Thea Staten: From NWOAL to ACC "Straight Juice" (S01/E06)

Thea Staten: From NWOAL to ACC "Straight Juice" (S01/E06)

🐻 #BryanBuilt Podcast | Show Notes S01 E06: Thea Staten: From NWOAL to ACC "Straight Juice" Hosts: Chris Malanga and Superintendent Mark Rairigh Special Guests: Thea Staten and Coach Hilary Staten 🎙️ Episode Summary This week, the #BryanBuilt Podcast goes from the studio to the softball diamond. Chris and Mark dive into the "Grit and Service" required to sustain a championship culture. We are joined by the mother-daughter duo behind the Bryan Lady Bears’ historic run: senior pitcher and NC State commit Thea Staten, along with Head Coach Hilary Staten. In this episode, we explore Thea’s journey to 1,000 career strikeouts, the gymnastics background that built her D1 power, and the "midnight call" that launched her path to the ACC. We also provide a comprehensive News Feed update regarding the 2027-2028 school calendar and the massive Arts & Education construction project. Finally, Mark and Chris put their pride on the line as they head to Field 5 to see if they can survive three pitches from one of the best arms in Ohio. ⏱️ Episode Chapters: 00:00 🏁 Show Intro 02:00 📢 The #BryanBuilt News Feed 09:32 🥎 The Deep Dive: Thea and Hilary Staten 28:45 📬 The Mailbag: Business and School Collaboration 33:35 🎒 The Fun Segment: In the Box vs. Thea Staten 40:37 🍎 Golden Bear Standout: Chris Malanga 🗞️ The #BryanBuilt News Feed Superintendent Mark Rairigh provides updates on: * The 2027-28 Calendar: The Board has officially approved the calendar two years in advance. Mark details the "traditional" structure, including a start date aligned with the first football game and a conclusion prior to Memorial Day. * District Construction Progress: The demolition phase of the existing Central building classrooms is concluding . Mark explains the rejuvenation of the auditorium and the 90% funded "Art Connects Us" campaign. The CareerTech classroom is nearing completion for an August opening. Work continues on the new junior high gymnasium, where bleachers are now installed, and the weight room. * Bryan Elementary Art Exhibition: New location alert! This year’s show moves to the elementary school from April 27th to May 3rd . The building will be open 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM for families to view creations from "Cub" students through fifth grade. 🥎 The Deep Dive: Thea and Hilary Staten We welcome 3x All-Ohio pitcher Thea Staten and Coach Hilary Staten to discuss the Lady Bears' rise to three straight regional finals. * The Control Factor: Thea reveals she only started pitching because her grandpa told her it was the best way to be in control of the game. * The NC State Path: From a midnight phone call on September 1st to committing to the Wolfpack, we look at the intensity of the D1 recruitment process. * The Mom/Coach Dynamic: Hilary shares the perspective of leading a state-caliber program while navigating the recruiting trail as a parent. 📬 The #BryanBuilt Mailbag: Community Partnerships We address a community question: "How does the school involve local businesses in the curriculum?" Mark highlights the "Bear Brews" coffee shop and partnerships that teach students about revenue, overhead, and customer service.  🎒 The Fun Segment: In the Box vs. Thea Staten Mark and Chris head to the softball field to face Thea Staten’s "straight juice." Can Mark’s baseball background help him time a 65 MPH rise ball, or will the hosts be heading to the dugout with a "K" in the book? 🔔 🏆 Golden Bear Standout: Chris Malanga In a surprise twist, Superintendent Mark Rairigh takes over the mic to honor Chris Malanga. Chris was recently named the OASBO Communications Director of the Year (the Callie Wells award), recognizing his excellence in telling the story of Bryan City Schools. Connect With Us: * Podcast Website: podcast.bryanschools.net [https://www.google.com/search?q=http://podcast.bryanschools.net] * Social Media: Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X and TikTok Remember: Greatness isn't born, it's #BryanBuilt. 🐻🏆 Podcast Theme: Music by Bensound.com/free-music-for-videos [https://www.google.com/search?q=https://Bensound.com/free-music-for-videos] | License code: DBBQE8ULZQOM0UUJ

“Under the Sea” and Into Slang School (S01/E05)

