In the season premiere, host Noel T. Manning II welcomes Gardner-Webb alumna, entrepreneur, digital marketing strategist, and founder of Socially Stetson, Stetson Patton, for a conversation about entrepreneurship, lifelong learning, and the power of authentic storytelling.

Patton shares her journey from Gardner-Webb student to successful business owner, reflects on the ever-changing world of social media and digital marketing, and discusses her role as instructor for Gardner-Webb's new PACE 515 Freelance Social Media Management Program. Together, they explore how creativity, technology, and practical experience can empower individuals to launch freelance careers, grow businesses, and confidently navigate today's digital landscape.

Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a business owner, a student, or simply curious about the future of digital communication, this episode offers practical insights and plenty of inspiration.

Learn more about the PACE 515 Freelance Social Media Management Program at Gardner-Webb PACE 515 Freelance Social Media Management Program. The 12-week certificate program equips participants with hands-on experience in content creation, AI tools, client management, analytics, and business development to help launch successful freelance careers.

WebbChat introduces you to the people, ideas, and opportunities shaping Gardner-Webb University—one conversation at a time. Join us each episode as we sit down with faculty, staff, students, alumni, and friends of the University to share the stories behind the work that's making a difference.

Find more about the course here: https://gardner-webb.edu/programs/freelance-social-media-management-program/

Theme Music: "Reap What You Sow" by Carter McDevitt

#WebbChat

#GardnerWebb

#WebbChatPodcast

#Season3Premiere

#StetsonPatton

#SocialMediaMarketing

#DigitalMarketing

#Entrepreneurship

#FreelanceLife

#SmallBusiness

#ContentCreation

#SocialMediaManager

#PersonalBranding

#AIForBusiness

#LifelongLearning

#ProfessionalDevelopment

#PACEProgram

#ContinuingEducation

Long before she became a two-time recipient of Gardner-Webb University's Excellence in Teaching Award, Dr. Paula Qualls was simply a young woman trying to understand God's calling for her life.

In this episode of Beyond the Pages, Qualls reflects on the quiet moments that shaped an extraordinary career—an encouraging word from a friend, a growing love for Scripture, the unexpected path into teaching, and the joy of helping students discover the gifts God has placed within them.

More than a story about teaching, this is a conversation about faith, mentorship, purpose, and the lasting impact one person can have on another.

Beyond the Pages is the official audio companion to Gardner-Webb Magazine, bringing the magazine's stories to life through authentic dialogue with the alumni, students, faculty and friends who have lived them.

Thanks to Katie Hartley for supplying the voiceover for this story.

Some stories are too big for the page. Welcome to Beyond the Pages, the official audio companion to Gardner-Webb Magazine. Because the best stories are best told by the people who lived them.

#BeyondThePages

#GardnerWebb

#GardnerWebbMagazine

#DrPaulaQualls

#TeachingExcellence

#ChristianHigherEducation

#FaithAndLearning

#Mentorship

#Purpose

#Calling

#BiblicalStudies

#SpiritualFormation

#HigherEducation

#FacultySpotlight

#BulldogPride

Every great conversation leaves an impact. Every great host helps shape the journey.

In this special Season 2 finale of The Bulldog Mindset, Dr. Greg Pillar reflects on his time at Gardner-Webb University and the conversations that have defined the podcast's first two seasons. From faculty and staff to students, and campus leaders, the series has highlighted the people whose passion, leadership, and dedication make Gardner-Webb a truly distinctive university.

Joining Greg is Dr. Robert Prickett, who officially takes the microphone as the next host of The Bulldog Mindset. Together they reflect on the evolution of the podcast, discuss the importance of storytelling in higher education, and share a preview of what's ahead as Season 3 begins.

This episode isn't simply about changing hosts—it's about celebrating a legacy while embracing a new chapter.

Whether you've been listening since Episode One or you're discovering the series for the first time, this conversation offers a meaningful look back and an exciting glimpse into the future.

Thank you, Dr. Greg Pillar, for helping launch The Bulldog Mindset and for introducing listeners to the remarkable people who make Gardner-Webb University a place of learning, leadership, and purpose.

And welcome, Dr. Robert Prickett. The next chapter begins now.

Subscribe and explore the complete Gardner-Webb podcast network at gardner-webb.edu/podcast.

#BulldogMindset #GardnerWebb #HigherEducation #Leadership #Podcast #DrGregPillar #DrRobertPrickett #SeasonFinale #PassingTheTorch #GardnerWebbUniversity #CampusLeadership #EducationPodcast #BulldogNation #AcademicLeadership #CollegePodcast #HigherEd

Some stories are too big for the page. Welcome to Beyond the Pages, the official audio companion to Gardner-Webb Magazine. Because the best stories are best told by the people who lived them.

In this episode, Gardner-Webb alumnus Carson Willoughby ('25) shares how a few unforgettable all-night editing sessions, meaningful mentorship, and lifelong friendships helped him discover his calling as a filmmaker.

