All episodes

Week 37: The Role of Foreign Workers in Germany, Oktoberfest, Belly Dancing

Week 37: The Role of Foreign Workers in Germany, Oktoberfest, Belly Dancing

24m 3s

The Darvish speaks the universal language of dance, specifically Belly dance, with the mission to unite diverse cultures through movement. In this episode he reflects on his journey with "Queens Against Borders," and shares his experiences teaching Germans how to embrace the rhythm and passion of dance. As the Oktoberfest is about to start soon, we take you on a little history tour and uncover the origins of this annual folk festival. Additionally, in this week's "Ask a German" segment, we will explore why Germany always seems so quiet - especially after 10PM.

Week 36: New regulations in September, Goethe and Schiller, Culture Shocks

Week 36: New regulations in September, Goethe and Schiller, Culture Shocks

32m 30s

Today with us is Chiponda Chimbelu from Deutsche Welle. He is a news producer, editor, and member of editorial board and is currently living in Berlin. He will tell us a little bit more about his experiences in the city and share his thoughts on why Berlin might just be the most welcoming place in Germany, as long as you approach it with the right attitude. We’ll also dive into our news segment, summarizing the latest updates and happenings for September and explore some of the works of Germany's most famous "Dichter und Denker" (poets and thinkers). In our "Ask...

Week 35: New Naturalization Law, Made in Germany and Integration

Week 35: New Naturalization Law, Made in Germany and Integration

16m 38s

This week, we’re diving deep into one of the biggest changes for immigrants in Germany— the new naturalization law in effect since June 2024. What’s changing, and what does it mean for those on the path to citizenship? To break it all down, we’re joined by Fabian Graske, Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Migrando Attorneys, a firm specializing in helping individuals navigate the naturalization process. We’ll also discuss the challenges posed by overwhelmed immigration offices, explore what newcomers should consider for smoother integration, and share practical tips for making the journey to citizenship as seamless as possible. Plus, we take...

Week 34: Migration, German Words, Bureaucrazy

Week 34: Migration, German Words, Bureaucrazy

30m 48s

Today’s episode is all about Migration, not just in terms of people, but also the journey of words. Let’s dive into some of the most well-known German words that have made their way into global discourse. Curious about how coconuts and avocados can become friends? Hear the answer from our special guest, Ana Alvarez, founder of Migrapreneuer. She’ll provide valuable insights into migration, particularly in Germany, and share some tips on how to crack the Germans.

Week 33: New Skilled Immigration Act, Tagesschau, Mitte Daily, Abendbrot

Week 33: New Skilled Immigration Act, Tagesschau, Mitte Daily, Abendbrot

27m 38s

Want to know the hottest spots and hidden gems in Berlin Mitte? Check out the work of Dima Samarin. He has been living in the city for around 7 years and has his own media outlet called Mitte Daily. Today we are talking with Dima about how Berlin is ever changing and what qualifies you as a Berliner. In this episode we will also take a closer look at Germanys new Skilled Immigration Act and what makes the Tagesschau so special. In „Ask a German“ we will talk about what’s up with „Abendbrot.“

Week 32: New Döner standards, Feeling Urlaubsreif, Grumpy old Germans

Week 32: New Döner standards, Feeling Urlaubsreif, Grumpy old Germans

30m 1s

This week’s guest is Canadian Jenna Davis. She’s been living in Germany for about ten years and shares her experiences so far. She has her webpages Life in Düsseldorf and Life in Germany and tells us a little more about the story behind them. Now also being a mother, she offers valuable tips for raising children in Germany, discussing the available benefits and how to navigate everything from the Kita System up to packing a Schultüte. Besides that we are also diving into the new Döner standards disclaimed by the UDOFED and what Germans mean, when they are „urlaubsreif.“

Week 31: Naturalizing Citizens, Work Ethic, Talking about Ausbildung

Week 31: Naturalizing Citizens, Work Ethic, Talking about Ausbildung

22m 28s

In today’s episode of Plus Forty Nine we are talking with Anastasia, who has been living in Berlin for almost eight years now. We’ll discuss her journey of learning the German language, her Ausbildung or apprenticeship in hospitality, and how the concept of "Welpenschutz" has been a huge benefit for her.