
Sign up to save your podcasts
Or


We’re diving deep into the wild and wacky world of time and technology in this episode. As we wrap up 2025, we ponder the mysteries of how swiftly time seems to fly by, especially when you’re juggling parenthood and a busy life. I've been mulling over the chaotic nature of our reality, particularly with all the buzz around AI and its potential to disrupt everything we know. Spoiler alert: I’m not convinced it’s the all-powerful overlord some make it out to be—maybe it’s just a shiny toy that we’re all getting a bit too giddy about. Plus, I share my personal journey with my new glasses—yes, the life-changing kind that actually help you see the world more clearly, both literally and metaphorically. So, grab a comfy seat, maybe a snack, and let’s unpack this curious blend of tech musings and life reflections together.
As we stand on the cusp of 2026, the air is thick with anticipation and a touch of uncertainty. Speaker A kicks off this episode with musings about the rapid changes ushered in by technology, particularly AI. It’s a wild ride, folks! From playful experiments with coding personal applications to the nagging question of whether we’re ready to let AI steer the ship of our lives, there’s a lot to unpack here. Speaker A navigates these thoughts with a relaxed vibe, blending humor and insight. It’s like having a chat over coffee with a friend who’s deep in thought about the future, and trust me, you’re going to want to hear what they have to say.
But it’s not all tech talk; our speaker takes a detour into the personal realm, reflecting on the nature of time and how it feels like it’s slipping away. Between work, parenting, and life’s endless to-do lists, time can seem like a mischievous trickster. Speaker A shares their experiences with co-parenting and the emotional rollercoaster that comes with it, revealing a relatable struggle that many of us can identify with. We’ve all had weeks that zoom by and others that drag on, and our speaker’s reflections offer a comforting reminder that we’re not alone in feeling this way.
As we round out the episode, the conversation shifts to the simple yet profound act of getting new glasses. It’s not just about seeing better; it’s about how that choice can reflect deeper aspects of our identity. Speaker A discusses the quirky experience of selecting frames and how they resonate with our sense of self. It’s a humorous yet thoughtful exploration of how our choices shape us, paired with the acknowledgement that life’s little decisions can have a big impact on how we perceive ourselves and the world around us. So grab a comfy chair, kick back, and let’s dive into this reflection on technology, time, and the choices that define us. You won’t want to miss it!
Takeaways:
contact me at: [email protected]
So, let's dive into the nitty-gritty of this episode where I’m just trying to get back into the groove of podcasting after a little break. You know how life can throw some curveballs at you? Well, I hit a bit of a snag with my mental energy, which had me feeling more like a sloth than a podcasting pro. I really didn’t want to drag everyone into my personal stuff, because, honestly, oversharing can feel like a slippery slope, right? I mean, we’re all about keeping it real, but there are boundaries, folks! Anyway, I’m here now, hoping to shake off those zombie podcast vibes and keep the momentum going. So stick around as we chat about tech, materialism, and maybe dive into this whole technology detox thing—because who doesn’t feel a little overwhelmed by their devices sometimes? Let’s roll!
The podcast dives into the struggles of getting back into a podcasting groove after a long hiatus. Our host opens up about the unexpected break that started in May, which was initially just a pause but turned into a deeper reflection on mental health and the challenges of sharing personal experiences in a public forum. They discuss the fine line between being authentic and oversharing, revealing how the pressures of a personal podcast can sometimes feel overwhelming. It’s like walking a tightrope where one misstep could lead to a tumble into the abyss of too much information. The host shares their journey of trying to strike a balance between vulnerability and maintaining boundaries, emphasizing that while it’s great to connect, there are limits to how much personal detail should be shared with an audience that feels like a friend but is, in reality, a crowd of listeners.
As the conversation unfolds, we get a glimpse into the technical woes of podcasting—switching hosting platforms and dealing with the mess of 'zombie' episodes that pop up when you least expect them. It’s a relatable struggle for anyone who’s ever tried to navigate the digital landscape, especially when you’re not exactly a tech guru. The host reflects on their decision to upgrade their hosting service, opting for a more professional platform, and mentions the various social media platforms they’ve chosen to avoid. It’s a candid look at both the excitement and the frustrations of maintaining a podcast, reminding listeners that behind every episode is a person juggling the chaos of technology and creativity.
