Crossing The Alameda

Bronco Class of 1991
  • 5.0 (6)
  • CAREERS

Join Gen Xer's from the Santa Clara University Class of 1991 as they take you on a life adventure from the Analog Era to the Digital Era.Each episode revisits our SCU days and explores the winding paths we’ve taken since. Crossing Alameda is both a campus callback and a metaphor for moving forward, together. Expect plenty of laughter, along with thoughtful, vulnerable reflections on the lives we’ve built since.

  1. 2D AGO

    Crossing The Alameda - featuring Jon Berthelot

    In this episode of Crossing the Alameda, the crew reconnects with Jon Berthelot, a Santa Clara University alumnus from the class of 1991. Jon shares his journey from Louisiana to California, his experiences as an English major, and the lasting impact of his professors. He reminisces about his time in the residence halls, the 1989 earthquake, and his career in education. Jon discusses the joys of family life in Louisiana, his passions outside of work, and the importance of maximizing time with loved ones. The conversation is filled with laughter, memories, and insights into the unique culture of Louisiana, especially during Mardi Gras. Chapters 00:00 Welcome to Crossing the Alameda 02:00 Introducing Jon Berthelot 02:58 Memories from the Fourth Floor of Swig 04:03 The Impact of English Studies 06:34 Professors Who Shaped My Journey 08:02 Life After Santa Clara: Unexpected Paths 10:14 Cultural Experiences and College Life 12:40 Returning to Campus: A Walk Down Memory Lane 15:53 Post-Graduation Expectations vs. Reality 18:26 The 1989 Earthquake Experience 21:30 Career in Education: A Passion for Teaching 22:45 Journey in Education: From University to Independent School 25:35 Connecting with Students: The Role of Admissions 28:47 Finding Your Path: Advice for Young People 32:17 Life in Louisiana: Culture and Community 39:08 Family Ties: Raising Children in New Orleans 42:40 Overcoming Challenges: Loss and Resilience 44:14 Passions Beyond Work: Hobbies and Interests 47:06 Shooting Clays and Shotgun Talk 48:14 A Day in New Orleans: Food and Fun 52:30 Fast Five: Quickfire Questions 56:10 Advice to My Younger Self 58:28 Looking Forward: Travel and New Experiences 58:54 Reunion Memories and Connections

    1h 5m

  2. 2D AGO

    Crossing The Alameda - featuring Laura Helzerman Johansen

    In this episode of Crossing the Alameda, host Charles Michelet, Kari Morin, Mike Kline and the disappearing A.J. Riebli reconnect with Santa Clara University alumni, Laura Helzerman-Johansen. They discuss their college memories, life after graduation, the importance of community and support, and the challenges faced by Laura's daughter Clara, who has a degenerative retinal condition. The conversation highlights the journey of life, the significance of friendships, and the impact of experiences at Santa Clara University. In this engaging conversation, Laura Helzerman Johansen reflects on her journey from office life to real estate, sharing nostalgic memories of college and early career experiences. She discusses the evolution of her parenting role as her daughters grow more independent, the joy of traveling with family, and the importance of community engagement through volunteering. Laura emphasizes the value of building relationships and cherishing family connections, offering heartfelt advice to her younger self about the significance of community. The conversation concludes with a fun 'Fast Five' segment, where Laura shares her favorite breakfast, karaoke song, and more. Chapters 00:00 Welcome to Crossing the Alameda 01:42 Introducing Laura Helzerman-Johansson 03:58 Memories of Santa Clara University 06:44 Choosing Santa Clara University 09:43 Campus Life and Friendships 18:02 Life After Graduation and Career Journey 21:05 Navigating Life's Choices: Balancing Family and Career 24:46 The Journey of Parenthood: Supporting Children’s Growth 28:21 Reflections on College Life and Friendships 32:53 Facing Challenges: Clara's Journey with Vision Impairment 38:29 Shifting Roles: Parenting Adult Children 48:44 Embracing New Adventures: Traveling with Family 50:17 Planning Future Visits and Family Connections 51:49 Memorable Family Travels and Experiences 55:38 The Impact of Community and Volunteer Work 01:01:37 Building Relationships and Cherishing Family 01:05:34 Reflections on Life and Advice for the Future 01:12:51 Spring Adventures and Reunions 01:15:03 Reconnecting with Old Friends 01:16:28 Shout Outs and Future Guests 01:17:49 Reflections on Family and Life Choices

