The 92 Report

Will Bachman

Conversations with the Harvard and Radcliffe Class of 1992, hosted by Will Bachman '92. Every member of the class has a story to tell, and the goal is to interview every one of them. There are 1,600 members of the class, so at a rate of one episode per week, this project will take 30 years. Register for email updates at 92report.com

  1. 3D AGO

    159. Josh Morgerman, World's Top Hurricane Chaser

    Show Notes: Josh Morgerman describes his initial move to LA to work in the movie industry, which didn't work out. He then started a web design company called Symblaze in the late 90s, which survived the dot-com crash by expanding to Eastern Europe and working with Russia and Eastern Bloc countries  while living in Prague. Josh shares his dual passion for weather and advertising, leading to a career as a hurricane chaser while still running Symblaze.  A Pivotal Moment in the Philippines Josh explains his obsession with violent weather and how he started hunting hurricanes in his 30s. He was also working in the corporate world, still running his company. He led two parallel existences of a brand and advertising consultant, working as a strategist and creative director in his company, and also hunting hurricanes and typhoons around the world and collecting data. He describes a pivotal moment in the Philippines where his hurricane chasing career collided with his corporate life. Josh details his experience in the Philippines during a terrifying typhoon that left thousands dead. Surrounded by desperate people in the water, he jumped in to help rescue people, and it was video and broadcast on news outlets all around the world, including CNN. He discusses how his two careers coexisted and how he eventually moved to Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, to continue both. At the Center of the Hurricane Josh explains the process of hurricane chasing, focusing on collecting data from the calm center of the storm, which, he explains, is rich in data. He describes the adrenaline rush of being inside a hurricane and how it became a professional sport for him. Josh shares his experience of chasing Melissa, a category five hurricane in Jamaica, and the challenges he faced. He discusses the importance of data collection for scientists and how it helps in post-analysis of hurricanes. Josh describes the essential items in his hurricane go-bag, emphasizing portability and durability. He explains the importance of water and protein bars for sustenance during chases. Josh details the dangerous aspects of hurricane chasing, including the violent winds and flying debris. He shares his experience of being in the eye of a hurricane and the unique calm it brings. The Storm Chasing Community Josh discusses the storm chasing community, including tornado chasers and the cultural differences between them. He describes the competitive nature of hurricane chasing and his position as the world's leading hurricane chaser. Josh mentions the growing presence of women in the storm chasing community and the Instagram community called Girls Who Chase. He explains the versatility of storm chasers, who often cover various extreme weather events for media outlets.   Hurricane Chasing Technology Josh explains the use of computer models to predict hurricane paths and intensities. He describes the process of monitoring these models every six hours to stay updated on potential storms. Josh discusses the importance of knowing which storms to chase and which to avoid, and how to prepare for potentially dangerous and unexpected crises. He shares his experience of traveling to remote locations and the logistical challenges involved. International Storm Chasing Josh describes the process of booking flights and accommodations for international storm chases. He shares his experience of adapting to unexpected situations and the importance of staying calm. Josh discusses the challenges of chasing storms in different cultures and the varying levels of police enforcement, and how he deals with these situations. He specifically mentions the stringent rules in Australia, and explains the role of his media credentials in gaining access to storm-affected areas. Media and the Hurricane Man Josh talks about his career as a paid storm chaser and his work with various media outlets. He mentions his involvement in reality series like Hurricane Man and his role as a brand ambassador for hurricane-resistant products. Josh discusses the financial aspects of his career and how it supports his storm chasing activities. He shares his experience of promoting brands like James Hardie and their hurricane-resistant products. Measuring Hurricane Behavior Josh explains the significance of measuring air pressure in the eye of a hurricane. He describes the role of his data in post-analysis by the National Hurricane Center. Josh shares his experience of chasing Melissa in Jamaica and the importance of accurate data collection. He discusses the broader impact of his data on understanding hurricane intensity and behavior. Josh reflects on his early interest in weather and how it influenced his career. He shares his experience of chasing his first hurricane, Hurricane Bob, and the primitive methods used at the time. Josh discusses the cultural experiences he's had through storm chasing and how it has broadened his perspective. Harvard Reflections  He mentions the influence of his Harvard education, particularly in Cold War foreign policy, on his current analysis of global threats. He mentions how his education introduced him to political cycles through history, and how principles learned he finds applicable today. He mentions professor Ernest May in the Department of History, who was a proponent of historical analogy and talked about the limitations of making aggressive comparisons. Josh still refers to his wisdom in his analysis of what's going on in the world. Timestamps: 03:02: The Dual Life of a Hurricane Chaser 05:16: The Science and Thrill of Hurricane Chasing 06:51: Preparation and Equipment for Hurricane Chasing  09:16: The Community and Culture of Storm Chasing  15:34: The Role of Technology in Hurricane Chasing  19:33: The Practicalities of International Storm Chasing  19:51: The Business and Media Side of Hurricane Chasing  40:35: The Importance of Data Collection in Hurricane Research  41:07: Personal Reflections and Historical Connections Links:  Social media: https://www.facebook.com/iCyclone/ https://x.com/iCyclone https://www.instagram.com/icyclone1/ https://www.youtube.com/icyclone Websites: As a stormchaser: https://www.icyclone.com/ As an ad man: https://www.symblaze.com/ This episode on The 92 Report:  Featured Non-profit: The featured non-profit of this week's is brought to you by Kristen Hunter who reports: Hi. I'm Kristen Hunter, class of 1992. The featured non-profit of this episode of The 92 report is the Goldie Initiative. The Goldie Initiative empowers women to become real estate industry leaders by providing scholarships, mentorship and professional development designed to cultivate future executives across the real estate sector. I'm honored to serve as a member of the Goldie Initiative's Boston Executive Advisory Council, supporting an organization that has transformed the professional trajectories of a number of our Harvard real estate students. You can learn more and support their mission at Goldie initiative. That's G, o, l, D, I, E, initiative.org, and now here's Will Bachman with this week's episode. This episode on The 92 Report: https://92report.com/?post_type=podcast&p=1897&preview=true *AI generated show notes and transcript

