’Mid the Pines Podcast

Ep. 038: Leading When It Matters Most: Lessons in Leadership with Dr. Richard Stone

What does it take to lead in high-stakes environments—and stay grounded in faith and purpose? In this episode of Mid the Pines, former Undersecretary for Health for the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) Dr. Rich Stone shares lessons from his career in military and national healthcare leadership, along with reflections on raising a Grove City graduate. From leading complex teams to making tough decisions during the COVID-19 pandemic, this conversation offers practical wisdom and encouragement for aspiring leaders.

Ep. 037: Time, Talent, and Tradition-Investing in the Place That Invested in You with Steve DeCaspers '97

In this episode of Mid the Pines, host Zach Jew ’11 sits down with Steve DeCaspers ’97, current Alumni Council President, to explore the lasting impact of alumni engagement at Grove City College. From personal reflections on his student experience to leading the Alumni Council today, Steve shares how graduates can stay meaningfully connected through their time, talent, and resources. Hear stories of mentorship, service, and generosity—and discover how even small steps can strengthen the Grove City community for generations to come. Whether you’re newly graduated or years removed, this conversation offers simple, meaningful ways to reconnect and make an impact.

Ep 036: 1,200 People. One Vision. How Great Leaders Make It Real with Barbara (Bentz '83) Staniscia

What does it take to align 1,200 people around a single vision? In this episode of Mid the Pines, Zach Jew sits down with Barbara (Bentz '83) Staniscia, President and General Manager of Bechtel Plant Machinery, Inc., to explore how great leaders turn vision into reality. From her Grove City roots to leading mission-critical work supporting the U.S. Navy, Barb shares practical insights on culture, purpose, and leading people through complexity.

Ep 035: From Psychology Major to Bank Executive: Jordyn (Taylor ’03) Kemats on Leadership, Being People-Forward, and Finding Your Path

In this episode, we sit down with Grove City College alumna Jordyn (Taylor ’03) Kemats, Executive Vice President of S&T Bank, to explore a vocational journey shaped by faith, leadership, and lifelong learning. From her beginnings as a psychology major to leading enterprise transformation in banking, Jordyn reflects on how calling often unfolds one step at a time. Together, we discuss leadership through change, decision‑making grounded in character, and the role of faith in navigating responsibility and growth—offering encouragement to students and professionals discerning their own paths.

Ep 034: Sesquicentennial Stories: 150 Years of Grove City College with Hilary (Lewis '09) Walczak

In this special sesquicentennial episode of 'Mid the Pines, our host Zach Jew ’11 sits down with Hilary (Lewis ’09) Walczak to explore the 150-year story of Grove City College. From the College’s founding in 1876 to the traditions that still shape campus life today, Hilary offers a unique perspective from the College Archives — highlighting the people, moments, and convictions that have defined Grove City across generations. The conversation also looks ahead to the 2026 sesquicentennial celebration and what it means for alumni, students, and friends of the College. Join us as we reflect on a legacy of faith, leadership, and enduring impact — and consider what the next 150 years might hold. **After this episode was recorded, we learned of the passing of Dr. Edwin P. “Doc” Arnold [https://www.gcc.edu/Home/News-Archive/News-Article/college-mourns-band-director-educator-edwin-p-doc-arnold] on March 16, 2026. Dr. Arnold served as longtime Director of Bands and Chair of the Music Department at Grove City College, and also held several senior administrative roles across campus. He was 80.