The episode wraps up with a hopeful tone as the host expresses their desire to return to regular podcasting, hinting at future topics like technology detox and reflections on AI. There’s a sense of renewal and eagerness to engage with the audience again. They invite listeners to join them on this journey, promising to keep it real and relatable—just like a good chat with an old friend on a crisp autumn day.
Takeaways:
Links referenced in this episode:
Companies mentioned in this episode:
contact me at: [email protected]
Kind of processing things out loud today... thinking about this design career, what actually leaves a mark, and feeling this pull towards making podcasts more seriously. It's a bit of a ramble, includes a walk outside (mic and all), and ends with a hint about a really personal new project I'm starting.
Show Notes:
* Just me thinking out loud from home today, feeling a bit adventurous.
* Talking about why I like podcasts that feel like a raw audio message, not too polished. Trying to capture that here.
* Reflecting on the long winter and how this sunny day feels different.
* Getting into my career as a designer and this nagging feeling about legacy – what actually lasts when projects disappear or companies fold?
* Had a realization that maybe the work I thought I was made for isn't quite it.
* Why podcasting? It's always been there, even the messy attempts. Feeling more ready now, less hung up on having the perfect "radio voice."
* Thinking about how standards have changed in content creation.
* Critiquing platforms like Substack – they kinda suck, right? But you still need them.
* Decided to take the mic outside for a walk – apologies if the audio gets a bit rough, but it felt right to move. (Around 20:07)
* Talking about a really personal new podcast project I'm starting called "You Gonna Be Okay," stemming from my journey into single fatherhood after separation.
* Why now feels like the right time to share that story.
* This whole episode is kind of a marker for me – acknowledging a shift.
* More on the new project coming soon.
* Chapter Marks (Timestamps approximate based on original recording structure):
* 00:00 - Feeling Adventurous at Home
* 02:02 - Why Raw Style, Free-Form Podcasting Feels Right
* 03:33 - Clear Skies, Clear Thoughts?
* 05:50 - The Realization About Design & Legacy
* 08:15 - Overcoming the "Radio Voice" Doubt
* 09:55 - Committing to This Podcasting Thing
* 11:15 - Platform Problems (Substack etc.)
* 20:07 - Stepping Outside (Audio Shift)
* 21:03 - A New, Personal Project: Single Fatherhood
* 23:55 - Why Share This Now? / Final Thoughts
contact me at: [email protected]
In this episode, I share my thoughts on the frustrating state of Berlin's public transport and how it initially fueled my virtual city project, Lelit District, built with Unreal Engine. I delve into the intriguing concept of vibe coding, where AI assists in code creation, hinting at the future of coding. However, the current limitations of vibe coding and the rapid advancements in AI are leading me to question the long-term relevance of traditional coding and even the direction of Lelit District.
I discuss the possibility of a future where AI handles the complexities of code, allowing creators to focus on higher-level concepts. This realization prompts a personal reflection on my creative journey and a consideration of shifting my primary focus to video. I revisit old travel footage, recognizing video as a more organic and direct form of expression and communication.
Join me as I explore:
* The challenges of coding Lelit District in Unreal Engine and the allure of AI-assisted vibe coding.
* My evolving perspective on the future of coding and the potential displacement of traditional software development.
* The rapid progress of AI in various creative fields, including code generation.
* My growing appreciation for video as a more natural and rewarding medium for storytelling and communication.
* The decision to potentially step back from intensive software development to embrace the authenticity of video creation.
* The idea that in the future, genuine experiences and the ability to share them organically will hold significant value.
This episode examines the tension between the evolving landscape of AI in coding and the enduring power of human-driven, organic forms of creativity, ultimately leading to a decision to prioritize video as a primary means of expression.
contact me at: [email protected]
This episode kicks off with a morning walk surprise – a usually quiet street packed with cars! The reason? A public transport strike. This leads to thoughts on people's reactions (or lack thereof) to such disruptions and a little detour into the ongoing debate about remote work.
