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This Is Purdue

Purdue University

This Is Purdue, the official podcast for Purdue University, highlights stories about Boilermakers from across all disciplines, who through research, innovation and determination, have persistently pursued their next giant leap.

Hosted by Purdue University alum, Brian Lamb School of Communication graduate, and Indiana native Kate Young, This is Purdue aims to examine all of the incredible accomplishments of Boilermakers and their contributions to the world.

Join us every other Thursday as we interview students, faculty, and alumni taking small steps toward their giant leaps, and inspiring others to do the same.

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23 episodes
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English

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#156
Thursday · 31 min
The Mosquito Bowl, WWII and Purdue’s Undefeated 1943 Football Team
In this episode of “This Is Purdue,” we’re talking to Cory Palm (MA public relations and sport management ’08), director of broadcast services for Purdue Athletics and author of “Perfect Warriors: Touchdown Tony Butkovich and the 1943 Purdue Football Team.” As a proud Purdue alumnus with a decades-long broadcasting career, Cory is an expert in all things Big Ten athletics. Today, he’s diving into “Perfect Warriors” and his documentary of the same name, which has aired on the Big Ten Network more than a dozen times. A focal point of both works is Tony Butkovich, a Boilermaker, All-American fullback and Marine who is depicted in a new film called “The Mosquito Bowl.” It’s an incredible story about the sacrifices that the Greatest Generation made during World War II. Cory provided key historical insights to director Peter Berg during the film’s preproduction process. The movie will be released on Netflix on Nov. 25. In honor of Veterans Day, join us as we get an inside look at this major motion picture and discuss Purdue’s World War II contributions. In this episode, you will: Learn more about Purdue’s undefeated 1943 football team, including some players’ unique position as students, star athletes and service members who were part of the V-12 Navy College Training Program — a World War II initiative that produced college-educated officers for the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. Hear more about Purdue President Edward Elliott’s key role in the country’s World War II efforts, from advocating for the V-12 program to serving as chief of the Division of Professional and Technical Employment and Training within the War Manpower Commission. Discover more about Butkovich — the son of an Illinois coal miner who emigrated from Croatia — who set a Purdue single-season record with 16 rushing touchdowns in just seven games, a record he now shares with Boilermaker great Kory Sheets. Find out more about the Mosquito Bowl — the legendary pickup football game played on Guadalcanal island on Christmas Eve in 1944 — and how it was the last game Butkovich and other college football stars like him played just months before the Battle of Okinawa. Tune in for key takeaways about “The Mosquito Bowl” film, which is based on Pulitzer Prize-winning author Buzz Bissinger’s book of the same name, and what it was like for Cory to connect with prominent director Peter Berg during scripting and preproduction. Get insights into Purdue’s vital role during World War II as a land-grant institution, including its support of the GI Bill, which helped veterans adjust to civilian life and increased student enrollment. Hear more about Cory’s role at Purdue Athletics, including why he’s passionate about athletics storytelling and the premise for his new book, which covers the 1903 Purdue train wreck that killed 17 people, including 14 Boilermaker football players. Learn more about why the Mosquito Bowl still matters today, the enduring legacy of Purdue’s undefeated 1943 football team and how the sacrifices these men made were pivotal to the broader war effort. You don’t want to miss this episode with a Boilermaker who’s uncovering Purdue Athletics’ unique military history — and helping bring these stories to global audiences! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
#155
October 29 · 39 min
Why Are Grocery Prices High? The Story Behind Inflation and Supply Chains
In this episode of “This Is Purdue,” we’re talking to Trey Malone, the Boehlje Chair in Managerial Economics for Agribusiness and associate professor of agricultural economics at Purdue University. Trey is an award-winning and nationally recognized agricultural economist. His timely insights on food-system trends have been featured in major outlets like The New York Times, USA Today, Time and CNBC. Before joining Purdue’s Department of Agricultural Economics, he held faculty positions at the University of Arkansas and Michigan State University. Today, Trey is breaking down topics that regularly grab headlines, especially during this holiday season: the rise in grocery prices and the overall state of the U.S. food system. In this episode, you will: Learn more about the realities behind the U.S. food supply chain, including how multiple factors like inflation and price volatility can impact the price of cooking and meal staples like eggs. Hear more about how the salience (or importance) and familiarity of food in our everyday lives fuel common misunderstandings and fears around our food system. Discover more about the long-term effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the price volatility of food and household staples like toilet paper — and why the U.S. food system is more resilient than we think. Find out how social media influencers and viral trends impact the food supply chain and how agricultural economists at Purdue use social listening data to predict future trends. Get