    46 min
  2. FEB 2

    158. Allain Roy, A Career in Hockey: Player, Agent, Advisor, Entrepreneur

    Show Notes: Allain Roy shares that he left Harvard to become a professional hockey player, signing his first NHL contract out of college. He recalls winning the national championship in 1989 and the team's tradition of reuniting every 10 years. Al mentions attending Coach Clear's 90th birthday celebration and running into former teammates, Tim Burke, Kevin Sneddon, Rich DeFreitas, Brian McCormack and Greg Hess, along with Chuck Hughes at Harvard games. Participating in the 1994 Olympics Al discusses turning down an offer to play in Moscow before graduation and signing with the Winnipeg Jets. He played for the Canadian national team in the 1993-1994 season, traveling the world and participating in the 1994 Olympics. Al describes his experience at the Olympics, including the silver medal loss to Sweden in a shootout. He explains his decision to move on from professional hockey after a player strike and his involvement in various businesses with his ex-father-in-law. Working for the NHL Al talks about missing the game of hockey and deciding to get back into the sport either as a front office executive or an agent. He met Dennis Polanich, an agent, during an alumni game, leading to his purchase of a small agency in 2000. Al grew the agency into RSG Hockey and became an NHL certified agent for 26 years. He explains the services his firm provides, emphasizing the importance of hockey expertise and personalized services.   The Success of the NRX Hockey Model Al details the services offered by RSG Hockey, including tax advice, estate planning, investment management, and concierge services. He discusses the NRX Hockey platform, which provides holistic solutions for athletes outside of contract negotiations and endorsements. Al explains the integration of North Rock Partners' services into the NRX Hockey platform to create a comprehensive system for athletes. He highlights the success of the NRX Hockey model and its potential to expand to other sports. Financial Challenges Faced by Professional Athletes Al addresses the financial challenges faced by professional athletes, emphasizing the importance of financial literacy and pro habits. He provides an example of an average NHL salary and the need for athletes to plan for their post-career financial stability. Al explains the role of his firm in helping athletes manage their finances, including reviewing cash flow statements and planning for retirement. He discusses the psychological and emotional challenges of retirement for athletes and the importance of planning ahead. Culture Fit and Team Work Al talks about the importance of culture fit and teamwork in his firm, moving away from a traditional compensation system to a team-based approach. He describes the growth of his agency from two employees to nearly 20 in North America, with partners in Europe. Al emphasizes the need for deep hockey knowledge among his employees to better serve clients. He highlights the benefits of a team-oriented culture, including regular team calls and constant communication. The Impact of NIL Legislation Al discusses the impact of the National Image and Likeness (NIL) legislation on college sports, turning it into a de facto professional league. He explains the challenges of the open portal system, allowing athletes to switch schools without penalties. Al also talks about pay-to-play schemes and the need for better governance of NIL deals. He describes the role of his firm in advising athletes on fair market value and potential pitfalls in NIL contracts. Addressing Stigma and Anxiety Al shares his enjoyment of returning to campus, including attending Harvard-Dartmouth games and visiting Pinocchio's pizza. He mentions his two children, both graduates of TCU, and his workaholic lifestyle, including traveling for the Olympics. Al discusses his firm's mental health initiative, addressing the stigma and anxiety faced by athletes. He emphasizes the importance of mental health conversations and support for athletes transitioning to post-career life. Harvard Reflections Al reflects on his favorite classes at Harvard, including astronomy with Dr. Latham and Dr. Gingrich, and the History of Genocide. He shares the impact of hearing personal stories from professors who lived through significant historical events, including working on The Manhattan Project, and guest speakers who worked on the first atomic bomb and saw the testing, and from a former concentration camp prisoner who testified at Nuremberg trials. Al appreciates the passion and unique experiences of his professors, which made their classes memorable. He also mentions the excitement of attending classes by notable figures like Spike Lee. Timestamps: 00:02: Journey from Harvard to Professional Hockey  01:10: Early Professional Hockey Career  04:37: Transition to Agency Work 06:41: RSG Hockey Services and NRX Hockey Platform  11:18: Financial Management for Athletes  32:20: Building a Team Culture  36:30: Impact of NIL on College Sports  40:21: Personal Reflections and Mental Health Initiatives  43:23: Memorable Harvard Classes  Links: RSG Hockey: https://rsghockey.com/ Northrock: https://www.northrock-x.com/ Featured Non-profit: The featured non-profit of this week's is brought to you by Bill Cheng who reports: "Hi. I'm Bill Cheng, class of 1992. The featured nonprofit of this episode of The 92 report is Team Rubicon. Team Rubicon is a veteran led organization that provides disaster aid all around the world. It was started in 2010 by a Marine veteran who is spurred by the devastation of the Haiti earthquake to bring a team of seven for hands-on support, and has since grown to become a major global relief organization. I first learned about it from my best friend who served in the Army and have donated annually in his honor. You can learn more about their work at Team Rubicon usa.org, and now here's Will Bachman with this week's episode." To learn more about their work, visit: TeamRubiconUSA.org.  This episode on The 92 Report: https://92report.com/?post_type=podcast&p=1893&preview=true *AI generated show notes and transcript

