Kaffee und Kuchen with Internationals

In this episode, we dive into a poignant conversation between Sanchi, Manar, and Veronika. Their stories intertwine through the themes of migration, friendship, and the strength found in community. Manar Abbas, originally from Syria, shares his journey to Germany amidst the turmoil of civil war back home. The urgency of his departure is palpable as he recalls, "In Syria there was no future... you just go in a car, you don't know if you come back or not." Manar's story reflects an urgent search for safety and opportunity, leaving behind friends and family in a rush that felt almost secretive. Upon arriving in Germany in 2015 at the young age of 18, Manar faced the daunting challenge of language and cultural barriers while coming out of his flight or fight situation. However, he found a guiding light in Prof. Dr .Veronika Albrecht-Birkner, who became a significant support figure as he navigated his new life. Manar affectionately refers to her as his "German mother," highlighting the deep bond they formed. Veronika recounts her first encounter with Manar and his brother, recognizing the quiet strength in Manar. Their friendship blossomed into a familial bond as Veronika helped him with paperwork and integration into German society. Manar expresses gratitude for her assistance, stating, "She put a lot of sweat into it... I'm always thankful for her." Through their stories, we see a powerful example of how kindness can bridge cultural differences and create lasting relationships. As they discuss the complexities of the immigration process, Veronika shares her firsthand experiences navigating the bureaucratic landscape for Manar's family reunion requests. The shared frustrations of long queues and bureaucratic delays resonate deeply, as both Veronika and Manar reflect on the common struggles faced by many in the international community. "I found that really amazing... to give these people a voice was my goal," Veronika reflects on her efforts to advocate for better immigration processes. The conversation is a testament to resilience and the power of human connection. As they share their stories, we are reminded of the importance of empathy and support in helping others find their footing in new environments. To hear more about Manar's journey and the powerful friendship he shares with Veronica, tune into the full episode. Their experiences illustrate not just the challenges of migration, but also the incredible support that can arise through community and compassion.

“Bravery is not a feeling. Bravery comes from practice.”Welcome to another episode of Kaffee und Kuchen with Internationals in Germany! Today, Anne sits down with Anupa Paul, a self-employed voice coach, singer and aspiring choir conductor from Chennai, India, who moved to Esslingen to pursue her musical dreams.In this honest and uplifting conversation, we explore:✅ The decision to move to Germany on a one-way ticket✅ The difference between Zuhause and Heimat✅ Building belonging through music and community✅ Learning German through meaningful relationships✅ Why making friends abroad requires intention✅ Asking for help and creating a new support network✅ Practising courage by leaning into discomfort✅ Building a business abroad without losing sight of your lifeAnupa shares how joining a choir helped her find connection, improve her German and begin creating a sense of home. She also reflects on the vulnerability of living alone abroad, the resilience required to build a new life, and why bravery often means taking the next step while still feeling afraid.Whether you’re new to Germany, building a life between cultures, pursuing a dream abroad or simply wondering how to feel more at home where you are, this episode offers warmth, honesty and encouragement.👉 Connect with Anupa:📸 https://www.instagram.com/anupa_voiceandperformancecoach/✉️ Email: voicecoach.anupa@gmail.com📢 Subscribe for more international stories and reflections from life abroad.🎧 Tune in and feel the power of music, courage, connection and shared experience.

In this episode of Kaffee und Kuchen with Internationals, we sit down with Thusha, our first guest who is statistically a "German with migration background", to explore what it means to grow up between cultures. From the first day of school and painful stereotypes to family expectations, boundaries, therapy, and eventually finding pride in her identity, Thusha shares a deeply honest and thoughtful journey through childhood, adolescence, and adulthood in Germany. We also talk about what “integration” really means, how culture can be shared through food and education, and why being kind, curious, and open-minded matters more than ever in a diverse society. This conversation is full of insight for anyone navigating identity, migration, family dynamics, or the feeling of belonging to more than one place. Thusha’s story is a powerful reminder that home can be found in people, not just in geography. Listen for a heartfelt, honest, and inspiring conversation about culture, belonging, and the power of understanding each other.

