Life as a..

EP46: ”Life as a CEO | Founder of a Tech Startup” with guest Laura Simpson of Side Door

Join host Christopher Schoenwald of the Podcast, “LIFE AS A..” as he chats with Laura Simpson the CEO and co-founder (along with musical artist, Dan Mangan) of Side Door, a Canadian tech startup.
The platform marketplace is built to connect artists with curators, venues, service providers and audiences to make booking, ticketing and payments easy, fair and transparent.
Reasons to Listen:
The conversation meanders in and around a number of insightful topics which help shed light on life running a tech startup:
*Challenges and opportunities of operating in two different worlds (musical artistry | corporate)
*Early beginnings and influences which shaped her entrepreneurial path
*How her co-founder Dan Mangan‘s involvement came to be
*A memorable and invaluable four month mentorship experience in LA
*Useful character traits someone or at the very least teams should have in the music tech startup world
*Stories on how Laura and her company managed the pandemic
*A touching story bringing together business, music and personal sentiments
*Conjecture on the future of music as it pertains to its relationship with technology
To learn more about Laura and her work, you can check her out here:
Website 
Twitter 
LinkedIn 
Instagram 
FRIENDLY REMINDERS:
And hey! Why don't you subscribe on YouTube! As you'll see, our subscriber numbers are in need of a little boost! If you haven't done so already, help the program out by giving it some love.
*Hit the subscribe button on YouTube PLEASE. :)
I'd highly appreciate it! 
-Christopher
*You can follow LIFE AS A.. on your favourite social platforms via these links:
Youtube
Instagram: 
Linkedin:
Twitter:
Facebook: 
To learn more about the program, visit the website www.life-as-a.com or https://linktr.ee/life_as_a_podcast 

EP45: ”Life as an Acclaimed Scholar, Writer & Producer“ with guest Reza Aslan

Join host Christopher Schoenwald of the Podcast, “LIFE AS A..” as he chats with Reza Aslan; a NY Times best selling author, an Emmy- and Peabody-nominated producer, as well as a widely respected scholar and expert on world religions. Reza also co-hosts the popular podcast Metaphysical Milkshake with actor / producer Rainn Wilson.
Reasons to Listen:
In this entertainingly poignant conversation, listeners will be treated to a fascinating discussion on religion encompassing takes on its present standing, role and value within society.
Reza also shares his own unique professional positioning as an academic who strives to make his findings accessible by way of producing best selling books, and decorated television and film productions on matters related to his expertise.
Listeners will also get a fascinating look at his soon to be released and latest book, An American Martyr in Persia: The Epic Life and Tragic Death of Howard Baskerville.
All up, this episode offers listeners a gateway into thought on a topic that permeates, shapes and influences much of the world we live within.
I'd highly encourage everyone to have a listen. You won't be disappointed.
To learn more about Reza and his work, you can check him out here:
Website 
Twitter: 
LinkedIn: 
FRIENDLY REMINDERS:
And hey! Why don't you subscribe on YouTube! As you'll see, our subscriber numbers are in need of a little boost! If you haven't done so already, help the program out by giving it some love.
*Hit the subscribe button on YouTube PLEASE. :)
I'd highly appreciate it! 
-Christopher
*You can follow LIFE AS A.. on your favourite social platforms via these links:
Youtube
Instagram: 
Linkedin:
Twitter:
Facebook: 
To learn more about the program, visit the website www.life-as-a.com or https://linktr.ee/life_as_a_podcast 

EP44: “Life as a Pulitzer Prize Awarded Investigative Journalist” with guest Margot Williams

Join host Christopher Schoenwald of the Podcast, “LIFE AS A..” as he chats with Margot Williams, a highly accomplished and widely respected figure in the world of investigative journalism.
Introducing:
Margot Williams is the Research Editor for Investigations at The Intercept an esteemed and awarded non-profit news organization which has been responsible for the exposing of some of the biggest leaks and truths this past century.
Career:
Her career as an investigative journalist has involved her in the tracking of jihadis online and detainees who died in U.S. immigration detention, investigations of Iraq war contractors, and the following of money (and private jets) of mayors, governors, senators, presidential candidates, and ex-presidents.
Further, Margot has been involved in several projects that were leaks of classified or sensitive business information, including the Snowden documents. Margot has spent time at the Washington Post, New York Times, NPR, and the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists—with the latter being one of the most respected organizations in the investigative reporting world. Margot has literally seen it all.
Reasons to Listen:
This is a rare peek into the world of investigative journalism via a guest who has been excelling in this field for years. The conversation covers a wide array of topics not limited to an unlikely origin story, the exploration of some of the finer distinctions of the job, as well as philosophical looks at what the work has come to represent what it continues to mean to her.
Finally, notions of how the industry is evolving are also thoroughly discussed. Whether you are a journalist or not, this is a talk that anyone could easily find themselves immersed within. To learn more about Margot and her work, you can check her out here:
The Intercept 
LinkedIn 
Twitter 
FRIENDLY REMINDERS:
And hey! Why don't you subscribe on YouTube! As you'll see, our subscriber numbers are in need of a little boost! If you haven't done so already, help the program out by giving it some love.
*Hit the subscribe button on YouTube PLEASE. :)
I'd highly appreciate it! 
-Christopher
*You can follow LIFE AS A.. on your favourite social platforms via these links:
Youtube
Instagram: 
Linkedin:
Twitter:
Facebook: 
To learn more about the program, visit the website www.life-as-a.com or https://linktr.ee/life_as_a_podcast 

