Saints Speak: The LCA Podcast

Episode 15 of Saints Speak brings us outdoors just in time for Earth Day! We're joined by Chief Planning and Design Officer for Cleveland Metroparks, LCA Parent and Board Member, Sean McDermott, who takes us behind the scenes of one of Northeast Ohio's greatest treasures. From the vision that shapes the park system to exciting projects on the horizon, we explore how the Metroparks continue to grow, adapt, and serve the community. Along the way, we talk about practical ways to experience the parks, hidden gems you might not know about, and why access to green space matters now more than ever. Plus, we kick things off with our usual look at what's been happening and what's coming up in the life of LCA as the end of the school year quickly approaches. Whether you're a regular on the trails or just looking for a reason to get outside, this episode is a perfect way to celebrate Earth Day and rediscover Cleveland's Emerald Necklace.

Brian and Patrick open Episode 14 of Saints Speak with a recap of the Spring Gala, Saints Just Wanna Have Fun, and a look ahead at upcoming events at LCA. They're then joined by Mike Fletcher, Athletic Director and Assistant Principal, and Meghann Campbell, Dean of Students, who bring both leadership and coaching experience to a conversation about youth sports. Together, they discuss the value of early athletic participation, while offering practical insights on how to keep sports fun, balanced, and healthy for young athletes without losing sight of what matters most.

Brian and Patrick return for a quick episode of Saints Speak to highlight some exciting happenings at LCA. They preview the upcoming Celebration of the Arts Weekend, including the Saints Showcase theatre production and Visual Art Show, and talk about the Saints Just Wanna Have Fun! Spring Gala coming up on March 21. Then it's time for some fun with an '80s-themed "Finish the Lyric" game to close out the episode.

In this episode of Saints Speak, Brian sits down with Craig Hassall, President and CEO of Playhouse Square, for an engaging conversation about his journey to Cleveland and the path that led him to the largest theatre district outside of New York. Craig shares his professional background, his passion for the arts, and why he's proud to call Cleveland home. It's a behind-the-scenes look at leadership, creativity, and the impact of Playhouse Square on our city and community.

With the 2026 Winter Olympic Games underway, Saints Speak is honored to welcome LCA parent and two-time Winter Olympic athlete, Julie Koons. Julie competed in short-track speed skating at the 1998 and 2002 Winter Olympics, and she joins us to share what it was like racing on the world's biggest stage. From the discipline and sacrifice required to become an Olympian, to the lessons sports teach about perseverance, resilience, and faith, this timely episode offers inspiration for students, families, and Saints alike, all in the heart of the Olympic Games.

It's a Saints Speak snow day special! In Episode 10, we share updates on rescheduling school events after our snow days and talk about welcoming students back to school on Wednesday. Plus, Brian and Patrick lighten things up with a fun round of "Finish the Sentence: LCA Edition," where anything can happen. A mix of updates, laughs, and school spirit, just in time to head back to campus! Thanks for listening — we'll see you next time with more stories, updates, and insights from our community and beyond. Stay tuned for Episode 11 on February 10. Until then, remember to always...be a Saint!

What really happens in the school clinic each day? In this episode of Saints Speak, we sit down with school nurse Jessica Hobbs to talk about life behind the clinic door. From funny and unforgettable student stories to the most common reasons students stop by, Nurse Hobbs shares what it’s like caring for our school community. She also offers practical tips for staying healthy during cold and flu season and explains how students and families can help keep everyone feeling their best. It’s an informative and entertaining look at a role that keeps our Saints safe and healthy every day. Thanks for listening — we'll see you next time with more stories, updates, and insights from our community and beyond. Stay tuned for Episode 10 on January 27. Until then, remember to always...be a Saint!

In this special Christmas episode of Saints Speak, we feature some of our favorite guests — our students! Allan, Emma, Chloe, and Noah join us, and we have so much fun laughing with them as they share favorite Christmas memories, family traditions, and what makes the season exciting for them. Their joy, humor, and excitement are contagious, and we hope it carries over to you as you listen and brings a smile (or a laugh) to your own holiday season. Just like our students, Saints Speak is going on Christmas break. Thank you to our loyal listeners for tuning in and sharing our podcast journey in 2025. We look forward to sharing more with you in the New Year when episode 9 of Saints Speak drops on Tuesday, January 13!

