Western Wednesdays

Join us on Western Wednesdays as we chat with Garrett Ozar, co-founder of Eterneva and proud Western Carolina University alum. Discover how his innovative company, featured on Shark Tank, is transforming the way we remember our loved ones.

In this episode of Western Wednesdays, we chat with Sharon Fenchak, the esteemed winemaker at Biltmore Estate and a proud graduate of Western Carolina University's MBA program. Sharon shares her journey from the classroom to crafting award-winning wines, offering insights into the art and science of winemaking.

PGA Tour golfer and Western Carolina University alumnus JT Poston joins us for Western Wednesdays, sharing his inspiring journey from Hickory, North Carolina to the pinnacle of professional golf. Discover the stories behind his passion for the sport, nurtured by his father and grandfather, leading to a standout collegiate career at WCU. Fresh off his thrilling third PGA Tour victory at the Shriners Children’s Open, JT talks about the unwavering support from the Catamount community and personal milestones, including welcoming his child, Scotty, into the world.

Get a front-row seat to JT's experiences on the professional golf circuit, where he plays alongside legendary figures like Tiger Woods. He recounts the awe of achieving his childhood dream and the importance of mentorship from seasoned golfers at Sea Island. JT reveals how the unexpected presence of Catamount fans across the country has created a unique sense of community, fueling his drive and focus in a challenging sport.

Peek behind the scenes of a week on the PGA Tour with insights from JT on his routine—highlighting the significance of consistency. Learn about his efforts to give back through the JT Poston Invitational, supporting WCU’s men’s golf team and promoting youth golf in Western North Carolina. Hear JT reflect on how personal relationships, from his grandfather's profound influence to his connection with the current WCU team, play a crucial role in a sport often perceived as solitary. Whether you’re a golf enthusiast or simply appreciate a compelling success story, this conversation offers something for everyone.

In this episode of Western Wednesdays, join us as we talk with Jim Rowell and John Connet, two local leaders who played pivotal roles in their communities’ recovery after Hurricane Helene. Hear their inspiring stories of resilience, leadership, and the power of community in the face of disaster.

Join us on this episode of Western Wednesdays as we chat with Western Carolina University alumni Dale Collins, owner of Tuckaseegee Fly Shop, and Preston Jacobsen from Haywood Waterways. Discover their journeys and insights into the world of fly fishing and water conservation!

In this episode of Western Wednesdays, we chat with alumnus and Olympic silver medalist Manteo Mitchell. Known for his incredible performance in track and field at the 2012 Summer Olympics, Manteo shares his journey and insights. Now embarking on a new adventure, he discusses his exciting transition into the sport of bobsledding.

In this episode of Western Wednesdays, we shine a spotlight on Heather Smith and Abby Bentley, the remarkable educators honored as North Carolina's Teacher and Beginning Teacher of the Year. Both graduates of Western Carolina University, Abby and Heather now inspire and educate students in Haywood County. Join us as we explore their journeys, teaching philosophies, and the impact they've made in their community.

Join us on Western Wednesdays for an enlightening discussion with Randall Harris, drummer of NEEDTOBREATHE and proud graduate of Western Carolina University. Explore his musical journey and how his education has influenced his craft.

In this episode of Western Wednesdays, alumni and friends of Western Carolina University share their journey from students to healthcare professionals at the Cherokee Indian Hospital, dedicated to serving the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. These incredible catamounts discuss the unique challenges and rewards of providing culturally sensitive care within their community, offering insights into the intersection of education, culture, and healthcare in the heart of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.

Join us for a special live episode of Western Wednesdays as we celebrate WCU's annual day of giving, One Day for Western. Tune in to hear our students share their stories of impact and learn how you can support our university's legacy with a single day of generosity.