Playlist: Writer & Blogger Mindy Koschmann
This week gives us the rare pleasure of peering inside at one of our own. Mindy Koschmann is a writer at Herman Miller and a blogger for Discover, the sibling blog to Lifework. As a writer, it’s no surprise that Mindy is drawn to stories, be they in books, cinema, and of course, music. Literally surrounded by Herman Miller chairs, Mindy tells us her work’s musical story in this week’s Playlist.
What do you listen to while you work?
Mainly to things that are fairly mellow, like Bon Iver, Band of Horses, and Blind Pilot. And apparently I only listen to things that start with the letter “B”…
How do you listen?
Typically with headphones and my laptop.
Do you have any favorite music websites/providers?
A friend just introduced me to an amazing site – Rdio. I also use Pandora and stream NPR’s All Songs Considered.
Does music influence your work?
I’m a writer, so I’m sort of naturally attracted to story songs. I’m amazed how songwriters like the Decemberists‘ Colin Meloy only need a few minutes to tell an epic tale. I suppose the same is true of copywriting. You only get a few words to capture the reader and convey an impactful message.
Where do you find music recommendations? Who influences your musical taste?
David Dye and World Café have changed my life. The man’s taste is impeccable.
What song or artist best represents the work you create?
I help with the development of Herman Miller’s online product campaigns, and the messaging always speaks to the timelessness and innovation of our designs. So it would have to be someone like Tori Amos or Bjork— both amazing musicians who aren’t afraid to take risks.
Ideal place to sit and listen to your playlist:
My playlist is mellow but also challenging — to really appreciate the songs you need to listen to the words. So it would definitely be an Eames Lounge Chair — a beautiful place to settle in and enjoy the songs as the stories unfold.
Mindy’s Playlist:
1. The Story I Heard, Blind Pilot
2. Live and Die, The Avett Brothers
3. In My Time, Kurt Vile
4. We Both Go Down Together, The Decemberists
5. No One’s Gonna Love You, Band of Horses
6. I’m Writing a Novel, Father John Misty
7. Romulus, Sufjan Stevens
8. Bloodbuzz Ohio, The National
9. Velcro, Bell X1
10. Heaven, The Walkmen
Photos: Mindy Koschmann/David Foster
Rather selling the products than provding the
social and cultural relations.