Advent is more than just a countdown to Christmas; it is a season rich with meaning and opportunities for personal growth. In this podcast episode, LCA's Director of Mission and Ministry, Paula Fitzgerald, and Fr. Jim Martin engage in a heartfelt discussion about the significance of Advent, its transformative power, and how we can navigate this period of waiting with intention and grace. Fr. James Martin, SJ, is a Jesuit priest, editor at large of America Media and a New York Times bestselling author of Learning to Pray, Jesus: A Pilgrimage and many other books. He participated in the Synod on Synodality, is a consultor to the Vatican's Dicastery for Communication, and in 2024, Pope Francis asked him to recommend comedians to attend a global gathering for artists and comedians. We are delighted to welcome Fr. Jim to this episode of Saints Speak! Thanks for listening — we'll see you next time with more stories, updates, and insights from our community and beyond. Stay tuned for Episode 8 on December 16. Until then, remember to always...be a Saint!

In this episode of Saints Speak, we're joined by 4th grade Saints—Sadie, Sisely, JJ, and Massimo—who share their favorite family Thanksgiving traditions and reflect on what they're most grateful for as we enter the holiday season. Their heartfelt stories and thoughtful insights are sure to warm your heart as you prepare to welcome loved ones and gather together for Thanksgiving. From all of us at LCA, happy Thanksgiving! We'll see you next time with more stories, updates, and insights from our community and beyond. Stay tuned for Episode 7 on December 2. Until then, remember to always...be a Saint!

It's a first for the Saints Speak podcast! To celebrate our second-annual All Saints Day of Giving, we invited friends and families of LCA to tune in and watch the production of Saints Speak live and in real time. This week's special guest is Margie Wright-McGowan, Chair of LCA's Board of Directors. Margie shares her perspective on the history of our school, both as a parent and Board Member. You'll find her humor delightful, her wisdom inspiring, and her love for LCA unmistakable. Thanks for listening — we'll see you next time with more stories, updates, and insights from our community and beyond. Stay tuned for Episode 6 on November 18. Until then, remember to always...be a Saint! Please Note: Episode 5 of Saints Speak was recorded on Monday, November 3. Those who watched the livestream of the production will have heard the episode before its regular release on Tuesday, November 4.

In this episode, we're joined by Ed Gallagher, President and CEO of Beck Center for the Arts — one of Lakewood's cultural gems. Ed shares how Beck's classes, performances, and community programs invite kids and adults alike to explore their creativity. From painting and pottery to dance and drama, he explains why the arts are essential to development — and how a little creativity can uplift a community. Thanks for listening — we'll see you next time with more stories, updates, and insights from our community and beyond. Stay tuned for Episode 5 on November 4. Until then, remember to always...be a Saint!

At Lakewood Catholic Academy, parents play a vital role in shaping the student experience. In this episode, Brian and Patrick sit down with Brenna Warrell, Principal, and Jennifer Berardinelli, Vice President of Early Childhood Learning, to explore how the partnership between school and home strengthens our community. As administrative liaisons to the SSO, Brenna and Jennifer share how this dynamic parent group enhances connection, service, and school spirit. Brian and Patrick also share an overview of what's happened at school since the last episode, and what's coming in the weeks ahead. Thanks for listening — we'll see you next time with more stories, updates, and insights from our community and beyond. Stay tuned for Episode 4 on October 21. Until then, remember to always...be a Saint!

In this episode, nationally recognized author and parenting expert Michelle Icard joins us by phone to share practical insights on guiding children through the challenges of adolescence. From building stronger connections to helping kids develop independence, Michelle offers thoughtful strategies to support families during this pivotal stage. Brian and Patrick also bring you school news and highlights for busy the month ahead. Thanks for listening — we'll see you next time with more stories, updates, and insights from our community and beyond. Stay tuned for Episode 3 on October 7. Until then, remember to always...be a Saint!

Saints Speak is back for Season 2! We're kicking things off with none other than second grade teacher Mrs. Lauren Raffel (formerly Miss Lacey). She spills the tea on her summer wedding, joins Brian and Patrick in a round of High Five or Hard Pass, and even dives into the other big wedding buzz—Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce. In case you didn't know, Mrs. Raffel is Taylor's biggest fan! Meanwhile, Brian and Patrick catch you up on the first whirlwind days of the new school year and give a sneak peek at what's on deck. So grab your earbuds, get ready to laugh, and join us for another season that's all about community, fun, and a whole lot of LCA spirit. Stay tuned for Episode 2 on September 23. Until then, remember to always...be a Saint!

