plans at L’Arche Heartland and Operation Breakthrough, shaped by years of listening to returning classmates describe life-changing placements. We also talk finals without the fluff: how to study smarter, why the Student Success Center’s peer tutoring works, and where AI can help diagnose weak spots without replacing human guidance. The holidays are around the corner, and the gratitude is palpable—teachers who show up, classmates who buy in, and a community that says yes when it counts.If you care about student leadership, Jesuit education, and real-world learning in Kansas City, you’ll find practical ideas and honest reflection here. Subscribe, share with a friend who needs a finals boost, and leave a quick review to help more families discover Rock Talk.

Gratitude changes how a community breathes. On Thanksgiving, Steve Redmond, our Director of Admissions and Marketing, steps behind the mic to offer a heartfelt thank-you to the people who make Rockhurst High School’s mission real—faculty, staff, parents, and alumni. This special message trades the usual format for a reflective pause: a look back on the year, a recognition of unseen effort, and a call to carry the brotherhood forward with presence and love.We spotlight the daily faithfulness of teachers and staff who show up when it’s hard, and the commitment of parents who trust us with their sons and shoulder the rhythms of high school life. Steve also turns to our alumni—celebrating who they have become and inviting them to reconnect with the next wave of Hawklets. Whether it’s dropping by campus, mentoring a student, or simply checking in, those touchpoints strengthen the Jesuit values that shape men for others.There’s also space for the complexity of the holidays. Joy and bustle can sit beside grief and exhaustion, and Steve offers a word of comfort for anyone carrying a heavy season. The invitation is simple: hug your people, say the loving thing out loud, and notice the grace that’s already present. If someone in your life could use encouragement, share this message and help it find its way to a table that needs it.If you find value in Rock Talk, subscribe, leave a review, and pass this episode along to a fellow Hawk or a friend who could use a lift. Your support helps the brotherhood grow stronger, one thank-you at a time.

What if the best measure of a school isn’t just where graduates go, but who they become? We sit down with President David Laughlin to unpack how Rockhurst High School forms young men who work hard, love well, and aim their gifts toward something bigger than themselves. Across four decades in Catholic education, David maps the Jesuit DNA that powers our culture: prayer that frames the day, retreats that reset priorities, service that tempers ambition, and a rigorous college prep program that treats study habits as spiritual habits.You’ll hear how excellence at Rockhurst avoids the comparison game. We talk about confident humility—reaching for high standards not to outdo others, but to honor the Giver of the gift. From STEM labs and speech team to choir and athletics, faculty set clear expectations and coach students into them. The rumor that “it’s a lot of work” becomes a rhythm when you look left and right and see everyone leaning in. That shared effort builds joy and resilience, making early mornings, office hours, and rehearsals feel like a path, not a punishment.We also travel with David through alumni stories that stretch from Kansas City to San Diego, New Orleans, and Houston. The thread is striking: graduates stay connected, lead with purpose, and carry Rockhurst habits into families, careers, and communities. As the metro’s only all-boys Jesuit high school, Rockhurst holds a distinctive place—shaped by history, energized by parents and Jesuits, and committed to forming men for others. If you’re weighing where your son can be known, challenged, and guided, this conversation offers a clear window into a school where faith, scholarship, brotherhood, and service come to life.If this resonates, follow the show, share it with a friend, and leave a review to help more families discover Rockhurst.

A school’s true test isn’t just grades or trophies—it’s whether the people it forms keep coming back to lift the next class. That’s the heartbeat of our conversation with executive leader and alum parent, Diane Marty, who shares how Rockhurst strengthens access, care, and real-world learning while holding tight to its Jesuit mission. From meeting 100% of verified financial need to rebuilding a counseling model for today’s challenges, we walk through a strategic plan designed to support, surround, connect, and engage every student.You’ll hear the human side: alumni across the country who say Rockhurst changed—or even saved—their lives; a young grad pledging five years of giving because a few teachers wouldn’t let him settle; and the power of brotherhood that endures well into careers and cities far from campus. We dig into practical steps that make mission visible—transportation solutions for families, faculty retention so the best teachers stay in the building, and a gold-standard playbook for athletics and activities that reflects our values on every field and stage.We also unpack the future-facing work: AI literacy supported by alumni-funded professional development, internships that count for credit and pay, and networks like Rock Connect that turn a handshake into a summer job. Diane’s personal “5809” moment in the robotics lab—an unexpected sign that she was home—captures what keeps people tied to this place: formation that lasts, community that shows up, and a culture that adapts without losing its soul.If you care about education that shapes character and competence, or you’re ready to mentor, hire, or simply reconnect, this is your invitation. Subscribe, share with a fellow Hawk, and leave a review telling us the one moment that shaped you—and how you’ll pay it forward.

