He’s had 70 jobs, made joy his mission, and is building the world’s biggest pom-pom 😮 Meet Joe Martine - aka. Pom-Pom Joe.

This episode is one big warm hug from a man who’s seen it all and still believes in the power of play. I had so much fun recording this one!

Joe’s story will have you laughing, crying, and nodding furiously as we dive into everything from bullying and burnout to sidewalk art and why pom-poms might just save the world.

We talk about what it means to really connect with people... And no, not through likes and follows, but in the queue at the bakery or with a stranger on a park bench. Joe’s a self-proclaimed “people person,” and his journey from being a bullied teen in Chicago to an artist lighting up Düsseldorf with joy is nothing short of gorgeous.

You’ll hear about:

Why Germany made him a wee bit quieter (and what New York brought out in him)

parenting and pom-poms and parenting with pom-poms 😂

How humour became his shield, his bridge, and eventually his art

The surprising moment that kick-started his art career in a local café

the deep, global message behind his playful installations

And honestly, I’m still thinking about his story of drawing with his mum and how those small creative moments shaped everything. Our roles as parents should never be underestimated!

This one’s for anyone who’s ever felt a bit too weird, a bit too loud, or like they had to choose between joy and paying the bills. It’s a reminder that art matters, play matters, and you — just as you are — are worthy of connection and creativity.

Berlin 2025 hasn't happened just yet - so make sure you stay tuned! I genuinely can't wait!

You'll find all the details here:

Website: https://www.rainbowhandshake.com

IG: https://www.instagram.com/pompomjoe/

And if you want to support Joe on his Superfuzz Bigfluff mission, please purchase some of his amazing art here: https://www.rainbowhandshake.com/store/c2/rainbow-handshake-shop.

Want to know more about the podcast? 🪩https://www.anotherstoryhouse.com/anotherstorypod-1/

or drop me an email at ✉️ info@anotherstorypod.com

Follow on Instagram for more stories & behind-the-scenes 📸 @anotherstorypod

If you liked this episode and want to support the podcast, you can buy me a virtual coffee ☕️ https://buymeacoffee.com/anotherstoryhouse

Tag a mate who needs a little colour in their day 🌈

#podcast #anotherstorypod #art #artist #nft #resillience #inspiration #pompomjoe #creativity #artasresistance #joy #vulnerability #humanconnection #parentingwithart #mindsetshift #honestconversations