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The WoBistDude Podcast

The WoBistDude Podcast

By Exploring People, Culture, Movements & Communities

Wobistdude is a multimedia platform which connects people by providing them with a space for creativity and exploration.

We are expats abroad, entrepreurs, creatives and normal people sharing insights and passions.

For more information please check out www.wobistdude.com
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Miriam on Interracial Dating, Anxiety and Hugging Trees - (WBDP 3)

The WoBistDude PodcastMar 09, 2019

00:00
49:28
Politics, Identity, Immigration, Friendships & Dating W/ Massimo (WBDP 50)

Politics, Identity, Immigration, Friendships & Dating W/ Massimo (WBDP 50)

Today's conversation with Massimo goes over politics, Slovakia, Italy, migration, dating and much more.

Notes:

02:40 – Blog Massimo wrote on maintaining a relationship with a friend who has different views on politics

04:25—Do you think you could form a friendship like this now? Could you meet someone at a bar with opposite political standpoints vs. you and still form this friendship?

5:57 – Catchup time, what has the past 2-3 years been like for you? Fulbright in Slovakia, leaving Europe, working in NYC, working for a digital publisher called “Freethink”, COVID happens, 

10:11 – How Massimo spent time during COVID, strengthened family relationships

11:44 –Slovakia, teaching english, a sense of freedom that is gained from being in a completely new place, being curious about a different culture.

15:03 – The desire to leave the northeast coast of the USA after spending 20+ years there.

18:12 –Migration, both our families have immigrants, every culture has a history of migration.

20:15 – “Curiously Wandering”, a blog Massimo has been writing to explore the topic of migration and immigration

22:11—is there any place in the world that you would like to explore? (for both)

25:40 –health insurance when you travel, needing health insurance to come to the USA, Massimo got stitches in a Croation hospital.

28:33 –Dating scene in NYC, what is it like now? Please describe the current scene, challenges, thrills, level of connection that can or can’t be formed, etc…

36:16 – Choosing where to go for a date, another challenge while living in NYC. It’s a reflection of who you are.

37:19 – Do people still ask each other out in person in NYC? Or is does this happen more online now?

37:56 –Massimo’s missed connection after listening to a speech on the subway.

41:10 –Explain the fomo and or pressure to always be doing something interesting when the weekend comes around in NYC.

43:36 – Same question for Michael but in Munich. Michael took a bath.

46:53 – Italians from Italy having issues with NYC style / American Deli style Italian subs, meatball subs, etc. CHICKEN WITH PASTA????

52:10 – Media consumption, what is Massimo into consuming nowadays?

55:46—Robot love question, how would you feel if your child ended up dating a robot, AI, artificial humanoid being? Massimo brings up the point of using robots as a interpersonal developmental tool.

1:00:30—What are Michael’s plans for WoBistDude?

1:00:50 – stories about migration, immigrants and a focus on multiculturalism – substack, “Curiously Wandering” - https://massimogug.substack.com/


Jun 08, 202301:05:30
The Sehringer Clan, Reunions & East Coast Living with Isabella Sehringer (WBDP 49)

The Sehringer Clan, Reunions & East Coast Living with Isabella Sehringer (WBDP 49)

Isabella returns to the pod this week to discuss home & family life, an upcoming wedding, Jersey City, Argentinians in NYC and recent Media. Enjoy the full ranging conversation!


Show Notes:

00:50 –Sehringer Clan reunion was in Argentina, Michael and bobby will see them all very soon

04:10 –Hanging out, group dynamic of family all together with the kids all grown up

05:44 –Life during the past two years for Bella, road trip, moving to Jersey City

08:20 – Howhard is it to find Argentinians in NYC?

10:05 –Germans don’t typically have long engaging conversations with strangers on the Subway/ Ubahn

12:25 –“The Kitchen is the heart of the home but the garden is the soul” what does this mean?

16:52 –Michael wants to know about overgrown babies in strollers

18:47 –What are the young, cool kids wearing in NYC nowadays?

21:39 –Share your thoughts on the price of living situation in NYC and the surrounding area in 2023

25:07 –What are you doing for work nowadays?

26:45 –What causes and campaigns are you interested in now or talk about things you’vebeen working on.

29:50 –What are you looking for before you start to work with a brand?

31:31 –Tables turned, Question for Michael, “What has the past year or so been like?”

34:14 –will you stay in Germany forever? Will you return to USA? 

35:40 –What are Michael’s favorite things about living in Germany?

38:00 –Discussion on work as most people’s source of identity & community

40:53 – For Bella: What sort of media have you enjoyed recently?  (BEEF)

42:39 –Michael is happy to see 2nd Gen Asians & Asians doing theirthing around the world. Especially in western pop-culture & Media this year.

44:37 – Return to USA for Michael, parents starting retirement.

46:59 – Shoutout to Sehringer clan & Albert

Jun 05, 202347:15
There’s no Chicken Parm in Europe w/ Bobby (WBDP 48)

There’s no Chicken Parm in Europe w/ Bobby (WBDP 48)

Today's wide ranging conversation with Bobby covers video games, dangerous USA cities, the elusive search for chicken parm in Europe and Marriage pt. 2.

Notes:

00:18 –Hows the weather in Munich?

01:22 – What video games has Michael been playing, Michael also mentions a book called Shantaram

04:31 – New Zelda game came out on the date of our recording

07:41 – How bobby enjoys games, not into open world. Not a fan of picking up loot.

13:47 – Lucid dreaming, dreams and video games, control. Joe Perra podcast

24:33 – We don’t like walking in USA

27:24–Miriam’s first week in USA experience recall.

29:09 –Italian American food, our love for it, and the fact that you can’t get chicken parm in Europe

30:54—Michael re-experiencing smells from his childhood in a familiar restaurant recently

33:38 – Has New York City changed a great deal in the past 2 years? If so, how?

35:04 – Mental illness & city violence in America

43:27 – Bobby is getting married, again, to the same person

45:16—How fun is it to plan a wedding in NYC?

51:45 – In a few weeks, Michael needs to come in through the side door


May 29, 202352:51
Manifesting is Real w/ Camille Rivera Roa (WBDP 47)

Manifesting is Real w/ Camille Rivera Roa (WBDP 47)

Camille Rivera- Roa joins us today to talk so many topics from cleaning up an oil spill to becoming a National Geographic explorer, love languages, manifesting, destiny and tips for becoming what you want to become. If you want to learn about what she does or get directly involved with her NGO work you can head over to www.oceanusconservation.org

Show Notes:

00:26 – Intro, Michael went to the Philippines for Camille's wedding

02:03 – San Miguel Oil spill cleanup

09:24 – What stage is the cleanup in now? What does the timeline for a return to “normalcy” look like?

11:15 – How did your NGO start doing cleanups?

14:11 – How do you multitask?

18:19 – Minecraft, tell us about your experience integrating mangrove lessons into Minecraft

23:16 – Explain how your journey into landing your National geographic opportunity

32:35 – Are you still the same Camille from the mountains of Bukidnon?

35:37 –What are some tips you have for people to get the most out of their experience at a conference or networking event?

40:37 – What do you do to make a good impression when you meet a hero of yours?

43:35 – Let’s talk marriage, how has this changed your perspective on life, work and the way you see yourself?

51:05 – How do you define love? What is love to you?

58:10 – Do you believe in destiny?

1:04:00 – https://www.oceanusconservation.org/ << check out Camilles NGO, opportunities are here for interning and volunteering

May 23, 202301:05:37
Miriam Looks for a Hobby (WBDP 46)
May 16, 202345:41
Chelsea Ehret on Changes & Life as a Millennial Mom (WBDP 45)

Chelsea Ehret on Changes & Life as a Millennial Mom (WBDP 45)

A lot of life has happened since Chelsea was last sharing content on WoBistDude. She gave birth, got married, moved to Maine, got a house, another dog and so much more. We delve into these topics and discuss millennial motherhood, reception towards pregnancy in the workplace, societal expectations, and home ownership.

Notes

01:15 – Could you share your thoughts and rationale behind returning to the US when you did go back?

04:20 – Michael is past the 5-year mark in Germany and still has the local language skills of a toddler.

04:27 – Being around other mothers, or not really being around that many mom friends

06:10 – What was the reception of American parents towards Henning (German husband)?

07:52 – Did you originally plan out how you wanted to parent or rather how you wanted the development of your child to unfold? And then did the real life application of these plans force you to improvise and adjust?

09:46 – Chelsea is no longer vegan! She explains how it happened and shares the first thing that she ate

12:20 – Can you give an example or two of something that you had a preconceived notion on, relating to motherhood or parenting, that surprised you once you got to experience it?

18:44 – Societal expectations in the US around work/ identity and who you become when you don’t have a fulltime job (for our example of course we use being a stay at home mom).

25:41 – Baby food, how do you do it? (google German “Tripp Trapp” to see this baby chair)

31:07 – Have you tried your dog’s food?

34:48 – What was it like looking for a house? Buying a house and then doing subsequent renovations?

38:25 – What do you do to escape as a guilty pleasure or to get some “me-time”?

40:00 – Brain teaser time, where would you hide a small paper clip, in the current building that you are in, if you had to make this paper clip unfindable for 24 hours?

43:30 – Check out the newest NASA images from the James Webb space Telescope!

Aug 29, 202244:28
Silent Meditation, Photography & the Himalayas ft. Aneesh Kotru (WBDP 44)

Silent Meditation, Photography & the Himalayas ft. Aneesh Kotru (WBDP 44)

Aneesh Kotru joins us today for a life update focused on the rationale behind leaving a job without something lined up, the beauty and atmosphere of the Himalayas, silent meditation and photography. Have a look at Aneesh’s work at https://www.instagram.com/darktridentp/. [ Signal gets a little weak towards the middle and end of the podcast, sorry about that !]

Shownotes:

01:32 – Where are you calling in from? (Himachal Pradesh, India near the Himalayas) The Himalayas puts you at ease.

04:50 – Would you still be open to starting a tea shop at the foot of the mountains? 

07:30 – The journey from leaving the desk job, traveling to Canada and Italy before arriving in India. 

11:01 – Leaving a job without having another one lined up

17:22 – Silent Meditation, Aneesh is gearing up, mentally for a silent meditation (Vipassana) retreat for . By the time you read this or hear about this, he will already be done. Being zen in chaos.

22:31 – [audio is sped up here]

24:18 – Michael’s experience with meditation

27:20 – Street Photography, when did you get into this and how did you get started? 

32:13 – A future project, “Humans of the Himalayas” [signal issues around 38:10] https://www.instagram.com/humansofhimal/ 

34:53 – How do you approach people on the street for street photography?

38:43 – Can you share any tips or lessons that you have learned about growing a photography oriented Instagram page? (Spend time on Instagram, ENGAGE with people, post frequently + get thick skin for the weird unpredictability of the internet)

44:55 – Landscape & wildlife photography for Aneesh Kotru

47:17 – What do the next few months look like for Aneesh?



