<![CDATA[Harvard College Class of 2000: The Podcast]]>1e23cafc-c2c9-5059-b8d1-37e3ce94bf58Thu, 02 Apr 2026 16:00:04 +0000Captivate.fmHarvard College Class of 2000https://artwork.captivate.fm/1b58600d-3522-479e-8ce0-1e1d07ad7ecf/VPRqImUFC8w9OeHkIDhYE-v6.pngHarvard College Class of 2000: The PodcastHarvard College Class of 2000Harvard College Class of 2000Join us as we talk to classmates and hear what they've been up to the past 25+ years and reminisce about our time at Harvard. https://2fvxcfxgkyainedhwlth6o.captivate.fmfalseepisodicnopodcastHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Yayoi ShionoiriHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Yayoi ShionoiriDara talks to Yaoi Shionoiri, who is an art lawyer- a career we have not yet seen on the podcast! Yayoi has worked for a museum, art company, artists’ estates, and is now at Powerhouse Arts in Brooklyn (go visit her!). Yayoi reminisced about serving coffee in the Greenhouse Cafe and dining at the Signet. Yayoi lived in Hollis and Winthrop or Throp as she calls it. Yayoi was a Government concentrator. She is from Toronto and now lives in New York City. Follow Yayoi and her creative and law endeavors on Instagram or her website.

]]>Dara talks to Yaoi Shionoiri, who is an art lawyer- a career we have not yet seen on the podcast! Yayoi has worked for a museum, art company, artists’ estates, and is now at Powerhouse Arts in Brooklyn (go visit her!). Yayoi reminisced about serving coffee in the Greenhouse Cafe and dining at the Signet. Yayoi lived in Hollis and Winthrop or Throp as she calls it. Yayoi was a Government concentrator. She is from Toronto and now lives in New York City. Follow Yayoi and her creative and law endeavors on Instagram or her website.

]]>2603a377-59c0-445d-8fea-0ee7ffd6814eThu, 02 Apr 2026 09:00:00 -070046:29falsefull7272Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Mary Ann Cockerill WalterHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Mary Ann Cockerill WalterEileen talks to linguist Mary Ann (Cockerill) Walter about her love of languages, living and teaching in 10 different countries (she’s currently at the University of the Virgin Islands!) and discovering Arabic and linguistics at Harvard. She also gives us a linguist’s take on the recent Percival Everett novel, James, and offers some additional fiction recommendations. Mary Ann also shares her personal connection to the nonprofit ENOUGH! Plays to End Gun Violence, founded in response to the mass shooting at Robb Elementary, the school she attended in her hometown of Uvalde, Texas. The organization teaches highschoolers all over the U.S. to write and stage their own plays about this urgent national issue. At Harvard, Mary Ann lived in Thayer and Eliot for one year before moving off campus. She concentrated in Linguistics and Near Eastern Languages and Civilizations.

Links: ENOUGH! Plays to End Gun Violence https://www.enoughplays.com/

Mary Ann’s website, full of fun content about language: https://sites.google.com/view/maryannwalter/home

Mary Ann’s article about James by Percival Everett https://drive.google.com/file/d/15CwkOqlY0rvAzlxkX4PTr-goTN-TD5QS/view

The Mars House by Natasha Pulley https://www.bloomsbury.com/us/mars-house-9781639732333/

Author KJ Charles, writer of queer historical romance and fantasy https://kjcharleswriter.com

]]>Eileen talks to linguist Mary Ann (Cockerill) Walter about her love of languages, living and teaching in 10 different countries (she’s currently at the University of the Virgin Islands!) and discovering Arabic and linguistics at Harvard. She also gives us a linguist’s take on the recent Percival Everett novel, James, and offers some additional fiction recommendations. Mary Ann also shares her personal connection to the nonprofit ENOUGH! Plays to End Gun Violence, founded in response to the mass shooting at Robb Elementary, the school she attended in her hometown of Uvalde, Texas. The organization teaches highschoolers all over the U.S. to write and stage their own plays about this urgent national issue. At Harvard, Mary Ann lived in Thayer and Eliot for one year before moving off campus. She concentrated in Linguistics and Near Eastern Languages and Civilizations.

Links: ENOUGH! Plays to End Gun Violence https://www.enoughplays.com/

Mary Ann’s website, full of fun content about language: https://sites.google.com/view/maryannwalter/home

Mary Ann’s article about James by Percival Everett https://drive.google.com/file/d/15CwkOqlY0rvAzlxkX4PTr-goTN-TD5QS/view

The Mars House by Natasha Pulley https://www.bloomsbury.com/us/mars-house-9781639732333/

Author KJ Charles, writer of queer historical romance and fantasy https://kjcharleswriter.com

]]>2379fca2-c05f-4d30-ab76-e985558ed2ffThu, 26 Mar 2026 09:00:00 -070024:31falsefull7171Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Anna Malsberger LaurentHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Anna Malsberger LaurentDara talks to Jonathan Dawid about his late fiancee Anna Laurent, known as Anna Malsberger in college. Anna worked in graphic design and documentary film after college and studying at Mass College of Art. Anna’s love of running led her to discover the abundance and beauty of plants and seeds in Los Angeles- which she wrote about and later photographed. Anna moved to London where she had many exhibits and has won multiple awards. Anna’s work, discussed in the podcast, at a Kensington hotel entitled Solastalgia Flora: Exploration to Extinction is featured here. You can see Anna’s multiple works and her book on her gorgeous website: https://www.annalaurent.com/. Learn more about Anna through this Crimson article.

Anna lived in Leverett and concentrated in History and Literature. Anna is originally from Boston and was living in England and France. Anna died of cancer on February 1, 2024 in France.

]]>Dara talks to Jonathan Dawid about his late fiancee Anna Laurent, known as Anna Malsberger in college. Anna worked in graphic design and documentary film after college and studying at Mass College of Art. Anna’s love of running led her to discover the abundance and beauty of plants and seeds in Los Angeles- which she wrote about and later photographed. Anna moved to London where she had many exhibits and has won multiple awards. Anna’s work, discussed in the podcast, at a Kensington hotel entitled Solastalgia Flora: Exploration to Extinction is featured here. You can see Anna’s multiple works and her book on her gorgeous website: https://www.annalaurent.com/. Learn more about Anna through this Crimson article.

Anna lived in Leverett and concentrated in History and Literature. Anna is originally from Boston and was living in England and France. Anna died of cancer on February 1, 2024 in France.

]]>fd3613bf-cfd0-4c90-8e1a-c2cc4d4b977eThu, 19 Mar 2026 09:00:00 -070042:27falsefull7070Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Andrea Volfova FilipiHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Andrea Volfova FilipiDara talks to Andrea about “life being extraordinary” and “mulling over grand plans for the future.” Andrea discusses moving to the United States to attend Harvard, soon after the end of the cold war. She has always been interested in foreign affairs and dreamed of working at the United Nations (spoiler alert- she did!). After college, she went to the London School of Economics to study Development and then returned to Prague for her dream job at an NGO. An ad in The Economist changed her life- sending her into a career at the UN where she’s been for the past 20 years on and off, at both UN headquarters and many countries in Africa. Writing for Let’s Go was life-changing for Andrea, allowing her to see what war does to a country. Andrea also opens up about her health challenges related to a congenital heart issue.

Andrea lived in Mather House and concentrated in Psychology. She is originally from Prague and now lives in Western Sahara.

]]>Dara talks to Andrea about “life being extraordinary” and “mulling over grand plans for the future.” Andrea discusses moving to the United States to attend Harvard, soon after the end of the cold war. She has always been interested in foreign affairs and dreamed of working at the United Nations (spoiler alert- she did!). After college, she went to the London School of Economics to study Development and then returned to Prague for her dream job at an NGO. An ad in The Economist changed her life- sending her into a career at the UN where she’s been for the past 20 years on and off, at both UN headquarters and many countries in Africa. Writing for Let’s Go was life-changing for Andrea, allowing her to see what war does to a country. Andrea also opens up about her health challenges related to a congenital heart issue.

Andrea lived in Mather House and concentrated in Psychology. She is originally from Prague and now lives in Western Sahara.

]]>27555e05-d872-4ddf-939e-d96a7057c0d0Thu, 12 Mar 2026 09:00:00 -070001:01:55falsefull6969Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Melina McTigue GarlandHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Melina McTigue GarlandEileen talks to the thoughtful, hilarious Melina McTigue Garland about moving back to her hometown of Worcester, MA, her love of music and of words, and starting a flute ensemble, ringing the bells in Lowell Tower and gazing at the rings of Saturn at Harvard. Melina also shares her experience of being diagnosed with ADHD at age 44, finding magic in the everyday, and her life-affirming experience at our 25th reunion. Melina works as an attorney, lived in Matthews and Leverett, and concentrated in English…“but really majored in Band and minored in vodka.”

]]>Eileen talks to the thoughtful, hilarious Melina McTigue Garland about moving back to her hometown of Worcester, MA, her love of music and of words, and starting a flute ensemble, ringing the bells in Lowell Tower and gazing at the rings of Saturn at Harvard. Melina also shares her experience of being diagnosed with ADHD at age 44, finding magic in the everyday, and her life-affirming experience at our 25th reunion. Melina works as an attorney, lived in Matthews and Leverett, and concentrated in English…“but really majored in Band and minored in vodka.”

]]>252cb04d-e43b-466b-bb5b-bf4fc6edca03Thu, 05 Mar 2026 09:00:00 -070048:49falsefull6868Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Cori RacelaHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Cori RacelaCori talks about working at multiple jobs (including Putney Student Travel- which she hooked Dara up with a job in Alaska!) before going to law school and becoming a health lawyer in California. Cori is now the Executive Director of the Western Center on Law & Poverty and an avid surfer.

Cori lived in Thayer and Dunster House. She was a History & Literature of Latin America concentrator. She is from Southern California and lives in Los Angeles.

]]>Cori talks about working at multiple jobs (including Putney Student Travel- which she hooked Dara up with a job in Alaska!) before going to law school and becoming a health lawyer in California. Cori is now the Executive Director of the Western Center on Law & Poverty and an avid surfer.

Cori lived in Thayer and Dunster House. She was a History & Literature of Latin America concentrator. She is from Southern California and lives in Los Angeles.

]]>53d0b6a5-7d20-4b56-8fcd-3df97fe49412Thu, 26 Feb 2026 09:00:00 -070041:01falsefull6767Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Ming Hsu ChenHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Ming Hsu ChenMing Hsu Chen talks about her goal to become the first Asian American Thurgood Marshall, but pivoted to create a career with her main interests: ethnicity, religion and faith, law, civil rights, and immigration. Ming is a Professor at the University of California Law School and runs the Center for Race, Immigration, Citizenship, and Equality (RICE). Ming also recently co-hosted the Harvard Asian American Alumni Alliance's (H4A) first west coast summit last October.

Check out Ming’s books and her TEDx talk:

  1. Sacred Places, Civic Purposes: Should Government Help Faith-Based Charity?
  2. Pursuing Citizenship in the Enforcement Era
  3. TEDx Talk

Ming lived in Holworthy and Lowell House. She was a joint social studies and religion concentrator. She is originally from Boston and Southern California and lives in the SF Bay Area.

]]>Ming Hsu Chen talks about her goal to become the first Asian American Thurgood Marshall, but pivoted to create a career with her main interests: ethnicity, religion and faith, law, civil rights, and immigration. Ming is a Professor at the University of California Law School and runs the Center for Race, Immigration, Citizenship, and Equality (RICE). Ming also recently co-hosted the Harvard Asian American Alumni Alliance's (H4A) first west coast summit last October.