🐻 #BryanBuilt Podcast | Show Notes S01 E05: “Under the Sea” and Into Slang School Hosts: Chris Malanga & Superintendent Mark Rairigh Special Guests: Cast of The Little Mermaid 🎙️ Episode Summary This week, the podcast dives into the performing arts. While the demolition of the old Central building continues to change our landscape, the spirit of BHS musical theater is stronger than ever. We are joined by the cast of The Little Mermaid to discuss a historic milestone: this year marks the first time since the 1988–1989 school year that a BHS musical will be performed at a venue other than the Arts & Education building. In this episode, we explore the grit required to adapt a massive Disney production to the stage at New Hope Church and the teamwork fueling our student performers. We also provide critical district updates in the News Feed regarding busing and retirements, and then put Mark and Chris to the ultimate test in our brand-new segment, "Slang School." It’s an episode full of laughter, district history, and a firsthand look at how our students are maintaining excellence, no matter the venue. ⏱️ Episode Chapters: 00:00 🏁 Show Intro 01:20 📢 The #BryanBuilt News Feed 14:20 🧜‍♂️ The Deep Dive: Cast of "The Little Mermaid" 37:22 🎒 The Fun Segment: Slang School with Gabi & Bree 53:20 🏗️ Community Q&A: Construction Progress 57:30 🍎 Golden Bear Standout: Sara Nowaczyk & Niki Minor 🗞️ The #BryanBuilt News Feed Superintendent Mark Rairigh breaks down "The Big Three" updates: * Busing Expansion (2026-27): Reducing the "no-bus zone" from 1 mile to 1/2 mile, opening service to 130 new students. Mark explains the planning for the upcoming school year. * Legacy of Service: We honor three pillars of BHS: Steve Alspaugh (HS Principal, 21 years), Julie Taylor (Special Ed Director, 25 years), and Karen Meister (Guidance Counselor, 31 years) as they are all retiring at the end of the school year. Mark discusses the upcoming office restructuring as a result. * Mitchell Owens - OTCA Coach of the Year: Celebrating Coach Owens' milestone! With Bryan since 2008 and 457 career wins, his state recognition highlights our tennis program's excellence in the NWOAL. 🧜🏼‍♀️️ The Deep Dive: The Little Mermaid We welcome Emma Schlade, Noah Mills, Elleah Davis, and Director Mr. Ben Lupo to the studio. * The "Road" Production: For the first time in over 35 years, the BHS musical moves to a new venue. The cast discusses the grit required to adapt to a new location. * Event Details: 📅️ April 9 & 10 (7:00 PM) | April 11 (2:00 PM) 📍 New Hope Church 🎟️ Tickets available at BHS, the public library, or the door! * Legacy on Stage: Mr. Lupo shares how the cast has stepped up to meet the challenge of a new environment while maintaining the high standard of Bryan theater. 🎒 The Fun Segment: Slang School Class is in session! Junior High correspondents Gabi Malanga and Bree Herman join the show via video to see if the hosts are actually "locked in." Can they decode the modern-day dialect of the middle school hallways, or are Mark and Chris headed for a "Total Cheugy" failing grade? 🔔 📬 The #BryanBuilt Mailbag: Construction Progress We address a frequent community question: "Is the construction at the MS/HS still on track to be done within the year?" Mark provides a transparent update on the physical transformation of our campus and the timeline for completion. Submit your own questions at podcast.bryanschools.net 🏆 Golden Bear Standout: Sara Nowaczyk & Niki Minor We wrap up the show by celebrating two of our incredible Kindergarten teachers. We discuss the vital role they play in starting the educational journey for our youngest learners and the passion they bring to the classroom every single day. Connect With Us: * Podcast Website: podcast.bryanschools.net [https://www.google.com/search?q=http://podcast.bryanschools.net] * Social Media: Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X & TikTok Remember: Greatness isn't born, it's #BryanBuilt. 🐻🏆 Podcast Theme: Music by Bensound.com/free-music-for-videos [https://www.google.com/search?q=https://Bensound.com/free-music-for-videos] | License code: DBBQE8ULZQOM0UUJ

Breaking Ground and Breaking Records: Swimmer, Diver, or Bowler (S01/E04)