    1h 19m

  3. 2D AGO

    Crossing The Alameda - featuring Beth Riffel Cavenaugh

    In this episode of Crossing the Alameda, hosts Mike 'Kliner' Kline, Kari Morin, Charles Michelet and A.J. Riebli reconnect with the class of 1991, featuring guest Beth Riffel-Cavanaugh. The conversation explores Beth's journey from Santa Clara to her career in nursing and hospice care, her experiences in the Jesuit Volunteer Corps, and her insights on life, death, and the importance of relationships. The discussion also touches on the impact of narrative medicine and the transitions of life as children grow up and leave home. The episode concludes with light-hearted Fast Five questions, showcasing Beth's personality and humor. Chapters 00:00 Reconnecting with Old Friends 03:16 Beth's Journey to Santa Clara 05:51 Memories from the Dorm Days 08:36 Reflections on College Life 11:26 Life After Santa Clara: A New Path 14:11 The Transition to Nursing 17:06 Experiences in Hospice Care 19:58 Writing and Sharing Wisdom 22:33 Navigating Family Dynamics and Death 25:53 Navigating Family Dynamics in End-of-Life Care 28:03 The Beauty of Death and Dying 30:29 Embracing Life Transitions and Empty Nest Syndrome 31:39 The Intersection of Narrative Medicine and Empathy 35:49 The Courage to Pursue New Opportunities 39:01 Reflections on a Good Life 41:50 Fast Five: Fun and Personal Insights

    49 min

  4. FEB 10

    Crossing The Alameda - featuring Sage Baker

    In this episode of 'Crossing the Alameda, hosts Mike Kline, Charles Michelet and A.J. Riebli reconnect with SCU Class of 1991 member, Sage Baker. The conversation explores Sage's journey from college memories at Santa Clara University to her diverse career in advertising and academia. They discuss nostalgic experiences, influential professors, and the significance of personal growth and unexpected life changes. Sage shares insights on her transition to teaching at Texas State and reflects on her 30-year marriage, highlighting the importance of friendship and shared experiences. In this engaging conversation, Sage Baker and the hosts explore the unpredictable nature of career paths, the importance of critical thinking, and the value of embracing new experiences. They reflect on their personal journeys, the lessons learned along the way, and the significance of adaptability in a rapidly changing world. Sage shares her aspirations for the future and emphasizes the importance of running one's own race without comparing oneself to others. The discussion also includes lighthearted moments in the 'Fast and Fun Five' segment, where personal insights and humorous anecdotes are shared. Chapters 00:00 Welcome to Crossing the Alameda 02:42 Introducing Sage Baker 04:07 Memories from Santa Clara 07:35 Life After Santa Clara 11:08 Influential Professors 14:11 Nostalgic Connections to Santa Clara 19:44 The Rat Race Party 20:08 Sage's Journey Post-91 22:21 The Journey of Self-Discovery 26:41 Navigating the Advertising Landscape 30:14 The Birth of a Consultancy 33:48 Teaching and Mentorship at Texas State 39:15 Reflections on Life and Career 43:30 Embracing Uncertainty and New Experiences 47:01 Embracing the Journey of Teaching 49:32 The Importance of Individual Paths 53:23 Musical Memories and Influences 58:16 Aspirations and Creative Dreams 01:02:49 Reflections on Connections and Relationships 01:07:41 Gratitude and Looking Forward

    1h 11m

  5. FEB 3

    Crossing The Alameda - featuring Matthew Semansky

    In this episode of Crossing the Alameda, Charles Michelet, Mike 'Kliner' Kline, and A.J. Riebli reconnect with their classmate Matthew Semansky, reminiscing about their time at Santa Clara University. They share memorable experiences, favorite professors, and the impact of lacrosse on their college lives. Matt reflects on his career journey, parenting challenges, and his involvement with the Santa Clara Jesuit School of Theology. The conversation touches on the transition from college to adulthood, the importance of balancing work and play, and the lessons learned along the way. Chapters 00:00 Reconnecting with Old Friends 02:58 Memorable College Experiences 05:59 Influential Professors 08:55 Life in McLaughlin Hall 11:43 Fond Memories of Santa Clara 14:42 Transitioning to Life After Graduation 17:26 The Impact of Lacrosse 20:09 Career Journey and Family Life 23:14 Insights into Family Office Work 24:31 Exploring the Jesuit Tradition at Santa Clara University 29:00 Parenting Through Different Stages 34:49 Fun and Lighthearted Fast Five Questions 38:47 Career Aspirations and Reflections 41:14 Advice to My Younger Self