In this episode of Kaffee und Kuchen with Internationals, we sit down with psychologist, author, and community-focused voice, Waithira, to explore what it really means to build a life between cultures.From her journey across Kenya, the UK, and Germany to her work with refugees and immigrants, Waithira shares deeply personal insights on identity, belonging, and resilience. We talk about raising third-culture children in multicultural households, navigating intercultural relationships, and holding on to your roots while adapting to a new society.A central part of our conversation also focuses on finding fulfilment and success at work—what it means to rebuild a career in a new country, face barriers such as unrecognized qualifications or workplace cultural differences, and still create a path that feels meaningful and aligned.Waithira is also the author of "Where My Name Sounds Different," published in both English and German. In this episode, she shares a powerful reading from her book, opening up an important conversation about creating and maintaining spaces where immigrants feel seen, heard, and understood—and why these spaces matter just as much for local communities.Together, we go beyond the surface of “integration” to unpack the emotional layers of migration: loneliness, pressure to fit in, confidence, and the ongoing search for belonging. We also reflect on what meaningful support for immigrants could look like, and why empathy, open dialogue, and community are essential for people not just to integrate, but to truly thrive.#immigration #refugees #internationals #lifeabroad #germany #kenya #lifeingermany

The real numbers behind Germany’s 25 million migration background population, including the distinctions between first- and second-generation immigrants. How recent shifts in migration policies are shaping newcomers’ integration experiences, from language classes to labor market access. The migration patterns of Turkey, Poland, and other large-origin countries, and how history influences where immigrants settle today. Why the social and economic climate impacts whether skilled workers stay, leave, or feel welcome in Germany. What the upcoming political changes could mean for immigrants and policies focused on integration or restriction. You’ll also get an insider’s look at how Germany’s migration policies evolved from the guest worker era to now focusing on skilled labor, and how current political trends threaten or bolster social cohesion. For anyone interested in the future of migration, integration, and multicultural societies, this episode offers essential insights into what lies ahead for Germany—and for global migration trends as a whole.Dr. Birgit Glorius is a renowned migration expert and professor at a leading German university, known for her pioneering research on migration biographies, integration policies, and social cohesion.Whether you’re a policy-maker, student, or curious about societal change, this episode provides a clear-eyed view of how immigration is reshaping Germany’s future — and what that can teach the rest of the world about managing diversity in an evolving global landscape.Perfect for anyone interested in migration, social policy, and European integration, this episode expands your understanding of the complex realities faced by migrants and the policies that shape their lives. Hit play to get ahead on one of the most pressing issues of our time.

"When you start from scratch, you can become anyone."Welcome to another episode of Kaffee und Kuchen with Internationals in Germany.In this episode, co-host Anne sits down with Mary, a mother of three originally from Russia, who shares her journey of rebuilding life across three countries before finally settling in Germany.What began as a departure from home became a profound lesson in resilience, identity, motherhood, and self-leadership. Together, Anne and Mary explore the realities of immigration beyond the practicalities: the emotional challenge of letting go of "temporary living," finding belonging, learning new languages, and creating a life from a blank canvas.In this honest and inspiring conversation, we explore:✅ Moving from Russia to Turkey, Hungary, and finally Germany✅ The emotional shift from "living abroad" to truly building a life somewhere✅ Raising children through multiple international moves✅ Language, identity, and feeling like a different person in different languages✅ German culture, rules, and adapting to a new way of life✅ Self-leadership, personal responsibility, and finding yourself again after motherhood✅ Why starting over can be one of life's greatest opportunitiesWhether you're newly arrived in Germany, navigating life between cultures, raising children abroad, or wondering who you are in this next chapter of life, this episode offers encouragement, perspective, and a reminder that rebuilding is possible.🎧 Tune in and join us for another honest conversation about life abroad.📢 Subscribe for more international stories, reflections, and conversations from life in Germany. Connect with Mary:https://www.instagram.com/maryblinkova/

Explore the complex realities of migration in Germany with Lina Mansour, a project manager at the International Organization for Migration. Discover who the migrants are, why they come, and the challenges they face. From integration hurdles to political impacts, this episode uncovers the hidden stories behind the statistics. Perfect for anyone interested in Europe's migrant landscape and the future of Germany's diverse society. Follow Lina on Instagram ( https://www.instagram.com/debriefwithlina ) and TikTok ( https://www.tiktok.com/@debriefwithlina ) for more insights.| 0:01 | Intro — Mohamed's opening questions about immigration in Germany | 1:41 | Interview begins with Lina | 2:14 | How many immigrants are in Germany?| 3:24 | Who counts as having a migration background in German statistics? | 5:04 | Top foreign national groups| 6:12 | First vs. second generation: why Germany doesn't distinguish them | 7:23 | Different challenges across immigrant groups | 9:33 | Historical context: immigrants from the 70s–90s and integration || 10:37 | How long do immigrants stay?| 12:18 | Why 40% want to leave — politics, taxes, bureaucracy | 13:25 | Second generation and connection to their homeland | 15:01 | Organizations that publish migration data | 16:36 | Politics section begins | 17:42 | Bundestag seat breakdown — CDU, AfD, SPD, Greens | 20:02 | Immigration stances of the mainstream parties | 22:56 | AfD's anti-immigration position and remigration policy | 25:10 | Future political outlook — Germany moving rightward | 28:05 | Direct implications for immigrants if the far right gains control | 32:51 | The contradiction: skilled worker demand vs. anti-immigration rhetoric | 37:16 | Economic section — German economy post-COVID | 38:34 | Do Germans blame immigrants for the economic decline? | 40:49 | Closing exchange and wrap-up