insights into the current state and future of our food system, from the popularity of food delivery apps like Instacart and how they’re changing consumer decision-making to why agricultural economists like Trey are focused on food affordability and nutrition across income categories. Hear more about Trey’s upbringing and journey to Purdue, from his early years working at his family’s 1,400-acre cattle ranch in Oklahoma to gaining a PhD in agricultural economics from Oklahoma State University — and how this background motivates him to help farms and businesses thrive. Learn more about how Trey is preparing Boilermakers to lead and innovate in agricultural economics and how he’s creating opportunities for them to help farmers and agribusiness make key decisions. Tune in for tangible tips on how consumers can navigate rising grocery bills and save money this Thanksgiving — including avoiding impulse buys and finding deals at major retailers like Walmart and Aldi. You don’t want to miss this episode with a Purdue professor and agricultural economist who’s expanding the way we think about our food — and the people who grow it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
#154
October 15 · 49 min
The Hobby Revival: Creativity, Nostalgia and Community
In this episode of “This Is Purdue,” we’re talking to Haley Larsen (PhD English ’21), story lead of marketing and measurement at Pinterest. As a storytelling expert and creative strategist for a global visual engine and social media platform, Haley’s helping us dive into the fun, trending world of tactile hobbies — from knitting and pottery to mahjong and so much more! Haley is also a proud Purdue alumna with a background in English literature and culture. She’ll unpack the factors behind the recent hobby revival — fueled by Gen Z — and how Pinterest is meeting this moment. In this episode, you will: Learn more about how a pushback against hustle culture, a desire for connection and joy, and nostalgia for a prephone world are driving Gen Z’s interest in grandma-and-grandpa-core hobbies like crochet, scrapbooking and bird-watching. Hear more about Pinterest’s unique position as a major social platform that not only offers its users the ability to collect and curate visual inspiration but also encourages them to get offline to pursue their hobbies. Discover more about Haley’s favorite offline hobbies, including pottery, and how they’re pushing her outside of her creativity comfort zone and helping her find community. Get insights into the paradox of online hobby trends, including how this points to a broader human pattern and why engaging with online communities can help you develop your offline hobbies. Find out more about how slow, manual hobbies can improve your well-being and why the “friction” that comes with process-based activities is vital for self-reflection and self-development. Tune in for key takeaways from Pinterest’s Hobbies Trend Report, and how the platform’s rich search data predicts top hobby trends for the year, including “Kitchen Witch,” “Home Cafe Engineering” and “Handmade Hacker.” Learn more about Haley’s role and day to day as a story lead at Pinterest and how her Purdue liberal arts training set her up for career success with meaningful and measurable skills. You don’t want to miss this episode with a Boilermaker and creative who’s helping to inspire hobby enthusiasts across the world! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
September 28 · 34 min
Finding Amelia: Part 4 | The Search for Amelia Earhart’s Missing Plane
In the final episode of “Finding Amelia,” we’re talking to Steve Schultz, Purdue University’s senior vice president and general counsel. As a field assistant on the search expedition to identify Amelia Earhart’s missing plane, Steve might play a role in solving one of the greatest mysteries of the 20th century. He dives into the new evidence that sparked the Purdue Research Foundation and Archaeological Legacy Institute’s joint effort to search for Amelia’s plane and exclusive details about the upcoming journey to Nikumaroro, an island in the western Pacific Ocean. From encountering coconut crabs to using machetes to cut through the jungle, the team will have to brave rough terrain on this expedition. You don’t want to miss the fourth and final episode of the miniseries “Finding Amelia,” where we discuss Purdue’s persistent pursuit of answers to one of the world’s greatest mysteries. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
September 28 · 21 min
Finding Amelia: Part 3 | Uncovering Amelia Earhart’s Rare Artifacts and Memorabilia
In the third episode of “Finding Amelia,” we’re talking to Katey Watson, the France A. Córdova Archivist of Purdue Archives and Special Collections. Katey manages Purdue Libraries’ Amelia Earhart Collection and is sharing the personal items Amelia left behind – including her iconic aviator goggles, leather flight helmet and brown suede jacket. Katey also tells the story of why Amelia’s husband, George Palmer Putnam, along with his granddaughter Sally Putnam Chapman, chose to donate these significant historical items to Purdue University after the legendary Boilermaker’s disappearance. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
September 28 · 13 min
Finding Amelia: Part 2 | Amelia Earhart’s Plane”
In the second episode of “Finding Amelia,” we’re talking to Chad Pittman, president and CEO of the Purdue Research Foundation. He shares the story behind Amelia Earhart’s famed Purdue-funded Lockheed Electra 10-E airplane and how she planned to return it to West Lafayette once her around-the-world flight was complete. Don’t miss the second episode of this first-of-its-kind “This Is Purdue” series about this world-famous Boilermaker and legendary aviator. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
September 28 · 22 min
Finding Amelia: Part 1 | Who Was Amelia Earhart?
