Uncle Marv kicks off the episode by explaining the significance of NAJAC and why he's dedicating several episodes to this topic. He emphasizes the deep connections formed during the conference and how they've lasted for decades.
Rob shares his NAJAC journey, starting in 1970 as a delegate and evolving into various staff roles. He recounts the origins of the popular dance events, from improvised basement parties to full-scale productions at the tennis courts and swimming pool.
The interview highlights the inexplicable bond between NAJAC attendees, describing it as a connection deeper than those formed in high school or college. Rob emphasizes the difficulty in explaining this unique camaraderie to those who haven't experienced it. Rob discusses the logistical challenges of organizing NAJAC, comparing it to modern tech conferences and marveling at how they managed without today's technology. He also touches on the recent reunions, including the 2019 event that drew over 100 attendees.
The episode concludes with Rob reflecting on the importance of these reunions and the bittersweet realization that the group isn't getting any younger, emphasizing the need to gather more frequently.
Links:
- National Junior Achievement Conference Photo, Bloomington 1993 (I'm at the top left): https://tinyurl.com/mvvmtc3y
- Junior Achievement USA: https://jausa.ja.org/
- Archive of NAJAC Pictures at Indiana University: https://tinyurl.com/3h5v8pfv
=== Show and Contact Information
Host: Marvin Bee (marvin@unclemarv.com)
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mb.unclemarv/
Twitter: @iamunclemarv
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marvinbee/
Popular Podcasts
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com