The Artist Who Builds Joy - One Pom-Pom at a Time

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