    48 min
  3. 12/22/2025

    157. Noah Feldman, American Legal Scholar, Academic, and Author

    Show Notes: Noah Feldman,  Harvard Law professor, author, and ethical advisor talks about his career in constitutional law and his experiences in Iraq and Tunisia, sharing stories from his time guiding, and in some cases, establishing, the law of countries in turmoil or collapse. He also talks about the themes explored in his books  and current pursuits. Real World Projects in Constitutional Law Noah describes his academic journey, starting from his early love for school and his decision to pursue academia full-time, with brief interruptions for real-world projects. He shares his experiences as a law clerk for the late Justice David Souter and his role as the senior constitutional advisor to the Coalition Provisional Authority in Iraq. Noah discusses his involvement in drafting the Iraqi constitution, starting from scratch, and the unique opportunity it provided to apply his academic knowledge in a real-world scenario. He recounts his work in Tunisia after the Arab Spring, advising the Constituent Assembly on constitutional design.  Oversight on Facebook After writing his book about James Madison, Noah's next step was unexpected involvement with Facebook's Oversight Board, which was inspired by a conversation with Sheryl Sandberg and Mark Zuckerberg. He was in California giving a talk at Stanford. He was thinking about writing a book on free speech in the era of social media. He explained to Sheryl how he had the idea that Facebook would benefit from having a kind of private Supreme Court. And the idea was that all of the companies privately made content moderation decisions could actually be made in a more public and transparent way, according to principles and the doing so would add to the legitimacy of their decision-making process. She loved the idea and introduced him to Mark Zuckerberg, and the outcome was the Oversight Board. Noah explains his ongoing work advising tech companies on governance issues and the complexities of balancing free expression and ethics in the tech industry. A Sideline in Journalism and a Focus on Writing Noah mentions his sideline in journalism, starting with a recommendation from Michael Ignatieff to write for the New York Times. He shares his experience of writing for Bloomberg's opinion section for over a decade. Noah talks about his podcast, Deep Background, which he hosted for three years, and his plans to relaunch it in a slightly different format. He discusses his current book project, The Importance of Being Human, which explores the value of human relationships in the age of AI and technology. Noah elaborates on his book project, focusing on the importance of human relationships in various aspects of life, including work, family, and politics. He expresses his open-mindedness about the potential value of romantic relationships with AI, despite initially holding a different view. Following a Theme of Constitutions When asked about his book choices, Noah explains his organizing theme of constitutions, focusing on Middle Eastern and US constitutional history. Noah outlines his planned book series on the history of the US Constitution, emphasizing the narrative throughline of the people who shaped it. He shares his experiences in Iraq, describing the chaotic and disorganized environment he encountered and the challenges of creating a functioning legal system in the midst of civil disorder. He shares the biggest lesson learned, the importance of order and law, arguing that without de facto control on the ground, it is difficult to establish a functioning legal or constitutional system. He also talks about how militias were formed. Noah discusses his work in Tunisia, highlighting the successful transition to democracy and the role of Islamist political parties in the democratic process. He reflects on the importance of norms and conventions in maintaining a functional constitutional system, using the example of Tunisia's failed Constitutional Court. Norms and Conventions in Maintaining a Constitutional System Noah emphasizes the significance of norms and conventions in the functioning of institutions, including legal systems and constitutional orders. He discusses the role of norms in the US constitutional system, using the example of the impeachment of Donald Trump to illustrate how norms can be changed by actions that challenge them. Noah reflects on the importance of understanding and respecting norms and conventions in maintaining the integrity of legal and constitutional systems. He highlights the need for clear and effective checks and balances to prevent the abuse of power and ensure the rule of law. The Importance of Family Noah shares details about his personal life, including his recent marriage to Julia Allison and his two children, Jamin and Mina, who are pursuing careers in the arts. He describes his relationship with his ex-wife, Jeannie Suk Gerson, and her husband, Jake Gerson, and how they maintain a good working relationship despite being colleagues.Noah reflects on the importance of family and personal relationships in his life, noting the support and encouragement he receives from his family.  Harvard Reflections Noah reminisces about his time at Harvard, highlighting the impact of his mentors and the courses he took. He talks about his mentorship with Robert Nozick and the influence of his work on his current thinking, medieval Islamic and Jewish Studies and his professors there Isadore Turski, Bernard Septimus, and Mohsen Madi. he also mentions Richard Primus, Constitutional Law with H.W. Perry. Noah discusses his involvement with the Program on Jewish and Israeli Law at Harvard Law School and the importance of medieval Jewish and Islamic Studies in his work. He reflects on the value of response papers in developing his skills as a journalist and opinion writer. Timestamps: 03:58: Involvement in Real-World Projects 07:52 Journalism and Media Engagement  13:07: Research and Personal Insights  23:51: Lessons from Iraq and Tunisia  37:46: Impact of Norms and Conventions  42:04: Personal Life and Family  45:08: Influences and Mentorship  Links: Website: https://www.noahfeldman.com/ Email: noah_feldman@harvard.edu @professornoahfeldman Linktree Featured Non-profit The featured non-profit of this week's episode  is brought to you by Anastasia Fernand who reports: "Hi. I'm Anastasia Fernand, class of 1992. The featured non-profit of this episode of the 1992 report is the Rebecca H. Rhodes African Inclusive Literacy Research prize. The African inclusive literacy Research Fund supports African scholars and practitioners undertaking research to identify the best ways of helping children with disabilities become literate as a critical step in reaching their full potential. Rebecca was my roommate throughout college and a member of our class of 1992 Rebecca spent her career proving that every child can learn. Let's make sure her prize keeps proving it for generations to come. And now here is Will Bachman with this week's episode." To learn more about their work, visit: https://www.adeanet.org