EP43: “Life as a Motion Picture Industry Sustainability Consultant” with guest Zena Harris

Join host Christopher Schoenwald of the Podcast, “LIFE AS A..” as he chats with Zena Harris, an industry influencer and leader within the world of sustainability and the motion picture industry at large.🌱 Introducing:Zena Harris is the bold visionary, founder and president of the Green Spark Group, a Vancouver based sustainability consulting firm that serves the motion picture industry in the United States and Canada.Zena has worked with studios such as AppleTV, Amazon, Disney, Fox, HBO and others to implement sustainable practices on film and TV shows.
She is also the creative director of the Sustainable Production Forum and participates on several industry committees in the USA, Canada, and internationally.
🎥 Reasons to Listen:In this fascinating conversation, listeners are treated to a discussion centred not only on Zena’s own professional development and experiences, but also a break down of this industry in so far as how it is developing to cope with the environmental challenges we all presently face.🌱 Zena’s stories and insights are inspiring on many levels. As an aside, she also shares how an early work experience on the set of “The X-Files” truly solidified her belief in the possibility of this industry being utterly capable of finding ways to be more effective in producing content in a more environmentally responsible manner.The talk is full of insight start to finish and I’d encourage anyone looking to better understand this industry and its future to have a listen!
To learn more about Zena and her work, you can check her out here:
Website
Instagram 
LinkedIn 
Twitter
Sustainable Production Forum
FRIENDLY REMINDERS:
And hey! Why don't you subscribe on YouTube! As you'll see, our subscriber numbers are in need of a little boost! If you haven't done so already, help the program out by giving it some love.
*Hit the subscribe button on YouTube PLEASE. :)
I'd highly appreciate it! 
-Christopher
*You can follow LIFE AS A.. on your favourite social platforms via these links:
Youtube
Instagram: 
Linkedin:
Twitter:
Facebook: 
To learn more about the program, visit the website www.life-as-a.com or https://linktr.ee/life_as_a_podcast 

EP42: “Life as a Documentary Photographer” with guest Régis Defurnaux

Join host Christopher Schoenwald of the Podcast, “LIFE AS A..” as he chats with Régis Defurnaux, a widely respected, awarded and accomplished documentary photographer.
Introducing:
Régis Defurnaux's works have been widely exhibited around the world in various exhibitions including Mall Gallery in London, European Parliament, Palais des Expositions in Montreal, National Institute of Art History in Paris, Ecole du Louvre and Cultural Centre of the Embassy of Japan.
His documentary photography work specifically for NGO’s including the United Nations, Save the Children, The Red Cross, Atina has been centred on documenting operations relating to gender-based violence, asylum seekers, disaster recovery programs, PTSD, rights advocacy, religious discrimination, women empowerment, war experiences, environmental sustainability and child protection amongst many others.
Reasons to Listen:
In this unequivocally deep and profound talk, Régis expresses the meaning he philosophically attaches to being a documentary photographer. Along with that, he provides practical facts and details pertaining to assignment preparation, timelines and itineraries.
His visceral stories and takeaway reflections from many of his projects including the covering of Maiko's in Japan, his work on a national campaign against domestic violence in Mongolia, his coverage of female soldiers in Iraq and his observations while on assignment in the Balkans are ever so stirring.
The talk itself is immensely engaging from start to finish. With the topic matter being such that it is in level of importance and significance, listeners may find Régis' words sitting with them for some time.
To learn more about Régis Defurnaux and his work, you can check him out here:
Personal Website
Instagram 
LinkedIn 
FRIENDLY REMINDERS:
And hey! Why don't you subscribe on YouTube! As you'll see, our subscriber numbers are in need of a little boost! If you haven't done so already, help the program out by giving it some love.
*Hit the subscribe button on YouTube PLEASE. :)
I'd highly appreciate it! 
-Christopher
*You can follow LIFE AS A.. on your favourite social platforms via these links:
Youtube
Instagram: 
Linkedin:
Twitter:
Facebook: 
To learn more about the program, visit the website www.life-as-a.com or https://linktr.ee/life_as_a_podcast 

