’Mid the Pines Podcast

A special bonus episode featuring President Brad Lingo’s '00 inauguration address as the 10th president of Grove City College, highlighting the College’s mission and the enduring values that define who we are.

In this episode of Mid the Pines, Grove City College alumnus Nick Matthews ’95—business leader, executive coach, and accomplished endurance athlete—joins host Zach Jew '11 to explore how leaders are shaped over time. From his early days studying Industrial Management to leading teams, learning through failure, and eventually coaching CEOs, Nick shares candid insights on formation, humility, and the long view of leadership. He also reflects on the discipline behind completing 76 marathons and ultramarathons, and how endurance principles translate directly into effective leadership. This is a conversation about growth, stewardship, and learning the long way.

In this episode of 'Mid the Pines, we sit down with Kyle Sasala, a former Grove City College Baseball Coach who is currently serving as a minor league coach for the Portland Sea Dogs, the Double-A affiliate for the Boston Red Sox. Before stepping into professional baseball, Kyle spent several years on the Varsity Baseball staff at Grove City College, where he poured into student-athletes and helped live out an athletic department culture built around a simple but powerful mantra: Wolverines Together.

Our newest 'Mid the Pines episode features Brad Lingo ’00, J.D., the 10th President of Grove City College, for a dynamic conversation about his first semester in office, his transition from Regent University’s Law School, and his vision for the College as it marks its 150th anniversary in 2026. He offers an engaging look at upcoming celebrations and how the broader community can participate. Tune in to learn more about what to expect in this milestone year as we look toward our exciting future.

In this episode of Mid the Pines, we sit down with Yvonne Lingo, the new First Lady of Grove City College. Yvonne shares her family’s experience of settling into campus life, the joys and surprises of living at the heart of GCC, and the moments that made it feel like home.

The conversation highlights her passion for community, hospitality, and discipleship, including her vision for hosting the upcoming Senior Women’s Bible Study in the President’s House. Enjoy a warm and thoughtful dialogue about gratitude, faith, and the unique spirit of Grove City College, as Yvonne looks ahead with hope and intention for the semesters to come.

On November 6, Grove City College hosted a historic evening: former Vice President Mike Pence and former Speaker Paul Ryan together on stage for the first time in College history. Before 600 guests, they reflected on Ronald Reagan’s vision of America as a “Shining City on a Hill” and the enduring beacons of faith and freedom. Listen in to the recording of the 18th Ronald Reagan Lecture hosted by the Institute for Faith & Freedom at Grove City College.

In this episode of Mid the Pines, host Zach Jew '11 talks with Grove City College alumnus Evan Addams ’10 — founder of The Gather Company, co-founder of Arise Classical Academy, and Alumni Trustee of Grove City College. Evan shares his journey from student to entrepreneur, exploring how faith, creativity, and leadership intersect. Hear insights on innovation, calling, and the courage to build something meaningful — all grounded in the timeless values of Grove City College.

As a pediatric cardiologist and Professor of Pediatrics at the Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Dr. Justin Tretter ‘06 discusses his journey from GCC to a leading expert in cardiac imaging and congenital heart care. With over 170 published articles and his role as editor-in-chief for the upcoming 5th edition of Anderson’s Pediatric Cardiology textbook, he shares insights into his impactful work, including his role as Lead Medical Scientist at Cara Medical. Tune in to learn about his experiences, challenges, and advice for future medical professionals!

In this episode of the ‘Mid the Pines podcast, we sat down with Grove City College alumni JD Larsen '96 and Melissa (Trifaro '96) MacLeod. JD, the CFO of 5&2 Studios—responsible for the production of The Chosen TV series on the life and ministry of Jesus—shares his journey from Grove City College to his role in one of the most successful faith-based series today. JD also shares the significance of the series’ production moves, funding model changes, and the studio's future plans. Melissa, Senior Director of Alumni and College Relations, reflects on their recent visit to The Chosen set in Texas. From campus memories to career advice, this episode offers an insightful and inspiring conversation for alumni and fans of The Chosen alike - Don't miss Season 5, now in theaters in three parts during April! 

President Paul J. McNulty ’80 served as host of this 'Mid the Pines podcast episode with Dr. Paul Kengor, professor of political science and executive director of the Institute for Faith & Freedom at GCC, and alumnus Andrew Coffin ’98, vice president and director of the Reagan Ranch in Santa Barbara, Ca. The pair unpacked their personal and professional connections and talked about their experiences beyond the classroom that have taken them to places far west as they worked together to film Reagan, the 2024 film adapted from Kengor's book, The Crusader.