Aug 03, 202251:01
Water Management, Mongolia & Weird Questions w/ Bolor Dorjderem (WBDP 43)

Water Management, Mongolia & Weird Questions w/ Bolor Dorjderem (WBDP 43)

Today Bolor Dorjderem joins us to discuss her personal experience with COVID-19 in Mongolia, career & life changes, water resource management, Mongolian culture, musical talents, social media, hypothetical robot dates and all things in between.

Show Notes

00:42 – Last time we saw or heard from you, you were inside a quarantine facility, how has life changed for you since then?

03:32 – French expat goes from being hated by 3 million people to saying goodbye as friends. Nicknamed “the first and last born child”

05:57 – Returning to Mongolia after the Master’s program

10:30 – Career moves, 2030 water resources group, and what you and your team are engaged in

13:18 – what kind of goals and challenges does Mongolia have regarding the management of its water resources?

14:14— mining contributes a significant portion of Mongolia’s national GDP (over 70%)

19:42 – Culture in Mongolia, what are typical stereotypes that are outdated and what are some aspects of the culture that you hold dear? (horse riding, vast open fields, Ghengis Kahn, Motorbikes replacing horses in some places to manage cattle, nomadic lifestyle)

24:53 – Fermented milk (Ayrag) discussion and Naadam, the traditional festival in Mongolia with wrestling, horse racing and archery

27:07 – Exploring Bolor’s musical talents (keyboards and drums)

29:44 – Bolor’s Youtube channel, Bolor is no longer interested in doing youtube for the near future. But we also discussed a filmed, fluffy bunny challenge from the past.

31:49 – What direction would Michael go if he started youtubing?

34:06 – Behind the scenes of Michael’s Instagram life

37:19 – Social media & online platforms even with all the harms that we are aware of can also be a great tool for catching up and connecting with people, Covid helped to reveal a bit of this.

38:32 – Would you let your child date a robot?

40:37 – Where would you hide a paperclip-sized object in the building that you are in?

43:26 – Did you choose to match the pink background on zoom with your nails and hair? (being in hometown and a reflection about being on vacation)

Jul 28, 202245:54
Community Building and Design w/ Anna Davydov (WBDP 42)

Community Building and Design w/ Anna Davydov (WBDP 42)

Today we are joined by Anna Davydov who joins us to discuss the creation of OLIM Designers, a Russian speaking design community in Israel with 900+ members. Anna talks about the creation of this group and also poses several questions for Michael on his approach to podcasting and making WoBistDude. Find out more about OLIM Designers at t.me/olimdesigners

https://cute-daisy-7da.notion.site/22f62501b1bf4c22af425af1b1370325

https://www.linkedin.com/company/olim-designers/about/

insta @olimdesigners

t.me/olimdesigners

Show notes

02:15 – OLIM Designers, a new space in Israel for the Russian-speaking design community, for design topics but also helping new immigrants adjust to life in the country

05:55 – discussing the first OLIM Designers physical meeting

08:05 – Exchange on having different people involved in building a community

9:53 – Questions for Michael, how do you motivate people involved and motivate yourself? (how did the platform develop over the past 2-3 years)

12:18 – How do you do outreach for podcasts or interviews? (for Michael)

17:37 – How does Michael go about producing the podcasts for WoBistDude

22:10 – Episode duration tips

24:35 – Gauging people’s interest in topics & speakers

28:02 – How can you get your interviewees more engaged and open to sharing things (for Michael)?

32:40 – Could you tell us about Lottie files and what you discussed with them?

36:27 – what are some resources that people could use to get an introduction to some design thinking concepts? (GO THERE AND DO IT, its much easier to learn design by trying it out)

40:27 – Could you share a principle that you have been implementing in your design work over the past year or two that have been helpful?

43:00 – What do you draw inspiration from?

45:46 – Can you share something that you’ve eaten recently that you enjoyed?

48:38 -- Wrap up

Jul 25, 202249:00
Beauty in Manual Work, Laughing at Darkness, Grappling & Bonds Forged on Xbox live w/ Nick Alpher (WBDP 41)

Beauty in Manual Work, Laughing at Darkness, Grappling & Bonds Forged on Xbox live w/ Nick Alpher (WBDP 41)

Today we are joined by Nick Alpher to discuss many many things including stories from working construction, laughing at dark and absurd things in life, a confusing return to college, coaching grappling, wrestling, favorite UFC fighters and the strength of bonds formed on Xbox live. Big thank you to Nick for sharing with honest and vivid detail! Follow Nick at @nalpherfitness on Instagram and checkout his writing on storiesmydadmadeup.tumblr.com

00:54 – Broken hand + knee injury story (vivid details)

07:08 – Manual labor/ construction is not to be confused with a workout “ It’s like the worst workout you’ll ever do in your life”

8:47—Beauties and costs of physical work. (Passive aggressiveness of retail & corporate jobs vs direct aggressiveness of construction)

11:10 – Unique friendships made and characters met working in construction

14:10 – Laughing at the dark, absurd, uncertain and tragic things in life

14:56 – Going back to college

20:52 --  Being labeled the muscles & construction guy in a  college class

26:45 – Coaching wrestling, what is your perspective on the young adult’s life -- in wrestling and in general -- now at this point in your life?

30:34 – helping kids handle anxiety around competition in wrestling + different athletes requiring different coaching approaches

34:47 – Schools of thought in BJJ on trying out new moves in practice and in competition

39:15 – Future goals and wants with grappling, career and job

46:54 – The interest that adults have for wrestling in USA and around the world is increasing!

47:51 – doing BJJ as a wrestler + stigma wrestlers have in BJJ

51:54 – NYC /PA / NJ area is still one of the Meccas for high level grappling

55:01 – Getting stuck in guard

58:09 – Who are your favorite UFC fighters?

1:07:26 – Why was “Halo 1: Combat Evolved” the greatest game ever?

1:10:59 – Making great friendships from Xbox live and turning them into real life friendships

1:18:25 – Nick is trying out a new venture into modeling and checkout storiesmydadmadeup.tumblr.com

Jul 14, 202201:19:23
Bobby Talks Job Changes, Garlic Mayo, & Kitty Interview (WBDP 40)

Bobby Talks Job Changes, Garlic Mayo, & Kitty Interview (WBDP 40)

Bobby joins us once more! We discuss his return to the USA(he did sell his computer monitor by the way), learn that you can still find people's life updates on Facebook, examine a recent Linkedin announcement, ponder garlic mayo on Pizza and agree to a recorded workout. Most importantly Bobby answers the question, “What is love?”

00:00 – Intro

02:00 – Was there any reverse culture shock when coming back to NYC & NJ?

04:37 – An intro to kitties

05:40 – Getting rejected in a cat interview

07:45 – If your cats could speak to you, what would you ask them or say to them?

09:57 – What is your favorite social media platform to use at this point and why?

12:05 – Making an announcement on Linkedin and then having to address it when things go differently than originally planned

25:26 – New takes on things in America after returning from life abroad

30:39 – America, organized sports, growing up and using sports vs places where you don’t have this type of thing

34:21 – Michael leaves his job!

36:00 – on the cusp of freedom summer

40:12 – Spaghetti Bolognese in bed

43:29 – Michael vows to embrace the darkness and emerge from freedom summer with some more muscles

43:57 – Bobby reveals what love is.

Jul 11, 202244:35
Steve Shimchick on Exploring Italy & an Upcoming UK Tour (WBDP 39)

Steve Shimchick on Exploring Italy & an Upcoming UK Tour (WBDP 39)

Steve Shimchick joins us after spending time exploring Italy. He chats with Michael on culture differences and an upcoming Tour in the UK. The band Cold Weather Company will be performing with Bouchard Brothers from Blue Oyster Cult and Firewoodisland. Find out more at https://www.coldweathercompany.com/

Shownotes:

00:00:33 – Just returned from Italy

00:03:25 – What cities/ places did you visit?

00:06:45 – Life updates from Michael, leaving current job, summer of freedom/ travel lined up

00:08:12 – Did you find love?

00:12:31 – Having time after being in highschool or college to travel and meet people, expectations from society to do this or that

00:22:22 –  Walking the "Path of Gods"

00:25:08 – NJ Transit vs. public transport in several European countries

00:26:18 – What is Michael’s typical routine ( at time of recording podcast)

00:30:57 – Did you get to interact with any local music scenes while in Italy?

00:39:00 – reflections on our joint cooking stream

00:44:00 – Sky rats and squirrels

00:45:00 – Did you take anything with you that you will continue on doing?

00:47:24 – Song from cinema pardiso

00:49:00 – Ludovico Einaudi

00:50:10 –  Tour dates - August 9th in Glasgow, 10th in Edinburgh, 11 Blackpool , 12 London, 14th Nuneaton, 15th Hull, 16th tbd, 17 Newcastle, 18th in Stoke , 19th in Bristol (go to coldweathercompany.com for more details)

00:51:30 – recommendations for an intro for this podcast?

00:53:30 – If you have suggestions for an intro or outro for the podcast send Michael a DM!

00:55:29 – Using your FM radio voice from Rutgers Radio

Jul 07, 202256:12
Adult Friendships, Work-life & Magic Things w/ Miriam (WBDP 38)

Adult Friendships, Work-life & Magic Things w/ Miriam (WBDP 38)

Today we are joined by the wonderful Miriam Lohmueller. She is a German woman with an interest in nature + the environment who works for a Bavarian state agency. This is a free-flowing candid discussion on many of the things that both Miriam and Michael are living through. We speak from our experiences on things like adult friendships, anxiety, the relationship between jobs and identity, awesome shows like “Sex Education”, and magic-hipster stuff. Enjoy. 

Show Notes:

01:57 – Adult friendships

06:07 – Friends for different stages of life

10:20—Is this podcast cheaper than therapy? (actual topic- coping with anxiety during COVID)

13:55—Differences in coping with anxiety between men and women nowadays

16:24 – Work life/ jobs and identity

27:30 – Shows we’re enjoying, starting with “Sex Education”

31:31 – Music discovery and rediscovery during pandemic life

34:50 – The hipster’s nightmare of secretly loving Taylor Swift

35:44—Cooking during the pandemic and Michael’s 2nd girlfriend

39:35 – What would you do with 500 euros?

39:50 – Conflicted feelings on appreciating JK Rowling 

44:41—Check out the new Wombats album


Jan 11, 202245:25
Building an Environmental Org, and COP26 experience w/ Camille Rivera (WBDP 37)

Building an Environmental Org, and COP26 experience w/ Camille Rivera (WBDP 37)

Camille is a marine conservationist + director and co-founder of Oceanus conservation (an environmental org protecting mangroves and coastal habitats for Filipino communities and wildlife). She joins us today to talk about her recent activities in the environmental space, COP, being a steward for global landscapes forum and some nice chit chat with Michael. 

Important announcement: Since the recording of our podcast several regions of the Philippines have been severely affected by Typhoon Rai (Odette). Camille's organization will be raising funds for areas of Bais and Southern Leyte. Please feel free to help raise funds or share this donation information. Paypal - frcamillerivera@oceanusconservation.org (more info on the wobistdude website at https://wobistdude.com/2022/01/03/building-an-environmental-org-and-cop26-experience-w-camille-rivera-wbdp-37/) 

Show notes: 

00:48 – What is a Global Landscapes Forum restoration steward and how was your experience with this endeavor?

