The Tuck Shop Podcast

Episode 101: Summer Series. Where's the summer? - Featuring Tony Golden

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 10:29:14 -0400

Matt and David launch the 2026 Summer Series with some interesting conversation, review of what the summer series actually is, and a quick rundown about some things coming up. We then revisit our interview with the legendary Tony Golden!

Contact Matt at: msernell@pitt.edu

Contact David at: dgj7@pitt.edu

Geosciences Pirates Game Link: https://www.gofevo.com/event/Upjgeosciences0814

Episode 100: We didn't get fired yet! Featuring Dr. Ray Wrabley

Wed, 20 May 2026 02:51:00 -0400

We made it to Episode 100! We needed something big, something huge, something that alumni across the generations will know for this one and we got him! Dr. Ray Wrabley sat down with Matt and David to record this special 100th Episode of the Tuck Shop Podcast. We talk about Ray's path to UPJ, teaching generations of students, being VPAA, and more!

Contact Matt at: msernell@pitt.edu

Contact David at: dgj7@pitt.edu

Episode 99: Finals Week 2026

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 03:06:00 -0400

It's finals week here at the best campus in the universe! That means David and Matt have their traditional end of term chat. We discover a class David may have to repeat and we learn that Matt can't remember many stories from his finals weeks. We also talk about the Hall of Fame event from last weekend, preview the upcoming event in Pittsburgh, and get ready for graduation.

Contact Matt at: msernell@pitt.edu

Contact David at: dgj7@pitt.edu

Vote in the Alumni Elections (lots of Tuck Shop guests on the list!) by Friday: https://pitt.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8GSbZnTrYGZCZbo?fbclid=IwY2xjawRdkRxleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETExSTNvRjlQRWZ1M296Wk45c3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHv8bo2Azv8vq_SLw14N7dufuHOKsySaFczn5vhTEGuBpfL6Kh0fBgno31Eds_aem_vBDYrK7wDXBM7Y1C-FHWPQ

Alumni Golf Registration: www.upj.pitt.edu/alumnigolf

Episode 98: The 2026 Spring Student Teacher Showcase!

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 07:27:52 -0400

The show travels across the Krebs parking lot to the Murtha Center and the 2026 UPJ Education Division Spring Student Teacher Showcase. We talk to the student teachers who are just days away from graduation and talk about everything from math to AI in the classroom and everything in between.

Contact Matt at: msernell@pitt.edu

Contact David at: dgj7@pitt.edu

Episode 97: The Password is Password - Featuring Don Freeburn

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 02:17:00 -0400

The guys are all over the place in this one. Can David's Ford SUV set a record at the racetrack? Will he ever find out what his password is? Will Matt survive back to back conferences? The Titanic sank? And we revisit, with all the news about Artemis, our interview with Don Freeburn who worked on the original Apollo Program!

Contact Matt at: msernell@pitt.edu

Contact David at: dgj7@pitt.ed

Register for the Hall of Fame: https://www4.upj.pitt.edu/pub/HallOfFameBanquet 24 credits at UPJ? Vote in the Alumni Election here: https://pitt.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8GSbZnTrYGZCZbo?fbclid=IwY2xjawRLLQZleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFtZUdTWXF0b0tRcGJJTkVSc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHoKZscxljIVO_Z_SJL-zRNQhoml-4vplhoQCEQEJ0wd5l1vAPbaU3t_aJjfv_aem_rgOz90xhnD2JMVHqAT4J0g

Episode 96: Jellybeans featuring Alissa Mincek

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 03:48:00 -0400

Matt and David, as usual, run through the calendar of events, discuss why Matt clearly has the superior taste in Jelly Beans, and then welcome Alissa Mincek to discuss her time here at UPJ and her experiences as a nationally recognized volleyball player.

Contact Matt at: msernell@pitt.edu

Contact David at: dgj7@pitt.ed

Learn more about the Path Forward Anti-Human Trafficking Conference at: www.pathforwardconference.com Register for the Hall of Fame: https://www4.upj.pitt.edu/pub/HallOfFameBanquet Save your spot for the ASCE Mid Atlantic Student Symposium alumni mixer: https://forms.gle/Dca9q2ti2shotDC49 for the full symposium schedule: https://www.asce.org/.../events/meetings/student-symposium

Episode 95: We're a Penn State Podcast Now...

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 02:21:00 -0400

Matt and David are back on April's Fool's Day. Hear Matt's disappointment in realtime as he figured out a great April Fool's Day episode idea that has been missed. Then the guys talk about all the upcoming events in April. Finally, they welcome Wendy Smith who is both an alumni of UPJ's Respiratory Care Program and now teaches in the department!

Contact Matt at: msernell@pitt.edu

Contact David at: dgj7@pitt.edu

Learn more about the Path Forward Anti-Human Trafficking Conference at: www.pathforwardconference.com

For information on the Engineering, Pittsburgh, and Marketing events, check out the Alumni Social Media on Facebook and LinkedIn.

Episode 94: Have you seen this lobster? Featuring Mark Bursic

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 02:38:00 -0400

Buckle up for this week everyone, because we have a great one for you. Matt and David go over the calendar of events as usual then we get into our interview with Mark Bursic. We talk about his hunt for a potential historical effort from his time with the Advocate, we discuss some interesting information about Artificial Intelligence, and we learn why Mark needed to punch David in the 1980's!

