The Lynchburg Economic Development Association is proud to be a sponsor of RadioLab’s Jad Abumrad. He will appear at the Academy Center of the Arts on April 9 to present his one man show “Gut Churn”. This event will kick off a new speaker series where where Lynchburg professionals can share their stories, inspirations, and experience. Local NPR listeners, podcast fans, aspiring entrepreneurs and business owners will enjoy Abumrad’s presentation.
A Lynchburg Innovation Event
Lynchburg Innovation Events aim to engage citizens in economic development by bringing together art, culture, and business through providing a platform to creatively solve community problems. As part of our economic development initiatives, Opportunity Lynchburg seeks to invest in the workforce that exists in Lynchburg. By sponsoring this event, we hope to nurture the talent that exists here, and provide them with the tools needed to further their professional development.
About Jad Abumrad
Jad Abumrad created and launched the popular podcast RadioLab in 2005. Today, RadioLab is broadcast on 524 stations across the nation and downloaded more than 9 million times a month as a podcast. Most days, RadioLab is the 2nd most popular podcast, just behind This American Life. During this journey, Abumrad has faced many ups and downs negotiating in the business world, which inspired his creation of the show he is bringing to the Academy.
“Gut Churn”
Abumrad describes “Gut Churn” as the radical uncertainty that is a core part of any creative process that really pushes the envelope. Gut Churn happens when you enter unknown territory and have to navigate without a map. During the “Gut Churn” talk, Abumrad pulls from experiences in his life and the creation of RadioLab to illustrate the benefits of negative feedback. He also points out how we can look out for “pointing arrows” that can help guide our work, even when it hurts. The show is a live version of what RadioLab does week after week, bringing technology, arts, and culture together to tell a story.
Show Information and Ticket Options
The Academy has a ticket option for everyone. Those with a student ID can purchase a discounted ticket for $18, senior tickets are $28, and regular admission is $35. Opportunity Lynchburg is sponsoring a limited availability VIP Meet and Greet experience before the show, beginning at 6 P.M. VIP Tickets are $100.
The show is April 8 at 7:30 P.M., and will take place in the Academy’s Warehouse theater. This can be accessed from the entrance found between 5th and 6th and Commerce Street. Patrons are encouraged to park in the Pacific Life lot, which is located next door to the theater. Parking in this lot is free.