Lily Cochrane
📍Winston-Salem, NC | Builder of buildings, teams, and better ways to work.
📝 Editor’s Note | Rob Belk
This past weekend, I made a great decision.
Instead of watching the Panthers get blown out, I went to Monster Trucks live with my four-year-old, Johnny.
Monster Trucks live satisfied three passions: (1) spending time with my family (2) going to live events that bring people together and (3) geeking out on a good business model (I know, nerd alert).
Time with my family: Johnny couldn’t have been more excited. We went with his best friend from school. They were in heaven as they ate way too much popcorn and were in a constant state of giggling or yelling. Oh, and my son told me, “Dad, I love you as big as a monster truck.” Worth every penny.
Live events: I’ve always loved big sporting events that bring people together. Its relaxing to go to one where I don’t care about the winner. I also have many special memories of big sporting events with my dad. Monster Trucks brings together people from all walks of life, and everyone is in a good mood.
Business model: Wow. Hats off to whoever at Mattel came up with the idea to partner on the live Monster Trucks show. The line to buy merch at the end of the show was a mob scene. We just had to have the show’s special edition Skelesaurus for $15.
Real talk, the Motocross riders are the coolest part of the show….
Without further ado…
Why Lily?
Lily came recommended by her future sister-in-law, Bess DuBose, who mentioned how impressive she is; career-driven with interesting passions. I got to meet Lily in person a few weeks ago and I had the same impression.
Lily’s Self-Description
Adventure seeker: passport, outdoors, great meal, (fat) glass of wine.
Always laughing - usually at my own (bad) jokes.
Big on big questions.
WWII docs > reality TV.
Time with family/friends >>
Living somewhere between drive and joy, purpose and spontaneity!
Lily’s 6 Recommendations
Written in her own words…
1. D-Day: The Tide Turns
This summer, my fiancé and I wrapped up an epic trip (more details below!), by landing in Normandy on the anniversary of D-Day (intentionally). We are both major history nerds and listened to this incredible 12-episode podcast on the plane and during our drive across the French countryside. This podcast has it all- gripping narration, expert historical insight, and moving first-hand accounts from veterans and their families. Bonus points if you listen before going to Normandy and retrace the events in real life (bucket-list worthy, IMO).
2. 50-Desires List from Nancy Levin
I was introduced to this exercise through my executive coach (shoutout Betsy Fleming at Cressence) and it's been a game-changer. Simple, powerful, surprisingly clarifying... and kind of hard?? I loved the permission to be "selfish" and unfiltered.
My Vice: late-afternoon coffee. I should probably switch to decaf, but... YOLO?
3. Ayoh! by Molly Baz
I love a summer sandwich because tomato season is *chef's kiss* and this is the secret ingredient to take any sandwich from boring to bomb. I am drooling while writing this right now. I ordered all of the flavors for my family's upcoming beach trip because a beach sandwich is the best sandwich.
4. The Mary Classic Shirtdress by Frank and Eileen
And frankly, (pun definitely intended), anything from Frank and Eileen. Their pieces are effortlessly cute, transition easily from day to night or office to outing, and the fabric is breezy enough to survive the NC heat with dignity.
5. Not-Your-Typical Europe Trip
As mentioned in my podcast rec, my fiancé and I took an unforgettable two-week trip to Europe earlier this summer to celebrate his MBA graduation. We went to Norway, Denmark and France. These three countries were the perfect balance of movement (hiking, biking), meaning (history, art, architecture), and indulgence (food, wine, vintage shopping). I have the full itinerary (yes, there's a doc) - happy to share if anyone is planning something similar.
Two favorites from the trip:
We stumbled upon this place late in the evening and sat in the Gastro Bar, which is a must. It is separate from the upstairs Michelin guide restaurant, but the food comes from the same kitchen🙂
This really was astonishing to see in person. The podcast outlines the Army Rangers’ climb up the cliffs, but to see the artillery and bunkers waiting for them at the top giving Nazi Germany every advantage in the world, it is almost unfathomable to think the Allies were able to take this position. Seeing the unimaginable feats across the Normandy coastline, and then the sobering expanse of the American cemetery, moved us both to tears.
6. De'Longhi Magnifica Evo
I love my coffee maker!! I purchased as a Prime Week deal. And, yes, it is stupid expensive. But it actually gets me out of bed and excited for the day even at the wee hours (cough: 5:30am). Girl math would say price per use = basically free if the alternative is buying lattes forever. In the words of Marie Kondo, it *sparks joy*.
Plug | WFU Center for Private Business
I am in a Forum group through the Center. It's essentially a peer group that holds you accountable to being (and becoming) the best version of you (at work and in life). I have met the most incredible people through the CPB. The membership consists of the kinds of leaders and businesses that make North Carolina the best state in the country.
Want to get in touch with Lily? Email her at cochrane.lily@gmail.com
P.S. from Rambull — My wife and I recently watched Black Bag. It’s a spy drama directed by Steven Soderbergh. Michael Fassbender and Cate Blanchett headline a great cast in a drama about married intelligence agents facing the ultimate loyatly test. Its more slow-burn psychological thriller than action packed. It is a great date-night pick. You can rent it or stream it on Paramount+. (h/t Conor Berigan)
Going to immediately do this 50 desires exercise! Also - Rob, great suggestion on the monster truck rally. I worked at one of these many many years ago, thinking I wouldn't like it, but the energy and excitement was contagious, particularly from the kids! Wonderful reminder.