🎙️ Episode #40 – Peyton Stensrud and Sam Hatcher

This week on the We Belong Here Podcast, we dive into the “Great Debate” with Grinnell High School senior Debate Team members Peyton Stensrud and Sam Hatcher.

We often welcome GHS students to the podcast to talk about the clubs and activities they’re involved in, and this episode is another great example of student leadership and engagement. Peyton and Sam share how they got started in Debate Club, what the process of becoming a debater looks like, how many tournaments they compete in, and the skills it takes to succeed along the way. By the end of the conversation, you’ll walk away with a new appreciation for the art of debate.

So sit back, relax, and get ready to debate — Peyton and Sam truly embody what it means when we say, “We Belong Here!”

Episode #39 – Blake Walker

This week on the We Belong Here Podcast, we’re excited to welcome a special guest — Blake Walker, Class of 2019 and Social Media Manager at Bound-Iowa.

Even though it has only been five and a half years since Blake graduated from Grinnell, we take a step back to explore his journey through high school and college. His story fits right alongside the student voices featured in recent weeks, showing how the activities and experiences students engage in throughout high school can pay dividends later in life.

Blake shares a remarkable story of a childhood dream he never stopped chasing. Today, many may know him as “Blake, the guy from Bound social media,” but an increasing number now recognize him as Blake Walker — one of the voices of Knoxville Raceway!

Sit back and enjoy this episode. We think you’ll agree that Blake embodies our slogan: “We Belong Here!”

Episode #36 – Harper Benesh & Lucy Skouson

This week on the We Belong Here Podcast, we’re excited to welcome our special guests — Harper Benesh and Lucy Skouson, both juniors and dedicated members of the FCCLA (Family, Career and Community Leaders of America) chapter at Grinnell High School.

Harper and Lucy share their experiences from the National FCCLA Competition in Orlando last June, as well as their recent service trip to the Ronald McDonald House at Blank Children’s Hospital in Des Moines. Their stories highlight the leadership, compassion, and community commitment that make Grinnell High School students shine.

After listening, you’ll agree — **Harper and Lucy truly embody the message of our show: We Belong Here! **

This week on the We Belong Here Podcast, we’re excited to welcome our special guests — Peyton Stevenson, a senior, and Lucy Truley, a junior — both proud members of the Grinnell High School Thespian Troupe.

Peyton and Lucy join us to share their experiences at the State Thespian Festival held at the University of Northern Iowa. They also reflect on their time in high school theatre — from the energy of Fall and Spring plays and musicals to the creativity and challenge of Large Group and Individual Speech events.

Their passion, dedication, and leadership shine through every part of their story.

Episode #36 – Maggie Dayton, Aden Wolfe & Ashley Wolfe

This week on the We Belong Here Podcast, we’re excited to welcome our special guests — Maggie Dayton, a senior; Aden Wolfe, a junior; and Ashley Wolfe, Agricultural Science and FFA Teacher at Grinnell High School.

Maggie and Aden share their experiences in the FFA program, discuss the annual Fruit Sales fundraiser, and reflect on their trip to the National FFA Conference in Indianapolis. Their stories highlight the leadership, dedication, and community spirit that make Grinnell High School students stand out.

After listening, you’ll agree — Maggie and Aden truly embody the message of our show: We Belong Here!

Episode #35– Rebecca Sallee Hanson

In this episode, Rebecca shares a bit about herself — where she grew up, what brought her to Grinnell, and what inspired her to run for the Grinnell-Newburg School Board.

Sit back, tune in, and get to know Rebecca Sallee Hanson, School Board Candidate.

Episode #34 – Ben Cooprider

In this episode, Ben shares a bit about himself — where he grew up, what brought him to Grinnell, and what inspired him to run for the Grinnell-Newburg School Board.

Sit back, tune in, and get to know Ben Cooprider, School Board Candidate.

Episode #33 – Chris Starrett

As Chris winds down his first 4-year term on the school board, we will discuss challenges over the past four years and items that he is prioritizing as he prepares for another 4 years on the GHS School Board. 

When we are done, you will see why Chris Starrett is yet another powerful example of why We Belong Here.

This week on the We Belong Here Podcast, we’re excited to welcome our special guest — Aaron Backlin, 9th–12th Grade Spanish and Computer Science Teacher at Grinnell High School.

Aaron began teaching at GHS in 2009 after starting his career in the Tri-County School District. He was recently honored with the “Pack the Backpack” award from KIX 101.1 in Marshalltown after being nominated by a student’s parent.

In this episode, we take a step back to explore Aaron’s journey — from where he attended high school to the values, experiences, and passion for education that drive him today. We think you’ll agree — Aaron Backlin is yet another powerful example of why We Belong Here.

🎙️ Episode #31 – 2025 GHS Homecoming Candidates

These students didn’t shy away from the tough questions and delivered thoughtful, high-quality answers. Of course, there were plenty of laughs and lighthearted moments along the way!

The Homecoming Court is a shining example of the spirit, leadership, and character we’re proud to celebrate at GHS. They truly embody what it means when we say: "We Belong Here!"