What does it mean to live out your calling—and help others discover theirs?

On this episode of Parrott’s Perch, host Dr. Josh Parrott welcomes Neal Payne, Associate Minister to the University for Student Ministries, and Stacy Simmons, Associate Minister to the University for Pastoral Care, for a powerful and personal conversation about faith, purpose, and student impact at Gardner-Webb University.

From their own journeys of coming to faith to their years of guiding students through life’s biggest questions, Neal and Stacy share how authentic connection, daily faith, and intentional mentorship shape lives on campus and beyond. The conversation explores the role of campus ministry, the importance of community, and how students can grow spiritually no matter where they are in their journey.

Whether discussing mission trips, discipleship, or simply walking alongside students in everyday moments, this episode highlights the lasting impact of investing in others—and trusting God’s direction every step of the way.

Tune in for a conversation about calling, connection, and the power of faith in action.

This episode of Parrott’s Perch was recorded in the historic Elliott House on the campus of Gardner-Webb University.

Music featured in this episode includes “Feel Inspired” by Ben Fox and “You Can Tell” by Max Hixon.

#ParrottsPerch #GardnerWebb #CampusMinistry #FaithInAction #StudentMinistry #ChristianLeadership #FaithAndPurpose #CallingAndPurpose #CollegeFaith #SpiritualGrowth #GWU #HigherEdPodcast #FaithJourney #MinistryLife #Discipleship #PodcastRecommendations #ChristianPodcast #LeadershipDevelopment

What does it truly mean to make an impact—one gift at a time?

In this episode of the Double Dawg Day Spotlight, host Kanisha Fowler sits down with Karen Bruce, Interim Vice President of Advancement at Gardner-Webb University, to explore the heart behind one of GWU’s most important traditions.

With Double Dawg Day set for April 16, this conversation highlights how generosity—at any level—helps shape the student experience, strengthen academic and athletic programs, and create lasting opportunities for future Bulldogs.

From powerful stories of alumni giving to the real impact behind gifts of $25, $50, or more, this episode reminds us that participation matters just as much as the amount. It’s not just about fundraising—it’s about community, faith, and investing in something bigger than ourselves.

Tune in to discover:

• How donor support fuels campus growth and student success

• Why every gift—no matter the size—makes a difference

• The role of alumni and community in shaping Gardner-Webb’s future

• How you can be part of Double Dawg Day

Mark your calendar: Double Dawg Day is April 16

Learn more and give: give.gardner-webb.edu

#DoubleDawgDay #GardnerWebb #GWU #BulldogNation #GiveBack #HigherEd #Fundraising #NonprofitImpact #CollegeGiving #AlumniGiving #StudentSuccess #FaithAndEducation #ChristianEducation #MakeAnImpact #SupportStudents #UniversityLife #OneWebb #BecomeMore #BulldogPride #GWUCommunity #GiveLocal #EducationMatters

What does it take to build a career in the ever-evolving world of sport management?

In this episode of The Bulldog Mindset, host Dr. Greg Pillar sits down with Dr. Gerald Gilsdorf, Professor of Sport Management, and Dr. Joshua Vadeboncoeur, Assistant Professor of Sport Management at Gardner-Webb University. Together, they explore how today’s sport management programs are preparing students for dynamic, fast-paced careers both on and off the field.

From leadership development and hands-on learning experiences to internships, networking, and the business side of athletics, this conversation highlights the real pathways students can take to turn passion for sports into meaningful, career-focused opportunities. Gilsdorf and Vadeboncoeur also share insights into how the industry continues to shift—and how adaptability, communication, and leadership remain essential skills for long-term success.

Whether you’re a student-athlete, aspiring sports professional, or simply curious about the business behind the game, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at how future leaders in sport are developed.

Tune in to discover how Gardner-Webb is shaping the next generation of sport management professionals.

#BulldogMindset #SportManagement #SportsCareers #SportsIndustry #SportsLeadership #GardnerWebb #CollegeOfEducation #HigherEdPodcast #SportsBusiness #AthleticCareers #InternshipsMatter #LeadershipDevelopment #CareerFocused #HandsOnLearning #FutureLeaders

What does it truly mean to make an impact on students’ lives?