Check out Ming’s books and her TEDx talk:

  1. Sacred Places, Civic Purposes: Should Government Help Faith-Based Charity?
  2. Pursuing Citizenship in the Enforcement Era
  3. TEDx Talk

Ming lived in Holworthy and Lowell House. She was a joint social studies and religion concentrator. She is originally from Boston and Southern California and lives in the SF Bay Area.

]]>54747262-461d-47d2-b781-64af8b9423b5Thu, 19 Feb 2026 09:00:00 -070051:44falsefull6666Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Nathaniel EkmanHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Nathaniel EkmanToday, Eileen interviews Nathaniel Ekman, one of The Paths We’ve Traveled speakers at reunion. Nathaniel opens up about his mental health struggles while at Harvard, being diagnosed with bipolar disorder at age 21, and living an authentic, hope-filled life ever since. He talks about his work with the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), reflects on lessons from his “dark days and brighter ones,” including the gift of empathy, and speaks about how mental health care in the U.S. has changed since we were in college—and how it can still improve. He also shares his advice for discovering, as he did, “the beauty in the beast” we might meet along life’s way.

At Harvard, Nathaniel lived in Weld Hall and Lowell House, and did a special concentration in Urban Studies.

]]>Today, Eileen interviews Nathaniel Ekman, one of The Paths We’ve Traveled speakers at reunion. Nathaniel opens up about his mental health struggles while at Harvard, being diagnosed with bipolar disorder at age 21, and living an authentic, hope-filled life ever since. He talks about his work with the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), reflects on lessons from his “dark days and brighter ones,” including the gift of empathy, and speaks about how mental health care in the U.S. has changed since we were in college—and how it can still improve. He also shares his advice for discovering, as he did, “the beauty in the beast” we might meet along life’s way.

At Harvard, Nathaniel lived in Weld Hall and Lowell House, and did a special concentration in Urban Studies.

]]>84470ebe-ca99-4a98-89c1-6ceb1f6b4908Thu, 12 Feb 2026 09:00:00 -070042:33falsefull6565Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Kyle ClaytonHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Kyle ClaytonKyle talks about pivoting from pre-med to technology, with an interesting role in technology at City Harvest, a food rescue organization in NYC (after a cool stint using ad tech for important issues). He’s a chess aficionado (and played outside of of ABP), a former PTA leader, a black belt in karate, and does crosswords regularly.

Kyle lived in Weld and Mather and was a Biochemistry concentrator. He is from Southern California and lives in New York City.

]]>Kyle talks about pivoting from pre-med to technology, with an interesting role in technology at City Harvest, a food rescue organization in NYC (after a cool stint using ad tech for important issues). He’s a chess aficionado (and played outside of of ABP), a former PTA leader, a black belt in karate, and does crosswords regularly.

Kyle lived in Weld and Mather and was a Biochemistry concentrator. He is from Southern California and lives in New York City.

]]>2cefa572-d740-4da4-8fdf-8d12c424d581Thu, 05 Feb 2026 09:00:00 -070056:40falsefull6464Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Kim McManama O'BrienHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Kim McManama O'BrienCongrats to Kim on her new book, Mentality Wins, that came out this week! Kim has a couple of irons in the fire- in addition to being an author, she runs a group mental health practice, Unlimited Resilience, for athletes, by athletes AND created Athletes Better Together, a peer mentoring program for teen athletes.

You would not be surprised that she herself was an athlete- hockey was a huge part of her life at Harvard.

Kim lived in Weld and Leverett and concentrated in Economics. She is from Westwood, MA and now lives in Walpole, MA.

]]>Congrats to Kim on her new book, Mentality Wins, that came out this week! Kim has a couple of irons in the fire- in addition to being an author, she runs a group mental health practice, Unlimited Resilience, for athletes, by athletes AND created Athletes Better Together, a peer mentoring program for teen athletes.

You would not be surprised that she herself was an athlete- hockey was a huge part of her life at Harvard.

Kim lived in Weld and Leverett and concentrated in Economics. She is from Westwood, MA and now lives in Walpole, MA.

]]>3f0b3171-a9fc-49f8-899f-5ebea32c0467Thu, 29 Jan 2026 09:00:00 -070032:48falsefull6363Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Judith DanovitchHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Judith DanovitchJudith talks about how shopping period changed her career trajectory to stay in school forever and become a psychology professor at the University of Louisville. Judith’s research in child development and information sources, with a current focus on technology. Judith went to Marjorie Stoneman Douglas High School and quickly helped mobilize alumni after the mass shooting there.

See Judith in the famous psychology video, read Judith’s op-eds, and the KID lab.

Judith was in Canaday A and Dunster House. She concentrated in psychology and is originally from Coral Springs, Florida and now lives in Kentucky.

]]>Judith talks about how shopping period changed her career trajectory to stay in school forever and become a psychology professor at the University of Louisville. Judith’s research in child development and information sources, with a current focus on technology. Judith went to Marjorie Stoneman Douglas High School and quickly helped mobilize alumni after the mass shooting there.

See Judith in the famous psychology video, read Judith’s op-eds, and the KID lab.

Judith was in Canaday A and Dunster House. She concentrated in psychology and is originally from Coral Springs, Florida and now lives in Kentucky.

]]>165c4a23-7b93-4263-84f9-3fdc6a31438dWed, 21 Jan 2026 09:00:00 -070050:57falsefull6262Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Jeannie Lang Rosenthal & Brian RosenthalHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Jeannie Lang Rosenthal & Brian RosenthalToday we have another couple interview! From their meetcute early freshman year, to their years abroad, in California, and now back in Jeannie’s hometown, Brian and Jeannie have had quite a ride together. Jeannie started Let’s Get Ready with a few Harvard classmates sophomore year, and Brian has pursued a number of passions, including starting his own company and working at Facebook, all the while, they’ve been each other’s number one supporters.

Jeannie lived in Straus and Lowell and concentrated in History.

Brian lived in Lionel and PfoHo and concentrated in Computer Science (dual degree Masters).

]]>Today we have another couple interview! From their meetcute early freshman year, to their years abroad, in California, and now back in Jeannie’s hometown, Brian and Jeannie have had quite a ride together. Jeannie started Let’s Get Ready with a few Harvard classmates sophomore year, and Brian has pursued a number of passions, including starting his own company and working at Facebook, all the while, they’ve been each other’s number one supporters.

Jeannie lived in Straus and Lowell and concentrated in History.

Brian lived in Lionel and PfoHo and concentrated in Computer Science (dual degree Masters).

]]>a6acdef1-3d48-431e-9f57-613810a56d1bThu, 15 Jan 2026 09:00:00 -070056:18falsefull6161Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Megan HenryHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Megan HenryMegan talks about how she discovered nutritional anthropology, worked at WIC (Women, Infants, and Children), and ended up doing a PhD in international health at Johns Hopkins, raising her three kids, and working in sodium reduction programs around the world. She is now a scientist at Johns Hopkins School of Public Health living a bicoastal life.

Megan Henry lived in Wigglesworth and Eliot House. She concentrated in Biological Anthropology and is from Olympia, Washington.

]]>Megan talks about how she discovered nutritional anthropology, worked at WIC (Women, Infants, and Children), and ended up doing a PhD in international health at Johns Hopkins, raising her three kids, and working in sodium reduction programs around the world. She is now a scientist at Johns Hopkins School of Public Health living a bicoastal life.

Megan Henry lived in Wigglesworth and Eliot House. She concentrated in Biological Anthropology and is from Olympia, Washington.

]]>17798018-9091-4ab4-80ae-3756133be1a9Thu, 08 Jan 2026 09:00:00 -070046:52falsefull6060Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Jasmin SethiHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Jasmin SethiToday, Eileen talks to entrepreneur Jasmin Sethi, CEO of Sethi Clarity Advisers. Jasmin works with clients to improve efficiency in compliance using AI, identify opportunities in regulated sectors such as retirement plan access, and align business strategies with evolving government and philanthropic policy goals – in particular to broaden access to retirement plans for underserved communities. Jasmin also shares how she had to get creative and advocate for herself to navigate the challenges of being a blind person studying applied math and economics as an undergrad. And she shares her post-graduation life lessons about having fun, knowing when to change the rules, and the power of partnership to make meaningful change happen. Jasmin lived in Thayer Hall and Adams House and went on to earn a dual JD-PhD in economics at Harvard.

]]>Today, Eileen talks to entrepreneur Jasmin Sethi, CEO of Sethi Clarity Advisers. Jasmin works with clients to improve efficiency in compliance using AI, identify opportunities in regulated sectors such as retirement plan access, and align business strategies with evolving government and philanthropic policy goals – in particular to broaden access to retirement plans for underserved communities. Jasmin also shares how she had to get creative and advocate for herself to navigate the challenges of being a blind person studying applied math and economics as an undergrad. And she shares her post-graduation life lessons about having fun, knowing when to change the rules, and the power of partnership to make meaningful change happen. Jasmin lived in Thayer Hall and Adams House and went on to earn a dual JD-PhD in economics at Harvard.

]]>1620ffc3-0074-4d0f-818c-f12917a8d0c7Thu, 01 Jan 2026 09:00:00 -070032:18falsefull5959Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Nick WeissHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Nick WeissNick’s story is a unique one, starting with taking time off of school for a year which led to a new path, allowing him to think about what he wanted to do versus staying on the path set out for him.

Nick’s new path included writing and directing films, including Drunk Wedding, and now running The McCollum Writing School (check it out for your kids-they work remotely).

Nick is from Pennsylvania and lived in Thayer and Kirkland. He concentrated in a special concentration- Media Arts.

]]>Nick’s story is a unique one, starting with taking time off of school for a year which led to a new path, allowing him to think about what he wanted to do versus staying on the path set out for him.

Nick’s new path included writing and directing films, including Drunk Wedding, and now running The McCollum Writing School (check it out for your kids-they work remotely).

Nick is from Pennsylvania and lived in Thayer and Kirkland. He concentrated in a special concentration- Media Arts.

]]>9f96ae95-22b6-48b4-8509-43c41bd84410Thu, 25 Dec 2025 09:00:00 -070050:21falsefull5858Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Judy BatalionHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Judy BatalionWe have our first drinking game podcast- take a drink every time Judy mentions her favorite place, the Science Center! In addition to her love of the Science Center, Judy talks about how working for Let’s Go and an exhibit on sofas changed her career trajectory. Judy is the author of White Walls (a memoir) and The Light of Days (a narrative non-fiction about young, Jewish women who fought the Nazis from within a Poland ghetto). She is currently working on two more books to come out in 2026. Learn more about Judy and her books here. Judy is from Montreal and lived in Weld and Adams and concentrated in History of Science.


]]>We have our first drinking game podcast- take a drink every time Judy mentions her favorite place, the Science Center! In addition to her love of the Science Center, Judy talks about how working for Let’s Go and an exhibit on sofas changed her career trajectory. Judy is the author of White Walls (a memoir) and The Light of Days (a narrative non-fiction about young, Jewish women who fought the Nazis from within a Poland ghetto). She is currently working on two more books to come out in 2026. Learn more about Judy and her books here. Judy is from Montreal and lived in Weld and Adams and concentrated in History of Science.


]]>26f9c290-257b-41ef-a740-f9e23388bdf4Thu, 18 Dec 2025 09:00:00 -070035:27falsefull5757Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Michael SternHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Michael SternMichael Stern talks about his life from being dropped off at the Philadelphia Zoo as a kid to his thesis and life work in Uganda. Michael is both a primatologist and runs the New Nature Foundation with his wife (and the help of a few classmates along the way!). Michael was a transfer student who lived in Quincy House and concentrated in Bio Anthro. Learn more about his work via a short film, the director’s cut, and the most recent New Nature Foundation annual report.

