cMonkX Podcast

About cMonkX Podcast

This is me. I record my monologue-style show from Berlin in English. I capture a variety of topics that are important to me. cmonkx.substack.com (https://cmonkx.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast)

Publisher

cMonkX

Category

society & culture · technology

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

30 Jun 2017

Latest episode

8 Oct 2025

Latest episodes

19 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   8 Oct 2025

   Let's do it again!

   The wait is over. After a long break, it’s a joy to be back behind the microphone. In this brief episode, I’m firing up the gear for a quick test run and saying hello to the community. Thank you for sticking around—the best is yet to come.Keywords/Tags: podcast return, new season, update, announcement, podcast hiatus, we are back, testing, 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 (https://cmonkx.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)

2. 

   7 Jul 2025

   Podcast is back...

   My podast lived two months on Spotify and I really didn’t like it. 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 (https://cmonkx.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)

3. 

   21 May 2025

   Decluttering My Tech Life, Chasing 3D Dreams & Why I'm Selling Everything

   From UX Burnout to 3D Passion: My eBay Hustle, New Mics, and the Quest for Simpler Tech... Alright, so you know how life just gets… complicated? Especially when you're a bit of a geek and love your tech. Well, I've been on this kick lately, trying to strip things back, find some simplicity, especially with this podcasting thing. Used to overcomplicate it, but now? Recording straight to my phone with this new Shure mic – it's just, well, gold. But this quest for simplicity has kinda snowballed. I'm talking a full-on tech purge. I've been listing SO much old gear on eBay – old computers I’ve clung onto for years, cameras, microphones… you name it. And you won't believe what I discovered about my ancient Canon G7X Mark II! It's like, suddenly a hot commodity. Why all this? Well, partly to clear my head and my space, but also to fund what might be my next big creative leap: diving deep into 3D design and Unreal Engine. Feeling a bit, I don't know, like the UX world is shifting with AI and all that, and maybe it's time to really lean into something new. So, in this episode, I'm just rambling, thinking out loud about all this stuff – my changing relationship with tech, why holding onto skills still matters (hello, calligraphy!), the surprising ease of selling on eBay, and what this all means for the future. Plus, a little cautionary tale about a very angry electric skateboard battery. You know, the usual. If you're a fellow tech enthusiast, creative, or just someone trying to figure out their next move in this crazy world, maybe you'll find some common ground in my musings. Chapter Marks: (0:00) Intro & The Joy of Simple Podcasting (0:57) Why My Phone is My Best Friend (and My Past Tech Struggles) (1:29) Tech Making Us Dumber? AR Glasses & The Future of Skills (3:30) The Great eBay Tech Purge: Decluttering for a New PC (5:33) Why I'm Selling (Almost) Everything (9:13) My Surprising Canon G7X Goldmine & Old Tech Value (11:11) From UX to 3D Design: AI, Career Shifts & New Passions (14:05) Funding My 3D Dream: The eBay Hustle Continues (16:12) The (Almost) Explosive Skateboard Battery Incident (17:16) Navigating eBay & Shipping Surprises (19:52) What This Means for the Podcast & Connecting with Fellow Geeks (20:50) Final Thoughts & Looking Ahead

4. 

   3 May 2025

   Decluttering My Digital Brain: What My Subreddits Reveal About Me?

