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Life as a..
Life as a..
Author: Christopher Schoenwald
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Finding your dream job starts with knowing your options. Since 2021, LIFE AS A.. has been hosting conversations with professionals and entrepreneurs from around the globe in order to uncover real life insights and career opportunities.
The show delves into fascinating job details, hidden insights, stories and of course, the ways in which the work rubs off on people’s lives.
A sampling of guests have included a Pulitzer Prize winning investigative journalist, NY Times best-selling authors, an International Space Station Commander, scientific experts, top CEO’s, to public figures like actor Rainn Wilson, F1 voice Will Buxton and Latif Nasser of Radiolab amongst others.
Looking for your first job, searching for direction in your career, or just a curious soul? Join Christopher Schoenwald, and our expert guests every week for job search inspiration, and actionable advice to help you find work that matters!
You could literally be one listen away from finding your dream job!
The show delves into fascinating job details, hidden insights, stories and of course, the ways in which the work rubs off on people’s lives.
A sampling of guests have included a Pulitzer Prize winning investigative journalist, NY Times best-selling authors, an International Space Station Commander, scientific experts, top CEO’s, to public figures like actor Rainn Wilson, F1 voice Will Buxton and Latif Nasser of Radiolab amongst others.
Looking for your first job, searching for direction in your career, or just a curious soul? Join Christopher Schoenwald, and our expert guests every week for job search inspiration, and actionable advice to help you find work that matters!
You could literally be one listen away from finding your dream job!
163 Episodes
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What’s it like to be a working actor?
In this episode of LIFE AS A.., we sit down with Curt Doussett — career actor, television host, and improv comedy expert whose work spans stage, screen, and studio.
With credits in Everwood, Touched by an Angel, and Discovery Channel’s Hazard Pay, Curt shares the real story behind a life in entertainment.
From early beginnings in improv to navigating the unpredictable world of acting, he offers candid advice, essential tips, and the realities Hollywood doesn’t show you.
💡 Perfect for aspiring actors, entertainers, and creatives chasing their acting career dreams.
🎧 Full AUDIO conversation here: https://www.life-as-a.com/
To learn more about Curt and his work, be sure to check out the following:
Website
LinkedIn
**Check out more career options over at LIFE AS A.. and don't forget to Follow LIFE AS A.. on your favourite social platforms including:
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What’s it really like to be an architect today?
Go beyond blueprints in this episode of LIFE AS A.. with Javier Villar Ruiz — a globally recognized architect who’s worked across Europe and Asia, including at Kengo Kuma & Associates.
Discover the real-life rewards, challenges, and nuances of architecture — from designing UNESCO-listed interiors to launching his own studio.
Gain insight into the daily realities of the field, how collaboration shapes design, and advice for aspiring architects.
🎧 Listen now and get inspired by a truly global architectural journey!
To learn more about Javier and his work, be sure to check out the following:
Website
LinkedIn
Instagram
**Check out more career options over at LIFE AS A.. and don't forget to Follow LIFE AS A.. on your favourite social platforms including:
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What does it really mean to be a school principal—especially as an expat in a country like Mexico?
In this episode of LIFE AS A.., we sit down with Jack Little, head of Winpenny School in Mexico City, to explore the realities of school leadership abroad.
*From leading across cultures to navigating educational innovation
*A day in the life of being an international school principal
*Direct advice for aspiring school leaders and educators
If you're curious about careers in international education or school leadership, this episode is packed with insight!
To learn more about Jack and his work, be sure to check out the following:
LinkedIn
**Check out more career options over at LIFE AS A.. and don't forget to Follow LIFE AS A.. on your favourite social platforms including:
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If you’ve ever wondered what it’s really like to be a firefighter in today’s world—from the adrenaline of emergency calls to the quieter moments of service—this is a must-listen!
Get real-world advice from a seasoned pro who’s lived it.
In this episode of LIFE AS A.., we sit down with Ralph Weick, a career firefighter in Prince Rupert, BC, Canada to explore the realities of emergency service, resilience, and purpose-driven work.
🔥 From over 4,000 emergency calls to redefining purpose after injury
🏔 How geography and community shape the role of a firefighter
💡 Real-world advice for anyone considering this high-stakes profession
Whether you’re curious about firefighting, emergency services, or navigating major career pivots — this one’s for you.
To learn more about Ralph and his work, be sure to check out the following:
LinkedIn
**Check out more career options over at LIFE AS A.. and don't forget to Follow LIFE AS A.. on your favourite social platforms including:
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🎬 Ever wonder what it really takes to become a successful TV director?
