As we close out an inspiring first season of The Bulldog Mindset, I want to thank you—our listeners—for joining the journey. Whether you tuned in to hear from our students, faculty, staff, your support has helped spotlight the incredible people shaping Gardner-Webb University.

This brief tease is a heartfelt thank you—and a hint of what’s to come. Season Two promises even more powerful stories, fresh voices, and meaningful conversations that reflect the spirit of transformation and tenacity that defines the Bulldog Mindset.

🎧 Stay connected, stay curious, and we’ll see you soon.

Learn more at gardner-webb.edu/podcast

Music: “Honey for Nothing” by Ikoliks

#BulldogMindset #GardnerWebb #ThankYou #PodcastWrap #SeasonTwoComingSoon #GWUPodcast #Transformation #StayTuned

From the hospital floor to the highest level of academic leadership, Dr. Nicole Waters has built a career grounded in care, excellence, and vision. As Interim Provost and Chief Academic Officer at Gardner-Webb University, she brings more than a decade of experience—shaping healthcare education, mentoring students, and now guiding the academic enterprise through a pivotal season of transition.

In this season finale, host Dr. Greg Pillar sits down with Dr. Waters to explore her inspiring journey from nursing to the provost’s office, the lessons she’s learned along the way, and her hopes for Gardner-Webb’s future. You’ll also hear a fun “Office Hours” lightning round, uncovering what’s always on her desk—and what keeps her motivated.

Whether you’re a student, faculty member, or higher ed enthusiast, this episode is a heartfelt reflection on leadership, legacy, and the Bulldog Mindset in action.

Tune in now to explore how curiosity, mentorship, and hands-on experience are shaping student success at Gardner-Webb. Learn more about GWU’s podcast series at gardner-webb.edu/podcast.

Music for this episode: “Honey for Nothing” by Ikoliks.

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#GardnerWebb

#GWUPodcast

#SeasonFinale

#HigherEdLeadership

#LeadWithPurpose

#AcademicLeadership

#WomenInLeadership

#ProvostPerspective

#LeadingWithHeart

#NurseToLeader

#FromCareToCampus

#Great100Nurses

#HealthcareEducation

#ThisIsGWU

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#GWUVoices

Welcome to The Bulldog Mindset Podcast, where we explore the stories, scholarship, and soul of Gardner-Webb University. Hosted by Dr. Greg Pillar, this episode features Dr. Jonathan Ahearn—GWU alumnus, Chair of the Department of Exercise Science, and a professor who blends faith, science, and service in everything he does.

From walking on to the baseball team to leading one of GWU’s most dynamic academic programs, Dr. Ahearn shares how adversity, mentorship, and a holistic view of health have shaped his journey. You'll hear how he’s preparing students for impactful careers in sports, physical therapy, and beyond—while staying rooted in mission and calling.

Whether you're interested in the future of Exercise Science, the power of mentorship, or how faith shapes education, this episode offers inspiration and insight.

🎧 Tune in now to explore how curiosity, mentorship, and hands-on experience are shaping student success at Gardner-Webb.

Learn more about GWU’s podcast series at gardner-webb.edu/podcast.

🎵 Music: “Honey for Nothing” by Ikoliks.

#BulldogMindset #GardnerWebb #ExerciseScience #FaithAndFitness #MentorshipMatters #HolisticHealth #BulldogBeyond #GWUAlumni #HigherEdPodcast #StrengthInService

expertise of those shaping the Gardner-Webb University experience. Hosted by Dr. Greg Pillar, this series highlights the faculty, students, and leaders who bring innovation, energy, and impact to education every day.

In this episode, Dr. Heather Wright—Early Career Award recipient and English education coordinator—shares her journey from K-12 classrooms to higher ed, reflecting on her academic roots, rural education research, and the surprising power of TikTok in shaping teacher identity. A proud GWU alumna, Dr. Wright opens up about mentorship, adaptability in online teaching, and the enduring value of English studies in a changing world.

Whether you're an aspiring educator, a current student, or someone curious about the future of teaching, this episode offers compelling insights and plenty of authentic moments.

Tune in now to explore how curiosity, mentorship, and hands-on experience are shaping student success at Gardner-Webb. Learn more about GWU’s podcast series at gardner-webb.edu/podcast.

Theme Music: “Honey for Nothing” by Ikoliks.

#BulldogMindset #GardnerWebb #EnglishEducation #TeacherMentor #EdResearch #RuralEducation #HigherEdInnovation #BulldogBeyond #GWUVoices

In this episode of the Bulldog Mindset, we’re joined by Holly Mabry—Digital Commons and Accessibility Services Librarian at Gardner-Webb—whose work redefines what it means to create accessible, equitable, and inclusive digital environments. As someone who is both hearing and visually impaired, Holly offers a powerful lens on persistence, advocacy, and universal design in higher education.