5:19 – COP and Global Landscapes Forum at COP this year.

12:26 – Corporate greenwashing, valid efforts at sustainability/ climate action & accountability

20:40 – Local culture around Glasgow and in Ireland

26:00 – A very busy and eventful year for Mangroves for the Future

31:12 – Where do you go to learn about grants and financial opportunities for your NGO?

33:41 – If you could talk to the past Camille who had just created this NGO what would you tell her after your experiences this year?

38:01 – Learning by networking

41:16 – Slowing down and relaxing for the holidays

42:50 – Michael shaved his head


Jan 02, 202248:42
Mariana Castano Cano on Climate Comms & 10 Billion Solutions (WBDP 36)

Mariana Castano Cano on Climate Comms & 10 Billion Solutions (WBDP 36)

Mariana Castaño Cano is a Spanish climate communications expert. She is convinced that having communications right is half the job of dealing with the climate emergency. She is a cat lover and passionate about meeting people and having meaningful, honest conversations. Find more on 10billionsolutions.com and connect with her here

Enjoy our conversation on climate communications!

Shownotes:

2:18 – 10 Billion solutions

9:26 – Taking a comprehensive approach to both development and climate action

12:17 – Balancing time, maximizing impact, staying financially stable and maintaining mental health

16:29 – Any techniques from your time as a journalist for meeting deadlines?

18:57 – COP (conference of parties) event in 2021

24:48 – Thoughts on accountability in greenwashing

28:57 – You’ve interviewed many interesting people, do you have any in mind that are memorable or inspiring?

35:32 – How can we use strategic communications to push the needle forward for climate action?

46:06 – What are some notable changes that you’ve seen in the space of climate communications/ action over your career?

48:42 – Tell us about your home companion, your cat!

52:21– How do you stay so optimistic?

Dec 27, 202158:12
Bobby is selling a monitor (WBDP 35)

Bobby is selling a monitor (WBDP 35)

Bobby is on the show to talk about several big and recent life changes including a career change, marriage and moving to a scary place called New York City. We tried to keep this one as candid and back and forth as possible in a departure from the podcast's usual interview structure. Bobby is actually selling a Samsung gaming monitor. Please message him if you are interested. Enjoy the show. 

00:00:28 – WoBistDude Podcast is cheaper than therapy

00:04:11 – Can you describe your ideal role working within the film industry?

00:06:37 – Do your overalls help with relaxation?

00:08:13 – Are there any fears that you have in terms of culture shock as you return to US& A

00:13:29 – Missing NYC food & culture while abroad.

0015:38 – Irish Culture story

00:19:04 – How to add 30 minutes to your Marathon time (Brighton Marathon)

00:23:57 – What did your COVID-19 guilty pleasure meal consist of?

00:25:18 – Question for Michael, what’s your guilty pleasure meal and tell us how you want a pizza

00:29:35 – Tell me about a recent movie that you’ve seen. If you liked it, tell us why. (@theyre_here_podcast on insta)

00:37:11—What are the ingredients to a timeless movie?

00:43:40 – Please tell us about someone that you admire that did something that you disagree with

00:48:20 – What are you doing with a surprise 500 euros in cash?

00:50:30 – Who does Michael admire and also disagree with at times?

Dec 19, 202154:58
Wade On Work, Trees & Love in the Time of COVID-19 (WBDP 34)

Wade On Work, Trees & Love in the Time of COVID-19 (WBDP 34)

Welcome back to the WoBistDude podcast. Wade Million joins us on the show today to discuss his experience living through 2 economic crises, researching geese in Sweden, working with Global Forest Generation, going to COP, working on a documentary with Michael and dating German women. https://www.globalforestgeneration.org/ << Go here for more information on Global Forest Generation.

00:00 – Introduction

01:30 – Graduating & job hunting during the financial crisis of 2008 and COVID-19

07:38 – Thesis on geese in Sweden (note, we actually did talk about this during the last podcast!)

16:05 – Finishing a Master’s during wave 1 of COVID-19 in Germany

20:06 – What is your role in Global Forest Generation?

32:21 – What does your NGO look for when finding organizations to partner with in terms of funding?

41:34 – Impressions from COP this year

53:38 – Working with Michael on the documentary “Munich Rising”

1:04:30 – Dating German women

Dec 12, 202101:13:43
Discussing Film and Documentary Making with Trevor May (WBDP 33)

Discussing Film and Documentary Making with Trevor May (WBDP 33)

Bobby Weisblatt talks to Atlanta cinematographer and filmmaker Trevor May on the making of the film “On Island”, the art of documentary filmmaking and an upcoming project.

Check out the film "On Island" here: https://youtu.be/3qr_RLZeYgc
"On Island" is a documentary about a community coming together to face the growing challenges of substance use.

Like what you heard today? Give the podcast a stellar rating on your favorite platform or better yet, share it with a friend.
For more, go to wobistdude.com

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Show notes:

00:30 - Introduction

01:44 – How did you get into film making? When did you decide that this was your career path?

10:11 – Discussion on the feature documentary, “On Island” centered on the community in Martha’s Vineyard and the drug, alcohol and substance abuse programs in the area. Could you share how you captured the feeling of community as the cinematographer of the project?

19:55 – People who have influenced Trevor. 1. Trevor Kane 2. Filmmaker Sean Dunn who focuses on finding unique subcultures that people haven’t covered, the idea of sharing space with people and talking to them without making your picture seem a certain way + making people feel safe and respected in order to get real honesty

23:37 – Balancing “not about me”,  being about the space, vs capturing the beauty of landscape

25:47 – Filming the “On Island” documentary during COVID-19 in Martha’s Vineyard

37:00 - Making something feel like you are having a conversation with someone and being in someone's living room

38:48 – Examining Theo Anthony’s “Rat Film” (2016) on Baltimore , the idea of navigating space in the film with a small camera

53:38 – What do you have coming up?

Mar 24, 202101:02:51
Chai, Entrepreneurship & the Asian American Experience w/ Poonam Ribadia (WBDP 32)

Chai, Entrepreneurship & the Asian American Experience w/ Poonam Ribadia (WBDP 32)

Today we are joined by Poonam Ribadia, she is a Manager for Curriculum Development in EdTech and Founder, Owner of Rekha’s Chai Co.

We discuss Chai's significance in Poonam's life and culture, her experience building up her passion project and her efforts encouraging others to explore authentic aspects of Asian culture through cuisine.

Learn more about Rekha's Chai co. Follow Poonam's page and journey and feel free to order a kit for making Chai at home!

If you liked the podcast please give it a stellar rating and recommend it to a friend! Thank you for checking out the WoBistDude community.

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Shownotes:

00:00- Intro

00:56 – What is Chai?

03:58 – What are the ingredients in your version of Chai (infographic from Priya Krishna)

05:13 – Is there a difference between Chai and Masala tea?

06:05 – Explain the significance of Chai to you, your family and your culture

08:22 – What sort of manifestations of Chai have you seen being presented to people in the western world?

10:31 – How did Rekha’s Chai co. come about?

12:29 – What is something that people usually don’t have at home that is needed for Chai?

13:46 – How did you get mom to hand over the secret recipe?

18:08 – Chai wala, the stigma of the business model back in India and challenging this while running the small business out of Brooklyn

22:27 – What is someone going to see when they unbox one of your kits?

24:27 – Please share your favorite lesson from this endeavor of starting your own small business

27:41 – Thoughts on American receptiveness to authentic cultural cuisines now compared to when you were growing up?

31:46 – Talk about your thoughts on where you would like the project to go in general or share the way you view this project now.

34:14 – Book recommendation “Brave Not Perfect” by Reshma Saujani

35:13 – Share your thoughts on the Asian American traditional model of success

Brain teasers

38:47 – If I gave you 500 dollars after this podcast what will you spend it on?

40:10 – What are you excited about for 2021?

41:53 – What is one weird habit that you have or a bizarre thing that you love?

43:18 – Does Michael drink chai?

43:51 – Learn more about Rekha’s Chai co. – @Rekhaschaico on Instagram. Info@rekahschaico.com

Mar 14, 202144:52
The Variety Show with Grishma Nair (WBDP 31)

The Variety Show with Grishma Nair (WBDP 31)

We're thrilled to have Grishma back on the pod today. We are talking about all sorts of things, including arranged marriages being cool again? Life during the pandemic, Bollywood for working out, IT development and of course, flip flops and sandals.

More from Grishma @grishma.nair on instagram

Learn more about wobistdude at wobistdude.com

If you enjoyed this podcast please give us a share, like or rating!

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Shownotes: 

00:00 – Intro

01:47 – Have your views on Marriage and arranged matchmaking changed since our last podcast when we discussed the topic?

06:20 – how has pandemic life been treating you?

09:45 – what is the thing that you miss most about a pre-pandemic society?

11:37 – what would be the first thing that you do once the world is fully vaccinated

13:37 – Tell me what you’ve been eating recently?

15:24 – Do you miss India at this point?

17:58 – lets talk about the stereotype of Indians working in IT, thoughts? Or what has been your experience with IT/ what have you seen?

19:50 – Did you plan out your experience of coming to Germany and living here for an extended period of time?

20:50 – What surprised you about living here in Germany or Bayern?

23:32 – what is an unusual habit that you have or an absurd thing that you love?

24:40 – Is there anything about 2021 that you are looking forward to?

25:18 – Are you a dog person or a cat person?

25:54—what is one piece of advice that you would give to Pre-pandemic Grishma?

27:24—What would you do if I gave you 500 euros?

28:21 – Tell us who you would take with you on a bank robbery

30:15 – Name a role model of yours and explain why you admire this person

31:03 – Grishma asks Michael who his role models are

Mar 09, 202134:24
Across America ft. Isabella Sehringer (WBDP 30)

Across America ft. Isabella Sehringer (WBDP 30)

Today Isabella Sehringer joins us on the podcast for a full ranging conversation on a work-from-home road trip across America, digital storytelling, family business and the love, optimism & hard work that is rising up in today's USA.

Learn more about Isabella’s work and various projects at @bella3201 on Instagram,  ABpartners.co or www.Artifax.media.

If you like this podcast please give us a rating and share it with a friend. Find out more at www.wobistdude.com 

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Shownotes:

00:00 – Introduction

01:32 – Road trip across the USA

05:43 – The car, the MVP of the trip, she was a toaster on wheels

08:28 – How far west did you end up going?

09:03 – Name a memorable experience from this trip… well, name a time that you were afraid on the trip

17:09 – In retrospect, now that you made it out, if you were stuck up there and it came down to dire, dire circumstances, which one of your friends would you have eaten first? (joking)

18:18 – Talk about the visual beauty you encountered out west in nature

21:46 – did you notice any big changes in terms of atmosphere or how people treated each other in the locations you visited as opposed to what you are used to in the Northeast?