    51 min
  4. 12/08/2025

    156. Ted Caplow, Life at the Intersection of Society and Technology

    Show Notes Ted Caplow graduated with a degree in social science and has had a career in engineering and entrepreneurship. He describes his initial interest in science and his experience with physics at Harvard, which he found challenging. Ted shares his interest in humanities, particularly theater, and his involvement in various theater activities at Harvard. He discusses his consideration of theater conservatory programs and urban planning after graduation.  Joining the Peace Corps and Sailing across the Atlantic Ted recounts his application to the Peace Corps and the unexpected technical fields he was qualified for, which were teaching  English or beekeeping. This led him to reconsider his career path. He describes his sailing adventure across the Atlantic Ocean with his family and friends. They left shortly after graduation and the trip lasted six months. They stopped in the Azores for a couple of weeks, onto Gibraltar and Spain, through the Mediterranean. They stopped in Sardinia and stayed in Malta for a month; they sailed to Greece, the islands and Cyprus where they stopped and decided whether to continue around the world or go back to real life.  Returning to New York and the Theater Industry Ted returned and went to New York where he  joined the theater industry, working on production and starting his own theatrical company. Ted talks about his involvement in the theater industry, including producing interdisciplinary performances and meeting his first wife through a mutual friend. He describes his transition from theater to entrepreneurship. He started his own company and a non-profit theater company. This lasted a few years before Ted felt he should focus on a more technical field and he discusses the separation between creative pursuits and technical professions. Ultimately, he decided to pursue urban planning and his interest in sustainable development. A Shift to Engineering Ted shares his experience at Princeton and Columbia, where he pursued a PhD in engineering, despite initial doubts about his qualifications. He reflects on the challenges and rewards of his academic journey, including the intense environment at Princeton and the decision to pursue a master's degree instead of a PhD. He wrote his masters' thesis on solar power. Moving on from academia, Ted's next job was with a yacht designer. He then ran his friend's restaurant for two years before going back to school and earning his PhD. in engineering at Columbia in 2004. The Development of the Science Barge  Ted explains his idea to create a sustainable technology laboratory in the Bahamas, why he became interested in hydroponics, and why he didn't go to the Bahamas. He explains how the original idea evolved into the Science Barge in the Hudson River.  The Science Barge was a hydroponic greenhouse with solar panels, wind power, and aquaponics, designed to educate schoolchildren about sustainable technologies such as recycling the waste water. Ted discusses the challenges of moving the barge every two months and the decision to find a permanent home for it in Yonkers, and how this venture inspired the SunWork Center project. Sustainable Development Success Stories He highlights the success of the SunWork Center, a greenhouse on the rooftop of PS 333 in Manhattan, and the expansion of New York SunWorks to over 300 schools. Ted describes the development of Bright Farms, a commercial company that grew local produce in greenhouses on top of grocery stores. He shares the challenges and successes of Bright Farms, including partnerships with major retailers and the acquisition by Cox Enterprises. Ted reflects on the importance of sustainable design and the impact of his work on the food industry. He discusses the evolution of his design firm, Caplow Manzano, and its focus on creating durable, resilient homes that prioritize human health and environmental sustainability.  Technological Innovation in Building Ted talks about his personal journey and the diverse skills he has developed over the years. He reflects on the importance of technological innovation, the role of engineering in his work, and the difficulty of navigating and innovating around  all the components of building houses. Ted shares his plans for expanding his design firm's impact and the potential for scaling sustainable design solutions. Harvard Reflections He expresses gratitude for the opportunities and challenges that have shaped his career and looks forward to continuing his work in sustainable design and education. He mentions E.O. Wilson for Evolutionary Biology as an incredible talent and researcher in that field. He also mentions a poetry class with Seamus Heaney. He also mentions a class on China and one on Africa that he found inspiring and eye opening, and taking classes on Shakespeare from actors in the repertory theater. Timestamps: 04:26: Exploring Career Paths  15:45: Entrepreneurial Ventures and Personal Life  31:56: The Science Barge and Educational Initiatives  48:06: Commercial Ventures and Bright Farms  55:37: Personal Reflections and Future Plans  Links: Caplow Manzano: https://www.caplowmanzano.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caplow/ Featured Non-profit: The featured non-profit of this week's episode is brought to you by Kristen Hunter who reports:    "Hi, I'm Kristen Hunter, class of 1992. The featured nonprofit of this episode of The 92 Report is Habitat for Humanity, Greater Boston. Habitat for Humanity, Greater Boston works in partnership with families in need to build decent, affordable homes that strengthen communities, expanding access to home ownership for low income households, I'm proud to support the work of Habitat for Humanity, Greater Boston, whose CEO, James Costars, a longtime mentor, colleague and friend, has brought visionary leadership to their mission. You can learn more and support their work at habitatboston.org,  and now here's Will Bachman with this week's episode." To learn more about their work, visit: habitatboston.org *AI generated show notes and transcript