🐻 #BryanBuilt Podcast | Show Notes S01 E04: Breaking Ground and Breaking Records: Swimmer, Diver, or Bowler Hosts: Chris Malanga & Superintendent Mark Rairigh Special Guests: Winter State Qualifiers 🎙️ Episode Summary History is being unearthed—literally—at Bryan City Schools. This week, the #BryanBuilt Podcast celebrates a winter sports season that has redefined excellence for the Golden Bears. From the C.T. Branin Natatorium in Canton to HP Lanes in Columbus, our student-athletes have been representing the Purple & Gold on the biggest stages in Ohio. In this jam-packed episode, we bridge the gap between our storied past and our record-breaking present. We discuss the physical transformation as the Central building demolition officially begins, and we sit down with the individuals who are building a legacy of their own in the pool and on the lanes. ⏱️ Episode Chapters: 00:00 🏁 Show Intro 01:45 📢 The News Feed 09:25 🏊‍♂️ The Deep Dive - Winter State Qualifiers 09:25 Nora Kunsman 24:39 Girls Relay Teams 35:47 Griffin Boehm 41:58 Boys Relay Teams 52:53 State Divers 01:04:27 Zoey Gillett - State Bowler 01:22:21 🎮 The Fun Segment: Swimmer, Diver, or Bowler? 01:33:23 🏀️ Community Q&A 01:40:00 🐻 Golden Bear Standout 🗞️ The #BryanBuilt News Feed Superintendent Mark Rairigh joins Chris Malanga for a deep dive into district logistics and progress. A&E Demolition Kickoff: We discuss the historic milestone that took place this past Tuesday as the demolition of the Central building began. 2027-28 School Calendar: We take a long-range look at the future, explaining the district's commitment to advanced planning for our families. Calamity Day Count: We address the question on every student’s mind as we provide the official status of our hours and what it means for the remainder of the school year. 🏊‍♂️ The Deep Dive - Winter State Athletes Nora Kunsman joins us to discuss her state championship in the 50 Free and her 4th place finish in the 100 Free, breaking her own school records in the process. We welcome the Girls 200 Medley and 200 Freestyle relays, as well as the Boys 200 Free, 200 Medley, and 400 Free relay teams. We break down the 10th-place state finish for the boys and the incredible teamwork required to compete at this level. Griffin Boehm discusses his 20th-place finish in the 100 Backstroke and the mental preparation needed. All-Ohio diver Ethan Bailey (3rd place) and freshman Kamryn Mills discuss the pressure of diving and Bailey’s new career-best score of 415.15. District Champion Zoey Gillett breaks down her massive 697 series that led her to the state tournament. We also discuss the historic season, including an NWOAL title and the first-ever male state qualifier in program history, Noah Mills .🎮 The Fun Segment: Swimmer, Diver, or Bowler? In our new game, we run through a list of 10 legendary athletes. Can Mark distinguish between a world-class swimmer, a diving icon, and a bowling legend based on name alone? From Michael "The Baltimore Bullet" Phelps to the "I AM!" energy of Pete Weber, this segment is a must-listen. 📬 The #BryanBuilt Mailbag: The 1917 Floor Based on a tip from a former custodian, we unearthed the original 1917 gym floor hidden beneath layers of modern surfacing at the A&E. Mark tells the story and the district's exciting plans to salvage this century-old hardwood. Submit your own questions at podcast.bryanschools.net 🏆 Golden Bear Standout: Coach Makenzie Luce We wrap up the show celebrating Makenzie Luce being named the Ohio Division II Swim Coach of the Year. We discuss the culture she has instilled in this program and what this honor means for BCS. 🔗️ Connect With Us: Official BCS Website: bryanschools.net Podcast Submissions: podcast.bryanschools.net Social Media: Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X and TikTok Remember: Greatness isn't born, it's #BryanBuilt. 🐻🏆 Podcast Theme: Music by Bensound.com/free-music-for-videos | License code: DBBQE8ULZQOM0UUJ

The Toastie Truth, Athletic Deep Dives & The Higher-Lower Showdown (S01/E03)

