Podcasts

Northville Public Schools' Superintendent Dr. RJ Webber is as curious as they come. Dr. Webber will be interviewing staff, students, parents, community members, and beyond to learn more about the interesting happenings in and around the district.

If you have any suggestions on who Dr. Webber should interview, or topics you'd like us to look into, email suggestions to [email protected]. Make sure to 'Follow' our show on whatever podcast service you use so you don't miss an episode. You can also check out our Podcast website for more details.

In 2024, the Mustang Moments Podcast earned the prestigious MSPRA Award of Excellence, celebrating its outstanding achievement and storytelling in the Audio/Podcast category.

Season 4, Episode 4: A Conversation with Assistant Superintendent of Instructional Services Emily Pohlonski

In this inspiring episode, Superintendent Dr. RJ Webber and District Communications Specialist Katie Rork sit down with Northville Public Schools’ new Assistant Superintendent of Instructional Services, Emily Pohlonski. A Northville native and Presidential Award-winning math and science educator, Emily shares her journey from the classroom to district leadership — and the teachers who shaped her along the way. From leading a hospital partnership program that gave students hands-on healthcare experience to helping design an entirely new school, Emily’s story is one of empathy, perseverance, and vision.

Link to transcript for Emily Pohlonski podcast

Season 4, Episode 3: Empowering Students & Community with Kate Mitchell

Join Dr. RJ Webber as he chats with Kate Mitchell, Executive Director of the Northville Educational Foundation, about how NEF is transforming classrooms and lives. From $3 million in grants to programs like Parent Camp, STEAM Fair, and the Baseline Blitz, discover how innovation, creativity, and community come together to support every student in Northville Public Schools. Stay curious! Transcript for Empowering Students & Community with Kate Mitchell episode.

Season 4, Episode 2: Color My World – Students Champion Mental Health Awareness
Join Superintendent Dr. RJ Webber as he sits down with Keyya, Siya, and Blake, student leaders of Northville High School’s Color My World club. In this episode, they share the story behind the club, their mission to raise mental health awareness and prevent teen suicide, and the exciting annual Color Run event. Hear how these students are building community, promoting wellness, and making a meaningful impact on their peers—one colorful step at a time. Stay curious! Link to Transcript for Color My World Podcast.

Season 4, Episode 1: From Northville to Every Nation: Michael Zervos’ Record-Breaking Adventure

Northville alum Michael Zervos set out on a journey that most of us can only dream of—traveling to every UN-recognized country in just 499 days. Along the way, he broke two Guinness World Records, gathered thousands of stories about happiness, and landed a book deal to share them with the world. In this episode of Mustang Moments, Superintendent Dr. RJ Webber sits down with Michael to talk about curiosity, courage, and what it means to find joy across cultures. From moments of perspective in remote villages to lessons learned about empathy and resilience, this conversation is as inspiring as the journey itself—topped off with a very special project that brings it all full circle. Stay curious! Transcript. Check out Michael's videos on his Instagram account: @theprojectkosmos

Season 3 Episodes (2024-2025 school year)

Season 3, Episode 8: How CFCU Is Redefining Banking with Heart: A Conversation with Tansley Stearns

In this episode of Mustang Moments, Superintendent Dr. RJ Webber sits down with Tansley Stearns, President and CEO of Community Financial Credit Union (CFCU), to talk about how CFCU is redefining banking through empathy, education, and community impact. From supporting student-run credit unions in schools to launching innovative programs that help survivors of domestic violence, Tansley shares how CFCU walks alongside people during their most challenging moments. Learn how initiatives like “Choose the Bear” are changing the conversation around financial empowerment and trust. Stay Curious! Podcast Transcript.

Season 3, Episode 7: School Bus Driver Phyllis White is Driven by Purpose and Guided by Compassion

In this heartfelt episode of Mustang Moments, Superintendent Dr. RJ Webber sits down with one of Northville's most beloved school bus drivers, Phyllis White. With a powerful story that spans corrections, law enforcement, and now over a decade of service behind the wheel, Phyllis shares how her life experiences shape the way she protects, connects with, and champions our students—especially those with special needs. On this School Bus Driver Appreciation Day, we invite you to listen in as Phyllis reminds us all of the unseen strength, compassion, and dedication that rides along every route. Her story is one of resilience, faith, and love—a perfect reflection of what makes Northville Public Schools truly exceptional. Stay curious! Transcript.

