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An American moved to Germany after dreaming about it since he was 15. Just one year later, he's running for Munich's Migration Advisory Council. But building a life in Germany has been harder than he ever expected.Meet Ryan Frankel, an American originally from Connecticut who grew up in Massachusetts, studied German and international politics, and eventually made his dream of moving to Munich a reality.Despite speaking excellent German and holding a master's degree in international affairs, Ryan has struggled to find career opportunities, navigate German bureaucracy, and secure housing in one of Germany's most expensive cities.Now he's running for Munich's Migrationsbeirat (Migration Advisory Council) with Grüne Vielfalt München, hoping to make the city more welcoming and accessible to immigrants.In this episode of The Pod Abroad, we discuss the reality of moving from America to Germany, the 2026 U.S. midterm elections, why Ryan became interested in German politics, his remarkable journey learning German despite an auditory processing disorder, and why he believes Munich needs to change.We also get candid about loneliness, homesickness, the German job market, immigration office frustrations, and what it really takes to build a life abroad.💬 Would you get involved in local politics after living in a new country for just one year? Let us know in the comments!⏱️ CHAPTERS00:00 The Reality of Moving to Munich 04:45 American Politics, Trump & the 2026 Midterms 12:10 Growing Up in America & His Dream of Germany 32:15 Moving to Munich: Expectations vs. Reality 47:40 Running for Munich's Migration Advisory Council 🗳️ MUNICH MIGRATIONSBEIRAT ELECTIONMunich's Migration Advisory Council represents the interests of residents with migration backgrounds and advises the city on issues affecting immigrant communities.Ryan is running with Grüne Vielfalt München, List 8, in the November 22, 2026 election.For election information, eligibility and voting procedures, visit Munich's official website: https://stadt.muenchen.de/https://migrationsbeirat.muenchen.de/🌍 ABOUT THE POD ABROADHowdy und Servus, y’all :-) I’m Paulina — originally from Texas and living in Munich, Germany for nearly 10 years.The Pod Abroad is a long-form podcast about life abroad, cultural differences, identity, immigration, and building a life overseas through honest conversations with people from around the world.👉 New episodes every Tuesday.🎧 LISTEN & CONNECTSpotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/711j4OKApple Podcasts → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcastAll platforms → https://linktr.ee/thepodabroadInstagram → https://www.instagram.com/thepod.abroadTikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@thepodabroadSubstack → https://substack.com/@thepodabroadInquiries → [email protected]🎥 CREWVideo, Audio & Music → Tim ter HuurneDesign / Branding → Ali Khazanbeik

Munich's Migrationsbeirat election is on November 22, 2026, but what exactly is the Migration Advisory Council, who can vote, and why did only 3.1% of eligible voters participate in 2023?In this episode of The Pod Abroad, I'm joined by Shipra Singh, an Indian immigrant who has called Munich home for over 11 years and is now running for the city's Migrationsbeirat with Grüne Vielfalt München.We talk about Shipra's journey from India to Germany, her experiences building a life in Munich, and what inspired her to get involved in local politics.We also break down what the Migrationsbeirat actually does, how eligible international residents can vote, and why representation matters in a city as international as Munich.Shipra shares her personal experiences with discrimination in the workplace and her campaign priorities, from making German bureaucracy more accessible to supporting immigrant entrepreneurs and addressing racism.Finally, we explore how Indian politics continues to affect Indians living abroad, women's safety, and what it means to have a voice in a country you now call home.⏱️ CHAPTERS00:00 Why Your Vote Matters in Munich03:00 From India to Munich: Shipra's Story17:40 What Is the Migrationsbeirat & Who Can Vote?32:00 Why Shipra Is Running: Racism, Integration & Representation49:30 Indian Politics, Women's Safety & Life Abroad🗳️ MUNICH MIGRATIONSBEIRAT ELECTION 2026Election date: November 22, 2026Find out whether you're eligible to vote, how to register, and how postal voting works on the City of Munich's official website:https://stadt.muenchen.de/infos/migrationsbeiratswahlen.html📍 CONNECT WITH SHIPRAInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/shipra.singh.s/Yoga: https://giardino-yoga.com/shipra-singh/💬 Have you heard of Munich's Migrationsbeirat before? Let us know in the comments!🌍 ABOUT THE POD ABROADHowdy und Servus, y’all :-) I’m Paulina — originally from Texas and living in Munich, Germany for 10 years.The Pod Abroad is a long-form podcast about life abroad, cultural differences, identity, immigration, and building a life overseas through honest conversations with people from around the world.👉 New episodes every Tuesday.🎧 LISTEN & CONNECTSpotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/711j4OKApple Podcasts → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcastAll platforms → https://linktr.ee/thepodabroadInstagram → https://www.instagram.com/thepod.abroadTikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@thepodabroadSubstack → https://substack.com/@thepodabroadInquiries → [email protected]🎥 CREWVideo, Audio & Music → Tim ter HuurneDesign / Branding → Ali KhazanbeikSubscribe for more conversations about life abroad, culture, and the immigrant experience.#Munich #Migrationsbeirat #LivingInGermany #ThePodAbroad #Immigration