Contact Matt at: msernell@pitt.edu

Contact David at: dgj7@pitt.edu

Episode 93: The UPJ Army Navy Baseball Game - Featuring Dr. Ed Hartle

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 02:39:00 -0400

Matt and David welcome Dr. Ed Hartle to the show. After discussing upcoming events, they chat with Ed about his time here at UPJ, his time in the Army, his time back at UPJ, and a bunch of other things. The guys also provide a medical consult.

Contact Matt at: msernell@pitt.edu

Contact David at: dgj7@pitt.edu

Episode 92: May the Quartz be with you! - Featuring Dr. Ryan Kerrigan

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 02:23:00 -0400

Matt and David dive right into a weather based conspiracy David has plus a boat load of events for the next month or two! Then Matt is joined by Dr. Ryan Kerrigan who talks about the educational trip the Geology Club takes over spring break!

Contact Matt at: msernell@pitt.edu

Contact David at: dgj7@pitt.edu

Episode 91: This guy's a shooter - Featuring Rich Ragan

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 02:00:00 -0500

Matt and David are back for another week. Matt's a Doctor now, so David gives him a hard time about that before discussing some upcoming events. Then the guys welcome UPJ Basketball legend Rich Ragan to the show. They discuss basketball, UPJ, business and life all at the same time!

Contact Matt at: msernell@pitt.edu

Contact David at: dgj7@pitt.edu

Episode 90 - Privately laughing to himself...

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 02:38:00 -0500

Matt and David recover from Pitt Day of Giving by listing all the awesome upcoming events for this spring! Make sure you have your calendars ready! Then we revisit Professor's Skip Glenn's class working on an amazing project at the Johnstown Galleria Mall as more progress is reached on that project.

Contact Matt at: msernell@pitt.edu

Contact David at: dgj7@pitt.edu

Episode 89: Pitt Day of Giving is here.... Please help us!

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 02:54:00 -0500

David is back! He and Matt catch up and then go over the Pitt Day of Giving for 2026. Can you help us get to 100 new $10 Alumni donors? We hope so! We've tried really hard and need your help.

Contact Matt at: msernell@pitt.edu

Contact David at: dgj7@pitt.edu

Donate for Pitt Day of Giving: https://pittdayofgiving.com/pages/pdog-johnstown

Update you Contact information: https://www.johnstown.pitt.edu//alumni

Episode 88 - Valentine's Day at UPJ Featuring Jeff and Kristen Cerula

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 02:25:00 -0500

Reports say David is alive, but still missing in action, so Matt tackles Valentine's Day at UPJ with Jeff and Kristen Cerula. They share their UPJ Alumni stories, how they ended up being a UPJ couple, and working on the next generation of UPJ Alumni!

Contact Matt at: msernell@pitt.edu

Contact David at: dgj7@pitt.edu

Pitt Day of Giving:https://pittdayofgiving.com/pages/pdog-johnstown

Episode 87: Program A.S.C.E.N.D.

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 03:05:00 -0500

David is still on assignment this week but Matt is still kicking! He's joined by Alumni VP John Wozniak where they talk about the new Alumni Association ASCEND Program!

Follow UPJ Athletics at: https://pittjohnstownathletics.com/

Contact Matt at: msernell@pitt.edu

Contact David at: dgj7@pitt.edu

Episode 86: Snow Storm 2026 - It's cold

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 03:37:00 -0500

The snow storm did a number of the production schedule. David is wondering between snow drifts, somethings are open and others are closed, but the show must go on, so that's what Matt does. Just a quick one today to go over the 100 Alumni Donor Challenge and a recap of Winterfest.

Contact Matt at: msernell@pitt.edu

Contact David at: dgj7@pitt.edu

Episode 85: Winterfest, Learning, and February 29th...

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 02:19:00 -0500

Exciting episode this week! David and Matt catch up with Jim Sestrich and hear how the Spring term is going for the LearningPLUS Program and then Abby Gearhart stops by to talk all things Winterfest and hear about an amazing project that is starting!

Contact Matt at: msernell@pitt.edu

Contact David at: dgj7@pitt.edu

The LearningPLUS Program: https://www.johnstown.pitt.edu/admissions/special-programs/learningplus-program

Register for Winterfest here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc7HtLv4O-p28R7ua-9JO0BsRwJfB18bA_koqTa662eXVercg/viewform?fbclid=IwY2xjawPcf1VleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFldEtZUEF5ejFlWm1JeEU5c3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHsOI6ce-7-Pz7o-pF0pfGKEEJA_ot1esYXBHla4Y01KAXwf2mWScTv_RTp46_aem_v6DvLD6bZSJ7blXhhHsSAA

Episode 84: Spring Term?

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 03:28:00 -0500

Matt and David are back. Matt vents some frustration over a traffic related issue and then he and David run down a very busy January and February for campus and the Alumni.

Contact Matt at: msernell@pitt.edu

Contact David at: dgj7@pitt.edu

Episode 83 - It's Final's Week

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 02:23:00 -0500

David shows up for the show this week and he and Matt celebrate Final's week. We have some updates on the calendar for 2026 and have a deep conversation about media and history.

Email Matt at: msernell@pitt.edu

Email David at: dgj7@pitt.edu

Episode 82: Everyone's lost but me...

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 02:34:00 -0500

Matt's flying solo on this one. Journey through the thoughts of a podcasting geographer and learn how this whole podcast came to be along with some teases about some upcoming projects and A CHALLENGE!

Email Matt at: msernell@pitt.edu

Email David at: dgj7@pitt.edu

Episode 81: Comradorate (Featuring Denise and Sarah)

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 02:27:00 -0500

In the spirit of Thanksgiving and togetherness, Matt and David welcome their significant others to the show. Learn about the upcoming regional event and then see if Matt and David will enjoy Thanksgiving or end up in the dog house!

