• Finding Refuge in São Paulo: Yoga, Hidden Gems & the Art of Slowing Down with Nathalia Cuturic
    Apr 2 2025

    In the bustling heart of São Paulo, finding moments of peace is essential. In this episode of Why São Paulo, Emily chats with Natalhia Cuturic, a yoga instructor at Vidya Yoga, about creating balance in a fast-paced city. They explore hidden sanctuaries like bookstores and parks, the kindness of Paulistanos, and the joy of slowing down. Whether you're a local or visiting, this episode is packed with insights on how to recharge and connect with the soul of São Paulo.

    🌿 Highlights:

    • Natalia’s favorite peaceful spot in the city: Martins Fontes Bookstore on Paulista Avenue 📚

    • The warmth and kindness of Paulistanos—how they embrace newcomers

    • The importance of slowing down in a city that never stops

    • How yoga and meditation help balance urban chaos

    • The power of human connection in friendships and family life

    Tune in for a heartwarming conversation that captures the magic of São Paulo!

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    24 mins
  • 3. Navigating the Nuances of Business Culture In São Paulo
    Mar 6 2025

    The bustling streets of São Paulo and New York City share a familiar energy, but their business cultures couldn't be more different. What drives professionals to thrive in both cities?

    For professionals considering international career moves or doing business in Brazil, understanding the nuances between American directness and Brazilian relationship-building could make or break your success.

    In this episode, you will gain authentic insights about work-life dynamics in São Paulo versus other global cities, learn practical tips for navigating cultural differences in business settings, and discover why São Paulo is considered the powerhouse of Latin America.

    Join Emily Witt and Mônica Ramos Machado as they share their firsthand experiences navigating professional life between São Paulo and major global cities.

    Topics Discussed:

    • Cultural differences in business practices between Brazil, US, and Europe
    • The importance of relationship-building in Brazilian business culture
    • Work-life balance comparisons across different regions
    • São Paulo's unique position as Latin America's business hub
    • The challenges and rewards of international career moves
    • The significance of proper business etiquette in Brazil
    • Impact of time zones on global business operations
    • Adaptation strategies for different business cultures
    • The evolution of professional identity across cultures
    • Tips for foreigners working with Brazilian companies
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    33 mins
  • 2. How to Find Your Community in São Paulo
    Feb 6 2025

    Have you ever wondered how to build authentic connections in a city of over 11 million people? In this heartwarming episode of Why São Paulo, host Emily Witt sits down with Eiki Sasaki, a lifelong Paulista who transformed from a self-described introvert into a community builder through his work with Talk Talk Speaking Club. Listeners will discover the magic of Parque da Aclimação, learn practical strategies for meeting new people in São Paulo, and gain insights into how diversity shapes Brazil's largest city. From finding hidden park gems to joining vibrant language exchange communities, this episode reveals how anyone can create meaningful connections in São Paulo. Press play to uncover how this dynamic city brings people together in unexpected ways.

    Topics Discussed:

    • Parque da Aclimação as a hidden gem in São Paulo
    • The evolution of Talk Talk Speaking Club
    • Making friends in a megacity
    • Cross-cultural connections and language exchange
    • Marathon training in urban parks
    • What it means to be a Paulista
    • Post-pandemic community building
    • São Paulo's diverse population
    • International relationships formed through meetups
    • Building bridges across different cultures
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    26 mins
  • 1. Raising a Family in São Paulo: Insights from a Lawyer & Children's Book Author
    Jan 10 2025

    Summary

    In this debut episode of Why São Paulo, Marcela Levy shares her personal experiences and insights about living in São Paulo, Brazil. She discusses her favorite local spots, the cultural identity tied to different regions in Brazil, and the importance of family and community. Marcela also reflects on the vibrant literary scene in São Paulo, the arts and culture that thrive in the city and offers advice for newcomers. Additionally, she highlights her work as a children's book author, emphasizing the significance of storytelling in her life.

    Takeaways

    • Marcela shares her favorite local spot, Praça de Milão, which holds special memories with her family.
    • Cultural identity in Brazil is deeply tied to regional differences, with unique accents and lifestyles.
    • Family proximity is a significant factor in choosing to live in São Paulo.
      he strong support system for parents in Brazil, from family involvement to accessible childcare, is a major advantage.
    • São Paulo has a lively literary scene with numerous bookstores and cultural events.
    • The city offers a rich array of artistic experiences, from museums to street art.
    • Newcomers to São Paulo should take their time to adjust to the city's vastness and complexity.
    • The welcoming nature of São Paulo contrasts with other cities, making it easier for foreigners to integrate.
    • Marcela's children's books address themes of family and modern parenting.
    • The importance of community and shared experiences is a recurring theme in Marcela's life.

