RiZing Tide

Our guest for episode 11 recounts his experience moving to Concord and starting at the high school knowing absolutely no one.  His story spawns a friendly debate on the topic of popularity.  Our somewhat philosophical conversation meanders through unexpected twists and turns during which both Kelly and Cody share some thoughtful insights on what it means to be popular.

A chance encounter with a member of the CHS Robotics Team at the Winter Carnival resulted in this episode.  Elliot was so eager to show me their robot for this year's competition, it became immediately apparent that he needed to be our next guest.  Listen to find out how the team has been preparing for their upcoming district competition.

Yes, there is a fully legitimate rapper who walks the halls of Concord High School. And he is the REAL DEAL. Tune in to listen to how he got his start and what he's been able to accomplish since his dad first introduced him to hip hop in 2019. We even have our very own NPR Tiny Desk Concert moment.

Our guest for episode #8 is so much more than our tallest guest so far. In fact, we start with an honest conversation about the pros and cons of standing head and shoulders above the rest. But the real reason she joins us is to share a special talent that she discovered just a couple of years ago - a talent that she is taking to Poetry Out Loud regional competition for the second time in two years.

Episode 7 features the first to knock on our door and very respectfully request to be a guest. And we're so glad she did. Libby LaBombard, straight from the DMV where she just got her license, offers up some amazing stories and even more amazing advice for those of us who struggle with living in the moment. Looking to center yourself and get a few laughs along the way? Just click play...

Our guest for episode #6 has spent significant portions of her life on two different continents. Tune in and join us on Malia's journey from Denmark to Concord to Denmark and back. And to top it off, she tells us about her flight in a glider piloted by her brother!

This episode is a powerful one. Our guest demonstrates amazing strength in sharing a very personal story about mental health and addiction challenges. This is the story of a young man who has exhibited remarkable perseverence to rise above these challenges and carve a path to a higher ground, all while earning his high school diploma months ahead of schedule. Stick around for an important message after the end of the episode to learn about supports and services at Concord High School to help students who need it.

Local theatrical celebrity, Holly Keenan, got her start as a bug hiding in the back row on stage at the Concord Community Music School. Seven years later, she's singing, acting and dancing to sellout crowds. And despite her success, she remains a kind and humble spirit who keeps it all in perspective. Special guest host, Jill Dater, joins us for episode 4.

This is a story about math in action. Listen to hear how Concord High School student Nate Currier has coupled his passion for hockey and his well-developed number sense into gainful employment with a semi-pro hockey team...AND earns ELO high school credit along the way.

Still waters run deep. And that is certainly true for our special guest on episode 2 of RiZing Tide. Shadrach Harerimana was recommended to be interviewed after he and his friends unleashed a torrent of drumming talent on Concord High School during a pep rally earlier this year.

Shad shares stories of his early years at Mill Brook and Broken Ground, his move to a private school and his return to public education when we came to Concord High as a 9th grader. A life altering trip to his family's homeland this past summer, gave Shad a perspective and wisdom beyond his years. Enjoy hearing about Shad's amazing story and outlook on life.