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In this exciting episode, Brooklyn Martinez sits down with the incredible 8th grader, Miss Kendall Mehl, as she prepares to compete in her 3rd Scripps National Spelling Bee May 26-28. From studying hundreds of challenging words to staying calm under pressure, Kendall shares what the journey to the national stage has really been like. We talk about the dedication, discipline, and support system that helped her reach this milestone for three consecutive years, as well as the ups and downs that come with competing at such a high level.

Listeners will get a behind-the-scenes look at how spelling bee competitors prepare, including study routines, favorite words, toughest pronunciations, and strategies for handling nerves during competition. We also explore how this experience has built confidence, opened new opportunities, and inspired others to pursue their own goals, no matter how big they may seem.

Whether you’re a student, parent, teacher, or simply someone who loves hearing stories about determination and achievement, this episode is full of inspiration, motivation, and a reminder that hard work truly pays off. Don’t miss this conversation with a young competitor proving that passion and perseverance can take you all the way to the national spotlight.

If your interested in learning how Kendall prepared for her first time, compared to her third time, listen to her 1st podcast episode here. ⬇️

https://open.spotify.com/episode/3xTPH45SrDPXfszAdpYBTi

If would like to follow Kendall on her journey this year, visit the link below. ⬇️

https://spellingbee.com/watch

Intro/Outro Music: “Motivated” by Alex MakesMusic
Date Recorded: May 1st, 2026.
Brooklyn M edited this episode, and Ollie S recorded sound.

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In this special 2026 graduation episode, Greylin, Brooklyn, and Callie sit down with this year’s valedictorian, Brooke Bergman, and salutatorian, Katie Cardenas, to hear the stories behind their success. From late nights of studying to the moments that nearly broke them, they open up about the challenges, sacrifices, and motivations that shaped their high school journey.

We dive into what it really takes to rise to the top of the class, how they handled pressure and expectations, and the lessons they’re carrying into the next chapter of their lives. Along the way, you’ll hear advice for underclassmen, reflections on friendships and growth, and a candid look at what success means beyond grades.

Whether you're a student, parent, or just someone who loves hearing inspiring stories, this episode offers an honest and motivating conversation with two students who made their mark on the Class of 2026.

This episode was edited by Brooklyn M. and sound recorded by Ollie S.

Intro/Outro Music: “Motivated” by Alex MakesMusic
Date Recorded: April 1st, 2026.

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Email: podcast@otsegoknights.org
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In this episode, William Krupp interviews 2012 Otsego graduate Kevin Vollmar to talk about his role as the assistant Cross Country coach and the Distant Coach for Track, as well as the creator of the Otsego Distance website. He shares ways to set distance runners up for success when it matters most. From summer mileage to championship tapering, we walk through the key phases of training and how to adjust for different experience levels on your team.

You’ll hear practical tips on balancing intensity and recovery, avoiding burnout, and keeping athletes motivated through the middle of the season. We also dig into common mistakes coaches make when planning workouts and how small adjustments can lead to big improvements by the end of the year.

Whether you are aiming for a conference title or a runner who is just getting started, this episode will give you a clear framework to success.

Check out Kevin’s Otsego Distance website here —> https://www.otsegodistance.com/

This episode was edited by both Julian Downard and Ace F., and sound recorded by Callie Palmer.

Intro/Outro Music: “Motivated” by Alex MakesMusic
Date Recorded: April 27th, 2026.

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In this episode, Callie Palmer and Lavender Krupp sit down with four members of the Downey family to honor the life and legacy of Tim Downey: a beloved coach, mentor, husband, and father whose impact continues to be felt far beyond the track. Inducted into the Otsego Hall of Fame and remembered through the Tim Downey Invitational, his dedication to his athletes and community left a lasting mark.

This episode features a heartfelt conversation with his wife, Deb, and three of his five sons—Shaun, Travis, and Drew—who share personal stories and reflections that bring his legacy to life.

Known especially for his work as a pole vault coach, Coach Downey went above and beyond to give his athletes opportunities he never had. Growing up without access to top-level equipment, he made it his mission to ensure his vaulters, and his own sons, had the very best. He invested not just resources, but countless hours of his own time, constantly working to improve the program and create a safe, competitive environment where athletes could thrive.

Through their voices, we explore what made Coach Downey so influential—not just in competition, but in character. From his relentless dedication to the Otsego track program to the values he instilled in his family and athletes, his impact continues to inspire.

This episode was edited by Julian Downard and sound recorded by Ollie Schroeder.

Intro/Outro Music: “Motivated” by Alex MakesMusic
Date Recorded: March 17th, 2026.

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Email: podcast@otsegoknights.org
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Student Video Show on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@lateknightsroundtablepodcast?feature=shared

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In this episode, Lavender Krupp and Callie Palmer explore the imaginative world of “what if” storytelling through the cast and crew of an alternate-reality play set in our beloved town of Tontogany.