24:55 – Boulder Colorado for month

25:17 – What are some traits that you value in a travel companion?

28:03 – Talk about Artifax, the video production company that you cofounded, Documentary featuring Freedom Skatepark in New Jersey

33:10 – Digital Storytelling at A/B Partners a non-traditional agency in the political and social impact space

35:27 – Do you miss your dear brother Albert?

38:30 – If the stars align and the Sehringers start a family business? What would it be and what would everyone’s roles be?

42:39—What’s one thing about Argentinian culture that you’d like to share with the people listening to this podcast

45:38 – What would you give as a piece of advice to pre-Covid-19 Bella?

49:18 – Can you share something about America or Americans that could use some more media attention

52:01 – Name something that you are looking forward to or feeling optimistic about for 2021

54:25 – What is an unusual habit that you have or absurd thing that you love?

56:20 -- to learn about Bella’s projects see the links above!

Feb 21, 202156:56
Sara Speaks on Life in Bayern (WBDP 29)

Sara Speaks on Life in Bayern (WBDP 29)

Sara joins us today to talk about her life and experience living as an American in Munich. We go over what it's like getting a master's degree in Europe and the various aspects of German life and culture which we have lived through. 

Check out Sara's youtube channel Bay to Bayern: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOD6GHBiYh9HGeWOOBDW8XQ 

Insta: https://www.instagram.com/baytobayern/

For more from WoBistDude go to https://www.wobistdude.com

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Shownotes

00:00 – Intro & pursuing a masters degree in Munich

05:40 – Preconceived notions and stereotypes about Germans, thoughts on things like efficiency and bureaucracy after living in Germany for a few years

08:14 – Compare and contrast: Seattle vs. Munich

10: 52 – do you have a favorite German dish?

12:12 – Fasching

13:12 – Let’s talk about your Youtube channel: Bay to Bayern

17:13 – Youtube Channel Format, length, topics? How did you decide on what to do and how to do it?

20:15 – have you had any unexpected surprises or thing you learned while working on the youtube channel?

21:45 – are there any youtubers that you admire or look up to?

22:50 – What sort of tips could you give to someone trying to acclimate to a new culture or a new city?

24:20 – what’ s it been like adopting a dog in Germany and during 2019?

28:56 – Did you have to do more as a prospective dog owner or a prospective apartment renter in Munich?

34:59 – Getting Married during COVID-19 in Munich

38:39 – what is one thing about America that you miss at the moment?

40:15 – What is one weird habit that you have or a bizarre thing that you love?

41:29 – what would you do if you suddenly had 500 new euros?

44:27 – If you get to have one post or message to the whole world, what would you say to everyone?

44:45 – Lookout for the Bay to Bayern Facebook and Tik Tok accounts in the near future along with the new videos.

Feb 14, 202146:55
Connecting With Dance ft. Petra Gucunski (WBDP 28)

Connecting With Dance ft. Petra Gucunski (WBDP 28)

Petra Gucunski joins us today to discuss Continuum Dance Company, an organization built to help working professionals reconnect with their love for dance. We also discussed various aspects of dance and the interesting places dance has taken Petra in life. 

Learn more about Continuum Dance Co at https://www.continuumdanceco.com/ or @Continuumdanceco on Insta
For more from wobistdude go to https://www.wobistdude.com or @wobistdude on Insta

If you enjoyed this podcast please share it with a friend and give us a stellar rating!

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Show Notes:

00:57 - Could you recall your first memory with dance?
01:22- What is Continuum Dance Company?
01:48- Could you talk about your own background in dance through highschool and university time and afterwards?
05:42- What does the structure look like in terms of shows and schedule for Continuum?
07:00- Can you describe the dancers in the company? Who are they? What do they do?
09:47- The company itself has gotten a lot of attention. Let’s talk about getting featured in a Forbes article and being in a commercial.
12:14- How does one dance in the background for a commercial?
13:56- How did COVID-19 change the way you run Continuum Dance Co?
17:55- Name the biggest challenge and the most rewarding aspect of Continuum Dance Co for you
22:16- What is your favorite style of dance?
23:36- What is one style of dance that you would like to try out and learn?
26:27- Let’s say someone has a relative, partner or friend coming to a dance performance, what can they pay attention to in order to get a deeper appreciation for the execution or hard work that was put in?
27:59- What is the general outline or process for choreographing a dance piece? Or what does your process entail?
30:27- How can we get to the flexibility of the standing side split? Or how long does it take?
31:50- Are there any basic exercises people can take from the discipline of dance to incorporate into their fitness or flexibility routines?
33:06- What is one unexpected place or situation that you ended up in as a result of dance?
35:07- Can you share any life skills that you've learned from dancing that you've applied to areas outside of dance?
36:58- Can you name a role model you have and tell us why you respect this person?
39:27- What is an unusual habit that you have or an absurd thing that you love?
42:32- What is one thing that you are looking forward to in 2021?
43:49- Earth is your social media following for one post, what will you say?
44:32- What does the short and long term future look like for Continuum?

Jan 31, 202151:05
New Jersey Restaurant Life w/ Steve Colombero (WBDP 27)

New Jersey Restaurant Life w/ Steve Colombero (WBDP 27)

Steve Colombero is a restaurant manager at the award-winning Mistral restaurant and Elements restaurant in Princeton, New Jersey. 

Today’s Podcast gives us a deep dive into life at both. We talk about the adjustments that have been made during the Covid-19 Pandemic along with aspects of food culture and Steve's experience and lessons from restaurant life (this podcast was recorded in late October so  the COVID-19 situation has evolved since then)

Find Steve at https://www.instagram.com/s_colombero

If you enjoyed the podcast please give us a rating, follow and a share!

Find out more about wobistdude at wobistdude.com or on insta & FB  

Shownotes:

00:00 – Intro

01:35 – How did you get into the food industry/ hospitality  (awesome video by Chris Bellizzi https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-pqaNT8bGXA&feature=emb_title @chris.bellizzi on Instagram

03:00 – can you talk about the changes that happened during early COVID-19 in the US

05:00 – what did you have to do to keep patrons separate from each other?

07:29 – What is the setup for the cold winter months?

08:19 –“no-BS” quotes about life during COVID-19 from Chefs

10:47 – fundraising for restaurant teams during COVID-19

12:01 – Do you see any COVID-19 changes staying around after the world has dealt with the pandemic?

13:07 – Do you find that a lot of customers are following the safety rules at this point in time?

14:00 – Let’s talk about your positive attitude and awesome people skills… does it come natural or was it something you built up over the years?

15:51—Social media for chefs and restaurants  

17:15 – Anthony Bourdain: how did he influence the way you view, food, culture and hospitality?

18:25 – Do you have any modern day chefs that you admire and would like to shout out?  

20:27 – Is there anything happening within restaurants or the hospitality industry  that you think people should pay more attention to?

21:55—Can you describe a favorite meal of yours that you’ve had recently?

24:10 – Name an unexpected place that working the restaurant business has taken you to    

27:20 – What’s the process like for developing a new dish at either one of the restaurants that you work at? Do you get to be the guinea pig?    

Brain Teasers

29:24 --  Hypothetical situation: you run a small restaurant and you have to staff it with characters from movies or popular fiction. Pick a chef, line cook, bar tender and a server

31:27 – What is an unusual habit that you have or a strange thing that you love?

34:09 – what is something that you learned from restaurant work that you use in other areas of life?

35:11 – How do you stay so positive?

35:41 – Could you share a negative review that made you laugh or stuck with you?

36:41 – where can people go to try the food?  And support their local restaurant scene 

37:59 – how have you had to adjust doing the WoBistDude thing during this time?

38:46 – what’s the current state of things for restaurants in Munich, Germany 

40:04-- for people who want to find Mistral and elements where can they find it?    


Dec 06, 202041:17
Music and Conversation w/ Steve Shimchick of Cold Weather Company (WBDP 26)

Music and Conversation w/ Steve Shimchick of Cold Weather Company (WBDP 26)

Steve Shimchick is the singer & pianist for the New Jersey-based, independent alternative folk band Cold Weather Company (along with Brian and Jeff). We go over community building, song writing, inspiration along with the powerful places and feelings that music has allowed Steve to experience. 

Find Cold Weather Company at https://www.coldweathercompany.com/, https://open.spotify.com/artist/2ayD3f20lm9a4aKNtg2sUm,
https://www.instagram.com/coldweathercompany/

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Show notes

00:00 – Introduction

01:42 – Give us a life update Steve! (fall 2020)

03:00 – what is recording like during COVID-19?

05:05 – Have you had any unexpected upsides during this pandemic?

06:50 – Welcome walls, a recent single, please tell us about the influences that brought this piece together (Jeff had a riff when he was 16)

08:32 – Do you ever come up with music while cycling?

10:53 – Is it possible to have virtual Jam sessions nowadays?

12:11 – A moment of joy, a 9 minute song, theatrical elements, sounds from everyday life, tell us how you went about creating this song

15:23 – Piano from the song! (a moment of joy)

19:13 – Music video for “A Moment of Joy”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hAE8dpkWTpk

24:29 – What is Cold Weather Conversations? (cold weather collective- https://www.coldweathercompany.com/collective/)

29:22 – Cold Weather cook offs… Michael is down

30:50 – With Spotify, Youtube, Patreon and other platforms like this do you find it easier to be an independent artist at this time?

34:23 – Are you guys on vinyl? (Find Light)

35:18 – Let’s talk about the Cold Weather Collective getting involved in things outside of just music with you (Clean ups, Black Lives Matter, Mental Health)

39:55 – How did you approach the buildup of the Cold Weather Collective/ Community? (https://www.coldweathercompany.com/collective)

44:58 – What is one aspect of your life outside of music that has directly influenced the way that you perform or write music? (love and shoutout for Brian and Jeff)

47:25 – what is an absurd habit that you have or an unusual thing that you love?

50:33 – We need to talk about your love for “The Office” (https://open.spotify.com/show/5T1519uHGVd6Te2xF5tKkR- an Oral History of the Office)

54:43 – If you could share the stage with any musician/band (dead or alive) who would it be?

57:36 – Can you describe an unexpected place that music or being in a band has taken you to?

1:00:37 – Name a role model that you have and tell us why you admire this person?

1:02:30 – If you could speak to a younger Steve at the beginning of his journey to start Cold Weather Company what would you say to him?

1:07:50 – Describe your ideal breakfast

1:09:27 – Find Cold Weather Company at https://www.coldweathercompany.com/, https://open.spotify.com/artist/2ayD3f20lm9a4aKNtg2sUm, https://www.instagram.com/coldweathercompany/

Nov 29, 202001:10:52
Dare to Move, Create & Play w/ Raluca & Fozzy (WBDP 25)

Dare to Move, Create & Play w/ Raluca & Fozzy (WBDP 25)

PowerPlay is an approach to fitness which incorporates a playful and experimental mindset. Fozzy (aka Prof. Dr. Eckehard Moritz) heads the innovation consultancy Innovationsmanufaktur in Munich and Raluca Muntean is a designer and acrobat also living in Munich. View the recent work from Powerplay here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0l32jDdL7HY&feature=emb_title . Find out more from Innovationsmanufaktur at innovationsmanufaktur.com and . Contact Ralu at raluubluu@gmail.com and Fozzy at efm@innovationsmaufaktur.com

If you like the podcast please share it with a friend and give us an awesome rating! Learn more at www.wobistdude.com 

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Shownotes:

00:00 – introductions

01:31 – please tell us about your backgrounds in movement

05:17 – how did the two of you meet?

