What It's Like To Be...

In this engaging talk, Trayvon Robinson, a professional baseball player with 19 years of experience, shares his journey through the minor leagues and his brief MLB stint. He vividly recalls the hustle of minor league life, including travel on sleeper buses and superstitions that kept him grounded. Trayvon's emotional major-league debut included a memorable catch that landed him on SportsCenter. He also opens up about the mental challenges of hitting, the pressure of constant auditions, and his transition to coaching, finding purpose after retirement.

Join seismologist Lucy Jones, a pioneer in earthquake science from Southern California, as she explores the intricacies of monitoring seismic activity and advocates for earthquake preparedness. She shares her unique approach to counting waves during tremors and explains how a nuclear test ban treaty inadvertently advanced seismic research. Discover why earthquakes are inevitable as LA inches toward Alaska and learn about her compelling strategies for engaging communities in disaster readiness through vivid scenarios and storytelling.

Cindy Wolf, a James Beard-winning executive chef and owner of Charleston in Baltimore, shares her culinary journey. She dives into the art of butchering whole alligators and crafting dishes like grilled sweetbreads. Cindy reveals what it was like to cook for the legendary Julia Child and discusses her desire to remove certain popular items from her menu. The conversation also touches on the challenges of managing a fine-dining kitchen, from staff dynamics to precise cost calculations for her signature dishes.

Join Stephen Krupin, a seasoned speechwriter who crafted powerful addresses for President Obama and other leaders. He shares the intricate dance of writing for the ear, highlighting the emotional weight behind Memorial Day speeches and the challenges of connecting personal stories to a broader audience. Stephen delves into the balance of authenticity and creativity in speechwriting, recounting amusing tales from his White House days, and emphasizing the irreplaceable human touch in crafting resonant messages.

Join floral decorator Paul Hawkins, known for his stunning arrangements for weddings and even royalty, as he shares his experiences in the vibrant world of floral design. Discover the chaotic yet thrilling routine of 3am market runs and the pressure of high-end events. Paul reveals why mixing red and white flowers is a faux pas and shares his unique approach to balancing creativity with client demands. He also gives a peek into the emotional impact of his work, crafting fleeting masterpieces that leave lasting memories.

Justin Snodgrass, a seasoned car mechanic with over 30 years of experience and owner of Snodgrass Auto Repair in Colorado, shares fascinating insights into the automotive world. He discusses the detective work behind diagnosing vehicle issues, including a humorous tale of a Cadillac's troublesome seat. Justin reveals the shady side of $19.99 oil changes and the complexities of pricing repairs. Plus, he highlights the unique challenges and rewarding moments that keep him passionate about solving automotive mysteries.

Join Rose Davin, a seasoned pharmacy technician and buyer from Rochester, New York, as she shares insights from over 20 years in the field. Learn about the critical role pharmacy techs play in medication safety, from counting pills to managing million-dollar drugs. Rose discusses the rigorous safeguards preventing opioid theft and the emotional impact of medication errors. Discover the staggering costs of life-saving medications and the complexities of the prescription process. Her stories paint a vivid picture of a vital, often overlooked profession.

Steve Love, CFO at SIFT, specializes in online fraud prevention and has an impressive background in finance with both public and private tech companies. He discusses the balancing act of forecasting earnings while managing team demands and the importance of resource allocation. Steve shares a gripping story of addressing a significant financial miscalculation in front of investors, revealing the high stakes of financial credibility. He also reflects on the emotional toll of layoff decisions and the evolving role of CFOs in navigating complex startup environments.

Steven Peljovich, owner of Michael's Deli in Boston, passionately discusses the art of traditional deli culture. He shares the intricate process of turning brisket into corned beef and the importance of human interaction in a tech-driven world. Steven reflects on memorable customer relationships, particularly with longtime patron Rita Manor, and emphasizes the charm of delivering quality service. He also touches on the challenges of integrating online orders while keeping the heart of the deli alive through genuine connections.

Allissa Haines, a massage therapist with 20 years of experience, shares her unique insights from the field. She discusses the role of music, particularly Mozart, in enhancing the massage experience. Allissa navigates the challenges of client interactions, including enforcing boundaries with inappropriate requests. Touching on emotional moments, she recounts a moving house call that made her cry. Additionally, she delves into the importance of effective communication and the multifaceted nature of running a massage therapy practice.