Six Degrees of Cats, Finding Community, and Following Your Curiosity (w/ Amanda B.)

In this episode, we sit down with Amanda B., creator of the podcast *Six Degrees of Cats*, to explore her fascinating journey from West Michigan to Japan to New York City. Amanda shares how curiosity and a love of music have shaped her unconventional career path, and offers invaluable tips for anyone moving to a new city, building community, and finding meaningful connections. What You'll Learn: How Amanda used music as a universal language to connect with people in Japan Why the guitar is the perfect portable social instrument Tips for discovering great live music venues in New York City (and beyond) The importance of "friend-in-laws" and loose ties in building community How to navigate moving to a new city and making it feel like home Why mixing and melding your social circles can lead to unexpected opportunities Resources Mentioned: JET Program - Teaching English in Japan Oh My Rockness - NYC concert discovery Willie Mae Rock Camp Amanda B. (she/her) is the writer, host and producer of 6 Degrees of Cats, the world's #1 cat-themed culture, history and science podcast. She leverages her background in research, mental health advocacy, professional development and trauma-informed violence prevention to thoughtfully connect topics as disparate as sainthood, Vikings and Valentine's Day to the world's most populous domesticated pet (...or are they?). Amanda has consulted in education programming and audio production for clients such as The Edmund W. Gordon Institute for Advanced Study at Columbia University and The Podcast Academy and volunteers for LGBTQ+-affirming youth mental health non-profit OkaySo. Amanda is also a musician - she leads NYC-based rock 'n' roll band, Leathered and has supported major recording artists as a guitarist on international stages. The team does not appreciate her impromptu serenades. Music is by Marcus Thorne Bagala. Find us everywhere at https://dailytipspodcast.com. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy