
What It's Like To Be...
Curious what it would be like to walk in someone else’s (work) shoes? Join New York Times bestselling author Dan Heath as he explores the world of work, one profession at a time, and interviews people who love what they do. What does a couples therapist think when a friend asks for relationship advice? What happens if a welder fails to wear safety glasses? What can get a stadium beer vendor fired? If you’ve ever met someone whose work you were curious about, and you had 100 nosy questions but were too polite to ask … well, this is the show for you.
Latest episodes

4 snips
Mar 19, 2024 • 38min
(BONUS) From Choiceology: “The Superforecasters”
Exploring the decision-making process behind President Obama's raid on Osama bin Laden's compound, highlighting the risks and uncertainties involved. Insights on forecasting accuracy and the development of 'super forecasters' through probability training and team collaboration for improved predictions.

Mar 12, 2024 • 30min
A Turnaround Consultant
Explore the challenges of guiding struggling companies, making tough personnel decisions, uncovering fraudulent practices, managing cash flow in consultancy, and resolving family business challenges with a turnaround consultant.

Feb 27, 2024 • 30min
A Nurse
A nurse shares intense moments from a code blue situation and humorous aspects like 'Code Brown'. The emotional toll of nursing trauma and burn victims is discussed. The precise pre-surgery routine and dynamics with young doctors are explored. Handling multiple burn patients during a crisis and the chaotic reality are depicted. Nursing passion, purpose, and challenges drive the narrative of dedication and resilience in the profession.

Feb 13, 2024 • 30min
A Stand-Up Comedian
Stand-up comedian Chris Grace discusses the challenges of crafting jokes, finding gigs, and improvising based on audience reactions. They delve into his worst bombing experience and the concept of a 'bringer' show. They also explore the life and business of a stand-up comedian, the profession of stand-up comedy, comedy terms, audience size, and the intense feedback loop of stand-up comedy.

Jan 30, 2024 • 29min
A Hair Stylist
A hair stylist with 27 years of experience shares their approach to hairstyling, dealing with indecisive clients, and the influence of face features on hairstyles. They reflect on their journey to becoming a hairstylist and the unique relationships formed with clients. The podcast hosts discuss the book 'Working' and the significance of learning from mistakes. The speaker contemplates buying the salon, reflects on owning a larger business during the pandemic, and emphasizes the importance of faith. The chapter also explores different payment models for stylists and the importance of clear feedback in the hairstyling process.

Jan 16, 2024 • 30min
A Welder
Discover the journey and challenges of becoming a welder, including the importance of constantly improving and identifying well-done welds through inspections and x-ray testing. Explore the frustrations of the job, the shortage of welders, and the potential career path for welders in quality control. Learn about welding safety concerns, common injuries, and the fear of going to the doctor

Jan 2, 2024 • 27min
A Piano Teacher
A piano teacher shares her approach to teaching piano, building trust and achieving quick wins. They discuss teaching students of various ages, changing the approach to teaching piano, and the world of pedagogy. The speaker also highlights the impactful teaching of Francis Clark and the long-term nature of piano lessons.

Dec 20, 2023 • 30min
A Professional Santa Claus
Larry Jefferson, a professional Santa Claus based in Dallas, discusses his experience attending 'Santa School', handling kids' requests Santa could never grant, and the impact of their race as a black Santa Claus. They also talk about sleigh refurbishing, payment arrangements for Santas, and childhood memories of Christmas.

Dec 12, 2023 • 30min
A High School Principal
Marcus Belin, high school principal in Illinois, shares insights on managing parent complaints, dealing with teenage social media, and the challenges of being an emergency substitute teacher. He discusses the importance of building authentic relationships with students and recognizing them as individuals. The chapter also explores the impact of social media on high school experience and the need for better digital citizenship education. Additionally, educational terms like IEP and 504 are explained, and advice for a better high school experience is shared.

Nov 28, 2023 • 30min
A Mystery Novelist
Donna Andrews, the mystery novelist behind the Meg Langslow series, discusses scouting body disposal sites, investigating obscure poisons, and computing royalty payments. They explore the mystery writing process, unusual murder methods, and the economics of being a mystery novelist. They also touch on the challenges of making a living as a writer and share insights into the work of Agatha Christie.
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