But the main thread of this episode is a personal reflection on podcast consumption. Inspired by a video from Van Neistat (yes, Casey's brother!), I delve into my own potential "addiction" to podcasts and why I'm starting to believe that less might actually be more. I explore the feeling of being constantly bombarded with information and the importance of creating space for your own thoughts and the present moment.
Tune in to hear my slightly rambling thoughts on all this and maybe even share your own perspective!
Chapter Marks:
* 00:00:00 - The Chaotic Quiet: Initial thoughts on the microphone and the unexpected traffic due to the public transport strike.
* 00:00:45 - Strike Surprises: Observing the unusually busy streets and the reason behind it.
* 00:01:11 - The Lack of Reaction: Pondering the general public's response to frequent strikes.
* 00:02:10 - A Longer Walk and Recording: The motivation behind this morning's recording session.
* 00:03:10 - More Packed Streets: Further observations on the traffic situation and initial thoughts on remote work.
* 00:03:57 - Remote Work Reflections: Delving deeper into the ongoing discussion about working from home vs. the office.
* 00:04:58 - My Own Office Dilemma: Personal feelings about the pros and cons of office work.
* 00:05:56 - The Podcast Addiction Question: Transitioning to the main topic inspired by Van Neistat.
* 00:06:35 - Van Neistat's Podcast Praise: Mentioning the video that sparked this reflection.
* 00:07:19 - Lunchtime Reflection (Delayed): Setting the intention to reflect later in the day.
* 00:07:36 - Eight Hours Later: Catching up after a busy day to share the thoughts.
* 00:08:08 - Respect for Van Neistat: Clarifying the initial casual reference and acknowledging his work.
* 00:09:00 - The Podcast Addiction Disagreement: Expressing the core disagreement with Van Neistat's "positive addiction" stance.
* 00:09:41 - My Own Podcast Overload: Sharing personal experience with listening to too many podcasts.
* 00:10:14 - The Programming Effect: Thoughts on how constant listening can influence one's own thinking.
* 00:10:46 - The Illusion of Inspiration: Questioning the endless stream of podcast content.
* 00:11:11 - Podcast Guest Suspicions: A slightly cynical view on the motivations of some podcast guests.
* 00:12:17 - Cutting Back on Podcasts: Sharing the positive effects of reducing podcast consumption.
* 00:12:59 - The Beauty of Boredom and Presence: Emphasizing the value of being present in everyday activities.
* 00:13:31 - The Flow State: Reflecting on the rewarding feeling of focused activity.
* 00:14:01 - Half Here, Half There: Contrasting focused activity with multitasking and podcast listening.
* 00:14:21 - Your Thoughts Welcome: Encouraging listeners to share their opinions.
contact me at: [email protected]
Grabbed my old Zoom H1 recorder (the one that lets me hear myself talk – crucial!) and went for a walk to escape the apartment and the endless to-do list. Turns out, I had a lot on my mind. This is a pretty unfiltered ramble about feeling overwhelmed by choices, the good and bad of the internet (especially the news… ugh), the weirdness of modern parenting, and why I’m nostalgic for the early days of online life. Also, a brief rant about gimbals I haven't used and why I keep listening to old podcasts. It's chaotic, but it's real.
Okay, here are timestamps for key topics and transitions in the transcript, along with a list of references (both explicit and implicit).
Timestamps:
* 0:00:00 - 0:00:28: Introduction and explanation of using the Zoom H1 recorder.
* 0:00:28 - 0:00:55: Reason for the walk: escaping the overwhelming feeling of unfinished tasks and distractions at home.
* 0:00:55 - 0:01:17: Description about new recording approach.
* 0:01:17 - 0:01:50: Benefits of recording while listetning.
* 0:01:50 - 0:02:28: Description of a walk.
* 0:02:28 - 0:03:55: Feeling overwhelmed by choices and the "temptations" of home.
* 0:03:55 - 0:04:55: Mentioning the podcast and its new location (sapsdag.com).
* 0:04:55 - 0:05:13: Overthinking the podcast name.
* 0:05:13 - 0:06:07: The comfort of having a creative outlet, questioning the purpose of his other projects.
* 0:06:07 - 0:07:07: The Unreal Engine project dilemma (game or productivity software?).
