Germany and Me

🐶 Dreaming of getting a dog in Germany? Hold on a second! From puppy dreams to daily walks, unexpected expenses, German rules, and finding your dog-loving community — we’re exploring what having a dog in Germany is really like. Is it expensive? What rules do you need to follow? 🦮 All the answers are in this episode with our special guest! 🎧🎙️

Planting trees, mentoring girls in Uganda, baking cookies for charity 🍪 — how can your regular 9-to-5 make a difference? We’re talking ESG, Ehrenamt, and whether companies truly want to do good or just look good. Plus, discover a fun German perk: getting an extra day off when you move! 

Traditional clothes, drinks, atmosphere, little details — and everything that makes Oktoberfest such a unique experience. 🍻🇩🇪 We’re taking you back to the Oktoberfest we attended three years ago and sharing our memories, impressions and everything that surprised us. Tune in and experience Oktoberfest through the eyes of two expats who’ve actually been there! 

Germany vs. the US — what is it actually like to live between two worlds? In this episode, we go beyond the stereotypes and talk about the little everyday differences that can completely change how you see life — from finding an apartment and understanding taxes to healthcare, public transport, grocery shopping and making friends. Our guest has experienced both worlds firsthand, so we’re asking: W...

Lonely? Sad? Frustrated and lost? Well, we both know it all too well. Stop! We’re here to cheer you up and tell you how it was for us — and how we found our own ways to survive, adapt, and eventually feel at home. Tune in — we’re here, with you! ⚓❤️

Why is insurance such a big deal in Germany? 🇩🇪 Why do Germans seem to insure almost everything — and why do we, as expats, still have some doubts about it? In this episode, we explore Germany's insurance culture, discuss the policies we consider worth having and those we're not entirely convinced about, and share the pros, cons, and our personal perspective. 🎙️Tune in and learn some useful things...

Think Germany is just Berlin, Munich, and Neuschwanstein Castle? Think again!  In this episode, we're sharing some of our favorite hidden gems across Germany—from crystal-clear lakes and fairytale bridges to charming wine villages and breathtaking hiking spots. Whether you're planning a summer road trip or simply looking for inspiration, we've got you covered. Which hidden gem would you add to the...

We’re diving into the funniest, weirdest, and most common stereotypes about Eastern Europeans and Germans. Are Germans really obsessed with rules? Do Eastern Europeans really never smile? We're unpacking the stereotypes that follow us everywhere. Which ones are true, which are ridiculous, and what do they say about us?

Customer service in Germany: misunderstood or disappointing? We share our honest experiences—from everyday cafés to luxury stores in Frankfurt—and explore why customer service in Germany can feel so different. We'd love to hear your perspective. Join the conversation!

Have you been to Euro 2024? We have! It was an amazing experience, and we want to share our memories and emotions with you. But this episode is more than just the tournament — it’s about football culture in Germany, passionate fans, ticket lotteries, matchdays, and even an unexpected Kevin Trapp encounter. Tune in and listen/watch now!  

For some of us, staying fit feels like hard work. In Germany, being active often isn't a task at all — it's simply a way of life. From hiking and cycling to SUP, rowing, dogs, and campervan adventures, Germans seem to be constantly on the move. What's their secret? Tune in to discover why nature and movement might be Germany's favorite recipe for a healthy and active life.

Have you ever been to a German sauna? Were you shocked, confused… or maybe just curious? 😄 In this episode, we talk about German sauna culture, FKK, cultural differences, awkward moments, and everything you wanted to know — but were afraid to ask. Tune in and explore!

What does “WG” mean? Who lives in shared apartments in Germany? Is it expensive and easy to find? And why does it sometimes feel like a casting? We share our experience in this episode — tune in!

Street festival season is here! We talk about why this tradition is so special, what to expect, and who you should (and shouldn’t) go with. Plus, our own experiences — and why Germany is so much more than Oktoberfest!   

Is work the best way to integrate in Germany? We explore how joining a German company can help you learn the language, understand the culture, and feel part of society much faster.

Vacations, public holidays, job security, generational gaps, and the smooth transition into retirement ;) — we talk about all this and much more in episode 3. Tune in!

Denglisch? Yes, it’s a thing. Can you survive in Germany speaking only English? In which cities is it easy — and where is German still a must? We share our observations and experiences in this episode. 

Are you a good fit for a dual study program in Germany? Too old to start — or ready to grow? No money, but big ambitions? Let’s find out if it’s worth it. 

Stay tuned! 

A true story from Wiesbaden — and my reflections on love then and now.  

Bad haircut? Diamond teeth? Euro 2024 was priceless? Unexpected taxi rides? Find out all this and a bit more in the new episode of Germany and Me! P.S. Just imagine how much we, expats, could have saved if we always acted smart… Better not! :D

Are you scared of the TestDaF exam? Let’s break down what it’s really like, how to get ready, and what actually matters. Bonus: practical exam expressions you’ll definitely need.

An honest episode about renting in Germany, real apartment issues, and why legal insurance or tenant protection can be essential for tenants. P.S.: Thank you for being with me — my podcast is one year old, and I truly appreciate every single listener! 

You definitely know this great writer of the 20th century. You’ve heard of the films based on his novels, and you’ve probably read «All Quiet on the Western Front». Whether you have or not, tune in to this episode to discover why Erich Maria Remarque and his books mean so much to me.  

Discover Germany through my mother’s eyes!