EP41: “Life as a Filmmaking Director’s Assistant” with guest Elena Omura

Join host Christopher Schoenwald of the Podcast, “LIFE AS A..” as he chats with Elena Omura, a Director's Assistant who has worked on some major filmmaking productions including an Amazon Prime Video mega hit. 
Introducing:
Elena Omura is an aspiring writer and director. Having attended Prague Film School, she deftly found her way into a major Amazon Prime Video production in the role of Director’s Assistant.As of recording, this show was the most watched series premiere of 2021 and one of the Top 5 series launches all time for Prime Video.So yeah, Elena has been part of a professional experience that not many of us could claim to fully comprehend.Reasons to Listen:In this fascinating conversation we dive into the weeds of filmmaking starting with an in depth look at the role of a DA or director’s assistant in the world of film.The conversation also meanders into topics on finding inspiration within filmmaking as well as that of advice to those looking for ways to build out an idea or concept into a filmmaking project.The talk will truly be of interest to anyone with even a casual interest in the filmmaking scene and even more valuable to those who may have their own writing or directing aspirations but are just starting out.
To learn more about Elena and her work, you can check her out here:
Instagram
FRIENDLY REMINDERS:
You can also check some WORDS of Wisdom Elena provides on YouTube!
And hey! Why don't you subscribe on YouTube! As you'll see, our subscriber numbers are in need of a little boost! If you haven't done so already, help the program out by giving it some love.
*Hit the subscribe button on YouTube PLEASE. :)
I'd highly appreciate it! 
-Christopher
*You can follow LIFE AS A.. on your favourite social platforms via these links:
Youtube
Instagram: 
Linkedin:
Twitter:
Facebook: 
To learn more about the program, visit the website www.life-as-a.com or https://linktr.ee/life_as_a_podcast 
 

EP40: “Life as an Eco-Capitalist and Entrepreneur” with guest Scott Fulbright

Join host Christopher Schoenwald of the Podcast, “LIFE AS A..” as he chats with Scott Fulbright, the co-founder of Living Ink Technologies, a biomaterials company turning waste-algae into sustainable pigments and inks.
Reasons to Listen
In this rich conversation listeners will surely acquire and or recharge levels of hope pertaining to humanity getting things right environmentally speaking.
Scott's own description of his business and his sharing of industry chatter relating to cyclical economies and regenerative approaches provide much of this optimism.
The talk is a solid reminder that there are pathways forward which incorporate both capitalistic models and sustainable approaches to managing our place on this planet.
Scott also dives into the weeds as he shares his early beginnings as a scientist and how he transitioned into the world of business and eco-capitalism.
In doing so, he offers up tips and insights for startups just entering this world as far as messaging and strategic steps to increase the likelihood of success.
Not only that, listeners will be able to share in the excitement of a company on the cusp of even bigger things through Scott's stories of working with the likes of Patagonia, Nike, American Eagle and others and all that he learned in doing so.
Summing things up, the talk will be of value to anyone looking to transition from academia to entrepreneurship or those looking for a punch of both inspiration and optimism relating to the future.
To learn more about Scott and his work, you can check him out here:
Living Ink Technologies
LinkedIn
Instagram
Twitter
FRIENDLY REMINDERS:
If you'd like, you can WATCH the full conversation on YouTube.
And hey! Why don't you subscribe on YouTube! As you'll see, our subscriber numbers are in need of a little boost! If you haven't done so already, help the program out by giving it some love.
*Hit the subscribe button on YouTube PLEASE. :)
I'd appreciate it! 
-Christopher
*You can follow LIFE AS A.. on your favourite social platforms via these links:
Youtube
Instagram: 
Linkedin:
Twitter:
Facebook: 
To learn more about the program, visit the website www.life-as-a.com or https://linktr.ee/life_as_a_podcast 

EP39: Life as an Ad Agency Global Head of Influencer Marketing with guest Rish Gopal

Join host Christopher Schoenwald of the Podcast, “LIFE AS A..” as he chats with Rish Gopal, a Global Head of Influencer Marketing working at one of the largest and most respected ad agencies in the world. 
Introducing:
Rish Gopal is the Global Head of Social Media & Influencer Marketing for the Publicis Groupe. He currently leads Content and Social Media at Publicis Japan for Global and Local bands.
Background and Experience:
With 13+ years’ experience of creating and implementing digital first strategies for FMCG, Hospitality, Food & Beverage, Technology, Automotive, Beauty, and Tele-communication brands, Rish has had his skills and abilities utilized and translated into tangible results. He has been part of core teams that have captured prestigious advertising industry awards such as Cannes Lions, AME’s and Campaign Asia Awards.
Reasons to Listen:
In this timely conversation which covers one of the most defining elements of life in the 21st century, Rish both entertainingly and expertly explains why social media is such a powerful tool and why brands have embraced it.
Further, listeners will also learn more about this convoluted and ever evolving definition of “influencer marketing” and what it truly means to someone who is immersed in that world.
If you’d like a better understanding of a social phenomena that is likely here to stay, this conversation will be well worth your time.
Finally, to learn more about Rish and his work, you can check him out here:
LinkedIn
FRIENDLY REMINDERS:
If you'd like, you can WATCH the full conversation on YouTube.
And hey! Why don't you subscribe on YouTube! As you'll see, our subscriber numbers are in need of a little boost! If you haven't done so already, help the program out by giving it some love.
*Hit the subscribe button on YouTube PLEASE. :)
I'd appreciate it! 
-Christopher
*You can follow LIFE AS A.. on your favourite social platforms via these links:
Youtube
Instagram: 
Linkedin:
Twitter:
Facebook: 
To learn more about the program, visit the website www.life-as-a.com or https://linktr.ee/life_as_a_podcast 

