Navigating Relationships, Sexuality, and Cultural Nuances with Alexandra Suarez

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 [https://www.instagram.com/thenotmyjobpod/] // YouTube: @thenotmyjobpod [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC59TOW5bew0ryM_9Y3ZVq9w] // TikTok: @thenotmyjobpod

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 [https://www.instagram.com/thenotmyjobpod/] // YouTube: @thenotmyjobpod [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC59TOW5bew0ryM_9Y3ZVq9w] // TikTok: @thenotmyjobpod

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 [https://www.instagram.com/thenotmyjobpod/] // YouTube: @thenotmyjobpod [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC59TOW5bew0ryM_9Y3ZVq9w] // TikTok: @thenotmyjobpod

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 Volt * The core principles and values of Volt and its pan-European approach * How international experiences influence local political perspectives * The significance of civic participation beyond elections * Challenges faced in Berlin's housing market, including rent caps and urban development * The importance of digitalization and administrative efficiency in city governance * The debate around extending voting rights to long-term residents and foreigners * Strategies to combat political polarization and misinformation * The role of coalition-building and focus on key policies * Martin's realistic goals for Volt in Berlin's upcoming elections * How local politics can learn from international best practices Martin 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 [https://www.instagram.com/thenotmyjobpod/] // YouTube: @thenotmyjobpod [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC59TOW5bew0ryM_9Y3ZVq9w] // TikTok: @thenotmyjobpod

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 path * Differences in medical versus counseling approaches to sexual health * The importance of curiosity and self-awareness in exploring sexuality and relationships * The process of unpacking shame and internalized societal messages * Navigating culture and language barriers in multicultural relationships * The importance of safety, self-regulation, and gradual steps when exploring new sexual experiences * How motherhood impacts personal identity, sexuality, and body relationship * The role of vulnerability, emotional safety, and the polyvagal theory in therapy * Adjusting to life in Berlin's open scene versus pursuing traditional relationship models * The potential future of counseling, including group therapy and the influence of AI tools Connect with Alex Suarez * Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/onloveandsex/] * Website [https://www.alexandra-suarez.com/] Instagram: @thenotmyjobpod [https://www.instagram.com/thenotmyjobpod/] // YouTube: @thenotmyjobpod [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC59TOW5bew0ryM_9Y3ZVq9w] // TikTok: @thenotmyjobpod