Explore every episode of the podcast Raff and the Meatballs - MUHS Podcast
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Saving the Best for Last: Fr. Daniel Kennedy, SJ Joins the Meatballs | 13 May 2026 | 00:42:41 | |
For the final episode of the 2025 - 2026 school year, Raff and the Meatballs may have saved the biggest guest for last. Joining the show is Rev. Daniel J. Kennedy, SJ, recently announced as the 12th president of Marquette University High School. Currently serving at University of Detroit Jesuit, Fr. Kennedy brings years of experience in Jesuit education, student leadership, retreats, and ministry. A native of Toledo, Ohio and graduate of Boston College and Saint Louis University, he shares his journey, his passion for accompanying young people, and what excites him most about joining the MUHS community. Tune in as the Meatballs close out the school year by getting to know the man who will help lead the next chapter on the Hilltop. | |||
| Mom Pod | 06 May 2026 | 00:38:28 | |
This week on Raff and the Meatballs, just in time for Mother’s Day, we turn the tables and bring in some very special guests—the moms of hosts Ronnie and Cruz. In this Mom Pod, we get a behind-the-scenes look at what it’s really like raising Meatballs. From childhood stories and family memories to a few laughs (and maybe a little friendly embarrassment), this episode is a fun and heartfelt reminder of the people who’ve been there since day one. A perfect listen as we celebrate the moms who make it all possible. | |||
| Physics, Philosophy, and the Stage: Ryan Serfas Joins the Meatballs | 29 Apr 2026 | 00:31:58 | |
This week on Raff and the Meatballs, we sit down with Ryan Serfas, a MUHS teacher whose classroom spans physics, astronomy, and choir and somehow still finds time for much more. A graduate of Marquette University and Fordham University, Ryan brings a unique blend of science, philosophy, and faith to his work with students. Beyond the classroom, he directs the MUHS spring musical, leads a nationally ranked chess club, and helps guide students through Kairos and other retreats. Currently in his seventh year of Jesuit formation, Ryan shares insights on teaching, vocation, and balancing a wide range of passions. Tune in for a thoughtful and wide-ranging conversation that connects science, the arts, and something deeper. | |||
| Physics, Philosophy, and the Stage: Ryan Serfas Joins the Meatballs | 29 Apr 2026 | 00:31:58 | |
This week on Raff and the Meatballs, we sit down with Ryan Serfas, a MUHS teacher whose classroom spans physics, astronomy, and choir and somehow still finds time for much more. A graduate of Marquette University and Fordham University, Ryan brings a unique blend of science, philosophy, and faith to his work with students. Beyond the classroom, he directs the MUHS spring musical, leads a nationally ranked chess club, and helps guide students through Kairos and other retreats. Currently in his seventh year of Jesuit formation, Ryan shares insights on teaching, vocation, and balancing a wide range of passions. Tune in for a thoughtful and wide-ranging conversation that connects science, the arts, and something deeper. | |||
| From Mr. Basketball to Real-World Impact | 22 Apr 2026 | 00:42:26 | |
This week on Raff and the Meatballs, we welcome Damon Keys, a member of the legendary 1990 undefeated state championship team at MUHS and Wisconsin’s Mr. Basketball that same year. A captain and standout for the Marquette Golden Eagles and a Wooden Award nominee, Damon’s story doesn’t stop on the court. After 25 years working at the House of Correction, he now dedicates his time to supporting students with behavioral challenges. From elite athletics to meaningful service, Damon shares a perspective shaped by leadership, resilience, and purpose. | |||
| From Latin to Legacy: Michael Dybicz Joins the Meatballs | 15 Apr 2026 | 00:36:54 | |
This week on Raff and the Meatballs, we welcome Michael Dybicz, a Cleveland Heights native and graduate of St. Ignatius High School, Notre Dame, and Cornell. Now in his 17th year at MUHS, Michael brings the ancient world to life as a Latin teacher, helping students connect language, history, and culture in meaningful ways. Tune in for a conversation that blends classics, teaching, and the enduring impact of a great educator on generations of Hilltoppers. | |||
