In this powerful podcast episode, Milana Naumenko shares her journey from growing up in Ukraine to becoming a first-generation immigrant in the United States. She offers a deeply personal perspective on the Ukraine war, reflecting on the emotional toll it has taken on her friends, classmates, and loved ones—many of whom have been drafted, displaced, or forced to flee.

Milana opens up about the ongoing impact of the conflict, the weight of watching events unfold from afar, and her continued hope for peace. Beyond the war, she dives into her love of music, the New York City music scene, and her adventures helping run an independent music blog.

This episode weaves together stories of immigration, identity, resilience, culture, and creativity, exploring what it means to belong, persevere, and build a life in a constantly changing world.

Topics include: Ukraine war, immigrant experience, first-generation stories, NYC music scene, cultural identity, resilience, and hope.

Music we mention:

Death Grips

London Grammar

Groove Armada

Zechs Marquise

The Mars Volta

The Kills

Fontaines DC

The Smile

Nick Cave

Beth Gibbons

Interpol