Contact Matt at: msernell@pitt.edu

Contact David at: dgj7@pitt.edu

Learn about the Evergreen Afterschool Program: https://wwwevergreenasc.org/

Episode 80: Goalie Fight! Featuring Deborah Breth

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 02:20:00 -0500

Matt and David are still talking about the amazing Johnstown Tomahawks game from Saturday night. We also address David's first experience with students finding out his age. Then we welcome Deborah Breth to the show to talk about here time at UPJ.

Contact Matt: msernell@pitt.edu

Contact David: dgj7@pitt.edu

Episode 79: Outside chance it could be aliens (Featuring Ben Epstein)

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 02:51:00 -0500

Matt and David are back with a great list of upcoming events, including a regional meeting in Indiana, Pa! Matt then sits down with Ben Epstein who was on campus earlier this year to discuss his time here in the 1970's and his career since.

Contact Matt at: msernell@pitt.edu

Contact David at: dgj7@pitt.edu

Get Hockey tickets at: https://www.gofevo.com/event/Upjalumni2

Episode 78: Only Up from here! Featuring UPJ Women's Basketball

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 02:34:00 -0500

Matt and David are back for another week of fun. Despite his best efforts, Matt doesn't keep control for long as we go over the calendar of upcoming events and then jump right in with Coaches Vickroy and Oterson from the UPJ Women's Basketball team!

Contact Matt at: msernell@pitt.edu

Contact David at: dgj7@pitt.edu

Get tickets for the Women's Basketball event at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/upj-womens-basketball-barrels-bites-tickets-1762964697869

Get tickets for the UPJ Night at the Tomahawks at: https://www.gofevo.com/event/Upjalumni2

Episode 77: Top people are working on it. Featuring Newt Bugbee

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 02:09:00 -0400

Matt and David have their usual round table of events with a side of confusion and then we welcome David Bigbee who visited campus a few weeks back to talk about his time here in the early 1970's!

Contact Matt at: msernell@pitt.edu

Contact David at: dgj7@pitt.edu

Get Hockey tickets at: https://www.gofevo.com/event/Upjalumni2

Episode 76: The Show Looks for an Engineering Job...

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 02:28:00 -0400

Matt and David are on the road this week when we travel to the Living Learning Center for the UPs Engineering and Computer Science Employer Day. We talk to Brian Houston who puts the event on and then to plenty of UPJ Alumni who came looking to hire!

Contact Matt at: msernell@pitt.edu

Contact David at: dgj7@pitt.edu

Contact Brian Houston at: bhouston@pitt.edu

Episode 75: We're only mostly dazed and confused...

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 01:43:00 -0400

Matt and David have had a rough week so they decide to try and make the best of the show by celebrating a bunch of things. First off, we find out how the UPJ Soil Judging team did at their completion and then we rundown all the upcoming events between today and the middle of November!

Email Matt at: msernell@pitt.edu

Email David at: dgj7@pitt.edu

Learn more about Homecoming at: https://www.johnstown.pitt.edu/homecoming

Episode 74 - Here from Florida only for this! Featuring Paul Tunink

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 02:42:00 -0400

Matt and David welcome Paul Tunink back to campus all the way from Florida! They talk about his time here as a student, playing Baseball, and the journey that brought him to the podcast!

Contact Matt at: msernell@pitt.edu

Contact David at: dgj7@pitt.edu

Learn more about Paul's company at www.arrowwealthllc.com

Episode 73: Not all of us are here by choice! Featuring Soil Judging 2025

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 02:36:00 -0400

David returns from assignment this week to discuss all the news regarding the Alumni First Business Directory and a mountain of events coming up around UPJ including Men's and Women's Basketball in at the Oakland campus and UPJ Homecoming. Then Matt talks to Dr. Mitzy Schaney, Dr. Chris Coughenour, and Lyra Mingin about the Region 1 Soil Judging competition on campus next week.

Contact Matt at msernell@pitt.edu

Contact David at dgj72@pitt.edu

Episode 72 - UPJ Alumni First!

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 01:43:00 -0400

David is on assignment this week, so Matt gets some help from some former show guests to launch the UPJ Alumni First Business Directory! Prof. Stacy Roberts and Kim Dorchak from Kotzan CPA join Matt along with Nathan DiFrancesco who put the project together!

Visit the Alumni First Business Directory at: www.upj.pitt.edu/alumnifirst

Reach Matt at: msernell@pitt.edu

Reach David at: dgj7@pitt.edu

If you would like to help with a Business Internship, you can reach Stacy Roberts at StacyRoberts@pitt.edu

Episode 71 - Kegs away! - featuring Tony Golden

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 02:12:00 -0400

Matt and David are back with another great episode. They review the schedule of upcoming events. Matt tries to explain the podcast tradecraft to little success and then we talk to Tony Golden about his time at UPJ and why he and his friends call the campus home even if they didn't technically finish!

Contact Matt at: msernell@pitt.edu

Contact David at dgj7@pitt.edu

Episode 70 - I'm not a Biologist Featuring Coach Aideen O'Donoghue

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 02:38:00 -0400

This week is a can't miss episode of the podcast! Matt and David struggle with the nature of their day and fail biology. Then they are joined by Coach Aideen O'Donoghue from the Mountain Cat Ladies Soccer team to talk about her journey to UPJ, the upcoming season, and the huge Ladies Soccer event coming up!

