The Not My Job Pod

Epizode

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  German Unity & Identity: Journalist Chris Reiter on Ethnic Nationalism & the Rise of the AfD 10.09.2026 28min

  This recording session was not intended to be a standalone episode. We filmed with the intention of creating social media short-form content. There were a lot of requests for the wider conversation, so here's a quick edit. I highly recommend reading Chris Reiter's book, Broken Republik, for more detail. We explore many themes from his 2025 book: the rise of far-right nationalism in Germany, its historical roots, and potential paths forward. Chris Reiter is an ex-Bloomberg journalist who wri...
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  Werner Graf Co-Leads the Berlin Greens. Now He's Running for Mayor of Berlin. 27.07.2026 43min

  Werner Graf wants to be Berlin's next mayor. First, he has to convince you Berlin still works. Ahead of the September 20 Abgeordnetenhaus election, I sat down with Werner Graf (co-leader of the Green parliamentary group and the party's candidate for Regierender Bürgermeister) to talk about what five years of CDU-led governance have actually done to this city, whether the Greens have a real path back to power, and what he'd do differently this time. We get into housing, mobility, the Deutsche ...
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  The Artist-Business Owner Mindset for Creatives with James Song 13.07.2026 44min

  This episode is a thoughtful, wide-ranging conversation about Berlin, creativity, and the realities of building a meaningful career in the arts. Emily sits down with artist and tattooist James Song to explore everything from the politics of cultural funding to the tension between artistic expression and commercial success, all while unpacking what makes Berlin such a magnetic city for creatives. Along the way, they touch on identity, community, balance, and the economics of making a life arou...
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  Exiled for Her Art: Faravaz on Music, Freedom & Resistance 29.06.2026 42min

  What does it cost to use your voice? In this episode, Emily sits down with Faravaz, an Iranian musician and activist whose journey from Tehran to Berlin is a powerful story of resilience, courage, and resistance. Faravaz shares what it was like growing up in Iran, navigating a music industry where women face significant restrictions, and the decision to continue creating and sharing music despite the risks. We discuss the events that led to her arrest, her eventual exile from Iran, and the ch...
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  Joy as a Form of Activism with Berlin-Based Drag Queen, Judy LaDivina 22.06.2026 48min

  Judy LaDivina shares her journey from Tel Aviv to Berlin, where she discovered her drag persona and the queer community. She discusses the importance of joy as a form of activism, the challenges within the queer community, and her role in empowering new drag artists through her show, Tell Mama. Judy also reflects on her experiences in theater, the significance of language in performance, and the complexities of navigating personal relationships, particularly with her family. Throughout the di...
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  Bridging Borders: How Volt's European Approach Impacts Local Politics with Martin Hergert 15.06.2026 51min

  In this interview with Martin Hergert, a Berlin candidate for the Berlin Senate with the Volt party, as we explore innovative politics at the local and European levels. Martin shares insights on how European values translate into local policy, the housing crisis in Berlin, and ways for residents (particularly immigrants) to become more involved in democracy. In this episode: Martin's background in business and his transition into politics with VoltThe core principles and values of Volt and it...
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  Navigating Relationships, Sexuality, and Cultural Nuances with Alexandra Suarez 08.06.2026 47min

  Berlin-based sex and relationship counselor Alexandra Suarez shares insights on the complexities of sexual and relationship health, cultural influences, and navigating personal growth in a dynamic city like Berlin. Whether you're exploring open relationships, cultural differences, or personal boundaries, Alexandra offers practical guidance rooted in psychological and somatic awareness. Key Topics How Alex's academic background in sexuality and gender studies shaped his career pathDifferences ...
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  For the Love of Community: Berlin History & Humor with Pip Roper - Improv Actor & Berlin Tour Guide 30.03.2026 58min

  Join Emily Gant as she chats with Pip Roper, a Berlin-based tour guide, improviser, and podcast host, about the joys and challenges of creativity, community, and navigating late-stage capitalism. This episode dives into the power of humor, the importance of authentic human connections, and how embracing your passions can transform your outlook on life. In this episode, we discuss: How guiding tours and improv comedy bring both joy and incomeThe enduring value of human connection in tourismWhy...
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  Leaving the US for Europe: Moving to Paris vs Berlin with Content Creator, @ LizLeatrice 16.03.2026 52min

  In this episode, Emily Gant hosts Liz Lee, a Paris-based content creator, to share her firsthand experience navigating the complex visa landscape in France. From visa types and legal nuances to the realities of expatriate life, this conversation offers practical advice for anyone considering a move to France. - Differences between expat and immigrant statuses and their implications French visa options including long stay visitor and talent visas - The impact of remote work restrictions on vi...
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  Community, Consent, Clubbing: The Awareness Teams Keeps the Party Going in Berlin 02.03.2026 42min

  Emily Gant interviews Goatz about the unique techno club culture in Berlin, focusing on the role of awareness teams in ensuring safety and creating a supportive environment. They discuss the differences between clubbing in Berlin and New York, the importance of community, and the resources available for harm reduction. Goatz shares personal experiences and insights into the evolving landscape of Berlin's nightlife, emphasizing the creativity and inclusivity that define the scene. Awareness ...
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  Berlin, History & the Algorithm: Jonny Whitlam on Tour Guiding and Going Viral 16.02.2026 56min

