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My dad is happily retired and living in Amherst, Massachusetts with my mom.

He goes by the nickname “Sherm,” and in case you ever forget his name, he’ll ask you to “think of Sherman tank.”

It's funny -- does he look anything like a tank?



Dad has a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering and a master's degree and Ph.D. in computer science. He worked his entire career at IBM.

I also have a bachelor's degree in computer science, which was partly inspired by him.

Sherm is a hobbyist photographer who’s good enough at his craft to win photo club awards. 

Recently, Dad told me that he religiously listens to “The Daily,” a podcast from The New York Times. I thought I'd ask him a few questions and share his answers with you.

Marketers, in a rush to understand Gen Z and millennials, think less about the generation who raised us.

Here’s a Q&A featuring Sherman tank.

How did you discover “The Daily” podcast?

It was by chance. After my recent eye surgery, it was hard for me to read.

After Googling for podcasts, I found it.

What do you like about it?

It’s very informative and educational for me. I don't like to read (unless I need to), but I like to listen.

The Daily is well-done in content and presentations. Most interviewees are top-notch NYT reporters. 

Each podcast is based on facts and contains lots of background info. Very often, Michael Barbaro (@mikiebarb) paraphrases some major points of their conversations, such that I can have some takeaways.

How do you listen to it?

Usually on my iPad (with Bluetooth), using my hearing aid.

What else do you listen to?

Audiobooks, such as Trevor Noah's (@Trevornoah) "Born a Crime," suggested by your sister. I also read some Chinese language audiobooks.

During “shelter in place,” what are you doing more of and less of?

I’m using my iPad more often, listening more to the morning news on CBS.

I also watch the CBS Evening News on DVR, routing the audio output to my hearing aids.

I also watch Erin Burnett’s (@ErinBurnett) show on CNN, OutFront.

I’ve been organizing my photos (hard copies and digital versions) and like to do two miles of walking daily.

Doing less? Shopping at local stores.

I say the words “fantastic customer experience.” What’s the first brand that comes to mind?

The digital version of New York Times, which I have a subscription for two years. And Time Magazine in digital. I usually read Time on my iPad, which allows me to read almost any issue.

So we’re friends on Facebook.

I don’t use it often. Just occasionally check on some new posts from my friends. And I seldom post my stories, as I don't like to write.

Thanks for your time, Dad!