Contact Matt at: msernell@pitt.edu

Contact David at: dgj7@pitt.edu

Episode 69 - Proud Momma

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 02:14:00 -0400

Lot's on the calendar this week for Matt and David to talk about including the Education and Geosciences events and Women's Soccer. Later, Matt sit's down with Jessica Marines to talk about her time as a student, her role as a member of the UPJ staff, and some of the cool stuff her daughters are doing.

Contact Matt at: msernell@pitt.edu

Contact David at: dgj7@pitt.edu

Learn about Era-X at: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556155093949

Follow Emily at WJAC here: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575511614366

Episode 68 - Two Slovenians and a Compact Disk enthusiast

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 02:15:00 -0400

Season 3 kicks off with a bang! Matt and David are back and welcome Dr. Julie Wagner to talk about the summer, the first day of school, David's CD collection, and the Johnstown Slavic Festival.

Contact Matt at: msernell@pitt.edu

Contact David at: dgj7@pitt.edu

Learn more about the Festival at: https://www.facebook.com/johnstownslavicfestival

Learn about the Podcast at: http://www.tuckshoppodcast.com

Episode 67 – Summer Series Featuring Abby Gearhart

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 02:29:00 -0400

Subscribe today at: https://thetuckshop.podbean.com

In their final episode of the Summer Series, Matt and David recap their summer and then listen to their interview with Athletic Director Abby Gearhart about the new sports coming to UPJ! Special thanks to Executive Producer Betsy Martinelli.

Contact Matt at: msernell@pitt.edu
Contact David at: dgj7@pitt.edu

Episode 66 – Summer Series Featuring The Geography Gaggle

Wed, 13 Aug 2025 02:29:00 -0400

Subscribe today at: https://thetuckshop.podbean.com

As the Summer Series starts to reach its conclusion, David spends some time with Matt in his very empty Krebs Hall office waiting for classes to start. They then revisit the sit down Matt did with the Geoscience students before their trip to Detroit this spring. Special thanks to Executive Producer Betsy Martinelli.

Contact Matt at: msernell@pitt.edu
Contact David at: dgj7@pitt.edu

Episode 65 – Summer Series Featuring John Wozniak

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 02:28:00 -0400

Subscribe today at: https://thetuckshop.podbean.com

Just a few more weeks of the Summer Series to go Matt and David discuss how alumni can come back and take a class for the joy of education! They then listen to their interview with Senator John Wozniak who just returned himself for a class! Special thanks to Executive Producer Betsy Martinelli.

Contact Matt at: msernell@pitt.edu
Contact David at: dgj7@pitt.edu

Episode 64 – Summer Series Featuring Mark Stevens

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 02:27:00 -0400

Subscribe today at: https://thetuckshop.podbean.com

Matt and David celebrate Christmas in July during the Summer Series with a debate on what Santa would wear at the end of July and then listen to their interview with Mark Stevens, UPJ alum and professional Santa! Special thanks to Executive Producer Betsy Martinelli.

Contact Matt at: msernell@pitt.edu
Contact David at: dgj7@pitt.edu

Episode 63 – Summer Series Featuring Don Freeburn

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 02:26:00 -0400

Subscribe today at: https://thetuckshop.podbean.com

Matt and David spend some time chatting about the Summer Series and then they review their sit down interview with Don Freeburn. Don’s experience carried him from UPJ to the Apollo Space Program! Special thanks to Executive Producer Betsy Martinelli.

Contact Matt at: msernell@pitt.edu
Contact David at: dgj7@pitt.edu

Episode 62 – Summer Series Featuring George Hancock

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 02:25:00 -0400

Matt and David remind everyone that only 24 hours remain to get tickets for the UPJ Night at the Pittsburgh Pirates, our big event of the Summer Series, and then we move to the discussion with long time UPJ fixture George Hancock! Special thanks to Executive Producer Betsy Martinelli.

Contact Matt at: msernell@pitt.edu
Contact David at: dgj7@pitt.edu

Episode 61 – Summer Series Featuring Joe Ettien, USMC

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 02:24:00 -0400

Summer Series is in full swing as Matt and David discuss campus happenings and then revisit the interview with Joe Ettien, USMC. He called in from Japan! Special thanks to Executive Producer Betsy Martinelli.

Contact Matt at: msernell@pitt.edu
Contact David at: dgj7@pitt.edu

Episode 60 – Summer Series Featuring Jim Moschgat

Wed, 02 Jul 2025 02:23:00 -0400

Matt and David get ready for the 4th of July holiday with a quick chat and then listen to the interview with Colonel Jim Moschgat discussing the history and impact of UPJ Alumni Buzz Wagner, WW2 Ace! Special thanks to Executive Producer Betsy Martinelli.

Contact Matt at: msernell@pitt.edu
Contact David at: dgj7@pitt.edu

Episode 59 – Summer Series Featuring Addi Georgantzis

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 02:23:00 -0400

More Summer Series fun as Matt and David revisit their discussion with Addi Georgantzis, our first guest who asked to be on the show! Special thanks to Executive Producer Betsy Martinelli.

Contact Matt at: msernell@pitt.edu
Contact David at: dgj7@pitt.edu

Episode 58 – Summer Series Featuring Karen Esaias

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 02:19:00 -0400

Subscribe today at: https://thetuckshop.podbean.com

The Summer Series continues with some Matt and David time followed by a flash back to our sit-down interview with Karen Esaias! Special thanks to Executive Producer Betsy Martinelli.

