Straight from the Mustang’s Mouth: The Brick Memorial Podcast

We are now two months into the 2026/2027 school year, and it is time for an official update on all things Brick Memorial! In this special episode, "State of the Stable," all-around Mustang and SGA President Kelly Murtha sits down with our principal, Mr. Ed Sarluca, to give listeners the ultimate status report on our school community.

Mr. Sarluca and Kelly reflect on the highlights, challenges, and successes of the first two months, checking the pulse of the student body and staff. But we aren’t just looking back; they also look ahead to the packed Mustang calendar, previewing the exciting events, assemblies, and milestone dates coming up as we head deeper into the fall and winter. Whether you're a student, parent, or staff member, tune in to find out exactly where the Stable stands and what’s just around the corner!

The holiday season is right around the corner, and the Mustang community is getting ready to make a huge impact! Host Kane Uhrich and co-host Mr. Stefanelli welcome junior Asher Kaiser to the Straight from the Mustang’s Mouth studio to share the details on Operation: Christmas Child.

Asher breaks down how this incredible initiative works, led by Ms. Ingle and Mrs. Dalton, and how Brick Memorial students can get involved to pack and deliver gifts to children who need a little extra love and joy this holiday season. Tune in to learn how simple acts of kindness can reach across the globe, where you can drop off your contributions, and how you can join your fellow Mustangs in spreading real holiday cheer!

The temperature is rising in the studio for another explosive edition of Heating It Up with Jimmy the Blaze! Host Mr. Bright sits down with Brick Memorial/Brick Township Head Gymnastics Coach Missy Hayes to dissect one of the most dominant athletic runs in school history.

Coach Hayes breaks down the discipline, routines, and incredible team unity driving the Mustangs through an astounding 8-0 undefeated season. With momentum on their side, Coach Hayes gives an inside look at how the squad is staying focused, blocking out the pressure, and locking in as they aim to cap off perfection with a 9-0 finish. Tune in to hear what it takes to build an elite program and keep a championship streak alive!

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October, Straight from the Mustang’s Mouth brings you a powerful and deeply personal conversation. Host and sophomore Ava Miller sits down with Brick Memorial teacher and recent cancer survivor, Mrs. Kate Boeckel, for an open and inspiring dialogue.

Mrs. Boeckel reflects candidly on her personal diagnosis, the mental and physical challenges of treatment, and the resilience it took to cross the finish line into survivorship. Beyond her journey, she shares invaluable health advice and words of wisdom specifically tailored for young women—emphasizing self-advocacy, personal awareness, and staying strong through life's unexpected hurdles. Tune in for a heart-to-heart episode that embodies the true strength and unity of our Mustang family.

Music is officially back in the air at Brick Memorial! Host Mr. Stefanelli is joined in the studio by student musician Mackenzie Thompson to celebrate the highly anticipated return of the BMHS Chorus.

In this episode, Mackenzie and Mr. Stefanelli discuss what makes choir such a special community, why the return of this program is so exciting for our school, and how every student, regardless of past experience, can get involved. Rehearsals are officially underway every Monday from 2:30 PM to 3:30 PM in Room 118, led by Mr. Kevin Bettys. Whether you are a seasoned vocalist or just love to sing in the car, tune in to find out how you can join the choir family and let your voice be heard!

We are back with another exciting "Teacher Spotlight" on Straight from the Mustang’s Mouth! Host Emma Crowley sits down for an unforgettable chat with Brick Memorial's very own Mrs. Kate Boeckel.

In this fun and unpredictable conversation, Mrs. Boeckel gives us a glimpse into her world both inside and outside the classroom. She shares the hilarious story behind an unusually odd gift from the Emerald Isle, opens up about her passion for the arts and her incredible second life running her very own theater after the final school bell rings, and takes a firm stance on a legendary seasonal treat—explaining why she absolutely cannot stand McDonald's Shamrock Shakes. Tune in for plenty of laughs, great stories, and an inside look at one of BMHS's favorite educators!

We are re-releasing one of our most impactful episodes to help prepare the Brick Memorial community for an extraordinary upcoming event! On December 3, 2026, BMHS will once again host Challenge Day, a powerful experience designed to build empathy, connection, and understanding across our student body.

Host Collin Crawford sits down with event coordinators Ms. Sam West and Mrs. Amanda Agiovlasitis to break down what Challenge Day is really all about. They share what students can expect, discuss the incredible community transformation that happens inside the gymnasium, and explain why this day continues to be a life-changing milestone for so many Mustangs.

Ready to be a part of it? Spots are limited! Visit the Guidance office today to sign up and secure your place for December 3rd.

Senior excellence is in full focus on this episode of Straight from the Mustang’s Mouth! Host Mr. Stefanelli sits down with senior Kelly Murtha to celebrate her recent recognition as the WOBM Student of the Week.

As Student Government Association (SGA) President, Kelly wears many hats around Brick Memorial. She gives listeners an inside look at all the hard work happening behind the scenes to plan Homecoming and previews the legendary excitement building for Battle of the Classes. Plus, Kelly shares her honest, student-perspective thoughts on the school's new cell phone policy and how it's impacting life in the hallways. Tune in for a great conversation with one of our standout Mustang leaders!

We are celebrating Mustang excellence with a huge Alumni Feature on Straight from the Mustang’s Mouth! Host Mr. Stefanelli welcomes Class of 2022 graduate Lauren Zycband into the studio—fresh off her incredible victory as this year's National American Miss New Jersey!

Lauren sits down to share her inspiring journey, from walking the halls of Brick Memorial to taking center stage under the pageant lights. She opens up about what initially drew her to the world of pageantry and how the experience transformed her self-assurance, built her public speaking skills, and empowered her to chase big dreams. Tune in to hear how this local Mustang turned state titleholder is using her confidence, platform, and passion to step into the world and make her mark!

Connect with Lauren:

• ​Email: [email protected]
• ​Personal Instagram: @laurenzycband
• ​Pageant Instagram: @thenamnjmiss

A new academic year is here, and we are kicking things off with a highly anticipated "Teacher Spotlight"! Host Collin Crawford welcomes Mrs. Elaine Castoro to the Straight from the Mustang’s Mouth studio for an in-depth conversation about her distinguished career at Brick Memorial High School.

In this lighthearted and insightful episode, we peel back the curtain to learn about Mrs. Castoro beyond the grade book. She reveals the key to her heart (it’s a deep and abiding love of chocolate) and walks us down memory lane as she shares touching stories about some of the most meaningful and memorable gifts she has received from her students over the years. Tune in for an episode filled with laughter, appreciation, and plenty of sweet moments.