Northern Attitude

Episode 16 Teaser Trailer: Golf Shot of the Week

Before the full conversation drops Monday morning, we’re giving you a sneak peek into the first eight minutes of our sit-down with Webster Thomas alumni David Mitchell (’24) and Michael Dowden (’23). If you remember our legendary "lost pod" from back in March—the one the recording gods unfortunately swallowed whole—we promised to run it back. We dive into a nostalgic look at yearbooks in general, what they mean to the young men, and why the arrival of this year's edition earned the title of the "Golf Shot of the Week" (that one perfect element that keeps you coming back to the game). Grab a quick coffee, sample a taste of the grit and heart heading your way, and get ready for the full episode to hit your feed first thing Monday morning!

Joey and Danny Smith: "I Need to See They Care"

Please note: this is our second episode with the explicit tag! Danny tried, but a true roast master has to keep it real. In this episode of Northern Attitude, Mitch and Steve sit down with brothers Joey and Danny Smith for a raw, honest look at the modern high school experience through two very different lenses. Danny, a Webster Thomas alumnus (Class of 2023), opens up about his uphill battle to find his path through the traditional public school structure. Meanwhile, his younger brother Joey, voted Most Artistic by the class of '26, shares what he needs from his educators today to feel motivated, engaged, and how he found it in Todd Stahl's room. Together, the four dig deep and discuss a universal challenge: the breakdown of communication. From the anxiety of receiving constructive criticism to the art of giving it, this episode explores the friction that happens when feedback gets lost in translation—and how we can bridge the gap.

JoAnn Zaccardo: "Your Mom Understands"

This week on Northern Attitude, Steven Zaccardo takes the helm for a special, intimate conversation. While Mitch is away, the 'heart' of the pod's mission takes center stage as Steven sits down with a very special guest: his mother. Together, they explore the complex architecture of human connection—from the spark of initial chemistry to the delicate importance of timing in lifelong relationships. In a world that often feels cold, they find warmth in discussing the restorative power of family and the unmatched joy found in the sound of a grandchild’s laughter. It’s a reminder that at the intersection of mental health and education lies the wisdom of those who raised us. Grab a coffee and join us for a conversation about the things that truly matter.

Katie Epner: "Can't Hardly Wait"

What if you could take everything you know now and walk back through the front doors of Webster Thomas? This week, Mitch and Steven are joined by Class of 2012 alumni Katie Epner, the Director of Video Production at WXXI. In a raw and nostalgic conversation, we peel back the layers of the "high school hierarchy" to discuss what really matters once the tassels are turned. From the weight of losing classmates to the evolution of local radio, Katie shares how her journey from Webster to the forefront of public broadcasting was paved less by a degree and more by the relentless practice of her craft. In this episode, we discuss: * The "Cool Kid" Myth: Reframing our high school social structures through the lens of adulthood. * Education vs. Practice: Why a college degree might get you the interview, but your "grit" and portfolio get you the job. * Finding Clarity in Loss: A heartfelt look at how the death of classmates shaped our perspective on community and mental health. * For the Love of Media: Katie’s transition into the world of WXXI and her enduring passion for the airwaves. * The Rapid Fire: Favorite albums, Webster memories, and quick-hitting insights. Join us as we find some clarity in the cold.

Dr Chris Callahan: "That's Earned Dopamine"

In this episode, Steven and Mitch sit down with a true Webster Thomas blue blood: Dr. Chris Callahan, a student ('04 OG) and servant of the Thomas community for over a decade Chris’s journey isn’t just a career path; it’s a masterclass in growth and development. We trace his steps from D1 football fields and history lectures to the front lines of Special Education as a TA and teacher, eventually leading him to the Principal’s office and a Doctorate in Education. In this episode, we discuss: * The Webster Roots: The Thomas experiences that molded him and shaped his future. * The Educational Ladder: The transition from Special Ed TA to Building Principal. * Mindset & Leadership: Navigating the space between stimulus and response. * The Human Side: Balancing a high-level career with family and a sense of humor. It’s not all heavy lifting, though—expect plenty of laughs as we swap stories about the humor and fulfillment found in the daily grind, the importance of family, and the joy of being a DeWitt Road Panda Bear. Grab a coffee (black), get a workout in, and let’s grind our way towards some clarity.