Slightly Less Scripted

They grill for hundreds at Boys Bowl, hang the Christmas lights every winter, and run the parking lot on football Saturdays — but the real work of the Catholic Central Dads' Club is building brotherhood between fathers and sons. In this episode, Dads' Club leadership joins Slightly Less Scripted to break down what the club actually does, why membership is automatic for any dad, grandfather, or guardian, and how "outsiders" become family fast.

We cover:

• What the Dads Club is and why there's no initiation or time commitment.
• The annual rhythm: football season, Boys Bowl & Champ Stock, Christmas Lights, Unity Nights, Christian Service with St. Aloysius, and the Father-Son Steak Dinner.
• How fundraising supports tuition assistance and the Father Kaufman Student Activities Fund.
• Why only 2–3% of 1,000+ eligible dads participate regularly — and the challenge to change that.
• The advice CCDC leaders give students on networking and persistence.

If you're a Catholic Central dad who's never gotten involved, this is your invitation to answer the call.

Subscribe to Slightly Less Scripted for more conversations from the Catholic Central community.

#CatholicCentral #DadsClub #SlightlyLessScripted #FatherSon #Brotherhood #podcast

What does it take to build a career at some of the world's most influential technology companies?

On this episode of Slightly Less Scripted, Stephen and Shaun sit down with Catholic Central alumnus Gordy Hao 2009, Sales Manager, Mid-Market B2B Services at Reddit, to discuss the rapidly changing worlds of technology, social media, artificial intelligence, and digital advertising.

Gordy reflects on his journey from Catholic Central to Johns Hopkins University, his unexpected path into the tech industry, and the lessons he learned while building a career at LinkedIn and Reddit. Along the way, he shares insights on networking, critical thinking in the age of AI, personal finance, innovation, and why curiosity may be the most valuable skill students can develop for the future.

In this episode of Slightly Less Scripted, we welcome Nicolas Petrucci ’10, Catholic Central alumnus, community partner, and successful real estate professional, for an insightful conversation about the evolving housing market and the human side of sales.

Nick shares his perspective on today's real estate landscape, from shifting buyer expectations and the growing demand for turnkey homes to the challenges facing first-time buyers in an increasingly competitive market. He explains why understanding a home's infrastructure matters more than flashy renovations and how helping clients make informed decisions has become a cornerstone of his business.

The conversation also explores the psychology of sales, the power of relationships in a referral-driven industry, and how social media has transformed the way professionals connect with clients. Nick offers a practical look at how AI is streamlining real estate operations while reinforcing why trust, communication, and personal connection remain irreplaceable.

Whether you're interested in real estate, entrepreneurship, or building a career centered on service, this episode delivers valuable lessons on adaptability, authenticity, and creating lasting relationships in a rapidly changing world.

In episode 25 of Slightly Less Scripted, we welcome the next President and Vice President of the CC Mothers' Club, Maureen Squires and Andrea Ladasz. 

The Mothers' Club operates on a mission to "Share, Serve, and Preserve," acting as a vital support system for the school's faculty, students, and families. This conversation highlights how the club fosters a "sisterhood" among moms, mirroring the brotherhood of the students. Maureen and Andrea emphasize that the club is an open, welcoming community for all mothers, regardless of their professional schedules or previous involvement. 

Learn more about the CC Mothers' Club: https://www.catholiccentral.net/parents/moms

In Episode 24 of Slightly Less Scripted, we sit down with Mr. Nick George, Catholic Central theology teacher and strength & conditioning coach.

Nick shares his philosophy for motivating students in the classroom and the weight room, emphasizing the power of consistency, accountability, and daily habits. He also opens up about his personal journey—from entering the seminary to ultimately finding his calling as an educator and mentor at CC.

Filled with practical wisdom, stories of growth, and reflections on faith and leadership, this episode highlights the lasting impact of investing in others one day at a time.

On this episode of Slightly Less Scripted, we welcome Sherry Diederich—Catholic Central parent, Board Member, former Mothers Club President, and President of TDA Insurance. Sherry reflects on the journey of building TDA Insurance with her husband, Mark, and the values that guided their family and business through the years.

The conversation highlights what Catholic Central has meant to the Diederich family, especially watching her sons, Daniel ’15 and Matthew ’18, grow through the Basilian tradition before joining the family business.  

The episode also touches on the profound impact the Basilian Fathers have had on the Diederich family through their emphasis on faith, humility, relationships, and holistic Catholic education. From entrepreneurship and parenting to legacy and vocation, this conversation offers a heartfelt look at the importance of family, community, and forming young men with purpose and character.

On this episode of Slightly Less Scripted, we welcome Fr. Dennis Noelke, CSB ’71, a Basilian priest, former Principal of Catholic Central, and lifelong educator who has served communities across the country. Fr. Noelke shares memories from his time attending and leading CC, offering a glimpse into the relationships, challenges, and moments that shaped his tenure.

Grounded in the Basilian tradition of Goodness, Discipline, and Knowledge, Fr. Noelke reflects on what it truly means to be a Basilian educator, emphasizing humility, accompaniment, and the formation of the whole person. 

This conversation is a meaningful look at vocation, leadership, and the lasting impact of Catholic education when it is lived with purpose and faith.

In this episode of Slightly Less Scripted, we welcome Joe Fadool ’84, CEO of BorgWarner, for a conversation on leadership, innovation, and the future of mobility.

Joe shares his journey from Catholic Central to leading a global automotive technology company, offering insight into how he rose to the role of CEO and the lessons learned along the way. He also dives into his vision for the future of electric vehicles and key trends shaping the automotive industry.

Joining as a special co-host is Dan Collins ’84, Joe’s classmate, as the two reflect on their time at CC and the memories that helped shape their paths.

It’s a dynamic conversation bridging past experiences with forward-thinking leadership in a rapidly evolving industry.

In this episode of Slightly Less Scripted, we welcome Mike Duggan ’76, former Mayor of Detroit and current gubernatorial candidate, as he returns to Catholic Central for a campus tour and conversation.

Mike reflects on his formative years at the Outer Drive campus, his path from law into public service, and the experiences that shaped his leadership style. He also shares his strategic vision for Michigan’s future, with insight into key issues like educational reform, affordable housing, and AI infrastructure.

A thoughtful conversation connecting past, present, and the road ahead for Michigan.

In this episode of Slightly Less Scripted, we sit down with Matt Rizik for a wide-ranging conversation on impact, leadership, and vision.

Matt shares powerful stories from his philanthropic work saving Flint Beecher High School, how he built a tax portfolio of NBA clients, and his perspective on Dan Gilbert’s role in Detroit’s revitalization. He also gives an inside look at Rocket’s long-term strategy and what it takes to think big while staying grounded in purpose.