A small choice can define a lifetime: Jim Kopp and John Oades, two friends from the Class of ’67 sit down with us to share how Rockhurst formed their faith, sharpened their character, and gave them a brotherhood that still shows up—at service sites, retreats, tailgates, and alumni events. They talk about arriving as kids, becoming men for others, and why they now guide freshmen through Days for Others with the same joy their mentors once showed them.We dig into access and inclusion with fresh honesty. Transportation remains a real barrier for some families, and simple solutions—carpools, neighbor networks,—can unlock a student’s path. From there, the conversation widens: participation matters, because small gifts and volunteer hours help secure corporate and foundation matches. We unpack how alumni presence transforms culture in the building. When students see seasoned grads grabbing shovels and leading by example, service becomes normal, not performative.Career opportunity comes to life through Rock Connect, the Jesuit alumni network, and a growing speaker series that turns goodwill into internships, mentorship, and practical skills. First‑generation college students get tailored guidance on networking, internships, and campus engagement, with alumni stepping in as guides who translate experience into clear next steps. We also float a powerful idea: retired alums running hands‑on seminars that teach the real-world lessons you rarely get from a textbook.At the heart of it all is a simple claim: academics open doors, but community keeps them open. Faith animates the bonds, and the bonds make the school more than a place—it’s a network you can lean on in any city, at any age. If you’ve drifted, start small. Read the alumni newsletter, show up for spaghetti dinner, say hello at a game, or lend an hour at a service site. Then decide how you want to give: time, talent, or treasure. If this conversation moved you, follow the show, share it with a classmate, and leave a review—then tell us how you’ll reconnect this year.

What if a few hours of your time could unlock a scholarship, spark a student’s purpose, and strengthen a community for years? We invited two Parents Club leaders, Lyndy Volker and Julie Walker Browne, to share how Rockhurst’s culture of service comes alive through everyday actions—greeting at the hospitality desk, baking for faculty, making auction calls, and pitching in on setup or cleanup. Their stories reveal a powerful truth: when parents show up, boys notice. They learn generosity by watching it, then practice it through dress-down fundraisers, service trips, and other giving opportunities in the community.We dig into the Spectacular auction and why it matters: it helps fuel Rockhurst’s ability to meet 100% of demonstrated financial need. That commitment turns small volunteer jobs into big outcomes, keeping doors open for families across Kansas City and ensuring talented students can thrive. You’ll hear practical ways to get involved right now—short shifts, evening slots, and behind-the-scenes roles that fit real life. We also highlight opportunities to share professional skills through the career speaker series, marketing projects, and targeted support for counseling, activities, and athletics.This conversation is ultimately about growth and belonging. Parents describe the pride of watching their sons carry the school’s values into college and beyond, and the comfort of a network that lasts long after graduation. If you’ve wondered whether your time, talent, or treasure would truly matter at Rockhurst, consider this your invitation. Subscribe for more stories from our Jesuit community, share this episode with a fellow parent, and leave a review to help others find Rock Talk. Your next yes could change a student’s path.

Doors open wider when a community decides they should—and that belief is on full display at Rockhurst. We sit down with Director of Engagement Moira Healy and Director of Community Engagement (and alumnus) Martin Radosevic Jr. to explore how parents, students, alumni, and staff turn Jesuit ideals into everyday action. From team Masses and days of reflection to mother–son brunches and the father–son bags tournament, we trace the moments that make a big school feel small, personal, and grounded in purpose.Martin shares how his new role supports coaches and moderators with mission-based programming so every team and club experiences more than competition. He spotlights a student-led win: the golf team, driven by senior Connor Vickers, raised over $17,000 for Pete’s Garden by turning their skills into local impact. Moira opens the curtain on the Parents Club and the Spectacular Auction, showing why parent involvement is more than logistics—it’s the model students copy during Mission Week, service days, and holiday food drives. We also talk access: Rockhurst meets 100% of demonstrated financial need, and the Hurtado Scholars program pairs scholarships with years of academic prep and community, lifting boys into rigorous high school work and beyond. One powerful example: a graduate now thriving at Georgetown through the Jack Kent Cooke scholarship.Along the way, we share practical ways to plug in—from Hispanic Heritage Month activities that fund matched scholarships, to alumni events and Rock Giving Day on November 11. If you’ve wondered whether a faith-centered, college prep education can also feel like a home you return to for decades, listen to the stories of parents who still volunteer years after graduation and alumni who reconnect like no time has passed. That’s the Rockhurst difference: formation through relationships, service, and a community that keeps showing up.If this resonates, follow the show, share this episode with a friend, and leave a review so more families can find their path to Life at the Rock.