]]>Michael Stern talks about his life from being dropped off at the Philadelphia Zoo as a kid to his thesis and life work in Uganda. Michael is both a primatologist and runs the New Nature Foundation with his wife (and the help of a few classmates along the way!). Michael was a transfer student who lived in Quincy House and concentrated in Bio Anthro. Learn more about his work via a short film, the director’s cut, and the most recent New Nature Foundation annual report.

]]>3311b80f-601e-449b-8a62-09845d88c721Thu, 11 Dec 2025 09:00:00 -070043:25falsefull5656Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Jeffrey WeinshenkerHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Jeffrey WeinshenkerLong-time listener, first time caller, Jeff Weinshenker recounts his journey around the world (he’s been to 50 countries) over the past 25 years. Originally from New Jersey, this jean-short wearing, Springsteen and Bon Jovi fan, joined the State Department as a foreign service officer. Jeff talks about how failing the Spanish language placement test freshmen year led to the start of his State Department career in Japan. Stay tuned for the first classmate to sing a jingle about Annenberg pesto! 

Jeff lived in Greys Middle and Lowell House and was a Government concentrator.


]]>Long-time listener, first time caller, Jeff Weinshenker recounts his journey around the world (he’s been to 50 countries) over the past 25 years. Originally from New Jersey, this jean-short wearing, Springsteen and Bon Jovi fan, joined the State Department as a foreign service officer. Jeff talks about how failing the Spanish language placement test freshmen year led to the start of his State Department career in Japan. Stay tuned for the first classmate to sing a jingle about Annenberg pesto! 

Jeff lived in Greys Middle and Lowell House and was a Government concentrator.


]]>c8af1339-a95c-446b-9b00-41084f836441Thu, 04 Dec 2025 09:00:00 -070048:52falsefull5555Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Alexis Todor WalshHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Alexis Todor WalshToday, Eileen talks to her blockmate Alexis Todor Walsh about her work in the wine industry, the dedication it took to be a star member of the Harvard Swimming and Diving Team, why the “Landmarks” class has stuck with her all these years, and some favorite college memories. Remember the April Fool’s Day Blizzard freshman year? This Californian does! At Harvard, Alexis lived in Holworthy Middle and Currier House and concentrated in Psychology.

]]>Today, Eileen talks to her blockmate Alexis Todor Walsh about her work in the wine industry, the dedication it took to be a star member of the Harvard Swimming and Diving Team, why the “Landmarks” class has stuck with her all these years, and some favorite college memories. Remember the April Fool’s Day Blizzard freshman year? This Californian does! At Harvard, Alexis lived in Holworthy Middle and Currier House and concentrated in Psychology.

]]>14393cfa-fb2c-4fe3-90e4-c1a3301cf41fThu, 27 Nov 2025 09:00:00 -070023:27falsefull5454Harvard College 2000 Podcast: What We Left Unsaid Book ClubHarvard College 2000 Podcast: What We Left Unsaid Book ClubGet a peek into our first class book club, hosted by Eileen and featuring What We Left Unsaid by classmate Winnie Li. This is the second part of the book club, where Winnie spoke to us. If you'd like to join the book club, please email Dara, and she will add you to the email list.

]]>Get a peek into our first class book club, hosted by Eileen and featuring What We Left Unsaid by classmate Winnie Li. This is the second part of the book club, where Winnie spoke to us. If you'd like to join the book club, please email Dara, and she will add you to the email list.

]]>b3abe507-0096-48f7-890f-27c0991621a1Thu, 20 Nov 2025 09:00:00 -070001:03:35falsefull5353Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Jesse NeedlemanHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Jesse NeedlemanDara talks to Jesse Needleman about his travels, career in business and marketing, yoga and meditation, and his love of live music (which he now gets to work in- an amazing mix of work and play).

]]>Dara talks to Jesse Needleman about his travels, career in business and marketing, yoga and meditation, and his love of live music (which he now gets to work in- an amazing mix of work and play).

]]>dd641a42-4d03-4ba4-b22c-3c619567cfc4Thu, 13 Nov 2025 09:00:00 -070046:04falsefull5252Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Jason LarocqueHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Jason LarocqueDara talks to Jason Larocque about his journey from Harvard baseball to the Red Sox, and then into a long career in education. While still an educator, and still connected with the Harvard baseball team, Jason has combined his love of education, fitness, and men's health into an impressive coaching career. You can learn more about Jason's men's coaching program at: https://www.coachlarocque.com/ We are also posting this at the beginning of November, as Jason has raised tens of thousands of dollars for Movember, while also creating unique challenges for himself- this year, he is posting a #behindthesmile campaign about men and vulnerability on his Instagram.

Please join me in supporting Jason's Movember campaign!

]]>Dara talks to Jason Larocque about his journey from Harvard baseball to the Red Sox, and then into a long career in education. While still an educator, and still connected with the Harvard baseball team, Jason has combined his love of education, fitness, and men's health into an impressive coaching career. You can learn more about Jason's men's coaching program at: https://www.coachlarocque.com/ We are also posting this at the beginning of November, as Jason has raised tens of thousands of dollars for Movember, while also creating unique challenges for himself- this year, he is posting a #behindthesmile campaign about men and vulnerability on his Instagram.

Please join me in supporting Jason's Movember campaign!

]]>41222a61-aa20-4ecb-a9c4-60a4aa134181Thu, 06 Nov 2025 09:00:00 -070037:45falsefull5151Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Our 50th Episode!Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Our 50th Episode!It's our 50th episode!! Dara and Eileen take a minute to reflect on the podcast, our process, and some themes we've seen. Sign up to record your own episode or recommend someone!

]]>It's our 50th episode!! Dara and Eileen take a minute to reflect on the podcast, our process, and some themes we've seen. Sign up to record your own episode or recommend someone!

]]>445a9695-3837-4ede-9e19-093a6c3b3de3Thu, 30 Oct 2025 09:00:00 -070026:39falsefull5050Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Wendy May (Lu)Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Wendy May (Lu)Today Wendy (known as Wendy Lu in college) and Eileen discuss Wendy’s book, Regenerative Purpose, and the radical reframe of purpose not as a goal-driven personal mission, but rather a dynamic, co-creative process with Life — one that invites deeper connection and alignment with something beyond ourselves.

Wendy shares her winding journey from a successful corporate career to a life devoted to supporting others through various coaching and healing modalities, including psychedelic therapy.

This conversation also touches on Wendy’s emerging role as a land stewardess in her adopted home of Thailand where she is currently building an eco wellness retreat center, as a living model of interdependence and community.

Wendy’s Substack: words.heywendymay.com

Youtube channel: youtube.com/@heywendymay

Instagram: instagram.com/heywendymay

Video Essay, “Staying Human and Sovereign in the Age of AI”: https://youtu.be/WwS_W5TMmz4

]]>Today Wendy (known as Wendy Lu in college) and Eileen discuss Wendy’s book, Regenerative Purpose, and the radical reframe of purpose not as a goal-driven personal mission, but rather a dynamic, co-creative process with Life — one that invites deeper connection and alignment with something beyond ourselves.

Wendy shares her winding journey from a successful corporate career to a life devoted to supporting others through various coaching and healing modalities, including psychedelic therapy.

This conversation also touches on Wendy’s emerging role as a land stewardess in her adopted home of Thailand where she is currently building an eco wellness retreat center, as a living model of interdependence and community.

Wendy’s Substack: words.heywendymay.com

Youtube channel: youtube.com/@heywendymay

Instagram: instagram.com/heywendymay

Video Essay, “Staying Human and Sovereign in the Age of AI”: https://youtu.be/WwS_W5TMmz4

]]>d835425a-1659-41e7-a1b1-bc68d1712a84Thu, 23 Oct 2025 09:00:00 -070048:58falsefull149491Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Alisa Meny FreedHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Alisa Meny FreedDara talks to Alisa Meny Freed about being a family medicine doctor, taking care of parents, her upcoming trip around the world, Maine, photography, theater, and her husband, Dick Freed ‘01. 

Alisa lived in Thayer and Cabot and was an English and American Literature and Language concentrator.

]]>Dara talks to Alisa Meny Freed about being a family medicine doctor, taking care of parents, her upcoming trip around the world, Maine, photography, theater, and her husband, Dick Freed ‘01. 

Alisa lived in Thayer and Cabot and was an English and American Literature and Language concentrator.

]]>28f5ff1d-1164-4c08-9e19-4e67be3d4ba5Thu, 16 Oct 2025 09:00:00 -070049:32falsefull148481Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Izzy RuizHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Izzy RuizDara talks with Izzy Ruiz about his journey through the world of high fashion and design to his new-found passion of oenology and wine. Izzy explains his red book entry of how he crossed the cat-human speech border!  A proud member of the Currier 10 man, Izzy also lived in Canaday D and was a sociology concentrator.

]]>Dara talks with Izzy Ruiz about his journey through the world of high fashion and design to his new-found passion of oenology and wine. Izzy explains his red book entry of how he crossed the cat-human speech border!  A proud member of the Currier 10 man, Izzy also lived in Canaday D and was a sociology concentrator.

]]>e623bea4-51fc-4612-a517-09c15e4169ecThu, 09 Oct 2025 09:00:00 -070051:27falsefull147471Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Bhakti MirchandaniHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Bhakti MirchandaniDara talks to Bhakti about sustainable finance and investing, keeping in touch with friends, and her work teaching and writing about sustainability and finance. A huge thank you to Bhakti for hosting our spring NYC pre-reunion party at her house and co-hosting the one coming up on October 12th at the Empire Hotel bar. Bhakti lived in Canaday and Quincy House and concentrated in chemistry. 

You can read Bhakti’s monthly Forbes articles here: https://www.forbes.com/sites/bhaktimirchandani/


]]>Dara talks to Bhakti about sustainable finance and investing, keeping in touch with friends, and her work teaching and writing about sustainability and finance. A huge thank you to Bhakti for hosting our spring NYC pre-reunion party at her house and co-hosting the one coming up on October 12th at the Empire Hotel bar. Bhakti lived in Canaday and Quincy House and concentrated in chemistry. 

You can read Bhakti’s monthly Forbes articles here: https://www.forbes.com/sites/bhaktimirchandani/


]]>87c0d353-762f-450d-a348-a53f74e9e296Thu, 02 Oct 2025 09:00:00 -070027:25falsefull146461Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Michael BlaugrundHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Michael BlaugrundDara talks to Michael Blaugrund who tells us about his journey from Ohio to Cambridge to NYC. Michael talks about his band, the Headset, with classmates in NYC in his 20s to his work in the financial industry, including as the COO of the New York Stock Exchange  and CEO of DriveWealth (note that he has since changed positions since the interview to work at the Intercontinental Exchange. If you didn’t get your mail on time in Lowell House, it might be due to Michael! He lived in Grays and Lowell and was a government concentrator. A big thanks to Amanda Brown Baldwin (episode 41) who recommended Michael to the podcast.

]]>Dara talks to Michael Blaugrund who tells us about his journey from Ohio to Cambridge to NYC. Michael talks about his band, the Headset, with classmates in NYC in his 20s to his work in the financial industry, including as the COO of the New York Stock Exchange  and CEO of DriveWealth (note that he has since changed positions since the interview to work at the Intercontinental Exchange. If you didn’t get your mail on time in Lowell House, it might be due to Michael! He lived in Grays and Lowell and was a government concentrator. A big thanks to Amanda Brown Baldwin (episode 41) who recommended Michael to the podcast.