| One Last Lesson: Fr. Marco Returns to the Meatballs | 25 Mar 2026 | 00:35:15 | |
This week on Raff and the Meatballs, we welcome back Rev. Michael J. Marco, SJ for his third appearance on the show—and in his final year at MUHS as the school’s 11th president. A proud Nebraska native and lifelong Huskers fan, Fr. Marco has spent more than 20 years in Jesuit education and has led MUHS since 2016 with a steady commitment to faith, leadership, and community. In this episode, he reflects on his time at the school, shares stories from along the way, and gives us a look at this year’s MUHS auction theme, Viva Marquette. Join us for a meaningful and memorable conversation as we hear from a leader who has helped shape the Hilltop for nearly a decade—and leaves a lasting impact on the MUHS community. | |||
| Voice of the Admirals: Aaron Sims Joins the Meatballs | 18 Mar 2026 | 00:40:39 | |
This week on Raff and the Meatballs, we welcome Aaron Sims, the longtime play-by-play voice of the Milwaukee Admirals. Originally from Inver Grove Heights, Minnesota, Aaron graduated from Winona State University and has been calling Admirals games since 2005, bringing the excitement of hockey to fans across Milwaukee and beyond. When he’s not behind the microphone at the rink, Aaron also enjoys playing saxophone, proving that his talents go well beyond the broadcast booth. Tune in as we talk hockey, broadcasting, and the stories that come with calling the game for nearly two decades. | |||
| From Hilltopper Championships to Healing Hands: Collin Weyer’s Journey | 11 Mar 2026 | 00:41:42 | |
This week on Raff and the Meatballs, we catch up with Collin Weyer, a 2010 MUHS grad who followed his older brothers to the Hilltop and made his own mark along the way. A three-sport athlete, Collin was part of the 2008 state championship baseball team and the 2009 state championship football team, while also leading freshman and Kairos retreats. After playing baseball at the University of Illinois Chicago, Collin earned his Doctorate in Physical Therapy from UW–Madison, met his wife while running a half marathon, and eventually made his way to Charleston, South Carolina. Today, he is a manager and part owner of a private practice on Daniel Island, serves at St. Clare of Assisi Catholic Church, and is the proud dad of two boys, Townsend and Wells. Tune in for a conversation about championships, faith, family, and building a life far from home while staying rooted in Hilltopper values. | |||
| Kicking It at Notre Dame: Erik Schmidt’s Next Chapter | 04 Mar 2026 | 00:34:37 | |
This week on Raff and the Meatballs, we catch up with Erik Schmidt, a 2025 MUHS graduate who has taken his football talents to the next level. After originally committing to the University of Wisconsin, Erik flipped his commitment and is now playing football for the University of Notre Dame, where he competes at the highest level of college athletics. Join us as Erik reflects on his MUHS roots, the college recruiting journey, the transition to life as a student-athlete at Notre Dame, and what it takes to compete on one of the biggest stages in college football. | |||
| From Chicago to the Hilltop: Vince Kostos Talks Coaching and Cubs | 25 Feb 2026 | 00:38:33 | |
This week on Raff and the Meatballs, we welcome Vince Kostos, a 17-year veteran at MUHS who has coached just about everything — football, golf, baseball, and soccer — bringing steady leadership to every season. A Loyola University graduate and Chicago native, Vince proudly carries his die-hard loyalty to all things Chicago sports wherever he goes. Tune in as we talk coaching across multiple sports, what keeps him energized after nearly two decades at MUHS, and which Chicago team has caused him the most emotional damage over the years. | |||
| Jay Sorgi Joins the Meatballs: From Lambeau to the Larger Story | 18 Feb 2026 | 00:38:19 | |
This week on Raff and the Meatballs, we welcome Jay Sorgi, a 1994 MUHS graduate and familiar face to Wisconsin sports fans as a longtime studio anchor for the Green Bay Packers. Jay spent 22 years with WTMJ, covering some of the biggest moments in sports before shifting his focus to a different kind of storytelling. Today, he writes and reports for national Catholic media outlets, bringing the same curiosity and clarity to faith-based stories from around the country. Tune in for a conversation that bridges sports, storytelling, faith, and a career that’s taken some meaningful turns along the way. | |||
