In this episode of "Kaffee und Kuchen with Internationals," we talk with Feli, known online as "Feli from Germany," to discuss her unique journey from Munich to Cincinnati, Ohio .
Feli shares insights into cultural differences, her experiences with German heritage in the US., and the nuances of communication between Americans and Germans.
The conversation also delves into her YouTube journey, her relationship with her American husband Ben, and their recent move back to Germany. Join us for an engaging discussion on life, culture, and the adventures of living between two worlds.
“You can say no — and that’s okay.”Welcome to another episode of Kaffee und Kuchen with Internationals!
Today, co-host Anne sits down with Sarona, a communication strategist, leadership advisor, and founder of the Hype Woman community and podcast.
Originally from South Africa and now living in Germany, Sarona shares her journey of love, change, identity, and learning to take up space in a new culture.In this honest and heartfelt conversation, we explore:
✅ Moving to Germany for love — and adapting through curiosity and faith
✅ The balance between planning and leaving room for “a little bit of magic”
✅ Building community and belonging one connection at a time
✅ Saying no with kindness and breaking free from the “good girl” pattern
✅ Finding courage to express yourself and your voice abroad
Whether you’re new to Germany, navigating cultural change, or redefining what it means to belong, this episode will leave you feeling seen, inspired, and reminded that growth happens one small step at a time.
👉 Connect with Sarona: @hypewomen_thepodcast
📢 Subscribe here for more international stories & reflections from life abroad.
🎧 Tune in and feel the power of story, connection, and shared experience.
#KaKIGermany #MovingToGermany #LifeAbroad #Integration #Podcast #StorySharing #Belonging #InternationalLife #WomenAbroad #Boundaries #PeoplePleasing #HypeWoman
✨ From Short Stay to Life Abroad | Rachel’s Story ✨
When journalist and writer Rachel Stern arrived in Germany, she thought she’d be here for just nine weeks. Thirteen years later, Berlin is home. 🇩🇪
In this episode of Kaffee und Kuchen with Internationals, Rachel shares the ups and downs of making a life abroad — from navigating German bureaucracy to carving out a freelance career. She reflects on how learning the language, building a network, and staying open to new experiences shaped her journey.
💬 We talk about:
✅ Cultural differences and adapting to German life
✅ The leap from employment to freelancing as an international
✅ Fast-track citizenship and stories of cultural collaboration
✅ Finding excitement and connection in the everyday
Whether you’re new to Germany or years into your journey abroad, Rachel’s story is an inspiring reminder to stay curious and embrace the unexpected.
🎧 Tune in for honest reflections, practical insights, and the power of storytelling across cultures.
If you want to read some of Rachel's articles, you can find them here:
https://www.thegermanreview.de/
In this captivating episode of "Kaffee und Kuchen with Internationals in Germany", we sit down with Joe Baur, an American traveler and runner who has made Germany his home. Joe shares his unique journey from the U.S. to becoming a German citizen, highlighting his passion for exploring the world beyond tourist hotspots. From the vibrant streets of Berlin to the serene landscapes of Switzerland, Joe's adventures offer a window into the rich tapestry of cultures he has encountered. Join us as we delve into his experiences, the culinary delights he's discovered, and the stories that have shaped his global perspective. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or an armchair explorer, this episode promises to inspire your wanderlust and appreciation for the world's diverse cultures.Joe Baur Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@BaurJoe @BaurJoe get access to "Off the beaten Path" E-Book by Joe Baur: https://joebaur.com/product/germany-off-the-beaten-path-e-book/Book Adventures with Joe's Company "Burning River Running Company": https://burningriverrunningcompany.com/TimeStamps:00:00 Intro02:05 The decision to move to Germany09:53 Joe Life in Düsseldorf and Berlin15:52 Journey to naturalisation in Germany21:34 Passion for Travel and Adventure31:24 E-Book "Off the beaten Path in Germany"33:50 Launching a Travel Company "Burning River Running Company"40:05 Outro
In this episode, we sit down with former integration officer Jhon whose own journey spans the Philippines, Germany, and now Switzerland. Drawing from over a decade of experience living abroad and working within the healthcare system, he shares an honest and nuanced perspective on what it really means to integrate—not just assimilate—into a new society.