]]>8030fac5-972a-4a7f-a543-c6c0e28a8888Thu, 25 Sep 2025 09:00:00 -070025:22falsefull145451Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Sunana SohiHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Sunana SohiYou’ve seen her puns and jokes on the WhatsApp thread, now it’s time to get to know Sunana Sohi. Sunana is a gastroenterologist who makes talking about colonoscopies fun- and hot tip, get your colonoscopy now if you haven’t yet- we are past due at our age. Dara and Sunana talk about meeting her husband, classmate Greg Sulkowski over problem sets, vegan diets, the circus, living in her childhood home in Louisville, Kentucky, meditation, and the Harvard Book Award, which she gives out for the Harvard Club of Louisville, which she is now President of. Sunana lived in Wigglesworth and Currier and was a psychology concentrator. 


]]>You’ve seen her puns and jokes on the WhatsApp thread, now it’s time to get to know Sunana Sohi. Sunana is a gastroenterologist who makes talking about colonoscopies fun- and hot tip, get your colonoscopy now if you haven’t yet- we are past due at our age. Dara and Sunana talk about meeting her husband, classmate Greg Sulkowski over problem sets, vegan diets, the circus, living in her childhood home in Louisville, Kentucky, meditation, and the Harvard Book Award, which she gives out for the Harvard Club of Louisville, which she is now President of. Sunana lived in Wigglesworth and Currier and was a psychology concentrator. 


]]>84863333-3f17-4487-b7f9-7d97c5e812f3Thu, 18 Sep 2025 09:00:00 -070046:04falsefull144441Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Paul GutmanHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Paul GutmanDara talks to Paul today about his life as a NYC lawyer in the music business, representing such epic clients such as Dave Matthews Band and Pearl Jam, spending the past 19 years at the same firm! Paul also talks about meeting his wife thanks to classmate Ned Freeman, running, biking, and more! 

Paul lived in Matthews and Currier and was a government concentrator. 


]]>Dara talks to Paul today about his life as a NYC lawyer in the music business, representing such epic clients such as Dave Matthews Band and Pearl Jam, spending the past 19 years at the same firm! Paul also talks about meeting his wife thanks to classmate Ned Freeman, running, biking, and more! 

Paul lived in Matthews and Currier and was a government concentrator. 


]]>5d1d4663-1d83-410a-bb88-2949fd4fba70Thu, 11 Sep 2025 09:00:00 -070037:15falsefull143431Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Chris AmarHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Chris AmarToday’s episode features Chris Amar. Chris was a Class Marshal senior year. Chris talks about his journey from random jobs after college to publishing, Americorps, to being a lawyer, to his current career as a financial advisor. Chris talks about how he gives back to his community in so many ways- from being on the boards of so many non-profits to his annual party that guests bring gifts to for foster kids. (Side note: I had dinner with Chris this week and found out many, many more cool things he does to make the world better that he didn’t mention!) Chris lived in Pennypacker and Lowell and Cabot. He was a History and Literature concentrator.

]]>Today’s episode features Chris Amar. Chris was a Class Marshal senior year. Chris talks about his journey from random jobs after college to publishing, Americorps, to being a lawyer, to his current career as a financial advisor. Chris talks about how he gives back to his community in so many ways- from being on the boards of so many non-profits to his annual party that guests bring gifts to for foster kids. (Side note: I had dinner with Chris this week and found out many, many more cool things he does to make the world better that he didn’t mention!) Chris lived in Pennypacker and Lowell and Cabot. He was a History and Literature concentrator.

]]>98b34318-d072-481b-975b-d717e7a40a28Thu, 04 Sep 2025 09:00:00 -070037:43falsefull142421Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Amanda Brown BaldwinHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Amanda Brown BaldwinDara talks to Amanda Brown Baldwin about the throughlines of design, beauty, and business in her life. From turning left, not right when comping the Crimson, to going to a Goldman info session because she was hungry, all roads have brought Amanda to being the CEO of beauty companies Supergoop! and Olaplex. She also talks about the importance of putting things out in the world, and how that (and a classmate connection), led to her joining the board of Bryan Leach’s company Ibotta.

]]>Dara talks to Amanda Brown Baldwin about the throughlines of design, beauty, and business in her life. From turning left, not right when comping the Crimson, to going to a Goldman info session because she was hungry, all roads have brought Amanda to being the CEO of beauty companies Supergoop! and Olaplex. She also talks about the importance of putting things out in the world, and how that (and a classmate connection), led to her joining the board of Bryan Leach’s company Ibotta.

]]>9dd933e5-aa81-420d-9357-fe41792d7be4Thu, 28 Aug 2025 09:00:00 -070033:02falsefull141411Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Chris CowherdHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Chris CowherdDr. Christopher Cowherd is an educator and school leader who is passionate about innovation, student agency, and self-directed learning. Having worked in New England independent schools, international schools in Barcelona, Beijing, Bangkok, and now as the executive director of learning and innovation at the International Community School of Addis Ababa [Ethiopia], his philosophy centers on creating dynamic, student-centered educational experiences that prepare learners for an unpredictable future. He emphasizes ethical leadership, collaboration, and fostering curiosity in students and educators alike. Dr. Cowherd integrates his love for film, sports, and music into his work while advocating for schools that empower students to co-create their learning.

At Harvard, Chris concentrated in Social Anthropology and lived in Weld and Kirkland House.


]]>Dr. Christopher Cowherd is an educator and school leader who is passionate about innovation, student agency, and self-directed learning. Having worked in New England independent schools, international schools in Barcelona, Beijing, Bangkok, and now as the executive director of learning and innovation at the International Community School of Addis Ababa [Ethiopia], his philosophy centers on creating dynamic, student-centered educational experiences that prepare learners for an unpredictable future. He emphasizes ethical leadership, collaboration, and fostering curiosity in students and educators alike. Dr. Cowherd integrates his love for film, sports, and music into his work while advocating for schools that empower students to co-create their learning.

At Harvard, Chris concentrated in Social Anthropology and lived in Weld and Kirkland House.


]]>8f7653e6-8045-4d1f-876a-2121ac56da7eThu, 21 Aug 2025 09:00:00 -070058:00falsefull140401Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Lano WilliamsHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Lano WilliamsIn today’s episode, Dara interviews Lano Williams. Lano lived in Hollis North and Winthrop. Lano talks to Dara about his writing (which many of you have read post-reunion), his journey with addiction (and a huge post-reunion thank you to Lano for organizing daily recovery meetings for classmates), his Red Book entries, including his marriage to a classmate in Vegas! Check out Lano’s websites including his Etsy store: https://www.etsy.com/shop/xolano , theperfectloveletter.com , and his reunion essay and other writings at: https://thesway.com/codex

Today's episode is preceded by our second non-profit ad, by Kyle Clayton, for City Harvest, a food rescue non-profit he works at in NYC.

]]>In today’s episode, Dara interviews Lano Williams. Lano lived in Hollis North and Winthrop. Lano talks to Dara about his writing (which many of you have read post-reunion), his journey with addiction (and a huge post-reunion thank you to Lano for organizing daily recovery meetings for classmates), his Red Book entries, including his marriage to a classmate in Vegas! Check out Lano’s websites including his Etsy store: https://www.etsy.com/shop/xolano , theperfectloveletter.com , and his reunion essay and other writings at: https://thesway.com/codex

Today's episode is preceded by our second non-profit ad, by Kyle Clayton, for City Harvest, a food rescue non-profit he works at in NYC.

]]>c5bdc01f-f207-4e89-adca-f928415315c0Thu, 14 Aug 2025 09:00:00 -070050:42falsefull139391Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Reunion Memorial ServiceHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Reunion Memorial ServiceOn Sunday, June 8, 2025, our class held a Memorial Service in Memorial Church for the classmates we have lost. The service was organized by Sienna Leis and led by our classmate, the Reverend Dr. Teddy Hickman-Maynard. Readers include: John Basbagill, Jessamyn Conrad, Sonali Das Thiesen, Edidiong Ikpe-Ekpo, Justin Krebs, Izzy Ruiz, Malka Zeefe, and Sara Reistad-Long. A chorus composed of class members was led by Melina McTigue Garland. You can find the program from the service below:

https://alumni.harvard.edu/sites/default/files/page/noindex/2000%2025th%20Reunion%20Memorial%20Service%20Program.pdf


]]>On Sunday, June 8, 2025, our class held a Memorial Service in Memorial Church for the classmates we have lost. The service was organized by Sienna Leis and led by our classmate, the Reverend Dr. Teddy Hickman-Maynard. Readers include: John Basbagill, Jessamyn Conrad, Sonali Das Thiesen, Edidiong Ikpe-Ekpo, Justin Krebs, Izzy Ruiz, Malka Zeefe, and Sara Reistad-Long. A chorus composed of class members was led by Melina McTigue Garland. You can find the program from the service below:

https://alumni.harvard.edu/sites/default/files/page/noindex/2000%2025th%20Reunion%20Memorial%20Service%20Program.pdf


]]>3f9b8ce1-ce54-4ab0-a691-43d040449c93Thu, 07 Aug 2025 09:00:00 -070059:12falsefull138381Harvard College 2000 Podcast: The Science of Living the Good LifeHarvard College 2000 Podcast: The Science of Living the Good LifeToday we have another reunion throwback! On Saturday, June 7th, Kibi Anderson and Sara Blanchard hosted Professor Robert Waldinger for a session that was standing room only! Below is the original description. 

Many of us left Harvard believing that success was measured in careers, wealth, and prestige. But what if the true markers of a good life lie elsewhere? Join us for a fireside chat with Dr. Robert Waldinger, renowned psychiatrist and Director of the Harvard Study of Adult Development, as we explore the surprising lessons from one of the longest studies on happiness. Alongside classmates from the Class of 2000, we’ll reflect on how our definitions of success have evolved—and what it really means to live a life of purpose, connection, and joy.

]]>Today we have another reunion throwback! On Saturday, June 7th, Kibi Anderson and Sara Blanchard hosted Professor Robert Waldinger for a session that was standing room only! Below is the original description. 

Many of us left Harvard believing that success was measured in careers, wealth, and prestige. But what if the true markers of a good life lie elsewhere? Join us for a fireside chat with Dr. Robert Waldinger, renowned psychiatrist and Director of the Harvard Study of Adult Development, as we explore the surprising lessons from one of the longest studies on happiness. Alongside classmates from the Class of 2000, we’ll reflect on how our definitions of success have evolved—and what it really means to live a life of purpose, connection, and joy.

]]>db07d986-025a-4519-85f3-2707b623340aThu, 31 Jul 2025 13:15:00 -070056:48falsefull137371Harvard College 2000 Podcast: The Paths We’ve Traveled- Unexpected Journeys Across 25 YearsHarvard College 2000 Podcast: The Paths We’ve Traveled- Unexpected Journeys Across 25 YearsThis podcast episode features an edited audio recording of the 25th Reunion session, “The Paths We’ve Traveled: Unexpected Journeys Across 25 Years,” held on Saturday, June 7, 9-11AM, in Sanders Theatre.

The session featured nine classmates who shared a story about some of the experiences that have shaped their paths and how they understand what matters in life over the past 25 years. Organized by classmates Katherine Jo, Linnea (Housewright) Beckwith, and Jason Stevenson, with the help of several other classmates, this program followed in the footsteps of our Class Day speaker Conan O’Brien, who, 25 years earlier, openly shared with us some of the struggles, disappointments, and failures he experienced after graduating. 

