The Inside Wayzata Podcast

Wayzata Public Schools
  • 5.0 (5)
  • Education

Inside Wayzata is your exclusive backstage pass to Wayzata Public Schools! We dive deep into the heart of our district, featuring insightful conversations with students, teachers, administrators, and community members. Discover innovative programs, celebrate inspiring achievements, and gain insights into the important topics and vibrant voices dedicated to creating an exceptional learning environment for each and every student in Wayzata Public Schools.

  1. 6h ago

    Prepared, Not Scared: Talking School Safety | The Inside Wayzata Podcast

    This episode focuses on how Wayzata Public Schools approaches safety as more than just locks and hardware. Assistant Director of Safety and Emergency Management Meg Soultz shares how her background in EMS, law enforcement, and school resource work shapes a broader, relationship-driven approach to keeping students and staff safe. We discuss how preparedness, staff training, family communication, and community trust all work together to create a school environment that is both secure and welcoming. 00:00 - Meet Meg and the district's school safety mission 02:34 - Tactical paramedic work and the move into law enforcement 06:03 - Safety as more than hardware, locks, and enforcement 07:51 - “Prepared and not scared” as the district's safety mindset 15:04 - Visitor systems, procedures, and behind-the-scenes preparedness 20:17 - Using clear response frameworks like standard response protocol 24:55 - What families should expect during an emergency 28:14 - Why the whole district is invested in student safety

  2. Sep 15

    Why This Superintendent Says the Best Schools Are Built Together

    Dr. Robb Virgin reflects on his first months as superintendent of Wayzata, the energy of the new school year, and what has stood out most as he’s gotten to know the district. The conversation focuses on culture, operations, student belonging, and the major referendum work shaping the district’s next chapter. In this episode, Dr. Virgin shares why Wayzata's strong systems, commitment to improvement, and community-wide buy-in make this such an energizing place to lead. He also opens up about the personal values that guide him, from family and presence to gratitude and staying grounded in the moment. 00:00 - Welcome to the episode and why this back-to-school conversation matters 01:19 - Back to school 06:17 - The district’s hunger to improve without becoming complacent 09:02 - What drives Robb 15:04 - Minnesota weather as a metaphor for unpredictable leadership 17:05 - What families really want for their kids: belonging, challenge, belief 25:26 - Balancing district success with hunger for growth 27:29 - What’s happening behind the scenes with referendum planning 31:08 - The most exciting part is creating better spaces for people 32:14 - Dr. Virgin’s message to families at the start of the year

  3. Sep 9

    Passion and Purpose: The Heart of Coaching | The Inside Wayzata Podcast

    In this episode of The Inside Wayzata Podcast, new high school coaches Sara Ridley, Derrin Lamker, and Jean Viardin discuss their motivations for coaching, their coaching philosophies, and the expectations associated with being part of the Wayzata community. They explore the balance between winning and losing, the importance of resilience, and the role of youth sports in developing well-rounded athletes. The conversation highlights the significance of community involvement and the coaches' commitment to fostering a positive environment for student-athletes. This conversation explores the multifaceted world of youth sports, emphasizing the importance of diverse participation, the balance between academics and athletics, and the definition of success in sports. The speakers share insights on preventing burnout among young athletes, the role of community support in fostering sports programs, and the excitement surrounding the upcoming season. They highlight the need for a holistic approach to coaching that prioritizes student well-being and enjoyment in sports. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to New Coaches 03:14 Motivation Behind Coaching 05:57 Coaching Philosophy and Style 09:05 Expectations of Trojan Pride 11:54 Balancing Wins and Losses 14:59 Expectations of Success in Competition 17:58 Evaluating Program Fit 20:46 Youth Sports and Specialization 25:22 The Importance of Diverse Sports Participation 30:26 Balancing Academics and Athletics 35:32 Defining Success in Sports 38:05 Anticipating the Upcoming Season 43:40 The Spectacle of High School Sports

  4. Aug 28

    Leadership, Belonging & Kindergarten Readiness - Back to School | The Inside Wayzata Podcast

    In this episode of The Inside Wayzata Podcast, we talk with Jenny Berg, principal at North Woods Elementary, and Jen Fuzzey, associate principal, about the excitement and challenges of back-to-school season. They share how North Woods builds a strong sense of belonging for students, staff, and families, what kindergarten readiness really means, and how the school supports children through those first important weeks of the year. You’ll also hear about the new associate principal role, communication with families, and the culture that makes North Woods such a special place to learn and grow. Whether you’re a parent of a new kindergartner, a longtime elementary family, or simply curious about what makes a school community thrive, this conversation offers a warm look at leadership, routines, and the start of a brand-new school year. 00:00  Welcome to Inside Wayzata 00:41 Meet Jenny Berg and Jen Fuzzey 04:35 Building North Woods from the ground up 06:00 Jen’s new role as associate principal 09:48 What back-to-school feels like 12:08 How students and parents experience the first weeks 16:02 What kindergarten readiness really means 22:10 How fifth graders get ready for middle school 25:26 Creating belonging through Pack Pride and culture 28:03 Rethinking technology and iPad use 32:56 How families stay connected with the school 35:23 PTO, volunteering, and school community events 36:58 Favorites 41:15 What they’re looking forward to this year