In this episode of the Double Dawg Day Spotlight, host Kanisha Fowler sits down with Dr. Nicole Waters, Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs at Gardner-Webb University, to explore how generosity transforms the student experience—from scholarships and academic programs to hands-on learning and life-changing opportunities.

Waters shares her journey as a first-generation college graduate, her passion for education, and how giving—at any level—helps “close the gap” for students pursuing their calling. Whether it’s funding updated classrooms, supporting mission experiences, or investing in future leaders, every gift plays a role in shaping what’s possible at Gardner-Webb.

Key Takeaways:

• Why every gift—no matter the size—matters

• How giving supports scholarships, student experiences, and academic excellence

• The lasting impact of investing in the next generation of leaders

Double Dawg Day is April 10

Learn more and give: https://gardner-webb.edu/give

Be part of something bigger. Be part of the mission. Be part of Double Dawg Day.

#DoubleDawgDay #GardnerWebb #GWUGiving #BulldogNation #StudentSuccess #HigherEducation #GiveBack #SupportStudents #FirstGenSuccess #AcademicExcellence #GWUFamily #FundTheFuture #EducationMatters #BulldogPride

College is a time of growth, discovery—and sometimes stress, anxiety, and uncertainty. In this episode of WebbChat, host Noel T. Manning II sits down with Kimberly Retherford and Megan Peek from the Gardner-Webb Counseling Center to explore how students can access meaningful mental health support right on campus.

From free and confidential counseling services to crisis support, group programs, and outreach initiatives, this conversation highlights how Gardner-Webb is creating a culture of care, connection, and wellbeing for its students. The team shares insight into common challenges college students face—including academic pressure, life transitions, and mental health stigma—while offering practical encouragement for those hesitant to seek help.

Whether you're a current student, prospective student, or parent, this episode provides a clear look at how counseling services can help students not only navigate college—but truly thrive.

Tune in to learn how one conversation, one step, and one supportive space can make all the difference.

Music on this episode by Carter McDevitt, “Reap What You Sow.”

Learn more about Gardner-Webb Counseling Center services and student resources at gardner-webb.edu

Explore more WebbChat episodes and campus stories atgardner-webb.edu/podcast.

#WebbChat #GardnerWebb #CollegeMentalHealth #StudentWellness #CampusLife #MentalHealthAwareness #CounselingServices #StudentSupport #HigherEd #Podcast

#MentalHealthMatters #CollegeStudents #AnxietySupport #StudentSuccess #WellnessJourney #BreakTheStigma #CampusResources #FreeCounseling #ThriveInCollege #GWU

In this Double Dawg Day Spotlight, host Kanisha Fowler sits down with Brendan Fahey, vice president and director of athletics at Gardner-Webb University, to explore the impact of giving on Runnin’ Bulldog Athletics.

From supporting student-athletes to strengthening facilities and programs, Fahey shares how Double Dawg Day (April 16) fuels success both on and off the field. This daylong giving event unites the Gardner-Webb community in a shared mission to invest in the future of GWU.

Whether you’re a proud alum, fan, or supporter, your gift makes a difference. Learn more and get involved: gardner-webb.edu/give

Don’t miss this conversation highlighting the power of generosity, teamwork, and Bulldog pride.

#DoubleDawgDay #GardnerWebb #GWU #RunninBulldogs #BulldogNation

#GiveGWU #SupportStudentAthletes #CollegeGiving #HigherEdGiving #GiveBack

#GWUAthletics #CollegeSports #NCAA #StudentAthletes #BulldogPride

#UniversityLife #CampusImpact #AlumniSupport #MakeADifference #EducationMatters

What happens when a student decides to go beyond the classroom and follow curiosity wherever it leads?

In this episode of The Bulldog Mindset, host Dr. Greg Pillar sits down with Bethany Durham, a Gardner-Webb junior studying Political Science and International Relations, and Dr. Elizabeth Amato, Associate Professor of Political Science and Director of Undergraduate Research.

Durham shares the story behind her Summer Scholars research examining women as perpetrators of genocide, using the Rwandan genocide as a case study — a topic that challenges common assumptions and explores an under-examined area of scholarship. Along the way, she discusses presenting her work at an academic conference, balancing research with a congressional internship, and serving as Student Body Vice President.