On what would’ve been Amelia Earhart’s 129th birthday — July 24, 2026 — the Purdue Research Foundation and the Archaeological Legacy Institute announced a renewed joint effort to identify Amelia Earhart’s missing university-sponsored plane. Ahead of this search expedition, “This Is Purdue” is taking you inside one of the greatest mysteries of the 20th century with our special miniseries “Finding Amelia.” In the first episode of “Finding Amelia,” we’re talking to Kelly Hiller, Purdue’s chief marketing officer. During her 20 years at Purdue, Kelly has led several marketing campaigns inspired by Amelia’s persistence, expanding her commitment to celebrate female trailblazers. She discusses the famous aviator’s journey to Purdue as an advisor within the Department of Aeronautics and her life before becoming a household name. Plus, we dive into the parts of her life and career that make Amelia one of the most iconic figures in history. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
#153
September 17 · 54 min
Why Focus Feels Harder Today and How To Train Your Brain
In this episode of “This Is Purdue,” we’re talking to two professors in the Daniels School of Business: Allie Gabriel, the Thomas J. Howatt Chair in Management in the Organizational Behavior and Human Resource Management Department and director of the Center for Working Well, and Kate Zipay, associate professor of organizational behavior and human resources. Allie and Kate are leading experts and researchers on employee well-being, work-life balance, performance and motivation. They were recently nominated for the Thinkers50 Radar Class of 2026, which recognizes 30 emerging management strategists from around the world. This award-winning duo joins the podcast for a thought-provoking conversation about how professionals can retrain their brains to master productivity and focus in today’s digital age — at work and home. In this episode, you will: Learn more about the difference between productivity and activity — and how “doomscrolling” on social media and constant email, Teams and Slack notifications can undermine our daily work tasks. Discover more about focus and cognitive stamina, like what these buzzwords really mean and how professionals can build their capacity for deep, meaningful work. Hear Allie’s and Kate’s tangible tips for retraining your brain to conquer digital distractions — like locking down your phone — and how they’re teaching their students to improve their digital well-being. Find out how to build a balanced “work diet” and why deep-thinking and low-stakes tasks are both vital parts of a healthy professional lifestyle. Dive deeper into how organizations can better support employee well-being and productivity and why leaders should start normalizing rest and recovery. Hear more about how “early bird” and “night owl” labels can inhibit our self-growth and how to plan your work schedule around the times that work best for you while still being collaborative. Explore why high performers are more susceptible to burnout and how rethinking your identity as a “doer” and setting boundaries can help improve your overall well-being. Learn more about Allie’s and Kate’s goals for the future and how Purdue is at the forefront of performance, productivity and well-being research. Gain insights into using AI to enhance productivity — and why it can give users a false sense of efficiency due to a lack of psychological ownership. You don’t want to miss this episode with two innovative Purdue business professors and researchers who are transforming the way we work — and how we take care of ourselves. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
#152
September 3 · 40 min
The Future of Sports Careers: From the NFL Fan Experience to Data Analytics
In this episode of “This Is Purdue,” we’re talking to Stephanie Pemberton (BA communication ’05), senior vice president of marketing for the Indianapolis Colts. For over 20 years, Stephanie has worked in multiple marketing and community relations roles within the Colts organization. As a proud Purdue alumna and marketing executive in the NFL, she has key insights into the future of sports careers and how students can break into the industry through its many diverse pathways. The Indiana native and sports marketing leader joins host Kate Young for an exciting interview from the Indiana Farm Bureau Football Center — near Purdue’s Indianapolis campus — to celebrate Purdue’s powerful new partnership launch with the Colts! In this episode, you will: Learn more about how the sports industry has evolved in the past few decades and what careers are the most in demand, including areas like fan experience, sports performance and data analytics. Find out what skills and experiences students need to gain if they want to land careers with professional sports organizations like the Colts, and what qualities set successful candidates apart. Hear how rapidly evolving technology like AI is being integrated into the Colts organization — and the NFL at large. Discover more about Stephanie’s background and path to working for the Colts, including how her time as an intern with Purdue Athletics helped launch her decadeslong NFL career. Tune in for more about Stephanie's vision for Purdue’s new partnership with the Colts and how it will accelerate the talent pipeline in Indianapolis. Learn more about what energizes Stephanie about the Colts’ future — like building a global audience — and why her commitment to the fans and community inspires her every day. You don’t want to miss this episode with a Boilermaker who’s invested in fostering the next generation of sports leaders! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