07:15 – What is powerplay?

13:20 – Discussing the powerplay concept videos (link in the description), coming up with new exercises in an everyday environment such as an office

14:44 – What does it mean for you to play?

17:39 – concept application, please apply this concept of play and movement to the room we are having this podcast in (keg shaped stool, chair with an adjustable height)

21:20 – What sort of basics do people need or what kind of experience do people need to do this type of playing? Or how can inexperienced people learn about their physical abilities when working with this type of concept? (focus is your most basic safety measure)

25:06 – Any thoughts on the movement, movement? (ie, Ido Portal, etc)? Functionality, bodyweight movement, acrobatic influenced movement?

27:36 – Contextualizing the powerplay concept with other sports, everyday life as an alternative or even a complement to what your current needs are.

30:26 – Where would you like to take powerplay in the near future?

35:40 -- COVID-19, has it altered the way you are implementing the powerplay concept?

38:39 – For Raluca, has your experience in design influenced your movement in any way or vice versa?

40:33 – For Fozzy, do you find movement affecting your non-movement parts of life?

42:42 – What are the most important things for somebody to remember when they are doing a handstand—basics, how do you start if you are decently strong and athletic.

47:15 – Fozzy, you are one of the few people I know in our modern society who does not use or own a cell phone. I want to hear what your thoughts are around seeing the world evolve with cell phones? What has this 30 year evolution or change in human behavior been like for you?

53:18—Fozzy, did you have any accurate predictions about the present day 10 years ago?

55:29—Name a role model you have and tell us why you admire this person

58:16 – hypothetical: rob a bank, pick three accomplices and tell us why you are taking them along

1:00:55 – what are you going to eat for breakfast tomorrow?

1:03:00—What is one of the best or most worthwhile investments of time, money or effort that you have put into something?

1:07:00 – bringing a crazy idea to life for “Wetten Dass” the german tv show: carrying a formula 1 car on the soles of your feet while doing a handstand… for 5 meters https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8zJKwOangSE

1:11:49 – to learn more about PowerPlay online go here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoYbrE6GAnqaqmFGk8egZDw

Nov 22, 202001:12:34
Learning By Doing & NGO Building w/ Diego Portugal (WBDP 24)

Learning By Doing & NGO Building w/ Diego Portugal (WBDP 24)

Diego Portugal is from Peru and lives now in Berlin. He has more than four years of working experience in ecology conservation, including urban ecology. He currently works in Nature-based Solutions and Nature’s Contribution to People. Diego is cofounder of Ficus Peru and president of gaia liNc.

If you enjoyed the show please give us a like, follow, rating and share it with someone who you think would enjoy this conversation. Learn more at www.wobistdude.com 

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Show Notes

00:00 – Intro

01:42 – The beginnings of the NGO Ficus Peru (Michael pronounced it poorly)

03:45 – The goals of Ficus

04:43 – Where did you learn some of the basics of human -environment interactions, where did you get this education?

07:55 – Keeping up with Ficus?

09:10 – gaia liNc, some background and why this organization was created

11:31 – What sort of projects would you like to leverage the multidisciplinary exerptise of gaia liNc for?

12:25 – Funding, how did you get it?

16:28 – Risk taking, presenting in unfamiliar languages, being in situations that you are technically unprepared for and just “going for it”.

18:42 – Do you have any key traits that you’ve identified in team members that have been super helpful along the way in your X2 NGO journey? Or if you had to start over again what traits would you look for when scouting for team members?

19:58 – WWF, what sort of projects are you working on for them? (report Nature Hires with WWF & ILO)

21:25—Has the structure of your work changed as a result of COVID-19

23:31—It seems like there needs to be a switch towards long-term thinking in order for people to get the full benefits of a healthy environment. Do you have any opinions on getting people as individuals or larger groups to think long term about the environment?

27:00 – I like your leadership style, you are competitive and ambitious without being a dick and you seem to be a good listener. How did you achieve this balance?

34:20 – Brain picking time, how does Diego network so well?

37:05 – How to be a good teammate at KFC and how to get employee of the month!

40:46—a lifechanging trip to a wildlife reserve in South Africa

44:40 – Getting fired from a wonderful job in the amazon

Personality questions

46:25 – Name an individual that you admire and tell us why this person inspires you

49:39 – what is an unusual habit that you have or a strange thing that you love?

52:31 – Stolen from reddit: you need to hide a paperclip anywhere in your apartment, a police investigator has 24 hours to search for it. Where are you going to hide this object?

55:48 – could you name one investment of time, money or effort into something that really paid off for you later on?

58:39 – What is one thing that you miss about Peru that you can’t find in Europe?

1:01:41—If I gave you 500 euros right now, what would you do with it?

1:03:00 – Where can people go to learn about any of the NGOs that you’re involved in or to get in contact with you?

Nov 15, 202001:04:49
Jersey to Vietnam and Back w/ Jason Kopacz (WBDP 23)

Jersey to Vietnam and Back w/ Jason Kopacz (WBDP 23)

Jason is an adventure lover from Bayonne, New Jersey. He loves writing, riding motorbikes, backpacking, trying new foods and experiences. Jason writes in another blog called Definitely Not Missing.

Did you enjoy this podcast? Give us a rating and share it with a friend. Feel free to reachout to wobistdude.com with questions, ideas for topics or cool interview subjects.

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Shownotes:

00:00 – Intro

01:32 – Right after college, poop in your water, filtering and testing for contamination for the municipality

02:25 – Americorps water assessments, education and community event organization

05:00 – Dispelling New Jersey’s bad international reputation

5:25 – How did you go from Jersey to Southeast Asia?

09:51 – Motorbikes in Vietnam

14:18 – Favorite Vietnamese dish

15:35 – Teaching English in Hanoi

22:23 – Did you learn anything about English that you didn’t know before as a result of teaching people ESL?

24:09 – Learning Vietnamese

24:48 – Taking Artur and Scott on a Northern bike tour

27:46 – When did you decide to stay in Vietnam for an extended period of time?

29:47 – Did you fall in love?

30:51 – The juicy topic, why did you go back to the US, & how’d you break your leg?

35:22 – Michael drops the hottest pun of the year

35:40 – Who was Jason before this trip and who was he afterwards?

38:20 – Coming home after being abroad for so long

40:17 – Coding basics and bootcamp

43:09 – often in movies we have a scene where the protagonist’s friend quickly rolls up in a car and yells “get in, I’ll explain later” do you have any adverntures like this that you could share with us?

44:27 – Tell me about your ideal breakfast

45:05 – Do you have any tips for people moving into a new city or new country, people trying to acclimate to the local culture?

45:55 – Do you have an unusual habit that you have or bizarre thing that you love?

47:05 – Whenever you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do to relax, clear your head or get back “ in the zone”

48:31 – Hypothetical situation, I give you 500 USD what would you spend it on right now?

49:05 – The world is your social media feed for one post, what is your message to everyone, everywhere?

50:33 – where can people go to learn about you or get in contact with Jason Kopacz (@jasonkopacz or blog: definitely not missing)

Nov 08, 202051:20
Cinematography & Type II Fun w/ Lakshika Serasinhe (WBDP 22)

Cinematography & Type II Fun w/ Lakshika Serasinhe (WBDP 22)

Lakshika Serasinhe is a cinematographer and director from Galway, Ireland. He joins us on the WoBistDude podcast to talk all things video, cinema and film. Find out more about his work at https://lakshikafilms.com/ insta: @lakshika_films

If you liked this podcast please share it with a friend and give us a rating!

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00:00 – Intro

00:39 – When did you start filmmaking?

04:45 – do you remember when people started putting photos online (2005ish)?

06:51 – Justin Davey? How do you know this guy?

08:24 – What kinds of projects do you create/ work on?

12:00 – has COVID-19 created any changes in your work during 2020?

13:50 – Getting to know where you live during COVID-19

16:15 – do you think the way people approach independent filmmaking will change in the long term as a result of COVID-19?

19:30 – What is your secret storytelling sauce?

23:00 – Let’s talk about a film you worked on called “Daughter”: An old man approaches a woman on the street and says she reminds him of his daughter, they have lunch, the old man has absurd flashbacks …. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ri-vOMUytxQ&feature=emb_title

25:05 – Film Challenges, whats tough about having these tight 48 hour time constraints

30:50 – There are 3 types of fun, type I, type II and type III type fun

33:50 – Where do you get your inspiration from?

38:40 – Film: questions to the Irish people from the rest of the world… https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DaubLYM6X9A&feature=emb_title

45:13 – the next year’s one shot challenge: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pwt9venIY6U

46:40 – Were there any culture shocks for you coming to Ireland or growing up as a Sri Lankan in Ireland?

49:00 – What would you consider to be the biggest change in indie filmmaking from when you started to 2020?

Personality Questions

54:00 – Name an unusual habit that you have or an absurd thing that you love

56:00 – What is an unexpected place that filmmaking has taken you to?

1:00:00—what would you do if I gave you 500 euros right now?

1:02:00—rob a bank, pick 3 accomplices to help

1:05:00—name a role model of yours and tell us why you respect this person

1:09:03—You now have the entire earth as your social media following, what is your one message to everybody, everywhere?

1:11:37 – go to Lakshikafilms.com !

Nov 01, 202001:12:31
Exergaming & Design w/ Felipe Guarin (WBDP 21)

Exergaming & Design w/ Felipe Guarin (WBDP 21)

Felipe Guarin is a creative executive living in Tokyo, Japan, with strong branding and marketing experience and a passion for technology, design and applied creativity complemented with a successful start-up experience. He is the founder of the design studio called Whatever Works and the co-founder of Kinix, a video game studio based in Japan that aims to dissolve the line between sports and e-sports.

He joins us on the WoBistDude Podcast for a conversation on exergaming. Tune in and if you enjoyed this conversation please give us a rating, like or share!

Find out more about Felipe’s work at Kinix.jp & whateverworks.design

Shownotes:

00:00 – Intro

01:11 – What is Kinix and what do you do for it? (dissolving the line between E-sports and sports)

02:03 – Addressing common criticisms when talking about E-sports when comparing them to traditional physical sports

04:37 -- What does the Kinix platform consist of?

07:41 – What kind of interaction did you get from the sports side during the testing and developing of your game

10:45 – Motivation, interaction and self-determination theory (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Self-determination_theory)

12:05 – Can we discuss the video game predecessors that laid the building blocks for what you are currently creating?

16:30 – What do you think about the progress with augmented reality games such as HADO (augmented reality dodgeball)?

19:37 – What kind of games were you playing growing up?