EP38: Life as a Boating Focussed Ecopreneur with guest Tom Ward

Join host Christopher Schoenwald of the Podcast, “LIFE AS A..” as he chats with Epoch Boats Cofounder and CEO Tom Ward. 
Introducing: 
Tom Ward is a boating focussed ecopreneur and the cofounder and CEO of Epoch Boats, a climate tech company that is building a new generation of recreational boats.
Background and Positioning: 
These vessels I might add, are not equipped with your standard hull and outboard gas guzzling features you may be familiar with.Tom and the Epoch team are developing battery electric hydrofoil boats with bidirectional charging capability in an effort to convert boating from being an outsized source of pollution to a net positive for the environment.
Reasons to Listen:
Listeners will hear about the current state of the marine industry from a circular economy perspective and why it’s not only imperative for it all to shift green but why it makes complete financial sense to do so.Tom so kindly provides insights into many other topics as well such as product engineering, entrepreneurship, and his own journey amongst many other talking points. Tune in for this and much more!
To learn more about Tom and his work, you can check him out here:
Website
LinkedIn
Twitter
Instagram
Facebook
 
FRIENDLY REMINDERS:
If you'd like, you can WATCH the full conversation on YouTube.
And hey! Why don't you subscribe on YouTube! As you'll see, our subscriber numbers are in need of a little boost! If you haven't done so already, help the program out by giving it some love.
*Hit the subscribe button on YouTube PLEASE. :)
I'd appreciate it! 
-Christopher
*You can follow LIFE AS A.. on your favourite social platforms via these links:
Youtube
Instagram: 
Linkedin:
Twitter:
Facebook: 
To learn more about the program, visit the website www.life-as-a.com or https://linktr.ee/life_as_a_podcast 

EP37: Life as a Commercial Pilot with guest Larissa Klee

Join host Christopher Schoenwald of the Podcast, “LIFE AS A..” as he chats with an Air Canada pilot and guest Larissa Klee.  
Introducing: 
Larissa Klee is an Air Canada commercial airline pilot, aircraft simulator instructor, aviation human factors facilitator, and avid travel junkie.
Background and Role: 
Leading up to being hired at Canada’s national airline—Air Canada—Larissa had the opportunity to fly smaller aircraft across the country, including extensively in Northern Ontario and the eastern arctic, and also several countries in Africa.
She will celebrate her 10 year anniversary as a pilot at Air Canada this August and currently flies the Boeing 787 Dreamliner. Furthermore, she instructs other pilots in the flight simulator, facilitates human factors training for her fellow pilots, and volunteers on the Air Canada pilots association’s pension committee. 
Reasons to Listen:
In this fast moving talk Larissa shares her own story in becoming a commercial airline pilot including many of the challenges along the way. Her insights will undoubtedly be a source of assistance to those looking to enter the profession within Canada or elsewhere.
Listeners will also be brought up to speed on how the airline industry is changing and adapting to meet the needs of modern day travel.
The talk also does not shy away from the airline industry’s poor track record relating to gender and ethnic diversity issues. Larissa so kindly shares her thoughts on these matters as well.
Finally, we look at the future of the profession and why the thought of tech taking over the role of piloting a plane is not a slam dunk next step within this industry just yet.
 
FRIENDLY REMINDERS:
If you'd like, you can catch some extra insights and advice Larissa provides to those looking to break into the profession through a Words of Wisdom segment on YouTube.
And hey! Why don't you subscribe on YouTube! As you'll see, our subscriber numbers are in need of a little boost! If you haven't done so already, help the program out by giving it some love.
*Hit the subscribe button on YouTube PLEASE. :)
I'd appreciate it! 
-Christopher
 
*You can follow LIFE AS A.. on your favourite social platforms via these links:
Youtube
Instagram: 
Linkedin:
Twitter:
Facebook: 
To learn more about the program, visit the website www.life-as-a.com or https://linktr.ee/life_as_a_podcast