In the first week of October 25 years ago, the Sydney Olympics closed, marking the last time Americans thought about Australia; a revolution finally overthrew Yugoslavia’s Slobodan Milošević after years of him being just the worst; and Laurie Pasteryak kicked off the second month of her senior year at the Norwich Free Academy.

In this episode, we learn how a lifetime of saying “Yes” to every adventure and job offer led to Laurie’s diverse experiences, including traveling to the remotest destination of any of our guests. We also hear how Laurie became enamored by local history, which included involvement with NFA’s hallowed Slater Museum. Listen to find out what our museum expert thinks is “the best museum in the country,” how she does in Indiana Jones trivia, and which NFA coach once yelled at his players, “Pain is weakness leaving the body!” And if you listen very carefully, you can hear Ian wince when Laurie launches a full assault against Dead White Guy History. Her name is Laurie Pasteryak, and she’s a member of the NFA Class of 2001.