9/20 Jason Cohen: The Redemption Project

The Redemption Project is a CNN series that focuses on the idea of restorative justice as a way for victims and offenders to heal. Jason Cohen was one of the producers. He gave some advice and answered some questions at the end. 

Five takeaways: 

1. Work with the community and try to understand them
2. Get people who are passionate about the project. Van Jones, the host, is passionate about criminal reform. 
3. Be as unobtrusive as possible when filming the process. 
4. Editing can be tough, but choose to keep the moments that make the story unique. 
5. Use an isolated story to show a greater theme. This particular episode was centered around addiction and forgiveness.  

9/20 Jason Gay: Wisconsin Must Beat Michigan 

Gay gave a funny speech about why Wisconsin beating Michigan is the most important event ever! He was super entertaining and gave some great answers during Q&A time. 

Five takeaways: 

1. Your career may take many different paths and that’s okay. Gay started at a restaurant and an advertising guy then worked his way over to sports writing. 
2. Do not get too stuck on always writing the newest news because the cycle moves so quickly. 
3. Love what you do and you will be energized. 
4. Have your own voice. Gay was very humorous and a bit self-deprecating, which is similar to his unique writing style. 
5. Break the rules a bit to get good stories. One time Gay brought a cat mug into an NBA event and got in trouble, but it made for a great story.