What does it really take to succeed as an immigrant in Germany? In this inspiring episode, Mutinta, a Zambian-born neonatal nurse in Berlin, shares her real-life journey of adapting to a new culture, navigating the German healthcare system as a professional, and overcoming stereotypes in the workplace.From language barriers to moments of discrimination, Mutinta opens up about the challenges many immigrants face, but also the powerful mindset shifts that helped her grow. She explains how simple, practical habits like gratitude, open yet kind communication, personal evolution, and cultural awareness can make a lasting difference in both personal and professional life.This episode dives into intercultural communication, diversity in healthcare, and why integration should be a two-way process between locals and newcomers. Mutinta also shares how staying connected to your roots, through food, language, and identity, can actually strengthen your confidence abroad.Whether you’re an immigrant, expat, healthcare professional, or someone working in a multicultural environment, this conversation offers practical advice and powerful insights on building inclusion, breaking stereotypes, and thriving in a new country.#immigrantlife #kakigermany #lifeabroad #lifeingermany, #culturalcelebration #workingingermanhealthcare, #overcomingstereotypes, #interculturalcommunication #immigration #pflegekräfte #nurseingermany 00:13 Introduction02:03 Moving to Germany: Love and Challenges04:45 Navigating the Nursing Recognition System07:46 Cultural Adaptation in the Medical Field09:18 Nursing in Zambia vs in Germany15:19 Gratitude for Simple Things in Healthcare17:17 Cultural Awareness and Integration in Healthcare27:22 The Need for Mutual Understanding in Integration27:47 Cultural Sensitivity and Integration Challenges29:15 The Importance of Communication in New Environments30:11 Navigating Stereotypes and Self-Esteem38:16 Addressing Stereotypes and Speaking Up 42:47 Balancing Cultural Roots and New Traditions 50:21 Empathy & Kindness

“Do not settle for something that is not worth it - because maybe you are the prize.”Trigger Warning!Before we start, a gentle content note: this episode includes personal experiences of domestic abuse, which may feel difficult or triggering for some listeners. Everything shared here is based on one person’s experience and has been shared intentionally and with consent. Please listen in a way that feels safe for you.Welcome to another episode of Kaffee und Kuchen with Internationals in Germany! Today, co-host Anne sits down with Kavita, an HR professional and career coach, to share her story of rebuilding her life in Berlin after domestic abuse, divorce, and deep personal upheaval.What began as a move for her Master’s degree became something much bigger: a chance to step away from expectation, rediscover herself, and create a new life built on self-belief, purpose, and freedom.In this honest and heartfelt conversation, we explore:✅ Starting over in Germany while carrying trauma, grief, and uncertainty✅ Letting go of societal expectations and learning to live without a script✅ Rebuilding confidence, independence, and a sense of self after abuse✅ Finding purpose through helping others navigate careers and job searches in Germany✅ Curiosity, consistency, and community as tools for healing and growth✅ Choosing not to settle - and learning to see your own worth clearlyThis is a powerful conversation about survival, identity, and what can become possible when you begin to choose yourself. Whether you’re new to Germany, rebuilding after hardship, or searching for your next step, this episode offers honesty, strength, and hope.Here is a small note from Kavita: "This podcast reflects my personal experiences and perspective. No individuals, locations, or identifying details have been disclosed. Any resemblance to identifiable persons is unintentional. Opinions expressed are my own and do not represent any organisation or community."📢 Subscribe for more international stories and reflections from life abroad.🎧 Tune in and feel the power of story, connection, and shared experience.

In this episode of Kaffee und Kuchen with Internationals, we share a beautiful conversation with Catalina from Colombia about moving to Germany and slowly, thoughtfully building a life here. She opens up about what it means to have home in two places, and how Germany came to feel like a place of safety.Her journey is full of change and courage: from being an architect, to being an au pair, to volunteering, and eventually beginning an apprenticeship in nursing in Germany. Along the way, she shares honest reflections on immigration, the importance of staying politically aware, and why patience matters so much when starting over in a new country.She also offers practical and encouraging tips for women who want to migrate safely to Germany, with clear steps and grounded advice. This is a conversation about reinvention, resilience, and the quiet strength it takes to build a new life.#Kakigermany #Germany #Women #lifeabroad #immigration #journey

“Don’t wait to start living the life you have now.” Welcome to another episode of Kaffee und Kuchen with Internationals in Germany! Today, co-host Anne Lassé sits down with Carey, an American financial consultant living in Germany, whose journey abroad has taken her through Munich, Oxford, Hamburg, and now Schwerin. What began as an unexpected work opportunity turned into a life built over decades — and a deep understanding of what it really means to stop living out of a “packed bag” and begin fully living where you are. In this honest and thoughtful conversation, we explore: ✅ How life abroad is shaped by much more than language alone ✅ The many puzzle pieces of settling in: finances, friendships, work, and mindset ✅ Why assumptions can make moving abroad harder — and curiosity can make it easier ✅ The difference between being somewhere temporarily and truly building a life there ✅ Why it matters to invest in friendships, hobbies, language, and long-term planning even when the future feels uncertain ✅ Carey's perspective on Germany as a place of structure, safety, and democratic stabilityWhether you’re new to Germany, unsure how long you’ll stay, or caught between living in the present and waiting for “what’s next,” this episode is a powerful reminder to start now. Build the life that supports you, even if the future is still unfolding. 👉 Connect with Carey for support around finances and settling into life in Germany: Email: carey.witt@ovb.dehttps://www.instagram.com/expat_helps_expats/ WhatsApp: +49 15561 519923 📢 Subscribe 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 #Germany #ExpatLife #StartLiving #BuildingAHomeAbroad

What does it mean to build a life, a home, and a sense of purpose in Germany as an international?In this episode of “Kaffee und Kuchen with Internationals”, we sit down with Luardo (@berlinelsewhere ,  @gutentagpodcast ), a Berlin-based software engineer by day and podcaster by passion. His own show dives into the stories of people navigating identity, belonging, and real purpose in Germany. And this time, he’s on the other side of the mic. We talk about: ➡️02:55 - His journey to Germany and what has kept him here ➡️06:04 - What “home” means when you live between cultures ➡️09:54 - Navigating identity and belonging as an international ➡️15:25 - How his podcast was born and why these conversations matter ➡️18:20 - Mental health and migration, and how to recognize internal vs external triggers ➡️23:08 - Culture shocks, and how he learned to deal with them ➡️28:32 - His message on integration and the pursuit of a good life in Germany If you’re an international in Germany, a local curious about these experiences, or someone who has ever questioned where they belong, this conversation is for you. 🧁 New here? Kaffee und Kuchen with Internationals is a podcast about real stories from people living in Germany – the highs, lows, culture shocks, and everything in between. 📌 Listen/Follow us on Substack, LinkedIn, Insta/Facebook, Apple Podcasts or your favourite podcast streaming platform! If this episode resonates, leave a comment with your own story of identity, belonging, or culture shock in Germany, and share it with a friend who needs to hear it.

[0:00] Introduction[1:28] Legislative Shift[3:28] Impact on Migrants[5:26] Broader Implications[9:13] Comparison with EU[12:45] ConclusionRachel Stern, an American journalist in Berlin, provides expert analysis on this significant policy change affecting internationals in Germany. Tune in for a concise breakdown of what this means for you and the broader implications for Germany's workforce needs.