In a blink, the 2024-25 school year and season one of the Saints Speak podcast is coming to a close! This past year has been jam-packed with accomplishments and activities, and next year will be no different. Principal, Brenna Warrell, and Assistant Principal, Mike Fletcher, join the podcast to reflect on the school year, their roles at LCA, and why it often feels like our school is a family. Episode #18 Features: Looking back on some recent special events at LCA. Looking ahead to graduations, the eighth grade clap-out, field day, and more. Recapping the school year with Ms. Warrell and Mr. Fletcher. Prayer and reflection with Mrs. Fitzgerald. Thank you for joining us this year, and stay tuned for Saints Speak season two when school resumes in the fall. Have an amazing summer, and until next time, remember to always...be a Saint!

Headmistress of LCA's House Program, Mrs. Nagy, joins Saints Speak to share a behind-the-scenes look at this fun and educational middle school leadership program at LCA. She also shares what she loves about being a fourth grade teacher. Brian and Patrick welcome Juliet and Lula to the podcast to share their fourth grade experiences and what they're looking forward to most about middle school. Episode #17 Features: Looking back on some recent special events at LCA. Key Upcoming Dates: Choir and band concerts, Lemonade Day, 6th grade golf course, graduations and more! Interviews with Mrs. Leah Nagy and fourth grade Saints, Juliet and Lula. A special prayer from Rooted in Faith, Growing in Love: LCA's 20th Anniversary Book of Prayers. Thank you for joining us, and stay tuned for Episode #18 on May 27 — the final Saints Speak episode of the school year. Until next time, remember to always...be a Saint!

The last month of the school year is here and it is jam-packed with happenings! Don't worry — Brian and Patrick review what you need to know for the first couple of weeks of the month we lovingly refer to as, "Maycember." Brian also shares his reflections on the passing of Pope Francis as we remember his impact on the Catholic Church. Episode #16 Features: Looking back on a restful but busy spring break. Key Upcoming Dates: May Crowning and Pro Aliis, First Communions, Kindergarten Spa Day, House Cup, and more! Remembering Pope Francis through reflection and prayer. Thank you for joining us, and stay tuned for Episode #17 on May 13 — one of the last Saints Speak episodes of the school year. Until next time, remember to always...be a Saint!

With just under two weeks until Easter, Fr. Patrick sits down with Brian and Patrick to discuss his Lenten journey and share reflections on what this liturgical season means to him. You'll also hear about the success of our 20th Anniversary Gala, a Celebration of the Arts weekend at LCA, and more. Be sure to join us at the end of April on Saints Speak when we'll outline everything you need to know for the fast-paced final month of the school year, "Maycember!" Episode #15 Features: Looking Back: 20th Anniversary Gala, Dads' Basketball Tournament, Celebrating the Arts at LCA, and more! Key Upcoming Dates: 8th Grade Trip to Washington, DC, Easter Break, and more! Special Guest: Fr. Patrick Schultz, Parochial Vicar of the Lakewood Parishes. Closing Prayer with Fr. Patrick. Thank you for joining us, and stay tuned for Episode #16 on April 29. Until next time, remember to always...be a Saint!

LCA's biggest fundraiser of the year is upon us! In just a few short days, we'll celebrate the first 20 years of LCA as we look ahead to our bright future at The Academy Awards: LCA's 2025 Spring Gala. In this episode, hear how members of the Advancement Team are preparing to wow our guests and delight them with surprises and entertainment when they spend the evening with us on Saturday. Episode #14 Features: Key Upcoming Dates: Spring Gala, St. Joseph's Day Mass, Dad's Basketball Tournament, and more! Behind the Scenes planning and prepping for the Spring Gala Bid online on packages in the silent auction Closing Reflection and Prayer with Paula Fitzgerald, Director of Mission and Ministry. Saints Speak will be back on Tuesday, April 8 after a short post-Gala break. Until next time, remember to always...be a Saint!

Just hours after returning from the El Salvador Mission trip with St. Luke Parish, LCA President, Brian Sinchak, shares his experiences and initial reflections from a powerful immersion in Central America. He describes the power of listening and linking arms with those in need to make steps toward a better life for all. Don't miss this special episode of Saints Speak. Episode #13 Features: Key Upcoming Dates: LCA Book Fair, 8th Grade Confirmation, Ash Wednesday Mass, 20th Anniversary Spring Gala on March 15, and more! When Books Come to Life: Classroom Transformation Day Highlight Video Brian shares his experience in El Salvador. Closing Prayer: The Romero Prayer. Thank you for joining us, and stay tuned for Episode #14 on March 11. Until next time, remember to always...be a Saint!