In this episode of LIFE AS A.., we sit down with Shannon Flynn, a four-time Emmy Award-winning television director whose credits span Disney Channel, Netflix, HBO, AppleTV, and more.
From Sesame Street to Blippi, she shares what it's like directing major shows, working with celebrity talent, and navigating the fast-paced world of television production.
💡 Discover key career insights, challenges on set, and how to thrive in this competitive field.
A must-listen for future filmmakers, creatives, and media pros!
To learn more about Shannon and her work, be sure to check out the following:
LinkedIn
IMDB
**Check out more career options over at LIFE AS A.. and don't forget to Follow LIFE AS A.. on your favourite social platforms including:
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What does a career in optometry actually look like?
In this episode of LIFE AS A.., we sit down with Dr. Deborah Wang, Director of Career Development at SUNY College of Optometry, to explore the wide-reaching world of vision care and professional growth in healthcare.
👁 From clinical practice to shaping young optometrists’ futures
📚 Behind the scenes carving out a career in optometry
💡 Real-world advice for aspiring optometrists and healthcare professionals
Whether you’re a student, career changer, or curious professional, this episode is packed with valuable insights!
To learn more about Dr. Wang and her work, be sure to check out the following:
LinkedIn
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If you’re curious about what it takes to turn passion, purpose, and global perspective into a thriving rural revitalization business—this is a must-listen!
Get direct insights from someone actually doing it.
What does it really take to build a mission-driven business in the Japanese countryside?
In this episode of LIFE AS A.., we sit down with Kira Bella rural revitalization entrepreneur and founder of Kirameki, to explore how she’s blending sustainability, cultural preservation, and community building in a remote Japanese town.
🌏 From 41 countries traveled to finding purpose in rural Japan
🎥 How her videos reached 4M+ views and earned her a tourism ambassador role
💡 Advice on using social media to build community, business, and impact
Whether you're a purpose-driven professional, aspiring entrepreneur, or just curious about a different way of life—this one’s for you.
To learn more about Kira and her business, be sure to check out the following:
Kirameki
LinkedIn
Instagram
TikTok
YouTube
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What does it really take to turn personal adversity into groundbreaking innovation?
In this episode of LIFE AS A.., we sit down with Katarina Maloney, biotech entrepreneur and founder of IQMIND, to uncover how her journey through traumatic brain injury led to building a company at the edge of science and tech.
🧠 From life-altering injury to launching a cutting-edge neurotech startup
🤝 Partnering with Red Bull, Harvard, and Yale to push brain performance forward
💡 Expert insights on mission-driven entrepreneurship and biotech innovation
Whether you're a startup founder, student, or purpose-driven professional, this episode is full of powerful takeaways!
To learn more about Katarina and her business, be sure to check out the following:
IQMIND
LinkedIn
Instagram
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What does it really take to run a successful restaurant—and scale beyond it?
In this episode of LIFE AS A.., we sit down with Jared Ferrall, founder of Crafty Ramen, to uncover the highs, lows, and unexpected turns of the restaurant business.
🍜 From Michelin-starred kitchens to launching a frozen ramen empire
🌏 How traveling the world helped Jared hone his culinary craft
💡 Expert insights on scaling from restaurant to retail
Whether you're a foodie, aspiring entrepreneur, or business owner, this episode is packed with insights!
To learn more about Jared and his business, be sure to check out the following:
Crafty Ramen
Linkedin
TikTok
Instagram
Facebook
YouTube
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🚀 What does it take to build and scale an AI-powered tech company?
In this episode of LIFE AS A.., we sit down with Adam Nathan, Founder & CEO of Blaze, an AI-driven marketing tool that skyrocketed to $7M+ in revenue in just 15 months.
💡 Insights on AI & Entrepreneurship:
🔹 The realities of building an AI startup from scratch
🔹 Lessons from scaling and securing $46M in funding
🔹 Why NOW is the best time to launch a business
If you’re curious about AI, tech startups, or the future of work, this is a must-listen!
To learn more about Adam and his business, be sure to check out the following:
Blaze
Linkedin
Instagram
X
Get Blaze CEO Adam Nathan's cheat codes to building and growing a $150M company in your inbox every week with Startup Tycoon. Powered by Adam's experience shipping product to millions, raising $46M, and hyper scaling to $7M+ in revenue in 15 months with only 25 people. Subscribe here
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What’s it like to be a zoo veterinarian—especially in a foreign country? 🐾🌏
In this LIFE AS A.. episode, we explore the fascinating world of zoological medicine with Miaka Ogawa, an Associate Veterinarian at Kobe Animal Kingdom in Japan.