Episode 57 – Summer Series Featuring Kim Dorchak

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 02:17:00 -0400

Subscribe today at: https://thetuckshop.podbean.com

We kick off the Summer Series with a quick discussion with David and Matt and then we revisit our very first interview with Business Alum Kim Dorchak! Special thanks to Executive Producer Betsy Martinelli.

Contact Matt at: msernell@pitt.edu
Contact David at: dgj7@pitt.edu

Episode 56: As God as my witness, I thought turkeys could fly

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 02:30:00 -0400

David wakes Matt from his summer slumber to attend the Music, Media, and More reunion on campus. We talk to alumni from WUPJ Radio, WUPJ, TV, Programing Board, and the Advocate about all sorts of different topics from the state of newspapers today through getting threatened by famous music artists!

Contact Matt at: msernell@pitt.edu

Contact David at: dgj7@pitt.edu

Episode 55: I'm not dead yet!

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 02:53:00 -0400

Matt and David welcome Doug Ledney from Education to this end of term episode. They review the year, everything going on this summer, and talk about an Education and Geosciences event for the fall. Plus, it's the last day of the term, so expect some fun!

Media Reunion Registration: https://www.johnstown.pitt.edu/music-media-and-more-reunion

UPJ Night at the Pirates: https://www.gofevo.com/event/Pittjohnstownalumni0725?fbclid=IwY2xjawJ58PFleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFOY1l0WUNpZmxmcm4xc0JZAR5B9slbuRjgZHllA6W3XN6KJNAxSxzZ_LxC0BuTcDLqNzPy0IoT3jiqjXK2BQ_aem_GHwHRtHaYVPEOoNoPfxZyQ

Email Matt at: msernell@pitt.edu

Email David at: dgj7@pitt.edu

Episode 54: Hello Grandpa! Featuring Jeff Martinelli

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 13:34:40 -0400

Lots going on today. The show congratulates David's family for their new addition, it's nice enough for sandals, plenty of events, and that's just the start. We then welcome Jeff Martinelli to the show to talk about his time at UPJ, his career, and the upcoming Media, Music and More reunion!

Media Reunion Registration: https://www.johnstown.pitt.edu/music-media-and-more-reunion

Alumni can still vote for the board at: https://pitt.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_5anpOowUQsNQyRE?fbclid=IwY2xjawJ2A9FleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFVOGdpTVNhU3o5cFJwRHlGAR4OrhQ4090d9rI7QBpNrmTgW8M1AU0eOBJWw0iX1sQ3gCh255ZqZhqEfI2z6g_aem_dzuyjdy8KCSzdupQHKQQzw

Email Matt at: msernell@pitt.edu

Email David at: dgj7@pitt.edu

Episode 53: Student Teacher Showcase featuring EVERYONE!

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 09:52:48 -0400

The show goes on the road, or in this case walks across the Krebs parking lot to the Murtha Building, to attend the Pitt-Johnstown Education Division Student Teacher Showcase. We learn plenty and have a great time with everyone learning about their hard work to become teachers.

Media Reunion Registration: https://www.johnstown.pitt.edu/music-media-and-more-reunion

UPJ Night at the Pirates: https://www.gofevo.com/event/UniversityofPittsburgh0621

Contact Matt: msernell@pitt.edu

Contact David: dgj7@pitt.edu

Episode 52: Abby's back with new sports!

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 11:13:17 -0400

Matt and David welcome Abby Gearhart, the new UPJ Athletic Director to the show. She talks about what's up with Athletics at UPJ including the addition of three new sports, Mens and Women's Swimming and Women's Wrestling!

Vote for the Alumni Board at: https://pitt.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_5anpOowUQsNQyRE

Episode 51: We're from Slovenia!

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 11:19:02 -0400

Matt welcomes Dr. Julie Wagner to the show. They talk about her time as a student, in the Army, as a Johnstown Police Officer and now a Professor. They also talk about family connections and Slovenia!

Reach Matt at: msernell@pitt.ed

Reach David at: dgj7@pitt.edu

Episode 50: Designated Survivor

Wed, 26 Mar 2025 02:40:00 -0400

Matt and David review Matt's trip to the dentist and then talk about Hockey and Athletics Hall of Fame. Then Matt sits down with three of the Geography and Environmental Studies students, Lyra Mingin, Lauren Eckman, and Ty Lobach, to talk about their trip to the national geography conference to show off research done at UPJ!

Hockey: https://fevo-enterprise.com/event/Pittjohnstown3

Hall of fame: www.tinyurl.com/zzkadcjc

Contact Matt at: msernell@pitt.edu

Contact David at: dgj7@pitt.edu

Episode 49: Get off my lawn!

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 13:11:46 -0400

David is back from hibernation so he and Matt take some time to catch up and prep for the spring schedule for Alumni. Lots of things going on so you'll find something you'll love!

Hockey: https://fevo-enterprise.com/event/Pittjohnstown3

Reach Matt at: msernell@pitt.edu

Reach David at: dgj7@pitt.edu

Episode 47: Hot Desks, Coopetition, and an ask for help...

Wed, 12 Mar 2025 02:16:00 -0400

Matt welcomes Professor Skip Glenn's Senior Marketing Class. They talk about the senior project they have been working on and ask for your help! The class would like to thank Leo Karuli for his energy and commitment in supporting this idea. Also David Luciew of Ultra Snaps and Michael Kovatich of Imperial Holdings Group for being mentors of this project.

