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Explore every episode of the podcast Germany in Focus

Dive into the complete episode list for Germany in Focus. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.

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TitlePub. DateDuration
Germany's budget plans, Swift-mania and is Berlin the most expensive German city?12 Jul 202400:38:51

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In this episode, Rachel Loxton is joined by journalists Imogen Goodman and Paul Krantz. Our sound engineer is Rhys Edwards.

Here's the links to the stories we talk about:

Germany's budget plans: 

Taylor Swift comes to Germany:

Tenants' rights:

Berlin named Germany's most expensive city:

Summer in Germany:

 We hope you have a fabulous summer and see you in September!


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Underrated German tourist spots and can the €49 ticket survive?04 Jul 202400:34:21

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In this episode Rachel Loxton is joined by journalists Imogen Goodman and Sarah Magill. Our sound engineer is Rhys Edwards. Here are some links to the stories we talk about:

Germany's fraught political landscape and budget woes:

Future of the €49 ticket amid ailing rail infrastructure in Germany:

Confusion over whether people naturalising as German have to affirm Israel's right to exist:

Underrated German tourist spots:

July events across Germany:

 


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Berlin’s €29 travel pass relaunch and how attractive is Germany to foreign workers? 25 Apr 202400:37:56

Find out more about becoming a member of The Local here

In this episode Rachel Loxton is joined by journalists Aaron Burnett and Paul Krantz. Our sound engineer is Rhys Edwards. 

Here are some links to the stories we talk about:

The spy scandals gripping Germany and rocking the AfD:

Berlin's €29 ticket relaunch:

Getting a lawyer involved with your German naturalisation application:

Is Germany an attractive spot for foreign workers?


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Driving ban threats, Berlin tourist tips and will abortion become legal in Germany?19 Apr 202400:37:45

Germany in Focus is made possible by the support of subscribers to The Local - find out more here about becoming a member.

In this episode, Rachel Loxton is joined by journalists Imogen Goodman and Paul Krantz. Our sound engineer is Rhys Edwards. 

Here are some links to some of the stories we talk about:

Bavaria takes a stand against Germany's cannabis legalisation: 

Germany’s new self-determination law passed by parliament and the planned rule changes for double surnames: 

Commission urges German government to make abortion officially legal in first trimester:

Transport Minister threatens weekend driving bans, and the plans for new climate rules:



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Can Germany's trains run on time, Spargelzeit begins and how happy are Germans?04 Apr 202400:35:43

Germany in Focus is made possible by the support of subscribers to The Local - find out more here about becoming a member.

In this episode, Rachel Loxton is joined by journalists Aaron Burnett and Paul Krantz. Our sound engineer is Rhys Edwards. 

Here are some links to the stories we talk about:

German national football team's strip controversies:

Can German trains improve their punctuality:

Germany's Deutschlandticket offer for students:

Night trains:

Asparagus season begins in Germany: 

How happy are Germans?

Tax deadlines in 2024:

What are the 2024 deadlines to submit my tax return in Germany?


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Germany's citizenship test shake-up explained and the Holocaust-era film winning Oscars28 Mar 202400:36:45

Germany in Focus is made possible by the support of subscribers to The Local - find out more here about becoming a member.

In this episode, Rachel Loxton is joined by journalists Rachel Stern and Imogen Goodman. Our guest this week is historian and tour guide Jonny Whitlam. Our sound engineer is Rhys Edwards. 

Here are some links to the stories we talk about:

Germany's citizenship law passes final hurdle and why the citizenship test is being shaken up:

Changes residents should know in April: 

Cannabis possession becomes legal in Germany plus vocab:

Germany's culture of remembrance: 



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What makes Berlin's techno scene so unique and how will Germany vote in EU elections?21 Mar 202400:33:12

Germany in Focus is made possible by the support of subscribers to The Local - find out more here about becoming a member.

In this episode, Rachel Loxton is joined by journalists Aaron Burnett and Paul Krantz. Our sound engineer is Rhys Edwards. 

Here are some links to stories we talk about today:

Latest update on German citizenship law:

What the European elections mean for Germany: 

Why Berlin's techno scene has been given cultural icon status:

What does the future hold for skiing in Germany?

Easter in Germany: 



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Why a German town is taking on Tesla and will strikes ruin the Easter holidays?14 Mar 202400:32:18

Germany in Focus is made possible by the generous support of subscribers to The Local - find out more here about becoming a member.

In this episode, host Rachel Loxton is joined by panellists Imogen Goodman and Paul Krantz. Our sound engineer is Rhys Edwards. We are also joined by economist Friedhelm Pfeiffer, a senior researcher at the European Centre for Economic Research in Mannheim.

