Sweet Seats Podcast

🏃‍♂️ Season 2, Episode 4 – Joseph Murphy: Miles, Mindset & the Road to Notre DameKatherine and Alana sit down with Joseph Murphy, standout distance runner from Hershey High School, to talk about his journey in track and field. Joseph shares how he first got started in running, what a typical training week looks like, and the dedication it takes to compete at a high level.They also dive into the college recruitment process, including what it was like navigating opportunities and ultimately committing to Notre Dame. Joseph opens up about the discipline, mindset, and memorable moments that have shaped his running career.And of course, they wrap things up with the Sweet Seats Round 🍫👟🌴 — where Joseph reveals his favorite Hershey candy, go-to running shoe brand, and dream vacation destination.🎧 Tune in for an inspiring episode about hard work, endurance, and chasing big goals.

🎀 Season 2, Episode 3 – Aniella Brenner & Kate Maitrejean: Energy, Teamwork & CheerKatherine and Alana are joined by Aniella Brenner and Kate Maitrejean, senior cheerleaders at Hershey High School, for an upbeat and inspiring conversation about life in cheer.They share how they first got started in cheerleading, what it takes to train and perform at a high level, and the incredible bond that forms between teammates. From practices to performances, Aniella and Kate reflect on how cheer has shaped their confidence, discipline, and perspective both on and off the mat.They also dive into the life lessons cheer has taught them — from teamwork and trust to pushing through challenges and celebrating success together.And of course, it wouldn’t be Sweet Seats without the Sweet Seats Round 🍫🎶🌴 — where they reveal their favorite Hershey candy, go-to pre-game hype songs, and dream vacation destinations!🎧 Tune in for a fun, energetic episode full of spirit, friendship, and positivity.#SweetSeatsPodcast #HersheyCheer #StudentAthlete #Season2

🎾 Season 2, Episode 2 – Alex Camp: Serving Up SuccessKatherine and Alana are back with another exciting episode of Sweet Seats as they sit down with Alex Camp, standout tennis player for Hershey High School.From the first time he picked up a racket to competing at a high level, Alex shares how he got into tennis and why the sport means so much to him. He talks about something people don’t always realize — how tennis can absolutely be a team sport, especially at the high school level, where camaraderie and support matter just as much as individual wins.Alex also opens up about his college recruitment journey as the first player from Hershey High School to sign on to play varsity tennis in college since 2021. Whether it’s match point in a tight third set or bouncing back after a tough loss, Alex shares how he stays mentally strong and focused.And of course, they wrap it up with the fan-favorite Sweet Seats Round, where Alex reveals his favorite Hershey candy 🍫, his go-to pre-game hype song 🎶, and his most-used emoji 📱.🎧 Tune in for an inspiring conversation about resilience, teamwork, and what it takes to compete at the next level.#SweetSeatsPodcast #HersheyTennis #Season2 #StudentAthlete #HighSchoolSports

🎧 Season 2, Episode 1 — Brady Cox: Skates, Grit, and the Sweet Seats Round Katherine and Alana kick off Season 2 of Sweet Seats with a bang as they sit down with Brady Cox, standout hockey player for Hershey High School. From his earliest days learning to skate to battling it out on the ice, Brady shares what hockey means to him and how he stays grounded through both triumphs and setbacks.They explore the mental side of the sport, lessons learned in tough games, and what it takes to keep pushing forward. Then, of course, it's time for the fan-favorite Sweet Seats Round—featuring Brady’s favorite Hershey candy, his go-to pre-game hype song, and the dream vacation spot he’s hoping to score one day.Whether you're a hockey fan or just love hearing from determined young athletes, this episode sets the tone for another amazing season. 🏒🔥🎙️ Now streaming on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you get your pods! #SweetSeatsPodcast #HersheyHockey #BradyCox #Season2Kickoff #StudentAthleteSpotlight

🎙️ Episode 17 – Maddie Zimmer: From Hershey to the Olympics and NCAA Glory Sweet Seats Podcast with Katherine & AlanaIn this unforgettable episode, Katherine and Alana sit down with Maddie Zimmer, Hershey native and international field hockey star. Maddie shares her incredible journey from playing at Hershey High School to becoming a three-time NCAA National Champion with Northwestern University, where she was also honored as back-to-back unanimous Big Ten Player of the Year.Now a Paris 2024 Olympian and current member of the U.S. Women’s National Team, Maddie opens up about the mental side of elite competition, what gives her an edge on the field, how she stays grounded through pressure, and what it truly felt like to represent Team USA at the Olympic Games.Plus, the trio dives into behind-the-scenes stories from the National Championships, her approach to leadership and focus, and of course — the always fun Sweet Seats Round!🔥 Don’t miss this inspiring, fun, and powerful conversation with one of Hershey’s all-time greats.