Below is the original description, along with the names of the individual speakers in this recording and time markers for each story. The stories are preceded by introductory remarks by Katherine, Linnea, and Jason, which includes a brief clip from Conan’s Class Day speech, and are followed by a time of discussion with the speakers and reflection questions for those in the audience. We encourage you to listen from beginning to end for the fullest experience. 

NOTE: This session was not originally intended to be recorded, and the speakers shared their stories with the understanding that it would not be recorded. It was only learned after the session that Sanders staff had made an audio recording. This edited version is being shared because the organizers and speakers believe that the stories are valuable for classmates who could not attend the session or Reunion. Due to the very personal nature of the stories, however, not all speakers have chosen to share their stories beyond the session, and only 7 stories are featured in this recording.

Original description: 

Life doesn't come with a roadmap, and no Harvard course could prepare us for all its surprises. But we don’t have to go it alone. Reflecting on the twists and turns in their own paths, nine classmates open up about what they’ve been learning about ambition, pain, love, regret, forgiveness, uncertainty, joy, rebuilding, aging, being enough, and navigating mid-life toward a life well-lived. Come sit with us and connect.

Time Markers:

  • Clip of Conan O'Brien Class Day Speech (June 2000) [3:21]
  • Eileen O'Connor: teacher | writer | auntie | friend [6:33]
  • Nathaniel Ekman: nonprofit leader | mental health advocate | born to be alive [12:41]
  • Julio Vincent Gambuto: author + moviemaker | husband | guncle [18:51]
  • Emy Trende: Chief Legal Officer | caregiver wellness advocate | mother of dragons [28:30]
  • Sitso Bediako: husband | father | problem-solver | aspirant [35:19]
  • Melissa Sueling: advisor I mom I turtle squad runner I varsity snuggling [41:15]
  • Marjolein Cuellar: recovering gold-star collector | mom of teens | practicing presence [48:25]
  • Discussion: [53:53]

]]>This podcast episode features an edited audio recording of the 25th Reunion session, “The Paths We’ve Traveled: Unexpected Journeys Across 25 Years,” held on Saturday, June 7, 9-11AM, in Sanders Theatre.

The session featured nine classmates who shared a story about some of the experiences that have shaped their paths and how they understand what matters in life over the past 25 years. Organized by classmates Katherine Jo, Linnea (Housewright) Beckwith, and Jason Stevenson, with the help of several other classmates, this program followed in the footsteps of our Class Day speaker Conan O’Brien, who, 25 years earlier, openly shared with us some of the struggles, disappointments, and failures he experienced after graduating. 

Below is the original description, along with the names of the individual speakers in this recording and time markers for each story. The stories are preceded by introductory remarks by Katherine, Linnea, and Jason, which includes a brief clip from Conan’s Class Day speech, and are followed by a time of discussion with the speakers and reflection questions for those in the audience. We encourage you to listen from beginning to end for the fullest experience. 

NOTE: This session was not originally intended to be recorded, and the speakers shared their stories with the understanding that it would not be recorded. It was only learned after the session that Sanders staff had made an audio recording. This edited version is being shared because the organizers and speakers believe that the stories are valuable for classmates who could not attend the session or Reunion. Due to the very personal nature of the stories, however, not all speakers have chosen to share their stories beyond the session, and only 7 stories are featured in this recording.

Original description: 

Life doesn't come with a roadmap, and no Harvard course could prepare us for all its surprises. But we don’t have to go it alone. Reflecting on the twists and turns in their own paths, nine classmates open up about what they’ve been learning about ambition, pain, love, regret, forgiveness, uncertainty, joy, rebuilding, aging, being enough, and navigating mid-life toward a life well-lived. Come sit with us and connect.

Time Markers:

  • Clip of Conan O'Brien Class Day Speech (June 2000) [3:21]
  • Eileen O'Connor: teacher | writer | auntie | friend [6:33]
  • Nathaniel Ekman: nonprofit leader | mental health advocate | born to be alive [12:41]
  • Julio Vincent Gambuto: author + moviemaker | husband | guncle [18:51]
  • Emy Trende: Chief Legal Officer | caregiver wellness advocate | mother of dragons [28:30]
  • Sitso Bediako: husband | father | problem-solver | aspirant [35:19]
  • Melissa Sueling: advisor I mom I turtle squad runner I varsity snuggling [41:15]
  • Marjolein Cuellar: recovering gold-star collector | mom of teens | practicing presence [48:25]
  • Discussion: [53:53]

]]>3e70593d-4704-408b-952c-5ca32a3472f1Thu, 24 Jul 2025 09:00:00 -070001:07:58falsefull136361Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Angela Crenshaw ShaimanHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Angela Crenshaw ShaimanToday, Dara talks to Angela Crenshaw Shaiman about living in Dudley Coop, her work as a psychotherapist, working with Cornel West, and living in Colorado. Angela lived in Weld, Dunster, and the Dudley Coop and concentrated in African-American Studies.

Angela's professional website is available here: https://www.angelashaimanmft.com/

]]>Today, Dara talks to Angela Crenshaw Shaiman about living in Dudley Coop, her work as a psychotherapist, working with Cornel West, and living in Colorado. Angela lived in Weld, Dunster, and the Dudley Coop and concentrated in African-American Studies.

Angela's professional website is available here: https://www.angelashaimanmft.com/

]]>503dc223-9cbd-4268-a2a2-a25689889ba4Thu, 17 Jul 2025 09:00:00 -070027:56falsefull135351Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Danny ShapiroHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Danny ShapiroToday Dara talks to Danny Shapiro about his journey from being a life-long, die-hard New Yorker, to moving out west and living in the San Francisco suburbs. Danny talks about his interest in non-profits, public policy, health, aging well, and ideally playing soccer for the rest of his life. Danny lived in Pennypacker and Dunster and was an economics concentrator. 

We are also excited to feature non-profit “ads” before episodes! Our first one is from Matherite Runa Islam who is on the board of Mosaic: Interfaith Youth Action, based in the Boston area.


]]>Today Dara talks to Danny Shapiro about his journey from being a life-long, die-hard New Yorker, to moving out west and living in the San Francisco suburbs. Danny talks about his interest in non-profits, public policy, health, aging well, and ideally playing soccer for the rest of his life. Danny lived in Pennypacker and Dunster and was an economics concentrator. 

We are also excited to feature non-profit “ads” before episodes! Our first one is from Matherite Runa Islam who is on the board of Mosaic: Interfaith Youth Action, based in the Boston area.


]]>f387557c-6f13-429c-a924-1498cd314ff2Thu, 10 Jul 2025 09:00:00 -070037:17falsefull134341Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Wendy Lu's Reunion Reflection EssayHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Wendy Lu's Reunion Reflection EssayThis is a reading of an essay by Wendy May, author, purpose coach, healing guide and wellness retreat creator. The essay was originally published on her Substack channel, Maybe We — a space for human-generated words that explore awakening at the intersection of spirituality and social change. For more of Wendy’s words, you can subscribe to her Substack here: words.heywendymay.com

]]>This is a reading of an essay by Wendy May, author, purpose coach, healing guide and wellness retreat creator. The essay was originally published on her Substack channel, Maybe We — a space for human-generated words that explore awakening at the intersection of spirituality and social change. For more of Wendy’s words, you can subscribe to her Substack here: words.heywendymay.com

]]>498f7fb7-0bb3-43a3-8b8b-2e7752549e02Thu, 03 Jul 2025 09:00:00 -070012:11falsefull133331Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Jessica MontalvoHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Jessica MontalvoIn this episode, Eileen talks to physician Jessica Montalvo about her journey from treating patients and teaching in a hospital setting to practicing functional medicine, which is based upon “understanding the human body as a complex system of systems.” Jess also shares her thoughts about the power of a quiet morning, making space for boredom and curiosity (so that the magic can come in), and the joy and unconditional love that comes with caring for a dog.

At Harvard, Jessica lived in Straus and Mather and concentrated in English while completing pre-med courses.

]]>In this episode, Eileen talks to physician Jessica Montalvo about her journey from treating patients and teaching in a hospital setting to practicing functional medicine, which is based upon “understanding the human body as a complex system of systems.” Jess also shares her thoughts about the power of a quiet morning, making space for boredom and curiosity (so that the magic can come in), and the joy and unconditional love that comes with caring for a dog.

At Harvard, Jessica lived in Straus and Mather and concentrated in English while completing pre-med courses.

]]>ba1f8fc9-8ef4-44ee-997f-8538398df3c1Thu, 26 Jun 2025 09:00:00 -070055:51falsefull132321Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Reunion SundayHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Reunion SundayOur final day together! See you at the walk/run, Memorial Service, or brunch at Annenberg.....

View the memorial service program

]]>Our final day together! See you at the walk/run, Memorial Service, or brunch at Annenberg.....

View the memorial service program

]]>a494704a-643e-49b4-a2ca-15641459cfafSat, 07 Jun 2025 05:00:00 -070001:13falsefull131311Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Reunion SaturdayHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Reunion SaturdaySaturday updates including all our amazing panels and party at the Science Center tents.

The document listing all of our classmates in the arts (that we currently know of) is here. Email me, Winnie Li, or Eileen O'Connor if you'd like to be added to it or know of someone who should be on it!

]]>Saturday updates including all our amazing panels and party at the Science Center tents.

The document listing all of our classmates in the arts (that we currently know of) is here. Email me, Winnie Li, or Eileen O'Connor if you'd like to be added to it or know of someone who should be on it!

]]>f3e4b0a6-28e2-4eaf-89f8-ae91b42307b8Fri, 06 Jun 2025 03:00:00 -070004:57falsefull130301Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Reunion FridayHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Reunion FridayFriday is Alumni Day- and is chock full of Harvard-focused events!

We start with Forming a More Perfect Harvard at 8:45am in Science Center B, move on to the Alumni Day Parade & Program (line up at Grays), check out the FAQ about bags, then a party in the Old Yard, then a whole bunch of programs- from symposia (Joe Garland is speaking at the public service one- go support him!), to SIG meetups, to reunion wide gatherings. We end the day with our party and dinner in Annenberg!

Our schedule

Alumni Day schedule

FAQs on Alumni Day

]]>Friday is Alumni Day- and is chock full of Harvard-focused events!

We start with Forming a More Perfect Harvard at 8:45am in Science Center B, move on to the Alumni Day Parade & Program (line up at Grays), check out the FAQ about bags, then a party in the Old Yard, then a whole bunch of programs- from symposia (Joe Garland is speaking at the public service one- go support him!), to SIG meetups, to reunion wide gatherings. We end the day with our party and dinner in Annenberg!

Our schedule

Alumni Day schedule

FAQs on Alumni Day

]]>42032c96-82b2-4dac-a12b-248416d61c47Thu, 05 Jun 2025 03:00:00 -070007:04falsefull129291Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Reunion ThursdayHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Reunion ThursdayHere's a quick update on what's going on Thursday at reunion- see you at Lowell House or Grafton Street!

]]>Here's a quick update on what's going on Thursday at reunion- see you at Lowell House or Grafton Street!

]]>2966541d-5eb9-4dd7-bf02-7adcaf3a50d0Wed, 04 Jun 2025 09:00:00 -070002:39falsefull128281Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Hayley Solomon QuantHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Hayley Solomon QuantDara talks to Hayley Solomon Quant about her journey to being an ob-gyn doctor, Peloton, JV ice hockey, meeting her husband, and family life. Hayley lived in Grays West, Quincy House, and was a biology concentrator.

]]>Dara talks to Hayley Solomon Quant about her journey to being an ob-gyn doctor, Peloton, JV ice hockey, meeting her husband, and family life. Hayley lived in Grays West, Quincy House, and was a biology concentrator.