    1h 6m
  5. 12/01/2025

    155. Lloyd Lee, A Blessed Life and Real Estate Private Equity

    Show Notes: Lloyd opens the conversation by talking about the infinite opportunities at Harvard and encourages incoming freshmen to make the most of their time there. Lloyd shares his initial plan to study pre-med but also pursued fine arts, specifically architecture, and theater work. He mentions meeting Professor James Stilgoe at the Graduate School of Design, which opened his eyes to opportunities beyond STEM. From Cornell to New York City Lloyd discusses his decision to attend Cornell and his subsequent move to New York City. He had two job offers: working at Disney or a consulting firm, but chose the consulting firm due to financial needs. Lloyd worked for a boutique workout restructuring organization in New York City and later joined Starwood Capital Group. He was asked to open the London office for Starwood Capital Group in 2001, combining his interests in architecture, finance, and real estate. He honed his skills as an investment guy over the next few years before moving into entrepreneurship. Founding Yoo Capital In 2010, Lloyd and his business partner founded Yoo Capital, focusing on real estate private equity. The firm aimed to be responsible and institutional in their investments, creating global iconic destinations in London. Yoo Capital has invested in various sectors, including live theaters, film and television studios, music arenas, hotels, and restaurants. The firm has also created incubator spaces for startups and supports educational programs at Imperial College London and other institutions. About Yoo Capital Yoo Capital has committed to contributing 50% of all housing built in central London to government affordable housing. The firm has partnerships with major names in hospitality, food, beverage, music, and entertainment. Yoo Capital's investments are considered strategic to the national interest and socially responsible. The firm ensures accessibility in their destinations, ranging from affordable to high-end options. Professional and Personal Goals Lloyd shares his practice of journaling since 1997, mapping out his personal and professional goals. He contributes the success of his journey to education, skills learned, and opportunity to his passions professionally. He and his wife have created an ethos to build opportunities and contribute to social value that they have impressed upon their children. Lloyd discusses the importance of setting targets and reviewing progress regularly. He emphasizes the significance of maintaining a work-life balance and involving his family in the planning process, and he explains his setting targets and weekly review process.  Challenges of Brexit and COVID-19 Lloyd recounts the challenges faced during the Brexit vote and the COVID-19 pandemic. He explains the firm's strategy of being prudent and risk-averse, often forward-selling properties to secure investments. Lloyd shares a story about forward-selling and transforming a million square feet of residential property during the recession. Lloyd describes many of the exciting rejuvenation projects that invest in both the buildings and benefit the community with housing, entertainment, art, and businesses. The firm's approach has allowed them to weather economic storms and continue growing. Lloyd also mentions what he has learned from working with theatres. Harvard Reflections Lloyd credits Professors James Stilgoe and Harvey Cox as influential figures in his life. He discusses how Professor Stilgoe's course on the History of the American Built Environment broadened his perspective. Lloyd appreciates Professor Cox's course on Jesus in the world, which reinforced his Christian beliefs. Both professors' teachings have shaped Lloyd's approach to business and personal life. Guiding Beliefs at Work Lloyd explains how his Christian beliefs guide his professional decisions and the firm's ethos. He emphasizes the importance of humility and collaboration with world-class partners. Lloyd shares how the firm's investments are rooted in creating socially responsible and accessible destinations. He highlights the significance of maintaining a moral fiber in all business dealings. Lloyd discusses the firm's future plans, including expanding their investments in central London. He mentions ongoing projects like the Camden Film Quarter and the transformation of Olympia. The firm aims to continue creating iconic destinations that are both financially successful and socially responsible. Lloyd expresses his gratitude for the opportunities and challenges that have shaped his journey. Timestamps: 04:22: Transition from Harvard to Early Career  08:53: Social Responsibility and Strategic Partnerships  12:15: Personal and Professional Growth  21:54: The Weekly Review Process 24:22: Founding Yoo Capital 32:19: Understanding the Theatre Business  43:06: Influence of Harvard Professors  Links: Yoo Capital: https://yoocapital.com/ Olympia: https://www.olympia.co.uk/ Camden Film Quarter: https://www.camdenfilmquarter.com/       Featured Non-profit:   The featured non-profit of this week's episode is brought to you by Elijah Aron who reports:  "Hi. I'm Elijah Aron, class of 1992. The featured non-profit of this episode of The 92 report is Earth Justice. Basically, it's an organization of lawyers who protect the planet. I like to give money to environmental causes, but I don't always understand what a lot of these big green nonprofits are actually doing with my money. But Earth justice, I totally understand. They fight court cases against corporations and sometimes the federal government on the side of the earth. You can learn more about their work@earthjustice.org Now here is Will Bachman with this week's episode. To learn more about their work, visit: www.earthjustice.org.    *Show notes and transcript are AI generated.