🎙️ Episode 16 – McKinley Taylor: Riding the Ridge LinesIn this episode of Sweet Seats, Katherine and Alana hit the trails with McKinley Taylor, standout rider for the Hershey and Dauphin Composite Mountain Bike Team. McKinley shares how he first got into mountain biking, what drew him to the sport, and why the tight-knit, supportive biking community keeps him coming back for more — even after long rides and gnarly climbs.They dive into the intensity of cross-country courses, race-day nerves, and the unique vibe of team trail culture in central Pennsylvania. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or just curious about the world of youth MTB, McKinley brings insight, grit, and good energy to the mic.And of course, it’s time for the Sweet Seats Round, where McKinley reveals: • His favorite Hershey candy • Go-to Gatorade flavor • And his dream vacation spot after the race season endsTrail-tested and community-rooted, this episode is all about finding your flow — on and off the bike.

🎙️ Episode 15 – Reggie Onwe: Heart, Hustle, & Hershey FootballIn this episode of Sweet Seats, Katherine and Alana sit down with Reggie Onwe, a standout player from the Hershey High School football team, to talk about passion, leadership, and the power of playing for something bigger than yourself.Reggie shares how he first got into football, what the sport has come to mean to him over the years, and the leadership lessons he’s picked up both on and off the field. From intense practices to Friday night lights, Reggie brings a thoughtful perspective on what it takes to perform, stay grounded, and keep pushing forward — even when the going gets tough.Of course, the episode ends with a fan-favorite — the Sweet Seats Round, where Reggie shares his favorite Hershey candy, pre-game hype song, and his ultimate dream vacation spot.🎧 If you’re into football, student-athlete journeys, or inspiring young leaders, this one’s for you!

🎙️ Episode 14 – Taryn Valoczki: Focus, Field Hockey, and the Next LevelIn this episode of Sweet Seats, Katherine and Alana sit down with Taryn Valoczki, standout field hockey player from Hershey High School, to talk about her journey from picking up a stick to committing to play at the next level with Villanova University.Taryn opens up about how she first discovered field hockey, what the sport means to her, and how she stays composed and focused during high-pressure games. She shares stories about key moments on the field, the importance of mindset and leadership, and how she navigated the college recruitment process — from training to visits to making the big decision.And of course, the episode wraps with the Sweet Seats Round, where things get fun with Taryn’s favorite Gatorade flavors, vacation spots, and more!🎧 Whether you're an athlete, fan, or future recruit, this episode is full of heart, hustle, and inspiration.

🎙️ Episode 13 – Evy Winder: Running with PurposeIn this episode of Sweet Seats, Katherine and Alana are joined by Evy Winder, a powerhouse in cross-country and track at Hershey High School. From long runs in the heat to sprint finishes on the track, Evy shares how she first fell in love with running — and what keeps her coming back day after day.They dive into the mental side of distance running, discussing how Evy tackles nerves, doubt, and those moments when the finish line feels far away. She opens up about the impact the sport has had on her life, including the friendships, structure, and self-confidence it’s helped build. Most importantly, she explains how the lessons of running — grit, pacing, and pushing through — translate far beyond the track.And of course, it wouldn’t be a Sweet Seats episode without the fan-favorite Sweet Seats Round — where Evy reveals her favorite Gatorade flavor, game-day pump-up songs, and go-to emoji!🎧 Whether you're a runner or just love a good story of growth and grit, this episode is a must-listen.

🎙️ Episode 12 – Lexie Hahn & Lexi Schulz: Field Hockey’s Fierce DuoIn this episode of Sweet Seats, Katherine and Alana sit down with Lexie Hahn and Lexi Schulz, the dynamic duo lighting up the turf for Hershey High School Field Hockey. From their earliest days with a stick in hand to leading their team on and off the field, Lexie and Lexi share how they got started in the sport, the drills they actually enjoy, and what leadership looks like when you're in the heat of competition.They talk about how the game has shaped them, the moments they’ll never forget, and the life lessons that field hockey has taught them — from resilience to teamwork to hustle. Plus, in the fan-favorite Sweet Seats Round, they reveal their go-to hype songs, favorite Hershey candy, dream vacation spots, and more!🎧 Tune in, cheer on, and get inspired.

🎙️ Episode 11 – Jack Zakovitch: Precision, Pressure & the Playoff PushIn this week’s episode of Sweet Seats, Katherine and Alana sit down with Jack Zakovitch, a dynamic and disciplined force on the Hershey High School soccer team. ⚽🔥Jack shares how he first got started in soccer, what it’s like to play at such a high level of competition, and the mindset it takes to adapt his game based on different teammates, opponents, and match situations. He also reflects on the experience of competing in district and state championships, and the growth that comes with playing under pressure.In this episode:Jack’s soccer origin story and early influencesHow he trains, prepares, and adapts his playHis take on team chemistry and game-day strategyWhat it felt like to go deep into the postseasonThe lessons he’s learned as a leader and competitor🎧 Tune in for another inspiring conversation — only on Sweet Seats Podcast!#SweetSeats #HersheySoccer #HometownHeroes #HighSchoolSports

🎙️ Episode 10 – Grant Later: Friday Night Lights & Full-Court PressIn this milestone 10th episode, Katherine and Alana sit down with Grant Later, a standout football and basketball player at Hershey High School 🏈🏀Grant shares how he first got into football, the key people who have inspired his journey, and the physical and mental challenges of playing such a demanding sport. He also talks about his love for basketball, the unforgettable experience of making it to the state championship, and how both sports have helped shape who he is today.In this episode:What it takes to play two varsity sportsThe mindset needed for football toughnessThe excitement of a championship basketball runWhat Grant has learned about leadership, discipline, and himselfFuture goals on and off the fieldPlus, don’t miss his answers in the Sweet Seats Round, including pre-game hype songs and favorite vacation spots.🎧 Tune in now to hear Grant’s story!#SweetSeats #HersheyFootball #HersheyBasketball #StudentAthlete #HighSchoolSports #HometownHeroes

🎙️ Episode 9 – Blake Umberger: From the Ice to the DiamondOn this week’s Sweet Seats, Katherine and Alana sit down with Blake Umberger, two-sport standout in hockey and baseball at Hershey High School. 🏒⚾Blake shares how he first got involved in hockey, the lessons the sport has taught him, and what it’s like competing as part of a high-level team. He also opens up about the unique mental challenges of baseball, how he’s learned to overcome them, and the exciting story of how he was recruited to play at a top college program.In this episode:How Blake discovered his love for hockeyThe teamwork and discipline that comes from competitive sportsHandling the mental ups and downs of baseballHis college recruitment journeyWhat’s next after high schoolIt’s an inspiring conversation that shows the dedication, resilience, and love of the game that defines Hershey’s athletes.🎧 Tune in now and grab your Sweet Seat!#SweetSeats #HersheyHockey #HersheyBaseball #StudentAthlete #HometownHeroes

🎙️ Episode 8 – Eva Carlson & Niklas Budde: Kicking Goals & Overcoming ChallengesOn this week’s Sweet Seats, Katherine and Alana hit the pitch with Eva Carlson and Niklas Budde, standout soccer players from Hershey High School. ⚽🔥Eva and Niklas share how they each got started in soccer, what drives their passion for the game, and how they’ve handled the physical challenges that come with playing at a high level. They open up about overcoming injuries, the best advice they’ve ever received, and where they see their soccer journeys taking them in the future.In this episode:· How Eva and Niklas first fell in love with soccer· Training and handling the physical demands of the sport· Lessons learned from setbacks and injuries· The best advice that’s shaped their careers· Future goals and next steps on and off the fieldIt’s a conversation about resilience, teamwork, and the love of the game — straight from two of Hershey’s stars.🎧 Grab your Sweet Seat and tune in now!#SweetSeats #HersheySoccer #HighSchoolSports #HometownHeroes #SoccerLife

🎙️ Episode 7 – Avery Kesterson: Strength, Stamina & Swimming SuccessOn this week’s episode of Sweet Seats, Katherine and Alana dive into the pool with Avery Kesterson, standout swimmer for Hershey High School and the Hershey Aquatic Club. 🏊‍♀️💦Avery shares how she first discovered her love of swimming, what her training and competition season looks like, and how she pushes through both the physical and mental challenges of the sport. From long practices to big race moments, she gives us an inside look at what it takes to succeed in the water.In this episode:How Avery got started in swimmingWhat a season of training and competition looks likeStrategies for handling mental and physical challengesHer future plans in and beyond the poolIt’s an inspiring conversation filled with focus, determination, and hometown pride.🎧 Dive in and tune into Sweet Seats Podcast!#SweetSeats #HersheySwimming #HersheyAquaticClub #WomenInSports #HometownHeroes