| Scott Ford Talks Hockey: From the Admirals to the NHL | 11 Feb 2026 | 00:37:26 | |
This week on Raff and the Meatballs, we’re joined by Scott Ford, former Milwaukee Admirals player and coach, Brown University graduate, and current assistant coach with the Columbus Blue Jackets. The conversation covers hockey, leadership, and what it really takes to compete and survive at the highest level of the game. From minor-league grind to NHL expectations, Scott shares insight, stories, and lessons learned along the way. | |||
| Should I Stay or Should I Coach: Jim Wilkinson Joins the Meatballs | 04 Feb 2026 | 00:35:47 | |
This week on Raff and the Meatballs, we welcome Jim Wilkinson, former MUHS Spanish teacher and current JV baseball coach. A graduate of Lawrence University, Jim brings a mix of classroom wisdom, dugout perspective, and a lifelong love of The Clash to the mic. From teaching verbs to teaching fundamentals, Jim shares stories from his time at MUHS, life around baseball, and the music that’s been the soundtrack along the way. | |||
| Miles, Music, and Meaning with Erik Anderson | 21 Jan 2026 | 00:29:52 | |
This week on Raff and the Meatballs, we sit down with Erik Anderson, a Portland, Oregon native who has been teaching at MUHS since 2014. Erik earned degrees from Marquette University and Washington University in St. Louis, studying English and Theology, and brings that blend of thoughtfulness and creativity into his classroom every day. Outside of teaching, Erik is a true lover of music who plays multiple instruments and an avid runner who’s always chasing the next mile. Tune in for a relaxed conversation about teaching, creativity, endurance, and finding balance both inside and outside the classroom. | |||
| Agents, Adventures, and a Cat at Sea: Trent Raffaelli Returns | 14 Jan 2026 | 00:39:26 | |
This week on Raff and the Meatballs, we welcome Trent Raffaelli, class of 2004 — a Hilltopper who was in jazz band, and now spends his days representing voice, print, and on-camera talent in Milwaukee and Chicago. Trent shares how he found his way into the world of talent representation, the stories that come with it, and his next big adventure: a boat trip from the Caribbean to the Chesapeake Bay with his wife… and their cat as first mate. Tune in for a mix of laughs, behind-the-scenes tales, and a little nautical spirit. | |||
| From Hilltopper to Healing: Dr. Mike Stauder’s Journey | 07 Jan 2026 | 00:37:25 | |
This week, Raff and the Meatballs welcome Dr. Mike Stauder, a 1995 MUHS graduate whose path has taken him from the halls of Milwaukee to the forefront of cancer treatment. After earning degrees from the University of Chicago and the Wisconsin School of Medicine, Dr. Stauder now serves as a professor in the Department of Breast Radiation Oncology at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, one of the top cancer centers in the world. He joins the crew to talk about his MUHS roots, his medical career, and what it means to serve patients and families facing life’s toughest challenges. | |||
| Walk-On to the Top: Riley Nowakowski’s Rise | 11 Dec 2025 | 00:22:19 | |
This week, Raff and the Meatballs catch up with Riley Nowakowski, a 2020 MUHS graduate whose football journey is straight out of a movie. Riley went to the University of Wisconsin as a preferred walk-on, fought his way onto the field, earned a scholarship, and is now suiting up for the #1–ranked Indiana Hoosiers. From Hilltopper pride to Big Ten intensity, Riley shares what it takes to bet on yourself, put in the work, and chase success at the highest level. | |||
| Legends of the Hilltop: Meuler & Siewert | 10 Dec 2025 | 00:57:29 | |
This week on Raff and the Meatballs, we sit down with two MUHS icons, Greg Meuler and Larry Siewert - educators who shaped generations of Hilltoppers. Greg spent more than 40 years in Catholic education, nearly three decades at MUHS, and comes from a family with MUHS roots deeper than the school’s foundation. Larry, class of ’59, returned to MUHS as a teacher and eventually became the school’s first lay principal, helping launch programs like Senior Shared Life, retreats, and even soccer and hockey. Together, they share stories from the classroom, the sidelines, the principal’s office, and the early days of modern MUHS - two lifetimes of wisdom packed into one unforgettable conversation. | |||