Trigger warning: This reel includes discussion of racism and harassment.Welcome to another episode of Kaffee und Kuchen with Internationals in Germany. In this episode, co-host Anne Lassé sits down with Pranitha, whose life has unfolded across India, the UK, and now Germany. Pranitha shares a deeply honest reflection on identity, belonging, and what it really means to build a sense of home after multiple cultural transitions.From navigating childhood moves and questions of “where are you from?”, to facing racism as an adult in Germany, Pranitha offers a powerful perspective on resilience, safety, and choosing not to let painful moments define who you are.In this honest and heartfelt conversation, we explore:✅ Growing up between cultures and living with a layered identity✅ Loneliness, belonging, and building new circles as an adult abroad✅ Experiencing racism — and reclaiming a sense of safety and strength✅ Dance as an anchor for identity, expression, and community✅ Seeing life abroad as a space for growth, courage, and reinventionWhether you’re new to Germany, living between cultures, or reflecting on who you’ve become through change, this episode offers comfort, validation, and a reminder that growth often comes through challenge.Connect with Pranitha:https://www.instagram.com/pransdiaryof/ https://www.instagram.com/prarang.dance/https://www.youtube.com/@prarangdance📢 Subscribe for more international stories & reflections from life abroad.🎧 Tune in and feel the power of story, connection, and shared experience.#KaKIGermany #LifeAbroad #Belonging #Identity #InternationalLife #Podcast #StorySharing #Resilience #Reinventing

Season 2 begins with an honest and thoughtful conversation about life, research, and identity across borders.In this episode, we sit down with Roudy, a PhD candidate from Lebanon to talk about what it’s really like to pursue a doctorate in Germany. He shares his journey of transitioning into PhD life, the realities of academic research, and everything that comes with working in a new system and culture.We explore his experiences in research, the cultural barriers he has had to navigate, and how he learned to adapt and embrace change along the way. He also offers practical advice for aspiring PhD students who are considering taking this path abroad.Beyond academia, the conversation turns deeply personal. We talk about homesickness, staying connected to home during times of conflict, and how to cope with global challenges while building a life far from family and familiarity. He reflects on the importance of finding community, creating support systems, and embracing the full experience of living abroad — both the struggles and the growth that come with it.This episode is about resilience, belonging, and the courage it takes to grow in a new place while carrying your roots with you.00:00 Introduction04:56 Transitioning to PhD Life in Germany10:01 Experiences and Challenges in Research14:36 Advice for Aspiring PhD Students19:37 Navigating Cultural Barriers in Academia24:03 Embracing Change and Cultural Integration30:49 Navigating Homesickness and Global Challenges41:08 Finding Community and Support in Difficult Times43:31 Embracing the Full Experience of Life Abroad#phdlife #lifeabroad #kakigermany #internationallife #immigration #germany

In this episode of "Kaffee und Kuchen with Internationals," we sit down with Jenna Davis, the inspiring founder of "Life in Germany" and "Life in Düsseldorf." Jenna shares her journey from Canada to Germany, discussing the challenges and triumphs of integrating into a new culture. Discover how she turned her experiences into thriving online platforms that help internationals navigate life in Germany. Don't miss Jenna's insights on cultural integration, family life, and her exciting projects. Check out Jenna's YouTube channels for more: Life in Germany and Life in Düsseldorf.

“We’re not trees. We can move, experiment, and choose again.” Welcome to another episode of Kaffee und Kuchen with Internationals in Germany! Today, cohost Anne Lassé sits down with Chrysa, a Greek podcast manager for human-centered businesses and changemakers, to share her story of starting again in Germany with a newborn, navigating language barriers, and treating life abroad as an experiment rather than a final decision. In this honest, raw and heartfelt conversation, we explore: ✅ What it’s really like to move countries with a two-month-old baby✅ Culture shocks, weather shifts, and the quiet loneliness of the early years✅ The struggle and importance of learning German to build connection and community✅ Finding support systems, asking for help, and not doing immigration “alone”✅ Seeing immigration as an experiment – and remembering “we’re not trees”✅ Redefining home as something you can build in more than one place Whether you're new to Germany, living between cultures, or simply love stories of human resilience and growth, this episode will offer insight, comfort, and a sense that what you’re feeling is normal. 👉 Connect with Chrysa and her podcasting work: https://chrysastoiloudi.com/ 📢 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 #ImmigrationJourney #NewMumAbroad #ExperimentNotFailure

In this episode of Kaffee und Kuchen with Internationals, Sanchi and Diana explore the challenges and joys of making new friends in a foreign country. Diana shares her personal journey of moving from Romania to Germany, discussing the cultural differences, language barriers, and the importance of staying true to oneself. The conversation delves into the significance of authenticity, the role of international communities, and the evolving nature of friendships. 00:00 Introduction 01:39 Challenges of Moving to a New Country 04:53 Cultural Differences and Language Barriers 06:29 Navigation Friendships and Building Deeper Connections 25:00 Overcoming Fears and Social Anxiety 29:00 Authenticity and Creating Lasting Friendships 48:42 Parting Message

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