#151
August 20 · 32 min
Is TikTok Lying to You About Protein? The Truth About Nutrition Trends
In this episode of “This Is Purdue,” we’re talking to Lauren Link (BS dietetics/health, fitness and nutrition ’11, MS health and kinesiology ’19), assistant athletics director of sports nutrition for Purdue Athletics. As a registered dietitian, Lauren and her team manage the menu planning, nutrition education and food service for 18 varsity teams at Purdue, including basketball, football, volleyball and soccer. She’s also a proud graduate of Purdue’s College of Health and Human Sciences and a former collegiate athlete herself. The nutrition expert sits down with host Kate Young to debunk the myths — and explain the realities — behind the recent health crazes dominating our social media feeds. In this episode, you will: Learn more about what’s fueling viral nutrition trends on TikTok, including the protein craze and “fibermaxxing,” and why we should be cautious about who we get our health information from. Hear how doctors, dietitians and nutritionists can use social media to combat health and nutrition misinformation. Discover more about the national rise in the use of GLP-1s and how it’s impacting the protein industry and the overall population. Get the facts about the U.S. supplement industry and how to be more informed the next time you’re buying vitamins or supplements. See what Lauren has to say about the types (and amounts) of food the average adult needs to consume daily to stay physically and mentally well — without breaking the bank. Dive deeper into how AI is changing the health, nutrition and fitness space and Lauren’s expert tips for using AI for your weekly shopping and meal planning. Find out about Lauren’s vital nutrition coaching work with Purdue’s student-athletes and how she helps them perform at an elite level and center their well-being. Hear more about Lauren’s Boilermaker journey, including her time as a Purdue soccer player, and why she’s passionate about helping students successfully transition into life after elite sports. You don’t want to miss this fascinating episode with a Purdue alumna who’s empowering Boilermaker athletes in their health and nutrition journeys! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
#150
August 6 · 48 min
Hall of Fame Quarterback Drew Brees on Leadership and Life Beyond the NFL
In this episode of “This Is Purdue,” we’re talking to record-setting quarterback Drew Brees (BS industrial management ’01, HDR business ’26), who on Aug. 8 will be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. As a Super Bowl MVP, it’s safe to say Drew’s reputation precedes him. But what comes next for this entrepreneur and philanthropist? The Boilermaker legend sits down for a fascinating interview to discuss leadership, legacy and life after his 20-year career in professional football. In this episode, you will: Hear Drew reminisce about his journey from growing up in Austin, Texas, to becoming an award-winning and record-breaking quarterback at Purdue Dive deeper into the lessons he learned from Purdue coach Joe Tiller and the strong network he built as a Boilermaker, as well as how they prepared him to succeed in the NFL and beyond Learn more about Drew’s life-changing tenure with the New Orleans Saints, including his love of the city and “Who Dat Nation,” and how their strength during and after Hurricane Katrina inspired him Find out more about what it meant for Drew to receive an honorary doctorate in business from Purdue at the Spring 2026 Commencement Discover why he and his wife, Brittany (BS organizational leadership and supervision ’00), are passionate about giving back to their alma mater and why the university’s continued growth excites them Get the details about Drew’s induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2026 and what it meant to get a knock on the door from fellow NFL icon Dan Fouts Learn more about his next chapter, like his work with the Brees Dream Foundation, entrepreneurial endeavors and role as an NFL game analyst for Fox Sports Hear more about Drew’s mentorship of his kids — who are also budding athletes — and why he’s motivated to shape younger generations in this new phase of life You don’t want to miss this episode with an NFL powerhouse and celebrated Boilermaker who’s guiding the next generation of athletes and leaders! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
July 9 · 26 min
America at 250: Mitch Daniels on Higher Education, Free Speech and Democracy