🐾 A Day in the Life – Discover the realities of caring for exotic animals.
🔍 Career Insights – Explore career paths for veterinary science graduates.
💡 Expert Advice – Learn what it takes to thrive as a zoo vet.
If you love animals and are curious about veterinary careers, this is a must-listen!
Tune in for all of this and more!
To learn more about Miaka and her work, be sure to check out the following:
Linkedin
Instagram
Kobe Animal Kingdom
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What does it take to become a Careers Development Specialist?
In this LIFE AS A... episode, Ladi Mohammed shares her journey in career guidance and employability development, offering a rare glimpse into this impactful and evolving profession.
🎓 Day in the Life: Discover the realities of shaping education and career pathways.
🌍 Career Insights: Learn how global trends and AI are transforming career development.
💡 Expert Advice: Hear Ladi’s guidance for those looking to enter the field.
If you're passionate about helping others find their path, this is a must-listen!
Tune in for all of this and more!
To learn more about Ladi Mohammed and her work, be sure to check out the following:
Linkedin
GETT
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SEARCH: @lifeasa..
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Life as a Plastic Surgeon
What does it take to become a plastic surgeon? In this LIFE AS A... episode, Dr. Halperin Ben Ami shares her journey in aesthetic and reconstructive surgery, offering a rare glimpse into this challenging yet rewarding medical field.
🏥 Day in the Life: Explore the realities of performing surgeries and patient care.
🔬 Career Insights: Learn about professional options within the field of plastic surgery practice.
🚀 Tech Insights: Learn about the evolving role of technology and AI in plastic surgery.
💡 Expert Advice: Hear Dr. Halperin’s guidance for aspiring plastic surgeons.
If you're curious about the world of plastic surgery, this is a must-listen!
Tune in for all of this and more!
To learn more about Dr. Halperin Ben Ami and her work, be sure to check out the following:
Linkedin
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SEARCH: @lifeasa..
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Life as an Accomplished Puppeteer
Step into the magical world of professional puppetry with six-time Emmy nominee Leslie Carrara-Rudolph, best known as the performer behind Abby Cadabby and Elmo’s dog Tango on Sesame Street!
Get ready to hear insights on the following, plus much more!
Professional Puppetry - Breaking It All Down!
Puppetry Mastery - Tips to Succeed
Leslie's Pathway into Puppetry
A Day in the Life on Sesame Street
Other Work Insights off Sesame Street
Advice & Tips for Those Interested in Professional Puppetry
Guest Appearances From Some Cute and Cuddly Friends
Much more!
From creating original shows to bringing beloved characters to life, this conversation is perfect for aspiring puppeteers and fans of performance artistry!
Tune in for all of this and more!
To learn more about Leslie and her work, be sure to check out the following:
Leslie's Portfolio Website
Humor With a Heart
Linkedin
Instagram
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SEARCH: @lifeasa..
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Life as an IT Executive
Explore the dynamic career of Mark D. Nicholls, Partner and Chief Executive at Australia’s Information Professionals Group (IPG), where he drives digital transformation with over 30 years of IT experience.
Mark is also the Deputy Chair—of the Australian Information Industry Association, the peak industry body for the digital technology sector in Australia.
💻 Find out about career opportunities within IT.
📈 Career Path: Discover how you can find your place within IT.
🌟 Expert Advice: Discover Mark’s strategies for navigating IT challenges and seizing opportunities.
From hearing about the rewards and challenges of this work to future-proofing careers in the digital age, this conversation offers practical guidance and inspiration for anyone exploring a career in IT or technology leadership.
Tune in for all of this and more!
To learn more about Mark and his work, be sure to check out the following:
Information Professionals Group
X
Linkedin
Facebook
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Don't Miss Video Highlights of this Episode on YouTube!
SEARCH: @lifeasa..
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Life as a Professional Podcaster
Join Gary Arndt, the professional podcaster behind the hit pod, Everything Everywhere Daily, as he shares his journey from award-winning travel photographer to top-tier podcaster.
His show, focusing on history, science, and fascinating facts, attracts over 1.6 million downloads monthly.
Get ready for insights covering:
🎙️ Day in the Life: Discover what it’s like to produce a daily podcast.
