Brad and Mr. Perry on Legacy, Leadership, and Life Beyond the Swimming Lanes
In Episode 31 of The Late Start Show, Charlie Martin and Jack Nelson sit down with legendary math and law teacher, swim coach, and University School alum Mr. Perry, joined by his son, senior swim captain and theater tech standout Brad Perry. From coaching summer rec teams to winning ten state championships, Mr. Perry shares his remarkable path from civil litigation to inspiring generations of US students in the classroom and in the pool. Brad opens up about growing up at US, leading one of the school’s most successful swim teams, and balancing his passion for competitive swimming with a deep commitment to theater lighting design.
The father-son duo reflects on what it means to carry a five-generation US legacy, the life lessons learned from grueling practices and packed natatoriums, and the joy of doing what you love, even if it means getting up before dawn. Whether it’s “walking in a Perry Wonderland” or soaking in the post-practice satisfaction, this episode is packed with stories, laughs, and heartfelt reflections on family, dedication, and legacy.
Credits to Theo Walter for Production and Editing, Russ Nobles for the Intro and Outro songs, Mr. Wickboldt for being our advisor, and you for listening to our podcast and keeping up with the latest US news.
Mr. Perry is a distinguished math and law teacher and the Head Swimming & Diving Coach at University School. An alumnus from the Class of 1989, he was appointed Varsity Swimming & Diving Coach in 2000 and joined the faculty in 1999. He has led the US swim team to an impressive eleven OHSAA State Championships since 2009 and has been recognized multiple times as Coach of the Year. Mr. Perry holds a JD from Indiana University and a master of arts in education from Ursuline College, and he previously practiced civil litigation. His family boasts a five-generation legacy at University School, and he also directed an a cappella group in college.
Brad Perry is a senior at University School, serving as a captain for the swim team and a standout in theater technology. As a "full lifer," he has attended University School since kindergarten, marking his thirteenth year. Brad has contributed to multiple state championship relay teams, including first-place finishes. He is passionate about theater lighting design and plans to pursue a college major in theater with an emphasis on design and production.