In this special episode of “This Is Purdue,” we’re talking to Mitch Daniels, interim president of Purdue University, in celebration of America’s 250th birthday. Daniels served for 10 years as Purdue’s president (2013-22) and championed frozen tuition and student success during his tenure. Before this role, he was the 49th governor of Indiana (2005-13) and served as an advisor to President Ronald Reagan, and was director of the U.S. Office of Management and Budget under President George W. Bush. He sits down with podcast host Kate Young for an insightful conversation about the unique role that land-grant universities like Purdue have played in our nation’s growth and evolution. The two also discuss his Purdue legacy and the state of higher education, covering topics like academic freedom, civic responsibility, public impact and affordability. You don’t want to miss this timely episode with an innovative and respected leader in higher education. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
#149
May 28 · 43 min
So You Want to Be a Content Creator? Why a College Degree Is Still Important
In this episode of “This Is Purdue,” we’re talking to Lindsay Veremis Perrault, director of co-curricular engagement and lecturer for the Brian Lamb School of Communication. As a successful content creator, Lindsay has key insights into the future of digital content creation and how to empower students to transform their creative ideas into real-world impact through entrepreneurship and innovation. In this episode, you will: Discover why younger generations, like Gen Z and Gen Alpha, are increasingly drawn to careers in content creation and social media influencing, and why parents and mentors should encourage this viable interest and help develop their creativity and business skills Gain insights into today’s content creation industry, including how it differs from social media influencing and user-generated content creation and how evolving platforms as well as algorithms and AI are making it more competitive Hear more about the future of the content creation industry for various levels, from micro- to mega-influencers like “MrBeast” and Alix Earle, and why industry professionals are leveraging long-form content to cultivate staying power and build loyal audiences Learn more about Lindsay’s role at Purdue, including her new course on digital content creation and social media and how it’s preparing Boilermakers to succeed and adapt in an ever-evolving industry Find out more about Lindsay’s background as a news anchor who became a content creator and blogger and how a master’s degree in strategic communication at Purdue helped empower this journey Dive deeper into her social media presence and blog, called “Anchored in Elegance” and aimed at elevating fashion for petite women, her passion for this hobby and how she prioritizes her mental health in an industry that demands 24/7 engagement You don’t want to miss this episode with a Purdue alumna who’s shaping the next generation of digital content creators and innovators! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
#148
May 14 · 30 min
How Speedway, Indiana, Became the Racing Capital of the World and the Home of the Indy 500
In this episode of “This Is Purdue,” we’re talking to Nick Sturgeon (MS cybersecurity and trusted systems ’15), Speedway Town Council member and former council president. As a proud Purdue alumnus and longtime Speedway, Indiana, resident, Nick is an Indianapolis 500 expert and has firsthand knowledge about how Boilermakers help shape “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing” every year. This is also an extra special episode of “This Is Purdue” because host Kate Young is joined by a co-host: Trevor Peters, Purdue spokesperson and longtime Indy 500 fan and attendee. (If you’ve attended a Boilermaker football game in the past 10 years, you’ve probably heard Trevor emceeing!) In this episode, you will: Learn more about what it’s like living in Speedway and how the town prepares to host the world’s largest single-day sporting event each May before the green flag drops Discover more about Purdue’s Indy 500 legacy, from alumni serving as race-day organizers and working as engineers in the pits at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, to students playing in the “All-American” Marching Band Find out why Speedway is the perfect town to host the Indy 500, from a strong legacy of tradition to its energetic downtown, especially ahead of its centennial celebration Hear more about Nick’s time as town council president and how he played a vital role in revitalizing economic growth and tourism, including helping to recruit motorsports manufacturing giant Dallara Learn more about his background as an Indiana state trooper and his current PhD studies in cybersecurity and forensics at Purdue, including how it enhances his various roles in Speedway Gain insights into Nick’s favorite Indy 500 memories, his tips for first-time racegoers and race-day predictions — and his bright hopes for the future of Speedway You don’t want to miss this episode with a Purdue alum who’s helping to bring this popular spectacle to life for millions of fans worldwide! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
#147
April 30 · 42 min