| Serving Up Leadership with Joe Coplan | 03 Dec 2025 | 00:39:49 | |
This week, Raff and the Meatballs sit down with Joe Coplan, a 2014 MUHS graduate who has come full circle to serve the Hilltopper community in big ways. Joe is in his first year as an Assistant Dean of Students, after previously working in Learning Services, and he stays busy on the sidelines as a volleyball coach, basketball coach, and club volleyball coach. As a student at MUHS, Joe helped bring home a state championship in volleyball, and now he’s pouring that same passion into developing today’s athletes and leaders. Tune in for a great conversation about coaching, community, and what it means to help shape the next generation of Hilltoppers. | |||
| Lights, Camera, Hilltoppers! With Tom Mussoline | 19 Nov 2025 | 00:33:54 | |
This week, Raff and the Meatballs welcome Tom Mussoline, who has quietly become one of the key creative forces behind the MUHS media scene. A graduate of Hazleton High School, Bloomsburg University, and holder of a Master’s degree in Educational Technology from Cardinal Stritch University, Tom is now in his fourth year at Marquette University High School. He serves as the Academic Technology Coordinator, advisor, and homeroom moderator, but he’s perhaps best known for starting the Hilltopper Media Collective. Under his guidance, students have been producing high-quality live streams of MUHS athletic events along with the weekly Blue and Gold Recaps that help keep the school community connected. Tune in for a thoughtful conversation about teaching, media, and the students who make the Hilltopper stories come alive. | |||
| Faith, Family, and Football with Coach George Papa Christou | 12 Nov 2025 | 00:33:15 | |
This week, Raff and the Meatballs welcome George Papa Christou, a man who brings heart, humor and a whole lot of wisdom to everything he does. A Brookfield East grad with degrees in Criminal Justice and Theology from Marquette University, George now serves as the Lead Chaplain for the Milwaukee Police Department and coaches MUHS football. With three Hilltopper sons, Jimmy, Greg and Andrew, he’s seen it all from the sidelines and the pews. Tune in for stories about faith, family and a little football philosophy, Papa-style. | |||
| From Hilltopper Glory to the Big House and Beyond | 05 Nov 2025 | 00:46:43 | |
This week, Raff and the Meatballs welcome Tim Williams, a 1986 MUHS graduate who knows a thing or two about winning. Tim was part of state championship teams in both football and track before heading to the University of Michigan, where he played for the Rose Bowl–winning Wolverines and earned Academic All–Big Ten honors three years in a row. Today, Tim serves as the Vice President of Inclusion at Meijer Foods, continuing his lifelong commitment to leadership and teamwork on and off the field. Tune in for stories of Hilltopper pride, Michigan memories, and what it means to build community wherever you go. | |||
| From Hilltopper Hoops to the Cleveland Browns: The John Kopriva Episode | 29 Oct 2025 | 00:36:27 | |
This week, Raff and the Meatballs catch up with John Kopriva, class of 2011 , a Hilltopper who did it all: football, basketball, track, and a state title or two for good measure. After starring at George Washington University (and somehow majoring in chemistry without exploding anything), John traded in his jersey for a white coat. Now finishing his medical training with the Cleveland Browns, he talks about life on the sidelines of the NFL, his days at MUHS, and how he went from running plays to repairing players. | |||
| Turkey Bowl Tactics with Jim Schneider | 22 Oct 2025 | 00:30:56 | |
This week, Raff and the Meatballs sit down with Jim Schneider, who’s been teaching AP U.S. History at MUHS for 18 years. A proud graduate of Marquette University and St. Ignatius Cleveland, Jim has shaped countless Hilltoppers’ understanding of America’s past. But when he’s not diving into the Revolution or the Civil War, he’s calling plays for one of MUHS’s most cherished traditions: the annual Turkey Bowl. | |||
| Perfect Season, Perfect Guest: John Martinez Returns to the Court | 15 Oct 2025 | 00:33:35 | |