Get to know the woman behind the magic of LCA's healthy dining program, Mrs. Nicole Salerno! A 4-time LCA parent, Nicole shares her wisdom and practical tips for eating well at home on this week's episode of Saints Speak. Brian and Patrick share their thoughts on Super Bowl LIX, and help get you ready for the long weekend ahead. Don't forget — tickets to LCA's upcoming Spring Gala on March 15 go on sale at the end of this week. Thanks for tuning in! Episode #12 Features: Key Upcoming Dates: Arguably the Best, Black History Month and Mass, Valentine's Day and a long weekend, the 20th Anniversary Spring Gala, and more! Special Guest: Nicole Salerno, Co-Founder of Lago Custom Events, accomplished Cleveland-area restaurateur and LCA healthy dining program partner. Closing Reflection and Prayer with Paula Fitzgerald, Director of Mission and Ministry. Thank you for joining us, and stay tuned for Episode #13 on February 25. Until next time, remember to always...be a Saint!

There's no doubt about it — in the end, it's the beginning that counts! We're talking everything about Early Childhood Learning at LCA. Mrs. Fitzgerald even closes out the episode by sharing a new prayer developed by our Early Childhood educators and their students. February is going to be a busy month at LCA, but Brian and Patrick have you covered with an overview of what to expect. Thanks for tuning in! Episode #11 Features: Recent Highlights: Catholic Schools Week Open House, Cold Days, Socks or $6 for El Salvador, and more. Key Upcoming Dates: 8th Grade LCA Talks, 6th Grade Hunger Banquet, 5th Grade Poetry Cafe, 6th Grade Arguably the Best Debate, Black History Month Mass, and more! Special Guest: Jennifer Berardinelli, Vice President of Early Childhood Learning at LCA. Closing Reflection and Prayer with Paula Fitzgerald, Director of Mission and Ministry. Thank you for joining us, and stay tuned for Episode #12 on February 11. Until next time, remember to always...be a Saint!

Happy New Year! LCA's Saints Speak Podcast is back for the spring semester. Brian and Patrick begin Episode 10 by reviewing what happened over the Christmas break, as well as the busy first week back. They welcome AI expert and LCA parent, Paul Roetzer, to discuss how parents can navigate the ever-evolving world of AI. Episode #10 Features: Recent Highlights: Winter Break, alumni initiatives, the Saints StartUp competition, and more! Key Upcoming Dates: Catholic Schools Week, Socks or $6 for El Salvador, Winter sports, Saints Showcase, and more. Special Guest: Interview with Paul Roetzer. Parent Resource: Kid Safe GPT for Parents Closing Reflection and Prayer with Paula Fitzgerald, Director of Mission and Ministry. Thank you for joining us, and stay tuned for Episode #11 on January 28. Until next time, remember to always...be a Saint!

With just days to go before Christmas break, the excitement and joy is palpable on campus! Hear from two of our student Saints about their favorite things about LCA, Christmas and spending time with family.  Saints Speak returns on Tuesday, January 14 after a brief winter break. See you in the new year! Episode #9 Features: Recent Highlights: 5th Grade Christmas Market, Tree Lighting Ceremony, and Scavenger Hunt; 2nd Grade First Reconciliation; Elf on the Shelf Fun and more! Key Upcoming Dates: Choir Concert on Wednesday, Band Concert on Thursday, Advent Retreat Day on Friday. Special Guests: Emily (4th grade) and Jack (7th grade) join Mr. Sinchak to share their favorite Christmas memories and traditions. Closing Reflection and Prayer with Paula Fitzgerald, Director of Mission and Ministry. Thank you for joining us, and stay tuned for Episode #10 on January 14. Until next time, remember to always...be a Saint!

LCA's Director of Mission & Ministry, Paula Fitzgerald, joins the podcast this week for a beautiful conversation about the season of Advent. In recent years, Advent has become more and more synonymous with the holiday of Christmas, but Paula shares that it is so much more. After all... you can't spell adventure without "Advent." Episode #8 features: Recent Highlights including a Thanksgiving recap 🦃 Key Dates for the Next Two Weeks (Tree Lighting this Friday!🎄) Advent Interview & Closing Reflection with Paula Fitzgerald, Director of Mission and Ministry Thank you for joining us, and stay tuned for Episode #9 on December 17th. Until next time, remember to always... be a Saint.