The Science Behind Modern Fashion: Engineering, Fabrics and Sustainability
In this episode of “This Is Purdue,” we’re talking to Lauren Bright (BS multidisciplinary engineering ’11), founder and principal consultant of Torus, an innovative textile consulting firm based in Portland, Oregon. As a Purdue alumna and leader at the intersection of science and art, Lauren has a demonstrated passion for driving change in the global textile industry. She’s diving into how her interdisciplinary background helps her advance sustainability in today’s fashion world. In this episode, you will: Learn more about the fast fashion industry, including what factors set it apart from traditional seasonal fashion, why it appeals to people, and its impact on the environment and our bodies. Discover how social media marketing influences our decision-making, especially when it comes to our fashion choices and the counter movement of “slow fashion.” Hear about Lauren’s work in the textile industry and how Torus is a powerful platform for systems-level change through research, policy advocacy and partnership-building with nonprofits, brands and more. Find out more about her journey in Purdue’s multidisciplinary engineering program and how she gained invaluable skills in STEM and art, which set her up for career success. Learn more about Lauren’s background working for elite brands such as Nike, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, Columbia Sportswear Co. and Gap Inc. Explore Lauren’s practical tips for being a more sustainable consumer, like thrifting and creating a capsule wardrobe. Gain insights into her hopes for the future of fashion sustainability, including stronger industry regulation. You don’t want to miss this episode with a STEM and fashion innovator who’s changing what we wear — for the better. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
#146
April 16 · 41 min
True Crime, Cold Cases and the ‘CSI’ Effect: A Forensic Science Deep Dive
In this episode of “This Is Purdue,” we’re talking to Krystal Hans, director of forensic science and assistant professor of forensic entomology at Purdue University. As the only board-certified forensic entomologist in the Midwest, Krystal is a well-known expert in her field. And she’s digging into how insects affect crime investigations and cold cases. In this episode, you will: Learn more about the truth behind true crime on TV (think “Law & Order”) versus reality and how the “CSI” effect can impact the outcomes of real-life cases Discover more about forensic entomology, from Krystal’s early love of insects to the crucial job experts like her have when collecting evidence at crime scenes Hear more about Krystal’s roles leading Hans Lab, where she collects and analyzes insect evidence and mentors students, and Hans Forensics, where she consults on current investigations Gain knowledge about student experiences with real Indiana cold cases in Krystal’s popular forensic investigation class — which has grown to over 200 students — and how their contributions can change the trajectory of investigations Understand more about society’s fascination with true crime and the importance of empathy and ethical advocacy for victims and their loved ones Learn more about the Cold Case Symposium, which provides a platform for families of victims to connect with law enforcement and the community You don’t want to miss this episode with a leading forensic entomologist who’s preparing the next generation of Boilermakers to be more empathetic and inquisitive professionals in their fields. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
#145
April 3 · 21 min
Live from IND: Final Four and the Host City Experience
In this episode of “This Is Purdue,” we’re coming to you live from Indianapolis – home to Purdue’s urban campus and this year’s host city of the NCAA Men’s Final Four! We’re talking to Ken Halpin, Purdue’s deputy athletics director and chief operating officer, and Julie Roe Lach, executive vice president of external relations and community engagement for Pacers Sports & Entertainment. These two sports experts join host Kate Young at the Indianapolis International Airport as Final Four weekend kicks off to discuss how major sporting events like this connect basketball fans and elevate the Indianapolis economy and community as well as the unique culture and record-breaking successes of Purdue’s basketball program this season. Join “This Is Purdue” as we celebrate the ninth time that the Circle City has hosted the Final Four. In 49 states, it’s just basketball, but this is Indiana. Don’t miss this live episode filled with energy and excitement! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
#144
March 19 · 38 min
In 49 Other States, It’s Just Basketball — Why Indiana Loves the Game
