Mike Falzone had two near-death experiences within a two week period, during which he was also fired from his job because of his illness. On the ride home from the hospital, he vowed that he would never work for anyone else, ever again. Since that day, Mike has written a best-selling book, toured nationally as a musician and has launched himself as a YouTube star, with over 20 million video views. Mike discusses how he found the intersection between what he loves to do (music and comedy) and things he can do to make money. His story is an inspiration to anyone wondering how they can leverage their passions into a career. Recorded on 02/21/2017.

From self-described army brat to a renowned physician and scientist, Dr. Kirsten Bibbins-Domingo's career success is due in part to her many interests and her ability to pursue a job in which she could thrive. Her thoughts apply to anyone committed to hard work and a balanced life, no matter the field. In this conversation with Dr. Robert Wachter, Chair of the UCSF Department of Medicine, we learn how she is helping to shape healthcare through her work both at UCSF and as the immediate past-chair of the US Preventive Services Task Force, which makes evidence-based recommendations about services such as screenings, counseling services, and preventive medications.

It's not often that the California State Treasurer makes national news, but that's exactly what happened when John Chiang suspended ties with Wells Fargo last year over the bank's creation of some two million fraudulent accounts. With its $75 billion portfolio, Chiang describes how California sets the example for holding partners to high ethical standards and for public investing in policies that lead to better lives for its residents, reductions in income inequality, and effective responses to climate change. Chiang is the 2017 speaker for Michael Nacht Distinguished Lecture in Politics and Public Policy presented by the Goldman School of Public Policy and the Berkeley Forum at UC Berkeley. Recorded on 09/18/2017.