Take the survey: https://pitt.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_4NoVmhgUDg9jFBA

Contact Matt at: msernell@pitt.edu

Contact David at: dgj7@pitt.edu

Episode 46: Hopefully this isn't billable time! Featuring Jeff Kubay

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 02:42:00 -0500

Matt welcomes Jeff Kubay to the show. The discussion leads them to understand just how much their UPJ paths mirrored each other. Share some memories about some campus greats and have a great time.

Get Hockey tickets at: https://fevo-enterprise.com/event/Pittjohnstown3?fbclid=IwY2xjawIgUR5leHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHc74HX7kY83vJvAfhpB7_fxjObNMRMQhbj5oZfbOlcjmam8gokZba7QT2A_aem_tSSHjV0Zf5o49_rzU2kbrQ

Contact Matt at: msernell@pitt.edu

Contact David at: dgj7@pitt.edu

Episode 45: Wrapping Up Winterfest Near Zero Style

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 03:05:00 -0500

Matt and David go over all the fun and excitement from this year's Winterfest and make sure we have everything figured out for the coming weeks of events.

Contact David at: djg7@pitt.edu

Contact Matt at: msernell@pitt.edu

Episode 44 - Democracy Education with the UPJ Education Division

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 02:36:00 -0500

The show travels this week to the American Civic Education and Literacy conference where we talk to Professor Mark Conlon from UPJ Education and a variety of other guests about the issues facing social science education in the world today.

Contact Matt at msernell@pitt.edu

Contact David at djg7@pitt.edu

Episode 43: Lunch with Dr. Benedict Vinzani!

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 10:44:28 -0500

Matt and David check in... Did David survive his birthday and a visit to see Punxsutawney Phil? We also go over a huge list of upcoming events. Then Matt sits down and has a discussion with Dr. Benedict Vinzani, history and political science alumni from 1974!

Contact Matt at msernell@pitt.edu

Contact David at dgj7@pitt.edu

Episode 42: Always returning home featuring Stacy Roberts

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 02:48:00 -0500

This week Matt and David welcome Professor Stacy Roberts, alumni and current member of the Business and Enterprise Division. We talk about the being from a family of UPJ alumni and plenty of other fun things.

Reach Matt at msernell@pitt.edu

Reach David at dgj7@pitt.edu

Episode 41: It's almost tax season, don't bother me!

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 03:55:00 -0500

This week we let David get into the safety of somewhere warm, so Matt welcomes back to the show his better half...Sarah! We talk about the impending tax season for CPA's and then look at all the upcoming campus and alumni events including Mt. Cat Couples, Alumni Board nominations, Winterfest, the Alumni Golf Classic Pt. 1, and the Media, Music, and More Reunion!

Contact David at dgj7@pitt.edu

Contact Matt at msernell@pitt.edu

Follow the alumni association on Facebook and LinkedIn.

Episode 40: Legally Distinct Mouse themed title here...featuring Madi Walker

Wed, 15 Jan 2025 03:44:00 -0500

We're back for the Spring 2025 term and hit the ground running with some breaking news in David's life, almost no news from Matt's life, and a great interview of 2024 graduate Madi Walker!

Contact David at: dgj7@pitt.edu

Contact Matt at: msernell@pitt.edu

Episode 39: Finals start on a Wednesday?! Featuring Dr. Ernie Mantini

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 07:34:55 -0500

David is swamped with work this week, so Matt welcomes Dr. Ernie Mantini to the show to talk about the upcoming Mt. Cat Tournament and his time here as a UPJ student.

Contact David at: DGJ7@pitt.edu Contact Matt at: msernell@pitt.edu

Episode 38: Live from the Student Teacher Forum!

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 03:43:00 -0500

Matt and David leave the safety of the Tuck Shop Studio and set up at the Education Division's Student Teacher Forum. Come along with us as we talk to faculty, alumni, and students about all manner of fun things!

Special thanks to the Education Division for inviting the show!

Contact David at dgj7@pitt.edu

Contact Matt at msernell@pitt.edu

Episode 37: It's SOIL not DIRT! Featuring Dr. Mitzy Schaney

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 10:05:09 -0500

It's Geography Awareness week at UPJ and around the country. Matt and David talk about their week and the happenings around campus and then Matt talks to Dr. Mitzy Schaney about Geography Awareness weeks, Soil Judging, and Mitzy needs a favor!

Contact Matt at: msernell@pitt.edu

Contact Mitzy at: MIS212@pitt.edu

Contact David at: DGJ7@pitt.edu

Episode 36: Hall of Fame Culture featuring Jill Halapin

Wed, 06 Nov 2024 11:30:38 -0500

Matt and David welcome Jill Halapin and her son Elliot to the show. We talk about her time at UPJ, the culture she learned and teaches, and share some great stories.

Episode 35: Still Not Canceled! Our one year anniversary celebration featuring Jen Tuscano!

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 02:30:00 -0400

Matt and David celebrate one year of The Tuck Shop Podcast! We then welcome Jen Tuscano to the show and learn about her time at UPJ, her path to the Oakland campus, the impact of teamwork across her whole career, and what the future holds for the UPJ vs Pitt Women's Basketball game!

Episode 34: Hat tricks and helping featuring Ed Sheets

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 03:09:00 -0400

Matt and David talk about his weekend at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and then Matt sits down with Ed Sheets to talk about his UPJ experience, working for the Johnstown Tomahawks, and they break down the remaining 2024 NASCAR season!

Episode 33: Abby Gearhart is back!

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 03:04:00 -0400

Matt and David welcome Abby Gearhart back to the show to talk about the upcoming Lady's Mountain Cat game in Oakland, the upcoming celebration for the the 50th anniversary of the Lady Cat's, Trunk or Treat, and Winterfest!