From balancing Division I baseball with demanding film projects to earning the Founder's Choice Award at the Real to Reel International Film Festival and continuing his journey in the Master of Fine Arts in Filmmaking program at UNC Wilmington, Carson reflects on the experiences that shaped his future behind the camera.

This conversation explores creativity, collaboration, perseverance, and the moment when passion becomes purpose.

Beyond the Pages is the official audio companion to Gardner-Webb Magazine, bringing the magazine's stories to life through authentic conversations with the alumni, students, faculty and friends who have lived them.

Thanks for Jeff Powell, WGWG station manger, for supplying the voiceover for this story.

#BeyondThePages

#GardnerWebb

#GardnerWebbMagazine

#GardnerWebbAlumni

#CarsonWilloughby

#Filmmaking

#DocumentaryFilm

#Storytelling

#FilmSchool

#FutureFilmmaker

#DirectorOfPhotography

#CreativeCareers

#StudentSuccess

#HigherEducation

#BulldogPride

Some stories are too big for the page. Welcome to Beyond the Pages, the official audio companion to the Gardner-Webb Magazine. Because the best stories are best told by the people who lived them.

In this episode of Beyond the Pages, Gardner-Webb alumna Kim Ballard ('92) reflects on a career spanning more than three decades in broadcast journalism, from discovering her passion for storytelling at Gardner-Webb to leading one of North Carolina's most respected local newsrooms.

A two-time Regional Emmy Award recipient and Regional Edward R. Murrow Award winner, Ballard shares why local journalism remains the backbone of informed communities, the importance of earning trust, and how mentors, curiosity, and a commitment to truth shaped her career. This conversation explores leadership, resilience, and the responsibility of telling stories that truly matter.

Beyond the Pages is the official audio companion to Gardner-Webb Magazine, taking listeners beyond the printed story through conversations with alumni, students, faculty and friends whose journeys continue to inspire.

Thanks for Noel T. Manning II for supplying the voiceover for this story.

#BeyondThePages #GardnerWebb #GardnerWebbAlumni #KimBallard #Journalism #LocalNews #BroadcastJournalism #Storytelling #Leadership #WomenInMedia #CommunityJournalism #EmmyAward #MurrowAward #MediaCareers #TruthMatters #HigherEducation #BulldogPride

In this edition of Minute Majors, we sit down with Dr. Evan Moffitt Drake, a pharmacist and 2012 Gardner-Webb University graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry. Evan shares how her Gardner-Webb experience helped shape her career and influence her journey in the sciences. Discover the lasting impact of a Gardner-Webb education through the stories of our alumni.

Minute Majors showcases Gardner-Webb alumni and the transformative academic programs that helped prepare them for meaningful careers and lives of purpose.

#GardnerWebb #MinuteMajors #AlumniSpotlight #ChemistryMajor #ChemistryDegree #Pharmacist #CollegeSuccess #BulldogPride #GardnerWebbAlumni

What does it mean to dedicate a lifetime to helping others find their voice?

In this episode of WebbChat, Noel T. Manning II sits down with Gardner-Webb alumnus Peter Strickland ('97), whose three decades of teaching at Crest High School have inspired generations of young musicians, educators, and community leaders.

Throughout his career, Peter has done far more than teach students how to play music. He has challenged them to work hard, believe in themselves, embrace creativity, and discover that music is not simply an art—it is a way of life.

Their conversation explores:

• Peter's journey from Gardner-Webb student to award-winning music educator

• Discovering that teaching—not the music industry—was his true calling

• The lifelong partnership between Crest High School and Gardner-Webb University

• Mentoring students who have gone on to become performers, composers, educators, and music therapists

• Why music education builds confidence, discipline, and resilience

• The lasting lessons students carry long after graduation

• Faith, service, and the responsibility of investing in the next generation

Peter also reflects on unforgettable collaborations with renowned musicians, the evolution of Crest's orchestra program, and the joy of seeing former students return—not just as musicians, but as adults whose lives were shaped by music.

Whether you're an educator, musician, student, alumnus, or simply someone who appreciates the power of mentorship, this conversation is a heartfelt reminder that the greatest legacy is often found in the lives we help shape.

Learn more about Gardner-Webb University, the News Center, and the University's podcast network at gardner-webb.edu/news and gardner-webb.edu/podcast.

Music for this episode: Analog Zoo - Spin the Wheel.

#WebbChat #GardnerWebb #PeterStrickland #MusicEducation #MusicTeacher #MusicMatters #ArtsEducation #Mentorship #Teaching #Leadership #Orchestra #ClevelandCounty #GardnerWebbAlumni #MusicInEducation #Legacy #EducationPodcast #CommunityLeadership #MusicPerformance #HigherEducation

How do you discover God's calling for your life?

In this episode of Parrott's Perch, host Dr. Josh Parrott welcomes Dr. Ronnie Parrott, Senior Pastor of Christ Community Church in Huntersville, N.C, for an encouraging conversation about faith, calling, leadership, and trusting God's direction.