In this episode of “This Is Purdue,” we’re talking to Mark Montieth, author and sports journalist. Mark is a renowned basketball historian with a decades-long career reporting for publications like the Indianapolis Star and Journal Gazette (Fort Wayne). As an Indiana native, he’s an expert on the state’s famous basketball culture and fandom, and how Purdue has played a key role in this rich legacy. Mark has a unique perspective because he’s covered basketball at all levels. He’ll share his inside observations on why Indiana is the state for basketball, ahead of the NCAA Tournament that will culminate with the Final Four in downtown Indianapolis on April 4 and 6. This is also another exciting episode for “This Is Purdue” because host Kate Young is joined by a special co-host: Derek Schultz, Purdue spokesman and Indy sports personality! In this episode, you will: Explore more about Mark’s upbringing in Indiana, his early love of sports and writing, and his journey to becoming one of the most respected sports journalists in the state Dive into why Indiana is the state for basketball, from its historic dedication to high school teams to the enduring legacies of players like Rick Mount and Reggie Miller Learn about Mark’s time documenting legendary Purdue basketball coach Gene Keady and the 1988 basketball team’s epic journey, which became the basis for his book “Passion Play: A Season With the Purdue Boilermakers and Coach Gene Keady” Hear more about Purdue’s impact on basketball, from fan loyalty to famous rivalries Get Mark’s insights on the 2026 Final Four and why Indianapolis is the perfect place to host one of the country’s biggest sports events You don’t want to miss Mark’s career-defining stories about local basketball history and culture. In 49 other states, it’s just basketball, but this is Indiana! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
#143
March 5 · 35 min
Bracketology 101: How To Build a Winning Tournament Bracket
In this episode of “This Is Purdue,” we’re talking to Jerry Palm (BS computer science ’85), a nationally recognized bracketology savant. Jerry was previously the lead bracketologist at CBS Sports and has made countless national media appearances discussing all things college sports. Now he leads his own bracketology website, where he shares his data-driven projections on NCAA Tournament and College Football Playoff team selections and seedings. Jerry breaks down his expert bracket strategy, which is perfectly timed ahead of the upcoming NCAA Tournament that will culminate with the Final Four in downtown Indianapolis on April 4 and 6! This is also an exciting episode for “This Is Purdue” because, for the first time, host Kate Young is joined by a special co-host: Derek Schultz, Purdue spokesman and Indy sports personality! In this episode, you will: Learn more about Jerry’s trailblazing path to being a leading bracketologist Gain knowledge about the art and science behind bracketology, and how Jerry balances both to help make accurate predictions for team selections and seedings Hear about the origins of the bracketology field and Jerry’s journey from accessing scores in the library in the ’90s to utilizing cutting-edge technologies and forecasting tools today Discover more about Jerry’s ties to Purdue, including his family’s Boilermaker legacy and how being a computer science and “All-American” Marching Band alum shaped his passion for sports and STEM Learn more about his seeding predictions for the 2026 NCAA season and how factors like NBA prospects and big wins on away courts can impact bracket performance for experts and fans Basketball fans – this is the perfect episode for you! Don’t miss Jerry’s elite bracket and industry insights, just in time for tournament season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
#142
February 19 · 37 min
The State of Student Well-being: What Gen Z and Gen Alpha Need Now
In this episode of “This Is Purdue,” we’re talking to Beth McCuskey, Purdue’s vice provost for student life. Beth is a national thought leader on student mental health and has worked in higher education for over 30 years. She co-authored the upcoming book titled “The Oxford Handbook of Well-Being in Higher Education,” which explores why wellness is critical in higher education. During her time at Purdue, she’s prioritized advocating for Boilermakers’ well-being journeys with key university investment and participation from faculty and staff. In this episode, you will: Learn more about the state of well-being for younger generations and why it’s important to meet students where they are to help them flourish inside and outside of the classroom. Discover how adults — like parents, coaches and mentors — can normalize failure and nurture well-being for Gen Z and Gen Alpha students and why that can help build vital life skills, like resilience, and prepare students to be successful in college. Hear more about how well-being and mental health have evolved from millennials to Gen Z to Gen Alpha and how technology, like smartphones and now AI, is playing a vital role in shaping student needs. Find out more about learning loss during the pandemic and Purdue Student Life’s innovative Steps to Leaps framework, which increased access to campus mental health resources and institutionalized well-being and was recognized by Forbes in 2025. You don’t want to miss this episode with a campus leader who's transforming student mental health and well-being advocacy at Purdue and beyond. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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