    49 min
  6. 11/24/2025

    154. Trisha Pérez Kennealy, Culinary Arts & Community Building

    Show Notes: Trisha Pérez Kennealy describes her initial stint in New York in commercial banking, followed by investment banking and studying to become a chef at Le Cordon Bleu in London, where she lived for three years. She moved back to the United States, settling in Lexington. She has three children and while they were little, she was active in town meetings, became a town official,  and advocated for public education.  In 2010, Trisha bought a property near the Battle Green in Lexington and converted it into a luxury hotel with 22 guest rooms and a restaurant. It opened in 2014 and has since received four stars from Forbes and earned Michelin Keys status. Trisha still runs the inn today.  An Entrepreneurial Spirit Trisha shares that she always knew she would be an entrepreneur, influenced by her Puerto Rican heritage and her father's business. She ran the dance and theater program for Cambridge City School kids during her undergrad years, which was an entrepreneurial endeavor. Trisha admired successful businesspeople who transitioned to public service and felt that her banking experience would be an asset to any entrepreneurial venture. She talks about how her background and family influenced  her love of cooking. She emphasizes the importance of cooking and is a firm believer that food is medicine. She also emphasizes the importance of "breaking bread" as a strong element of building a successful and supportive community. Creative Pursuits and Community Building in the Kitchen Trisha talks about how her background and family influenced  her love of cooking. She emphasizes the importance of cooking and is a firm believer that food is medicine. She also emphasizes the importance of "breaking bread" as a strong element of building a successful and supportive community. Her passion for cooking, developed from a young age, led her to pursue professional chef training at Le Cordon Bleu. Trisha explains that her training at Le Cordon Bleu was technical and applicable to various culinary traditions, not just French cuisine. She talks about finding the best ingredients and how to do as little as possible to the ingredients, and the importance of technique. She explains how she is influenced by her passion for agriculture and local products.  Running a Luxury Inn Trisha describes the Inn at Hastings Park, highlighting its focus on American design aesthetic and high-touch service and the lengths she went to in the design and decor. The restaurant menu is developed with a focus on New England cuisine and offers a well-curated dessert menu. Trisha describes featured items on the menu and discusses the challenges of running a small luxury inn, including the tech-intensive nature of the business and the importance of data management. She emphasizes the value of hiring well-trained staff and being willing to learn and get hands-on with various tasks. Trisha mentions she was surprised to find that it's easier to run a larger property due to fixed costs, but smaller properties offer more personalized service. She highlights the importance of personalization and making guests feel seen and valued, and explains how they have supported long-stay guests during challenging times like medical treatments or family emergencies.  Accolades for the Inn Trisha talks about the impact of receiving a Michelin Key, which brought significant press coverage and increased visibility. She shares her passion for teaching people how to cook through social media, which has led to meaningful interactions with her followers. Trisha describes the importance of making cooking approachable and encouraging people to experiment with recipes. She mentions the success of her social media content, including videos and reels, which have reached a wide audience. The Value of Serving in Public Office Trisha reflects on her role as the Senior Class Gift Chair, which fostered lifelong friendships and a deep commitment to giving back to Harvard. She discusses her involvement in various alumni activities, including serving on the Dean's Advisory Council for the Radcliffe Institute. Trisha shares her experience as a representative for town meetings in Lexington, where she worked on appropriations for the municipality and schools including, zoning policy, and capital expenditures. She emphasizes the importance of civic engagement and the value of serving in public office to bring new perspectives and ideas.  Historical Preservation and Community Engagement Trisha highlights her work on the town's Tourism Committee, which led to the construction of a new visitor center in Lexington. She describes the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution, which was celebrated with significant events and community involvement. Trisha shares her pride in preserving the tradition of hospitality in Lexington through the Inn at Hastings Park. She reflects on the importance of historical preservation and community engagement in her work. Harvard Reflections Trisha discusses the impact of the Constitutional Law course with HW Perry, which taught her to explore both sides of an argument and think rigorously. She mentions her admiration for Michael Sandel, who encouraged critical thinking and the exploration of ethical questions. Trisha emphasizes the importance of learning how to think and express opinions at Harvard, which has been valuable in her professional and personal life. She reflects on the broader impact of her Harvard education, which fostered a lifelong commitment to learning and service. Timestamps: 02:46: Entrepreneurial Spirit and Early Influences  09:24: Transition from Banking to Culinary Arts  18:00: Challenges and Lessons in Running a Luxury Inn 25:48: Impact of Michelin Key and Social Media Engagement  29:29: Role as Senior Class Gift Chair and Town Meeting Member  36:05: Significant Projects and Achievements 39:17: Influence of Harvard Courses and Professors Links: Trisha's Instagram: @trishaperezkennealy LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trishaperezkennealy/ The Inn at Hastings Park: https://www.innathastingspark.com/ Town Meeting Bistro: https://www.innathastingspark.com/dine/town-meeting-bistro/ Hotel Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/innhastingspark/ Featured Non-profit: This week's featured non-profit is brought to you by Somava Saha who reports: " Hi. I'm Somava Saha, class of 1992. The featured nonprofit of this episode of The 92 Report is Well being and Equity in the World, or We in the World. We in the World works to create a more just and abundant future for everybody by unleashing the power and possibility of communities experiencing poverty over the last five years. As founder and CEO, I've gotten to watch over 11,572 jobs created in communities that are experiencing the greatest harm, and watched as those leaders then went on to restore 195,000 years of life for birthdays in those communities, supported a million and a half of their neighbors to be safe and well in the pandemic and restored that at a 30 to one return in investment, far better than would have been possible had somebody else come in to rescue them. In this time that work is needed more than ever. Please come and learn more about us at Well being and Equity in the World or We in the World. That's W, E, I N, T, H, E, W, O, R, L, d.org, and now here's Will Bachman with this week's episode.  To learn more about their work, visit: https://weintheworld.org/   *Show notes and transcript are AI generated.

