Meet Mish Barber-Way: Producer and writer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Mish Barber-Way and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Mish, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
My husband and I both run our own businesses and we have a young child with another on the way so a work life balance is really important. We are lucky enough to have struck a balance in our parenting, domestic, and financial duties so that we each get to be parent and breadwinner. My husband runs his own custom furniture and metal fabrication company called Barber Fabrication, and I am a producer and writer for a popular true crime podcast. In the last year we have tried to work out the kinks of the ebb and flow in our work life so that we each get to play full time parent at some point while the other takes over with work. When his work slows down, then mine usually picks up and I will take on extra freelance writing jobs while he gets to be full time dad, and visa versa. We try to prioritize family time as much as possible because that is what is most important. We both feel very lucky to live how we do. 

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am a writer and producer who currently works for a popular true-crime podcast app. I have been a freelance writer and editor for the last decade and have worked for various print and online publications. Before moving into the podcast space, I was the executive editor of the infamous men’s magazine, Penthouse. Though I’ve been publishing writing for the last 10 years. my main job during my twenties was singing in my band, White Lung. We spent most of our time on tour all over the world and have released four full-length albums, the latest of which were on Domino Recording Co. Since moving to the country, having a child, and settling down, I have stopped touring for a few years and focused on writing. (However, White Lung will be releasing an album in 2021.) My husband, Austin Barber, is also a creative professional. He has a custom furniture and metal fabrication company called Barber Fabrication, which has become our family business. He is such an innovative designer and builder. I am lucky to have a house filled with his amazing furniture.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I called Los Angeles home for five years, but have since moved an hour north to a small town in the mountains. My husband and I always gravitated towards weird spots. Best bars? The Hideaway in Kegal Canyon (plus the ride up there is pretty), Footsies in Highland Park, Jumbos Clown Room (the best strip club in Los Angeles), Tiki-Ti Cocktail Lounge on Sunset (you used to be able to smoke in there, but I bet that’s changed.) Best food? Din Tai Fung in Glendale, Huarache Azteca in Eagle Rock, Canters in West Hollywood, Chego in Chinatown, and Rose City Pizza in Rosemead. I am a big hiker and really miss the amazing views and trails in Los Angeles. All the most beautiful trails start in Sierre Madre and Altadena, except for the Beaudry Loop, which begins in North Glendale. It’s a serious workout and you are guaranteed to see at least four rattlesnakes. I guess this is all kind of outskirts of central Los Angeles, but that’s where I spent most of my time. This city is sprawling and there’s always a new place to discover.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
As for my work as a writer and producer, I would have to give a big shoutout to my first editor, Hana May who taught me so many basics about journalism and storytelling that I did not know. She took a chance on me and really helped me by letting me make mistakes and try weird story angles, while always steering me back on track. I learned so much about writing from her. I will always be grateful for her patience and direction.

Website: www.mishway.com, www.barberfabrication.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/barber_fabrication/
Other: https://www.etsy.com/shop/BarberFabrication

Image Credits
These are all pieces from my husband’s furniture company, Barber Fabrication. You can find more at: barberfabrication.com, or his Instagram @barber_fabrication.