    47 min

  6. FEB 3

    Crossing The Alameda - featuring John Doherty and Steve Diess

    In this episode of Crossing the Alameda, hosts A.J. Riebli, Kari Morin, and Charles Michelet reconnect with Santa Clara University alumni John Doherty and Steve Diess. They share vivid memories from their college days, including humorous stories about their time at SCU, their experiences with professors, and the dynamics of their friendships that have lasted for decades. The conversation also delves into their career paths, including lobbying and actuarial science, and the life lessons they've learned along the way. As they reflect on their time at Santa Clara, they emphasize the importance of community, maintaining friendships, and the joy of reunions. The episode concludes with advice for current students and a look forward to future gatherings. Chapters 00:00 Welcome to Crossing the Alameda 04:17 Memorable Santa Clara Moments 09:13 Life at Lafayette House 11:50 Professors Who Made an Impact 15:33 ROTC and Life Lessons 17:10 Returning to Santa Clara 20:05 The Earthquake Experience 22:01 Career Paths: Lobbying and Actuarial Science 26:45 Navigating Post-Graduation Challenges 33:11 Career Transitions and Life Choices 37:50 Maintaining Lifelong Friendships 44:28 Fun and Fast Five: Personal Insights

    54 min

  7. FEB 3

    Crossing The Alameda - featuring Pat Hoey

    In this episode of Crossing the Alameda, A.J. Riebli, Mike Kline, and Charles Michelet reconnect with fellow Santa Clara University alumnus Pat Hoey from the class of 1991. They explore Pat's college memories, his journey through political economy, the influence of professors, and the impact of music and food on their experiences. The conversation shifts to Pat's career path, leadership roles, and the importance of networking. They also discuss family life, parenting adult children, and reflections on the 1989 earthquake. Pat shares valuable life lessons and advice for the next generation, while looking forward to their upcoming reunion. Chapters 00:00 Reconnecting with the Past 03:13 Memorable College Experiences 06:12 The Impact of Professors 08:51 The Journey of Political Economy 11:37 Nostalgic Songs and Smells 14:33 The Sandwich King Legacy 17:20 College Shenanigans and Life Lessons 22:43 Nostalgic Reflections on Campus Life 25:04 Life Lessons Learned After Graduation 27:33 Memories of the 1989 Earthquake 34:30 Career Journey and Unexpected Detours 42:10 Daily Life and Personal Insights 44:33 Overcoming Challenges: The Marathon Experience 49:26 Finding New Passions: From Running to Peloton 51:15 Navigating Empty Nesting: Life with Adult Children 01:01:20 Life Lessons: Advice for the Next Generation

    1h 6m

  8. JAN 27

    Crossing The Alameda - featuring Jackie Meek Brown and Scotty Brown

    In this episode of Crossing the Alameda,the host reconnect with Santa Clara University alumni Jackie and Scotty Brown. They share their college memories, including funny and embarrassing stories, the influence of professors, and how their experiences shaped their lives. The conversation explores their personal journeys after graduation, the impact of Santa Clara on their lives, and the importance of maintaining friendships. They also reflect on advice they would give their younger selves and discuss their current aspirations. Takeaways This podcast is a chance to reconnect with old friends. College memories often include both embarrassing and funny stories. Influential professors can leave a lasting impact on students. Life after graduation can take unexpected turns. Maintaining friendships from college is important for personal growth. Reunions provide an opportunity to reflect on shared experiences. Taking risks can lead to rewarding life changes. Family and community play a significant role in personal happiness. It's essential to stay connected to one's roots and alma mater. Advice to younger selves often includes being more open and taking chances. Titles Reconnecting with Santa Clara Classmates Memorable College Stories Sound Bites "This isn't just a podcast." "We ran a speakeasy in Dunn." "I got to go up on stage." Chapters 00:00 Reconnecting with Old Friends 02:58 Memorable College Stories 05:39 Influential Professors and Lessons Learned 08:32 Life After College: Career Paths and Family 11:28 Navigating Life's Challenges 14:12 The Impact of COVID-19 on Family Dynamics 31:42 Parenting Insights and Life Lessons 33:15 Pursuing Passions in Retirement 35:37 Culinary Adventures and Creativity 37:26 Connection to Santa Clara University 43:40 Advice to Our Younger Selves 47:49 Fast Five Fun Questio

    55 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

Join Gen Xer's from the Santa Clara University Class of 1991 as they take you on a life adventure from the Analog Era to the Digital Era.Each episode revisits our SCU days and explores the winding paths we’ve taken since. Crossing Alameda is both a campus callback and a metaphor for moving forward, together. Expect plenty of laughter, along with thoughtful, vulnerable reflections on the lives we’ve built since.

Information

  • Creator
    Bronco Class of 1991
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    19
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Bronco Class of 1991
  • Show Website
    Crossing The Alameda