    44 min
  7. 11/17/2025

    153. Rana Dershowitz, A Career Driven by Passion from Sports Law and Public Policy

    Rana Dershowitz went straight to Harvard Law School after graduating in 1992, partly due to the economy and her love for learning. She describes her experience at Harvard Law School, including her role as a law school "old timer" in Cambridge. After law school, Rana moved back to New York and started working on Wall Street, initially hating the big law environment but appreciating the people she worked with. Entertainment Law at Madison Square Garden and onto Sports Law Rana discusses her career counselor's advice to explore sports law, which she had overlooked despite her involvement in sports and technical theater at Harvard. She took a six-month leave of absence and was offered a job in sports law the day she started her leave. Rana worked in entertainment law at Madison Square Garden (MSG) from 2001 to 2007, handling legal work for the Knicks, Rangers, and the WNBA's New York Liberty. She met her future husband during this time and moved to Colorado  in 2007, where she continued her legal career. Joining the US Olympic Committee and Life in Colorado  Rana joined the US Olympic Committee (USOC) as Deputy General Counsel in 2007, becoming interim General Counsel and then General Counsel and Head of Government Affairs. She describes the challenges of commuting between Colorado Springs and Denver, with her husband working in Bould, while managing her job and family life. Rana and her husband moved to Basalt, Colorado, in 2011, where she continued her legal work,  joined the Aspen skiing company, and became involved in the Aspen community. She transitioned to a part-time role at Aspen Skiing Company while working as Phil Weiser's policy director for his gubernatorial campaign. Challenges and Opportunities at the US Olympic Committee  Rana explains the unique structure of the USOC, which is federally chartered and subject to congressional oversight, unlike most Olympic committees. She discusses the complexities of funding and intellectual property rights, including the USOC's unique trademark rights. Rana highlights her work on safe sport initiatives and the challenges of managing independent national governing bodies for various sports. She reflects on the legal and operational complexities of hosting Olympic Games in the United States and the international dynamics involved. Working at Madison Square Garden and New York Liberty Rana shares a story that reflects her personal connection to Madison Square Garden. She describes the structure of MSG, which owns the building, the Knicks, the Rangers, and the Liberty, and her role in handling sponsorships and league rules. Rana recounts her involvement in the New York Liberty's WNBA finals run in 1999, feeling proud to be part of the team's success. She also discusses her role in managing entertainment acts during team sports events at MSG and shares a few of her proudest moments. Policy Work and Campaign for Phil Weiser  Rana explains her role as Phil Weiser's policy director, focusing on active listening and building a grassroots campaign across Colorado. She outlines key issues the campaign is addressing, including affordability, climate change, water resources, and public lands. Rana emphasizes the importance of bridging urban-rural divides and finding innovative solutions that benefit the entire state. She highlights the campaign's efforts to address youth mental health and promote outdoor activities for children. Rana's Broader Role at Aspen Skiing Company  Rana discusses her expanded role at Aspen Skiing Company, overseeing sustainability, community engagement, planning and development, and PR. She describes her transition to leading mountain operations and her current role that spans looking into employee housing and childcare. Rana reflects on the importance of understanding systems and structures beyond legal work, drawing on her experiences at Aspen.  Harvard Reflections Rana shares her initial reluctance to follow in her family's legal footsteps but eventually being drawn to law by her interest in the "Justice" class. She credits the course for shifting her perspective and leading her to law school. She also mentions auditing the "Thinking about Thinking" class taught by Stephen Jay Gould, Robert Nozick, and Alan Dershowitz, and reflects on the importance of considering different perspectives in policy work and legal decision-making. Timestamps: 02:26: Transition to Sports Law and Madison Square Garden  05:23: Joining the US Olympic Committee and Family Life in Colorado  13:15: Challenges and Opportunities at the US Olympic Committee  20:38: Experiences at Madison Square Garden and New York Liberty  31:34: Policy Work and Campaign for Phil Weiser  40:33: Rana's Broader Role at Aspen Skiing Company  44:24: Reflections on Harvard  Links: LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/rana-dershowitz/ Phil Weiser for Colorado: https://philforcolorado.com/ Aspen One: https://aspen.com/  USOPC: https://www.usopc.org/ Madison Square Gardens: https://www.msg.com/madison-square-garden   Featured Non-profit: The featured non-profit of this week's episode is brought to you by Peter Kang who reports: "Hi. This is Peter Kang from the class of 1992. The featured nonprofit of this episode is the Greg Marzolf Jr. Muscular Dystrophy Center at the University of Minnesota. We provide cutting edge research and clinical care for children and adults with muscular dystrophy and other neuromuscular disorders. I have been the director of this center since 21 and it has been a privilege to see all the good work that we do to find out more. Please go to M, E, d.umn.edu/md center, or email me at p, k, a, n, g@umn.edu, thanks very much. And enjoy today's podcast."  To learn more about their work, visit: https://med.umn.edu/mdcenter   *AI generated show notes and transcript.

