I Will Always Love Butler - Kate Garnes '08

In the inaugural episode of 'Bear Tracks,' Butler Community College's official podcast, host Hayley Hobbs introduces Kate Garnes, a former Butler student and current motivational speaker. Kate shares her inspiring journey from her humble beginnings in Missouri to attending Butler Community College and Wichita State University before landing her dream job at Disney.

Reflecting on her time at Butler, Kate highlights the college's significant impact on her, particularly the supportive community, dedicated staff, and robust vocal music department. These foundational experiences helped shape her work ethic and confidence, which were crucial to her later success.

Kate discusses the challenges and realizations she faced in her career, including the pivotal moment she decided to transition into motivational speaking. She also touches upon Generation Z's unique qualities and struggles, offering insights into how Butler's nurturing environment can help students thrive. The episode concludes with Kate's current endeavors and her ongoing appreciation of Butler's influence on her personal and professional growth.

Creators & Guests

Host

Hayley Hobbs

Hayley Hobbs, Director of Donor Relations - I am a 2009 graduate of Butler and have been working at Butler Community College Foundation since 2012 where I oversee database administration, event management, marketing and communications, and more. Recent accomplishments include writing a successful Bank of America Neighborhood Champions Grant and being recognized as a 2023 Wichita Business Journal Young Professional in Professional Service. One of my other duties as assigned jobs currently is leading the Centennial Committee as Butler Community College approaches its 100th birthday in 2027. For this and many other reasons, I am excited to be the host of Bear Tracks: The Official Butler Community College Podcast.

Guest

Kate Garnes

Originally from the great state of Missouri, Kate was an only child raised by a strong single mom, on unsweet tea, playing outside, and old school Nickelodeon cartoons. Growing up small compared to others her age, Kate always felt the need to try to chase that pesky little thing called perfection, which was a losing fight. In working with youth for over ten years, Kate can see the same chase for perfection in teens that she saw in herself. She uses her story of being told she was never good enough to becoming a performer at Walt Disney World to becoming an author and gladiator, not because anyone saved her, but because she learned how to save herself. Kate is luckily enough to have called the stage home since she was a young girl. Kate has performed as a dancer and actor all around Orlando, Florida including including Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, Seaworld Orlando, Legoland. and regional Theaters. Kate has also toured the country with a National Dance Competition tour as their resident Emcee. In 2019 Kate published her first book, based on her keynote talk. Kate’s energy, humor, and genuine love for others has captivated audiences from California to Florida. She spends her life trying to speak to as many teens as possible in the hopes that they will stop listening to the lies they have believed for so long, and start accepting the gladiator of greatness that is inside them. Her energy, humor, and genuine love for others has captivated audiences from California to Florida.

What is Bear Tracks - The Official Podcast of Butler Community College?

Welcome to Bear Tracks, the official Butler Community College podcast. We are excited to use this platform as a journey to share stories from alumni, supporters, current students, faculty, staff, and community members about why Butler Community College is such a special place to learn and grow.

Butler is also turning 100 years old soon! The college is looking toward celebrating this milestone in 2027-2028. This is even MORE reason we want to hear from our alumni and friends about what makes Butler the incredible place it is. If you want to reach out to us, you can email the show at [e-mail].

Share your OWN story with us by writing in – and hey! Maybe we’ll share it on the show.

We're looking forward to bringing you stories and news from near and far about the home of the Grizzlies.