This essay was developed from a talk delivered during the Public Good Conference at the University of Denver (October 2008). The theme of the conference was "Making Public Good Work." Conference speakers were asked to address questions about how we make public good work in both teaching and research. In particular, what inspires us to do this work, and what are the challenges and benefits of engaged scholarship? Drawing on both personal and professional experiences, this practice story addresses benefits of doing (and costs of "not" doing) public good work. (Contains 1 endnote.)