Raff and the Meatballs welcome John Martinez, class of ’89, to relive one of the most legendary seasons in MUHS basketball history — the undefeated 26–0 state championship run. John, the conference player of the year that season, went on to star at UW–Green Bay, where he helped pull off a classic NCAA upset over Jason Kidd and the Cal Bears. Fresh off his Hall of Fame induction, John shares stories from those magical days, what it felt like to be part of a perfect season, and how basketball shaped his life long after the final buzzer. | |||
| From State Titles to the Courtroom: The Journey of Jake Josetti | 08 Oct 2025 | 00:45:26 | |
On this episode of Raff and the Meatballs, we welcome Jake Josetti, a 1995 graduate of MUHS who left his mark as both a football and baseball state champion. After his playing days, Jake went on to Ball State, where he continued his football career and earned his degree before returning to Milwaukee to complete his law degree at Marquette University Law School. Today, he practices as an attorney with Conway and Josetti, while also giving back to the Hilltopper community as a football coach since 1999 and as a longtime color commentator. Tune in as Jake reflects on balancing athletics, academics, and a career in law - all while staying deeply connected to MUHS. | |||
| From the Diamond to the Director’s Chair: Danielle Josetti’s Journey | 01 Oct 2025 | 00:32:54 | |
This week on Raff and the Meatballs, we sit down with Danielle Josetti, Deputy Athletic Director at Marquette University. Now in her 23rd year with the Golden Eagles, Danielle has played a major role in shaping the athletic department, most recently serving as chair of the NCAA Women’s Volleyball Committee in 2024–2025. A proud Creighton University alum, she left her own mark on the diamond as a record-setting softball player before moving into collegiate athletics leadership. Join us as Danielle shares stories from her time as an athlete, her decades-long career in athletics administration, and what it takes to keep Marquette sports thriving on the national stage. | |||
| On Par for Greatness: Harrison Ott’s Rise from MUHS to the U.S. Open | 24 Sep 2025 | 00:43:17 | |
Season 3 of Raff and the Meatballs continues with a special guest - 2017 MUHS grad Harrison Ott. A state golf champion at MUHS in 2016, Harrison went on to play at Vanderbilt University, where he helped capture two SEC titles and cemented his place among the school’s all-time greats. After turning professional in 2022, he’s now set to compete on one of golf’s biggest stages - the 2025 U.S. Open. Join us as Harrison shares his journey from high school fairways to the professional circuit and what it takes to chase your dream at the highest level. | |||
| Balancing the Books and Building the Future: Mike Bark’s MUHS Roots | 17 Sep 2025 | 00:30:38 | |
This week on Raff and the Meatballs, we’re joined by Mike Bark, a 1992 MUHS graduate who made his mark both on the football field and the wrestling mat. After earning his master’s in accounting from UW–Milwaukee, Mike went on to found Bull Moose Financial, where he helps clients build strong financial futures. When he’s not crunching numbers, Mike gives back to the community as president of Junior Hilltoppers Football, helping develop the next generation of Hilltoppers on the gridiron. | |||
| From Theater Kid to Tech Guru: Chris Oliva Keeps MUHS Connected | 12 Sep 2025 | 00:45:31 | |
Seasoned Hilltopper and 2006 MUHS grad Chris Oliva joins Raff and the Meatballs to share his journey from the stage to the server room. Now serving as MUHS’s Director of Technology, Chris built his path through an associate’s degree from MATC in IT Network Specialist, a bachelor’s in Management of Information Systems from Ottawa University, and a professional certificate in Cybersecurity from UW–Madison. Outside of keeping MUHS running smoothly, Chris is a man of many talents—he coaches bowling, plays softball, loves reading, cooking, gaming (and building gaming PCs), traveling, and spending time with family and friends. Once a self-proclaimed “theater kid” who performed as Mr. Al Taylor in Follies, he even bowled on TV and has met icons like Pete Rose and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. Tune in to meet the man behind the tech curtain who keeps everything clicking at MUHS! | |||
| From Finish Lines to Headlines: Ethan Chang Joins the Meatballs | 03 Sep 2025 | 00:26:28 | |
