Monthly Archives: April 2025
Nate Smith Missed His Exit But Found His Way
Nate Smith’s post-Amherst journey literally reads like an epic. At the age of 26, he got in his car after work one day at the school where he had been teaching and kept on driving, never to return to the job. Instead, he embarked on a life-changing, sometimes harrowing road trip all the way from Maryland to Central America, living out of his car and taking odd jobs to survive.
His journey reached a turning point when he had to sell his car and found himself homeless in Panama. With the help of the US Embassy, Nate made his way back home, bringing with him invaluable lessons about privilege and the importance of giving back.
Today, Nate is married with two kids, and he has returned to teaching with a passion. He also hasn’t lost his wanderlust; Nate works as an eighth-grade mathematics teacher in Vietnam.
Join Nate and me as we delve into the memorable moments of Nate’s life, his thoughts on humankind, and the lessons he has learned along the way. His experience is a testament to the strength of family, the importance of self-reflection, and the enduring impact of a supportive community.
Plus, learn whom Nate wants me to interview next.
You can email Nate at nathansmith.ghana@gmail.com.
Brian Shactman Finds His Voice – And Amplifies Voices All Over Connecticut And Beyond
Brian Schactman in many ways has become the voice of Connecticut. As a co-host of a morning radio talk show, he travels the state to meet residents of interest and explore the topics that animate the 169 towns and cities that call Connecticut home. Having listened to his stuff, I can tell you that he’s awfully good at what he does. Thankfully, streaming makes it possible for anyone to listen to him, so I’ll include a link to do just that in the notes below.
Our candid conversation covers his journey from ESPN, through CNBC, MSNBC, and NBC Boston, to his current role at WTIC 1080 AM in Hartford. In the process, Brian helped me imagine a life I might have had if I had stuck with broadcast journalism as a career for myself.
Plus, tune in to hear whom from the Amherst Class of 1994 Brian wants me to interview next.
You can contact Brian via email (bshactman@gmail.com) and find him X, Instagram, and Facebook. Download the Audacy app by following this link so you can listen to his morning show, “Mornings with Ray and Brian.”
Matt Collins' Blog 