Here are some links to stories we talk about today:

Why a German city has launched a public light display for Ramadan:

What's going on with strikes in Germany and can we expect disruption over Easter?

Update on the dual citizenship law and why foreign nationals are protesting against Berlin’s slow bureaucracy.

The protests against US car company Tesla's expansion in Brandenburg:


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Germany's cannabis law explained, immigration rule changes and Berlinale backlash29 Feb 202400:36:29

Germany in Focus is made possible by the generous support of subscribers to The Local - find out more here about becoming a member.

In this episode, host Rachel Loxton is joined by panelists Imogen Goodman and Rachel Stern. Our sound engineer is Rhys Edwards. We are also joined by immigration lawyer Sven Hasse.

Here are links to some of the stories we talk about:

Germany's cannabis law approved in the Bundestag:

Berlin's film festival Berlinale accused of promoting anti-Semitism: 

Far-left militant on the run from police for decades arrested:

Changes in Germany in March including immigration rules:

Events in March across Germany:


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Germany’s invisible border and what’s the job outlook for foreign residents?22 Feb 202400:34:19

Germany in Focus made possible by the generous support of subscribers to The Local - find out more here about becoming a member.

Our sponsor for this episode is US tax specialist BrightTax.

In this episode, host Rachel Loxton is joined by panelists Paul Krantz and Rachel Stern. Our sound engineer is Rhys Edwards. We are also joined by career coach Kevin Kocher from Immigrant Spirit.

Here are links to some of the stories we talk about:

Berlin's ruling on illegal holiday lets and Airbnbs:

Germany's invisible borders between east and west:

The new WerteUnion right wing party and why its founder is controversial:

Why are people in Germany retiring later in life? 

What's the outlook for jobs in Germany, especially for foreign residents?


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Why Germany is getting 'war ready' and the growing citizenship application backlog15 Feb 202400:35:41

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In this episode, host Rachel Loxton is joined by panelists Aaron Burnett and Rachel Stern. Our sound engineer is Rhys Edwards. We are also joined by Berlin-based immigration lawyer Sven Hasse.

Here are links to some of the stories we talk about:

Carnival in Germany:

Why Germany is getting ready for the possibility of war:

Calls for a crackdown on SUVs:

Germany launches four day week trial project:

German citizenship application delays in Berlin (and beyond):


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Can you get a job in Germany without German and what's it like as a new parent?08 Feb 202400:32:34

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In this episode, host Rachel Loxton is joined by panelists Aaron Burnett and Imogen Goodman. Our sound engineer is Rhys Edwards.

Here are some links to the stories we talk about.

Paying taxes:

German traditions:

Can you get a job in Germany without speaking German?

Germany with a far-right government:

Having a child in Germany:

Retiring in Germany:

German citizenship laws:


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Cannabis clubs arrive and could Germany's dual citizenship law be reversed?27 Jun 202400:38:09

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In this episode Rachel Loxton is joined by journalists Imogen Goodman and Paul Krantz. We also hear from Matt Bristow, a volunteer with British in Germany. Our sound engineer is Rhys Edwards. Here are some links to the stories we talk about:

Cannabis clubs:

Proposals to improve rural transport:

Citizenship law changes:

Handling Germany's summer insects:


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What German habits do foreigners pick up and will the strikes ever end?01 Feb 202400:34:06

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In this episode, host Rachel Loxton is joined by panelists Aaron Burnett and Imogen Goodman. Our sound engineer is Rhys Edwards.

We talk about the new round of strikes causing travel chaos in Germany. 

We get into the big changes happening in February, including an update on the dual nationality law. 

We talk about the behaviour and habits you pick up as a foreigner in Germany, from stockpiling herbal tea to being more direct. 

We also hear about how The Local readers are becoming more German. 

If you have acquired a new habit since moving to Germany that you'd like us to read out on the podcast, please email germanyinfocus@thelocal.com

Lastly we talk about some of the events happening in Germany this February and our recommendations.



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Historic rail strike hits Germany and when should you apply for citizenship?25 Jan 202400:39:06

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In this episode, host Rachel Loxton is joined by panelists Aaron Burnett and Imogen Goodman. Our sound engineer is Rhys Edwards.

We get into the train strike, AfD protests and hear from migration experts on what the new citizenship law means for foreigners in Germany. We also answer your questions on citizenship. 

If you have any questions for a future podcast episode, ask them here: What questions should we answer on our podcast?

Here are the links to some of the stories we discuss:

Six day train strike underway in Germany: 

Germans protest against the AfD:

Germany's citizenship law passes in the Bundestag:


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Germany’s citizenship law reaches crucial stage and could the AfD be banned?19 Jan 202400:38:33

Join The Local with our podcast listener offer

In this episode, host Rachel Loxton is joined by panelists Rachel Stern and Imogen Goodman. Our sound engineer is Rhys Edwards.

