The Not My Job Pod

Emily Gant
  • 3.0 (2)
  • Politics
  • Updated Weekly

Known across social media for German political commentary and life-in-Germany explainers for an English language audience, The Not My Job Pod is an irregular full-length podcast hosted by Emily Gant interviewing mainly German politicians and Germany-based artists and small business owners. Emily makes content about things that interest her.Here, Emily talks to artists, political leaders, community builders, creatives, and curious minds about the passions, projects, and ideas that they're passionate about. This podcast is based in Berlin and heavily focused on the Berlin community. 

  1. 2d ago

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

    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 writes about people, politics, and power. This short episode discusses the social, political, and cultural factors shaping Germany's future and how society can foster unity. Subscribe to Chris' latest projects: https://www.chrishreiter.blog/ https://www.instagram.com/chrish_reiter/ In this Episode: Historical roots of nationalism in Germany The role of the social state in German identity East-West reunification and social structures Rise of the AFD and anti-establishment sentiment Potential pathways for political renewal and unity Instagram: @thenotmyjobpod // YouTube: @thenotmyjobpod // TikTok: @thenotmyjobpod

  2. Jul 26

    Werner Graf Co-Leads the Berlin Greens. Now He's Running for Mayor of Berlin.

    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 Wohnen referendum nobody in government wants to touch, and his vision for the city. We're Covering: Berlin housing policy and rent control Cultural funding and preservation in Berlin Transportation challenges and solutions in Berlin Berlin's political landscape and coalition prospects Impact of social media on politics and voter engagement Instagram: @thenotmyjobpod // YouTube: @thenotmyjobpod // TikTok: @thenotmyjobpod

  3. Jul 12

    The Artist-Business Owner Mindset for Creatives with James Song

    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 around what you love, creating a conversation that is as personal as it is intellectually sharp. -- art, Berlin, culture, funding, creativity, artist, city life, politics, entrepreneurship, art scene Instagram: @thenotmyjobpod // YouTube: @thenotmyjobpod // TikTok: @thenotmyjobpod

  4. Jun 28

    Exiled for Her Art: Faravaz on Music, Freedom & Resistance

    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 challenges of rebuilding a life in Germany as a refugee and artist. We also talk about her latest single, Passport, the role of music in social and political movements, supporting women's rights in Iran and Afghanistan, and why artistic expression remains one of the most powerful tools for challenging oppression. This conversation explores identity, belonging, activism, and the ways art can inspire change—even in the face of immense obstacles. Topics discussed: • Growing up in Tehran and discovering music • Censorship and restrictions on women in Iran • Arrest, exile, and starting over in Germany • Music as activism and resistance • Women's rights and social justice • Identity, belonging, and self-expression • The challenges facing artists today • How listeners can support marginalized voices If you enjoyed this conversation, don't forget to like, subscribe, and share it with someone who would find Faravaz's story inspiring. Instagram: @thenotmyjobpod // YouTube: @thenotmyjobpod // TikTok: @thenotmyjobpod

  5. Jun 21

    Joy as a Form of Activism with Berlin-Based Drag Queen, Judy LaDivina

    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 discussion, she emphasizes the need for open dialogue and the power of storytelling in bridging divides. In this engaging conversation, Judy and Emily explore the transformative power of performance and community, particularly in the context of drag shows. They discuss the shift from joy to conversation in the wake of conflict, the complexities of identity and justification, and the importance of inclusivity in politics and society. Judy emphasizes the need for compassion and understanding, advocating for a future where dialogue transcends division and celebrates shared humanity. Takeaways Judy Ladivina was born in Berlin, where she discovered her drag persona.Berlin provided Judy the freedom to explore her identity.The queer community offers a space for fluidity and exploration.Joy can be a powerful form of political activism.Tell Mama is an intimate show that invites audience interaction.The drag community in Berlin is supportive and collaborative.Language accessibility in theater is crucial for inclusivity.Judy has lip-synced in 52 languages, enhancing audience connection.Theater allows Judy to weave personal stories into performances.Bridging generational gaps requires understanding and patience. The power of performance can foster community and connection.Transforming joy into conversation can address deeper societal issues.Identity plays a crucial role in navigating conflict and understanding.Justification of violence is a complex and dangerous narrative.Moving beyond the past is essential for future progress.Inclusivity in politics is necessary for a functioning democracy.Expanding social circles can lead to richer conversations and understanding.Compassion and kindness are fundamental in addressing trauma and conflict.The future should focus on possibilities rather than divisions.Engagement in dialogue is key to fostering understanding and change.Instagram: @thenotmyjobpod // YouTube: @thenotmyjobpod // TikTok: @thenotmyjobpod

  6. Jun 14

    Bridging Borders: How Volt's European Approach Impacts Local Politics with Martin Hergert

    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 its pan-European approachHow international experiences influence local political perspectivesThe significance of civic participation beyond electionsChallenges faced in Berlin's housing market, including rent caps and urban developmentThe importance of digitalization and administrative efficiency in city governanceThe debate around extending voting rights to long-term residents and foreignersStrategies to combat political polarization and misinformationThe role of coalition-building and focus on key policiesMartin's realistic goals for Volt in Berlin's upcoming electionsHow local politics can learn from international best practicesMartin emphasizes that democracy extends far beyond voting - encouraging active participation at community levels, involvement in NGOs, sports clubs, and neighborhood initiatives. His perspective underscores the importance of pragmatic coalition building, policy focus, and citizen empowerment in shaping Berlin’s future. Instagram: @thenotmyjobpod // YouTube: @thenotmyjobpod // TikTok: @thenotmyjobpod

  7. Jun 7

    Navigating Relationships, Sexuality, and Cultural Nuances with Alexandra Suarez

    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 in medical versus counseling approaches to sexual healthThe importance of curiosity and self-awareness in exploring sexuality and relationshipsThe process of unpacking shame and internalized societal messagesNavigating culture and language barriers in multicultural relationshipsThe importance of safety, self-regulation, and gradual steps when exploring new sexual experiencesHow motherhood impacts personal identity, sexuality, and body relationshipThe role of vulnerability, emotional safety, and the polyvagal theory in therapyAdjusting to life in Berlin's open scene versus pursuing traditional relationship modelsThe potential future of counseling, including group therapy and the influence of AI toolsConnect with Alex Suarez InstagramWebsiteInstagram: @thenotmyjobpod // YouTube: @thenotmyjobpod // TikTok: @thenotmyjobpod

  8. Mar 30

    For the Love of Community: Berlin History & Humor with Pip Roper - Improv Actor & Berlin Tour Guide

    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 storytelling and gossip make history more engagingThe significance of community in personal and artistic growthHow Berlin’s unique scene fosters creativity and opennessThe role of humor and play in mental well-beingThe importance of local experiences over streaming fameStrategies for overcoming social anxiety and self-doubtThe influence of history on contemporary identity and politicsResources & Links: History Flakes PodcastComedy Cafe Berlin Instagram: @thenotmyjobpod // YouTube: @thenotmyjobpod // TikTok: @thenotmyjobpod

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Ratings & Reviews

3
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Known across social media for German political commentary and life-in-Germany explainers for an English language audience, The Not My Job Pod is an irregular full-length podcast hosted by Emily Gant interviewing mainly German politicians and Germany-based artists and small business owners. Emily makes content about things that interest her.Here, Emily talks to artists, political leaders, community builders, creatives, and curious minds about the passions, projects, and ideas that they're passionate about. This podcast is based in Berlin and heavily focused on the Berlin community. 

Information

  • Creator
    Emily Gant
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    33
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Not My Job Pod
  • Show Website
    The Not My Job Pod

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