This week on Raff and the Meatballs, we’re joined by sophomore Ethan Chang, an all-around talent who balances the demands of cross country running with his creative work as a member of the Hilltopper Media Collective. Ethan plays a key role behind the scenes, producing live events that showcase the energy and spirit of the MUHS community. Tune in as we get to know Ethan, his passion for storytelling through media, and how he manages life as both an athlete and a producer. | |||
| Strength and Service: Andrew Kossow Joins the Meatballs | 27 Aug 2025 | 00:37:45 | |
Raff and the Meatballs launches Season 3 with fresh energy and a brand-new crew of Meatballs - Leo Giampietro, Ronnie Decker, and Cruz Azzaline - joining Sean Raffaelli behind the mic. To start things off, the team welcomes Andrew Kossow, MUHS Strength and Conditioning Coach. A 2005 graduate of Green Bay Southwest High School, Andrew brings not only his coaching expertise but also his unique perspective as a U.S. Army veteran, having served from 2005 to 2012. Tune in for a conversation that blends discipline, resilience, and a look at what it means to build strength both inside and outside the weight room. | |||
| Passing the Torch: ASCs, New Meatballs, and a Farewell to a Legend | 28 May 2025 | 00:51:28 | |
In this special end-of-year episode, we highlight the next generation of educators and voices at MUHS. We’re joined by ASCs Miles Monday (MUHS ’20 / St. Louis University), Will Stuart (Hillsdale), and Leo Landeros (Marquette), who reflect on their year of service and growth. Will is set to return to MUHS next fall as a full-time math teacher. | |||
| Closing Bell: MUHS Leadership Wraps Up the Year | 21 May 2025 | 00:38:58 | |
In our final episode of the 2024–2025 school year, we’re joined by MUHS’s top leadership: Principal Jeff Monday and President Fr. Mike Marco, S.J. Together, they reflect on the school year, share insights into their leadership journeys, and talk about what lies ahead for the MUHS community. Fr. Marco, a Jesuit with degrees from Boston College and Creighton University, brings a background in psychology and religious education. Principal Monday, who has led MUHS since 2010, studied mathematics and education at Creighton and Marquette. Don’t miss this thoughtful sendoff to another remarkable year at 3401 W. Wisconsin Ave. | |||
| From Hilltopper to Greek Fest: The Journey of Greg Papachristou | 14 May 2025 | 00:36:53 | |
Greg Papachristou, a 2005 MUHS graduate, brings a unique blend of science, service, and spirit to everything he does. After earning a degree in Biomedical Engineering from Marquette University in 2009, Greg has remained deeply connected to both his faith and community. A standout athlete in football, wrestling, track, and powerlifting during his time at MUHS, he now serves as President of Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church and leads Milwaukee’s beloved Greek Fest at State Fair each summer. | |||
| Coming Home: Jon Kahle Named Next Head Football Coach at MUHS | 07 May 2025 | 00:40:35 | |
Jon Kahle, a proud 2000 graduate of MUHS and Providence College alum, is set to take the reins as the next head football coach at Marquette University High School starting in the fall of 2025. After 12 impressive seasons leading Brookfield Academy to 11 postseason appearances—Coach Kahle returns to his alma mater, ready to build on tradition and inspire the next generation of Hilltoppers. | |||
| From Courts to Cleats: The Shae McNamara Story | 30 Apr 2025 | 00:36:24 | |
Shae McNamara, a 2004 graduate of MUHS, took his talents from the basketball court to an unexpected place, the world of Australian Rules Football. After earning a basketball scholarship to Marist College and playing professionally in Germany, Shae made sports history as the first American-born and raised player in Australia’s top league. Tune in as he shares his journey through two continents, two sports, and a lifetime of bold decisions. | |||
| Wearing All the Hats: The Legacy of James 'Luigi' Schmitt | 23 Apr 2025 | 00:42:06 | |
