Introduction: In this special bonus episode of Gen Authentic, host Stef Simich shares her excitement about attending Taylor Swift's concert and reflects on the power of embracing what makes us happy, regardless of others' opinions. She discusses Taylor Swift's journey and how the singer's resilience and self-confidence have inspired her own growth. Stef encourages listeners to find solace in knowing that their passions and preferences are valid, and that finding a balance in life is essential to living authentically.

Episode Notes:

1. Stef shares her anticipation for attending Taylor Swift's concert and discusses the quote about not making others feel bad for what they enjoy.
2. Reflecting on the incident at the 2009 VMA Awards, Stef recalls how people made her feel dumb for being a fan of Taylor Swift.
3. She emphasizes that enjoying pop music does not diminish its value or depth, and encourages listeners not to let others' judgments affect their enjoyment.
4. Stef highlights Taylor Swift's growth and resilience over the years, including her ability to overcome obstacles and stand up for herself.
5. She mentions the empowering lyrics from Taylor's songs and how they have personally resonated with her, serving as mantras for self-confidence and resilience.
6. Stef discusses her mid-year check-in and shares her progress in learning to love herself at 23.
7. She describes the balance she has achieved in her life, including work, hobbies, self-love, and relationships.
8. Stef emphasizes the importance of finding one's own balance and not seeking validation from others.
9. She encourages listeners to embrace their authentic selves and be proud of their interests and passions.

Key Takeaways:

• Don't let others' opinions diminish the value of what you enjoy.
• Taylor Swift's journey showcases resilience and self-confidence.
• Empowering lyrics from Taylor's songs can serve as mantras for self-confidence and resilience.
• Finding a balance in life is essential for living authentically.
• Embrace your authentic self and be proud of your interests and passions.

Conclusion: Stef concludes the bonus episode by expressing gratitude to Taylor Swift for being a voice of a generation and for inspiring listeners to work more authentically through life. She encourages listeners to embrace their confidence, whether it's quiet or bold, and to know that their preferences and interests are valid. Stef's message emphasizes the importance of finding personal balance and living life on one's own terms, without seeking validation from others. By sharing her own journey and reflections, she invites listeners to love themselves and be proud of who they are.

• Stef introduces today's guest, Robi, whom they were introduced to by a previous guest on the show. Stef shares how Robi has been a supportive partner in their podcast journey and highlights Robi's passion for ensuring voices are heard.
• Robi, a transgender queer artist living in Berlin, introduces themselves as a sound and media artist with a wide range of interests and expertise, including podcast sound, experiential sound, experimental composition, digital arts, film and games sound design, sound installations, and more. They emphasize the importance of storytelling, poetry, and the affective power of using one's voice in their work.
• Stef praises Robi's voice, mentioning how it conveys a storytelling quality and suggests they could excel at reading audiobooks.
• Robi shares their background, stating they are originally from Florida and moved to Berlin around four and a half years ago. They came to Berlin to be closer to someone and pursue a master's degree in sound studies and sonic arts at the University of Arts Berlin. Robi now teaches as an Extended Reality Workshop Leader at the Weizensee University of the Arts in Berlin.
• Stef expresses interest in Robi's work at the art university and remarks on the difference between larger and smaller educational institutions. Robi explains the benefits of working in a smaller setting, where there is more individual attention and a closer connection with the students.
• Robi discusses the affordability of universities in Germany compared to the United States and their decision to pursue studies in Germany to avoid accumulating excessive debt. They comment on the social differences and acceptance they've experienced in Berlin, highlighting the LGBTQIA-friendly environment.
• Stef and Robi talk about language barriers, with Robi sharing that they have a passive fluency in German, meaning they understand it well and can read proficiently but struggle with speaking. They mention the prevalence of English speakers in Berlin and the challenges of adapting to a different language and culture.
• Stef and Robi discuss the differences between German and English and share some humorous anecdotes about unintentional language mishaps.
• Robi reflects on their musical background as a singer and musician in Florida, playing in bands, touring, and working as a session singer. They explain how their interest in recording and the technical aspects of music production grew over time, driven by a desire to have more control over their own voice and creative ideas. Robi felt unheard and disregarded in traditional recording studio settings, particularly due to the dominance of male engineers and producers. This led them to pursue their own technical skills and reclaim control over their voice.