If you have any questions for a future podcast episode, ask them here: What questions should we answer on our podcast?

Here are the links to some of the stories we discuss:

Germany's citizenship law goes to the Bundestag:

Germany's struggling economy: 

How worried should we be about the AfD?


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Strikes, protests and the far-right: The challenges facing Germany in 202412 Jan 202400:37:05

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In this episode, host Rachel Loxton is joined by panelists Rachel Stern and Imogen Goodman. Our sound engineer is Rhys Edwards.

Here are links to some of the stories we discuss:

Train strikes in Germany:

Farmers' protests across the country:

How will the 2024 budget decisions affect you?

The drama facing the coalition government and political landscape in Germany:

The Local readers' predictions for 2024:



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The next steps for Germany’s dual citizenship law and what what will change in 2024?08 Dec 202300:39:19

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In this episode, host Rachel Loxton is joined by panelists Aaron Burnett and James Jackson. Our sound engineer is Rhys Edwards.

Here are links to some of the stories we discuss:

German citizenship debate held in the Bundestag:

What you should know about your rights if your flight or train is delayed or cancelled in Germany:

German students’ performance on subjects like maths and reading falls significantly:

Germany's budget crisis:

What is Weihnachtsgeld and how do you get it?

What we can expect from 2024:



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Christmas markets in Germany and how did things get so bad at Stuttgart immigration office?01 Dec 202300:39:38

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In this episode of the Germany in Focus podcast, host Rachel Loxton is joined by panelists Aaron Burnett and Imogen goodman. Our sound engineer is Rhys Edwards.

Here are links to some of the stories we discuss:

Christmas markets and Advent traditions in Germany:

Germany's growing budget crisis:

New cannabis draft law and timeline: 

Preparing for winter weather:

The fines drivers in Germany need to know about in winter

Problems at Stuttgart immigration office: 

Events happening in December:


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The 'worst' German cities for foreigners and what is the debt brake?24 Nov 202300:36:26

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In this episode of the Germany in Focus podcast, host Rachel Loxton is joined by panelists Imogen Goodman and James Jackson Our sound engineer is Rhys Edwards.

We talk about why Germany’s love affair with the fax machine may be coming to an end. 

Germany's Interior Ministry has been holding a conference on Islam this week - we look at why it's been controversial

After the dual citizenship law was put on pause, we give you the latest update and how it’s changing. 

The German government has been worried about billions of missing euros from the budget after a court ruling involving the debt brake - we explain what the debt brake is and how possible changes could affect you. Since we recorded, the German government has indicated it will take on more debt this year.

A new survey ranks Hamburg and Berlin as two of the worst cities for foreigners. Are they that bad?

Finally, we discuss some food culture shocks that The Local Germany readers have had and we share ours.


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Germany’s 'unfair' family reunification rules and most surprising German taxes16 Nov 202300:37:32

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In the latest episode of the Germany in Focus podcast, host Rachel Loxton is joined by panelists Rachel Stern and Aaron Burnett. Our sound engineer is Rhys Edwards.

We chat about American football's popularity in Germany and Rachel Loxton's trip to Frankfurt to see an NFL game. 

We get into the latest strikes in Germany and how they might affect you. 

We talk about how long Germans typically live and why life expectancy is falling. 

After a group of hikers were questioned by police, we discuss border checks in Germany and heightened tensions following the outbreak of the Middle East war. 

Since we recorded our podcast, it emerged that the opposition Christian Democrats have a submitted a bill for discussion that would see foreigners lose their citizenship rights if they are found to be anti-Semitic. 

Under Germany’s new immigration law, family reunification rules are being eased - but only for future skilled workers. We hear from a Local reader who wants to bring an ageing parent to Germany. 

Finally, we talk about the most surprising taxes in Germany. 


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Why is Germany's landmark dual citizenship law on hold?09 Nov 202300:37:38

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In this episode of the Germany in Focus podcast, host Rachel Loxton is joined by panelists Rachel Stern and Imogen Goodman. Our sound engineer is Rhys Edwards.

We start off by hearing about some Diwali events happening in Germany. 

We dig into why the debate in the Bundestag on Germany's new citizenship law has been delayed and why the topic of integration is being talked about again. We also hear from guest Hakan Demir, a Social Democrat MP working on the reforms. 

German states and Chancellor Olaf Scholz have drawn up measures to change Germany’s rules on asylum seekers. We chat about what the new rules are and why Germany is toughening its stance.

The future of the €49 ticket is safe - at least for now. We talk about the latest agreement on the travel pass. 

Finally, we’ll talk about things that have confused us about renting a flat in Germany and how we dealt with them.