  Jonny Whitlam, a seasoned tour guide in Berlin, shares his journey from guiding tours to becoming a content creator on social media. He discusses the challenges and rewards of self-employment, the importance of engaging with diverse audiences, and the impact of AI on content creation. The conversation also touches on the complexities of Berlin's history, the balance between personal experiences and historical facts, and the need for tour guides to adapt to the evolving landscape of tourism. J...
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  Food Is Love, Paperwork Is Pain: Nam Nhito on Growing Up in 2 Cultures & Owning 2 Spas 02.02.2026 50min

  Emily and Nam discuss the journey of opening two spas in Berlin, the challenges of navigating bureaucracy, and the cultural differences between Vietnamese and German perspectives. Nam shares insights on managing work-life balance while juggling his day job and the spas, as well as reflections on growing up in Berlin as a second culture kid. The conversation also delves into the significance of food sharing in Vietnamese culture and how it contrasts with German norms. Nam opened two spas in Be...
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  Capturing Confidence: Marina Antonova, Founder of The Atma Portrait Studio Explores Beauty Standards & Entrepreneurship 19.01.2026 55min

  In this episode, Emily Gant interviews Marina, the founder of Atma Portrait Studio in Berlin. They discuss the unique concept of the studio, which caters to camera-shy individuals and aims to boost self-confidence through photography. Marina shares her journey of starting a small business, the challenges of self-employment, and the importance of self-acceptance and body positivity. The conversation also touches on cultural influences on beauty standards and how Marina's tech background has he...
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  Founding The Felt Room Berlin: Rob Connor & Marius Werani on Building an Intimate Piano Community 05.01.2026 48min

  In this episode of The Not My Job Pod, host Emily Gant speaks with Marius and Rob, the co-founders of Felt Room, a unique concert space in Berlin. They discuss the origins of Felt Room, the atmosphere they aim to create, and the importance of community engagement. The conversation delves into their musical backgrounds, the design of the space, and the unique sound produced by felt pianos. Marius and Rob share insights on artist selection, balancing their personal lives with their passion for ...
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  Touring with Saint Motel & Other Bands: James Gerhart on Being a Roadie through the US & Europe 29.12.2025 57min

  What actually is a roadie and how do you become one? In this episode, host Emily Gant sits down with James Gerhart, a touring roadie for Saint Motel and other popular bands, to pull back the curtain on life on the road. From European tour buses to merch math, different crowds, and meeting famous musicians, James explains the unglamorous, hilarious, and surprisingly technical reality of making live music happen. What a roadie actually does (and what people get wrong) How James became a roadi...
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  Redefining Happiness: Anna Vasileva on Leaving Tech, Intellectual Property, and Living a Child-Free Life 22.12.2025 57min

  In this episode of The Not My Job Pod, host Emily Gant speaks with Anna Vasileva about her journey from the tech industry to a more fulfilling career in publishing and licensing. They discuss the challenges of work culture, the impact of piracy on intellectual property, and the importance of personal time and mental health. Anna shares her experiences of moving with pets, the dynamics of friendships, and the creative freedom found in Berlin. The conversation highlights the significance of fin...
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  From Tech to Table: Peter Sum's Culinary Journey with Kenzy Club & Creating a Food Community 15.12.2025 56min

  Emily Gant chats with Peter Sum, a former tech professional turned culinary artist, who shares his journey from the tech industry to the culinary world. Peter discusses the influence of Berlin on his life choices, the importance of community, and the evolution of his culinary style through experimentation and feedback. He reflects on the unique food scene in Berlin, the challenges of running a culinary business, and the inspiration behind his venture, Kenzy. The conversation emphasizes the si...
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  The Multi-Dimensional Interests of a "Yorkshireman Abroad" in Berlin 08.12.2025 56min

  In this conversation, Emily Gant speaks with Thomas Davies, known as The Yorkshireman Abroad, about the unique lifestyle in Berlin, balancing work and personal passions, the evolving nightlife scene, and the impact of social media on personal identity. They explore themes of sobriety, community, and the challenges of making connections in a new city, while also discussing the importance of authenticity in content creation and the balance between capitalism and local culture. Thomas shares ins...
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  10 Unwritten Rules of Life (Since turning 35) 06.10.2025 23min

  In this solo episode, Emily Gant reflects on her life experiences and shares her personal insights through the lens of the '10 unwritten laws of life.' She discusses her recent milestone of turning 35, the shift from goal-oriented thinking to finding joy in the present, and the importance of effort in friendships. Emily also explores the nuances of money in relationships, the difference between being tired and burnt out, and her love for cities, particularly Paris. The episode concludes with ...
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  Medical School in Germany: A Gen Z Perspective from Mia Warnecke 29.09.2025 1h

  Emily Gant interviews Mia Warnecke, a first-year medical student in Germany. They discuss Mia's journey into medicine, the influence of her family, and the importance of gender health awareness. The conversation explores the differences in educational systems between Germany and Canada, the challenges of student life in Berlin, and the significance of empathy in medical training. Mia shares her aspirations for travel and independence, as well as her thoughts on generational differences in soc...