🐻 #BryanBuilt Podcast | Show NotesS01 E03: 🧀 The Toastie Truth, Athletic Deep Dives & The Higher-Lower Showdown Hosts: Chris Malanga & Superintendent Mark Rairigh Special Guest: Nathan Keel, Athletic Director In this episode, we celebrate being officially 100 days smarter! We discuss Kindergarten and Preschool registration, preview a busy March calendar, and welcome Athletic Director Nathan Keel for a deep dive into winter sports and a preview of spring athletics. Plus, the gloves come off in our first-ever "Higher or Lower" challenge, and we finally reveal the legendary Cheese Toastie recipe. ⏱️ Episode Chapters: 00:00 🏁 Show Intro: Celebrating 100 days and a visit from Zero the Hero.  01:08 📢 The News Feed: * Future Bears: Details on the upcoming Kindergarten and Preschool registration and Parent Meeting. * March Milestones: Highlighting CEO Day, Grandparents Day, and the circus-themed Right to Read Week. * The Arts: Upcoming music performances. * Spring Break: A look ahead to spring break. 11:23 👟 The Deep Dive: Athletic Update with Nathan Keel. Recapping NWOAL Bowling titles, Wrestling momentum, and the "Relentless" mindset of our athletes.  28:41 📊 The Fun Segment: Higher or Lower! Chris and Mark battle over district data, from ACT scores to the number of chocolate milks served weekly.  47:57 🥪 Community Q&A: The legendary Cheese Toastie recipe reveal.  53:25 🐻 Golden Bear Standout: Honoring Kam Houk, 2nd Grade teacher, for being named the CORAS Elementary Educator of the Year.  👟 The Deep Dive: Relentless Golden Bears Athletic Director Nathan Keel joins us to discuss the "relentless" spirit of Bryan Athletics and managing a multi-season program: * The Winter Wrap-Up: Celebrating the Girls' Bowling team (3x NWOAL Champs!) and Wrestling and Basketball momentum entering tournament play. * Spring Transition: What goes into the seasonal transition for Baseball, Softball, Boys Tennis, and Track. * Fast Five: Does Keel prefer pizza or hot dog? What’s his go-to walk-up song? How would he describe Golden Bear athletes in one word? 📊 The Fun Segment: Higher or Lower? The gloves come off as Chris challenges Mark for the title of #BryanBuilt Brainiac. In this fast-paced game, they challenge each other on everything from academic achievements to cafeteria cravings: * ACT Excellence: How many seniors hit that elite 30+ score last year? * The Digital Footprint: With a one-to-one Chromebook initiative, how many Google accounts are active district-wide? * The Library Stacks: You won't believe the total volume of books housed in our school libraries. * The Chocolate Milk Metric: We reveal the staggering number of chocolate milks served to our students every week. 💡 The Brainiac Results: Check here (http://bit.ly/4rvT4eC [http://bit.ly/4rvT4eC]) for the "Cheat Sheet" to see if you beat Chris and Mark's scores! 🥪 Community Mailbag The wait is over! The legendary Bryan City Schools Cheese Toastie recipe is finally discussed, including the bread, cheese, "secret ingredient" and oven-baked technique that creates its signature crunch and melty center. 📷️ P.S. If you make them at home, tag us in a photo! 🐻 Golden Bear Standout A massive congratulations to Kam Houk, 2nd Grade teacher, for being named the CORAS Elementary Educator of the Year! Kam’s dedication to literacy and her students embodies what it means to be #BryanBuilt. 🗓️ Important Dates to Circle:  * March 1: Choir & HS Band Concerts  * March 2: 2026 Registration Opens  * March 4: Kindergarten Parent Meeting (5:00 PM)  * March 9–12: Right to Read Week  * March 11: CEO Day & Grandparents Day  * March 13–22: Spring Break 🔗 Links & Resources: * District Calendar: bryanschools.net/calendars [https://www.bryanschools.net/calendars/district-calendar] * Athletics Updates: bryansports.com [http://bryansports.com/] * Podcast Website & Question Form: podcast.bryanschools.net [https://www.google.com/search?q=http://podcast.bryanschools.net] * Feedback: Email Chris Malanga at cmalanga@bryanschools.net [cmalanga@bryanschools.net] Podcast Theme: Music by Bensound.com/free-music-for-videos [https://www.google.com/search?q=https://Bensound.com/free-music-for-videos] | License code: DBBQE8ULZQOM0UUJ Closing Thought: Remember, greatness isn't born, it’s #BryanBuilt. 🐻🏆

Ice, Ice, Bryan: The Science of a Snow Day (S01/E02)