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Why is Germany coming down hard on Palestine solidarity protests?03 Nov 202300:37:57

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In this episode of the Germany in Focus podcast, host Rachel Loxton is joined by panelists Imogen Goodman and Aaron Burnett. Our sound engineer is Rhys Edwards.

We talk about what to expect from energy costs this winter in Germany and what’s happening with inflation. 

We get into why controversial German politician Sahra Wagenknecht is starting her own political party and how it could shake up politics.

After the terror attacks by Hamas on Israel and the subsequent bombardment of the Gaza strip by Israeli forces, we talk about the German reaction and hear the views of German freelance journalist Hanno Hauenstein who has reported on what’s been unfolding on the ground in Germany.

Since we recorded this episode, the German government has issued a ban on Hamas activities and organisations linked to the group.

Finally, we talk about some things to do in Germany to brighten up this November. 


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Countdown to citizenship law change, Euro fever and can the German coalition survive?20 Jun 202400:32:10

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In this episode Rachel Loxton is joined by journalists Imogen Goodman and Sarah Magill. Our sound engineer is Rhys Edwards. Here are some links to the stories we talk about:

Euro 2024 fever: 

German coalition government trouble: 

Changes to the postal system:

German citizenship to come into force next week:


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Will Germany's new immigration law really make life easier for foreigners?12 Oct 202300:41:57

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In this episode, host Rachel Loxton is joined by The Local Germany journalists Imogen Goodman and Aaron Burnett. Our sound engineer is Rhys Edwards.

We hear some analysis from political commentator Brian Melican on the state elections in Hesse and Bavaria. 

We hear from Berlin-based immigration lawyer Sven Hasse who talks about what we can expect from the German government's skilled worker immigration law reforms. We then move onto a discussion about it in the studio.

The Germany in Focus team are taking a two week break from the podcast and will return in the first week of November. Make sure to hit follow wherever you get your podcasts so you get updates on our latest episodes.


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What's at stake in Bavaria's election and what attracts so many people to Berlin?05 Oct 202300:37:53

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In this episode, host Rachel Loxton is joined by The Local Germany journalists Imogen Goodman and Aaron Burnett. Our sound engineer is Rhys Edwards.

We talk about the funding row threatening the future of the €49 transport ticket.

With the Bavarian state elections coming up on October 8th, we profile the southern state and explain the politics. 

The Euros are coming to Germany next year so we talk about how to get tickets. 

Why are so many people attracted to come to Berlin both in the past and present? We hear from author John Kampfner who’s written a book about the German capital called In Search of Berlin: The Story of a Reinvented City.

Lastly, we talk about some false friends that German and English speakers find tricky.


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How Germany remains divided 33 years after reunification29 Sep 202300:32:27

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In this episode, host Rachel Loxton is joined by The Local Germany journalists Rachel Stern and Sarah Magill. Our sound engineer is Rhys Edwards.

We start by talking about our highlights from the first year of Germany in Focus. We launched the podcast one year ago. Thank you to all our listeners who have joined us on this journey!

We get into how German politicians are trying to solve the issue of a lack of affordable housing to buy and rent. 

A new ranking gives us an idea of where German universities stand globally so we talk about that and what it’s like to study in Germany as an international student.

Two German states - Bavaria and Hesse - are going to the polls soon. In this episode we profile the state of Hesse where Frankfurt is and what we can expect from the election. 

Germany will mark 33 years of reunification on October 3rd. But what divisions still remain? We talk about a new study and hear from Katharina Ponschab, an assistant researcher at the Stiftung Berliner Mauer. Here is the link to the East Side Gallery exhibition that Katharina talks about during the interview. 

Lastly, we talk about some events on Tag der Deutschen Einheit (Day of German Unity), and in October. Here's a link to the pub quiz and panel discussion that Sarah talks about.


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Germany embraces night trains and why the chancellor wants you to become German21 Sep 202300:36:02

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In the latest episode of our Germany in Focus podcast, host Rachel Loxton is joined by panelists Rachel Stern and Imogen Goodman. Our sound engineer is Rhys Edwards.

We start off by talking about a new night train service between Berlin and Paris and some more train news. 

As we are going into autumn, we discuss what the advice is for getting another Covid vaccination.

Chancellor Olaf Scholz is encouraging people to apply to become German - we look into why and talk about the government’s plans to become more immigrant and digital friendly.

We’ll hear the second part of our interview with beer expert Christina Schönberger, a brewing engineer at BarthHaas, who tells us how beer habits are changing and shares her German beer recommendations.

Choosing health insurance can be really tricky, so we’ll dig into a reader question on whether private or public health insurance in Germany is best.

Lastly we’ll talk about what we’re looking forward to this autumn.