A humming activity period sets the scene as we sit down with three alumni who chose to come back to Rockhurst High School and teach theology. What unfolds is a grounded, energizing look at how faith formation actually works in a Jesuit college prep: mentors who shaped their vocation, a curriculum that moves from Scripture to social justice and vocation, and a community that treats retreats, service, athletics, arts, and even BBQ metaphors as real places to find God in all things.We unpack why formation is more than memorizing answers—it’s learning to ask better questions and training the mind and heart to hold them with patience, charity, and intellectual honesty. We welcome Mr. Jon Feder '10, Mr. Ryan McAnany '12 and Mr. Luke McLellan '00 who explain “identity before action,” the idea that you can’t know what to do until you know who you are, and how cruciform love anchors Rockhurst’s signature values of brotherhood, leadership, and service. They walk through the four-year sequence: freshman Scripture, sophomore tradition and sacraments, junior philosophy and ethics with tracks in world religions or faith-and-reason apologetics, and a senior year focused on social justice and vocation. Along the way, we talk about collaboration between theology, campus ministry, retreats, and service—and how the school evolves its methods without losing its mission.There’s heart here too: stories about teachers who kept relationships alive long after graduation, a duct-taped cell phone, Kairos road trips, and the Z-Man sandwich that somehow sparks real ethics debates. Whether you’re Catholic, another faith, or simply curious about how a Jesuit education forms young people to think deeply and love well, this conversation shows how Rockhurst turns big questions into a way of life.If this resonates, follow the show, share it with a friend who cares about education and character, and leave a quick review with your biggest question about faith and formation. We read them all and might feature yours next time.

Ever wonder what makes a Jesuit education different? Rich Sullivan, who has devoted 27 years to Rockhurst High School as a teacher, coach, and now Director of Ignatian Identity, reveals the heart of what makes "The Rock" unique."Our goal isn't just to get these kids into Harvard. Our goal is to get these kids into heaven," Sullivan shares, quoting former president Father Baum. This powerful philosophy guides everything at Rockhurst, where forming "men for others" takes precedence over any single achievement.The conversation explores how Rockhurst cultivates faith formation for both students and adults through retreats, spiritual exercises, and community building. Sullivan describes monthly faculty meetings, silent retreats, pilgrimages, and workshops that help teachers understand and embody Jesuit values before passing them on. "We do so many Jesuit things that we're not consciously aware of," he explains, highlighting how his role helps uncover these distinctive practices.Perhaps most moving is Sullivan's reflection on the Rockhurst community itself – the dedicated mentors who shaped his own understanding of Jesuit education through their example. This spirit extends to athletics, where coaches teach students that "you're loved whether you win or lose," embodying Ignatius's teachings on detachment and finding God in all things.For parents considering Rockhurst, Sullivan offers this perspective: "There are a lot of seeds planted here. Some grow quickly, some take time to germinate, but I can guarantee your son will be exposed to the questions that will give him meaning in life."Join us for this insightful conversation about faith formation at Rockhurst and discover why, after nearly three decades, Rich Sullivan remains passionate about the transformative power of Jesuit education.

