What does it take to see something before everyone else can see it?

On this episode of The Watchmen Podcast SC, Deputy Slusher sits down with Mr. Larry Barnfield for a powerful conversation about vision, leadership, friendship, the arts, and a legacy that continues to impact generations of students.

Mr. Barnfield takes us back to the early days of arts education in Dorchester School District Two and shares the story behind the vision that helped shape Rollings Middle School of the Arts into what it is today.

But this conversation goes much deeper than the history of a school.

We talk about the people behind the vision, the challenges along the way, the importance of believing in young people, and Mr. Barnfield's close friendship with longtime DD2 Superintendent Mr. Joseph R. Pye.

Two leaders. A shared belief in students. And a vision whose impact can still be seen every time a young person walks through the doors of Rollings.

For Deputy Slusher, who now serves the students of Rollings, this conversation is especially personal. Every day, he gets to witness what happens when leaders plant seeds they may never personally see fully grow.

This is a story about what happens when you believe in something bigger than yourself.

This is legacy.

What does it take to lead one of the largest elementary schools in South Carolina while building a culture where students, teachers, and families thrive?

In Episode 11 I sit down with Vincent Joy, Principle of Sand Hill Elementary School, for a powerful conversation about leadership, engagement, school culture, and community partnerships.

Whether you're an educator, parent, law enforcement professional, school leader, or community advocate, this episode is packed with practical wisdom and leadership lessons that extend far beyond the classroom.

Episode 10 of The Watchmen Podcast we sit down with Adam Weick and take you inside the powerful impact of theatre education at Rollings Middle School of the Arts.

In this episode, we explore how creativity, mentorship, and teamwork come together to shape students both on and off the stage. From Greek theatre history to modern student productions, this conversation highlights how the arts build confidence, leadership, and resilience in young people.

This episode goes beyond performance—it’s about growth, connection, and the lasting influence educators have on the next generation.

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What does it take to build a program where excellence isn’t the goal… it’s the standard?

In this powerful episode of The Watchmen Podcast, we take you inside Rollings Middle School of the Arts and explore a culture where discipline, preparation, and belief in our youth are producing extraordinary results.

From earning Superior with Distinction at Choral Performance Assessment—where students are challenged to sight-read and perform music in just seven minutes with no assistance…

To taking first place at a national competition at Universal Studios…
To consistently producing some of the highest numbers of All-State Chorus students…

This episode goes beyond the performances and into the mindset behind the success.

We dive into what it takes to lead at a high level, how standards are built and maintained, and the impact that mentorship and accountability can have on young people.

Music by Elysium audio labs

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In this impactful episode of The Watchmen Podcast, Deputy Wes Slusher sits down with Kimberly Bender, an educator at Rise Academy Alternative School in Dorchester District Two, to discuss the powerful connection between literacy and life outcomes.

With research showing that a majority of individuals in the justice system struggle with reading, this conversation highlights why literacy is more than education — it is prevention.

Kimberly shares her personal journey, her work with students often labeled “at-risk,” and the vision behind the Rise Readers Initiative — a program focused on building confidence, strengthening families, and breaking generational cycles through literacy.

This episode dives into the importance of early intervention, community engagement, and investing in our youth before challenges become consequences.

Because when we invest in literacy, we invest in safer communities, stronger families, and better futures.

Music by Elysium audio Labs

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Leadership doesn’t always stand in the spotlight.

In this episode, Deputy Slusher sits down with a Rollings alum whose journey spans theater, film, mission work, and mentorship. From backstage beginnings to working on major productions — and pivoting during the 2020 shutdown — this is a story of purpose, resilience, and serving behind the scenes.

Music by Elysium audio labs

Track "Play Hard"

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In this episode, I sit down with Frankie Staropoli, the founder of the Beacons Mentoring Group, for a powerful and heartfelt conversation about investing in our youth and the life changing impact of mentorship.

Frankie shares the story behind Beacons, the mission that drives the program, and why showing up consistently for our young people can change the trajectory of their lives. From building confidence to creating accountability and opportunity, this conversation highlights why mentorship matters now more then ever.

I also want to extend a sincere thank you to Adriana Melendez and Mike Greer from the Summers Corner Performing Arts Center for their outstanding technical support and behind the scenes work.

This episode is about purpose, leadership, and the responsibility we all share in shaping the next generation

beaconsmentoring.org

Music By Elysium Audio Labs

Track "Play Hard"

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Lic:http://bit.ly/3pzpn513

In this episode Mr. Joe Pye sat down with me on the podcast for a powerful conversation reflecting on 52 years of dedicated public service to Dorchester District Two. His story is one of unwavering commitment, quiet leadership, and lifelong devotion to students, families, and the community he served. It was an honor to hear firsthand how his legacy helped shape generations and continues to inspire those carrying the mission forward.

A special thank you to Mike Greer and Adriana Melendez from the Summers Corner Performing Arts Center For their input and technical support.

Music By Elysium Audio Labs

Track "Play ard"

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In this episode Sheriff Sam Richardson from Dorchester County Sheriffs office joins us. Sheriff Richardson joined The Watchmen at Summers Corner Performing arts center with a live audience.

A special Thank you to Mike Greer from the Summers Corner Performing Arts Center for his input and technical help

Music by Elysium Audio Labs

Track "Play Hard"

www.elysiumaudiolabs.com

Lic:http://bit.ly/3pzpn5l3

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In this episode we kick start Red Ribbon Week with Rolllings Middle School of Arts Counselor Amanda Neikirk. Amanda Taught Dance at Rollings Middle School of Arts and also helped build The South Carolinas Governor's School dance outreach program. She also danced professionally and mentored many students who are now pursuing their own dance careers. Amanda was also the founder of the Gladiators program at Rollings Middle School of Arts.

A special Thank you to Mike Greer from the Summers Corner Performing Arts Center for his input and technical help

Music by Elysium Audio Labs

Track "Play Hard"

www.elysiumaudiolabs.com

Lic:http://bit.ly/3pzpn5l3

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