Whether you’re an international yourself, working in integration, or simply curious about the human side of cultural adaptation, this conversation offers valuable insights—and a powerful reminder of the importance of empathy, patience, and communication.
Get to know Jhon -
Jhon, who many of you know as The German Brownie is originally from the Philippines, became a naturalised German, and has just recently moved to Switzerland. His journey started 12 years ago when he came to Germany on a scholarship to do his master’s degree. The plan was to stay just six months after finishing, but that turned into more than ten years. During that time, Jhon worked in academia, the NGO sector, and later as an Integration Officer at a private hospital chain in Hamburg, where he spent almost four years helping foreign medical professionals find their footing in a new workplace. Along the way, he started The German Brownie page to share his own experiences and offer practical advice on immigration and labour issues in Germany. His story is really about taking chances, finding opportunities, and helping others do the same.
Join us for this fun conversation :D!
00:00 Journey from the Philippines to Germany
02:56 Navigating cultural challenges in a new country
05:43 From surviving to thriving abroad
08:52 The role of an integration officer in healthcare
11:45 Integration vs assimilation
14:40 Importance of language in integration
17:42 Creating a supportive environment for internationals
20:33 Emotional burnout
23:40 Advocating for others
25:38 The need for mutual effort in integration
30:58 Setting expectations in cultural adaptation
33:00 Navigating cultural challenges and communication
36:13 The importance of communication
39:12 Unlearning hierarchy
41:31 Finding common ground in cultural practices
43:37 The emotional aspect to integration
46:31 Understanding context
50:12 Role of organizations in integration
53:39 The parting message
🎙️ In this episode of Kaffee und Kuchen with Internationals, we sit down with Natalia, a Guatemalan artist and designer who moved to Germany in 2021. She shares her journey of navigating cultural transitions, building meaningful community through her project El Refugio and art workshops, and finding a sense of home far from home.We dive into honest conversations about imposter syndrome, identity, resilience, and the power of saying yes to new opportunities. From navigating cultural differences to community building, personal growth to fulfillment in work and life and more —this episode is a warm, uplifting reminder that creating space for yourself (and others) is both brave and beautiful.Grab your Kaffee & Kuchen, and join us for this inspiring story of courage, creativity, and connection. ☕🍰
00:00 Introduction to Natalia's Journey
02:49 Cultural Adaptations and First Impressions
05:39 Finding a Sense of Home in Germany
08:43 Building Community and Friendships
11:40 Opening Doors through Art and Yoga
17:39 The Power of Saying Yes and Embracing Change
19:36 Finding Fulfillment in Work and Life
20:45 Navigation Job Loss and Building Resilience
24:13 The Importance of Community and Support
26:33 Balancing Personal Growth and Responsibilities
28:53 Embracing Identity in a New Culture
31:41 Dealing with Challenges of Dual Belonging
36:52 Trusting Yourself and Taking a Leap of Faith
In this episode, we sit down with Savina who shares her unique journey of studying, leaving, and ultimately returning to Germany for work. From the challenges of student life to the realities of the professional world, she opens up about navigating language barriers, cultural integration, and the differences between academic and work environments in a foreign country. We dive into the culture shocks, personal adjustments, and eye-opening lessons learned through language and human connection. Together, we explore the importance of breaking stereotypes, embracing diversity, and fostering mutual understanding in a globalized world. The episode closes with a heartfelt message on the power of kindness and perspective in building bridges across cultures.
