

What It's Like To Be...
Dan Heath
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.
Episodes
Mentioned books

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 • 28min
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.

7 snips
Nov 14, 2023 • 29min
A Forensic Accountant
Chris Ekimoff, a forensic accountant who specializes in catching embezzling CFOs and sniffing out corruption, discusses his go-to moves to detect fraud. He shares intriguing cases of financial fraud and embezzlement, emphasizing the significance of tracking spending and providing detailed reports in court. The personal impact and importance of trust in relationships are also explored. From catching criminals like Al Capone to the need for controls and compliance measures, this podcast offers a fascinating insight into the world of forensic accounting.

Oct 31, 2023 • 30min
A TV Meteorologist
Explore the demanding schedule and sacrifices of a TV meteorologist, including early mornings and strict bedtimes. Discuss the constant analysis of weather data and simplifying complex information for the public. Experience of being treated like a folk hero and facing unwanted attention. Lightning round discussing 'deformation zone' and competitiveness in the Oklahoma City market. Frustration with weather apps and the future of TV meteorologists in the age of easily accessible weather data.

Oct 15, 2023 • 28min
A Criminal Defense Attorney
A criminal defense attorney discusses the misconceptions about defense attorneys and the portrayal of Miranda rights. They highlight the importance of representing accused individuals and share insights into interesting cases, including a man charged with burglary for breaking into his own house. They also explore the challenges and rewards of being a criminal defense attorney.

Oct 15, 2023 • 28min
A Couples Therapist
Laura Heck, virtual couples therapist and co-host of Marriage Therapy Radio, discusses topics such as mystery dates, adult playrooms, habit stacking, and the misuse of 'narcissism' in therapy. She shares insights into observing emotional responses in the first session, the role of psycho education influenced by John Gottman, fear-striking phrases faced by therapists, and the importance of working through people to improve relationships.