The Not My Job Pod

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...

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 c...

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 backgrou...

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 To...

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 tour...

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 opt...

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 B...

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 experienc...

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 foo...

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 conversatio...

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 a...

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...

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 friendshi...

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 cul...

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 authent...

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...

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 h...

Berlin-based DJ putC joins Emily Gant to discuss the techno scene in Berlin, the role of collectives, and the unique culture of Berlin's nightlife. putC explores the journey of becoming a DJ, the importance of community, and the challenges of balancing passion with practicality. Instagram: @thenotmyjobpod // YouTube: @thenotmyjobpod  // TikTok: @thenotmyjobpod

Stand-up comedian Erica Switzer shares her journey through the comedy scene, from her beginnings in Shanghai to her current experiences in Chicago. The discussion delves into the evolution of her comedic style, the unique challenges faced in different cultural contexts, and the impact of social media on the comedy landscape. Erica reflects on her identity as a black woman in comedy, the importance...

Emily Gant interviews Lauren Morgan, a non-traditional medical student and wellness coach. They discuss Lauren's journey to medical school, the challenges of balancing motherhood with her studies, and the importance of community support. The conversation also delves into the differences between DO and MD paths, the integration of mental health in medicine, and the emerging role of psychedelic...

Judge Juli Mathew shares her journey from an immigrant background to becoming a judge in Texas. She discusses the challenges of campaigning, the importance of community engagement, and her experiences as a female judge. Juli reflects on her cultural identity, the judicial process, and the significance of hard work and resilience in overcoming obstacles. Through her insights, she emphasizes the nee...

In this solo episode, Emily Gant reflects on her journey of creating a podcast, discussing the challenges of social media, the pressure to perform, and the importance of connection and community. She shares her thoughts on balancing content creation with personal life, the complexities of learning, and the choices we make in pursuing our passions. Emily emphasizes the need for community spaces and...

In this conversation, Blair and Emily explore the intersection of somatic therapy, internal family systems, and the importance of community in mental health. They discuss how trauma affects the body, the role of spirituality in healing, and the challenges of building connections in a digital age. The dialogue emphasizes the need for vulnerability, empathy, and the significance of small talk in fos...

In this episode, Emily Gant speaks with Hope Maguire, a new entrepreneur launching a leak-free bra designed for breastfeeding mothers. Hope shares her journey from the initial idea to product development, highlighting the challenges faced in creating a sustainable and functional product. The conversation delves into the societal pressures surrounding motherhood, the importance of community support...

Join host Emily Gant as she sits down with Heather Villasenor, a dedicated behavioral health clinician specializing in youth and family therapy. In this episode, they explore the intricacies of working with young clients, the importance of letting the mind wander, and the unique challenges faced by therapists in today's fast-paced world.  Heather also shares her journey from the Peace Corps t...