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Why Germany is cutting access to Elterngeld and how important is beer to Germans?14 Sep 202300:34:45

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On the latest episode of our Germany in Focus podcast, host Rachel Loxton is joined by panelists Rachel Stern and Sarah Magill. Our sound engineer is Rhys Edwards.

We start off by taking about a new service for registering your car online in Germany, and Sarah tells us why it's a bureaucratic nightmare.

We talk about why the German government is planning to cut access for higher earners to a parental leave allowance called Elterngeld.

With the skilled immigration law reform set to come into force in Germany, we’ll be discussing the first changes which mainly involve the EU Blue Card. 

Oktoberfest starts on Saturday - we talk about how important this festival is and hear from Christina Schönberger, a Brewing engineer at BarthHaas, on German beer culture and history. 

Finally, we share some regional delicacies from around Germany that you should try.


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Should foreigners in Germany make more of an effort to speak German?07 Sep 202300:38:28

You can sign up to become a member of The Local Germany here.

In the first epsiode of the new season of our Germany in Focus podcast, host Rachel Loxton is joined by panelists Imogen Goodman and Aaron Burnett. Our sound engineer is Rhys Edwards.

We start off by recapping on the weirdest story of the summer involving escaped wildlife in Berlin. 

We talk about the developments on immigration and citizenship laws.

We get into why the German Chancellor is posting pictures of himself in an eye patch, and discuss why a Bavarian deputy state premier is under fire. 

The German government is making it easier for people to change their legal gender. We explain what the changes are, and hear from Kalle Hümpfner, a spokesperson from the Bundesverband Trans advocacy group. 

Lastly, are foreigners 'arrogant' if they don’t speak German in Germany? We get into this controversial topic and hear what readers of The Local have said about it.

READ ALSO: Is it 'arrogant' to speak in Germany and not learn German?


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German summer traditions explained and what does the AfD vote win mean for Germany?29 Jun 202300:35:46

In the last episode of the season of our Germany in Focus podcast, host Rachel Loxton is joined by panelists Rachel Stern and Aaron Burnett. Our sound engineer is Rhys Edwards.

We start off by having a chat about German summer traditions.

We then discuss a few changes happening in July in Germany that you should get familiar with, as well as give an overview of where the dual citizenship and immigration reforms are at.

We get into how Germany plans to move away from gas and oil heating and why it’s controversial. 

The far-right party Alternative for Germany or AfD won a district election and is climbing in recent polls - we do a deep dive in the studio about what this could mean for Germany and foreign residents. 

Lastly, we get into some events happening in Germany this summer. 



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How Brexit has hit Brits in Germany and immigration changes23 Jun 202300:38:13

In the latest episode of our Germany in Focus podcast, host Rachel Loxton is joined by panelists Imogen Goodman and Rachel Stern. Our sound engineer is Rhys Edwards.

We talk about Germany's plans to bring back getting sick notes over the phone from the doctor, plus we get into the culture of taking time off when you're ill. 

With the immigration reform being voted on by MPs in the Bundestag this week, we talk about the latest changes that could be good news for future job seekers. After recording we heard the law is being voted on in the Bundestag on Friday June 23rd so we will add or update stories in the show notes then. Please also note that in this episode, we said the minimum German language requirements for applying for the Chancenkarte were A2, reduced from B1. The minimum requirements are in fact A1 and have been reduced from A2.

Paying tax is something we all gotta do. We discuss what you need to know about taxes in Germany in 2023 and some of the deductions you should try for. 

What's the effect of Brexit been on Brits living in Germany or those who want to come here? We talk about some of the issues and hear from a couple who moved from London to Berlin at the end of last year. 

Lastly, we talk about some alternative summer activities to do in Germany if you’re looking for inspiration on how to spend your days off - or your holidays here.


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Why Germany wants a cannabis 'revolution' and citizenship vs permanent residency15 Jun 202300:38:26

In the latest episode of our Germany in Focus podcast, host Rachel Loxton is joined by panelists Imogen Goodman and Aaron Burnett. Our sound engineer is Rhys Edwards.

We talk about a NATO drill happening in Germany and how it will affect people. 

We get into why Germany's Health Minister is putting together a heatwave plan and how the climate crisis is affecting Germany.

Is it best to go for German citizenship if you're eligible or does permanent residency make the cut? We discuss what you need to know so you can make a decision. 

With cannabis set to be legalised in Germany if the government gets its way - we talk about how the pilot project to sell weed in shops will work as part of 'model regions' and we hear from German SPD MP Carmen Wegge on why the government wants to legalise the drug and when it could happen.

Finally, we talk about why a museum in Baden-Württemberg may attract Baywatch fans, and we discuss our favourite quirky museums in Germany. 