🐻 #BryanBuilt Podcast | Show NotesS01 E02: Ice, Ice, Bryan: The Science of a Snow Day Hosts: Chris Malanga & Superintendent Mark Rairigh Special Guest: Ryan Eberly, Director of Transportation 🎙️ Episode Summary In this episode, we dive into the "January Grind." From the science behind snow day cancellations to the massive logistics of moving 800+ students daily, we explore how the district stays mobile during an Ohio winter. Plus, we celebrate School Counselor Appreciation Week, get the latest construction updates, and put Superintendent Rairigh in the hot seat for a winter-themed musical challenge. ❄️ The Deep Dive: The Science of a Snow Day Director of Transportation Ryan Eberly pulls back the curtain on the district's 59-square-mile transportation web. We discuss: * The 5:30 AM Decision: How the "Go/No-Go" call is made during a storm. * Safety First: The reality of "red light violators" and the tech keeping students safe. * By the Numbers: Our buses have already traveled over 93,000 miles this school year! ⏱️ Episode Chapters: 00:00 🪝️ Show Intro: Trading holiday cheer for snow plows and 5:00 AM alarms. 01:28 📢 The News Feed: * Construction Update: Machinery is moving into the Career Tech classroom; gym floor installation is set for March; and the final phase for the Arts & Ed building begins March 1st. * Counselor Appreciation: Honoring the "unsung heroes" across the district during School Counselor Appreciation Week – at Bryan Elementary, Mrs. Huard and Mrs. Schroeder; at Bryan Middle School Mrs. Ruffer; at Bryan High School, Mrs. Bassett, Mr. Glecker and Mrs. Meister. * #BryanBuilt License Plates: Nathan Gilbert’s petition drive for official Bryan plates is nearing its goal—$25 of every plate sold will go to the Student Assistance Fund. * Hometown Sweethearts: A special social media highlight for local couples starting February 1st. 09:46 🚌 The Deep Dive: The Science of a Snow Day. Ryan Eberly breaks down the "puzzle" of managing 40+ routes, the specific criteria for delays and closings, and exactly how the 5:30 AM "Go/No-Go" call is made when the snow starts falling. 32:35 🎵 The Fun Segment: Name That Tune, Winter Edition! Mark tries to identify winter classics from Frozen to Vanilla Ice. 41:42 📬 Community Q&A: Will we be in school until June? Mark explains the state’s hourly requirements and where Bryan currently stands. 48:47 🐻 Golden Bear Standout: Honoring the entire Custodial Crew led by Ned Ruffer for their relentless work keeping lots and sidewalks clear. 🗓️ Important Dates to Circle: * February: Hometown Sweethearts social media highlights. * Feb 2–6: School Counselor Appreciation Week. * Mid-February: Career Tech machinery installation. * March 1: Expected start date for Arts & Ed demolition. * May 22: Scheduled last day of school. 🔗 Links & Resources: * Podcast Website & Question Form: podcast.bryanschools.net [https://www.google.com/search?q=http://podcast.bryanschools.net] * Sign the License Plate Petition: https://form.jotform.com/260205021127136) [https://form.jotform.com/260205021127136]  * Bryan License Plate Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1AaGrQvnJx/ [https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1AaGrQvnJx/]  * District Calendar: https://www.bryanschools.net/calendars/district-calendar [https://www.bryanschools.net/calendars/district-calendar]  * Feedback: Email Chris Malanga at cmalanga@bryanschools.net [cmalanga@bryanschools.net] * Episode Transcript: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1DU7T9dBkW-m3HHCscqlC0aBdyDsbxdMb1u8HSqVa3AQ/edit?tab=t.0 [https://docs.google.com/document/d/1DU7T9dBkW-m3HHCscqlC0aBdyDsbxdMb1u8HSqVa3AQ/edit?tab=t.0] Golden Bear Standout: A massive thank you to our Custodial Staff. You are the reason we can safely get back into the buildings after a storm. We see your hard work in the cold and the dark!  Podcast Theme: Music by Bensound.com/free-music-for-videos [https://www.google.com/search?q=https://Bensound.com/free-music-for-videos] | License code: DBBQE8ULZQOM0UUJ Closing Thought: Remember, greatness isn't born, it’s #BryanBuilt. 🐻🏆