* 0:07:07 - 0:07:52: The satisfaction of publishing vs. the feeling of "semi-productivity tasks."
* 0:07:52 - 0:08:53: Talking about "doing" versus talking about "doing" (referencing the prevalence of online tutorials and courses).
* 0:08:53 - 0:09:09: The overwhelming nature of tools, options.
* 0:09:09 - 0:10:19: The unused gimbal and the feeling of guilt.
* 0:10:19 - 0:12:45: Explaining the recent absence due to co-parenting and his daughter's illness.
* 0:12:45 - 0:13:52: Thoughts on parents sharing children's lives online (strong disapproval).
* 0:13:52 - 0:14:17: Tangent about a vandalized Tesla and Elon Musk.
* 0:14:17 - 0:14:50: The polarizing nature of news around the Tesla.
* 0:14:50 - 0:17:55: The addictive and negative nature of online news (Elon Musk, Donald Trump, Ukraine conflict).
* 0:17:55 - 0:18:40: The desire to disconnect from the news and toxicity.
* 0:18:40 - 0:19:29: Questioning how to disconnect while using the internet and smartphones.
* 0:19:29 - 0:19:58: Youtube example.
* 0:19:58 - 0:20:40: Experimenting with a "dumb phone" (unsuccessful).
* 0:20:40 - 0:21:46: The story about the girl on the train sketching in a notebook (analog vs. digital).
* 0:21:46 - 0:23:43: Discussion of "artisanal" activities, making yourself purposely bored, being a content creator.
* 0:23:43 - 0:24:24: Returning to the issue of consuming vs. creating, constant podcast listening.
* 0:24:24 - 0:25:37: Describing his podcast listening habits (multiple headphones, listening while falling asleep).
* 0:25:37 - 0:26:23: Recognizing the negative impact of constant listening (anxiety, suppressing own thoughts).
* 0:26:23 - 0:27:34: Recording as antidote.
* 0:27:34 - 0:28:40: Critiquing the formulaic nature of modern podcasts and the search for "honest media."
* 0:28:40 - 0:29:36: Reflection on the change of the podcasting.
* 0:29:36 - 0:30:25: Listening to old podcasts and the appeal of the "old internet."
* 0:30:25 - 0:30:55: Longing for sharing without commercial interest.
* 0:30:55 - 0:32:48: Mentioning Emma Chamberlain's podcast ("Anything Goes") as an example of introspective content, but not fully resonating.
* 0:32:48 - 0:34:40: Reflecting on the shift in online purchasing from the early days to now.
* 0:34:40 - 0:36:23: Discussion of the decline of physical stores and the dominance of online shopping.
* 0:36:23 - 0:38:32: Reflecting on the changing nature of "side hustles" and online income.
* 0:38:32 - 0:39:17: Deciding to cut the walk short and take a tram home (due to being overdressed and the weather).
References (Explicit and Implicit):
* Zoom H1 Recorder: (Explicit) A specific model of portable audio recorder.
* sapsdag.com (C-Monk X): (Explicit) The speaker's website/podcast platform.
* Unreal Engine: (Explicit) A game development engine, implying the speaker's interest in game development or 3D graphics.
* "Semi-productivity tasks": (Implicit) A term used in productivity circles to describe activities that feel productive but don't contribute to meaningful goals.
* Elon Musk, Donald Trump, Ukraine conflict, Russian invasion: (Explicit) Current events and figures that represent the speaker's anxiety about the news and the state of the world.
* "Big Brother": (Explicit) A reality TV show, used as a comparison to the "reality fictional show" of current events.
* US Tarrifs: (Explicit) A reference to trade policies, shows attention to current events.
* Pixel 8 Pro: (Explicit) A specific model of Google smartphone.
* YouTube: (Explicit) The video-sharing platform, used as an example of a source of distraction and algorithm-driven content.
* "Dumb phone": (Implicit) A basic phone with limited features, contrasted with a smartphone.
* "Girl on the train" sketching: (Implicit) Refers to a previous blog post by the speaker, creating a connection between his written and spoken content.
* "Artisanal" things: (Implicit) A reference to a trend of valuing handcrafted, traditional, or non-digital activities.