Thinking about studying or working in Germany as an international? In this episode of Kaffee & Kuchen with Internationals, Salvador shares experience of moving from Mexico to Hamburg to pursue a master’s degree in software engineering. He talks about dealing with German bureaucracy, culture shocks, learning the language, building a career, and finding a sense of belonging.Whether you're a working professional, international student, or planning to move to Germany, this episode is full of honest insights, practical advice, and inspiring stories about life abroad.#internationsingermany #livingabroad #studyingermany #hamburg #germany #culture
🌍 “Building a Life Abroad: Love, Language & Belonging” | Kaffee und Kuchen with Hannah
“Learning the language helped me feel less like a visitor and more like a participant in life here.” – Hannah
Welcome to another episode of Kaffee und Kuchen with Internationals in Germany! Today, cohost Anne sits down with Hannah, a Canadian content creator and community builder living in Germany, to share her story of integration, self-discovery, and finding her place abroad.
In this honest and heartfelt conversation, we explore:
✅ Falling in love across cultures & navigating relationship breakdowns
✅ Language learning as a gateway to confidence & connection
✅ Finding belonging and building community through creativity and events
✅ Underemployment, career shifts & the journey to valuing your worth
Whether you're new to Germany, living between cultures, or simply love stories of human resilience and growth, this episode offers insight, comfort, and inspiration.
📢 Subscribe for more international stories & reflections from life abroad.
🎧 Tune in & feel the power of story, connection, and shared experience.
#KaKIGermany #MovingToGermany #LifeAbroad #Integration #Podcast #StorySharing #Belonging #InternationalLife #Germany #LanguageLearning #CrossCulturalLove #CommunityAbroad
In this episode, KaKI co-host Sanchi sits down with Tammam, who shares his inspiring journey of moving from Syria to Germany at just 18 years old, in the midst of one of the country’s most challenging periods.
We talk about the layers of adapting to a new culture, navigating identity, and building a new life from scratch. Tammam opens up about culture shocks, the importance of community, and how mental health plays a huge role in resilience.
He also offers practical insights on accessing resources for students, migrants, and anyone looking to find their footing — from education to mental health, legal help, and beyond. The episode wraps up with a heartfelt message: the crucial importance of taking care of yourself, no matter where you are on your journey.
Whether you’re navigating a big life change, interested in internationals' stories, or just love human resilience stories — this one’s for you. Tune in and be inspired.
00:00 Introduction
5:55 Navigating Life in a New Country
11:51 Mental Health and Support Systems
17:45 Hope for the Future of Syria
23:49 Navigating Academic Choices
30:23 The Role of Support Systems
37:36 Cultural Integration and Identity
39:42 Take-Away for the listeners
🌱 Letting Go and Building Trust – A Pathway to Integration | Kaffee und Kuchen with Lora 🇩🇪🌍In this heartfelt episode of Kaffee und Kuchen with Internationals, cohost Anne Lassé chats with coach and mother Lora about what it really means to build a sense of home in Germany while raising children as foreigners. Through honest reflections and shared stories, Anne and Lora explore the quiet but transformative journey of letting go—of expectations, comparisons, and perfection—and building trust in yourself, your parenting, and your place in a new culture. Whether you’re a parent abroad or navigating your own path between cultures, this conversation will leave you feeling seen, supported, and inspired to keep going—gently and intentionally.
📌 Topics Discussed:
✅ Cultural Differences (like how many layers a child should wear!)
✅ Staying Grounded in Your Own Values
✅ Reclaiming Identity as a Parent Abroad
✅ The Invisible Mental Load of “Being the Foreigner”
✅ Integration as an Intentional Path
🤝 Connect with Lora
🌐 Website: www.theinneradvocate.com
💼 LinkedIn: / theinneradvocate
👩💼 Join the IWEG Facebook Group: / 202236754301711
📢 Subscribe for more international stories, honest reflections, and supportive insights from those living life across borders.
🎧 Tune in and feel the power of story, trust, and shared experience.