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    31 mins
  • Trailer: Why São Paulo? New Podcast Exploring Brazil's Dynamic Cultural Hub
    Jan 9 2025

    Ever wondered what makes São Paulo, Brazil, a magnetic force for creatives and innovators worldwide? Host Emily Witt takes a bold step away from her successful legal podcast to immerse herself in the pulsating heart of South America's dynamic metropolis. Widely regarded as a cultural hub, São Paulo is home to world-class art galleries, a thriving music and nightlife scene, and a culinary landscape that reflects the city's incredible diversity. In this special announcement episode, Emily shares her vision for 'Why São Paulo?' - a new podcast that promises to uncover the soul of this incredible city through intimate conversations with its people and exploration of its unique spaces. Listeners will gain authentic insights into Brazilian culture, discover hidden gems of São Paulo's urban landscape, and understand what makes this city a global hub of creativity and innovation.

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    1 min
  • Beyond The Legal Lens Podcast #56: How to Make an Impact While Thriving in Big Law
    Aug 22 2024

    Ever wonder how a big law career can align with your passion for making a difference? This episode's guest is Jamie Schafer who explains her path to fulfillment and the advice she has learned along the way. Jamie is a Partner in Perkins Coie’s White Collar & Investigations practice as well as the International Transactions & Trade practice. She is also a co-chair of the firm’s Sports industry group. Jamie represents entities and individuals in complex U.S. domestic and cross-border criminal and regulatory matters.

    In this episode, learn how to:

    Leverage big law resources for social impact
    Build niche expertise in areas you're passionate about
    Use pro bono work to develop skills and drive change

    Tune in now to discover how Jamie Schaffer found purpose and made a meaningful impact while thriving in Big Law.

    Topics discussed:

    Jamie's journey to becoming a lawyer
    Developing expertise in white collar and international law
    Leveraging pro bono work for skill development
    Balancing big law demands with personal interests
    Using law firm resources for social impact
    Importance of mentorship and networking
    Adapting to changing work environments
    Strategies for career intentionality
    Involvement in Scouts and driving organizational change

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    32 mins
  • Beyond the Legal Lens Podcast #55: How to Align Your Personal Values with Your Legal Practice, with Chris Jones
    Jun 28 2024

    Ever wonder how to find true fulfillment in your legal career?

    Many lawyers struggle to align their work with their values and desire for a balanced lifestyle.

    In this episode, we're joined by Chris Jones, a startup attorney who found his path to freedom and meaning through law.

    You'll learn how to:

    1. Connect your spirituality to your legal practice
    2. Find innovative law firms that support work-life balance
    3. Use career breaks to gain perspective and new skills

    Listen now to discover how you can transform your legal career into a path of freedom, meaning, and personal growth. Chris shares his journey from big law to entrepreneurship and back to a fulfilling legal practice, offering valuable insights for lawyers at any stage of their career.

    Topics discussed:

    • Meditation and spirituality in legal practice
    • Transitioning from traditional law to startup and tech law
    • The benefits of taking career breaks
    • Finding alignment between personal values and legal work
    • Building meaningful relationships with clients
    • Innovative law firm models
    • Overcoming fear to make career changes
    • Blending entrepreneurship and legal practice
    • Learning from experienced founders and deal-makers
    • The importance of trust and creativity in client relationships
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    35 mins
  • Beyond the Legal Lens Podcast #54: How To Find Purpose in Law as a Public Interest Lawyer
    Jun 6 2024

    Have you ever felt a strong sense of purpose but struggled to find a career that aligns with your values?

    Many professionals seek fulfilling work that allows them to make a meaningful impact, but it can be challenging to navigate the transition into a different field, especially one as demanding as public interest law.

    In this episode you will:

    • Gain insights into the rewarding journey of a public interest attorney dedicated to serving immigrant communities.
    • Discover practical strategies for exploring new career paths while maintaining work-life balance.
    • Learn how to leverage networking and mentorship opportunities to pursue your passion.

    Tune in to this inspiring conversation with Ernie Collette, a dedicated public interest attorney, as he shares his transformative journey and offers invaluable advice for those seeking purposeful work.

    Topics Discussed

    • Ernie's personal journey and what led him to public interest law
    • Balancing passion and preventing burnout in demanding legal work
    • The importance of mentorship and representation in the legal profession
    • Practical advice for exploring new career paths through networking
    • The emotional fulfillment of helping clients in immigration law
    • Navigating the transition into public interest work
    • Strategies for maintaining work-life balance
    • The role of curiosity and continuous learning in career growth
    • Overcoming the fear of saying "no" and setting boundaries
    • Building a supportive community for underrepresented groups in law
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    30 mins