All episodes

Week 51: Wichteln, Mangos and US elections

Week 51: Wichteln, Mangos and US elections

27m 54s

Today we are sitting down with Eden from the podcast “common ground Berlin.“ Originally from the US, Eden brings a unique perspective as we delve into the aftermath of the recent US elections. Today, roughly one month post-election, we'll explore how Germans and Americans living in Germany perceive the election results and their implications.
In our culture segment, we'll uncover the traditions behind "Wichteln" and share some tips on how to find the perfect gift for "Schrottwichteln." Plus, we'll wrap up with this week's news highlights, keeping you informed on the latest happenings.

Week 50: Weihnachtsmarkt, Ausländerbehörde and Parrots on Birth Control

Week 50: Weihnachtsmarkt, Ausländerbehörde and Parrots on Birth Control

27m 2s

With only two weeks left until Christmas, the festive spirit is alive and well across Germany. So let’s focus on one of the most cherished traditions of the season: Weihnachtsmärkte! In our Interview segment we are talking with Arikia, who is originally from the U.S., with a Greek name and Irish surname. After living in Berlin for over seven years, she’s finally secured her permanent resident permit. But this whole process often involves many steps and hurdles, which Arikia will share with us. We will also talk about pets of all kinds, how they are basically our children and what...

Week 49: Nikolaus, Expat Life and Housing Situations

Week 49: Nikolaus, Expat Life and Housing Situations

33m 41s

In today’s episode we are talking with Nikos. He is originally from Greece and now lives in Amsterdam, where he co-founded the platform “I am Expat.“ In our Interview section Nikos will tell us a little bit more about his website and events and how the Netherlands somehow cracked the welcome culture for expats. We’ll also dive into a comparison between Amsterdam and Berlin, discussing not only the job market and housing situation but also the social dynamics of making friends in the cities. In our culture segment we will explore the origins of Nikolaus Day and how families across...

Week 48: Adventszeit, Wahlheimat and Elections

Week 48: Adventszeit, Wahlheimat and Elections

28m 23s

In this episode, we sit down with Ivan Gabor, who has been living in Berlin for eight years. We will discuss his project "WahlheYmat," a playful take on the German word "Wahlheimat," which describes the home one has chosen. Together with Ivan, we will talk about how his organization helps expats in Germany, discuss the upcoming elections, and explore feelings of belonging while navigating not only bureaucracy but also human connections. In our culture segment, we will kick off the festive season by taking a closer look at Advent and in our weekly news wrap-up we discuss some new updates...

Week 47: Totensonntag, Commitment issues and Birthday Wishes

Week 47: Totensonntag, Commitment issues and Birthday Wishes

24m 59s

Igor has been living in Germany for over 12 years and currently resides in Berlin, where he curates the weekly newsletter “Handpicked Berlin." In this episode, we will talk with him about how the expat community in Germany has evolved over the years and share tips on how to survive the Berlin winters. In our “Ask a German“-segment you will learn why you should always look Germans into the eyes when clinking glasses and never to wish them an early “Happy Birthday.“ Additionally, we will take a look at this week's updates and explore the significance of the German "Totensonntag."

Week 46: New Antisemitism Resolution, Sauna Culture and Rundfunkbeitrag

Week 46: New Antisemitism Resolution, Sauna Culture and Rundfunkbeitrag

24m 58s

Join us today as we sit down with Jen and Yvonne from Simple Germany. One of them is a Latina, while the other is a "deutsche Süßkartoffel," and together they have created a platform that helps expats become experts in navigating life in Germany and manage everything smoothly. In this episode, they will share some valuable tips on how to get started in Germany and highlight common mistakes to avoid. As always, you can also look forward to the latest news and insights into German culture.

Week 44: Jugendwort of the Year, Halloween and Building Ikea Furniture

Week 44: Jugendwort of the Year, Halloween and Building Ikea Furniture

29m 36s

Do you have Aura or absolutely no idea what we are talking about? Listen to today’s episode to discover the meaning behind the Youth Word of the Year 2024. In our interview segemnt we are talking to Nadia Paredes, who has lived in various countries and continents, making her an expert on adapting to new homes and navigating cultural shocks. Together with Sigrid, she will reminisce about some of her experiences and share insights into her work as an art therapist. Additionally, we will delve into topics such as migration, cultural resilience and following instructions.

Week 43: The Culture Mastery and The fish who cannot see Water

Week 43: The Culture Mastery and The fish who cannot see Water

28m 38s

In this episode, we sit down with Christian Höferle, a German living in the US and an intercultural trainer with his website The Culture Mastery. He shares some of his personal stories and the stereotypes he has encountered as a German abroad, while simultaneously shedding light on what truly defines being German. In this context we’ll also explore how your own culture often only reveals itself when you find yourself surrounded by different perspectives and experiences. In our "Ask a German" segment, Christian will provide valuable tips on how to become a true German Freund. Additionally, we’ll share some creative...

Week 42: New Federal Participation Act, Propaganda Comedy and German Friends

Week 42: New Federal Participation Act, Propaganda Comedy and German Friends

30m 25s

In today’s episode, we welcome comedian Chris Doering, a German who is trying to decipher the bridge between non Germans and Germans in his comedy shows. With a Latina partner by his side, Chris often draws from his own life to explore common stereotypes and cultural shocks. Join us as we dive into what it truly means to be a German, discuss how to befriend one, and mabye even how to navigate the complexities of finding love in Germany. In this episode we will also reflect on this year’s Oktoberfest and recap other notable events from the week.

Week 41: Digitized Registratgion, Baby in Berlin and The Secret of German Homes

Week 41: Digitized Registratgion, Baby in Berlin and The Secret of German Homes

22m 52s

Expecting a Baby or know someone who is? Join us in this episode as we explore everything you need to know about welcoming a new life in Germany. In our culture segment, Sigrid will share essential dos and don'ts for navigating parenthood in Germany and later on, we’ll sit down with maternity concierge Elodie, who will provide insights on the journey of having a baby in Germany, covering everything from finding a midwife and understanding when to register for one, to the available parental benefits. Additionally, we’ll dive into some of the week’s news highlights, including the findings from The...