Grieving while living abroad is one of the hardest parts of living abroad. When you lose a loved one back home, how do you cope with grief, distance, and the guilt of being across the world?In this episode of The Pod Abroad, I'm sharing something I never wanted to have to talk about: the passing of my beloved grandmother, my Guela, at 94 years old.Living in Germany while my family is in Texas has taught me a lot about distance, but losing someone I love has brought an entirely different layer to it. I want to tell you about the remarkable woman my grandmother was, from her life as a Mexican immigrant in the United States to the childhood memories I'll cherish forever. I also reflect on the complicated emotions of grieving someone who lived a long, beautiful life, the experience of watching a loved one live with dementia, and the guilt that can come with building a life so far from family.This episode is about love, loss, family, and learning to give ourselves permission to grieve, even when life keeps moving around us.If you've ever lost someone while living abroad, struggled with being far from your family, or experienced anticipatory grief, I hope this conversation makes you feel a little less alone. ❤️Chapters:00:00 - intro07:35 – losing someone while living abroad12:00 – remembering my grandmother19:00 – her extraordinary life and legacy28:00 – dementia and grieving before goodbye34:19 – learning to live with griefThank you for listening and for allowing me to share a little piece of my Guela with you. ❤️🌍 ABOUT THE POD ABROADHowdy und Servus, y’all :-) I’m Paulina — originally from Texas and living in Munich, Germany for nearly 10 years.The Pod Abroad is a long-form podcast about life abroad, cultural differences, identity, immigration, and building a life overseas through honest conversations with people from around the world.👉 New episodes every Tuesday.🎧 LISTEN & CONNECTSpotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/711j4OKApple Podcasts → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcastAll platforms → https://linktr.ee/thepodabroadInstagram → https://www.instagram.com/thepod.abroadTikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@thepodabroadSubstack → https://substack.com/@thepodabroadInquiries → [email protected]🎥 CREWVideo, Audio & Music → Tim ter HuurneDesign / Branding → Ali Khazanbeik

After 2 years living in Munich, Germany, why is an American moving back to the USA? Bailey shares the reality of life in Germany vs. America, German culture shocks, friendships abroad, and saying goodbye.My friend Bailey, a Southern girl from the U.S., is moving back to Nashville, Tennessee, after spending two years in Munich with her husband. When she first arrived in Germany, she struggled with cultural differences, German directness, and finding her community. Now that Munich finally feels like home, it's time to leave.In this episode of The Pod Abroad, we get into the good, the bad, and the downright frustrating parts of living in Germany as an American. We compare everyday life in Munich and Nashville, Southern hospitality vs. German directness, grocery shopping, public transportation, healthcare, friendships, and quality of life.Bailey also opens up about returning to her career as a nurse in the U.S., the friendships that changed while she was abroad, and what two years overseas taught her about belonging and the meaning of home.⏱️ CHAPTERS00:00 Germans Can Be Cold: The Reality of Living Abroad00:35 Why Bailey Is Leaving Germany03:15 The Bittersweet Reality of Saying Goodbye09:40 Germany: Expectations vs. Reality13:30 Southern Hospitality vs. German Directness18:30 Everyday Life in Germany vs. America29:20 Finding Friends and Feeling at Home Abroad35:15 Moving Back to America and Returning to Nursing42:50 What Germany Taught Me: Memories and Lessons🌍 ABOUT THE POD ABROADHowdy und Servus, y’all :-) I’m Paulina — originally from Texas and living in Munich, Germany for 10 years.The Pod Abroad is a long-form podcast about life abroad, cultural differences, identity, immigration, and building a life overseas through honest conversations with people from around the world.👉 New episodes every Tuesday.🎧 LISTEN & CONNECTSpotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/711j4OKApple Podcasts → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcastAll platforms → https://linktr.ee/thepodabroadInstagram →   / thepod.abroad  TikTok →   / thepodabroad  Substack → https://substack.com/@thepodabroadInquiries → [email protected]🎥 CREWVideo, Audio & Music → Tim ter HuurneDesign / Branding → Ali Khazanbeik

