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In this special bonus episode, Andrew McDonald joins Roy Brown on Billings Catholic Radio’s On the Spot podcast for a conversation about the vision behind Rooted & Rising and the role storytelling plays in the life of Catholic schools.

Together, they explore why creating space to share the everyday moments of school life matters, how storytelling strengthens connection and trust within a community, and what it means to lead with both clarity and transparency in Catholic education.

Originally recorded for On the Spot, this conversation offers a broader look at the purpose of Rooted & Rising while reflecting on the mission, challenges, and opportunities shaping our schools today.

If you like this episode, check out more On the Spot at: https://billingscatholicradio.podbean.com/

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In this episode of Rooted & Rising, Andrew McDonald sits down with a group of graduating seniors to reflect on their journey through Billings Catholic Schools as they prepare to take their next steps.

The conversation looks back on growth, academic, personal, and spiritual, and forward to what lies ahead. Students share moments that shaped them, lessons learned beyond the classroom, and the role faith, community, and relationships played in their formation. They also reflect on what it means to feel prepared: not just for college or careers, but for life beyond high school.

This episode offers an honest, hopeful glimpse into who these students are becoming and serves as a reminder of the lasting impact of a Catholic education rooted in purpose and relationship.

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In this episode of Rooted & Rising, Andrew McDonald sits down with Mrs. Jenni Sogaard and her senior daughter for a conversation that bridges classroom innovation, student experience, and the future of learning.

Jenni shares what’s new and exciting in her science classroom, the importance of science education in a Catholic school, and her enthusiasm for the upcoming renovation of science labs designed for 21st‑century learning. Brynn, her daughter, offers a student’s perspective, reflecting on her science education over four years and what it has meant to learn in an environment that encourages curiosity, critical thinking, and wonder.

Together, they explore how faith and science work hand‑in‑hand, how learning spaces matter, and why investing in both people and places is essential for forming students prepared to engage thoughtfully with the world.