22:11 – Let’s talk about chess, why is this your favorite game?

25:00 – Why do you think chess is so timeless?

26:10 – What is Whatever Works?

28:50 – can you name a role model of yours and tell us why you admire this person?

29:57 – what is an usual habit that you have or an absurd thing that you love?

31:14 – The world is now your social media audience, what is your one message to everybody, everywhere?

32:30 – What would you do right now with 500 more euros?

33:44 – Name 3 people to help you rob a bank

35:10 – Michael’s unusual habits?

35:56—Wrap up

Oct 25, 202036:47
Melissa Angel on Banjo Wielding, Finding Jane Goodall and Saving the World from Home (WBDP 20)

Melissa Angel on Banjo Wielding, Finding Jane Goodall and Saving the World from Home (WBDP 20)

We join environmental communicator Melissa Angel as she describes her experience running one of the largest early post-COVID-19 virtual conferences for the Global Landscapes Forum. We also dive into her journey through environmental communications in different organizations around the world and we even get an introduction to her dog Morby!

Find out more about the upcoming Global Landscapes Forum virtual event on Biodiversity here: https://events.globallandscapesforum.org/biodiversity-2020/

Like this podcast? Give us a rating, thumbs up, like or share!

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Show Notes:

00:00 – Introduction

01:08 – What brought you to Germany the 3rd time?

02:33 – have you always been into nature and the outdoors?

04:37 – the need to address a disconnect between science & politics

07:12 – What was your experience like working at UN Climate Change?

08:44 – Facilitating conversations with people from different backgrounds via the Global landscapes forum

09:13 – What is the Global Landscapes Forum?

10:27 – what is important to keep in mind when setting up a panel or stage for open conversation between people from different backgrounds?

11:51 – There were some big names at this GLF conference… was it difficult to get in contact with some of these people?

13:04 – When things did not go as planned with the live feed, what was happening behind the scenes?

18:15 – Traditionally people cite networking opportunities as the big plus of attending a live event so what were a few of the ways you facilitated networking during the GLF virtual conference?

20:00 – Can you see more environmental orgs, non profits, holding virtual conferences for big BIG events in the future?

24:08 – Can you name any significant changes that you’ve seen over your years of working for different environmental and climate change organizations in the way we communicate about the environment?

27:22 – is there any one thing that you miss about America while living in Germany?

31:10 – name an unusual habit that you have or an absurd thing that you love?

31:50 – Banjo question, have you had any unique experiences that have come up as a result of you playing this instrument?

34:40 – during the past five years what new belief, behavior or habit has had a direct impact on your life?

36:49 – Pick 3 people to help you rob a bank, tell us who and why

39:08 – You have the world as your social media feed for one post, what is your message to everyone, everywhere?

Oct 18, 202040:58
Mangroves, Machetes & the Multitasking Octopus Camille Rivera (WBDP 19)

Mangroves, Machetes & the Multitasking Octopus Camille Rivera (WBDP 19)

Camille Rivera is a marine conservationist and a free diver from the Philippines. She is a co-founder of Oceanus Conservation, (http://oceanusconservation.org/) a startup environmental organization and she also manages the science communication platform Mangroves for our future in Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/mangrovesforourfuture/) .
Learn more about WoBistDude at
www.wobistdude.com
If you liked this podcast please go ahead and give us a rating and share it with a friend.
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Show notes:
00:00 -- Introduction
01:27 – Could you describe how you initially got interested in the mangrove ecosystem
05:08 – How do mangroves help to regulate the global climate? And what do they do for the climate protection on a local level?
10:23 – Typhoon 101 in the Philippines with Camille Rivera
14:05 – Have the fish populations of the mangroves that you are familiar with either blossomed or suffered during COVID-19 times? Also thoughts on the reality fishing and the need to provide food for local people.
18:18 – Has life for you changed during the onset of COVID-19?
19:30 – has life changed for Michael?
21:50 – What sort of things are you teaching yourself with online courses?
22:57 – Global Landscapes Forum Conference, what were your feelings about participating in this large virtual conference?
25:58 – How to properly use your machete, with grace, to open up your coconuts
28:25 – What do you think needs to be emphasized in environmental communication?
32:58 – Which ecosystem is Michael fascinated about?
33:34 – Tell us about your NGO
35:20 – Storybooks for children
36:17 – Have you learned any life lessons from rescue diving or free diving that can be applicable on land?
43:01 – Name a role model of yours
47:25 – What is an unusual habit that you have or an absurd thing that you may love?
50:56 – If I give you the equivalent of 500 euros in PHP, what are you going to spend it on?
54:00 – Where can we send people who want to learn more about what you do?
Oct 12, 202056:45
Justin Davey: On Surf Photography & Pocket Bread (WBDP 18)

Justin Davey: On Surf Photography & Pocket Bread (WBDP 18)

Justin Davey is a self-taught filmmaker/surf photographer with a background in tech, politics and environmentalism focused on creating a niche clothing brand. Check out Justin’s work at https://srfphtgrphr.com/ and https://www.instagram.com/justinkdavey/ .  
Learn more about the WoBistDude platform at www.wobistdude.com

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00:00 – Introduction

01:29 – How did you catch the bug for surf photography?

04:26 – Have you Surfed before this?

05:14— Justin’s impressions of Siargao’s culture

06:12 – Technical aspects of surf photography

08:08 – How did this fascination for surf photography transition to Pocket Bread or the idea for having a clothing brand

14:47 – What is the recommended number of buttons to have done up in one of your shirts?

15:33 – Process of designing one of these shirts

16:37 – Talk about the series you’ve done called “From a Distance”

19:05 – Thoughts on and experiences with localism in surf culture and finding a balance with people

22:05 – Has it been a struggle to get a brand off the ground in 2020? Or how have you had to adapt?

24:06 – What kind of process do you have to go through to ensure that your product is sustainable?

27:17 – Could you describe your impressions of Cornwall and the surf culture there?

29:08 – Scenario: Coronavirus is gone, you can go anywhere in the world to do some surf photography, where are you headed?

31:16 – What is one unusual habit that you have or an absurd thing that you love?

32:48 – Name a role model you have and why you respect who they are or what they do

34:35 – Rob a bank, pick three accomplices and tell us why you would bring them along

37:10 – what is one of the best or most rewarding investments of time, money or effort that you made which paid off for you later on?

38:23 – The trip to LA

43:43 – “Why did you make make me do this” – Justin. And other questions for Michael

45:40 – What can we expect in the next few months from Justin Davey and Pocket Bread?

Oct 03, 202047:33
Human Elements in Photography and Media ft. Erin Skoczylas | (WBDP 17)

Human Elements in Photography and Media ft. Erin Skoczylas | (WBDP 17)

Erin is a photojournalist and communications specialist living in Germany. Her work has taken her all over the world and we are happy to have her on to explore media and photojournalism. This one is super insightful and fun. Enjoy. 

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Show Notes:

00:00 – Intro

00:44 – What got you into photojournalism?

02:19 – Do you remember your first camera?

04:14 – The journey from sports to journalism

07:04 – How have you been changed by the places that you’ve visited?

10:50 – In your experience how do different cultures react to the camera?

14:36 – How do you meet the person who can connect you to all the vital points of a story?

16:30 – Did you consciously push your work towards having a more human element?

18:00 – Erin explains the importance of how people are portrayed in the media

19:20 – High profile interviews, how did you set yours up?

21:47 – Where do you go to get your news and information?

24:30 – COVID-19, will this change how media and the general public approaches topics such as the environment and climate change?

28:30 – Talk about your story, Migration in Central America

30:48 – Were you ever afraid during your adventures? Are you fearless Erin?

35:50 – communications vs. storytelling

41:16 – Movie recommendations and photography heroes

44:00 – Do you ever see a protest that people are running away from and instead walk towards them with fascination?

45:46 – Any advice for people trying to find out what they want to do?

50:21 – What is your spirit animal?

53:00 – You are on an abandoned island, name one thing you would bring for survival, one thing to keep you occupied and one person to keep you company

54:45 – Question for Michael, do you have a preferred format of media to produce content in?

1:00:00 – Erin’s Future Projects European Cultural Parliament Future Generation and gaia LiNc.

Learn more about Erin and her work at www.Erisko.com

See this full podcast and all wobistdude content at www.wobistdude.com

Jun 22, 202001:02:17
Streetwear, Brand-building and Entrepreneurship with Ibby Adnan | (WBDP 16)

Streetwear, Brand-building and Entrepreneurship with Ibby Adnan | (WBDP 16)

Today we speak with New Jersey entrepreneur Ibby Adnan. Ibby is a longtime friend of WoBistDude and he is on the show to speak about brand building, streetwear and entrepreneurship. You can learn more about Ambitious Heights here and Tailored Ink here.

More from WoBistDude at www.wobistdude.com

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Show Notes:

1:00 – Introduction to Tailored Ink

6:00 – How do you learn about a company’s brand? What types of questions do you ask?

7:05 – Is the customer always right? Advising clients on brands and accommodating needs.

10:18 – What are the baby steps or precursors to creating a brand?

12:44 – how did you win over your first supporter or client?

15:24 – Why rebrand? What was the brand before and where do you want Ambitious Heights to go?

23:35 – How do you get honest advice and feedback?

25:17 – is there a specific way that you ask for this feedback?

26:10 – What’s it like doing business in New Brunswick? Great things? Challenges?

29:16 – working with Jersey Champs to create hub-city merchandise

30:30 – AH music

35:00 – AH Foundation

40:30 – Can you dispel a few myths about entrepreneurship?

44:00 – Could you talk about a trait that separates the clothing companies that stick around from the ones that are long gone?

46:02 – Name an artist, designer or brand that has recently influenced you

50:25 – Talk about someone that you admire but at the same time disagree with

53:52 – Rob a bank, pick 3 friends to help you do it, tell us why you would make these choices

57:34 – What will you be doing 24 hours from this call that we are on (call is happening in November 2019)

58:25 – Wrap up, where can people go to learn more about either Ambitious Heights or Tailored Ink

Jan 25, 202059:52
3rd Culture Kids, Burn Out & Sustainable Fashion | ft. Mandy Ho (WBDP 15)

3rd Culture Kids, Burn Out & Sustainable Fashion | ft. Mandy Ho (WBDP 15)

Mandy is on the WoBistDude Podcast to discuss several things including 3rd culture kids, burnout and thoughts on sustainable fashion.

Learn more about mandy @mandyho on instagram

Get the scoop on WoBistDude at www.wobistdude.com

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Show Notes:

00:25 - Introduction

01:43 - Where are you from? "But where are you really from?"

04:56 - Do you feel like you missed out on any cultural or societal things because you moved around so much in your adolescence? 

06:27 - Growing up in Germany

08:14 - What was the relocation process like in each place that you've been in, was Hong Kong different than Saigon versus Germany?

11:08 - Define the concept "third- culture kid" (TCK)

14:46 - Germany, Hong Kong, Saigon and Amsterdam -- name your favorite cuisine. 

18:05 - The international communities in these cities and meeting other third culture kids in other places.