Episode 32: You can get your Cybertruck in any color, as long as it's silver. Featuring Dr. Tim Whisler

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 03:24:00 -0400

Matt and David are joined this week by Dr. Tim Whisler, head of the Business and Enterprise Division. Beyond talking about the upcoming Division Reunion, Tim talks about his career, what lead him to his interest in economics, and the group does a quick dive into the world of British automobiles.

Register today for the Business and Enterprise Reunion at: https://www.johnstown.pitt.edu/business-and-enterprise-reunion

Episode 31: We catch our breath...

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 11:05:08 -0400

Just Matt and David today but it gives us a chance to catch up with everything that happened with the two division reunions and Homecoming. We also run down the calendar to learn about everything coming up in the next few months.

Contact Matt if you would like to be considered for the show at: msernell@pitt.edu.

Episode 30: A Lesson in Leadership with Jim Dittmar

Wed, 25 Sep 2024 03:35:00 -0400

Matt and David welcome Jim Dittmar to talk about the upcoming Frances Hesselbein Legacy and Leadership Program that will be held on campus October 5th.

Episode 29: Social Scientist of UPJ, now is our time! Featuring Dr. Ross Kleinstuber

Tue, 17 Sep 2024 03:40:00 -0400

Dr. Ross Kleinstuber, head of Social Sciences at UPJ, joins us to talk about his work on campus, the Inside Out Program, and the upcoming Social Science Reunion!

Register for the Social Science Reunion here: https://www.johnstown.pitt.edu/social-sciences-reunion Division of Social Sciences

Register for UPJ Homecoming here: https://securelb.imodules.com/s/1729/2-pittsburgh/interior.aspx?sid=1729&gid=2&pgid=7177&fbclid=IwY2xjawFVhOhleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHduhhPPHGU6QvGrEDTku2y0RLDEhh8O_ATzV3vyY9ZppN7ikvToqIwlnCA_aem_K2ZPlJ0fQDh9RwPf_lE0IA

Episode 28: There will be homework. A visit with Dr. Rowland from the Education Division

Wed, 11 Sep 2024 10:31:08 -0400

Matt and David welcome Dr. Rowland from the Education Division who shares her background, what brought her to education, and all the fun details about the upcoming UPJ Education Reunion on September 28th!

Donate to UPJ at: https://www.johnstown.pitt.edu/giving-pitt-johnstown

Episode 27: Fall term begins (Featuring Dawn Miller)

Wed, 04 Sep 2024 03:49:00 -0400

Matt and David are back for the 24-25 Academic Year! We have a huge list of events coming up for every alumni and we go over each of them before we welcome Dawn Miller to the show. Dawn is a 2024 graduate with an amazing love for literature and dedication to UPJ!

Education Reunion Registration: Division of Education

Social Science Registration: Division of Social Sciences

Business and Enterprise Registration: Division of Business & Enterprise

UPJ Homecoming Weekend: Homecoming

Episode 26: It's finally summer!

Fri, 14 Jun 2024 15:39:41 -0400

We bring a close to the 2023-2024 Academic Year's episodes with a recap of the last few weeks and a reminder about all the fun fall activities already on the calendar.

If you think your story would make a great podcast, email Matt at msernell@pitt.edu today!

Thank you all for being loyal listeners of The Tuck Shop Podcast!

Episode 25: Events for Everyone!

Wed, 15 May 2024 12:09:32 -0400

David returns from vacation this week just in time to look at a jam-packed calendar of event. There is fun for everyone in the next few months! Matt and David go over each event on today’s podcast and throw in some fun as well!

Alumni Golf: upj.pitt.edu/alumnigolf

UPJ Night at the Pirates: https://fevo-enterprise.com/event/PJN0606

UPJ Greek Reunion: www.upjgreeks.org

Make sure your contact information is up to date at: https://www.alumnionline.pitt.edu/s/1729/2-pittsburgh/interior.aspx?sid=1729&gid=2&pgid=2097&cid=3498

Episode 24: She asked to be here! (Featuring Addi Georgantzis)

Wed, 08 May 2024 03:16:00 -0400

This week Matt sits down with Addi Georgantzis. Addi is an alumni fan of the program and wanted to talk about her experiences. They cover all sorts of topics from being a student to working as a Nurse in New York City during the pandemic.

If you want to be considered for a spot on the podcast email msernell@pitt.edu today!

UPJ Alumni Golf Classic: http://upj.pitt.edu/alumnigolf

UPJ visits the Pittsburgh Pirates: https://fevo-enterprise.com/event/PJN0606

Episode 23: A Study Guide

Wed, 01 May 2024 02:51:00 -0400

Matt reflects on the amazing Graduation event from the last week and then we have a bit of a 'best of' for new listeners to hear for the first time and long time listeners to enjoy again!

4:00 Kim dorchak

8:00 John Wozniak

10:08 Sarah Matatall

13:55 Mark Stephens

15:30 Coach Pat Pecora

19:32 Hannah Frizzell and Adelynn York

Alumni Golf

UPJ Greeks

Episode 22: Finals Week for Spring 2024

Wed, 24 Apr 2024 03:47:00 -0400

Matt and David talk wrap up the academic year with some stories about final weeks long gone and spend a little bit of time thinking ahead to several big events coming up in the Summer.