Berlin Marathon 2026, first marathon training, and the reality of running 42.2 km! My mom takes over The Pod Abroad to ask me everything about long-distance running and what six months of training REALLY feels like.From running injuries and early morning long runs to runner's stomach (never trust a fart), fueling, recovery, and the sacrifices nobody sees, we're getting into the less glamorous side of preparing for my first BMW Berlin Marathon.Eleven years ago, I could barely run 2 km continuously. Now I'm preparing to run 42.2 km. So why do I keep running when sometimes it genuinely feels like sh*t?My mom MJ asks the questions every non-runner is probably thinking, and we get into some unexpected personal stories along the way, including the first time I told Tim I loved him at the finish line of a half marathon in Cape Town.Whether you're training for your first marathon, a seasoned runner, or just wondering why anyone would voluntarily run for four-plus hours, this episode is for you.🏃‍♀️ IN THIS EPISODEWhy I started running and how I ended up signing up for the Berlin MarathonThe reality of six months of marathon trainingRunning injuries, recovery, motivation and the sacrifices nobody seesRunner's stomach and other unfortunate long-run experiencesRunning in Texas vs. GermanyWhat running has taught me about my body and pushing my limitsCHAPTERS00:00 The Reality of Marathon Training02:30 From 2 KM to the Berlin Marathon10:15 Why Run 42.2 KM Voluntarily?14:45 Runner's Stomach & Training Struggles23:00 Running, Love & Marathon Motivation29:00 Berlin Marathon Prep & Race Strategy🌍 ABOUT THE POD ABROADHowdy und Servus, y’all :-) I’m Paulina — originally from Texas and living in Munich, Germany for 10 years.The Pod Abroad is a long-form podcast about life abroad, cultural differences, identity, immigration, and building a life overseas through honest conversations with people from around the world.👉 New episodes every Tuesday.🎧 LISTEN & CONNECTSpotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/711j4OKApple Podcasts → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcastAll platforms → https://linktr.ee/thepodabroadInstagram →   / thepod.abroad  TikTok →   / thepodabroad  Substack → https://substack.com/@thepodabroadInquiries → [email protected]🎥 CREWVideo, Audio & Music → Tim ter HuurneDesign / Branding → Ali Khazanbeik

Americans moving to Europe, living abroad, leaving the USA, moving from Texas to Germany and Spain, expat life, starting over abroad, and the reality of living far away from family.My mom and I both left Texas to move to Europe. I moved to Germany at 21, and she moved to Spain at 60. Here’s what two Americans learned about living abroad, starting over, and leaving family behind.Ten years ago, I left South Texas for what was supposed to be a two-year master’s degree in Germany. I never expected that Munich would become my permanent home, or that a decade later I would become a German citizen. My mom definitely never expected that she would eventually follow her own path to Europe too and start over in Alicante, Spain.Moving abroad and building a new life in Europe comes with its challenges. In this episode, we talk about what leaving Texas has given us, what it has cost our family, and the parts of living overseas that people don’t always talk about.We talk openly about being thousands of miles away when family members get sick, the guilt that comes with not being able to simply show up, watching parents and grandparents get older from another continent, and the frightening moments that make you question the distance.At the same time, living abroad has changed both of our lives in ways neither of us could have predicted. We’ve created communities, become more independent, found new definitions of home, and discovered that distance can sometimes make family relationships more intentional.In this episode, we talk about:• Why we both left Texas for Europe• Moving abroad at 21 vs. moving abroad at 60• Why my mom chose Alicante, Spain• What my mom really thought when I moved to Germany• Starting over later in life• The emotional cost of living far away from family• Missing major family moments while living overseas• Guilt, aging parents and grandparents, and scary phone calls from home• How our family stays close across Texas, Spain and Germany• The biggest differences between our lives in Europe and Texas• How moving abroad changed our ideas of home and belonging• What we’ve gained from leaving and what we’ve had to sacrificeWhether you’re an American living abroad, thinking about moving to Europe, considering starting over later in life, or wondering what happens to family relationships when people build lives in different countries, this is a very personal conversation about the reality of moving overseas.