🌍 Podcasting Career: Learn about what Gary feels has gone into his podcast becoming so successful.
💡 Pro Tips: Get valuable advice on building a successful podcast and growing your own audience.
Explore the world of professional podcasting and the opportunities it offers as a full-time career.
Tune in for all of this and more!
To learn more about Gary and his work, be sure to check out the following:
Everything Everywhere Daily - Website
Instagram
Linkedin
Facebook
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SEARCH: @lifeasa..
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Life as a Social Media Manager
Explore the dynamic career of Gary Frayter, Celebrity Brand & Social Media Director at Kronus Communications, who has worked with iconic names like Mike Tyson, Brendan Schaub, and Gary Owen.
Gary shares how he transforms social media accounts into impactful platforms, blending bold strategies with authentic storytelling to build powerful online brands.
Get ready for insights covering:
🔍 Managing Mike Tyson Account: Discover what it was like to handle one of the most popular talent accounts on the planet.
📈 Content Strategy: Learn how Gary crafts winning strategies for influencers, celebrities, and brands.
🚀 Career Tips: Gain advice on breaking into social media management and navigating this ever-changing industry.
Tune in for all of this and more!
To learn more about Gary and his work, be sure to check out the following:
Kronus Communications - https://kronuscommunications.com/
Portfolio Website - https://www.garyfrayter.com/
Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-frayter-534042100/
Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/garyfrayter/
Youtube – https://www.youtube.com/@garyfrayter
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SEARCH: @lifeasa..
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Life as a Cybersecurity Consultant
Join cybersecurity expert and top consultant May Brooks-Kempler as she shares her career journey from a young hacker in the 90s to becoming a sought-after expert and consultant within the field of cybersecurity.
With a wealth of experience and certifications, she dropped by LIFE AS A.. to share much of what she has learned along the way.
Get ready for insights covering:
🔐 Inside Cybersecurity: Misconceptions about cybersecurity. careers.
🌍 Finding Your Speciality: Discovering a role that fits you.
🚀 Evolving Technology: Learn how AI is shaping the future of cybersecurity.
Tune in for all of this and more!
To learn more about May and her work, be sure to check out the following:
Website - https://maybrooks.net/
Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/may-brooks-kempler/
Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/cybermaynia/
Youtube – https://www.youtube.com/@CyberMAYnia
Book - https://www.amazon.com/Scams-Hacking-Cybersecurity-Ultimate-Privacy/dp/1965480055/
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Don't miss Video Highlights of this Episode on YouTube!
SEARCH: @lifeasa..
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Life as a Research Psychologist
Get an inside look into the career of Dr. Amanda Gummer, a globally renowned research psychologist with over 20 years of experience in children's play and development.
As the CEO of Fundamentally Children and Dr. Gummer’s Good Play Guide, she blends academic expertise with entrepreneurship to shape the future of play.
Get ready for insights covering:
👩🔬 Exploring Psychology: Dive into the diverse career paths within research psychology.
🌍 From Academia to Entrepreneurship: Discover why Amanda left academia to launch her own organizations.
🧠 Impactful Insights: Learn how she became the UK's go to expert on play, parenting and child development.
Tune in for all of this and more!
To learn more about Dr. Gummer and her work, be sure to check out the following:
Fundamentally Children Website
Good Play Guide Website
LinkedIn - Dr. Amanda Gummer
Instagram - Good Play Guide
Facebook - Good Play Guide
TikTok - Good Play Guide
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Step into the world of archaeology with Dr. Andrew Kinkella, professor and veteran archaeologist, as he shares insights from over 17 field seasons in Belize studying the ancient Maya.
Discover what it's truly like trekking through jungles in search of artifacts. Hear about what he does outside the field while leading the Moorpark College Archaeological Program.
Get ready for insights covering:
📖 Engaging Stories that will both inspire and have you squirming!
🌎 A Day in the Life: Explore the unique blend of fieldwork and academic responsibilities.
📚 Challenges & Rewards: Learn about the thrills and hurdles of archaeological discovery.
🔍 Career Advice: Get inspired by Dr. Kinkella’s journey and tips for aspiring archaeologists.
Tune in for all of this and more!
To learn more about Dr. Kinkella and his work, be sure to check out the following:
YouTube: Kinkella Teaches Archaeology
Spotify: The Archaeology Podcast Network - Pseudo Archaeology
LinkedIn - Andrew Kinkella
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