Season 3, Episode 6: Illustrating Inclusion: Hadley Bugar’s Journey to Published Art

In this episode of Mustang Moments, Dr. Webber talks with Northville alum Hadley Bugar, the talented illustrator behind ⁠A Friend Like Lucy⁠. Hadley shares her journey from Northville High School graduate to published illustrator, discussing the importance of authentic disability representation in children’s literature, the creative process behind the book, and the impact of storytelling through art. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about passion, perseverance, and the power of inclusive storytelling! Stay curious! Transcript.

Season 3, Episode 5: Creating a Culture of Inclusion: Mary Curran’s Journey in Special Education

In this episode of Mustang Moments, Superintendent Dr. RJ Webber sits down with Northville alumna and Hillside Middle School teacher Mary Curran. Mary shares her inspiring journey from student to educator, her passion for inclusion, and how she helped grow Northville's Unified program. From launching peer mentorship initiatives to organizing Silent Discos, Mary is a driving force in fostering belonging for students with autism and disabilities. Tune in to hear how she and her students are shaping a more inclusive future—one high-five at a time! Stay curious! Transcript.

Season 3, Episode 4: School Board Service: Lisa McIntyre on Leadership and Advocacy

In this episode of Mustang Moments, Superintendent Dr. RJ Webber sits down with Northville Public Schools Board of Education President Lisa McIntyre. From her early days in Fort Wayne, Indiana, to her journey into school leadership, Lisa shares her passion for education, mental health advocacy, and the importance of servant leadership. She also provides insight into what it takes to be a school board member, the challenges of decision-making in public education, and the joy of seeing students succeed. Whether you're curious about school governance or looking for inspiration in community leadership, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways. Stay curious! Transcript.

Season 3, Episode 3: A Pathway to Joy: Hannah Jahshan’s Mission for Mental Health Awareness

In this heartfelt episode of Mustang Moments, Dr. RJ Webber sits down with Northville High School alumna, Hannah Jahshan, Class of 2022. Hannah shares her inspiring journey from navigating her own mental health challenges to founding A Pathway to Joy, a non-profit dedicated to mental health awareness and suicide prevention. Learn how this Northville native is breaking down stigmas, empowering youth, and creating a supportive community through innovative initiatives like Camp Joy. Tune in for practical insights, heartfelt reflections, and a reminder of the power of love, patience, and connection. Stay curious! Transcript.

Season 3, Episode 2: Rocketing into the Future: The NHS Aerospace Club Journey

In this special episode of Mustang Moments, Dr. RJ Webber sits down with Northville High School’s Aerospace Club students. Listen in as they share the thrill of building high-powered rockets, preparing for national competitions, and their passion for aerospace engineering. From the Artemis program to high-flying rocket projects, these students are pushing boundaries and inspiring the next generation of innovators in STEM. Stay curious! Transcript.

Season 3, Episode 1: Finding Strength Through Transitions: A Conversation with Principal Melissa Provo

In this episode of Mustang Moments, Superintendent Dr. RJ Webber sits down with Melissa Provo, the newly appointed principal of Meads Mill Middle School. Melissa shares her inspiring journey from a challenging upbringing to becoming a dedicated leader in education. With candid reflections on the power of relationships, the importance of coaching, and her passion for middle school students, Melissa offers insights into how transitions, both personal and professional, have shaped her leadership style. Tune in for an authentic conversation about resilience, empathy, and the impact of a supportive community. Stay curious! Transcript.

Season 2 Episodes (2023-2024 school year)

Season 2, Episode 10: Reflecting on a Legacy in School Finance with Mike Zopf

In this special episode of Mustang Moments, we bid farewell to Mike Zopf, Northville Public Schools' retiring Assistant Superintendent of Finance. Mike shares his reflections on a distinguished career dedicated to ensuring the financial health and success of our district. From managing school budgets to navigating financial challenges, Mike has played a pivotal role in shaping the quality of education in Northville. Join us as we explore his journey, the evolution of school finance, and the lasting impact of his work on our community. Don't miss this insightful conversation celebrating the legacy of a true Mustang leader. Stay curious! Podcast Transcript.

Season 2, Episode 9: Harmonizing Dreams: Johanne Ray-Hepp's Musical Journey

Join Superintendent Dr. RJ Webber as he delves into the inspiring story of Johanne Ray-Hepp, the dedicated orchestra director at Northville Public Schools, in this enriching episode of "Mustang Moments." Discover how Johanne's early experiences in Detroit and Southfield ignited her passion for music, leading her to explore and excel in the world of orchestral music. Despite the Northville Public Schools' orchestra program being relatively new, established just a few years ago, Johanne's exceptional direction has already garnered high praise. This year marks a significant milestone as the program expands into its first year at the high school level. Tune in for a compelling conversation that celebrates the power of music education, the importance of mentorship, and the remarkable achievements of Johanne Ray-Hepp and her students. Stay curious! Transcript.

