Western Wednesdays

This episode celebrates Larry Naylor, a proud Western Carolina University alumnus and retired Lt. Colonel whose legacy runs deep in Catamount country. With two brothers and two daughters also graduating from WCU, the Naylor family—affectionately known as Naylor Nation—represents generations of dedication, service, and love for Western. Larry shares stories from his military career and reflects on the powerful role WCU has played in his life and family.

This week, we catch up with Zebby Matthews, Minnesota Twins pitcher and proud Western Carolina University alumnus. Zebby reflects on his time as a Catamount, how WCU helped shape his path to professional baseball, and what life is like now in the big leagues. From strikeouts in Cullowhee to the mound in Minnesota, it’s a journey worth celebrating.

This week, we spotlight Monty Graham and Brett Banther, two Western Carolina University alumni who now help lead innovation and industry collaboration at the WCU RAPID Center. As part of the College of Engineering and Technology, they share how their work supports advanced manufacturing and provides hands-on opportunities for students to solve real-world challenges.

In this episode, we feature Jake Robinson, a former WCU student-athlete, current member of the Board of Trustees, and CEO of Champion Credit Union. From the court to the boardroom, Jake shares how his experiences at Western Carolina University shaped his leadership journey and commitment to community-focused financial services.

This week, we highlight Danita Johnson, a trailblazing alumna of Western Carolina University and the current President of Business Operations for D.C. United. From her roots in Fayetteville, NC, to becoming the first Black woman to hold this executive role in Major League Soccer, Danita shares her inspiring journey through the world of professional sports and leadership.

Join us this week as we spotlight Kinley Cook, a proud Western Carolina University graduate with a degree in Parks and Recreation Management. Now serving as a dedicated park ranger with the National Park Service, Kinley shares her journey from the mountains of WCU to protecting some of America’s most treasured natural landscapes. Discover how her passion for the outdoors turned into a fulfilling career in conservation and public service.

Join us for an exciting episode of Western Wednesdays as we chat with Josh Jones, the Vice President of Sports Marketing and Management at Kevin Harvick Incorporated. A Western Carolina University alumnus, Josh played football and majored in sports management. Hear about his remarkable journey from college athlete to managing top-tier athletes in NASCAR, the PGA Tour, and UFC.

Join us for an inspiring episode of Western Wednesdays as we sit down with Matt Henley, the current Director of Athletic Bands at Western Carolina University. A proud alumnus, Matt is celebrating his 35th season with the renowned Pride of the Mountains Marching Band. Tune in to hear about his journey, the evolution of the band, and his vision for the future.

Join us on this special episode of Western Wednesdays as we sit down with Nora Lynn Finch, a proud WCU alumna and a pioneering figure in women's college sports. Discover her inspiring journey, the challenges she overcame, and her lasting impact on the world of athletics.

Join us on this episode of Western Wednesdays as we explore the inspiring journey of Western Carolina University alum Mike Crawford, who became the COO of Forvis, one of the top accounting firms in the US. Discover how he balanced his successful career with a fulfilling personal life and the pivotal moments at WCU that shaped his path.