]]>c146073c-defe-4159-9a6a-187bef3b0f57Thu, 29 May 2025 09:00:00 -070022:04falsefull127271Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Elizabeth Dotson-Westphalen FrascoiaHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Elizabeth Dotson-Westphalen FrascoiaToday, Dara talks to Elizabeth Dotson-Westphalen Frascoia about all things jazz, the Harvard Club of Beef, and Eliot House’s grilled cheese and chicken a la king. Elizabeth is a trombonist and singer who has two albums (Hot & Silver and Brainchildren)- check them out on Band Camp. She’s played around the world with everyone from Adele to Michael Bolton to Big Bird to Dara’s favorite Harvard alum- Conan! Elizabeth is not only a gifted musician, but she is now the Executive Director of the Governor’s Institutes of Vermont, which she attended as a kid. Check out her music website: elizabeth!

]]>Today, Dara talks to Elizabeth Dotson-Westphalen Frascoia about all things jazz, the Harvard Club of Beef, and Eliot House’s grilled cheese and chicken a la king. Elizabeth is a trombonist and singer who has two albums (Hot & Silver and Brainchildren)- check them out on Band Camp. She’s played around the world with everyone from Adele to Michael Bolton to Big Bird to Dara’s favorite Harvard alum- Conan! Elizabeth is not only a gifted musician, but she is now the Executive Director of the Governor’s Institutes of Vermont, which she attended as a kid. Check out her music website: elizabeth!

]]>d066af9b-102b-497c-93cf-06d784ca65d7Thu, 22 May 2025 09:00:00 -070036:32falsefull126261Harvard College 2000 Podcast: The 25th ReunionHarvard College 2000 Podcast: The 25th ReunionWe have a special short episode today where you will hear from some of the many classmates on our reunion committee who have been organizing some amazing panels and events for you- hear some of the details on these events. Remember, early bird online registration ends May 15th, but you can always walk in and register. A huge thank you to everyone on the committee who has been volunteering this year to make this program come to life!

https://alumni.harvard.edu/reunions/class-programming/25th-reunion

]]>We have a special short episode today where you will hear from some of the many classmates on our reunion committee who have been organizing some amazing panels and events for you- hear some of the details on these events. Remember, early bird online registration ends May 15th, but you can always walk in and register. A huge thank you to everyone on the committee who has been volunteering this year to make this program come to life!

https://alumni.harvard.edu/reunions/class-programming/25th-reunion

]]>60bdff38-ef01-4633-91a5-875bdb54dbd8Wed, 14 May 2025 09:00:00 -070019:18falsefull125251Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Kathy Hurwich HaasHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Kathy Hurwich HaasEileen has a conversation with museum curator Kathy Hurwich Haas, Director of Historical Resources at Girard College in Philadelphia. Kathy talks about her love of archival research, history, and museum education, and her dedication to singing choral music and long, adventuresome treks — she completed the Camino de Santiago! Kathy also shares her story of conversion to Catholicism and the classmate who made the biggest impact on her life. 

At Harvard, Kathy was a History Concentrator and lived in Grays and Eliot House. She is married to Robert Haas '98 and has “somehow managed to raise two children to legal adulthood,” a college junior and a high school senior.


]]>Eileen has a conversation with museum curator Kathy Hurwich Haas, Director of Historical Resources at Girard College in Philadelphia. Kathy talks about her love of archival research, history, and museum education, and her dedication to singing choral music and long, adventuresome treks — she completed the Camino de Santiago! Kathy also shares her story of conversion to Catholicism and the classmate who made the biggest impact on her life. 

At Harvard, Kathy was a History Concentrator and lived in Grays and Eliot House. She is married to Robert Haas '98 and has “somehow managed to raise two children to legal adulthood,” a college junior and a high school senior.


]]>843c609c-196d-44fe-84a6-788024b3e6e4Thu, 08 May 2025 09:00:00 -070040:31falsefull124241Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Alicia Carrasquillo MeyerHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Alicia Carrasquillo MeyerAlicia and Dara talk about her days as a cheerleader getting to explore the Northeast, working on the Cue Guide, running a PBHA program, and the continued impact Robert Putnam has had on her life. Alicia is now the parent of a Harvard freshman and looking at going back to school herself! Listen to learn more about why giving to the Harvard College Fund is so important, the impact Harvard had on her life, and how she is now paying it forward through giving to the Harvard College Fund. Alicia lived in Holworthy, Leverett, and Quincy and was a government concentrator.

Donate to the Harvard College Fund here.

Learn more about the ABC House.

]]>Alicia and Dara talk about her days as a cheerleader getting to explore the Northeast, working on the Cue Guide, running a PBHA program, and the continued impact Robert Putnam has had on her life. Alicia is now the parent of a Harvard freshman and looking at going back to school herself! Listen to learn more about why giving to the Harvard College Fund is so important, the impact Harvard had on her life, and how she is now paying it forward through giving to the Harvard College Fund. Alicia lived in Holworthy, Leverett, and Quincy and was a government concentrator.

Donate to the Harvard College Fund here.

Learn more about the ABC House.

]]>7f011653-fb55-4ce0-8145-0fea7749979dThu, 01 May 2025 09:00:00 -070046:35falsefull123231Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Sarah Melvoin Bridich & Jeff BridichHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Sarah Melvoin Bridich & Jeff BridichToday, Dara interviews her first couple! Sarah Melvoin Bridich and Jeff Bridich chat about their couple origin story, their odyssey together since graduation, and their Harvard Yard family connections, including generations of baseball players and a family of secondary school educators. Jeff speaks about his journey from Harvard Baseball to managing the Colorado Rockies, while Sarah talks about her career arc, from teaching high school history to earning a PhD and now corporate philanthropy. Sarah lived in Massachusetts Hall and Mather and Winthrop, while Jeff lived in Weld and Adams. Sarah concentrated in Social Studies and Jeff in Psychology.

]]>Today, Dara interviews her first couple! Sarah Melvoin Bridich and Jeff Bridich chat about their couple origin story, their odyssey together since graduation, and their Harvard Yard family connections, including generations of baseball players and a family of secondary school educators. Jeff speaks about his journey from Harvard Baseball to managing the Colorado Rockies, while Sarah talks about her career arc, from teaching high school history to earning a PhD and now corporate philanthropy. Sarah lived in Massachusetts Hall and Mather and Winthrop, while Jeff lived in Weld and Adams. Sarah concentrated in Social Studies and Jeff in Psychology.

]]>43b11c00-881a-4e14-9f62-1fb81550ea96Thu, 24 Apr 2025 09:00:00 -070039:18falsefull122221Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Jeremy SmithHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Jeremy SmithToday, Dara talks to Jeremy Smith. Most importantly, Jeremy is going to the Shakira concert in Orlando, Florida on his way to reunion (apparently, it’s close by?!) if anyone wants to join him (Seriously. We bumped the playing of this podcast up to give people time to arrange their plans). Jeremy tells the story of how he went from drawing stick figure cartoons for The Crimson to a fellowship in Europe to settling down in Missoula, Montana. Jeremy has written three books, created an amazing podcast with his then 10-year-old daughter that played on public radio, to his current role as an executive coach, speaker, and facilitator. 


]]>Today, Dara talks to Jeremy Smith. Most importantly, Jeremy is going to the Shakira concert in Orlando, Florida on his way to reunion (apparently, it’s close by?!) if anyone wants to join him (Seriously. We bumped the playing of this podcast up to give people time to arrange their plans). Jeremy tells the story of how he went from drawing stick figure cartoons for The Crimson to a fellowship in Europe to settling down in Missoula, Montana. Jeremy has written three books, created an amazing podcast with his then 10-year-old daughter that played on public radio, to his current role as an executive coach, speaker, and facilitator. 


]]>a606dc1b-7571-4ea9-acb8-b7e2d2e1ccd5Thu, 10 Apr 2025 09:00:00 -070047:47falsefull121211Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Kibi AndersonHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Kibi AndersonToday, Eileen talks with the dynamic Kibi Anderson—lifelong storyteller, executive coach, and leadership expert—about the powerful connection between the stories we tell ourselves and how we communicate with others. Kibi shares her insights on curiosity as a core leadership skill, the role of emotions and honesty in the workplace, and her frameworks The Power of the Pause and becoming a Rested Rebel—a call to resist burnout and reclaim strategic clarity. At Harvard, Kibi lived in Thayer and Eliot House and concentrated in East Asian Studies.

Links: 

-       Kibi’s website.

-       Trailer for “Mighty Warriors of Comedy” the Emmy-winning film about Asian Americans in comedy that Kibi produced. 

-       Read Kibi’s chapter in Point Taken: Brilliant Business Advice from Women at the Top. 

-       Listen to Kibi on classmate Sara Blanchard's podcast: rested rebel episode & the significance of hair episode

]]>Today, Eileen talks with the dynamic Kibi Anderson—lifelong storyteller, executive coach, and leadership expert—about the powerful connection between the stories we tell ourselves and how we communicate with others. Kibi shares her insights on curiosity as a core leadership skill, the role of emotions and honesty in the workplace, and her frameworks The Power of the Pause and becoming a Rested Rebel—a call to resist burnout and reclaim strategic clarity. At Harvard, Kibi lived in Thayer and Eliot House and concentrated in East Asian Studies.

Links: 

-       Kibi’s website.

-       Trailer for “Mighty Warriors of Comedy” the Emmy-winning film about Asian Americans in comedy that Kibi produced. 

-       Read Kibi’s chapter in Point Taken: Brilliant Business Advice from Women at the Top. 

-       Listen to Kibi on classmate Sara Blanchard's podcast: rested rebel episode & the significance of hair episode

]]>5c397e2b-0c51-4886-9cea-8d8a944d4ee5Thu, 10 Apr 2025 09:00:00 -070041:14falsefull120201Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Brendan HarleyHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Brendan HarleyDara talks to Brendan Harley, a professor of chemical and biological engineering at the University of Illinois. Brendan talks about his research and the joys of working at a university, running marathons and ultramarathons, how having leukemia (AML -acute myelogenous leukemia, but also CLL, the same CLL that Matt Davids researches- see last week’s interview), and meeting his wife at Harvard.

His Dana Farber Marathon Challenge fundraising page: http://danafarber.jimmyfund.org/goto/run-brendan-run

]]>Dara talks to Brendan Harley, a professor of chemical and biological engineering at the University of Illinois. Brendan talks about his research and the joys of working at a university, running marathons and ultramarathons, how having leukemia (AML -acute myelogenous leukemia, but also CLL, the same CLL that Matt Davids researches- see last week’s interview), and meeting his wife at Harvard.

His Dana Farber Marathon Challenge fundraising page: http://danafarber.jimmyfund.org/goto/run-brendan-run

]]>c67ddcd9-5732-4fc5-9dea-5d8cfdd514cdThu, 03 Apr 2025 09:00:00 -070042:39falsefull119191Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Matt DavidsHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Matt DavidsDara talks to Matt Davids about picking up his wife at the gym, saving his uncle’s life (and so many others) through his work as a doctor and researcher of CLL (a blood leukemia), applying to medical schools while living overseas, and raising half a million dollars for cancer research through an annual 192 mile cycling event (join me in donating- see link below!).

Boston Magazine article on Matt: https://bostonmagazine.com/health/2016/06/06/matthew-davids-pmc/

...and these stories which aired on WBZ-TV:

2017: https://youtu.be/JVu3MfXQvRs

2022: https://youtu.be/o4IJM5xllyE

A podcast that featured Matt talking about CLL & Venetoclax: CLL Updates and the Venetoclax - Healthcare Unfiltered - Apple Podcasts

And his Pan-Mass Challenge fundraising page: https://profile.pmc.org/MD0305

]]>Dara talks to Matt Davids about picking up his wife at the gym, saving his uncle’s life (and so many others) through his work as a doctor and researcher of CLL (a blood leukemia), applying to medical schools while living overseas, and raising half a million dollars for cancer research through an annual 192 mile cycling event (join me in donating- see link below!).