   Hey everybody, welcome back to the show. So, today's episode is something a bit different, a bit more laid-back, recorded right here from my home studio – finally got that new microphone set up, sounding better, right? I had this idea... you know how our digital lives accumulate clutter? Well, I decided to tackle my Reddit account. I've been on Reddit for years, subscribed to so many subreddits, and honestly, I don't even know what half of them are anymore or why I joined them. So, in this episode, I'm doing it live: scrolling through my massive list of Reddit communities, deciding what stays and what goes. But it's more than just unsubscribing; it's a real-time reflection. Each subreddit is like a little snapshot of a past interest, a previous version of myself. We're talking everything from 3D modeling and specific artists like Basquiat, to comedy legends like Alan Partridge, travel spots like Bali, deep dives with Anthony Bourdain, tech stuff like Binance, even some weird corners like 'Accidental Renaissance' photos and 'Birth of a Fetish' (yeah, really). It's a journey through old hobbies, past curiosities, and a look at how interests evolve. Think of it as a digital decluttering session mixed with a personal archaeology dig. Maybe it'll inspire you to look at your own online subscriptions, or maybe you'll just enjoy listening to me ramble and rediscover parts of my digital history. It's long-form, it's unscripted, it's just me and my Reddit feed. Let me know if you find any gems in here you recognize! Chapter Marks: (00:00) Intro: Back Home & Better Sound (New Mic!) (00:33) Today's Plan: Pruning My Reddit Subscriptions (01:09) The Importance of Audio & Why I Upgraded (03:00) Diving In: The Reddit Pruning Begins (09:03) Subreddit: 3D Modeling (Keeping) (10:44) Subreddit: 80 Level (Keeping) (11:14) Subreddit: Accidental Renaissance (Keeping, with story) (13:16) Subreddit: Alan Partridge (Keeping) (14:30) Subreddit: All That Is Interesting (Unsubscribing) (15:20) Subreddit: AMA (Ask Me Anything) (Unsubscribing) (16:15) Subreddit: Angry Upvote (Keeping) (17:00) Subreddit: Answers (Unsubscribing) (17:31) Subreddit: Anthony Bourdain (Keeping) (19:02) Subreddit: Apollo App (Unsubscribing) (19:09) Subreddit: Aquariums (Keeping) (20:35) Subreddit: Art (Unsubscribing) (21:06) Subreddit: Ask Reddit (Keeping) (22:18) Subreddit: Ask Reddit After Dark (Keeping) (22:29) Subreddit: Asshole Design (Unsubscribing) (23:39) Subreddit: Bali (Keeping) (24:25) Subreddit: Basquiat Art (Unsubscribing) (25:20) Subreddit: Battle Stations (Unsubscribing) (26:21) Subreddit: Be Amazed (Unsubscribing) (26:58) Subreddit: Beat Me To It (Keeping) (27:53) Subreddit: Berlin (Keeping) (28:22) Subreddit: Berlinner Memes / Berlin Picks / Berlin Social Club (Decisions) (29:10) Subreddit: Best Of (Unsubscribing) (29:38) Subreddit: Better Every Loop (Keeping) (30:14) Subreddit: Binance (Unsubscribing) (30:24) Subreddit: Birth of a Fetish (Unsubscribing) (30:57) Wrapping Up Part 1 & Final Thoughts on the Process

5. 

   14 Apr 2025

   Behind Squeaky Doors, Chasing Thoughts

   Hey you... Just closing the (very squeaky) door behind me tonight. This one's mostly about trying to clear my head, dealing with some of those thoughts that seem to chase you, especially late at night. You'll hear the dishwasher in the background, maybe some tea being made (Sweet Kiss, if you're wondering – needed some comfort). It's a bit raw, maybe some oversharing, but I figured I'd just hit record instead of letting the anxiety win. We touch on trying to disconnect from phones, the weirdness of selling old tech on eBay, figuring out where this podcast even lives now (heads up, moved off Substack!), and just... coping mechanisms, I guess. Journaling, doodling, this recording – finding ways through. Maybe you feel like this sometimes too. If you're out there listening in the real world and need to connect, well, here I am for this half hour or so. Hope it resonates, or at least provides some company. How this reflects your style: Conversational Opening: Starts informally like you do. Connects Setting & Mood: Mentions the squeaky door and links it to the mental state immediately. Acknowledges Imperfection/Vulnerability: Uses phrases like "trying to clear my head," "thoughts that seem to chase you," "a bit raw, maybe some oversharing," "needed some comfort." Includes Specific Details: Mentions the dishwasher, tea type, eBay, Substack move – grounding the reflections. Focuses on Core Themes: Anxiety, coping, technology struggles, connection. Direct Address & Invitation: Speaks to the listener directly ("Maybe you feel like this sometimes too," "well, here I am"). Slightly Unfinished Feel: The ending "Hope it resonates, or at least provides some company" mirrors the open-ended nature of your monologue.

