Meet Janel Schermerhorn: MSc Student, Podcast Producer and American Mom in Berlin

Janel Schermerhorn is a diversely educated professional, world traveler and most important of all: a mom! Faced with the unique experience of navigating life in a foreign country during a global pandemic, Janel shared her story on Mom’s Secret Fort (a podcast which she produced).

Janel Schermerhorn is an American mom who wears many hats — both personally and professionally. During the COVID-19 / coronavirus global pandemic, Janel embraced the unique experience of living in Berlin, Germany as an American mom. This adventure turned into the inspiration for Mom’s Secret Fort, a podcast created and produced by Janel Schermerhorn. While living in Germany, Janel also stood as President of the American Women’s Club of Berlin.

MSc Student

Janel Schermerhorn is an MSc Student at The University of Edinburgh. Janel is pursuing a Master of Science (MS) in Data, Inequality and Society. Her MSc focuses on Data Ethics, Decolonization of Data and Building Near Futures. Janel maintains additional degrees and certifications in Psychology, Management and Project Management. Janel’s expertise in these areas has been strengthened through years of experience as a professional and volunteer, both in the US and abroad.

Podcast Producer

Janel Schermerhorn is the Host, Creator and Podcast Producer of Mom’s Secret Fort. Launched during the height of the coronavirus / COVID-19, Mom’s Secret Fort details Janel’s unique experience of living in a foreign country during a global pandemic. As a professional and volunteer who is focused on immersing herself in the community, the pandemic required Janel to reshape how she connects with others. Mom’s Secret Fort (podcast) was a response to that. On the podcast, Janel shared moments from her day as an American living in Berlin. Acting a voice of hope and humor in trying times of collective anxiety, the Podcast Producer welcomed all to Mom’s Secret Fort to relax in the midst of chaos.