Boston Magazine article on Matt: https://bostonmagazine.com/health/2016/06/06/matthew-davids-pmc/

...and these stories which aired on WBZ-TV:

2017: https://youtu.be/JVu3MfXQvRs

2022: https://youtu.be/o4IJM5xllyE

A podcast that featured Matt talking about CLL & Venetoclax: CLL Updates and the Venetoclax - Healthcare Unfiltered - Apple Podcasts

And his Pan-Mass Challenge fundraising page: https://profile.pmc.org/MD0305

]]>2006623c-fcea-47b0-b444-0507031cbe8dThu, 27 Mar 2025 09:00:00 -070039:30falsefull118181Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Bryan LeachHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Bryan LeachIn this episode, Dara talks to Bryan Leach about theater, mountain climbing, meeting his wife at Harvard, writing for Let’s Go, living a life of purpose, singing with The Blowholes, and giving back through his company Ibotta (which you should download if you don’t have it yet!). Ibotta had the largest tech IPO in Colorado history, changing the lives of so many employees and investors, a much bigger success than his social studies thesis. Can someone remember to ask for the dj to play Love Shack at reunion, please???

Watch the talk Brian references on mental health and the startup founder.

]]>In this episode, Dara talks to Bryan Leach about theater, mountain climbing, meeting his wife at Harvard, writing for Let’s Go, living a life of purpose, singing with The Blowholes, and giving back through his company Ibotta (which you should download if you don’t have it yet!). Ibotta had the largest tech IPO in Colorado history, changing the lives of so many employees and investors, a much bigger success than his social studies thesis. Can someone remember to ask for the dj to play Love Shack at reunion, please???

Watch the talk Brian references on mental health and the startup founder.

]]>0a4d28b1-bb21-40a8-9b37-2044d9514254Thu, 20 Mar 2025 09:00:00 -070045:32falsefull117171Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Sinead WalshHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Sinead WalshIn this episode, Eileen talks to Dublin-native Sinead Walsh about her amazing career of service working for NGOs and the Irish government. Sinead is currently Climate Director at Ireland’s Department of Foreign Affairs. Before that, she served as EU Ambassador to South Sudan and Irish Ambassador to Sierra Leone and Liberia, where she took a leading role on the frontline of the response to the Ebola virus epidemic in 2014. We talk about the lessons she’s learned from her work, her unlikely (and funny!) Harvard admissions story, the joys of being an auntie, and the feel-good power of exercise, sharing delicious meals with friends, and volunteering in your local community. Sinead lived in Winthrop House and concentrated in English. 

Sinead’s book, co-written with Oliver Johnson: Getting to Zero: A Doctor and a Diplomat on the Ebola Frontline

]]>In this episode, Eileen talks to Dublin-native Sinead Walsh about her amazing career of service working for NGOs and the Irish government. Sinead is currently Climate Director at Ireland’s Department of Foreign Affairs. Before that, she served as EU Ambassador to South Sudan and Irish Ambassador to Sierra Leone and Liberia, where she took a leading role on the frontline of the response to the Ebola virus epidemic in 2014. We talk about the lessons she’s learned from her work, her unlikely (and funny!) Harvard admissions story, the joys of being an auntie, and the feel-good power of exercise, sharing delicious meals with friends, and volunteering in your local community. Sinead lived in Winthrop House and concentrated in English. 

Sinead’s book, co-written with Oliver Johnson: Getting to Zero: A Doctor and a Diplomat on the Ebola Frontline

]]>85fcf686-b438-4be3-91b3-6b6ca95bfb44Thu, 13 Mar 2025 09:00:00 -070001:02:18falsefull116161Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Matthew TrentHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Matthew TrentDara talks to Matthew Trent about fashion, New York City, theater, Cape Cod, and singing bass at Marie’s Crisis, a piano bar in NYC. Matthew has worked in talent and human resources at Ralph Lauren, Louis Vuitton, Christian Dior Couture, Tapestry, and the luxury division of Loreal. Matthew is also on the Board of Trustees at the New York Theatre Workshop.

]]>Dara talks to Matthew Trent about fashion, New York City, theater, Cape Cod, and singing bass at Marie’s Crisis, a piano bar in NYC. Matthew has worked in talent and human resources at Ralph Lauren, Louis Vuitton, Christian Dior Couture, Tapestry, and the luxury division of Loreal. Matthew is also on the Board of Trustees at the New York Theatre Workshop.

]]>ef458ec4-a5df-4f0a-80b3-99c678f7eb46Thu, 06 Mar 2025 09:00:00 -070026:23falsefull115151Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Ali WenzkeHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Ali WenzkeToday, Eileen talks to Ali Wenzke, best-selling author of The Art of Happy Moving: How to Declutter, Pack, and Start Over While Maintaining Your Sanity and Finding Happiness. Ali shares advice for organizing and decluttering our spaces, cultivating gratitude, and living a joyful life. Pro-tip: have fun and spend time with those you love. Ali’s enthusiasm is so infectious that she even inspired this lifelong night owl to commit to a morning routine! At Harvard, Ali concentrated in Romance Studies and lived in Strauss B and Lowell House.

Ali's website

]]>Today, Eileen talks to Ali Wenzke, best-selling author of The Art of Happy Moving: How to Declutter, Pack, and Start Over While Maintaining Your Sanity and Finding Happiness. Ali shares advice for organizing and decluttering our spaces, cultivating gratitude, and living a joyful life. Pro-tip: have fun and spend time with those you love. Ali’s enthusiasm is so infectious that she even inspired this lifelong night owl to commit to a morning routine! At Harvard, Ali concentrated in Romance Studies and lived in Strauss B and Lowell House.

Ali's website

]]>d0176161-c495-4fb7-a876-44f218e2198fThu, 27 Feb 2025 09:00:00 -070030:43falsefull114141Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Daniel ZahlerHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Daniel ZahlerDara talks to Daniel Zahler about his life since college, living on two coasts- NYC and Los Angeles and his connections with Harvard classmates. Daniel is well-known for the NYC in LA community he created, which has been featured in the New York Times and brings together New York transplants in Los Angeles. Daniel is also a healthcare consultant and Substack writer- subscribe! 

]]>Dara talks to Daniel Zahler about his life since college, living on two coasts- NYC and Los Angeles and his connections with Harvard classmates. Daniel is well-known for the NYC in LA community he created, which has been featured in the New York Times and brings together New York transplants in Los Angeles. Daniel is also a healthcare consultant and Substack writer- subscribe! 

]]>76e9437a-3f5a-48ed-bfb2-11488f2280a3Fri, 21 Feb 2025 09:00:00 -070027:33falsefull113131Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Jason StevensonHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Jason StevensonToday Dara talks to Jason Stevenson. Jason has been a huge help with this podcast series, writing the thoughtful questions that we send to interviewees before these conversations. Jason talks thoughtfully about happiness, leaving things better than we found them, FOP reunions, and learning from each other during midlife. Jason was in Thayer North and Leverett and concentrated in Social Studies.

Jason’s book: Outdoor Adventure Guides: Backpacking & Hiking

]]>Today Dara talks to Jason Stevenson. Jason has been a huge help with this podcast series, writing the thoughtful questions that we send to interviewees before these conversations. Jason talks thoughtfully about happiness, leaving things better than we found them, FOP reunions, and learning from each other during midlife. Jason was in Thayer North and Leverett and concentrated in Social Studies.

Jason’s book: Outdoor Adventure Guides: Backpacking & Hiking

]]>75d5d8c4-d48b-404e-aa76-ff3e7c842bf6Thu, 13 Feb 2025 09:00:00 -070025:19falsefull112121Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Sara BlanchardHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Sara BlanchardJoin us as Dara talks to Sara Blanchard, an author, podcast host, life coach, and facilitator who focuses on building community and connection through conscious conversation. Sara talks about meeting Misasha Suzuki Graham in college and their work together on the Dear White Women podcast and Dear White Women: Let’s Get (Un)comfortable Talking About Race book and how she got interested in positive psychology and why she advocates for a portfolio life. Sara lived in Greenough and Dunster and was an East Asian Studies concentrator. We are also deeply grateful to Sara for sharing her podcast wisdom and contacts as we got started with this project!

Sara’s website

Sara’s TEDx talk: How to Be Happier: Ask Better Questions

Harvard Gazette article on Sara & Misasha

]]>Join us as Dara talks to Sara Blanchard, an author, podcast host, life coach, and facilitator who focuses on building community and connection through conscious conversation. Sara talks about meeting Misasha Suzuki Graham in college and their work together on the Dear White Women podcast and Dear White Women: Let’s Get (Un)comfortable Talking About Race book and how she got interested in positive psychology and why she advocates for a portfolio life. Sara lived in Greenough and Dunster and was an East Asian Studies concentrator. We are also deeply grateful to Sara for sharing her podcast wisdom and contacts as we got started with this project!

Sara’s website

Sara’s TEDx talk: How to Be Happier: Ask Better Questions

Harvard Gazette article on Sara & Misasha

]]>b981e9ba-91d9-41aa-9660-fbd4c080e035Fri, 07 Feb 2025 09:00:00 -070023:01falsefull111111Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Nisha AgarwalHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Nisha AgarwalNisha is our final Chief Marshal candidate (vote by 1/31!). Nisha is a lawyer who pivoted into public service work focusing on health care and immigration rights. Nisha worked in the NYC Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs and was an advisor for the Health Department. She also started Cities for Action, a group of cities working together to support immigrant groups. Nisha is on the board of the Action Lab, Climate Museum, and Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden. Nisha lived in Pennypacker and Adams and was a Social Studies concentrator.

]]>Nisha is our final Chief Marshal candidate (vote by 1/31!). Nisha is a lawyer who pivoted into public service work focusing on health care and immigration rights. Nisha worked in the NYC Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs and was an advisor for the Health Department. She also started Cities for Action, a group of cities working together to support immigrant groups. Nisha is on the board of the Action Lab, Climate Museum, and Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden. Nisha lived in Pennypacker and Adams and was a Social Studies concentrator.

]]>eb4ba6a2-9f26-4986-9fca-6bb938df0571Tue, 28 Jan 2025 09:00:00 -070028:44falsefull110101Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Elie MystalHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Elie MystalWe are starting to wrap up our Chief Marshal candidates with today’s interview with Elie Mystal. Elie is a lawyer, writer, and political commentator who focuses on the Supreme Court. Join Dara & Elie for a wide-ranging conversation from how he met his wife the first week of school, to a formative meeting with Justice Scalia as a kid, to the impact a phenomenal Teaching Fellow can have on your life. Elie is a justice correspondent at The Nation, and is the author of two books Allow Me to Retort: A Black Guy’s Guide to the Constitution and the forthcoming Bad Law: Ten Popular Laws that are Ruining America. Hopefully, we can host an online book talk with Elie this spring or look for him on his book tour! Elie also has his own podcast called Contempt of Court- listen here.

Elie lived in Canaday G and Cabot and was a government concentrator.