In this episode, we highlight the remarkable career of James “Luigi” Schmitt, a proud 1965 MUHS graduate whose dedication to the school spans decades. Luigi has worn just about every hat at MUHS—teacher, coach, administrator—and coached five different sports along the way. His influence has been felt in every corner of the Hilltopper community. One of his lasting contributions? Playing a key role in the creation of the MUHS Athletic Hall of Fame. And now, the honor comes full circle: Luigi will be inducted into the Hall of Fame himself in June 2025. This episode is a tribute to a true MUHS legend—someone who’s helped shape the school’s spirit, legacy, and tradition. This episode is a celebration of service, legacy, and the kind of school spirit that lasts a lifetime. Don’t miss it. | |||
| From MUHS to the Admirals: Jon Greenberg’s Front Office Journey | 16 Apr 2025 | 00:42:11 | |
In this episode, we catch up with Jon Greenberg, a 1985 MUHS graduate who's been making moves off the ice for nearly two decades. After earning a degree in Mass Communications from UWM in 1989, Jon carved out a career in sports management and has been serving as President of the Milwaukee Admirals since 2005. Jon shares what it’s like to run a professional hockey team, how his time at MUHS shaped his path, and what it takes to thrive in the world of sports leadership. Whether you're into hockey, communications, or just want to hear from someone who's built a career doing what he loves, this episode has something for you. | |||
| From Mr. Basketball to the NBA: Joel Przybilla’s Journey | 09 Apr 2025 | 00:41:01 | |
In this episode, we’re joined by Joel Przybilla, a former NBA center whose basketball journey took him from Minnesota high school legend to a 13-year career in the pros. Joel was named Mr. Basketball in Minnesota in 1998, then went on to play two standout seasons at the University of Minnesota. His talent and size quickly drew attention, and in 2000, he was selected as the 9th overall pick in the NBA Draft. Over the next 13 seasons, Joel played in the league with grit and consistency, earning a reputation as a tough, dependable big man. Tune in to hear Joel reflect on his path to the NBA, life on and off the court, and what he’s learned from the game. | |||
| Courtside Legends: Mike Donovan & David Frank’s Winning Legacy | 02 Apr 2025 | 00:41:54 | |
In this episode, we sit down with two iconic figures in MUHS tennis history: Mike Donovan and David Frank. Mike Donovan dedicated nearly five decades to MUHS, teaching from 1966 to 2015. As head tennis coach, he led the program to an incredible 19 state titles in 20 years between 1981 and 2000 — a dynasty in every sense of the word. David Frank, a 1999 MUHS graduate and current head coach, has continued that tradition of excellence. As a player, he claimed individual state titles and helped his team win four state championships. After graduating from the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School of Business, David returned to MUHS to coach. In his 19 seasons at the helm, his teams have claimed 13 state titles. (As for those other six seasons... come on, David!) Tune in as these two coaching legends share stories from their time on the courts, the keys to building championship teams, and what it takes to leave a lasting legacy. | |||
| From State Champion to Service Hero: Israel Thompson's Journey | 26 Mar 2025 | 00:37:37 | |
Israel Thompson, a 1995 graduate of Marquette University High School and a Marquette University alum, has led a life marked by dedication and service. As a member of the 1994 State Championship football team and a wrestler at MUHS, Israel knew the value of hard work early on. He carried that same spirit into his military career, serving tours of duty in Korea, Afghanistan, and Iraq. Join us as Israel shares stories from the field, his time at MUHS, and the lessons he’s carried with him throughout his journey. | |||
| From The Onion to The Simpsons: Dan Vebber’s Emmy-Winning Comedy Career | 19 Mar 2025 | 00:40:16 | |
Dan Vebber, a Whitefish Bay High School and UW-Madison graduate, has made a name for himself in the world of comedy writing. From his early days as an editor at The Onion to his Emmy-winning work as a writer and producer for The Simpsons, Dan has played a key role in shaping some of the most iconic animated comedies. His impressive résumé also includes work on Futurama and American Dad. Tune in as we explore his journey from Wisconsin to Hollywood and the art of writing comedy for millions. | |||
| From Hilltopper to the Gridiron: Jon Gaines II’s Journey to UCLA and Beyond | 12 Mar 2025 | 00:40:08 | |