⏰ CHAPTERS:00:00 The Reality of Living Far From Family00:31 Why My Mom and I Both Left Texas for Europe12:40 Why My Mom Moved to Spain at 6021:30 The Hidden Cost of Living Abroad35:20 Moving to Europe at 21 vs. 6052:40 Building a New Life in Europe🌍 ABOUT THE POD ABROADHowdy und Servus, y’all :-) I’m Paulina — originally from Texas and living in Munich, Germany for nearly 10 years.The Pod Abroad is a long-form podcast about life abroad, cultural differences, identity, immigration, and building a life overseas through honest conversations with people from around the world.👉 New episodes every Tuesday.🎧 LISTEN & CONNECTSpotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/711j4OKApple Podcasts → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcastAll platforms → https://linktr.ee/thepodabroadInstagram →   / thepod.abroad  TikTok →   / thepodabroad  Substack → https://substack.com/@thepodabroadInquiries → [email protected]🎥 CREWVideo, Audio & Music → Tim ter HuurneDesign / Branding → Ali Khazanbeik

Training for my first Berlin Marathon has completely changed the way I think about running, distance, health, and what my body is capable of. In this episode, I’m sharing what six months of marathon training has taught me, plus the huge cultural differences I’ve noticed running in Munich, Germany vs Texas. I’ve been running for nearly a decade, but preparing for my first full marathon has been an entirely different experience. Long runs have taken over my weekends, injuries have come and gone, recovery has become non-negotiable, and distances that once seemed impossible somehow feel normal now. I also recently trained in Texas during August, which reminded me just how different running can be depending on where you live!! From extreme heat and car-dependent cities to safety, sidewalks, access to nature, and even how strangers interact with runners, training in Texas feels completely different from running along the Isar in Munich. In this episode, I talk about: • Training for my first Berlin Marathon • What six months of marathon training has taught me • Injuries, recovery and the strength training I should have done • How my perception of distance has completely changed • Running in Texas vs Munich, Germany • Safety as a woman running alone • Heat, walkability and access to running trails • Why running in Munich has made me appreciate living here even more • My personal “why” behind running a marathon Whether you’re training for your first marathon, thinking about running the Berlin Marathon, curious about running culture in Germany, or simply interested in the everyday differences between life in Germany and the United States, this episode is for you. ⏰ CHAPTERS: 00:00 Running in Texas vs Germany 04:37 Training for my first Berlin Marathon 13:40 Safety, heat & running culture in Texas 21:17 The cultural differences between runners 29:08 What marathon training has taught me 🌍 ABOUT THE POD ABROAD Howdy und Servus, y’all :-) I’m Paulina — originally from Texas and living in Munich, Germany for nearly 10 years. The Pod Abroad is a long-form podcast about life abroad, cultural differences, identity, immigration, and building a life overseas through honest conversations with people from around the world. 👉 New episodes every Tuesday. 🎧 LISTEN & CONNECT Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/711j4OK Apple Podcasts → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast All platforms → https://linktr.ee/thepodabroad Instagram → / thepod.abroad TikTok → / thepodabroad Substack → https://substack.com/@thepodabroad Inquiries → [email protected] 🎥 CREW Video, Audio & Music → Tim ter Huurne Design / Branding → Ali Khazanbeik

Oktoberfest 2026, Oktoberfest Munich, Munich Germany, Oktoberfest tips, Oktoberfest guide, Wiesn, beer tents, Munich travel, Bavaria, German culture, dirndl, lederhosen, Oktoberfest mistakesPlanning your first Oktoberfest 2026 in Munich? Want to skip tourist mistakes and experience Wiesn like a true local? 🍺 After 9 years in Germany, I’m teaming up with my friend Paloma—a real Münchner Kindl who grew up going to Oktoberfest—to bring you the ultimate insider Oktoberfest guide!EPISODE THROWBACK! From August 26th, 2025.From dirndl & lederhosen styling tips, to how to get into beer tents without a reservation, to the best Bavarian food and German beer you absolutely have to try, this is your all-in-one Oktoberfest 2025 playbook. We’re sharing entry hacks, safety tips, hidden gems like Oide Wiesn, and our craziest stories.Whether you’re planning Oktoberfest 2026, curious about Bavarian culture, or want to experience the festival like a local, this episode will help you make the most of your trip!👋 I’m Paulina, originally from Texas, now living in Munich, Germany. On The Pod Abroad, I share what it’s like navigating life between cultures with my international friends.