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The myth of German efficiency and Germany's most overlooked state08 Jun 202300:38:25

In the latest episode of our Germany in Focus podcast, host Rachel Loxton is joined by panelists Sarah Magill andAaron Burnett. Our sound engineer is Rhys Edwards.

This week we talk about allegations of sexual misconduct involving the band Rammstein. 

Pride month has started so we talk about the history of LGBTQ rights in Germany and where to celebrate CSD.

We talk about a new partnership between Germany and Brazil to encourage more skilled immigration and profile the Brazilian community in Germany. 

We dig into train delays, the myth of German efficiency and hear from historian and author of The Shortest History of Germany, James Hawes. 

Lastly, Sarah Magill tells us why everyone should be checking out the German state of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, which is often overlooked as a tourist spot.


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German football culture explained and what to expect at the EU elections 06 Jun 202400:39:16

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In this episode Rachel Loxton is joined by journalists Aaron Burnett and Paul Krantz. We are also joined by Kit Holden. Our sound engineer is Rhys Edwards. Here are some links to the stories we talk about:

European election latest: 

Floods in Germany: 

German citizenship:

Euro 2024 coming up in Germany:

Summer German drinks: 


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Residency permit backlogs and can foreigners in Germany ever be seen as German?01 Jun 202300:34:09

In the latest episode of our Germany in Focus podcast, host Rachel Loxton is joined by panelists Rachel Sternand Imogen Goodman. Our sound engineer is Rhys Edwards.

This week we talk about the German love of visiting lakes in summer. 

We discuss a new European night train service that’s just launched.

The number of German citizenship applications has increased significantly recently - we talk about why, and we get into residency permit backlogs and the effect this is having. 

We discuss a recent survey on how people with a migration background in Germany often have to deal with discrimination in their daily life.

We then hear from communications specialist and journalist Shelley Pascual on why the question ‘where are you from’ needs to be re-thought - and her concerns over whether foreigners and people with a migrant background in Germany can ever be seen as German.

Listen to the end when we talk about some events happening across Germany this June.

 


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What’s going on with Germany’s new dual citizenship law?25 May 202300:38:34

In the latest episode of our Germany in Focus podcast, host Rachel Loxton is joined by panelists Aaron Burnett and Imogen Goodman. Our sound engineer is Rhys Edwards.

We discuss:

A culture pass birthday present for 18-year-olds in Germany.

The thorny nature of neighbour disputes and why smoking on your balcony could land you in court in Germany's (or in someone's bad books).

Can you get in trouble for smoking on your balcony in Germany?

The latest draft of the German citizenship reform is being finalised by the government. We dig deep into it, explore why there’s been a delay in the process, and hear from immigration lawyer Sven Hasse on what you should know if you’re applying for citizenship in Germany.

Lastly, we talk about our favourite summer getaways in Germany for a day trip or weekend getaway. 


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How bad is the housing situation in Germany?18 May 202300:39:36

In the latest episode of our Germany in Focus podcast, host Rachel Loxton is joined by panelists Aaron Burnett and Rachel Stern. Our sound engineer is Rhys Edwards.

We discuss|:

Hot weather coming up, public holidays and why June is a great month in Germany.

What's going on with German transport strikes?

The results of Bremen's city-state elections mean, and why we should all visit Bremen.

How bad is the housing situation in Germany? We also hear from real estate expert Thomas Beyerle and Kathleen Parker from Red Tape Translation.

German words with funny literal meanings.



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Is Germany heading towards a four-day work week and how will cannabis clubs work?11 May 202300:40:56

In this episode host Rachel Loxton is joined by The Local Germany journalists Imogen Goodman and Aaron Burnett. Our sound engineer is Rhys Edwards.

We start off by talking about supermarkets in Bavaria embracing small talk to help combat loneliness.  

We break down the details about Germany’s planned cannabis clubs and what people will be allowed to do and not do. 

With the Eurovision Song Contest finals happening on May 13th, we talk about what the competition means to Germany. And if you'd like to listen to Germany's glam entry for Eurovision this year, check out this video. 

There may be some changes on the way regarding rules on how people can switch to private health insurance in Germany, so we have a chat about that.

A debate on a four-day working week in Germany has been getting more heated. We discuss the possibility of it becoming more common here, and talk to Martin Gaedt, entrepreneur, keynote speaker and author of 4 Tage Woche (4 Day Week), about his research and views. 

Lastly, we talk about the habits that foreigners sometimes pick up while living in Germany, that make us feel very German. 



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Why Germany wants people to move to the countryside and the €49 ticket's rocky start04 May 202300:39:16

In the first episode of our latest season, host Rachel Loxton is joined by The Local Germany journalists Imogen Goodman and Aaron Burnett. Our sound engineer is Rhys Edwards.

We start off by having a chat about a court case involving a company in Frankfurt who tried to get a rent reduction because they were bothered by their landlord sunbathing naked.

We talk about children’s medicine shortages in Germany.

We then get into what we can expect from transport strikes in Germany in May - and possible other disruption. 

The German government has been appealing for people to consider moving out of cities - we’ll talk about why, and share some views from The Local readers on what it’s like to live in the countryside and outskirts of German cities. 

The €49 ticket has launched, but there have been some teething problems. We’ll talk about how the first days are going and get some expert analysis on the ticket from Professor Christian Böttger, a rail expert from HTW Berlin.

We also talk about some journeys you can take with the ticket.

We finish off by discussing some events to check out in Germany this month. 


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The German asparagus obsession and is the €49 travel ticket worth buying?14 Apr 202300:38:18

In the latest episode, host Rachel Loxton is joined by The Local Germany journalists Imogen Goodman and Rachel Stern. Our sound engineer is Rhys Edwards.

We start off by having a chat about the German government's new watered-down cannabis legalisation plan. Since we recorded the podcast, more details have emerged which you can find in this story:

We talk about Germany's exit from nuclear power and the history behind it.

Next we dig into the German obsession with asparagus and talk about why it's public holiday season. 

We talk about Barack Obama’s upcoming visit to Germany and his special relationship with the country (and former Chancellor Angela Merkel).

With Germany's €49 monthly public transport ticket on the way, we get into who should buy it and why it makes sense for some people to avoid it. We also discuss some of the regional discounted offers.

Lastly we finish off by chatting about a few life hacks to help you feel like a local in Germany. 


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Bonus episode: Why Germany is overhauling immigration laws11 Apr 202300:14:22

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In the second part of our episode on immigration law reforms, host Rachel Loxton talks to Jan Dannenbring, the head of the department of labour law at the German Confederation for Skilled Crafts, and Green member of the Bundestag, Misbah Khan, who is a rapporteur on the law changes. 


Our guests discuss the skilled worker shortage, how Germany could attract more talent from abroad and when the law changes could come into force. 


Our sound engineer is Rhys Edwards.


Read more about the immigration law reforms here:


 


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What is Germany's planned points-based visa and how do Germans mark Easter?06 Apr 202300:41:15

In the latest episode, host Rachel Loxton is joined by The Local Germany journalists Imogen Goodman and Aaron Burnett.

We start off by talking about some German Easter traditions, from egg painting to bonfires. 

We talk about the possibility of strikes over the long weekend, other disruption to travel and what we can expect after Easter from strikes

We discuss how Berlin could be getting its first conservative mayor in 20 years.

We talk about the significance of a Syrian man who came to Germany as a refugee and has now been elected as mayor in a village in Baden-Württemberg.

The German cabinet has approved a reform of immigration laws - we look at the planned future points system for a visa.

We hear from a migration law expert Jan Dannenbring from the German Confederation for Skilled Crafts (ZDH) and from Green member of the Bundestag, Misbah Khan, who is a rapporteur on the immigration law reforms. 

We end the pod with a chat about some events happening across Germany in April.

 


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How Germany is (and isn't) changing, royal bonds and do Germans make small talk?31 Mar 202300:41:02

In the latest episode, host Rachel Loxton is joined by The Local Germany journalists Sarah Magill and Aaron Burnett.

We start off by talking about some important changes happening in Germany in April, including updates on the €49 ticket and why people will likely see more money leftover in their wage slip after tax.

With Britain's King Charles III making his first foreign visit as monarch to Germany, we discuss the significance of it, German royal connections and the history of the German royal family and where they are now.

As many of our listeners and readers have come to German to study, we focus on what that means when thinking about applying for German citizenship. 

The coalition government has been going through an internal crisis - we explain what’s going on behind closed doors. 

Does small talk really exist in Germany? We hear from German etiquette expert Nandine Meyden to find out.

Finally we talk about some of the cultural things that are starting to change in Germany - and some that will probably never change. 


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Is Germany really one of the hardest countries to start a new life in?23 Mar 202300:40:48

In the latest episode, host Rachel Loxton is joined by The Local Germany journalists Rachel Stern and Aaron Burnett.

We start off by discussing what a 'megastrike' in Germany could look like. Since we recorded the podcast, unions have announced a nationwide transport strike on Monday March 27th. 

We also talk about whether people can get a paid day off if they can't get to work or find childcare due to industrial action. 

Next we get into about rent developments in Germany’s biggest cities; where rents are rising fastest and where renting is most expensive. 

If you’re not familiar with Schlager music, don’t worry! We take a deep dive into the genre and talk about why Schlager legend Helene Fischer has been in the German news. 

