Palma Alumni Webcast Series

Welcome!

The Palma Alumni Webcast is a weekly webcast hosted by Abe Lincoln ’88. We interview alumni from a diverse range of backgrounds, spanning several decades, career fields, and interests to discuss their experiences at Palma and life after graduation.

If you were a part of Palma’s history, we would love to have you as our guest. To be considered as a possible guest on the show, to nominate another alum as a guest, email Mandy Lebow at lebow@palmaschool.org

The views and opinions expressed in each episode are those of the guests, and do not necessarily reflect the views of Palma School, the Palma Alumni Association, or any of its officials.

David Zwingman '64

Our latest interview features David Zwingman ’64. David is a retired licensed engineer who worked at the Johnson Space Center. His specialty was Flight Vehicle Dynamics. He worked on all types of space vehicles from the Apollo Program through the Space Shuttle era. After the Shuttle program, he worked with a large team on the initial orbital dynamics of the Space Station.

JT Camp '91

Today, we have the privilege of sharing a special edition alumni webcast with you. Our distinguished guest, JT Camp, a member of the class of ’91, served as the Lead Criminal Investigator for the San Luis Obispo County District Attorney’s office on the Kristin Smart murder case. For those who have followed the “Your Own Backyard” podcast by Chris Lambert in recent years, no further explanation is necessary. However, for those who are unfamiliar, I will provide a brief overview.

In 1995, Kristin Smart was tragically subjected to a heinous act of rape and murder. For over 25 years, the case remained unresolved. However, in 2021, a significant breakthrough occurred when Paul Flores was charged, prosecuted, and ultimately sentenced for the killing of Kristin. This case captured worldwide attention over the past few years, and thanks to the exceptional efforts of the prosecution team, albeit delayed, justice was served. We take great pride in and express immense gratitude for JT’s pivotal role in this pursuit of justice.

To listen to the “Your Own Backyard” podcast, click on the button below.

Casey Aguilar '99

Our interview features Casey Aguilar ’99. Casey is the Director of Operations for MOD pizza. IN his interview, he reflects on the Palma Brotherhood and how he applied the expectations of commitment in the classroom to the baseball field.

Dan Murphy - Faculty ('77-'87)

Our latest interview features Dan Murphy aka Murph, a former teacher and one of our beloved bagpipe players. Murph brought the tradition of the bagpipes to the home games and rallies.

It was so much fun reminiscing with Murph. We can’t wait to share his interview with you!

Esteban Ochoa '87

Esteban (Steve) Ochoa ’87 served with the United States Airforce for twenty-two years. Esteban retired from the Airforce in 2009 but still serves his Country in a civilian role as a Deployment Manager at Travis Airforce Base.

Brian Courrejou '95

Brian Courrejou ’95 is an author, and producer for Candid Camera television show. Brian studied film and screenwriting at the University of California, Santa Barbara.

Brian is the author of  two children’s books, No Bees Please! and More Bees Please!

If you are interested in following Brian:

Brian Reader '07

This episode features Brian Reader ’07. At Palma High School, Brian broke several school records in passing for 2,411 yards and 19 TDs as he completed 64 percent of his passes. He was the Tri-County Athletic League, MVP, and All-League quarterback. He was on the Monterey County Herald All-Monterey County Football team. He was chosen by the Salinas Californian as the Monterey County Offensive Player of the Year.

In his interview, Brian gives an insight into his journey from being a high school football player to playing in college and beyond. Brian finished the season as the Running Back Coach at the University of Northern Colorado.

Brenda (McGilvray) Beers '87

Brenda Beers ’87 is a Notre Dame alumna. Brenda was involved in ASB and sports throughout high school. Brenda took her love of high school and shared it for thirteen years as the Director of Student Activities at Notre Dame Preparatory High School in Arizona.

Dr. David Ebert '76

Dr. David Ebert ’76, a Shark Biologist is also known as the “Lost Shark Guy.” He has written 30 books and has named over 50 sharks. You can also find David on the Discovery Channel during Shark Week.

“Jaws made studying sharks cool, Dave Ebert takes shark discovery to the next level.”Dr. David Ebert '76

If you are interested in following David, click on the icons below.

Daniel (Aaron) Burns '16

Daniel (Aaron) Burns ’16 graduated from Fresno State, went on to the New York Film Academy, and is currently an Editorial PA for Lionsgate.

If you are interested in following Daniel or have any questions on how to get started in the industry, contact Daniel: danielaburns87.wixsite.com/mysit 

Daryl (Escalera) Lyon - Faculty '87-'11

Daryl (Escalera) Lyon taught at Palma from the fall of 1987 to the Spring of 2011. Daryl reflects on her 24 years at Palma. 

Jon Dalman '84

Jon Dalman ’84 takes you on his journey as he becomes a private investigator in Georgia. Jon’s background in the mental health field gave him the empathy he needed to do his job as a bounty hunter which led to his current role as a private investigator.

“To Thine Own Self Be True,” William Shakespeare

Renee Rivellini '89

Renee Rivellini ’89 is a single mom raising her 13 year old son. Renee is a personal trainer and coach, “bringing happy and healthy to people.” She is also a motivational speaker and TV personality.

“I’m proud of my journey; seeing life through different lenses brings me joy. Those dark moments and trials had a purpose.”

If you are interested in following Renee, you will find her :

TikTok : @TeamReneeAllDay

Reno DiTullio, Jr. '88

Reno DiTullio ’88 served 34 years at the California Department of Forestry & Fire Protection (CAL FIRE). As you will hear, Reno reflects on his journey from high school to his recent retirement and what he has learned about himself during his experiences with CAL FIRE.

“Nature is my therapy. Hard Work, Service, and Purpose” are my core values.”