This week we are joined by LCA Board Member, parent, and current President of St. Edward High School - KC McKenna. KC highlights the most important things to consider when applying to high school, with a special focus on the importance of people and finding the right culture fit. We are very grateful to KC for joining the show. Episode #7 features: Recent Highlights - Veterans Day, Great Lake Shake🤝, and SSO's Fall Fundraiser  Key Dates for the Next Two Weeks High School Admissions Interview with KC McKenna - President of St. Edward High School Closing Reflection & Prayer with Paula Fitzgerald, Director of Mission and Ministry Thank you for joining us, and stay tuned for Episode #8 on December 3rd. Until next time, remember to always... be a Saint.

It's a BIG week here at Saints Speak! For the first time in show history, we are joined by current students in the podcast studio. Our episode focuses on annual traditions and signature experiences at LCA, and features two interviews with 7th and 8th grade Saints. You won't want to miss this. Episode #6 features: Recent Highlights - Classroom Transformation Day, LCA's First Ever Day of Giving, and All Saints Day  Key Dates for the Next Two Weeks 2 Interviews with LCA Middle Schoolers - We cover athletics, academics, and other extracurriculars and special events. Closing Reflection & Prayer with Paula Fitzgerald, Director of Mission and Ministry Thank you for joining us, and stay tuned for Episode #7 on November 19th. Until next time, remember to always... be a Saint.

Welcome to the fifth episode of Saints Speak! There has been so much going on at LCA, and even more to look forward to in coming weeks. Brian and Patrick cover it all in episode #5. Stay tuned for our special interview with Meghann Campbell, where we discuss all things reading, from ways to inspire your children to ways you can get involved as a reading role model. Episode #5 features: Recent Highlights - Racial Justice Immersion to Atlanta, GA & Montgomery, AL, Grandparents' Day, and our annual Fall Fest! Key Dates for the Next Two Weeks Interview with LCA's Dean of Students Meghann Campbell on the joys and benefits of reading Closing Reflection & Prayer with Paula Fitzgerald, Director of Mission and Ministry Links: Dolly Parton's Imagination Library LCA's Diverse Literature List for Middle School Students Thank you for joining us, and stay tuned for Episode #6 on November 5th. Until next time, remember to always... be a Saint.

Welcome to the fourth episode of Saints Speak! After a recent trip to New York City and before our upcoming Racial Justice trip to Atlanta and Alabama, Brian and Patrick got together to discuss the evolution of student travel at LCA. And who doesn't love a good Jonas Brothers story? You can find that gem at the 46:15 mark. Episode #4 features: Recent Highlights - LCA's 20th Birthday Party, Parent Support Series with author Michelle Icard, and more! Key Dates for the Next Two Weeks Interview with President Brian Sinchak on the role of student travel experiences at LCA Closing Reflection & Prayer with Paula Fitzgerald, Director of Mission and Ministry Thank you for joining us, and stay tuned for Episode #5 on October 22nd. Until next time, remember to always... be a Saint.

Welcome to the third episode of Saints Speak! LCA's 20th "birthday" is quickly approaching, so we invited Founding Principal Maureen Arbeznik to join the podcast. She shares awesome stories and memories from the early days of Lakewood Catholic Academy. Episode #3 features: Recent Highlights - 8th Grade Amazing Race, 7th Grade Best Day of School Ever, and more! Key Dates for the Next Two Weeks Interview with Founding Principal Maureen Arbeznik: Memories from the First 20 Years of LCA Closing Reflection & Prayer with Paula Fitzgerald, Director of Mission and Ministry Thank you for joining us, and stay tuned for Episode #4 on October 8th. Until next time, remember to always... be a Saint.

Welcome back to Saints Speak! Special thank you to everyone who listened to our debut episode and offered tips and feedback. Your support is much appreciated. Episode #2 features: Back to School Highlights - First Day of School, House Sorting, Golf Success! Key Dates for the Next Two Weeks Parent Support Segment - Test Prep with Heart featuring Eileen McGuire, Dean of the International Baccalaureate Program Closing Prayer with Paula Fitzgerald, Director of Mission and Ministry Thank you for joining us, and stay tuned for Episode #3 on September 24th. Until next time, remember to always... be a Saint.

Welcome to the debut of Saints Speak! Episode #1 features: Summer Highlights - Including Exciting Improvements at LCA New Staff Announcements Key Dates for the 1st Week Back Parent Support Segment - Back to School Transition Tips Closing Prayer Thank you for joining us, and stay tuned for Episode #2 on September 10th. Until next time, remember to always... be a Saint.