The Inside Wayzata Podcast
Inside Wayzata is your exclusive backstage pass to Wayzata Public Schools! We dive deep into the heart of our district, featuring insightful conversations with students, teachers, administrators, and community members. Discover innovative programs, celebrate inspiring achievements, and gain insights into the important topics and vibrant voices dedicated to creating an exceptional learning environment for each and every student in Wayzata Public Schools.
Episodes
33 episodes
Prepared, Not Scared: Talking School Safety | The Inside Wayzata Podcast
This episode focuses on how Wayzata Public Schools approaches safety as more than just locks and hardware. Assistant Director of Safety and Emergency Management Meg Soultz shares how her background in EMS, law enforcement, and school resource w...
Why This Superintendent Says the Best Schools Are Built Together
Dr. Robb Virgin reflects on his first months as superintendent of Wayzata, the energy of the new school year, and what has stood out most as he’s gotten to know the district. The conversation focuses on culture, operations, student belonging, a...
Passion and Purpose: The Heart of Coaching | The Inside Wayzata Podcast
In this episode of The Inside Wayzata Podcast, new high school coaches Sara Ridley, Derrin Lamker, and Jean Viardin discuss their motivations for coaching, their coaching philosophies, and the expectations associated with being part of the Wayz...
Leadership, Belonging & Kindergarten Readiness - Back to School | The Inside Wayzata Podcast
In this episode of The Inside Wayzata Podcast, we talk with Jenny Berg, principal at North Woods Elementary, and Jen Fuzzey, associate principal, about the excitement and challenges of back-to-school season. They share how North Woods builds a ...
How Middle Schools Help Build Confidence in Students | The Inside Wayzata Podcast
This episode of The Inside Wayzata Podcast focuses on what makes the middle school transition work, from sixth grade welcome events to advisory, student leadership, and day zero. East Middle School principal Meg Bennett and West Middle School p...
Back to School at Wayzata High School | The Inside Wayzata Podcast
In this episode of The Inside Wayzata Podcast, we go inside Wayzata High School to talk about what back-to-school season really looks like for students, staff, and families. From freshman orientation day to student support teams, Link Crew, aca...
Post-Referendum: What Comes Next?
In this episode, we explore the planning, development, and community impact of new school projects post-referendum with Chace Anderson. Discover how strategic property purchases and community support are shaping the future of education infrastr...
Lessons from Three Retiring Principals: A Journey Through Education
This episode features three retiring elementary school principals, Mary McKasy of Gleason Lake, Karen Keffeler of Meadow Ridge, and Ross Williams of Sunset Hill, they share insights on their careers, the evolution of education, and their person...
Building Inclusion and Leadership: The Power of Unified at West Middle
In this episode, we explore how West Middle School’s innovative Unified program fosters inclusion, leadership, and community engagement among students, staff, and families. Join us for insights on creating a culture of belonging that extends be...
Meet the New Superintendent! - The Inside Wayzata Podcast
In this episode, Dr. Robb Virgin shares his journey to becoming the superintendent of Wayzata, his leadership philosophy, and his vision for the district's future. Topics include community engagement, student voice, high standards, innovation, ...
Let's Talk to Some Teachers for Teacher Appreciation Week
In this episode, Zach Nelson chats with Carter Berkelman and Terah Knutsen about their experiences in teaching, the evolving classroom environment, and what keeps them motivated. Discover heartfelt stories, insights on building relationships, a...
Winter Storm Warning Ride Along with Dr. Chace Anderson
We tried something different for this episode of The Inside Wayzata Podcast. Overnight on April 2, 2026, we were under a Winter Storm Warning. When we have chances for heavy snow or ice, Dr. Chace Anderson often gets up extra early to get the l...
How Satellite Kitchens Impact Student Nutrition and Experience | The Inside Wayzata Podcast
This episode explores the impact of satellite kitchens on student experience, the logistical challenges of current food service operations, and how reimagining school kitchen facilities can enhance nutrition, efficiency, and student engagement....
The Benefits of a Dedicated High School Swimming Facility | The Inside Wayzata Podcast
This episode of The Inside Wayzata Podcast features experts discussing the need for a dedicated high school swimming pool in Wayzata. They explore logistical challenges of current shared facilities, benefits of on-campus pools, and community im...
How An Elementary School Creates a Community Where Kids Matter | The Inside Wayzata Podcast
In this episode, Ashley Farrington, principal of Birchview Elementary and 2025 Minnesota National Distinguished Principal, shares insights on fostering community, literacy, and student success. Discover how his leadership, community engagement,...
The Future of School Tech: Balancing Devices, Safety, and Learning
In this episode, Wade Phillips, Director of Technology in Wayzata, discusses the evolution of technology in schools, the importance of a balanced approach to device use, and the critical role of safety and security. He explains the details of t...
The Future of High School Education (Career and Technical Education) | The Inside Wayzata Podcast
This episode of The Inside Wayzata Podcast discusses the importance of Career and Technical Education (CTE) in Wayzata Public Schools, focusing on the upcoming referendum and the need for expanded CTE programs. The conversation highlights the b...
Discussing the Wayzata Public Schools Referendum with Dr. Anderson | The Inside Wayzata Podcast
In this episode, Dr. Chace Anderson discusses the upcoming referendum for Wayzata Public Schools, highlighting the need for new facilities, the importance of strategic partnerships, and the district's financial stability. The conversation cover...
Empowering Students Through Mentorship
On this episode of The Inside Wayzata Podcast, host Zach Nelson engages with guests Jess Duncan, Tim Sievert, and student Brooklyn to discuss the Career and Technical Education (CTE) and COMPASS program at Wayzata High School. The conversation ...
Navigating Change and Supporting Teachers at Kimberly Lane | The Inside Wayzata Podcast
In this episode of the Inside Wayzata Podcast, we interview Dr. Kari Wehrmann, the principal of Kimberly Lane Elementary. Dr. Wehrmann shares her insights on what makes Kimberly Lane special, emphasizing the strong community ties among families...
12 Years of Service: Reflections with Sarah Johansen | The Inside Wayzata Podcast
In this episode, Sarah Johansen reflects on her 12-year tenure on the Wayzata School Board, discussing her decision to step down, the lessons learned, and the evolving needs of students and families. She emphasizes the importance of community e...
Empowering Students Through Career and Technical Education | The Inside Wayzata Podcast
This episode of The Inside Wayzata Podcast explores the impact of Career and Technical Education (CTE) at Wayzata High School, featuring insights from Scott, the CTE coordinator, and students Noah and Reese. They discuss the strategic organizat...
"Parenting is hard." - Navigating Parenting Challenges on The Inside Wayzata Podcast
In this episode of The Inside Wayzata Podcast, Naomi Huso, a licensed parent educator, discusses the complexities of parenting young children. The conversation covers various themes including behavior and discipline, emotional coaching, establi...
Exploring Community Ed's Unique Value
The Inside Wayzata Podcast episode celebrates National Community Ed Day by exploring the impact and offerings of community education in the Wayzata school district. We discuss the diverse programs available for all ages, from early childhood to...
The Fall Musical - Anything Goes with Wayzata High School Students and Staff
On today's episode, Zach sits down with the director and a couple of stars from the fall musical at Wayzata High School: Anything Goes!The conversation emphasizes the significance of community involvement in local high school musicals, ...