Together, Durham and Amato reflect on the power of undergraduate research, mentorship, intellectual curiosity, and leadership — and how small opportunities can open doors to bigger ambitions, including Durham’s goal of pursuing law school and international human rights work.

This conversation is about more than academic success. It’s about courage, curiosity, and discovering what happens when students realize they belong in important conversations.

Tune in to explore how research, leadership, and mentorship are shaping the next generation of thinkers and leaders at Gardner-Webb University.

Learn more about GWU podcasts at gardner-webb.edu/podcast

#BulldogMindset

#GardnerWebb

#UndergraduateResearch

#StudentLeadership

#HigherEducation

#PoliticalScience

#InternationalRelations

#FutureLeaders

#MentorshipMatters

#AcademicCuriosity

#CollegePodcast

#ResearchMatters

#GWU

In this episode of WebbChat, host Noel T. Manning II welcomes Gardner-Webb University alumni Mike Shade and Eli Strait, creators of the wildly popular Chasing Scratch: A Golf Podcast.

Shade and Strait reflect on their time at Gardner-Webb University, where their friendship first took root, and share the story behind the genesis and evolution of the Chasing Scratch podcast. What began as a personal challenge to improve their golf games has grown into a beloved podcast with a devoted following and coverage from outlets like Golf Digest and other leading golf publications.

From college memories to the creative process behind podcasting, this conversation explores how two Runnin’ Bulldogs turned friendship, curiosity, and a shared love of the game into a successful and entertaining podcast.

To find out more about Mike and Eli, check out chasingscratchgolf.com.

Discover more podcasts from Gardner-Webb University at gardner-webb.edu/podcast.

Music featured in this episode:

“Reap What You Sow” and “Runnin’ Wild” by Carter McDevitt

#WebbChat

#GardnerWebb

#ChasingScratch

#GolfPodcast

#GolfLife

#PodcastInterview

#GWUAlumni

#RunninBulldogs

#GolfCommunity

#PodcastCreators

In Season 1, Episode 2 of The Parrott’s Perch, Dr. Josh Parrott sits down with Gardner-Webb University alumnus Jack Eason, Executive Stateside Director of CUPS Mission.

CUPS Mission works to enrich the lives of families in developing nations through education, discipleship, vocational training, and holistic community support. In this conversation, Jack shares how his time at Gardner-Webb helped shape his calling, what it means to lead a global ministry, and how faith fuels long-term service in communities facing poverty and human trafficking.

This episode explores leadership, resilience, global missions, and the everyday realities of living out one’s calling.

Listen to The Parrott’s Perch wherever you stream podcasts or visit: gardner-webb.edu/podcast

To learn more about Christian Life and Service at Gardner-Webb University, search “Christian Life and Service” at gardner-webb.edu.

#ParrottsPerch
#JackEason
#CUPSMission
#GlobalMissions
#FaithInAction
#ChristianLeadership
#GardnerWebb
#GWUAlumni
#CampusMinistry
#FaithAndService
#HumanTraffickingAwareness
#ChristianPodcast

Welcome to The Bulldog Mindset, where we explore purpose, people, and the work that brings Gardner-Webb University to life through learning, leadership, and service. Hosted by Dr. Greg Pillar, this podcast highlights the individuals building systems, shaping strategy, and strengthening the student experience every day.

In this episode, Dr. Kenneth Johnson, Executive Director of Student Success at Gardner-Webb, joins the conversation to unpack what student success truly means — and why it never happens by accident

From belonging and persistence research to retention strategy, advising systems, and career readiness alignment, Dr. Johnson shares how coordinated, intentional support structures help students move from entry to completion.

The discussion explores the hidden curriculum of college, the unique needs of online and residential learners, the role of technology in success coaching, and why human connection still leads. It’s an insightful look at the systems beneath the surface — and the leadership required to make them work.

Tune in to discover how belonging, clarity, and coordinated support shape stronger outcomes for students. Learn more about Gardner-Webb University and our podcast series at gardner-webb.edu/podcast.

#BulldogMindset #GardnerWebb #StudentSuccess #HigherEdLeadership #BelongingMatters #Retention #AcademicSuccess #PurposeDrivenLeadership