In this episode of Conversations @ the Salt Line, host Wesley Dixon chats with Eddie Gamarra '94 and Damon Ross '94, who were the keynote speakers for the 2026 Sophomore Career Connections. Dixon engages Gamarra and Ross in a conversation about their careers as entertainment executives and producers of animated films, specifically highlighting projects such as The Bad Guys and Stargirl. Dixon also delves into a conversation about friendship as creative technology, exploring how Gamarra and Ross's deep personal friendship animated their creative pursuits.

In this episode of Conversations @ the Salt Line, host Wesley Dixon sits down with Vassar alum Jonathan Karl '90, chief Washington correspondent for ABC News, co-anchor of This Week with George Stephanopoulos, and author. Dixon and Karl discuss "Retribution," Karl's latest book chronicling the 2024 Presidential campaign, which he calls the most consequential election of his lifetime, and the access he gained to an extraordinary cast of current political figures while reporting on a moment that could reshape American democracy. Karl also reflects on his time at Vassar and the values that shaped his career in political journalism, before diving into the challenges of covering politics in an era defined by polarization, misinformation, and mounting pressure on the press.

In this episode of Conversations @ the Salt Line, host Wesley Dixon chats with Elisa Strauss '98, founder, CEO, and owner of Confetti Cakes. Wes and Elisa delve into her unconventional career path, tracing her journey from a liberal arts education in art history and studio art at Vassar to gaining professional experience in fashion at Ralph Lauren. Their conversation explores the complex relationship between artistic passion and the practical realities of running a business, examining how she defined her work as "practical art." Elisa also shares her five crucial lessons for entrepreneurs, emphasizing themes like finding a mentor, lowering overhead costs, and harnessing adaptability.

Recorded on May 8, 2025