21:09 - A new relationship with the TCK concept after learning about it from an academic perspective

23:57 - Mandy is NOT comfortable with couch surfing

25:00 - Burnout, describe your experience with it

28:03 - The mismatch between who you are and the job function

29:29 - There is pressure on young people to "have a purpose". Not knowing is okay.

30:12 - What was the situation like before, during and after the Burnout?

33:20 - Bringing the relationship along and making this big adjustment together

35:48 - Explaining the big career change and burnout to other people

37:37 - Warning signs before a burnout

38:49 - Moving from your day job towards your passion and exploring

40:09 - Mandy's introduction to sustainable fashion

43:45 - Thoughts on sustainability in fashion, consumer awareness

47:42 - Big brands fast fashion

49:00 - Who do you think is underappreciated in society?

51:06 - What topic do you think people take way too seriously?

52:50 - Tell us your spirit animal

53:30 - What would you do with 500 free euros right now?

 

Jan 06, 202055:55
Chaitanya on SRM Talks | (WBDP 14)

Chaitanya on SRM Talks | (WBDP 14)

 Show notes

SRM Talks is a student-run initiative which answers the question of how to bridge the gap between the academic study and practical application of sustainable resource management. We speak with the event’s co-founder Chaitanya Sure to see the motivation behind the creation of this initiative. Go to  https://wobistdude.com/2019/06/27/srm-talks:-interview-w-chaitanya-sure/ for more information.

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 Learn more from WoBistDude << Here.

Please take a second and give our podcast a rating! It can help us get some new ears over here!

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Table of Contents

0:17 –  An intro to Chaitanya

2:48 – The origins of SRM talks

6:35 – The criteria in choosing guest speakers

11:00 – The Q & A dynamic of the event

12:40 – Food!

15:00 – Using past experiences and organizational improvisation for SRM Talks

16:10 – Funding and volunteer organizers

20:15 – Lessons Chaitanya has taken from this experience

21:20 – A recent challenge

25:42 – Networking opportunities 

27:25 – Who is your dream guest?

31:20 – Sects within Sustainability, views on capitalism in sustainability

35:24 – Name a mentor or a role model of yours?

42:27 – the near future, the now of SRM Talks

44:40 – Chaitanya’s message for our international listeners

Sep 22, 201947:20
Tales From The Arctic Tundra | ft. Cecilia Di Bernardi (WBDP 13)

Tales From The Arctic Tundra | ft. Cecilia Di Bernardi (WBDP 13)

Ceclia is a bright young biologist + filmmaker. She comes onto the WoBistDude podcast to talk about her past experience studying the Arctic Fox, airing a documentary on National Italian TV and so much more.

Please rate our podcast if you've got a second and help us reach more ears! Thanks and much love!

Go to  https://wobistdude.com/2019/07/26/tales-from-the-arctic-tundra-|-ft-cecilia-di-bernardi-(wbdp-13)/  to learn more about WoBistDude or Cecilia. 

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Show Notes:

0:17 – Introduction

1:00 – Cecilia’s thesis

2:30 – Why the Arctic fox

3:08 – The field diary from the Norwegian Tundra

4:48 – Why is the Norwegian tundra like the moon?

6:22 – How to occupy yourself during the downtime

8:36 – Disconnecting from the world for a month and spending time with yourself

9:39 – The lifestyle of the Arctic fox, cute pups, diet and their ecosystem role

12:09 – Climate Change affecting rodent populations affecting fox populations

12:59 – What is in Arctic fox food?

13:30 – the NINA program (breeding Arctic foxes for release)

14:35 – Do you get attached to these animals before you release them?

15:44 – Why does the Arctic fox need so much conservation support?

18:39 – Which animals have tried to break in (or gotten stuck) to your feeding station?

20:30 – Did you see anything that you never expected to see in the Tundra?

22:12 – Where and when did you develop your interest in wildlife?

24:12 --  Talk about your passion for sharing this fascination via filming wildlife

28:21 – What was it like seeing your documentary air on Italian National TV?

29: 35 – Describe your story creation process for this documentary

31:45 – You occupied your highschool…and documented it?

33:06 – You have what many people consider to be a dream job. Give us the highlights and challenges of what you do?

36:12 – How can you go about making the dream job into a fulltime job?

37:38 – Do you feel that people today are disconnected from wildlife? 

39:49 – Name one of your favorite books that you read out in the field

42:30 – if you had to write a book what would you write it about?

42:51 – Could you name one of your heroes

44:47 – Tell us about your spirit animal

47:30 – You are stuck on an island, what do you bring for survival and fun and of course, who would you bring to keep you company?

Sep 08, 201951:50
Handcrafted Lessons in Entrepreneurship | ft. Allie Dietzek (WBDP 12)

Handcrafted Lessons in Entrepreneurship | ft. Allie Dietzek (WBDP 12)

For the uninitiated, we spoke with Allie Dietzek about a year ago when she was just embarking on her journey to start reign_wala, a commerce ecosystem in which the artisan can earn a more fair price for his/her handcrafted pieces.  We got her on the WoBistDude podcast to catch up and see what she's been up to.  

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Please take a second and give our podcast a rating! It can help us get some new ears over here!

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ShowNotes:

0:34 - Intro to Allie Dietzek and reign_wala

4:33 - What has happened during the past year for you and reign_wala

5:40 - What is Macrame? 

8:15 - How did you test for product fit and which markets did end up selling them in?

9:57 - Knowing which flea markets to sell reign_wala products in

15:45 - The challenge of making the online experience reflective of a market experience

17:10 - Experiences sharing profit with the artisans

25:39 - What makes a good product photo?

28:02 - How is Sunny, the first reign_wala artisan doing?

30:19 - Are the close relationships that reign_wala is built on possible for large clothing companies to achieve?

38:14 - Are you currently hiring?

41:49 - Could you name one belief you held last year that you changed your mind about and one that you reaffirmed through experience? 

45:56 - What does it feel like putting your all into something?

47:42 - Tips and tricks for traveling safely and intelligently

52:09 - Name a role model of yours

56:07 - What is your spirit animal

Aug 25, 201901:00:38
3-Way Verbal Kung-Fu | ft. Michael, Bobby & Miriam (WBDP 11)

3-Way Verbal Kung-Fu | ft. Michael, Bobby & Miriam (WBDP 11)

This is part silly-goose time, part cultural commentary and part surprise. Bobby and Miriam exchange words and questions in an interview with Michael. Topics include: adolescence, cultural differences, sustainability topics, Michael being stubborn, college life, contemporary gender topics, music, food and kung-fu dreams. 

Go here << to learn more about WoBistDude

Please rate our podcast!

Shownotes:

1:05 – intro to tidy whities

2:30 – were you aware of being the funny guy growing up?

4:50 – would you say that living in Germany has calmed you down a bit?

5:30 – Do germans have a sense of humor?

7:20 – The German stare

10:15 – Asians in Germany

11:18 – parents influencing you 

12:40 – immigration stories

14:41 – why did you go to Germany?

15:30 – Environmental movement in USA vs Germany

16:32 – Bringing sustainability to other places… USA?

21:25 – on being stubborn 

23:40 – When did you “become an adult”?

25:30 – If you’d change one thing from college years what would you hone in on? 

28:25 – highschool to college, toxic masculinity, openness with sexuality

32:23 – (for Miriam) groups of girls competing?     

36:00 – Who are the 3 people that you would bring on your bank heist?

39:17 -- What does an idea day of food look like for you?

41:10 – 5 artists, in a dream festival lineup

43:00 – what do you listen to when you workout?

45:21 – Bobby has a dream, Michael ruins it

Jun 07, 201950:46
Ben talks Politics, Writing & Life in Tel Aviv - (WBDP 10)

Ben talks Politics, Writing & Life in Tel Aviv - (WBDP 10)

Ben Rathauser is a 25 year-old student, former IDF soldier and a writer based in Tel Aviv-Jaffa, Israel. We spoke with him to get some insight into his writing, life and philosophy on handling online political discourse in 2019. 

"I think the best pieces and the pieces that are truest to me, are those that incorporate both the emotional side, which is capturing human interactions, and backing up these experiences with serious research and facts. " - Ben

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Show Notes:

0:33 – Intro

2:07 – Connection to Israel, growing up in a Zionist home

3:20 – Highschool to basic training in the IDF

4:11 – Training for the infantry unit in the Israeli unit

6:08 – Experiences taken from the time in the Israeli army

7:49 – Life in Tel Aviv 

9:05 – The recent Israeli election 

12:28 – Talking Politics with strangers

13:12 – Donald Trump from the eyes of Israelis 

15:23 – Were you always interested in learning about politics?

16:14 – Writing for “The Times of Israel” blog

18:12 – A trip to Vietnam and Israeli- Palestinian relationships 

19:38 – Entertaining opposing viewpoints in writing 

22:20 – Being attentive to internal and external emotions and incorporating this into writing. 

24:33 – Keeping a cool head when others go overboard online

29:30 – Thoughts on Nas Daily

31:29 – Journalism?

32:15 – Can you name a hero of yours?

35:22 – Can you tell us about the first time you remember getting into trouble?

36:45 – Ben shares his spirit animal

Jun 01, 201939:27
Marriage, Studentlife & the Expat Experience | ft. Grishma - (WBDP 9)

Marriage, Studentlife & the Expat Experience | ft. Grishma - (WBDP 9)

Grishma stopped by to share her life with us. We got to talk India, arranged marriages and learn a whole lot about this wonderful young woman.

To learn more, go to
www.wobistdude.com.

Show Notes:
0:15 – Intro
0:39 – Wedding blog post
0:50 – Arranged marriages in India
4:30 – The first date, between the families
8:48 – Breaking up in an arranged marriage
9:58 – Treatment of women and views towards women in India
13:10 – Female Engineers
14:35 – Perceptions of life in Germany
17:30 – Independence from parents
18:05 – This is what Grishma’s been eating for the past two years
24:20 – Sorce(students organizing conventions everywhere). Conferences around Europe
30:10 – Ideas for a podcast with a friend
32:50 – Rando questions
33:07 – one extra hour of sleep every day for life or 15 million euros right now
34:15 – Chinese Brainteaser
37:56 – Name a hero or person you admire
38:37 – What are you afraid of?
39:20 – what do you do to relax?
39:40 – Describe your favorite meal
40:45 – Grishma reveals her spirit animal
May 29, 201942:57
Getting Clean and Making Memes | ft. Nick - (WBDP 8)

Getting Clean and Making Memes | ft. Nick - (WBDP 8)

Nick is a young man, amateur grappling athlete and former decorated highschool wrestler. He comes on the podcast to detail his struggle with anxiety, depression and addiction. It is a deeply personal journey with lessons weaved in throughout. 

Fair warning- the internet connection during this podcast left something to be desired so our audio did have a few small jumps.
Learn more about Nick and/or the Wobistdude podcast at
www.wobistdude.com.