We dive into her personal journey, her role in shaping digital scholarship, and how she’s helping faculty, staff, and students think differently about accessibility—from everyday tools to transformative mindset shifts. Plus, a sneak peek at her upcoming PACE course on Digital Accessibility and Universal Design.

Join the The Bulldog Mindset Podcast, where we explore the minds, passions, and expertise of those shaping the Gardner-Webb University experience. Hosted by Dr. Greg Pillar, this series highlights the faculty, students, and leaders who bring innovation, energy, and impact to education every day.

Tune in now to discover how Holly’s leadership is helping create a campus where everyone belongs. Learn more about Gardner-Webb’s podcast series at gardner-webb.edu/podcast.

#BulldogMindset #GardnerWebb #AccessibilityMatters #UniversalDesign #InclusiveEducation #DigitalCommons #BulldogsBeyond

In this heartfelt episode of Dawg Tracks, host Noel T. Manning II sits down with Pam Scruggs—recently retired Associate Athletics Director and Senior Women’s Administrator at Gardner-Webb University—to reflect on her extraordinary 45-year career. From humble beginnings in 1980 as an administrative assistant to earning emeritus status and Hall of Fame honors, Pam’s journey is a story of perseverance, servant leadership, and deep community roots.

Known as the backbone of GWU Athletics, Pam has helped shape the personal and professional lives of countless student-athletes, always with grace, dedication, and a can-do spirit. Hear how mentors shaped her, what kept her committed to the Gardner-Webb family for over four decades, and why her legacy will live on far beyond her final day in office.

🎧 Tune in to celebrate a true Bulldog legend and gain insight into the heart of GWU Athletics.

🔗 Listen to all Gardner-Webb podcasts at gardner-webb.edu/podcasts

🎟 Stay up-to-date on Runnin’ Bulldogs sports and grab tickets at gwusports.com

#DawgTracks #GardnerWebb #GWUAthletics #PamScruggs #BulldogLegend #WomenInSports #GWUPodcast #RunninBulldogs #Leadership #AthleticsAdministration #SportsLegacy

Welcome to The Bulldog Mindset Podcast, where we explore the minds, passions, and expertise of those shaping the Gardner-Webb University experience. Hosted by Dr. Greg Pillar, this series spotlights the students, faculty, and leaders driving innovation, energy, and impact across campus.

In this inspiring episode, we celebrate Entrepreneurship Week at GWU with special guests Dr. Mischia Taylor, Dean of the Godbold College of Business, and Lily Streeton, winner of the Dawg Pitch Competition. Dr. Taylor shares her vision for cultivating entrepreneurial thinking through real-world experiences like the pitch event, while Lily reveals the journey behind Eden—her innovative garden planning software rooted in sustainability and a love for agriculture.

From overcoming self-doubt to embracing bold ideas, this conversation digs into what it takes to lead with purpose, dream big, and take the first step toward change.

Tune in now and discover how Gardner-Webb is helping students plant seeds of innovation that can grow into lifelong success. Learn more at gardner-webb.edu/podcast.

#BulldogMindset #GardnerWebb #Entrepreneurship #DawgPitch #StudentInnovation #Leadership #SustainableLiving #CollegeCreativity

Welcome to The Bulldog Mindset Podcast (episode 7), where we explore the minds, passions, and expertise of those shaping the Gardner-Webb University experience. Hosted by Dr. Greg Pillar, this series highlights the faculty, students, and leaders who bring innovation, energy, and impact to education every day.

In this episode, Dr. Steven Harmon, professor of Historical Theology in the School of Divinity, joins us to share his remarkable journey through scholarship, ministry, and ecumenical dialogue. From presenting his work to the late Pope Francis and covering the Conclave and the naming of Pope Leo to exploring the theological imagination of U2, Harmon offers a fascinating glimpse into a life where music, faith, and academic excellence intersect.

We dive into how church history informs leadership today, why ecumenism matters more than ever, and what students can learn from connecting theology to real-world practice. Plus, don't miss the lightning round where we find out if Bach or Bono wins in a face-off!

Tune in now to discover how curiosity, unity, and a little rock 'n' roll help define the Bulldog Mindset at Gardner-Webb. Learn more about GWU’s podcast series at gardner-webb.edu/podcast.

#BulldogMindset#GardnerWebb #Theology #Ecumenism #MusicAndFaith #HigherEd #BulldogsBeyond #U2 #HigherEdPodcast#Bono