  5. Aug 26

    How Middle Schools Help Build Confidence in Students | The Inside Wayzata Podcast

    This episode of The Inside Wayzata Podcast focuses on what makes the middle school transition work, from sixth grade welcome events to advisory, student leadership, and day zero. East Middle School principal Meg Bennett and West Middle School principal Ryan Carlson share how they build confidence, independence, and a sense of belonging for incoming students. They also talk through the new middle school schedule, exploratory electives, routines at home, and how families can support students as the school year begins. 00:00 Why middle school transition matters and what this episode covers 03:13 Starting sixth grade transition work in winter and spring 07:03 Day zero, hallway support, and going slow to go fast 10:25 The web of support around every middle school student 18:56 Student agency, my time, and teachers as facilitators 22:27 Preparing for the pressure and permanence of high school 29:48 Advice for families: routines, structure, and communication 32:29 Advice for students: embrace the adventure and ask for help 34:48 What they would tell their sixth-grade selves

  6. Aug 25

    Back to School at Wayzata High School | The Inside Wayzata Podcast

    In this episode of The Inside Wayzata Podcast, we go inside Wayzata High School to talk about what back-to-school season really looks like for students, staff, and families. From freshman orientation day to student support teams, Link Crew, academic mentors, and a redesigned math curriculum, this conversation highlights the many ways the school is building a supportive, engaging, and student-centered experience. Our guests share how the first days of school are designed to help ninth graders feel welcomed and prepared, why student-to-student support is such an important part of the high school culture, and how staff are working together to make sure every student has what they need to succeed. We also take a closer look at the new math curriculum and how it’s helping make learning more relevant, practical, and hands-on. 00:00 Intro and welcome 00:42 What the first week of school feels like 02:08 Why freshman orientation matters 07:54 What Link Crew is and how it works 10:34 The student support model 14:18 How teachers connect students to help 16:36 The power of student mentors 24:33 New math curriculum explained 29:02 Building thinking classrooms 33:20 Rapid fire favorites and traditions 37:20 Where families and students can go for support

  7. Jun 16

    Post-Referendum: What Comes Next?

    In this episode, we explore the planning, development, and community impact of new school projects post-referendum with Chace Anderson. Discover how strategic property purchases and community support are shaping the future of education infrastructure. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Upcoming Projects 00:56 Property Purchase and Vision for Future Schools 02:53 Community Support and District Planning 03:59 Design and Construction Timeline 10:58 Traffic and Infrastructure Considerations 19:40 Expected Opening and Community Impact 28:45 Reflections on Building New Schools 31:59 Naming and Future Plans for Schools

  8. May 28

    Lessons from Three Retiring Principals: A Journey Through Education

    This episode features three retiring elementary school principals, Mary McKasy of Gleason Lake, Karen Keffeler of Meadow Ridge, and Ross Williams of Sunset Hill, they share insights on their careers, the evolution of education, and their personal journeys. Discover their motivations, memorable moments, and advice for future educators. 00:00 Introduction of Guests and Setting the Scene 01:12 Favorite School Lunches and Last Meals 02:01 Deciding to Retire: Personal Reflections 03:17 What Keeps Principals Coming Back Year After Year 09:29 Experiencing Growth in the School Community 20:24 Changes in Classroom Teaching Over the Years 23:39 Building Trust with Staff, Students, and Families 27:29 Advice for Successors and Final Words of Wisdom 31:39 Surprising Aspects of Being a Principal 36:11 Summing Up a Career in Education 37:46 Reflections on Retirement and Future Plans

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About

Inside Wayzata is your exclusive backstage pass to Wayzata Public Schools! We dive deep into the heart of our district, featuring insightful conversations with students, teachers, administrators, and community members. Discover innovative programs, celebrate inspiring achievements, and gain insights into the important topics and vibrant voices dedicated to creating an exceptional learning environment for each and every student in Wayzata Public Schools.

Information

  • Creator
    Wayzata Public Schools
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    33
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Inside Wayzata Podcast
  • Show Website
    The Inside Wayzata Podcast

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