The GNSF ”We Belong Here” Podcast

GNSF "We Belong Here" Podcast, Episode #45- Kevin Hosbond

Episode #45 features special guest Kevin Hosbond, an 11th grade English teacher and Speech Coach at Grinnell High School.
In this episode, we dive into this year’s Large Group Speech season, highlighting standout performers and celebrating the groups that advanced to All-State. Kevin also shares insights from his experience coaching and working with students throughout the season.
We’ll also take time to recognize Kevin’s recent honor—being named the 2026 Outstanding Educator in Speech/Debate by the Iowa High School Speech Association (IHSSA) and the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS). This prestigious award highlights his dedication, impact, and excellence in speech education.

"We Belong Here" Podcast, Episode #44- Jill Harris

🎙️ Episode #44 – Jill Harris This week on the We Belong Here Podcast, we welcome special guest Jill Harris, retired vocal teacher from Grinnell Middle School.
Join us as we take a journey through Jill’s 33 years of teaching in Grinnell, reflecting on the memories, lessons, and impact she made on generations of students. We’ll also talk about what she’s doing today to stay connected and continue supporting the Grinnell Community School District.
Jill is a wonderful example of the hard work, dedication, and passion our teachers bring to their students every day. Her story highlights what makes Grinnell Schools such a special place—one where truly We Belong Here. 🎶📚

"We Belong Here" Podcast, Episode #43- Zane Strawser-Picado

Episode #43 – Zane Strawser-Picado
This week on the We Belong Here Podcast, we’re excited to welcome our special guest — Zane Strawser-Picado, Grinnell alumnus and President of the GNSF Board.
In this episode, Zane shares his journey through the Grinnell-Newburg Community School District and reflects on how his experiences shaped his path forward. He continued his education at Wartburg College and Southern New Hampshire University, building a strong foundation for his professional career.
Now employed with Otsuka America Pharmaceutical, Inc., Zane talks about his work in the pharmaceutical industry and how both his family’s deep educational roots and his own experiences continue to draw him back to the Grinnell community. His passion for education and service is what led him to serve on — and now lead — the GNSF Board.
Sit back, relax, and tune in. By the end of the episode, you’ll see why Zane Strawser-Picado is proud to say — “We Belong Here!”

"We Belong Here Podcast" Episode #42- Kayla Kelly

This week on the We Belong Here Podcast, we’re excited to welcome Kayla (Juni) Kelly, the new 4th grade teacher at Grinnell Middle School. A proud GHS alum, Kayla shares her inspiring journey back home and the path that led her to the classroom.
Sit back and listen—by the end of the episode, you’ll agree: Kayla is a perfect fit to say, “We Belong Here.”
Stay connected. Stay inspired.Because We Belong Here.

"We Belong Here" Podcast, Episode #41- Bill Kostow

Episode #41 – Bill KostowThis week on the We Belong Here Podcast, we’re excited to welcome our special guest — Bill Kostow, Treasurer and GHS Student advisor liaison for the GNSF board.
In this episode, Bill shares a little bit about himself — where he grew up, what brought him to Grinnell, and different roles he plays in the Grinnell community.  Bill also visits about his involvement with the Link Mentoring in the Grinnell Elementary Schools and how the program involves community men and women mentoring the youth of Grinnell.  Sit back and relax and when we are done you will see why we can say Bill Kostow, you are part of the class to say "We Belong Here!"

"We Belong Here" Podcast, Episode #40- Peyton Stensrud and Sam Hatcher

🎙️ Episode #40 – Peyton Stensrud and Sam Hatcher
This week on the We Belong Here Podcast, we dive into the “Great Debate” with Grinnell High School senior Debate Team members Peyton Stensrud and Sam Hatcher.
We often welcome GHS students to the podcast to talk about the clubs and activities they’re involved in, and this episode is another great example of student leadership and engagement. Peyton and Sam share how they got started in Debate Club, what the process of becoming a debater looks like, how many tournaments they compete in, and the skills it takes to succeed along the way. By the end of the conversation, you’ll walk away with a new appreciation for the art of debate.
So sit back, relax, and get ready to debate — Peyton and Sam truly embody what it means when we say, “We Belong Here!”

"We Belong Here" Podcast, Episode #39 Blake Walker

Episode #39 – Blake Walker
This week on the We Belong Here Podcast, we’re excited to welcome a special guest — Blake Walker, Class of 2019 and Social Media Manager at Bound-Iowa.
Even though it has only been five and a half years since Blake graduated from Grinnell, we take a step back to explore his journey through high school and college. His story fits right alongside the student voices featured in recent weeks, showing how the activities and experiences students engage in throughout high school can pay dividends later in life.
Blake shares a remarkable story of a childhood dream he never stopped chasing. Today, many may know him as “Blake, the guy from Bound social media,” but an increasing number now recognize him as Blake Walker — one of the voices of Knoxville Raceway!
Sit back and enjoy this episode. We think you’ll agree that Blake embodies our slogan: “We Belong Here!”

"We Belong Here" Podcast, Episode #38- Harper Benesh and Lucy Skouson

Episode #36 – Harper Benesh & Lucy Skouson
This week on the We Belong Here Podcast, we’re excited to welcome our special guests — Harper Benesh and Lucy Skouson, both juniors and dedicated members of the FCCLA (Family, Career and Community Leaders of America) chapter at Grinnell High School.
Harper and Lucy share their experiences from the National FCCLA Competition in Orlando last June, as well as their recent service trip to the Ronald McDonald House at Blank Children’s Hospital in Des Moines. Their stories highlight the leadership, compassion, and community commitment that make Grinnell High School students shine.
After listening, you’ll agree — **Harper and Lucy truly embody the message of our show: We Belong Here! **

"We Belong Here" Podcast, Episode #37- Peyton Stevenson and Lucy Truley

This week on the We Belong Here Podcast, we’re excited to welcome our special guests — Peyton Stevenson, a senior, and Lucy Truley, a junior — both proud members of the Grinnell High School Thespian Troupe.
Peyton and Lucy join us to share their experiences at the State Thespian Festival held at the University of Northern Iowa. They also reflect on their time in high school theatre — from the energy of Fall and Spring plays and musicals to the creativity and challenge of Large Group and Individual Speech events.
Their passion, dedication, and leadership shine through every part of their story.After listening, you’ll agree — Peyton and Lucy truly embody the message of our show: We Belong Here!

"We Belong Here" Podcast, Episode #36- Maggie Dayton, Aden Wolfe & Ashley Wolfe

Episode #36 – Maggie Dayton, Aden Wolfe & Ashley Wolfe
This week on the We Belong Here Podcast, we’re excited to welcome our special guests — Maggie Dayton, a senior; Aden Wolfe, a junior; and Ashley Wolfe, Agricultural Science and FFA Teacher at Grinnell High School.
Maggie and Aden share their experiences in the FFA program, discuss the annual Fruit Sales fundraiser, and reflect on their trip to the National FFA Conference in Indianapolis. Their stories highlight the leadership, dedication, and community spirit that make Grinnell High School students stand out.
After listening, you’ll agree — Maggie and Aden truly embody the message of our show: We Belong Here!