The German Bundestag - one of the largest parliaments in the world - is going to get smaller. We try to explain why and what it all means. 

A survey found that Germany is one of the most difficult places for foreigners to get started in. We’ll talk about that and hear from Kathleen Parker of Red Tape Translation, which helps immigrants in Germany with admin and bureaucracy. 

Lastly, we share some tips about how to get on with your neighbours in Germany.


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German cities overwhelmed with citizenship applications and outrage over Nazi hate speech30 May 202400:33:29

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In this episode Rachel Loxton is joined by journalists Imogen Goodman and Paul Krantz. Our sound engineer is Rhys Edwards. Here are some links to the stories we talk about:

Racist video from Sylt goes viral and sparks backlash:

Emmanuel Macron's German language journey:

New jobseekers' visa launches:

German cities struggle with weight of citizenship applications:

Events in June:



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Berlin’s topless swimming row, strike season and German tipping culture16 Mar 202300:42:03

In the latest episode, host Rachel Loxton is joined by The Local Germany journalists Imogen Goodman and Aaron Burnett.

We start off by talking about gun laws in Germany after a shooting in Hamburg. 

We talk about why anyone - regardless of their gender - can now swim topless in Berlin's swimming pools, and we get into German nudity culture. 

With the German citizenship reform set to be debated in parliament soon, we talk about the proposed changes to the draft law so far. 

With widespread strikes happening across Germany at the moment - we discuss why there is so much industrial action happening right now, and if any resolutions have been found. 

And if you’re confused about tipping culture in Germany - don’t worry we get some clarity on the dos and don’ts from German etiquette expert, Nandine Meyden.

Lastly, we’ll talk about the German words that strike fear into our hearts. 


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Who’s against Germany’s dual citizenship plans - and why?02 Mar 202300:37:12

In the latest episode, host Rachel Loxton is joined by The Local Germany journalists Imogen Goodman and Aaron Burnett.

We start off by talking about some key changes to know about this month in Germany, from youth travel tickets and train track upgrades to energy price caps.

Then we have a little chat about Germany's mild winter weather, and what it all means. 

With more strikes planned across the country, we talk about where is most affected and what you should look out for in the coming weeks.

Ash Wednesday saw Germany’s annual political roast. We do a bit of a deep dive on the Bavarian state leader, Markus Söder, and ask if he is ever likely to become a future German Chancellor candidate. 

German citizenship reform is in the works but not everyone is cheering it on. We talk about why some people are so against it, and what the government says. 

We also explain why people in Berlin could see major delays to citizenship applications this year. 

Finally, we talk about some cool events happening around Germany in March. 


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How Germany plans to ease immigration laws and why so many people fail German driving tests23 Feb 202300:34:00

In the latest episode, host Rachel Loxton is joined by The Local Germany editor Rachel Stern and journalist Sarah Magill as well as political analyst Jessica Berlin.

We start by talking about how Germany celebrated carnival this year and the significance of the culture across different regions. 

We move onto a story about the increasing number of people taking driving tests in Germany - and the proportion of people who fail. Sarah shares her experience of learning to drive in Germany and gives some tips. 

A new draft law on skilled immigration reforms has been released. We give you an update on that, including what it means for the EU Blue Card and international students. 

It’s a year since Russia launched a full scale invasion Ukraine. We talk about how Germany has changed since then and we’ll hear from political analyst Jessica Berlin to get her views on how Germany could step up support for Ukraine.

Finally, we share some of our best life hacks for making living in Germany that bit easier (and please share yours with us. 


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How bad will strikes get in Germany and should public officials have to speak English?16 Feb 202300:40:35

In the latest episode, host Rachel Loxton is joined by The Local Germany editor Rachel Stern and journalist Aaron Burnett, as well as jobs expert Chris Pyak and dating and relationships expert Sami Wunder. 

We kick things off by talking about the strikes hitting Germany and how they are affecting daily life, whether travel, post or childcare. 

Next we talk about the significance of the Currywurst as well as how much Germany's most expensive Currywurst will set you back and where you can find it.

After the capital Berlin voted in its elections re-run on Sunday, we talk about the winners and losers, what happens next and what it all means. 

Should public officials in Germany have to speak English? That’s what the Free Democrats want to see. We discuss why they think this should happen and the debate around it. 

Business coach Chris Pyak, who helps internationals get jobs in Germany and is the author of How to Win Jobs and Influence Germans, talks about the hurdles non-Germans face when trying to get into the German job market and what he thinks about the FDP proposals. 

Lastly we talk about dating (and marriage) in Germany, and Sami Wunder tells us why she was inspired to become a relationships and dating expert, and gives advice on dating in Germany. 


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