The Bulldog Mindset: The Long View of Leadership: Season 2: Episode 12
Thu Feb 05 2026
One year can change everything.
In this episode of The Bulldog Mindset, host Greg Pillar sits down with Gardner-Webb University President Nate Evans at a pivotal moment in the life of the institution. In Feb. 2025, Evans stepped into the presidency during a season of transition at interim. Today, with a longer horizon ahead, and as the 14th President of Gardner-Webb, Evans reflects on what it means to lead with steadiness when clarity is still forming.
This dialogue goes beneath the surface of titles and timelines, exploring trust, communication, faith, and the work required to hold a university steady in changing times. Evans shares how his background in the military and advancement shaped his leadership approach, how he thinks about the academic experience Gardner-Webb must deliver for today’s students, and why unity, mission, and people remain at the center of every decision.
It’s an honest, thoughtful dialogue about leadership rooted in care, conviction, and long-term purpose.
Theme music: “Honey for Nothing” by Ikoliks
Tune in now to explore how curiosity, mentorship, and hands-on experience are shaping student success at Gardner-Webb. Learn more about GWU’s podcast series at gardner-webb.edu/podcast.
#BulldogMindset #GardnerWebb #Leadership #HigherEd #AcademicLeadership #OneWebb #PurposeDriven #UniversityLife #GWUPodcast
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One year can change everything. In this episode of The Bulldog Mindset, host Greg Pillar sits down with Gardner-Webb University President Nate Evans at a pivotal moment in the life of the institution. In Feb. 2025, Evans stepped into the presidency during a season of transition at interim. Today, with a longer horizon ahead, and as the 14th President of Gardner-Webb, Evans reflects on what it means to lead with steadiness when clarity is still forming. This dialogue goes beneath the surface of titles and timelines, exploring trust, communication, faith, and the work required to hold a university steady in changing times. Evans shares how his background in the military and advancement shaped his leadership approach, how he thinks about the academic experience Gardner-Webb must deliver for today’s students, and why unity, mission, and people remain at the center of every decision. It’s an honest, thoughtful dialogue about leadership rooted in care, conviction, and long-term purpose. Theme music: “Honey for Nothing” by Ikoliks Tune in now to explore how curiosity, mentorship, and hands-on experience are shaping student success at Gardner-Webb. Learn more about GWU’s podcast series at gardner-webb.edu/podcast. #BulldogMindset #GardnerWebb #Leadership #HigherEd #AcademicLeadership #OneWebb #PurposeDriven #UniversityLife #GWUPodcast