Western Wednesdays

Western Carolina University
  • 5.0 (4)
  • EDUCATION
  • UPDATED MONTHLY

Welcome to Western Wednesdays, the podcast edition! While Western Wednesdays have been around for 18 months, we’re excited to bring it to you in the world of podcasts. Every month we’ll be sitting down with alumni from all different backgrounds to talk about how WCU influenced them and their careers.

  1. APR 1

    Deep Roots, Lasting Impact ft. Frank and Becky Brown

    Frank and Becky Brown’s Western story is rooted in Cullowhee and continues through a lifetime of service. From meeting while working in Cherokee to their enduring commitment to WCU, their connection to this place and its people runs deep. Join us as they reflect on where they started and why giving back to Western still matters so much.

    51 min

  2. MAR 4

    A Voice for Students, A Leader for NC ft. Dawson Spencer

    This episode highlights Dawson Spencer, a two-time Western Carolina University graduate who now serves the state through his work with the NC Department of Public Safety. During his time at WCU, Dawson made an indelible impact as both a passionate tour guide and as SGA President, helping lead the university community through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic as the primary voice for students. His commitment to service, leadership, and the Catamount community continues to shine in his professional life today.

    56 min

  3. FEB 4

    Decades of Dedication ft. Steve White

    This episode shines a spotlight on Steve White, a proud WCU alumnus whose dedication to Catamount athletics has spanned decades. After serving many years as Western Carolina’s Sports Information Director, Steve remains a beloved and influential figure across campus. Whether behind the scenes or cheering from the sidelines, no one embodies the spirit and passion of WCU athletics quite like Steve White.

    59 min

  4. 12/03/2025

    Champion for Children, Catamount for Life ft. Celina Woods

    We close out the 2025 season with Celina Woods, a distinguished 1985 graduate of Western Carolina University, award-winning attorney, and passionate advocate for children. With nearly 20 WCU graduates in her family, Celina’s story is one of deep legacy, leadership, and lifelong commitment to service. As a member of the Alumni Board of Directors, she continues to give back to the university that helped shape her path.

    47 min

  5. 11/05/2025

    Naylor Nation ft. Larry Naylor

    This episode celebrates Larry Naylor, a proud Western Carolina University alumnus and retired Lt. Colonel whose legacy runs deep in Catamount country. With two brothers and two daughters also graduating from WCU, the Naylor family—affectionately known as Naylor Nation—represents generations of dedication, service, and love for Western. Larry shares stories from his military career and reflects on the powerful role WCU has played in his life and family.

    49 min

  6. 10/01/2025

    From SoCon to Show Time ft. Zebby Matthews

    This week, we catch up with Zebby Matthews, Minnesota Twins pitcher and proud Western Carolina University alumnus. Zebby reflects on his time as a Catamount, how WCU helped shape his path to professional baseball, and what life is like now in the big leagues. From strikeouts in Cullowhee to the mound in Minnesota, it’s a journey worth celebrating.

    58 min

  7. 09/03/2025

    Engineering Innovation ft. Monty Graham & Brett Banther

    This week, we spotlight Monty Graham and Brett Banther, two Western Carolina University alumni who now help lead innovation and industry collaboration at the WCU RAPID Center. As part of the College of Engineering and Technology, they share how their work supports advanced manufacturing and provides hands-on opportunities for students to solve real-world challenges.

    50 min

  8. 08/06/2025

    From Catamount to CEO ft. Jake Robinson

    In this episode, we feature Jake Robinson, a former WCU student-athlete, current member of the Board of Trustees, and CEO of Champion Credit Union. From the court to the boardroom, Jake shares how his experiences at Western Carolina University shaped his leadership journey and commitment to community-focused financial services.

    46 min
See All (40)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Welcome to Western Wednesdays, the podcast edition! While Western Wednesdays have been around for 18 months, we’re excited to bring it to you in the world of podcasts. Every month we’ll be sitting down with alumni from all different backgrounds to talk about how WCU influenced them and their careers.

Information

  • Creator
    Western Carolina University
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    40
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Western Wednesdays
  • Show Website
    Western Wednesdays