#16: Cool Journalism Jobs and Punk Rock Karaoke with Janet Jay

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One of the coolest parts about being a freelance writer is that you get to explore a wide variety of topics. Janet Jay has certainly had some fascinating journalism jobs over the years. Her portfolio includes investigative journalism into creating yogurt from vaginal bacteria and what it’s like to be a cyborg. And because we’re both fans of the genre, we discuss a little punk rock karaoke, as well.

Highlights of our conversation include:

  • One of the stories Janet wrote in high school and how it resulted in her getting to display a FANTASTIC power move. (1:38)

  • How we met via the writing group Upod and why having a strong writing community is important. (3:50)

  • A dive into the topic of Janet’s most popular story: vagina yogurt. (9:24)

  • Janet’s story about how she became a cyborg and her affinity for science writing. (18:51)

  • A look at Calamity Jay, Janet’s foray into crafting and upcycling. (22:06)

  • The glorious highs and lows of partaking in punk rock karaoke and how to pick good karaoke songs. (24:36)

  • Janet’s top three nonfiction works. (28:10)

We mentioned a lot of things in this episode! Check ‘em all out below.

The Murders at the Lake by Michael Hall

Astral Weeks (from Psychotic Reactions and Carburetor Dung) by Lester Bangs

Can You Say…Hero? by Tom Junod

Every Pokemon Move in Real Life

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#17: Guitar Lessons and Nightmare Gigs with Lance Ruby

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#15: The Art of Writing and Publishing with Eric Carasella