🎙️ Episode 6 – Sophia Kim: Miles, Mindset & Moving ForwardThis week on Sweet Seats, Katherine and Alana sit down with Sophia Kim, standout runner for the Hershey High School track and cross-country teams. 🏃‍♀️✨Sophia shares how she first got into running, what her practices and training schedules look like, and the unique mix of physical and mental toughness required to compete at such a high level. She opens up about how she overcomes challenges, the role of nutrition in her performance, and the goals that keep her pushing forward.In this episode:· How Sophia got into running· Training insights from track to cross country· How she balances mental strength with physical endurance· The importance of fueling properly for peak performance· Her future goals both on and off the trackFrom dedication to determination, Sophia’s story will inspire athletes and fans alike.🎧 Lace up and tune in now on Sweet Seats Podcast!#SweetSeats #HersheyTrack #CrossCountryLife #WomenInSports #HometownHeroes

🎙️ Episode 5 – Luke & Caleb Tinsley: Brothers in the Fast LaneOn this week’s episode of Sweet Seats, Katherine and Alana dive in with Luke and Caleb Tinsley, powerhouse brothers on the Hershey High School Swim Team. 🏊‍♂️🏊‍♂️💥The Tinsleys share how they first got hooked on competitive swimming, what it’s like training side-by-side as siblings, and how they push each other to improve both in and out of the pool.In this episode:· Early mornings, grueling practices, and why it’s all worth it· How they support each other as brothers and teammates· Their biggest goals in and beyond the pool· 💬 Sweet Seats Round: favorite pre-meet hype songs, most-used emojis, and more!It’s all about family, focus, and fast finishes in this upbeat and inspiring interview.🎧 Take your mark… and tune in now to Sweet Seats Podcast!#SweetSeats #HersheySwimming #TwinAthletes #HometownHeroes #StudentAthleteLife #SweetSeatsPodcast

This week on Sweet Seats Podcast, Katherine and Alana welcome Maddie Bowe, the standout pitcher for Hershey High School’s softball team! 🥎🔥Maddie shares her journey into softball — from early beginnings to becoming one of the most consistent arms in the region. We talk about the grind behind the greatness — including what a typical practice and training week looks like, and how she keeps her cool when the pressure’s on and the bases are loaded.In this episode:How Maddie fell in love with softballMental tricks she uses to stay composedHer future goals (hint: she's not slowing down anytime soon)Favorite dugout traditionsPlus — our Sweet Seats round brings some laughs with her favorite hype song and her go-to Hershey candy 🍫It’s fast-paced, fun, and full of great insights from one of Hershey’s hardest-working athletes.🎧 Tune in now and take a seat — a Sweet Seat.#SweetSeats #HersheySoftball #PitcherPower #WomenInSports #HometownHeroes #SweetSeatsPodcast

On this episode of Sweet Seats Podcast, Katherine and Alana sit down with Hanna Russell, star athlete for the Hershey High School Girls Lacrosse Team. Hanna takes us behind the scenes of her exceptional season, with the team advancing to the state playoffs. We talk about when she started playing lacrosse, some of the challenges of learning, and her main inspiration and role models. Of course, we learn about her favorite Hershey’s candy and pre-game hype song. If you love stories about determination, teamwork, and hometown pride, this one’s for you. Tune in to get inspired by one of Hershey’s finest – only on Sweet Seats Podcast!

Tune in for an exciting episode as Katherine and Alana chat with Drew Grana, a sophomore at Hershey High School who is a standout track and field star and starter for the basketball team. Drew talks about how he got involved in track and field, his favorite events, and what's involved in a decathlon. He also discusses his role as a starter for the Hershey basketball team, and how he managed to keep it all together during the team’s historic playoff run. He maps out his plans for the busy summer, with competitive leagues in both basketball and track, and finishes up with the rapid-fire Sweet Seats Round! Don't miss this fun and insightful conversation!

Get ready for an exciting episode as Katherine and Alana sit down with James Campbell IV, a senior at Hershey High School and the captain of the basketball team. James led his team on an incredible journey towards the state championship, and in this episode, he shares his inspiring story. From his path on the basketball team through high school to the challenges he and his team faced, James opens up about the chemistry of the team, staying motivated, and handling the pressure of the season. Plus, they dive into his future plans and wrap up with the rapid-fire Sweet Seats Round! Don't miss this fun and engaging conversation!

Say hello to Sweet Seats Podcast - where hometown heroes get the mic!Hosted by two Hershey teens, Katherine and Alana, we're spotlighting high school athletes from around the region and beyond with big seasons, big dreams, and even bigger stories.Follow, subscribe, and tag your favorite athletes!