Everyone Is Moving To Berlin: Recent Episodes
Manuel Salmann & Jae Staten
If you’re looking to move to Berlin (or just moved here), then this podcast is for you. We're here to provide personal insight on everything you need to know in order to move to Germany's pulsating capital. Through each episode, we tackle topics that will help you make your journey to Berlin easy and enjoyable. Already living in Berlin? Then you might appreciate hearing the tips, advice and personal stories of others who've decided to call Berlin their new home. Find out more here: https://everyone.berlin
Why the podcast is ending. Life, dating and club culture in Berlin. Thoughts on psychedelics, sobriety, meditation, and moving to Berlin. And: Our final pieces of advice to Berlin newcomers.
Show Notes
- Sasha's Event: LikeButter — Dating just got Butter
- Materialists (Wikipedia)
- MAPS - Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies
- MIND Foundation
- Sasha's Podcast: Psychedelics Without Borders
- SWR Doku: Können Drogen Depressionen heilen? Eine Ketamin-Therapie ist Karins letzte Hoffnung (YouTube)
- Manuel's Meditation Retreat was fascilitated by the SAGE Institut
- Tracey Club
- Lail Arad - Everyone Is Moving To Berlin (YouTube)
Our listener Tatiana moved to Potsdam for her (second) master’s degree and discovered that studying in Germany isn’t just about grades and academic growth. From blocked accounts to culture shocks, she shares the lessons, surprises, and tips she wishes she’d known before making the leap.
Show Notes
- DAAD: International Programmes in Germany
- uni-assist
- German Blocked Account Amount: A Guide for International Students
- Fintiba
- WOLOHO – Help each other
- studierendenWERK BERLIN
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John Kampfner, journalist, author, and long-time Berliner, joins Manuel to talk about how the city has evolved over the decades. They also dive into Germany’s current political challenges and what they mean for the future. Plus, John shares some hidden gems in Berlin that go beyond the usual guidebook recommendations.
Show Notes
- John Kampfner's Website
- John Kampfner's Books
- Newsletter: Citizen of Everywhere
- John Kampfner über Identität und Geschichte der Hauptstadt: »Berlin ist niemals fertig« (SPIEGEL)
- Ein bewundernder Blick auf Deutschland (Easy German Podcast 175)
Special Places in Berlin
- Bergmannkiez (Berlin.de)
- Viktoriapark (Google Maps)
- Tempelhofer Feld (Google Maps)
- Hasenheide (Google Maps)
- Ausstellung "Enthüllt" at Zitadelle Spandau
- Documentation Centre for Displacement, Expulsion, Reconciliation at Anhalter Bahnhof
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Antje, a Portland native with German roots, discusses her journey toward potentially relocating to Berlin in her 50s. She shares her experiences with language learning, dual citizenship, and the challenges of balancing family, career, and a potential move later in life.
Show Notes
- Easy German Podcast
- Hotel Matze: Hape Kerkeling über innere Ruhe, Überforderung und Traumaverarbeitung (YouTube)
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This episode is jam-packed with tips on saving money in Berlin. There's transportation and dining tips, insurance recommendations, information on Turkish markets and food-sharing platforms, our favorite newsletters, and just a lot free stuff. It's time for Berlin money hacks!
Show Notes
- All the Hacks (Podcast)
- Neuköllner Wochenmarkt Maybachufer (Google Maps)
- Libanon Falafel (Google Maps)
- Sahara Imbiss (Google Maps)
- Too Good To Go
- nebenan.de
- Humana (Google Maps)
- Mit Vergnügen Berlin
- WOLOHO
- The Berliner
- Urban Nation
- Berlin-Ticket S (Berlin.de)
- Bliq
- nextbike
- Feather Insurance
- All About Berlin
- Check24
- MyJump
- Geizhals Preisvergleich
- DKB Girokonto (* Refer-a-friend Link)
- N26
- GenialCard
- Berlin Libraries: VÖBB
- YNAB - You Need A Budget (* Refer-a-friend Link)
-
Other episodes mentioned
- Berlin’s Lakes: Beaches, Buzz, and Nudists
- Cycling in Berlin (Without Breaking Your Collarbone)
- Insurance You Need (And Don't Need) in Germany
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There are almost 200 museums in Berlin — and Stephanie Pearson has seen many of them. A dedicated museum enthusiast, she has offered guided museum guides, currently works for a museum, and co-founded museums.love, a "Museum Lover's Guide". She shares with us her must see (and hidden gem) museum recommendations and offer tips for navigating Berlin's museums — even if you're not normally "a museum person".
Show Notes
- museums.love — The Museum Lover's Guide
- Pergamon Museum
- Liebermann Villa
- Brücke-Museum
- PalaisPopulaire
- Museum Island Berlin
- Humboldt Forum
- Jewish Museum Berlin
- Museum Sunday
- Samurai Museum Berlin
- Ramones Museum Berlin
- Dark Matter Berlin
- Urban Nation Museum
- Long Night of Museums
- Futurium
- Schirn Kunsthalle Frankfurt
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Diana Goldberg moved from Munich to Berlin and ditched her health sciences studies to pursue a career in music. In this episode, she tells us what it's like trying to make it as a singer/songwriter, from the challenges of the music industry to the thrill of performing live in Berlin. Diana shares her journey of recording her first song in a home studio, the importance of networking, and how Berlin's vibrant music scene has influenced her work.