---⏱️ Oktoberfest 2026 Guide Chapters0:00 – Intro: Texan abroad + Munich local2:00 – What is Oktoberfest?5:00 – Oktoberfest tents explained7:30 – When to go + how to get a seat12:00 – Money & drinks18:00 – What to bring 22:00 – What to wear:27:00 – Oktoberfest etiquette33:00 – Safety tips + hidden gems41:00 – Wild Oktoberfest stories55:00 – Beyond Oktoberfest: Munich tips1:08:00 – Outro & final tips 🎉🌍 ABOUT THE POD ABROADHowdy und Servus, y’all :-) I’m Paulina — originally from Texas and living in Munich, Germany for nearly 10 years.The Pod Abroad is a long-form podcast about life abroad, cultural differences, identity, immigration, and building a life overseas through honest conversations with people from around the world.👉 New episodes every Tuesday.🎧 LISTEN & CONNECTSpotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/711j4OKApple Podcasts → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcastAll platforms → https://linktr.ee/thepodabroadInstagram →   / thepod.abroad  TikTok →   / thepodabroad  Substack → https://substack.com/@thepodabroadInquiries → [email protected]🎥 CREWVideo, Audio & Music → Tim ter HuurneDesign / Branding → Ali Khazanbeik

Moving to Germany, life in Germany, American in Germany, Germany vs Texas & living abroad: I’m reacting to my 2016 YouTube videos after 10 years of living in Munich, Germany.In 2016, I was 21 years old, living in Texas, and preparing to move to Munich without ever having set foot in Germany. I didn’t know anyone there, didn't speak the language, and thought I was leaving the US for a two-year master’s degree. I never moved back.For this special 10-year anniversary episode of The Pod Abroad, I’m watching the YouTube videos I made before moving to Germany and during my first few months living here, and reacting to them with a decade of hindsight.First, I revisit my old “I’m Moving to Germany” video and hear 21-year-old me talk about moving abroad, learning German, studying at the Technical University of Munich, making videos, and everything I thought this new chapter of my life might become.Looking back at her became much more emotional than I expected. Ten years later, I’ve finished that master’s degree, built a life in Munich, learned (and still learning) German, made incredible friends, built a career, started this podcast, and am now about to officially become a German citizen. 🇩🇪Most of all, this episode is about looking back at the person I used to be and realizing that she might be incredibly proud of where I am today❤️CHAPTERS00:00 She Had No Idea…00:48 10 Years in Germany + German Citizenship03:47 Reacting to “I’m Moving to Germany”18:24 Reacting to “Germany vs Texas”22:01 What I Got VERY Wrong in 201629:38 What Has (and Hasn’t) Changed in Germany🌍 ABOUT THE POD ABROADHowdy und Servus, y’all :-) I’m Paulina — originally from Texas and living in Munich, Germany for nearly 10 years.The Pod Abroad is a long-form podcast about life abroad, cultural differences, identity, immigration, and building a life overseas through honest conversations with people from around the world.👉 New episodes every Tuesday.🎧 LISTEN & CONNECTSpotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/711j4OKApple Podcasts → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcastAll platforms → https://linktr.ee/thepodabroadInstagram → https://www.instagram.com/thepod.abroadTikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@thepodabroadSubstack → https://substack.com/@thepodabroadInquiries → [email protected]🎥 CREWVideo, Audio & Music → Tim ter HuurneDesign / Branding → Ali Khazanbeik

EPISODE THROWBACK! From April 1st, 2025.Moving to Germany as an American changed my life. From Germany culture shock to loneliness, expat life and starting over, here’s the reality of living in Germany and moving abroad alone.I left Texas for Germany alone at 21, knowing almost no one. I had never been to Germany before, barely spoke German, and originally planned to stay for only two years. Nearly a decade later, Germany is home.But moving abroad was not always the European dream I imagined.From navigating German bureaucracy and learning Munich’s unwritten social rules to getting hit by a car while cycling to my visa appointment, there were moments when I genuinely questioned what I was doing here. After the accident, standing alone with a destroyed bike and no family nearby, the reality of immigrant life hit me in a way it hadn’t before.In this episode, I tell the full story of how a girl from South Texas ended up building a life in Munich, including the culture shock, loneliness, friendships, travel, career opportunities, and strange little moments that shaped my relationship with Germany.I also talk about what happens after the excitement of moving to Germany wears off: missing family, rebuilding a community when friends leave, adapting to German culture and German directness, and learning that creating a life overseas takes much more than simply moving there.Nearly 10 years later, Germany is home. But getting here was anything but straightforward.