In this episode, we catch up with Jon Gaines II, a proud MUHS alum who made his mark on the football field before taking his talents to UCLA—and apparently, the kitchen too. Born in Wauwatosa, Jon was a standout multi-sport athlete at MUHS, excelling in both football and track & field. As a team captain and Wisconsin Football Coaches Association All-State honorable mention in 2017, he was ranked among the top players in the state and the 128th-best tackle nationally. He ultimately committed to UCLA, choosing the Bruins over offers from Northern Illinois, California, Iowa, and Purdue. But Jon isn’t just about football—he also happens to have an amazing lasagna recipe. Will he share the secret ingredients? Tune in as he talks football, life lessons, and maybe even some cooking tips along the way. | |||
| Building Success On and Off the Court: Joe Coplan’s MUHS Journey | 05 Mar 2025 | 00:38:31 | |
Joe Coplan, a 2014 MUHS graduate, has returned to his alma mater to make an impact both in the classroom and on the court. After earning a degree in History from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in 2019, Joe now serves as an Academic Support Teacher at MUHS. His passion for coaching extends to both volleyball and basketball, leading the Freshman teams at MUHS and working with the Milwaukee Volleyball Club. Join us as we dive into Joe’s journey from student to mentor and his dedication to helping the next generation succeed. | |||
| MUHS Legends: Dan Quesnell & Rick Bridich Share Their Stories | 26 Feb 2025 | 00:41:00 | |
In this episode, we sit down with two MUHS legends, Dan Quesnell (‘93) and Rick Bridich (‘69), to talk about their experiences as students, athletes, and leaders in the MUHS community. Dan, the current principal at DSHA, is a Hall of Fame member who played baseball and basketball, winning back-to-back state titles in baseball. He went on to earn degrees from Marquette University, the University of Wisconsin, and Mount Mary. Rick dedicated 44 years to MUHS as a teacher and coach. He was the school’s first Director of Shared Life for 15 years and led the baseball program to four WISAA state championships in 11 seasons. A Harvard graduate, his impact on MUHS athletics and student life is legendary. Tune in as they reflect on their time at MUHS, share lessons learned, and discuss how the school shaped their journeys. | |||
| Faith, Family, and Football: Dan Holahan’s MUHS Legacy | 19 Feb 2025 | 00:33:35 | |
For over three decades, Dan Holahan has been a pillar of MUHS, shaping young minds as a theology teacher and football coach since 1988. With degrees in philosophy and religious studies from Marian University, the University of Detroit, and Marquette University, Dan’s passion for education runs deep—both in his studies and in his family. His wife, son, and daughter-in-law all serve the MUHS community, continuing a legacy that began with his grandfather. A lover of books and music, Dan shares his insights on faith, coaching, and the enduring Holahan connection to MUHS. | |||
| From the Mat to the Ice: Andrew Salemme & Britta Curl's Journeys to the Top | 12 Feb 2025 | 00:38:34 | |
Raff and the Meatballs welcome two incredible athletes with ties to UW-Madison—Andrew Salemme and Britta Curl. Andrew, a 2018 MUHS grad, made history as the first MUHS wrestler to reach a WIAA state final before continuing his career at Wisconsin. Britta, a three-time national champion and captain of the Badgers Women's Hockey Team, holds the program record for most games played and ranks among the top goal scorers in school history. Now playing professionally for the Minnesota Frost, Britta shares her experiences in the new women's pro hockey league. Tune in for stories of grit, perseverance, and life beyond collegiate sports! | |||
| Marti Wronski: Behind the Scenes with the Brewers' COO | 05 Feb 2025 | 00:37:58 | |
Raff and the Meatballs sit down with Marti Wronski, Chief Operating Officer of the Milwaukee Brewers, who has spent the past 23 years helping shape the organization. A 1994 graduate of St. Norbert College and a 1997 UW Law School alum, Marti gives us an inside look at what it takes to run a Major League Baseball club. From working with the legendary Bob Uecker to the story of Hank the Dog, she shares fascinating insights into the business of baseball and her journey to becoming one of the top executives in the sport. | |||