Shownotes: 

2:00 - About the Blogpost "This Polite and Sneaky Demon"

5:35 - The reactions of others and the point when the problem became real

8:05 - Getting involved with people who were up to no good

9:03 - Being mental ill and withdrawing from school on a medical leave

11:19 - The kind of people who go through substance abuse and the decisions that bring them to that point

13:30 - Being around those with like-minded goals; in a circle of positive reinforcement

15:00 - Ideas and push back on disease and addicts

18:00 - Adopting a new outlook on life to cope with dark cynical thoughts and big questions

21:28 - It doesn't get easier staying clean but it gets easier to deal with

22:23 - Going through extraordinary lengths to get high and the resultant consequences

23:10 - Breathing for your life

25:36 - Staying upbeat and maintaining a sense of humor through hardship

27:14 - Golden quote

28:09 - Looking back 

29:50 - Relapse and an irresponsible rehab facility somewhere in Las Vegas

34:54 - Misconceptions about drug addicts

37:12 - The 12 step program

42:25 - Back to the Vegas story

44:54 - A turning point

47:33 - The role of the Gym and fitness in overcoming discomfort

49:00 - Ego in competition

50:30 - We talk grappling

53:08 - Juicy J

57:48 - Working in HVAC

60:00 - Nick's blog

62:00 - Where does the meme lord get find/create his ammunition

63:48 - Spirit Animal

May 21, 201901:07:02
Running Away From Germany | ft. Chelsea - (WBDP 7)

Running Away From Germany | ft. Chelsea - (WBDP 7)

Chelsea was one of the first contributors on the WoBistDude blog. She is on today's show to talk about food, running, wildlife adventures and a whole lot more.  You can learn more about WoBistDude at www.wobistdude.com. (timestamps towards the end are a little off) 

Show Notes:

0:20  - Introduction

1:20 – Chelsea’s blog posts: how she became a runner, spongebob and moose tracks ice cream

7:20 – Chelsea’s survival guide

9:40 – Veggie to vegan

13:04 – Is honey vegan? 

16:38 – Berlin Marathon

19:30 – How to handle aggressive dogs on the road

20:37 – Sights, sounds and food from race day

27:00 – Chelsea ran in a big circle and she cried

24:25 – The move from Germany to USA (this already happened), what do you miss and where do you feel at home?

37:49 – The luxurious Queen Mary  

39:09 – Human wildlife conflicts. Man vs Cougar and more

46:03 – educating the general public about wildlife

49:48 – One word answers to some quick fire questions

50:05 – Do you have a role model in your life?

51:50 – “The Hangman’s Daughter”

53:40 – Adventure stories

54:56 – 3 people to take on your rescue team to save Berry from some bad and dangerous people 

56:53 – You have a ticket to go anywhere, where would you go?

May 14, 201957:42
Long legs, raw herring & the things you do in Amsterdam | ft. Brooke- (WBDP 6)

Long legs, raw herring & the things you do in Amsterdam | ft. Brooke- (WBDP 6)

Originally from the exotic land of corn and Lebron James, Brooke moved out of Ohio for the second time 7 months ago when she came to Amsterdam. When she’s not binging documentaries or vegan desserts (often at the same time) she loves to backpack and enjoy canalside coffees.

I met Brooke when she visited our mutual friend Massimo in Munich and she's pretty awesome so without further ado, here's our conversation.  

Shownotes:

0:00 - Intro

1:38 - Why Amsterdam?

6:10 - Reactions from friends

6:40 - Questions about weed

8:50 - Impressions of the red light district

10:00 - Merchants and morals (or lack thereof)

11:32 - Do they speak english?

13:25 - Living with tallest people in the world, and some other adjustments

15:52 - Who did you vote for in the election? 

18:03 - Misconceptions about Amsterdam and the Dutch

19:50 - Have you changed? 

20:33 - Dutch Fashion

21:55 - The dating scene in Amsterdam

26:10 - Raw herring

27:30 - What did living in Europe teach you about being an American?

31:08 - Brooke digs into the memory hole and pulls out a curse word

34:48 - Carrying over a hobby from USA

36:20 - Funky questions

36:50 - Chinese brain teaser

39:30 - Bank Robbery Question

40:48 - Series recommendation

41:51 - Michael cried one time

42:07 - Brooke reveals her spirit animal and her powerful pun game


Apr 05, 201945:19
Wade on Monkeys, Scorpions, Chopsticks and Love - (WBDP 5)

Wade on Monkeys, Scorpions, Chopsticks and Love - (WBDP 5)

Almost a decade ago, Wade Million got up from his desk job and left to see the world. Here's a conversation and a peek into some of the adventures and insights that he gained during his travels. As always, you can find the goodies at  https://wobistdude.com/.To see some of Wade's amazing photography go to  http://www.blueramble.com


Shownotes 

0:30 - Intro

0:50 - What Wade was doing before he left to see the world

3:18 - Teaching English Abroad

6:15 - China

9:00 - How to chopsticks (culinary adventures)

10:35 - How do families and people relate to each other where you were staying?

12:30 - The Chinese version of Facebook, government controlled web searches and social media

15:15 - Discussing the current Chinese public rating system

17:00 - Going all in, selling all your stuff and living out of a backpack

18:00 - Finding a purpose while traveling

20:20 - The Geese population is exploding, wade is here to help

27:39 - Black Crested Macaques in Indonesia

35:19 - Which parts of travel are over romanticized?

37:00 - Unexpected parts of travel 

38:56 - What's it like to date people when you are not tied down to any physical location? 

42:00 - Settling down, building a homebase

44:00 - Wade's spirit animal

44:45 - What is one thing you will not eat and why won't you eat it?

46:00 - Recommend a book to us

49:55 - Rob a bank, pick 3 people for your team








Mar 28, 201951:56
Bobby talks Brad Pitt, Jesse James and Life in Dublin - (WBDP 4)

Bobby talks Brad Pitt, Jesse James and Life in Dublin - (WBDP 4)

Bobby is a longtime friend of Michael. In this podcast they shoot the shit, catch-up and talk about Bobby's life in Dublin, Ireland.

You can read Bobby's WoBistDude blog posts here: 

Cooling Tower, The Mystery Matinee, The State That Im In

Check out the www.wobistdude.com for a variety or stories perspectives from around the world. 

Shownotes: 

1:00 - Intro
2:33 - Irish literature to a life in Dublin
4:33 - Bobby found love on tinder
7:00 - Transportation in Ireland
8:30 - Mom's reaction to living abroad
10:00 - Recent life update: Bob's new role as sales manager
11:15 - The impossible burger
14:10 - Korean Movie, "Burning"
18:30 - What did Michael have for dinner?
19:53 - The origins of "Ke-Bobby"
22:10 - Something uniquely Irish
23:50 - How to be a tourist in Dublin
26:43 - Gaelic sports
30:46 - Quirky questions begin
30:52 - What is your spirit animal?
32:23 - What is one thing you won't eat?
35:14 - Name your favorite Movie, Book and Song, then explain the common theme
38:50 - Tell us about the first time you remember getting in trouble
40:00 - Pick 3 people to rob a bank with
43:50 - How do you relax?
45:39 - Bob asks Michael, what he would do if he retired...tonight
46:35 - Bob asks about WoBistDude

Mar 17, 201949:24
Miriam on Interracial Dating, Anxiety and Hugging Trees - (WBDP 3)

Miriam on Interracial Dating, Anxiety and Hugging Trees - (WBDP 3)

DESCRIPTION

This episode of the WoBistDude podcast spans a wide variety of topics from anxiety and panic attacks, to the environmental movement to dating a foreigner. Michael sits down with Miriam, a student and tree hugger living in Munich, Germany. Miriam enjoys Yoga, books and science documentaries.

Please follow the WoBistDude social media accounts @wobistdude on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. The full versions of our content can be found at wobistdude.com

More from Miriam at @maidmrm on Twitter and Instagram.


Notes:

00:35 Talking about Miriam's blog post on anxiety and panic attacks

05:48 How to help someone who has a panic attack

06:45 What does it feel like to have a panic attack

08:40 Stigma of anxiety being a sign of weakness

11:19 Being in a relationship with someone who has anxiety

14:40 How to better deal with anxiety and panic attacks


16:35 Talking to trees and building a connection to nature

20:55 Visiting a lignite mining site

26:45 Concrete is not sexy

31:30 Do everything right or stop trying? Judgement by environmentalists


36:28 Dating an Asian American - stereotypes and stares

40:20 Misunderstandings and language barriers


43:25 Quick fire questions


ADDITIONAL INFO

Netflix documentary on corals - "Chasing Coral"

Book mentioned - A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara

Movie mentioned - Vincent will Meer

Mar 09, 201949:28
Empty House Man, Stephen Bates - (WBDP 2)

Empty House Man, Stephen Bates - (WBDP 2)

Stephen Bates is a young man who is bringing empty buildings back into use by addressing the personal and financial issues in housing.

He best describes what he does as: "It's a people's game. Getting to know the people is the important part... I really do believe that property is secondary".

More from Empty House Man here: https://www.facebook.com/emptyhouseman/

WoBistDude here:
www.wobistdude.com

Show Notes:

0:00 - Intro

3:40 - First time you went to someone's door

11:00 - Current Project

16:00 - Housing issues in big international cities

18:44 - Addressing personal issues in housing

20:00 - Arguing over measurement systems with Michael

22:00 - The perspective of a landlord + advice for young tenants

27:30 - Fun Little Questions

27:50 - Who do you think is underappreciated in society

30:30 - What annoys you?

35:20 - If money was no longer an issue what would you do first?

39:00 - 200 miles on a skateboard

44:18 - A book, a movie and a musical piece

Feb 05, 201954:12
Mischa's Got Milk - (WBDP 1)

Mischa's Got Milk - (WBDP 1)

In the first episode of the WoBistDude Podcast, Michael sits down with Mischa, the inventor of a brand new product which seeks to blend the pursuits of nutrition and sustainability into one package. 

Please follow the wobistdude social media accounts @wobistdude on facebook, instagram and twitter. 

The full versions of our content can be found at wobistdude.com

Profile: Mischa is a young entrepreneur living outside of Munich, Germany. He is currently working on a plant-based, milk substitute. Mischa enjoys rock climbing, hiking and a variety of outdoor activities. 

To learn more about Mischa, please reach out to Michael at wobistdude.blog@gmail.com 


Table of Contents:

1:30 - An early experiment with being vegetarian

2:50 - The origins of Mischa's Milk

10:00 - Experiments with diet

15:40 - Vegans, opinions and the political nature of food

21:00 - Stumbles and difficult points in product development

23:00 - Master Thesis Issues

24:00 - Startup Weekend

27:00 - Hiring

30:00 - Product Development 

32:00 - Applying for a grant

35:00 - Dealing with criticism

39:00 - The current (late 2018) product

40:40 - Mischa hits the table 3 times

41: 00 - Target Group

42:00 - Advice to younger self

45:00 - Coping with the emotional ups and downs

48:35 - Book recommendation on the topic of balance

53:00 - Quick fire questions

56:00 - The first time mischa got in trouble

59:00 - 3 favorite books, movies or people


Jan 16, 201901:05:02