Alumni Golf: www.upj.pitt.edu/alumnigolf

All Greek Reunion: https://www.upjgreeks.org/all-greek-reunion-2024.html

Update your Contact Info: https://www.alumnionline.pitt.edu/s/1729/2-pittsburgh/interior.aspx?sid=1729&gid=2&pgid=2097&cid=3498

Contact David at: dgj7@pitt.edu

Contact Matt at: msernell@pitt.edu

Episode 21: Remembering an Alumni and an American Hero featuring Col. Jim Moschgat

Wed, 17 Apr 2024 03:43:00 -0400

After catching up with David on a variety of upcoming events, Matt sits down with Col. Jim Moschgat to discuss his fascination with UPJ alum Buzz Wagner, the first American World War II ace, his efforts to tell Buzz's story, and what it meant during WW II and today.

The Chapter 221 documentary

Alumni Golf Registration

UPJ Greek Reunion

Update your Contact Information with Campus

Episode 20: The life long journey of learning with Jim Sestrich

Wed, 10 Apr 2024 03:03:00 -0400

In today's episode we spend some time talking with Jim Sestrich about his time here as a student, working his career, and then returning as a student in the Learner Plus program offered by UPJ.

Subscribe at: https://thetuckshop.podbean.com/ Golf Registration: upj.pitt.edu/alumnigolf Greek Reunion: upjgreeks.org

Episode 19: Honoring a former Professor featuring Carrie Law

Wed, 03 Apr 2024 02:57:00 -0400

Carrie Law, class of 2014, joins the show today to discuss her time as a student at Pitt-Johnstown. Collecting a variety of different majors. And a very special project that brings her back to campus.

Episode 18: A discussion with Alumni Award winners featuring Hanna Frizzell and Adelynn York

Wed, 27 Mar 2024 03:03:00 -0400

Matt reviews some upcoming events with David including the Alumni Golf Classic and the Greek Reunion before welcoming Hanna Frizzell and Adelynn York to the podcast. Both are students who have won the Alumni Award Scholarship. Learn about their stories and what your support of the Alumni Association does to help students.

Golf Registration: upj.pitt.edu/alumnigolf

Greek Reunion: upjgreeks.org

Episode 17:A Long Distance Call to Japan featuring Joe Ettien, USMC

Wed, 20 Mar 2024 03:01:00 -0400

Matt and David get caught up after a few weeks and then Matt talks to Joe Ettien, recent alumni and currently deployed Marine stationed in Japan!

Alumni Golf Registration (May 31st): https://www4.upj.pitt.edu/pub/golf/

All Greek Reunion (May 31st, June 1st): https://securelb.imodules.com/s/1729/2-pittsburgh/interior.aspx?sid=1729&gid=2&pgid=6794

Speaker Series Registration: https://www4.upj.pitt.edu/pub/MurthaRSVP/

Episode 16: An Underground Railroad history lesson featuring Denise Jennings

Wed, 13 Mar 2024 03:47:00 -0400

This week Matt welcomes Denise Jennings, an alumni who has spend much of her time working on programs including helping build the Blairsville Underground Railroad.

To learn about the Blairsville Underground Railroad, visit: https://undergroundrailroadblairsvillepa.com/

Episode 15: A trip to the Principal's Office featuring Dr. Doug Ledney

Wed, 06 Mar 2024 03:18:00 -0500

This week the show makes a stop in the Principal's office when we talk with Dr. Doug Ledney from the UPJ Education Division.

Doug talks about his time as a student, the work he does now helping future teachers, and the Alumni Junior Scholarship!

Registration for the Engineering Week Reunion at: pi.tt/ECSReunion24

Episode 14: A generational affair with Bruce and Brett Haselrig

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 03:52:00 -0500

Today we talk to Bruce and Brett Haselrig about their experiences both as a family and individuals at UPJ.

Episode 13: Pitt Day of Giving Featuring Institutional Advancement

Wed, 21 Feb 2024 03:19:00 -0500

This week is all about the upcoming Pitt Day of Giving. I welcome Institutional Advancement to the show to talk about PDOG.

Your support for PDOG helps generate interest, funds, and engagement across the board for UPJ. For information on how to donate and to watch the live stream on February 27th visit

http://www.upj.pitt.edu/pdog

Episode 12: A checkup with Allied Health and Respiratory Care...

Wed, 14 Feb 2024 03:08:00 -0500

This week we talk to Tara Penrod and Stacey Hufman of Allied Health and Respiratory Care about their program, Stacey's time here as a student, the changes to campus over time, and so much more!

If you are interested in attending UPJ night with the Johnstown Tomahawks, visit: https://fevo-enterprise.com/event/upjalumnihawks

Episode 11 The Show goes to Winterfest 2024!

Wed, 07 Feb 2024 03:44:00 -0500

In this week's episode, the show goes to Winterfest and we talk to some of the alumni attending...watch some basketball, and enjoy the bonfire!

S01E10 From UPJ to the Apollo Program featuring Don Freeburn

Wed, 24 Jan 2024 01:48:00 -0500

Don Freeburn joins the show to talk about his time at UPJ, how he reached NASA, and what it was like working on the Apollo Program!

S01E09 - A chat with Coach Pat Pecora

Wed, 17 Jan 2024 03:47:00 -0500

Matt and David have practically no athletic ability between them but that doesn't make the conversation with the great Pat Pecora any less fantastic!

S01E08 - Winterfest! Featuring Abby Gearhart

Wed, 10 Jan 2024 02:04:00 -0500

Matt and David welcome Abby Gearhart to the Tuck Shop Podcast to kick off 2024.

Abby talks about her time as a student athlete, her current job on campus, and the upcoming 2024 Winterfest!

Update your UPJ Contact Information