In their upcoming production, Madge Brown, Hannah Grohowski, Hannah Bergfeld, and the rest of the lively crew dive into how a single changed decision, moment, or outcome can completely reshape a story. From reimagined endings to unexpected twists on familiar moments, this episode highlights the creative spark behind asking, “But what if?”

Whether you love theater, enjoy writing, or just find yourself wondering how life in Tontogany might have looked if things had gone differently, this performance—and this conversation—will leave you seeing every story, maybe even your own, in a whole new way.

* In addition, check out our previous episode about “Who Killed Olive Peony?”, the Tontogany Murder Mystery this cast and crew performed last summer for Tontogany’s 150th anniversary episode: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0EKqoe5rD04wMNqprC4Nzr?si=lFvye9bSTZ-OneRp34gRiA

* Madge Brown’s May 2024 feature episode: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7vUp6P9z8A98aOX1zRWewC?si=ZcX8-5Q5SMKYEI3ONp5ylQ

This episode was edited by Ace F. and sound recorded by Ollie S.

Intro/Outro Music: “Motivated” by Alex MakesMusic
Date Recorded: March 31st, 2026.

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In this episode of our podcast, interviewers Ashton Coleman, William Krupp, and Callie Palmer shine a spotlight on a true Otsego legend—Mr. Johnny Serrato. Known across the district as the undisputed GOAT of kickball and the greatest pitcher to ever step on the playground, Mr. Johnny has turned ordinary recess moments into unforgettable memories for generations of students.

But his impact doesn’t stop at the blacktop. As a beloved bus driver, he’s been a steady, positive presence in students’ daily lives—greeting them with energy, humor, and consistency every single day.

Through stories and reflections, we explore what makes Mr. Johnny so special: his competitive spirit, his connection with students, and the way he brings joy and community wherever he goes.

Whether it’s striking out kickball legends or driving the morning route, Mr. Johnny proves that greatness isn’t just about skill—it’s about showing up, caring deeply, and making a lasting impact.

Tune in as we celebrate a local icon who has truly earned his title.

This episode was edited by Brooklyn M., and sound recorded by Ollie S.

Intro/Outro Music: “Motivated” by Alex MakesMusic
Date Recorded: March 30th, 2026.

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Email: podcast@otsegoknights.org
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In this episode, Greylin Durbin and Brooklyn Martinez sit down with Otsego Superintendent, Kevin O'Shea, and District Treasurer, Steve Carroll, for an insightful conversation about the upcoming May levy and what it means for the future of Otsego Local Schools. Mr. O'Shea and Mr. Carroll break down the purpose of the levy, how the funds would be used, and the impact it could have on students, staff, and the community.

We discuss the financial challenges the school is currently facing, what’s at stake if the levy does or does not pass, and how decisions are made when it comes to budgeting and educational priorities. The superintendent shares a vision for maintaining quality education, while the treasurer provides a clear and transparent look at the district’s finances.

Whether you're a parent, student, or community member, this episode offers valuable information to help you better understand the levy and make an informed decision. Tune in to hear directly from school leadership and get answers to the questions that matter most.

This episode was edited by Brooklyn Martinez and sound recorded by Callie Palmer.

Intro/Outro Music: “Motivated” by Alex MakesMusic
Date Recorded: March 24th, 2026.

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In this episode, Lavender Krupp and Ashton Coleman welcome the arrival of spring by sitting down with 2025 graduate Lila Seeger, 7th-grade science teacher Molly Duhamel, and Black Swamp Conservancy Director Rob Krain. Together, they reflect on how the Fox-Shank Living Laboratory program has grown and evolved over its three years of existence. Lila shares how she used the property for her Eagle Scout project, Mrs. Duhamel discusses the changes she has observed through her students’ experiences, and Rob offers insight into the program’s origins and the vision for its future.

This episode was edited by Ace, and sound recorded by Ollie S.

Missed the first two Fox-Shank episodes? Check them out here:

Part 1 with Jackie Fox and Rob Krain: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5igZJhu95UJ6dOwgzVTGhw?si=e-LEBbR6QKGpxUw9KyAYLg

Part 2 with Molly Duhamel and Bob Furlong: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5k6IiiWXrvqunjD1YFNhj1?si=MVs6pY_dQsOXwUGoWxQiMw

Intro/Outro Music: “Motivated” by Alex MakesMusic
Dates Recorded: March 19th, 2026.

FOLLOW OUR SOCIALS:
Twitter: @OHS_RoundTable
Instagram: @ohs_roundtable
Email: podcast@otsegoknights.org
tiktok: @ohs_roundtable
Student Video Show on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@lateknightsroundtablepodcast?feature=shared