    45 min
  8. 11/10/2025

    152. Eugene Kim, Pediatric Surgeon and Wine Connoisseur

    Show Notes: Eugene Kim shares his post-graduation journey staying in Boston to finish research at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute which was part of his thesis and also laid down the groundwork for his own cancer research which he has conducted over the years. He credits his understanding of science to his time at Harvard.  He also worked at the now-closed Love the Border Cafe. Eugene reflects on the valuable lessons learned from working at the cafe and describes the unique subculture of the cafe's staff, including the Brazilian kitchen staff and the diverse backgrounds of the waiters and waitresses. Securing a Position in Research Eugene talks about his major in biochemical sciences and his interest in molecular biology. He describes how he got involved in research at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, working with a researcher named Sam Speck. Eugene details the hands-on experience he gained, including growing bacteria, running gels, and learning the importance of meticulous work, and shares memorable experiences of working there, including  biking through snow to continue his research during a Thanksgiving blizzard. Enrolling in Columbia Medical School Eugene discusses his decision to attend Columbia Medical School in New York City, influenced by his desire to learn in a bustling city and study at a school that was his top choice. Eugene talks about his four years in medical school, his  general surgical training, and working in a cancer research laboratory and developing an interest in pediatric cancer. Eugene recounts his experience during 9/11, including the hospital's response and his involvement in helping first responders at Ground Zero. He reflects on the impact of 9/11 on the New York City community and the long-term health effects on residents. A Focus on Pediatric Surgery Eugene explains his transition from adult surgery to pediatric surgery, driven by his desire to help children. He describes his training at Cincinnati Children's Hospital and the competitive nature of obtaining a spot in pediatric surgery training. Eugene shares his experience in Houston, Texas, and the importance of mentorship in his career. He discusses the challenges and rewards of being a pediatric surgeon, including the need to specialize in various areas of surgery. Eugene emphasizes the importance of mentorship in his career and his efforts to mentor young surgeons and researchers. He describes the physical and mental demands of long surgeries and the importance of staying physically fit. Eugene discusses the impact of new technologies on pediatric surgery, such as robotic surgery and advanced imaging techniques. He reflects on the importance of remaining open-minded to new technologies and incorporating them into his practice.  Harvard Reflections Eugene reflects on his time at Harvard, including his interest in art history and Japanese art and history taught by John Rosenfield. He shares his appreciation for the seminar course with Mark Ptashne, which deepened his interest in molecular biology. He also mentions an Introduction to Architecture course with James Ackerman.  Eugene discusses the importance of taking courses outside of his major and the impact of these courses on his career. He reflects on the value of the requirements at Harvard and how they broadened his perspective and knowledge. A Journey into Wine Eugene shares his interest in wine, including his extensive collection and the impact of the Palisades fire on his collection. He describes his journey into wine, including learning about different regions and types of wine. Eugene recounts a memorable experience of tasting rare wines with the head red wine maker from Penfolds in Australia. He reflects on the importance of balancing professional and personal interests and the joy of sharing his passion for wine with others. Timestamps: 04:44: Early Research Experience at Harvard 08:13: Medical School and Early Career  18:46: Transition to Pediatric Surgery  40:09: Mentorship and Professional Development 44:03: Personal Interests and Hobbies  51:03: Reflections on Harvard and Beyond  Links: Hospital website: https://researchers.cedars-sinai.edu/Eugene.KimX/about Twitter / X: https://x.com/dreskim LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eugenekim3/

    48 min
5
out of 5
24 Ratings

About

Conversations with the Harvard and Radcliffe Class of 1992, hosted by Will Bachman '92. Every member of the class has a story to tell, and the goal is to interview every one of them. There are 1,600 members of the class, so at a rate of one episode per week, this project will take 30 years. Register for email updates at 92report.com