Season 2, Episode 8: Legacy of Leadership: A Farewell Conversation with Principal Brad O'Neill

In this episode of Mustang Moments, join Superintendent Dr. RJ Webber as he sits down with Meads Mill Middle School Principal Brad O'Neill, who is retiring after 34 years in public education. As they reflect on Brad's journey from his upbringing in Detroit to his impactful career in Northville, they delve into the influences that shaped his path into education, the memorable moments throughout his tenure, and the enduring values of community and diversity that have defined Northville Public Schools. From his dedication to coaching hockey to the challenges of leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic, Brad shares insights, anecdotes, and heartfelt reflections on his remarkable legacy of leadership and service to the Northville community. Stay curious! Transcript.

Season 2, Episode 7: A Sixth Grader's Journey to Becoming an Author

For this episode of Mustang Moments, Superintendent Dr. RJ Webber invites a very special guest, 6th-grade student and published author Sriya Kuppa, along with her father, Srinivas. Sriya shares her journey from being a young storyteller inspired by "The Lion Guard" to becoming the author of "Tales from the African Wild," a collection of heartwarming stories featuring lessons about courage, family, and empathy. Dr. Webber and Sriya delve into the creative process, what inspired her to write, and the invaluable support she received from her father and her teachers along the way. Join us as Sriya reads excerpts from her book, discusses the themes behind her stories, and offers insights into what it means to be a young author. Learn about the obstacles she overcame, the joy of seeing her work in print, and the advice she has for other aspiring writers. Stay curious! Transcript.

Season 2, Episode 6: Championing Inclusion: A Conversation with Kelsey Mikiciuk

Join Superintendent Dr. Webber and Northville High School Special Ed teacher Kelsey Mikiciuk in a heartfelt conversation about their journey towards creating inclusive environments for students with diverse needs. From pioneering peer mentorship programs to the joy of unified athletics, they share stories of resilience, compassion, and the power of community. Explore the transformative impact of Inclusion Week and the collaborative efforts shaping a brighter future for all students in Northville Public Schools. Stay Curious! Transcript.

Season 2, Episode 5: From Curiosity to Creation: NHS Student Shares Story Behind 'Reveal the Ingredient' App

Join Superintendent Dr. RJ Webber in a captivating episode of Mustang Moments as he sits down with the brilliant Sanjana Duttagupta, a senior at Northville High School. In this episode, they unravel the inspiring journey from curiosity to creation, exploring Sanjana's development of the groundbreaking iOS application, "Reveal the Ingredient." Dive into the story of how a simple curiosity during the pandemic led Sanjana to create an app that detects and analyzes chemical ingredients, providing vital information about potential health impacts. From the early days of Visual Basic and Arduino experimentation to the evolution of the app using Swift and Java, this episode showcases the power of curiosity, perseverance, and the fusion of technology with aesthetics. Discover how Sanjana's personal project unfolded during her sophomore year, leading to the development of a life-changing app that empowers users to make informed choices about the products they use every day. Stay curious! Transcript

Season 2, Episode 4: A Teacher's Heartfelt Mission to Support Our Troops

For this episode of Mustang Moments, Superintendent Dr. RJ Webber interviews Jen Lawson, a teacher at Hillside Middle School. Jen shares an emotional journey of supporting the military through heartfelt acts of kindness. The podcast revolves around a special flag flown by Jen's father in Vietnam, now a symbol of gratitude for troops worldwide. From care packages to connecting with military personnel, Jen's initiatives showcase the power of small gestures. Stay curious! Transcript.

Season 2, Episode 3: Athletic Director Brian Samulski Reflects on Path to His Dream Job

For this episode of Mustang Moments, Superintendent Dr. RJ Webber sits down with our athletic director, Brian Samulski. Brian shares his journey from growing up in Canton, playing basketball, to becoming a key figure in one of Michigan's top school districts. Discover the influences, memories, and pivotal moments that shaped his perspective on sports and education. Stay curious! Transcript.

