We recently connected with David Robkin and have shared our conversation below.
David, so great to be with you and I think a lot of folks are going to benefit from hearing your story and lessons and wisdom. Imposter Syndrome is something that we know how words to describe, but it’s something that has held people back forever and so we’re really interested to hear about your story and how you overcame imposter syndrome.
I didn’t. I am an imposter. I am playing in a field of highly trained experts with years of hard-won knowledge whereas I am learning as I go along using extrapolation, adaptability and general knowledge to infer expertise where little exists. I came to terms with imposter syndrome by accepting that everyone starts from zero and if I wait until I feel like an expert in any field before I begin a project I will never get started. Consequently I have decided that “imposter syndrome” is a temporary condition that I can get past with a little effort at education and practice.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I run Wingwalker Brewing, an independent craft micro-brewery in Monrovia. We offer hand-crafted beer and pizza with a slight twist. Our menu includes a variety of styles and (hopefully) something to please any palette. We also offer a safe haven for music and comedy performances, people and dogs of all persuasions, and daredevils of all strips in our taproom.
My personal focus right now is making sure that we can continue to offer our unique community space going forward. Our goal is to create a rejuvenating third space for all communities and people in the area.
The “third space” is an idea that has lost traction in recent years because of the dramatic growth in stay at home activities. As we cycle through these trends I think it is important to remember that we are social beings and not to forget that community spaces offer more than simply food and beverages. This is the brand/feeling/vibe/scene I want to create.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
First, do not be afraid of failure. Failure is your best and most comprehensive teacher. Accept that you will fail at something and that you will have to recover and move ahead from that failure.
Second, do not look at high school or college as “trade schools.” There are lots of trade schools ranging from building trades, longshore trades, law school, medical school. business school. police academies, music conservatories, etc. General education is there to give you an understanding of the fundamentals of many fields including human history, logic, awareness, intellectual curiosity, and human nature. Those are the building blocks of experience and experience is the core of expertise.
Third, confront your fears directly. This is hard, painful and terrifying emotional and intellectual work. It is worth it.
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
I am looking for partners who want to create the new community spaces. I am looking for people who are not afraid of risk and daring enough to challenge conventional assumptions to make a new town square for a modern urban space. They can connect through our website and social media. I am looking for artists and entrepreneurs who are willing to move beyond disruption innovation into creation innovation.
I am looking for specific collaborations creating beers, foods, venues, and environments.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.wingwalkerbrewing.com
- Instagram: @wingwalkerbrewing
- Facebook: @wingwalkerbrewing
- Twitter: @wingwalkerbeer
- Yelp: Wingwalker Brewing
Image Credits
Contemporary photos by Heidi Marie Photography. Historical photo unknown.