#InternationalParenting #LivingAbroad #GermanyLife #KaKIGermany #IntegrationJourney #TrustYourPath #LifeBetweenCultures #Podcast
In this special episode of the Kaffee und Kuchen with Internationals in Germany podcast, host Mohamed welcomes Jen, the inspiring co-founder of the Simple Germany YouTube channel. Jen shares her journey from Guatemala to Hungary and finally to Germany, discussing her motivations for leaving her home country, including her quest for safety, equality, and better career opportunities.Jen opens up about the challenges of starting over, including adapting to new cultures and languages, facing career crossroads, and making bold career changes—from customer support to becoming a front-end developer. She also talks about building Simple Germany with her partner Ivonne, creating valuable content to help internationals thrive in Germany.The conversation dives into Jen's turning points, the importance of finding community, and the inspiration behind Simple Germany Academy, which offers practical courses on everything from job hunting to mastering Germany's recycling rules.Whether you're considering a move to Germany or simply looking for a story of resilience and growth, this episode is filled with insights and encouragement.👉 to visit Simple Germany's YouTube channel and Academy: https://www.youtube.com/@simplegermany
Moving abroad is an adventure—but it’s not always easy. In this episode, we sit down with Hildemar, an international from Venezuela who has lived in four different countries before settling in Germany. She shares her honest journey—the culture shocks, the struggles, and the moments of doubt—as well as how she turned Germany into a place of professional success.
We talk about:
✅ The real challenges of starting over in a new country
✅ Workplace culture & honesty in Germany
✅ Dealing with conflicts at home from far away
✅ How community and initiative can help you thrive
Her story is one of resilience, growth, and the power of taking action. Don't miss this insightful conversation!
🌍 Living in Germany | International Life | Interview with Andrea (Casa Rafaela) 🇩🇪In this episode of Kaffee und Kuchen with Internationals, cohost Anne Lassé sits down with Andrea from Casa Rafaela to explore the journey of building a life in a new country. Andrea shares her experience of moving between countries, making a major career shift, and rediscovering her identity while integrating into German culture. They dive into the challenges of language learning, the pressure to "blend in," and the importance of embracing both new and native cultures. Whether you're an expat navigating your own transition or just curious about the experience of living abroad, this conversation is filled with insights, warmth, and inspiration. Tune in to hear Andrea’s journey of finding home in Hamburg!📌 Topics Discussed:✅ Adapting to German Culture✅ Language Learning✅ Creating Community✅ Wellbeing👉 Find Casa Rafaela: https://www.instagram.com/casarafaela_/📢 Subscribe for more international stories & international insights!
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:52 Andrea's Background and Journey to Germany03:50 Adapting to German Culture05:04 Language Learning and Immersion15:57 Creating Casa Rafaela24:17 Winter Reflections and Self-Care34:25 Advice for Newcomers to Germany39:33 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
🌍 Moving to Germany | Expat Life in Hamburg | Interview with Lukacs (Expats in Hamburg - Facebook Group) 🇩🇪
Welcome to this special episode of Kaffee und Kuchen with Internationals in Germany Podcast! Today, we sit down with Lukacs, an IT professional from Hungary who has been living in Hamburg since 2015. He shares his journey of moving for love, adjusting to life in Germany, and becoming the administrator of the popular Facebook group "Expats in Hamburg" (28,000+ members!).
📌 Topics Discussed:
✅ Moving to Germany: Challenges & Adaptation
✅ Cultural Differences & Learning the German Language
✅ Bureaucracy & Surprising Experiences with German Authorities
✅ Running a Large Facebook Expat Community
✅ What It Means to "Belong" in a New Country
If you're an expat, planning to move to Germany, or just curious about life in Hamburg, this episode is for you!
👉 Join the Expats in Hamburg Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/expats.hamburg
📢 Subscribe for more expat stories & international insights!
#internationallife #Hamburg #MovingToGermany #InternationalLiving #Podcast