*CHAPTERS*00:00 The moment reality hit00:32 Why I moved from Texas to Germany09:18 My first Germany culture shocks16:21 When the honeymoon phase ended23:45 The highs and lows of immigrant life33:11 German cultural differences I wasn't ready for36:40 The trip that changed how I saw travel🌍 ABOUT THE POD ABROADHowdy und Servus, y’all :-) I’m Paulina — originally from Texas and living in Munich, Germany for nearly 10 years.The Pod Abroad is a long-form podcast about life abroad, cultural differences, identity, immigration, and building a life overseas through honest conversations with people from around the world.👉 New episodes every Tuesday.🎧 LISTEN & CONNECTSpotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/711j4OKApple Podcasts → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcastAll platforms → https://linktr.ee/thepodabroadInstagram →   / thepod.abroad  TikTok →   / thepodabroad  Substack → https://substack.com/@thepodabroadInquiries → [email protected]🎥 CREWVideo, Audio & Music → Tim ter HuurneDesign / Branding → Ali Khazanbeik

Germany, living in Germany, American in Germany, German culture, Munich, cultural differences, expat life, German stereotypes, life abroad, immigration, German seniors, moving to Germany, Germany podcast, volunteering in Germany.Why does it sometimes feel like strangers in Germany are just waiting to tell you what you're doing wrong?After nearly 10 years of living in Germany, I've been yelled at and scolded by strangers more times than I can count. From crossing the street at the wrong time to apparently packing my groceries too slowly, some of these interactions have genuinely gotten to me over the years.In this solo episode of The Pod Abroad, I'm sharing some of those stories and how they slowly shaped the way I viewed German culture, particularly my perception of senior Germans.But there's another side to this story.Over the years, I've had encounters that challenged those assumptions completely. And since I started volunteering with seniors at a local community center in Munich, I've gotten to know some incredibly kind, funny, resilient and fascinating people who have made me question whether the version of Germany we experience through brief interactions with strangers tells us much about the people who actually live here at all.In this episode, I talk about:Getting yelled at and scolded by strangers in GermanyThe unwritten rules foreigners are somehow expected to knowWhy these interactions affected me more than I realizedThe assumptions I started making about German seniorsThe Bavarian Oma who completely surprised meWhy I decided to start volunteering with seniors in MunichThe people I've met through volunteeringHow actually getting to know Germans changed my perspectiveWhat living abroad has taught me about stereotypes, empathy and belongingIf you've ever lived in Germany, experienced German directness, been corrected by a stranger, or found yourself developing assumptions about a culture after living abroad, I think you'll relate to this one.And if you're German, I'd especially love to hear your perspective. Have you noticed this too? Is correcting strangers something you associate with German culture, or do you see it completely differently?⏱️ CHAPTERS00:00 The Oma I thought would yell at me00:40 Getting yelled at in Germany10:32 Experiences with German strangers23:17 I was stereotyping German seniors29:06 The Oma who changed my perspective29:51 Volunteering with seniors changed everything🌍 ABOUT THE POD ABROADHowdy und Servus, y’all :-) I’m Paulina — originally from Texas and living in Munich, Germany for nearly 10 years.The Pod Abroad is a long-form podcast about life abroad, cultural differences, identity, immigration, and building a life overseas through honest conversations with people from around the world.👉 New episodes every Tuesday.🎧 LISTEN & CONNECTSpotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/711j4OKApple Podcasts → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcastAll platforms → https://linktr.ee/thepodabroadInstagram →   / thepod.abroad  TikTok →   / thepodabroad  Substack → https://substack.com/@thepodabroadInquiries → [email protected]🎥 CREWVideo, Audio & Music → Tim ter HuurneDesign / Branding → Ali Khazanbeik

Culture shock, living abroad, adapting to life abroad, moving abroad, expat life, life in Germany, cultural differences, immigration, culture shock in Germany, adjusting to a new culture, identity abroad, expat struggles, Munich, Germany. What if the hardest part of moving abroad isn’t learning a new language or understanding a new culture, but slowly questioning yourself? In this episode of The Pod Abroad, I sit down with Jessica Scholl, an American who has lived in Germany for 13 years and works extensively in intercultural relations. Together, we unpack what culture shock actually looks like, why adaptation isn’t simply a matter of time, and how living in another culture can affect your confidence, identity, and sense of self. Jessica explains why culture shock can be much more subtle than