Always A Raven Podcast

Jill Simons '10

On this week’s episode of Always a Raven, host Janelle Menz sits down with Jill Simons, Benedictine College Class of 2010, for a conversation rooted in purpose, discernment, and the power of understanding how you’re uniquely wired. As the founder and executive director of Many Parts Ministries, Jill shares how her work centers on helping people uncover their charisms—specific gifts given to build and serve others in meaningful ways. Jill’s path to Benedictine was anything but conventional. Torn between pursuing musical theater and deepening her faith, she chose a place where she could fully wrestle with life’s biggest questions. That same curiosity carried through her time on campus—studying theology and English, performing in theater, studying abroad, and embracing a wide range of experiences that would later shape her work. After graduation, Jill’s entrepreneurial spirit led her to build multiple successful businesses before ultimately pivoting toward ministry. What began as a personal interest in charism discernment evolved into a calling—one that now helps individuals and organizations find clarity, purpose, and direction in both their personal and professional lives. At its core, this episode is about clarity, identity, and living with intention. Jill’s story is a reminder that when you understand the gifts you’ve been given, you can move through life with greater confidence, deeper purpose, and a clearer sense of how you’re meant to serve.

Tony Garofalo '72

On this week’s episode of Always a Raven, host Janelle Menz sits down with Tony Garofalo, Benedictine College Class of 1972, for a conversation that spans decades, dugouts, and a career few could have imagined. From his early days at Saint Benedict to the bright lights of Major League Baseball, Tony reflects on a journey shaped not by a single plan, but by persistence, relationships, and a deep love for being part of a team. Tony shares how his path began with a simple desire to stay close to athletics—eventually evolving into a groundbreaking career as a head athletic trainer in professional baseball. With stories that range from hilarious clubhouse moments to career-defining opportunities, he offers a behind-the-scenes look at life in the big leagues and the mindset it took to thrive there. Throughout the episode, Tony highlights the foundational role Benedictine played in his life—from its tight-knit community to the lessons in humility, hard work, and showing up for others. Whether navigating high-pressure environments or building trust with elite athletes, he credits those early experiences with shaping his approach to leadership and care. Now surrounded by family and still deeply connected to the profession, Tony continues to give back—mentoring young athletic trainers, supporting future Ravens, and staying involved in the game he loves. At its heart, this episode is a testament to service, resilience, and the lasting impact of a Benedictine education—proving that the Raven spirit carries far beyond campus, and into every chapter that follows.

Kyle McMillian '06

On this week’s episode of Always a Raven, host Janelle Menz reconnects with Kyle McMillan, Benedictine College Class of 2006, for a conversation two decades in the making. A Kansas City native now living in Phoenix, Kyle reflects on his journey from a tight-knit Midwestern upbringing to building a life and career in Arizona—while carrying Benedictine’s sense of community with him every step of the way. Kyle shares how his path wasn’t perfectly mapped out, starting in chemistry before pivoting to finance with the help of mentors who challenged him to lean into his strengths. That shift led to a long career in banking, where he’s spent nearly two decades growing within one organization and embracing opportunities that pushed him beyond his comfort zone—including a life-changing move out West. Throughout the conversation, Kyle highlights the lasting impact of Benedictine’s culture—from the friendships formed during Rock Week to the deeper lessons of connection, presence, and stepping into unfamiliar spaces. Whether it’s maintaining decades-long friendships or building new networks in a new city, he emphasizes how those early experiences shaped the way he approaches both life and leadership. Now a husband, father, and active member of his local community, Kyle shares how he continues to “pay forward” what he gained in college—through service, mentorship, and even a memorable tattoo earned after raising over $1 million for charity. At its core, this episode is a reflection on staying connected, giving back, and the enduring power of the Raven community—no matter where life takes you.

Jane Whelan ' 24

On this week’s episode of Always a Raven, host Janelle Menz sits down with Jane Whelan, Benedictine College Class of 2024, for a conversation rooted in curiosity, calling, and the courage to pivot. From a childhood filled with road trips to battlefields and museums to pursuing her master’s in public history at American University, Jane shares how a lifelong love of storytelling has shaped her academic and professional journey. Originally set on becoming a high school history teacher, Jane’s path shifted through hands-on experiences, mentorship, and a pivotal realization that being good at something doesn’t always mean it’s the right long-term fit. A professor’s challenge to rethink her “why” became a turning point, guiding her toward museums and public-facing history. She reflects on working at the Smithsonian and discovering a passion for smaller, community-centered institutions, where history feels more personal and accessible. Through these experiences, Jane emphasizes the importance of chasing clarity over credentials and staying open to unexpected direction. Now preparing to return to Benedictine in a new role within its library, Jane talks about making history engaging and alive for others. The conversation ultimately explores discernment, purpose, and how understanding where we come from can help shape where we’re going.

Joe Wurtz '99

On this week’s episode of Always a Raven, host Janelle Menz sits down with Joe Wurtz, Benedictine College Class of 1999 and current Dean of Students, for a conversation rooted in mentorship, growth, and the enduring power of community. Joe’s journey to Benedictine began with a transfer sparked by his passion for philosophy, but it was the people—mentors, teammates, and friends—who ultimately shaped his path. From a pivotal moment on the rugby field that led to deeper mentorship and faith formation, to his evolution from student to campus leader, Joe reflects on how being seen and challenged by others changed the trajectory of his life. Throughout the episode, Joe shares how Benedictine’s core values—faith, friendship, and the love of learning—have remained constant, even as the world and student experience continue to evolve. He offers insight into the challenges facing today’s students, from technology to increased parental involvement, and emphasizes the importance of accountability, human connection, and stepping outside of comfort zones. At its core, this conversation highlights the role of mentorship and intentional community in forming confident, purpose-driven individuals. Joe’s story is a testament to the idea that growth often comes through challenge—and that the Raven identity is built on investing in others, embracing opportunity, and moving forward with purpose.