]]>We are starting to wrap up our Chief Marshal candidates with today’s interview with Elie Mystal. Elie is a lawyer, writer, and political commentator who focuses on the Supreme Court. Join Dara & Elie for a wide-ranging conversation from how he met his wife the first week of school, to a formative meeting with Justice Scalia as a kid, to the impact a phenomenal Teaching Fellow can have on your life. Elie is a justice correspondent at The Nation, and is the author of two books Allow Me to Retort: A Black Guy’s Guide to the Constitution and the forthcoming Bad Law: Ten Popular Laws that are Ruining America. Hopefully, we can host an online book talk with Elie this spring or look for him on his book tour! Elie also has his own podcast called Contempt of Court- listen here.

Elie lived in Canaday G and Cabot and was a government concentrator.

]]>a2401360-9f01-46fe-a5fd-5f7388cb2628Sun, 26 Jan 2025 09:00:00 -070042:30falsefull1991Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Dave FahrentholdHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Dave FahrentholdToday Dara talks with Pulitzer Prize winning journalist and Chief Marshal candidate, Dave Fahrenthold. Dave worked as a journalist for The Washington Post for 22 years before transitioning to The New York Times. Before all that, he wrote for The Crimson.  Dave has two books, one on the Chesapeake, and Uncovering Trump: The Truth Behind Donald Trump’s Charitable Giving. Dave shares some of his favorite stories he’s reported on over the years and how he met his wife in college.

]]>Today Dara talks with Pulitzer Prize winning journalist and Chief Marshal candidate, Dave Fahrenthold. Dave worked as a journalist for The Washington Post for 22 years before transitioning to The New York Times. Before all that, he wrote for The Crimson.  Dave has two books, one on the Chesapeake, and Uncovering Trump: The Truth Behind Donald Trump’s Charitable Giving. Dave shares some of his favorite stories he’s reported on over the years and how he met his wife in college.

]]>954d1743-5eed-4f8e-8f75-9d0648cd7371Fri, 24 Jan 2025 09:00:00 -070040:48falsefull1881Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Sameera FaziliHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Sameera FaziliDara talks to Sameera Fazili, who is not only a Chief Marshal candidate, but was also one of our Class Marshals senior year. Sameera has helped the world in so many ways, from serving in multiple presidential administrations to working for the Federal Bank of Atlanta. Sameera not only saved Christmas during COVID when she was the Deputy Director of the National Economic Council (NEC) and the leader of the White House’s Supply Chain Disruptions task force, but she helped stabilize our economy during the 2008 financial crisis and COVID. 


]]>Dara talks to Sameera Fazili, who is not only a Chief Marshal candidate, but was also one of our Class Marshals senior year. Sameera has helped the world in so many ways, from serving in multiple presidential administrations to working for the Federal Bank of Atlanta. Sameera not only saved Christmas during COVID when she was the Deputy Director of the National Economic Council (NEC) and the leader of the White House’s Supply Chain Disruptions task force, but she helped stabilize our economy during the 2008 financial crisis and COVID. 


]]>1c60c51d-6731-4388-966a-45e43bc8dda3Wed, 22 Jan 2025 11:30:00 -070037:19falsefull1771Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Justin KrebsHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Justin KrebsIn today’s episode, Dara talks to Justin Krebs in another unedited episode about his journey from our Class Marshal to Chief Marshal candidate. Justin has fused his loves of comedy, politics, and community in numerous ways, and often alongside other classmates. Learn about The Tank, Living Liberally and his multiple books: Blue in a Red State and 538 Ways to Live, Work, and Play Like a Liberal. Justin lived in Thayer and Mather and concentrated in American History and Literature.

]]>In today’s episode, Dara talks to Justin Krebs in another unedited episode about his journey from our Class Marshal to Chief Marshal candidate. Justin has fused his loves of comedy, politics, and community in numerous ways, and often alongside other classmates. Learn about The Tank, Living Liberally and his multiple books: Blue in a Red State and 538 Ways to Live, Work, and Play Like a Liberal. Justin lived in Thayer and Mather and concentrated in American History and Literature.

]]>28a02e64-9776-447c-86e9-35f2535d067cMon, 20 Jan 2025 11:00:00 -070041:27falsefull1661Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Jay ChenHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Jay ChenDara talks to Jay Chen, a Chief Marshal candidate, in this unedited episode (thanks for understanding!). Jay has had a wide ranging career, from joining a school board not long after college, to joining the Navy, which he is still in, to being a trustee for Mt. San Antonio Community College (Mt. SAC). Jay discusses being on The Daily Show, but, unfortunately, we weren’t able to find it online. Learn more about Jay on his campaign website.

]]>Dara talks to Jay Chen, a Chief Marshal candidate, in this unedited episode (thanks for understanding!). Jay has had a wide ranging career, from joining a school board not long after college, to joining the Navy, which he is still in, to being a trustee for Mt. San Antonio Community College (Mt. SAC). Jay discusses being on The Daily Show, but, unfortunately, we weren’t able to find it online. Learn more about Jay on his campaign website.

]]>3f739f35-689b-4752-b1a8-7283c1f16d78Sun, 19 Jan 2025 09:00:00 -070034:35falsefull1551Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Latonya WrightHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Latonya WrightLatonya Wright is the queen of the performing arts industry in her hometown of Winston-Salem. She talks to Dara about a range of topics- from going back to Harvard EVERY year to play the cymbals (see the feature article about her from the Harvard Gazette) at Commencement, to teaching Dara what chamber music is, to how she found out about Harvard in 2nd grade and decided she might want to go. Latonya lived in Hollis North and Eliot House and was an English and American Literature Language concentrator. 


]]>Latonya Wright is the queen of the performing arts industry in her hometown of Winston-Salem. She talks to Dara about a range of topics- from going back to Harvard EVERY year to play the cymbals (see the feature article about her from the Harvard Gazette) at Commencement, to teaching Dara what chamber music is, to how she found out about Harvard in 2nd grade and decided she might want to go. Latonya lived in Hollis North and Eliot House and was an English and American Literature Language concentrator. 


]]>85b96736-4b5d-4567-9343-c6ea1d49fecfSat, 18 Jan 2025 09:00:00 -070040:53falsefull1441Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Winnie LiHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Winnie LiEileen interviews Chief Marshal candidate Winnie Li in this new episode. Winnie Li is an author and activist who recently received her PhD in Media and Communications from the London School of Economics on emotional labor and sexual violence survivors in the media. In this inspiring conversation, Winnie reflects upon how the experience of rape in 2008 changed the trajectory of her life, and ultimately fueled her writing and activism. Winnie is the founder of Clear Lines, the UK's first festival addressing sexual assault and consent through the arts. She has published two novels, Dark Chapter and Complicit, and her third book, What We Left Unsaid, will be published this summer. At Harvard, Winnie Li lived in Hurlbut and Eliot House and was a Folklore and Mythology Concentrator, with a focus on Celtic Languages and Literature. 


Pre-order Winnie’s upcoming book, What We Left Unsaid

]]>Eileen interviews Chief Marshal candidate Winnie Li in this new episode. Winnie Li is an author and activist who recently received her PhD in Media and Communications from the London School of Economics on emotional labor and sexual violence survivors in the media. In this inspiring conversation, Winnie reflects upon how the experience of rape in 2008 changed the trajectory of her life, and ultimately fueled her writing and activism. Winnie is the founder of Clear Lines, the UK's first festival addressing sexual assault and consent through the arts. She has published two novels, Dark Chapter and Complicit, and her third book, What We Left Unsaid, will be published this summer. At Harvard, Winnie Li lived in Hurlbut and Eliot House and was a Folklore and Mythology Concentrator, with a focus on Celtic Languages and Literature. 


Pre-order Winnie’s upcoming book, What We Left Unsaid

]]>89f3758b-a14a-43d5-b595-808a30f2b37eThu, 16 Jan 2025 09:00:00 -070001:01:31falsefull1331Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Julie Kalos PenznerHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Julie Kalos PenznerHi classmates! This is Eileen and today I’m interviewing psychiatrist and professor Julie (formerly Kalos) Penzner, who is every bit as warm and thoughtful as when we were neighbors in Holworthy Middle. Enjoy her insights on everything from parenting and the power of teaching, to the unsurpassed experience that is a New York bagel. Julie practices acute care psychiatry at Duke University Hospital and Duke Regional Hospital in Durham, NC. She also trains future physicians as an Associate Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences and Vice Chair for Education in Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Duke University Medical School. Julie lived in Holworthy and Eliot and was a psychology and biology (mind, brain, behavior track) concentrator. 

Julie’s opinion piece in the NYTimes, “Parenthood and the Problem of Objectivity”

]]>Hi classmates! This is Eileen and today I’m interviewing psychiatrist and professor Julie (formerly Kalos) Penzner, who is every bit as warm and thoughtful as when we were neighbors in Holworthy Middle. Enjoy her insights on everything from parenting and the power of teaching, to the unsurpassed experience that is a New York bagel. Julie practices acute care psychiatry at Duke University Hospital and Duke Regional Hospital in Durham, NC. She also trains future physicians as an Associate Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences and Vice Chair for Education in Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Duke University Medical School. Julie lived in Holworthy and Eliot and was a psychology and biology (mind, brain, behavior track) concentrator. 

Julie’s opinion piece in the NYTimes, “Parenthood and the Problem of Objectivity”

]]>dc30346c-1534-4084-9122-cc5e0e599a84Mon, 13 Jan 2025 09:00:00 -070026:51falsefull1221Harvard College 2000 Podcast: Chris NowinskiHarvard College 2000 Podcast: Chris NowinskiWe are thrilled to talk to Chris Nowinski for our inaugural episode. Chris was my blockmate in Mather House, and never would I have predicted the incredible journey he would have over the past 25 years. From the Harvard football team, to the wrestling show Tough Enough, to a PhD in behavioral neuroscience and now as the CEO and co-founder of the Concussion Legacy Foundation, Chris has turned his personal experiences into hope for others. Chris is also the author of the book Head Games. Chris lived in Wigglesworth and Mather and was a sociology concentrator.


]]>We are thrilled to talk to Chris Nowinski for our inaugural episode. Chris was my blockmate in Mather House, and never would I have predicted the incredible journey he would have over the past 25 years. From the Harvard football team, to the wrestling show Tough Enough, to a PhD in behavioral neuroscience and now as the CEO and co-founder of the Concussion Legacy Foundation, Chris has turned his personal experiences into hope for others. Chris is also the author of the book Head Games. Chris lived in Wigglesworth and Mather and was a sociology concentrator.


]]>6e3c2fb6-ac53-44a6-a717-6d71ef117c51Thu, 09 Jan 2025 09:00:00 -070020:05falsefull1111Everyone has a story- the Harvard College 2000 podcast launchesEveryone has a story- the Harvard College 2000 podcast launchesWelcome, Harvard Class of 2000! In the run-up to our 25th reunion, we’ve been thinking about you, our classmates. We wanted to hear what you’ve been up to, and knew others would, too — so we decided to launch a podcast. 

What's been going on since 2000? What are some of your favorite or funniest Harvard memories? What classes or activities impacted you most? Join us as we talk to as many classmates as possible — you included! — in our very own “audio Red Book.” 

We’d love to interview you. Send us an email at harvard2000podcast@gmail.com. 

Everyone has a story...


]]>Welcome, Harvard Class of 2000! In the run-up to our 25th reunion, we’ve been thinking about you, our classmates. We wanted to hear what you’ve been up to, and knew others would, too — so we decided to launch a podcast. 

What's been going on since 2000? What are some of your favorite or funniest Harvard memories? What classes or activities impacted you most? Join us as we talk to as many classmates as possible — you included! — in our very own “audio Red Book.” 

We’d love to interview you. Send us an email at harvard2000podcast@gmail.com. 

Everyone has a story...


]]>69de0521-6274-4136-9a13-88221c027ca4Wed, 01 Jan 2025 09:00:00 -070004:00falsefull