the obvious cultural differences we notice when we first move overseas. Sometimes it’s the accumulation of small moments: misunderstanding social cues, struggling to communicate, feeling like you’ve broken a rule you didn’t know existed, or suddenly finding something difficult that used to feel easy. Over time, those experiences can make you wonder: Is the country the problem... or am I? We talk about how to recognize those patterns without immediately blaming yourself, why adaptation doesn’t follow a neat or linear timeline, and what can actually help you build a life abroad while still holding onto who you are. We also discuss: What culture shock actually is Why culture shock can happen subconsciously Why adaptation isn’t a linear process The impact of living abroad on self-confidence Why easy tasks can suddenly feel difficult Language barriers and feeling misunderstood Cultural compatibility vs. incompatibility Germany’s rules and social expectations Making friends and finding community abroad Why you can still struggle after years abroad Giving yourself grace while adapting How moving abroad can change your identity If you’re experiencing culture shock, struggling to adapt to a new country, feeling frustrated with yourself while living abroad, or wondering why you still don’t completely feel at home after years overseas, I hope this conversation helps you better understand what you’re experiencing and gives you a little more grace along the way. ⏱️ CHAPTERS 00:00 Understanding Culture Shock 06:29 Early Culture Shock 11:46 Adaptation Isn't Linear 17:27 Language & Belonging 32:08 You or the Culture? 46:11 Breaking the Self-Blame Cycle 🌍 ABOUT THE POD ABROAD Howdy und Servus, y’all :-) I’m Paulina — originally from Texas and living in Munich, Germany for nearly 10 years. The Pod Abroad is a long-form podcast about life abroad, cultural differences, identity, immigration, and building a life overseas through honest conversations with people from around the world. 👉 New episodes every Tuesday. 🎧 LISTEN & CONNECT Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/711j4OK Apple Podcasts → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast All platforms → https://linktr.ee/thepodabroad Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/thepod.abroad TikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@thepodabroad Substack → https://substack.com/@thepodabroad Inquiries → [email protected] 🎥 CREW Video, Audio & Music → Tim ter Huurne Design / Branding → Ali Khazanbeik

What do Germans think about America? A German who's never been to America shares his honest opinion on the USA. We discuss Germany vs USA, American stereotypes, life in Germany, American culture, work-life balance, politics, healthcare, and how Europeans view the United States.How much of what we believe about a country comes from firsthand experience—and how much comes from the media, culture, and the people around us?In this episode of The Pod Abroad, I sit down with my friend Stephan, a German who has never visited the United States. Despite never having been there, he has thoughtful opinions about American life, shaped by years of observing the country from afar.Together, we explore where those opinions come from, what surprised me about his perspective, and how our conversation challenged assumptions on both sides. Rather than debating which country is "better," we talk about the trade-offs between life in Germany and the United States—from work culture and quality of life to politics, consumerism, media narratives, and what it's like viewing America from Europe.Whether you're American, German, an immigrant, an expat, or simply curious about cultural differences, I hope this conversation gives you a new perspective!⏱️ CHAPTERS00:00 First Impressions01:29 Why He's Never Gone09:43 Perception vs. Reality20:11 America's Trade-Offs31:02 Challenging Assumptions43:12 What We Can LearnTopics we discuss:A German's perspective on AmericaGermany vs. USAHow Europeans view the United StatesAmerican stereotypes abroadMedia influence and perceptionWork-life balance and quality of lifePolitics and cultureConsumerism and the American DreamTravel, identity, and cultural assumptionsCan you really judge a country you've never visited?🌍 ABOUT THE POD ABROADHowdy und Servus, y’all :-) I’m Paulina — originally from Texas and living in Munich, Germany for nearly 10 years.The Pod Abroad is a long-form podcast about life abroad, cultural differences, identity, immigration, and building a life overseas through honest conversations with people from around the world.👉 New episodes every Tuesday.🎧 LISTEN & CONNECTSpotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/711j4OKApple Podcasts → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcastAll platforms → https://linktr.ee/thepodabroadInstagram → https://www.instagram.com/thepod.abroadTikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@thepodabroadSubstack → https://substack.com/@thepodabroadInquiries → [email protected]🎥 CREWVideo, Audio & Music → Tim ter HuurneDesign / Branding → Ali Khazanbeik

