Park Bench Perspectives is a conversation-driven podcast about making sense of the world without pretending to have all the answers. Hosted by Carlos Figueroa and Michael Hammer, two childhood friends who grew up in St Louis Park, MN =.
Each episode feels like sitting down on a park bench—no scripts, no hot takes for the sake of it—just thoughtful discussion, honest questions, and a willingness to challenge assumptions.
It’s not about being right. It’s about thinking better.
Carlos Figueroa is a lawyer and writer whose work explores institutions, uncertainty, and the stories we tell to make sense of both. He publishes Systems Under Pressure on Substack and will release his debut novel, The Ghost of Lake Osakis, in May 2026.
Michael Hammer is a lifelong St. Louis Park native and entrepreneur who’s built his career by doing, not theorizing. From his early days in the bar business to running a hands-on construction and handyman service, Michael understands what it takes to show up, solve problems, and get things done. Today, he also helps people stay on their feet—literally—through his work with FootPainAuthority.com. As co-host of Park Bench Perspectives, Michael brings a practical, real-world lens shaped by decades of experience, hustle, and straight talk.