Alan Ratermann's journey from Alumni Service Corps volunteer to Director of Ignatian Service at Rockhurst High School embodies the school's mission of forming men for others. In this revealing conversation, Alan takes us behind the scenes of a comprehensive service program that transforms young men through meaningful encounters with community needs.At Rockhurst, service isn't a checkbox requirement but a foundational experience woven throughout all four years. Freshmen participate in quarterly service days working alongside faculty, sophomores and juniors engage with nonprofits of their choosing, and seniors culminate with a three-week immersive service project. Alan shares how these experiences deliberately interrupt students' self-focus, inviting them to recognize Christ in others and respond with compassion.The conversation explores distinctive aspects of Rockhurst's service immersion trips where students surrender their phones, live simply in community, and discover joy in human connection. Perhaps most moving is Alan's description of the St. Joseph of Arimathea Society, where students serve as pallbearers for those who pass away without family – a profound ministry honoring human dignity even in death.What emerges is a portrait of service as transformative education. When students stand before classmates reflecting on their experiences, something remarkable happens. They articulate not just what they gave, but how profoundly they were changed. With Rockhurst students donating over 40,000 service hours annually, the impact extends far beyond graduation, creating lifelong connections to community organizations and embedding service into their identities.Ready to see how service can transform your son's education? Visit rockhursths.edu to learn more about our Jesuit approach to forming men of competence, conscience, and compassion.

What does it take to transform awkward freshmen into confident, faith-filled leaders? At Rockhurst High School, the journey begins with the Freshman Retreat—but this experience impacts far more than just the new students.Senior co-chairs Joe Pitzl and Andrew Hayes reveal how their own freshman retreat experiences inspired them to lead the program years later. "Some of the people I met in my small group are people I still talk with daily," shares Joe, highlighting the lasting bonds formed during this pivotal experience. This year's theme, "Anchored in Rock," emphasizes finding stability in faith while discovering your unique place within the Rockhurst community.Matt Nickson, Director of Pastoral Ministry, explains how this retreat represents just the beginning of a thoughtfully designed four-year formation journey. The freshman year focuses on community, sophomore year on personal reflection, junior year introduces the transformative Kairos retreat, and senior year offers specialized experiences including leadership formation. What makes this approach uniquely Ignatian is how seamlessly faith integrates throughout every aspect of school life—not compartmentalized, but woven into academics, athletics, and activities.Perhaps most remarkable is how this model creates natural opportunities for student leadership. With approximately 150 upperclassmen serving as retreat leaders, the program simultaneously forms freshmen while developing leadership skills in juniors and seniors. As Nickson reflects on witnessing this transformation both as a faculty member and as a parent of two Rockhurst students: "The ways they have already matured and taken accountability in their own lives... I feel as though Rockhurst High School is 100% in line with that desire that there is goodness happening here."In a world hungry for good men of character and faith, Rockhurst's comprehensive formation process creates an environment where young men discover their gifts and learn to use them in service to others. Listen now to understand how this powerful approach to student formation shapes not just four years of high school, but a lifetime of purpose.

What makes a truly good leader in today's world? Is it enough to be powerful, or must power be guided by something greater? In this profound conversation with Father Stephen Kramer, Rockhurst High School's new principal, we explore the heart of Jesuit education and its focus on forming "men for others."Father Kramer brings a unique perspective shaped by his experiences teaching at multiple Jesuit institutions across the country—from St. Louis to Denver, New Orleans, and even Kenya. His journey of 20 years as a Jesuit reveals the consistent spirit animating Jesuit schools despite their differences: a dedication to recognizing each person's inherent dignity as God's beloved child.The conversation delves into St. Ignatius's personal transformation from a glory-seeking soldier to a man who discovered his true identity and purpose. Through this lens, Father Kramer articulates how Rockhurst helps young men understand who they truly are beyond achievements, appearances, or abilities. "You are already God's beloved child," he emphasizes, regardless of performance or circumstance—a realization that liberates students from seeking validation through external measures.Perhaps most compelling is Father Kramer's distinction between creating merely powerful men versus good powerful men. While Jesuit schools excel at developing students with persuasive skills and critical thinking, their true mission is ensuring this power serves others. "There's nothing worse than a powerful bad person," he notes, highlighting the school's responsibility to form ethical leaders.Through practices like the daily Examen prayer and personal birthday blessings, Father Kramer demonstrates his commitment to helping students recognize God's presence in their everyday experiences. His ultimate goal? Forming young men who find meaning that makes life's difficulties worthwhile—men who, when they look in the mirror years later, respect the person they've become.Listen now to discover how Rockhurst's approach to brotherhood and spiritual formation creates graduates prepared not just for success, but for lives of purpose, service, and authentic human connection.