Germany, moving to Germany, life in Germany, British expat in Germany, living abroad, Germany vs UK, cultural differences, immigration, Munich, expat life, moving overseas, British immigrant, Germany podcast, life abroad.What happens when you move to Germany for just two years... and end up staying for 40?In this episode of The Pod Abroad, I sit down with Nick Walker, a Brit who arrived in Germany in the 1980s expecting his move abroad to be temporary. Four decades later, Germany is home.Nick shares what it was like building a life in Germany long before smartphones, Google Maps, or international communities were common. We talk about learning the language, adapting to German culture, raising a family abroad, returning to the UK and California, and why Germany always pulled him back.We also discuss:* What Germany was really like in the 1980s* Why so many expats struggle to integrate* Germany vs. England after living in both countries* The importance of learning German* Building friendships and community abroad* Whether Germany truly feels like home* The biggest mistakes foreigners make when moving overseas* Advice for anyone considering a move to Germany or EuropeIf you've ever dreamed of moving to Germany, wondered what it's like to build a life abroad, or questioned where "home" really is, I think you'll really enjoy this conversation.⏱️ CHAPTERS00:00 Everybody Knew My Name02:17 Why I Moved to Germany14:56 Life in Germany as a British Expat27:52 Germany vs. England After 40 Years41:30 The Biggest Mistake Expats Make54:45 Advice for Moving to Germany🌍 ABOUT THE POD ABROADHowdy und Servus, y’all :-) I’m Paulina — originally from Texas and living in Munich, Germany for nearly 10 years.The Pod Abroad is a long-form podcast about life abroad, cultural differences, identity, immigration, and building a life overseas through honest conversations with people from around the world.👉 New episodes every Tuesday.🎧 LISTEN & CONNECTSpotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/711j4OKApple Podcasts → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcastAll platforms → https://linktr.ee/thepodabroadInstagram → https://www.instagram.com/thepod.abroadTikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@thepodabroadSubstack → https://substack.com/@thepodabroadInquiries → [email protected]🎥 CREWVideo, Audio & Music → Tim ter HuurneDesign / Branding → Ali Khazanbeik

Linda Jo Rizzo shares what it was like becoming an American singer in Germany during the 1980s. In this interview, we discuss Italo Disco, culture shock, moving from New York to Germany, life abroad, and building a music career in Europe.Linda arrived in Germany in 1984 expecting to stay just two weeks. Instead, one opportunity changed everything, launching a career that has taken her around the world while making Germany her second home.We talk about:Growing up as an Italian-American in New York CityThe culture shock of moving to Bavaria in the 1980sHow Germany became the center of the Italo Disco movementWhat it was like performing for German audiences versus American crowdsBuilding an unconventional career as an independent artistRaising a family while touring across EuropeIdentity, belonging, and having two places to call homeWhy she never truly stopped feeling American after four decades abroadHer advice for anyone pursuing a creative career todayWhether you're interested in Germany, immigration, life abroad, music history, or simply hearing an incredible life story, I hope you enjoy this conversation with Linda.⏰ CHAPTERS00:00 – From New York to Germany02:05 – Why two weeks became 41 years06:15 – First impressions & culture shock13:25 – Munich's incredible 1980s music scene21:10 – Building a life and career in Germany30:40 – Identity: New Yorker, American & European39:30 – German vs American audiences52:45 – Creativity, success & finding fulfillment1:09:40 – Advice for artists and entrepreneurs1:18:20 – What's next for Linda Jo Rizzo?🌍 ABOUT THE POD ABROADHowdy und Servus, y’all :-) I’m Paulina — originally from Texas and living in Munich, Germany for nearly 10 years.The Pod Abroad is a long-form podcast about life abroad, cultural differences, identity, immigration, and building a life overseas through honest conversations with people from around the world.👉 New episodes every Tuesday.🎧 LISTEN & CONNECTSpotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/711j4OKApple Podcasts → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcastAll platforms → https://linktr.ee/thepodabroadInstagram → https://www.instagram.com/thepod.abroadTikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@thepodabroadSubstack → https://substack.com/@thepodabroadInquiries → [email protected]'s website: https://lindajorizzo.com/Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/lindajorizzolivePhotographer of thumbnail photo: https://www.milapairan.de/🎥 CREWVideo, Audio & Music → Tim ter HuurneDesign / Branding → Ali Khazanbeik