6. 

   5 Apr 2025

   Career Pivot, Design Legacy & Finding Meaning Through Podcasting | Personal Journal

   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 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 (https://cmonkx.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)

7. 

   26 Mar 2025

   The Future of Coding vs. Organic Creativity: From Unreal Engine to Vibe Coding and a Pivot to Video

   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. 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 (https://cmonkx.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)

8. 

   23 Mar 2025

   My Podcast Addiction Confession

   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. 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 (https://cmonkx.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)

9. 

   15 Mar 2025

   My Brain's on High Heat

   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. 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 (https://cmonkx.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)

10. 

    27 Feb 2025

    A Berlin Walk: Spring, Scattered Thoughts, and the Search for Home (Or Something Like It)

    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. 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 (https://cmonkx.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)

11. 

    30 Jan 2025

    Audio Podcast win over Video Podcast

    sharing some news about podcast numbers. Apparently audio podcasts have a lot stronger engagement compared to video ones. 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 (https://cmonkx.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)

12. 

    30 Jan 2025

    meandering in the morning

    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 (https://cmonkx.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)

13. 

    8 Jan 2025

    Connecting Beyond the Categories

    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! 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 (https://cmonkx.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)

14. 

    1 Dec 2024

    Testing DJI Mic Mini for podcasting

    I test out my new DJI mic setup while cooking lunch and share thoughts on diving into content creation. Join me as I talk about my goals for podcasting and video production, the importance of sound quality, and creating a workflow that’s simple and friction-free. I also reflect on life as a single dad, my daughter’s week with me, and preparing for a visit from my mum. It’s a laid-back introduction to what I hope will be a creative journey worth sharing. 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 (https://cmonkx.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)

15. 

    23 Nov 2024

    From Perfectionism to Publishing: A Creator's Journey with Camera Gear Review

    A raw and honest exploration of creative paralysis and the journey to overcome perfectionism. This episode documents personal revelations about content creation, featuring practical camera tests and authentic insights about filming in Berlin. Key Moments: Commitment to publishing all recorded content to break the cycle of overthinking Detailed comparison of different cameras: Canon Legria, Canon G7X Mark II, Pixel 8 Pro, and reflections on the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 Authentic street footage from Berlin's eclectic neighborhoods Insights about public filming and overcoming self-consciousness Coverage of a live podcast event discussing contemporary German society Personal reflections on equipment choice vs. creative output Equipment Featured: Canon Legria with external microphone Canon G7X Mark II Google Pixel 8 Pro DJI Osmo Pocket 3 (discussed) 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 (https://cmonkx.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)

16. 

    21 Nov 2024

    Marathon episode

    Long overdue marathon episode. Here I give a short context about my lack of preparation and what came out of this heroic effort. Enjoy. More to come soon 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 (https://cmonkx.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)

17. 

    5 Jul 2023

    Let’s talk about running

    In this episode I’m talking about my newly discovered passion for running. I got motivated by randomly learning about upcoming marathon. It’s an event in Berlin that I’ve been ignoring for a couple of years now but always imagining how would it be to take part in. Having few months ahead of the event I decided to train for it instead of just looking at other people go. To my big disappointment hours, too late to register for Berlin Marathon 2023 as apparently there is a lot more running in enthusiasts than I thought. So I’m not going to take part this year, but I keep on training. In this episode, I’m sharing my findings discoveries and fun experiences during my irregular running sessions. I’m not an expert but I’m happy to discover share and hopefully exchange learnings. 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 (https://cmonkx.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)

18. 

    14 Jun 2023

    Stray

    I talk about my relationship with summer and the game called Stray 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 (https://cmonkx.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)

19. 

    30 Jun 2017

    On My Way

    I like when it rains • collective brain • Love your comments on walking • one reason for not walking much | Make your own podcast: https://anchor.fm/conscious-monkeys (https://anchor.fm/conscious-monkeys) 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 (https://cmonkx.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

YouTube views

138,390

Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025

Podcast Authority Score: 51 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

65

Social presence

0

YouTube

93

Engagement

0

Contact cMonkX Podcast

Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.