Hawk Talk

As another school year comes to a close, the Hawk Talk crew takes a moment to slow down and look back on everything that made this year memorable. From unforgettable guests and podcast moments to graduation, spring sports, school events, and the countless stories that unfolded along the way, this episode is all about reflection. We revisit some of our favorite memories, share a few laughs, and tal...

This week, we welcome two senior student-athletes as they reflect on their final run through WSHS. From the excitement and challenges of their last season to the memories they've made along the way, the conversation highlights what it's like to balance school, sports, and everything that comes with senior year. We talk about lessons learned, friendships built, and the plans that await afte...

This week, we continue our senior spotlight as we bring on another student to share reflections from their final go around at WSHS. From memories and meaningful moments to gratitude for the people who made an impact, it’s a chance to hear what this time of year really means. We also talk Big 9 Music Fest, catch up on what’s happening around the building, and even learn a little more about Mr. Glea...

After a few busy weeks filled with spring sports and shifting schedules, the crew is finally back together on the mic. This episode is all about catching up on what’s been happening around WSHS during this time of year and settling back into the rhythm of the show. We mix in a spring-themed game for some fun and keep things light as we enjoy being back together and sharing a few laughs along the w...

This week marks a shift as the spring season pulls some familiar voices away from the mic, opening the door for a new perspective on the show. Stepping in alongside a guest host is a senior ready to share what life is like in these final days of high school and what the future holds beyond WSHS. We talk about experiences, lessons learned, and the excitement (and uncertainty) that comes with what’s...

This week’s Spring Break episode takes listeners inside a program that’s always on the move and always in demand. Our guest shares how a welcoming environment and hands-on opportunities have helped create something students from all backgrounds want to be part of, both inside the classroom and far beyond it. From traveling across the state to experiences that stretch well past school walls, the co...

This week, we sit down with a teacher whose path to the classroom was shaped by purpose long before stepping into a school. After 9/11, with the mindset of “If I don’t go, who will?”, the decision to serve in the military became a defining chapter in a journey built on responsibility and commitment to others. From that call to serve to the classroom today, every step reflects the idea of servant l...

This week, we’ve dubbed the episode The Queen’s Court as we welcome two students whose friends have previously joined us on the podcast. We hear about their experiences at WSHS, their future plans, and the many ways they help make our building such a great place. We also try out a new game, One Has to Go, sparking some fun debate, and continue our weekly conversation covering all things Winona Sen...

This week, we sit down with a longtime educator whose presence has become part of the very fabric of our building. Known, mentioned, and sometimes mythologized on the podcast, this guest is someone who seems to have done it all, and this time, we finally get the real story. We talk experience, perspective, and the lessons that only come from years of showing up, learning, and growing alongside stu...

This week’s episode is absolutely jam-packed, beginning with a conversation that reminds us success doesn’t always follow a traditional path, or at least the graduation path. We sit down with a second-year special education teacher whose story includes graduating twice without ever walking across a stage. With passion, perspective, and a natural ability to connect, we learn more about the journey...

This week’s episode features a guest whose reach extends far beyond a single role. From work that touches every corner of the high school to contributions felt throughout the Winona community, the conversation highlights what it means to truly do it all. We talk about wearing many hats, building relationships, and staying grounded while serving students, staff, and the larger community. It’s a beh...

This week’s episode features a guest whose impact is felt every day, even if it’s never sought out. With a grounded perspective shaped by upbringing and experience, the conversation explores what it means to teach with intention, connect with students, and stay true to why the work matters. We dive into classroom approach, personal values, and the importance of showing up consistently, all while k...

This week’s episode features a guest who knows what it means to go the distance. With a deep connection to WSHS and a passion for both precision and perseverance, this conversation highlights the balance between attention to detail and the drive to keep pushing forward. From navigating the numbers behind the scenes to taking on challenges that require serious endurance, this episode is all about c...

This week’s episode features a guest whose life has been defined by service, leadership, and showing up for others. With a background rooted in protecting, mentoring, and coaching, the conversation centers on what it means to build trust, create relationships, and make a difference in everyday moments. From the hallways to the field, this guest brings a presence that students feel and respect, not...

This New Year’s Eve episode takes a different approach as we pull back the curtain on the work and conversations that happen beyond the classroom and outside the school day. Listeners get a behind-the-scenes look at the human side of administration, the decisions, balance, and relationships that shape our building long before the first bell and long after the last one rings. As we close out the ye...

This week’s episode is full of laughs as we welcome a guest whose journey into teaching started with a simple clerical mix-up and turned into something everyone is glad happened. With a down-to-earth style and a natural ability to make people laugh, the conversation reminds us how joy and humor can make learning stick. We lean into the holiday spirit with a round of Naughty or Nice and a festive D...

This week’s episode looks a little different with one of our hosts out, but the fun doesn’t slow down. Some familiar faces step in to help keep the conversation rolling, bringing laughs, stories, and a whole lot of energy to the mic. We’re also joined by a guest who brings a contagious energy to our building every day, sparking conversations about connection, presence, and what makes WSHS such a g...

This week, we sit down with a teacher who brings a truly fearless approach to life and learning. From taking on new challenges to embracing failure as part of growth, this mindset inspires both students and colleagues. With a meaningful connection to WSHS that now comes full circle, the perspective shared in this episode is filled with heart, depth, and authenticity. We explore what it means to tr...

This week’s show kicks off a little differently than usual, with some film talk and a chance to get to know one of the educators in our building in a new and unexpected way. From there, the conversation continues with a guest whose work helps strengthen the opportunities available to our students and school community. We dive into stories about creativity, support, and what it means to invest in t...

This week, we highlight a voice whose influence can be felt throughout our district, offering insight into what it means to shape a positive school culture through connection, leadership, and the everyday actions that make WSHS stronger, and because this conversation wasn’t nearly long enough, a Round 2 is already on the horizon. We keep the Thanksgiving spirit alive with a special Draft Day: Than...

This week, we’re bringing back a special guest for a second take — the first interview may have been lost, but the conversation was too good not to revisit. Our guest is new to WSHS but far from new to education, bringing years of experience, wisdom, and heart to our building. We talk teaching, transitions, and the excitement of starting fresh while still honoring the journey that led here. Someti...

This week, we welcome our first-ever "Tri-Force" of guests as we shine a light on kindness, inclusion, and belonging at WSHS. We talk about empowering students with real-world skills, building a supportive school community, and helping every Winhawk feel seen and valued. A heartfelt, uplifting episode reminding us that kindness has the power to shape our school every single day.

This week marks a milestone as we feature our first-ever student takeover with a student stepping in as co-host. We’re joined by a guest who is new to the WSHS community but already plays a big role in the energy of our events and school spirit. We also have our first remote guest, adding a different element to Hawk Talk. Together, we talk about community, belonging, and what it means to truly be...

Special addition, MEA BREAK! In this episode, we catch up with familiar faces who have a unique perspective on WSHS. From microphones to microscopes, the conversation hits all the right notes as we talk music, memories, and the moments that shaped their journey. It’s a mix of laughter, nostalgia, and a little Winhawk pride as we go back where it all began.

This week, we welcome the Indiana Jones of Winona. A true adventurer with deep WSHS connections and a passion for history, craftsmanship, and exploration. From the forge to the ballfield to destinations far beyond, this conversation uncovers how curiosity and experience shape the journey. We close with Draft Day: Lunch Line Edition, where the hosts build their ultimate school lunch trays and spark...