Have you ever wondered what truly sets exceptional students apart in today's competitive world? It's not just grades or test scores—it's the ability to articulate who they are and what they stand for.In this eye-opening episode of Rock Talk, we dive deep into Rockhurst High School's revolutionary Camino Ignaciano Project with Director of Experiential Learning Tyler Baker. This innovative program helps students create professional e-portfolios that showcase their growth through the five pillars of Jesuit education: being committed to doing justice, religious, open to growth, intellectually competent, and loving.The results speak for themselves. We share the story of Davis Long, whose digital portfolio caught Columbia University's attention among 60,000 applicants, leading to a personal phone call from admissions. But the Camino Project offers more than just college application advantages—it teaches students digital citizenship, professional branding, and the language to articulate their personal development."You can get an excellent education anywhere," notes Beth Van Dyke from the admissions team, "but you can't get the formation experience our boys get at other places." This formation includes the confidence to try new things in an all-male environment where vulnerability is encouraged, not criticized. From the unexpected popularity of choir to the growing e-sports program that's already yielded scholarship offers, Rockhurst nurtures well-rounded young men ready to make their mark.Whether you're a parent exploring educational options, an educator interested in innovative teaching methods, or simply curious about how Jesuit education is evolving for the digital age, this conversation will transform how you think about preparing students for future success. Subscribe now and join our community of listeners discovering what makes Rockhurst unique!

Step inside the thoughtful, intentional process of welcoming freshmen to Rockhurst High School through this revealing conversation with Chris Bosco, Assistant Principal for Student Life. Discover how this Jesuit college preparatory school has carefully crafted a freshman transition experience that begins months before the first day of school and continues throughout the critical first year.What makes the Rockhurst welcome unique? It starts with special events like signing days and summer socials where incoming students begin building relationships with upperclassmen who become mentors and guides. The formal orientation day includes a meaningful welcome Mass where parents join their sons as they symbolically walk up the McGee steps into their new community. After being enthusiastically greeted by upperclassmen, freshmen are guided through their schedules and introduced to key resources that will support their journey.The heart of the freshman experience is the comprehensive CURA program that combines small group counseling, freshman seminar, and the Camino project. This intentional approach helps students navigate the transition to high school while introducing them to the five ideals that will shape their four-year journey: being open to growth, loving, religious, committed to justice, and intellectually competent.Mr. Bosco reveals what he calls "the secret sauce" of Rockhurst—the vibrant club life that offers approximately 50 different organizations where students can pursue existing passions or discover new ones. From Culinary Club to Robotics, these student-led activities create spaces where young men develop leadership skills, form deep friendships, and find their place in the community.Ready to discover how brotherhood is built from day one? Listen now to understand why Rockhurst graduates become such well-spoken, thoughtful young men ready to make their mark on the world.

In this episode, we welcome Student Government President Brendan Ortbals and Senior Class President Jack McShane for a conversation about the unique brotherhood that defines Rockhurst High School. They share insights on the traditions, values, and connections that shape the student body, and reflect on how the Freshman Experience sets the tone for four years of growth, camaraderie, and leadership.

Discover the heart and soul of Rockhurst High School through our brand-new podcast, Rock Talk! In this premiere episode, meet your hosts Beth Van Dyke and Steve Redmond from the Admissions and Marketing team as they share their personal connections to "The Rock" and set the stage for what promises to be an enlightening journey into Jesuit education and excellence.Steve, a proud Rockhurst alumnus from the Class of 2004, brings his perspective as both a former student and current Director of Admissions and Marketing. Beth shares her remarkable family legacy spanning four generations of Hawklets—from her grandfather who attended in the 1940s to her nephew who represents the future Class of 2030. Their combined experiences offer a unique window into why families continue choosing Rockhurst for generations.The conversation delves into what truly distinguishes Rockhurst from other educational institutions. Beth highlights the transformative power of service immersion trips and the lifelong brotherhood that extends decades beyond graduation, while Steve reflects on the profound impact of teachers and mentors who prioritize developing young men of character over simply teaching subjects. "Accountability and love go hand in hand," Steve notes, capturing the essence of the Rockhurst approach.Looking ahead, Beth and Steve reveal exciting plans to enhance how they share the Rockhurst story through expanded digital content, student-led initiatives, and authentic storytelling across multiple platforms. They recognize that the most powerful testament to Rockhurst's impact comes from the students themselves—young men who are genuinely excited to be part of this community.Whether you're a prospective family exploring educational options, a current community member, or an alumnus wanting to stay connected, Rock Talk invites you to experience the brotherhood, excellence, and transformative mission that continues to define Rockhurst High School. Subscribe now and join us next week when we welcome senior student government leaders to discuss what brotherhood means to today's Hawklets!