Slightly Less Scripted

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.

On this episode of Slightly Less Scripted, Director of Student Activities, Mike Carrier '06, joins us for a candid conversation about the unmatched school spirit involved in the DRIVE each year. He breaks down the planning and process for running a successful DRIVE each year and shares some of his favorite memories over the years. 

Watch highlights from the DRIVE: https://www.catholiccentral.net/drive

In this special episode of Slightly Less Scripted, we welcome Mrs. Janice Sharkey, longtime teacher and Director of Student Activities at Catholic Central, whose impact on generations of Shamrocks can’t be measured.

Mrs. Sharkey shares the story of how she first became involved at CC, her journey into teaching, and the many memories she’s made along the way. From the excitement of the DRIVE to the energy of Boys' Bowl, she reflects on the traditions that make Catholic Central such a special place.

It’s a warm, nostalgic conversation about community and the joy of dedicating a career to shaping young men.

In this episode of Slightly Less Scripted, Stephen sits down with Aaron Babicz ’93, Athletic Director at Catholic Central, for a thoughtful conversation about what it truly means to lead well.

Aaron shares his philosophy on creating a positive, values-driven culture, the importance of pouring back into the Catholic Central community, and why “filling the buckets” of coaches, student-athletes, and colleagues is at the heart of everything he does. From servant leadership lessons to everyday encouragement, this episode highlights how intentional care and consistency can shape programs—and people—for the better.

A meaningful conversation on servant leadership, culture-building, and investing in others.

In this episode of Slightly Less Scripted, we sit down with John Fitzpatrick ’08 and Luke Stevenson ’15. What began as an alumni introduction led John to bring Luke onto the production crew for the Discovery Channel’s hit series Expedition Unknown.

They share what it’s really like working behind the scenes on a major television production, how trust and mentorship opened doors, and what it meant to recently earn a Daytime Emmy Award for their work.

This episode is a powerful reminder of the strength of the CC brotherhood, the value of saying yes to opportunity, and where hard work can take you.

On this episode of Slightly Less Scripted, we welcome Chris Rizik, CEO of Renaissance Venture Capital and publisher of the world’s largest online magazine dedicated to soul music, Soul Tracks.

Chris dives into how AI-generated music is reshaping the music industry, disrupting music news outlets, and challenging the way artists create and share their work. He also offers an inside look at how Renaissance Venture Capital is fueling Detroit’s startup ecosystem. 

Finally, Chris shares honest, practical advice for the next generation of entrepreneurs, creators, and visionaries.

Our Podcasts: https://www.catholiccentral.net/podcasts
Renaissance Venture Capital: https://renvcf.com/
Soul Tracks: https://www.soultracks.com

In this episode of Slightly Less Scripted, we sit down with Dominic Recchione ’26, the creative force behind @OfficialDrEffects and one of Catholic Central’s most talented young sports cinematographers. Dominic shares how his journey began with simple edits on his cell phone and grew into producing electric highlight reels that have become a staple of CC athletics.

He takes us behind the lens—telling stories from the sidelines, sharing advice for aspiring content creators, and how his time at Catholic Central has shaped him as a student, creator, and young professional.

This episode spotlights passion, hustle, and the power of seeing the world differently through the camera’s eye.

On this episode of Slightly Less Scripted, we sit down with Dr. Ron Kuzdak ’87, whose journey has taken him from the battle-ready decks of the U.S. Navy to the corridors of modern medicine. He opens up about how his Catholic Central roots shaped his character, his long and distinguished career in naval service, and the calling that led him to become a physician.

Dr. Kuzdak reflects on moments of challenge and growth, the transition between military and medical worlds, and the ways faith and discipline have guided him along the way. Whether you’re interested in leadership, service, or finding your purpose, his story is a powerful reminder that true vocation often comes through sacrifice.

In this episode of Slightly Less Scripted, we sit down with Mike Cox ’80, former Michigan Attorney General and gubernatorial candidate, for a candid conversation about leadership, law, and the lessons learned along the way.

A proud Catholic Central alumnus, Mike reflects on how he and his brothers found their path to CC, the foundation it built for his career, and what ultimately led him into the world of politics. He shares memorable moments from his time as Attorney General, the challenges and triumphs of public service, and what inspires his continued commitment to the people of Michigan.

Disclaimer: As of the time of this episode’s release, and in the interest of fairness to all alumni running for governor, Detroit Catholic Central has reached out to the office of Mike Duggan ’76, former Detroit mayor and fellow gubernatorial candidate, to extend an invitation to appear on a future episode. As of now, he has not yet responded.

In this episode of Slightly Less Scripted, we sit down with Al DiPrima, Catholic Central’s School Safety Officer from Fortis Group, whose journey from a career in law enforcement to serving the CC community is both powerful and inspiring.

Al shares stories from his years in the field, the lessons learned from moments of challenge and sacrifice, and how his faith and family ultimately guided him toward a new chapter—protecting and mentoring the next generation.

It’s a candid conversation about integrity, service, and the call to make a difference wherever God places you.