Matthew Barr interviewed Mack and Ellen Liverman for the Wild Caught project. Mack Liverman is a lifelong fisherman who has been involved in the commercial fishing industry for over four decades. Ellen Liverman, his wife, has supported the family through various challenges associated with the fishing lifestyle. Together, they have raised two daughters.

In this interview, Mack and Ellen discuss raising a family while maintaining a fishing business. Ellen recounts the unique challenges of their lifestyle, such as managing with limited resources and ensuring their children had the essentials. She shares how their daughters, Christine and Terry, grew up understanding and accepting the family's circumstances, contributing to the family business from a young age. Mack provides insight into the daily operations and philosophy of fishing. He emphasizes the importance of persistence and the unpredictable nature of the industry, where success often hinges on being out on the water regularly. Mack reflects on the camaraderie among fishermen, noting that while there may be rivalries on land, there is a strong sense of kinship and mutual support at sea. The couple shares personal anecdotes and discusses the financial stresses of the business. Mack highlights the pride and satisfaction that come from catching high-quality seafood rather than focusing solely on monetary gains. Throughout the interview, the Livermans reflect on the broader community of Sneads Ferry, reminiscing about the supportive nature of their neighbors and the sense of belonging within the fishing community. They express concerns about the future of the industry, particularly the challenges faced by the next generation.