* Podcasts (in general): (Explicit & Implicit) A major theme, with the speaker discussing his listening habits, the evolution of podcasting, and his search for authentic content.
* Apple AirPods: (Explicit) Mentioned as a type of headphones used.
* Emma Chamberlain's "Anything Goes" podcast: (Explicit) A specific podcast mentioned as an example of introspective content, but not a perfect fit for the speaker.
* Instagram: (Implicit) Mentioned in the context of parents sharing photos of their children.
* eBay: (Explicit) Refered as first online shop.
* "Old Internet" vs. "New Internet": (Implicit) A recurring theme, contrasting the perceived innocence and community of the early internet with the commercialized, algorithm-driven present.Greetings. Or maybe not "greetings." More like… a continuation. A brain-spill, captured on my trusty old Zoom H1 recorder. I love this thing because, unlike my "fancy" microphone, it lets me hear myself as I talk. Sounds weird, I know, but for this kind of rambling self-reflection, it's essential. It's like having a real-time sanity check.
And sanity was definitely in short supply this morning. I was trapped in my apartment, surrounded by the ghosts of unfinished projects. My website, that game I'm (supposedly) making, the ever-growing list of "shoulds"... it was all closing in. The internet, which is supposed to be this amazing tool, felt more like a digital prison, full of distractions and temptations masquerading as opportunities.
So, I did the only logical thing: I ran away. Okay, I went for a walk. A rainy, cold Saturday morning walk, to be precise. And I brought the recorder, because sometimes the best way to untangle your thoughts is to just… let them out.
The Siren Song of the Scroll (and Why It's Drowning Me)
One of the biggest things I've been wrestling with is the sheer volume of information we're bombarded with daily. I'm an information junkie, I admit it. Podcasts are practically my lifeblood (I have, like, four different pairs of headphones for different listening situations – don't judge). But lately, it feels like I'm drowning in other people's thoughts, leaving no room for my own.
And the news… oh, the news. It's this addictive, horrifying spectacle. The Elon Musk saga, the political dumpster fires, the global conflicts… I feel compelled to stay informed, but it's also incredibly draining. It's like watching a slow-motion train wreck, and you can't look away, even though you know it's making you miserable.
I keep finding myself longing for the "old internet" – the days before algorithms and monetization ruled everything. Remember when people blogged just to share their thoughts, not to build a personal brand? When online shopping felt like a risky adventure? There was a certain innocence to it, a sense of genuine connection that feels increasingly rare.
Parenting in the Age of the Perfectly Curated Feed
This all ties into my feelings about parenting, too. I'm a co-parent, which means I get these intense weeks with my daughter, followed by weeks of (relative) freedom. It's a rollercoaster, to say the least. And when I'm in "dad mode," there's just no room for anything else. My fancy new gimbal? Still in its box.
And I'm fiercely protective of my daughter's privacy. I see so many parents using their kids for online clout, and it just feels… wrong. Kids are adorable, fascinating creatures, but that fascination is primarily for their parents. Sharing every moment of their lives online, before they're even old enough to understand the implications, feels exploitative.
Finding the Signal in the Noise
So, where does this leave me? Still searching, I guess. Trying to find a balance between staying informed and staying sane. Trying to create more and consume less. Trying to be present, both for my daughter and for myself.
This recording, this messy, rambling brain dump, is part of that process. It's a way of reclaiming my own thoughts, of finding the signal in the noise. It's not polished, it's not perfect, but it's real. And in a world of curated realities, maybe that's the most valuable thing of all. I still don't really know how do you filter all that negative information. But here it is.
contact me at: [email protected]
Join me for an unusually long and (hopefully) unusually honest audio message, recorded on a sunny-ish day off in Berlin. This isn't your typical, tightly-themed podcast episode. It's more like a rambling conversation with a friend – a brain dump, a walking meditation, a slice of life captured on a 40-minute stroll to pick up my daughter from Kita.
Expect a stream-of-consciousness journey through thoughts on: the joys (and anxieties) of unscheduled time, the unpredictable moods of early spring, the persistent pull of travel and the search for "roots" (especially in your 40s), a brief and mildly embarrassing encounter with the world of "content creation" (and a camera I promptly returned), and the small, unexpected moments of human connection that make a big city feel a little less lonely.
