Join us at QED for an unforgettable night of true, personal stories about the moments when science collides with urgency and there’s no time to wait. Four storytellers share what happens when a decision, a discovery, or a diagnosis can’t be put off — and the stakes are suddenly very real.
From critical turning points in research and medicine to fieldwork gone sideways and life paths that hinge on a single choice, these stories explore what it means to act under pressure, trust your instincts, and move forward without guarantees. They’re about risk, responsibility, and the strange clarity that can come when the clock is ticking.
Funny, intense, and deeply human, this The Story Collider show is a reminder that in science — and in life — the most important moments don’t always come with a countdown… but sometimes, they absolutely do.
Hosted by Gastor Almonte and Tracey Segarra.
Doors at 7 pm. Show starts at 7:30 pm ET.
Stories By:
Pearl Douglas’s journey began on the island of Dominica and led her to Brooklyn, where at 54, she balances a thriving NYC-based CPA firm with a life rich in family and purpose. Married for 31 years, her family spans the globe—a daughter in graduate school at Stanford, a son engaged in Connecticut, and a stepson in Japan with his wife and son, Pearl’s cherished grandson. She travels often, cooking Caribbean dishes that keep her connected to her island roots. As a CPA and MBA, Pearl helps small business owners achieve financial health and realize their dreams. She extends this commitment to community service as a Regent of the University of Hartford, and Chair of the Women’s Advancement Initiative, where she mentors the next generation of women leaders.
Torrey Huggins is a New York based comedian and actor, originally from Virginia. Torrey’s southern roots and questionable decision-making help fuel his comedy. After getting his start in stand up comedy in 2017 he’s been featured in many comedy festivals and streaming platforms such as Amazon Prime and Netflix.
Jerry Pelan: Born 11/10/59 in Brooklyn NY to Irish Parents John and Shiela Pelan. I am an identical twin and one of 8 children. Moved to New Hyde Park in 1967. Got married in 1984 to Kathy Bozzi and we had 3 children together. I suffered with the disease of Addiction through out my late teens and twenty’s. At the age of 29 my despair and hopelessness brought me to such a dark place that the only solution that made sense was to take my own life. In late February of 1989 I I stabbed myself in the chest hoping to end my life and spare my wife and 14 month old daughter of a life filled with suffering as I saw no end to the Alcoholic Life that consumed me. God intervened and new way of life started. We were able to have two more children and raised them in a loving home free of the horrors that an Active Alcoholic Father would have shaped them.