Special Needs Teacher to Quirky Victorian Rapper ft. Paul Alborough

Get ready to be whisked away on an unforgettable career adventure! On this episode of The Career Equation Podcast, Erica Sosna sits down with the one and only Paul Alborough—better known to his devoted fans as Professor Elemental. From navigating the world of special needs education to donning a pith helmet and rapping about tea, Paul’s career is anything but ordinary.

What’s Inside This Episode

• From Teacher to Creator: Discover how Paul transitioned from teaching teenagers with special needs to carving out a niche as a steampunk-inspired chap-hop artist.
• Viral Success & Creativity: Paul shares the backstory of his viral hit "Cup of Brown Joy," his take on the DNA of creativity, and what it’s like to create in a genre that thrives on imagination and humor.
• The Joy of Community: With a commitment to inclusivity, Paul speaks about building a vibrant, quirky fanbase and making music that resonates deeply with nerdy, creative, and marginalized communities.
• Educational Roots: Hear how his background in education influences his performance workshops, where audiences young and old are invited to write and perform their own quirky rap lyrics.
• Resilience Through Reinvention: Paul reflects on overcoming setbacks, cultivating community, and staying nimble in the face of change to keep his creative career thriving over the years.

True Takeaways

• The Blending of Roles: Paul juggles educator, entertainer, and innovator seamlessly—proving that even the quirkiest career paths can transform into lifelong pursuits.
• The Power of Humor & Authenticity: Through his entertaining alter-ego, Paul brings lightness, joy, and authentic connection to everyone he meets—whether on stage or off.
• Building Creative Confidence: Paul shares how to thrive (even if you stumble along the way) by failing fast and leaning into creative collaboration.

A Bit About Paul

Paul Alborough, aka Professor Elemental, is a unique performer who combines imaginative steampunk storytelling with rap and comedy. Hailing from Brighton, Paul is not only known for his absurdly clever rhymes and theatrical stage presence but also for his dedication to fostering inclusivity and youth development through hip-hop workshops. A self-proclaimed "village idiot," he’s brought laughter, life lessons, and sheer eccentricity to countless audiences worldwide.

Don’t Miss This!

If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to leave a traditional career path behind for a life filled with creativity and connection, this episode is for you. Tune in for a delightful concoction of humor, wisdom, and stories you truly don’t want to miss.

 

➡️ Listen now and join the whimsical world of Professor Elemental!