Season 2, Episode 2: Jackson Garland's Journey of Being a Global Educator

For this episode of Mustang Moments, Superintendent Dr. RJ Webber sits down with Jackson Garland, a teacher at Northville High School. Mr. Garland explains his extensive international teaching experience, his transition back to the United States, and his diverse interests in education, journalism, film, and music. Stay curious! Transcript.

Season 2, Episode 1: Community Events Around Suicide Awareness Month

For this episode of Mustang Moments, Superintendent Dr. RJ Webber sits down with Beth Santer, the executive director of Special Services at Northville Public Schools. Ms. Santer spotlights community events that are happening during the month of September for Suicide Awareness Month. For more details about the events, check out the September Suicide Prevention Awareness Month flyer. Stay curious! Transcript

Season 1 Episodes

Episode 7: Northville Varsity Girls Soccer Coach Jeannine Reddy Breaks Down Her Love for the Game

For this episode of Mustang Moments, Superintendent Dr. RJ Webber talks to Northville Varsity Girls Soccer Coach, Jeannine Reddy. Coach Reddy talks about how and when she started playing soccer. Plus, she reflects on her coaching journey and what it's like coaching boys and girls soccer and the competitiveness of travel teams. Coach Reddy explained what it was like becoming the new girls soccer coach at Northville and how the team has evolved. They are currently one of the top ranked teams in the state. Transcript

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Episode 6: The Volunteer Gardener That Spruces Up Our Schools

For this episode of Mustang Moments, Superintendent Dr. RJ Webber talks to the lady with the green thumb, Jean Gertley. To celebrate National Volunteer Recognition Week and Earth Day, what better person to get to know than Jean Gertley. Jean has been sprucing up our schools for several years. She loves getting the kids involved and the kids love helping her! She is a dental hygienist by trade, substitute teacher whenever possible and the hardest working volunteer gardener Northville has ever seen. Jean shares where her green thumb came from, her proudest projects, and what keeps her going. Stay curious! Transcript

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Episode 5: Learn about the Leader of our Littlest Learners

For this episode of Mustang Moments, Superintendent Dr. RJ Webber talks to Chelsea Simons, NPS Early Childhood Education and Extended Day Program Coordinator. Chelsea passionately explains where she fell in love with wanting to be an early childhood educator. She also outlines what our program offers and what a complete day looks like for our preschoolers. A couple of our preschool classrooms are piloting a curriculum called High Scope, which Chelsea and Dr. Webber dive into and explain. Dr. Webber also throws a couple curious questions at Chelsea about what her dream outdoor learning space would look like for our preschoolers. Stay curious! Transcript

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Episode 4: Genna Davis Shares Her Parent Involvement and Latest Fundraising Efforts

For this episode of Mustang Moments, Superintendent Dr. RJ Webber talks to Genna Davis who is a parent in the district. She explains her latest fundraising campaign for new playground equipment at Amerman Elementary. Genna also talks about how she grew up in the Northville Public School system and why she wanted her kids to go to school here too. Dr. Webber also uncovers one of Genna's favorite passions: collecting and rebuilding old trucks. Wait until you hear Genna light up while talking about her trucks! That's why it's important to always stay curious! Transcript.

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Episode 3: NHS Student Congress President Shares His Leadership Journey at NPS

For this episode of Mustang Moments, Superintendent Dr. RJ Webber brings in Zach Ajluni, 12th grader at Northville High School. Zach is also the Student Congress president and shares his leadership journey at Northville Public Schools. He explains where he caught the leadership bug and why he thinks we have the best Freshman Orientation in the area! Plus, Dr. Webber challenges Zach with a couple curious questions. Stay curious! Transcript

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Episode 2: Mike Rumbell, NHS Band Director

For this episode of Mustang Moments, Superintendent Dr. RJ Webber sits down with one of our longest standing staff members, Mike Rumbell. Mr. Rumbell is the band director at Northville High School. He has worked at Northville Public Schools for 49 years! Mr. Rumbell shares his inspirations, where he got his love of music from, who he's performed with and all the different venues. You will be in awe of this man's story! Transcript

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Episode 1: INAUGURAL Podcast Featuring Katie Rork

Superintendent Dr. RJ Webber kicks off our inaugural podcast by chatting with Katie Rork, the district communications specialist, about starting this podcast and her role. Ms. Rork was a television news anchor for 10 years prior to starting at Northville Public Schools. She talks about her new video series called Classroom Close-Up, which can be viewed on the district's website and social media pages. Stay curious! Transcript

Northville Public Schools Presents: Mustang Moments with Superintendent Dr. RJ Webber