Dr. Ronnie Parrott shares his personal journey from growing up in Tennessee to sensing God's call to ministry, pursuing theological education, and leading one of the region's thriving churches. Along the way, he offers practical wisdom on discerning God's will, seeking wise counsel, developing spiritual gifts, building healthy accountability, and faithfully following God's leading through every season of life.

Whether you're a college student exploring your future, a ministry leader seeking encouragement, or someone simply asking what's next, this conversation offers biblical insight and practical guidance for walking confidently in God's calling.

Parrott's Perch is hosted by Dr. Josh Parrott, vice president for Christian Life and Service and university chaplain at Gardner-Webb University. Through thoughtful conversations with pastors, ministry leaders, educators, authors, and other Christian voices, Josh Parrott explores faith, leadership, calling, and the ways God shapes lives for Kingdom impact.

Recorded in the historic Elliott House on Gardner-Webb's campus, Parrott's Perch invites listeners to grow deeper in their faith while engaging with practical wisdom for everyday life.

Discover Parrott's Perch and the full lineup of Gardner-Webb podcasts featuring conversations on faith, leadership, academics, athletics, student life, and more at gardner-webb.edu/podcast.

🎵 Theme Music: "You Can Tell" by Max Hixon.

#ParrottsPerch

#GardnerWebb

#GardnerWebbUniversity

#ChristianLifeAndService

#Faith

#ChristianFaith

#ChristianLiving

#FaithJourney

#WalkByFaith

#BiblicalWisdom

#ChristianLeadership

#Calling

#Purpose

#GodsWill

#PurposeDriven

#SpiritualGrowth

#LeadershipDevelopment

#Discernment

#Ministry

#PastoralLeadership

#ChurchLeadership

#Seminary

#Discipleship

#ChurchLife

#Gospel

#CollegeStudents

#YoungAdults

#ChristianCollege

#FutureLeaders

#FaithAndLearning

#NextGeneration

College is full of new opportunities—and new challenges. The right support can make all the difference.

In this episode of Inside the Webb: Student Life Unpacked, hosts Lesley Villarose and Brian Arnold welcome Dr. Kenneth Johnson, executive director for Student Success at Gardner-Webb University.

Johnson shares how Student Success helps students navigate every stage of their college journey through academic advising, tutoring, the Writing Center, first-year experiences, disability resources, and proactive support services designed to help students overcome challenges before they become barriers. He also discusses the importance of resilience, personal responsibility, and developing multiple pathways toward future success.

Whether you're a prospective student, current student, or parent, this conversation provides valuable insight into the many resources Gardner-Webb offers to help students stay on track, graduate with confidence, and prepare for life beyond college.

Inside the Webb: Student Life Unpacked is sponsored by Gardner-Webb University's Division of Student Development.

🎵 Theme Music: "Running Under the Sun" by Alex MakeMusic.

#InsideTheWebb

#StudentLifeUnpacked

#GardnerWebb

#GardnerWebbUniversity

#OneWebb

#GWU

#StudentSuccess

#AcademicSuccess

#CollegeSuccess

#AcademicAdvising

#Tutoring

#WritingCenter

#DisabilityServices

#FirstYearExperience

#CollegeSupport

#CollegeLife

#HigherEducation

#StudentResources

#StudentSupport

#CollegeJourney

#Resilience

#Grit

#FutureBulldogs

#CollegeBound

#ChooseGardnerWebb

#ProspectiveStudents

#CollegePlanning

College is about more than classes—it's about discovering your community, building friendships, and making memories that last a lifetime.

In this episode of Inside the Webb: Student Life Unpacked, host Lesley Villarose welcomes Brian Arnold, assistant dean of students and director of Student Engagement, along with Whitley Weddington, assistant director of Student Engagement, to explore the many ways students can get involved at Gardner-Webb University.

From clubs and organizations to campus traditions, weekend activities, athletic events, concerts, leadership opportunities, and student trips, discover how Gardner-Webb creates experiences that help students connect, grow, and make the most of their college journey. Learn about New Student Orientation, the Connect Fair, the Involve app, and the many opportunities available to help every student find their place on campus.

Whether you're a prospective student, current student, or parent, this conversation highlights why involvement outside the classroom is one of the keys to a successful and meaningful college experience.

Inside the Webb: Student Life Unpacked is sponsored by Gardner-Webb University's Division of Student Development.

🎵 Theme Music: "Running Under the Sun" by Alex MakeMusic.

#InsideTheWebb

#StudentLifeUnpacked

#GardnerWebb

#GardnerWebbUniversity

#OneWebb

#GWU

#StudentEngagement

#CampusLife

#CollegeLife

#CollegeExperience

#StudentSuccess

#CampusCommunity

#StudentActivities

#CollegeMemories

#StudentOrganizations

#CollegeClubs

#Leadership

#GetInvolved

#CampusEvents

#StudentLeadership

#FutureBulldogs

#CollegeBound

#CollegeSearch

#ChooseGardnerWebb

#ProspectiveStudents

#CollegeJourney