This is an experiment in embracing the unstructured, the unfiltered, the real. It's about finding the interesting in the everyday, and maybe, just maybe, connecting with you along the way.
Topics Covered:
* Taking a day off in Berlin: The surprisingly profound impact of disconnecting.
* Early spring weather and its effect on the mind (and wardrobe choices).
* Travel envy, wanderlust, and the search for a place to call home.
* The "content creator" dilemma: Authenticity vs. the algorithm.
* A heartwarming encounter with a neighborhood acquaintance.
* Reflections on a retired couple vlogging from Mallorca.
* Finding connection in unexpected places.
* Embracing the messy, meandering nature of thought.
* The beauty (and occasional frustration) of being a human.
Highlights & Moments:
* [0:00] Intro: Setting the scene – a day off, a walk, and a microphone.
* [2:15] The joys (and anxieties) of a work-free day in Berlin.
* [5:40] Weather-induced existentialism: Spring's confusing signals.
* [8:55] Travel dreams and the feeling of being "stuck" while others explore.
* [14:20] The "content creator" cringe and my camera-buying regret.
* [22:10] A heartwarming encounter with a familiar stranger.
* [26:33] The inspiring authenticity of older vloggers (and my envy!).
* [34.05] Final thoughts and reflection
If you've ever felt lost, found, or somewhere in between, this episode might resonate. Give it a listen and let me know what you think in the comments! What are your thoughts on finding your place in the world, embracing imperfection, and the allure of the open road (or the open microphone)?
Keywords: Berlin, podcast, audio message, walking, day off, spring, travel, content creation, authenticity, connection, introspection, vlog, roots, home, personal essay, stream of consciousness, mindfulness, slice of life.
contact me at: [email protected]
sharing some news about podcast numbers. Apparently audio podcasts have a lot stronger engagement compared to video ones.
just a short morning monologue about upcoming spring season, migraine, freelancing, employment and so on. feel free to comment on Spotify
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit cmonkx.substack.com
Welcome to the very first episode of my podcast! Join me on this new journey as I explore the world of unfiltered conversation and multi-faceted content creation. I'm diving headfirst into this project with a desire to share my thoughts and ideas freely, unconstrained by the typical podcasting norms. This episode lays out my vision for a podcasting experience that prioritizes connection over categorization.
I believe that limiting a podcast to a single topic can feel artificial and restrict the potential for genuine connection with listeners. Just as our real-life conversations flow naturally across various subjects, I envision this podcast as a space where we can explore a myriad of topics, all linked by the common thread of our shared human experience.
Key Moments:
[00:00:00] Introduction: Setting the stage for a podcast without categories. A beginning-of-the-year launch of an unconventional project.
[00:02:30] The Challenge of Categorization: Discussing the current podcasting landscape and the pressure to fit into a specific niche.
[00:09:00] The User Experience Perspective: My perspective on connecting with people on multiple levels and resisting the urge to categorize. A belief in the power of multifaceted connections.
[00:12:50] Real-Life Connections vs. Categorized Content: Drawing parallels between organic conversations and the desired format of this podcast.
[00:19:00] An Experiment in Authenticity: My hope for this podcast to succeed and inspire others to broadcast who they are, not just what they "do."
[00:22:00] Broadening the Scope: A look at my personal motivations and the diverse topics that will be explored in this feed.
[00:25:00] Personal Worlds & 3D Software: Sharing a personal limitation – the inability to travel freely – and my passion for creating virtual worlds.
This is an experiment, a departure from the conventional. It’s a podcast that embraces complexity and celebrates the multi-faceted nature of human connection. I hope you’ll join me on this journey as we explore what it means to create content that truly resonates.
I plan to share a mix of written posts, audio recordings, and videos, all connected by my personal perspective and a desire to connect with you, the listener. I'm looking forward to exploring a range of topics, from the intricacies of 3D software and virtual world creation to the broader themes of travel, human connection, and the search for meaning in a complex world.
Let’s see where this conversation takes us!
From the publisher's feed