In this episode of WebbChat, host Noel T. Manning II welcomes Gardner-Webb University alumni Mike Shade and Eli Strait, creators of the wildly popular Chasing Scratch: A Golf Podcast.

Shade and Strait reflect on their time at Gardner-Webb University, where their friendship first took root, and share the story behind the genesis and evolution of the Chasing Scratch podcast. What began as a personal challenge to improve their golf games has grown into a beloved podcast with a devoted following and coverage from outlets like Golf Digest and other leading golf publications.

From college memories to the creative process behind podcasting, this conversation explores how two Runnin’ Bulldogs turned friendship, curiosity, and a shared love of the game into a successful and entertaining podcast.

To find out more about Mike and Eli, check out chasingscratchgolf.com.

Discover more podcasts from Gardner-Webb University at gardner-webb.edu/podcast.

Music featured in this episode:

“Reap What You Sow” and “Runnin’ Wild” by Carter McDevitt

#WebbChat

#GardnerWebb

#ChasingScratch

#GolfPodcast

#GolfLife

#PodcastInterview

#GWUAlumni

#RunninBulldogs

#GolfCommunity

#PodcastCreators

In Season 1, Episode 2 of The Parrott’s Perch, Dr. Josh Parrott sits down with Gardner-Webb University alumnus Jack Eason, Executive Stateside Director of CUPS Mission.

CUPS Mission works to enrich the lives of families in developing nations through education, discipleship, vocational training, and holistic community support. In this conversation, Jack shares how his time at Gardner-Webb helped shape his calling, what it means to lead a global ministry, and how faith fuels long-term service in communities facing poverty and human trafficking.

This episode explores leadership, resilience, global missions, and the everyday realities of living out one’s calling.

Listen to The Parrott’s Perch wherever you stream podcasts or visit: gardner-webb.edu/podcast

To learn more about Christian Life and Service at Gardner-Webb University, search “Christian Life and Service” at gardner-webb.edu.

#ParrottsPerch
#JackEason
#CUPSMission
#GlobalMissions
#FaithInAction
#ChristianLeadership
#GardnerWebb
#GWUAlumni
#CampusMinistry
#FaithAndService
#HumanTraffickingAwareness
#ChristianPodcast

Welcome to The Bulldog Mindset, where we explore purpose, people, and the work that brings Gardner-Webb University to life through learning, leadership, and service. Hosted by Dr. Greg Pillar, this podcast highlights the individuals building systems, shaping strategy, and strengthening the student experience every day.

In this episode, Dr. Kenneth Johnson, Executive Director of Student Success at Gardner-Webb, joins the conversation to unpack what student success truly means — and why it never happens by accident

From belonging and persistence research to retention strategy, advising systems, and career readiness alignment, Dr. Johnson shares how coordinated, intentional support structures help students move from entry to completion.

The discussion explores the hidden curriculum of college, the unique needs of online and residential learners, the role of technology in success coaching, and why human connection still leads. It’s an insightful look at the systems beneath the surface — and the leadership required to make them work.

Tune in to discover how belonging, clarity, and coordinated support shape stronger outcomes for students. Learn more about Gardner-Webb University and our podcast series at gardner-webb.edu/podcast.

#BulldogMindset #GardnerWebb #StudentSuccess #HigherEdLeadership #BelongingMatters #Retention #AcademicSuccess #PurposeDrivenLeadership