Diana Goldberg
- Website
- Spotify
Show Notes
- Pirate Studios
- Super Sessions
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Jack is back on the show and helps us characterize Berlin's neighborhoods — from multicultural Neukölln, trendy Kreuzberg, gentrified Prenzlauer Berg to … Lichtenberg?
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Daniel Hahnemann, co-founder and CEO of Wundertax, talks us through the why and how of tax filing in Germany. We talk about when you can expect a refund, outline deductions for students and employees, and explain tax obligations for freelancers and businesses. If you study or work in Germany and haven't filed your taxes this year, this episode is for you.
Show Notes
- Try Wundertax for free and receive 5 € off when you file your German taxes through moving.wundertax.de (Werbung)
- Tax Tips from Wundertax
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Alice is a French expat. In our conversation, she explains her decision to ditch Paris for Berlin, details how she managed to find an apartment, shares tips on how to find work as a coder in Berlin, and provides insights into the secret society of French people in Berlin.
Show Notes
- Immobilienscout24
- WG Gesucht
- Meetup.com
- Unicorns in Tech
- Berlin Population 2024
- European elections: How to vote in Germany
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Jae has had some challenges with flatmates and landlords. So we dedicate an entire episode to tenant associations, deposits and everything you need to know before the rental dispute hits you. (*All names have been changed.)
Show Notes
- Berliner Mieterverein
- Mieterschutzbund
- Conny
- Mieterengel
- What is a Mietkautionskonto? (All About Berlin)
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In our first episode in 2024, we reflect on the growth of our podcast and the decision to release episodes on our own timeline. We express gratitude to our supporters and invite suggestions for topics and guests and talk about our personal goals for this year. For our main topic, we discuss the recent demonstrations against racism and the far-right AfD party in Germany.
Show Notes
- Jim Carrey's Wild New Year's Eve Celebration (YouTube)
- Buy us a coffee to support the show
- TED: The art of asking | Amanda Palmer
- Jae's Website
- Check Mag (No. 16 features Jae's art on the cover)
- In the End, It Was All About Love (Goodreads)
- AfD (Wikipedia)
- Secret plan against Germany (Correctiv)
- Germans Push Back as Far Right’s Influence Grows (New York Times)
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Kevin Alterfritz, historian and Potsdam aficionado, takes us beyond Berlin’s shadow to reveal why many believe Potsdam is the real highlight. We explore the city's hidden gems, from the Dutch Quarter to the Russian Colony and the palatial parks that outshine even Sanssouci. Kevin shares his personal journey with Potsdam, tips for experiencing its compact beauty, and why it's known as Germany's Beverly Hills.
Berlin Welcome Package Ideas:
- 1 Year Free Membership for Therapy
- Set of Rose-Tinted Glasses
- Light Therapy Lamp
- Keychain Multitool
Potsdam
You can contact Kevin at kevin.alterfritz@gmail.com. He also gives private tours of Berlin and Potsdam but be aware that he is often booked-up months in advance.
A great way to get to know Potsdam is with the walking tours offered by the city tourism office, Potsdamer Service & Marketing GmbH.
Kevin's inside tips for the summer:
- Pfingstberg Belvedere
- Meierei brewery and beer garden (The brewery pub is open year-round)
- Marble Palace (This palace is open year-round on weekends)
- Swimming area at the Heiliger See
- Culture Area Schiffbauergasse
- Villa Colony Babelsberg (The city tourism office tours given here are only in German!)
At this time of year (November and December), Potsdam offers several Christmas Markets.
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Lony and Sean fell in love with Berlin on a summer tour and spontaneously decided to swap their life in North Carolina for a fresh start in Berlin. The couple not only navigated the maze of immigration laws and managed to secure a skilled worker's visa for Sean, who's a barber by trade, but also quickly scored work contracts and an apartment. In this episode, they reveal the steps that led to their seamless transition.
Show Notes
- Lony's Mindmap
- Make it in Germany
- Expats in Wonderland
- Rowdy Barber
- International Women in Berlin (Facebook)
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Geoff and Alex — better known as "Americans in Germany Drinking Whiskey" — join us to discuss their decade-long experience of living in Berlin. We talk about quirky German traditions, what it's like when everyone switches to English for your benefit and the pros and cons of the German supermarket-experience. They also have quite a few tips for Berlin newcomers.
Show Notes
- Americans in Germany Drinking Whiskey (Website & Podcast)
- AGDW - An Expat Channel (YouTube)
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Back from our summer break, Manuel speaks with Olivia, Rae, and Laura who all chose a plant-based lifestyle. We talk about Berlin's reputation as a vegan haven, animal rights activism in Berlin and how to survive as a vegan when traveling to smaller towns in Germany. And: So many restaurant recommendations (all linked below).
Show Notes
- olivethevegan_ (Instagram)
- Dominion (YouTube)
- Peter Singer: Animal Liberation (Goodreads)
- Ed Winters: This Vegan Propaganda (Goodreads)
- Animal Rights Square
- HappyCow
- Veganz
- Garden Gourmet Veggie Lovers Pizza
Mentioned Cafés & Restaurants (Google Maps)
- Plant Base
- Kiez Falafel
- Tak Tak
- Nam Y
- La Stela Nera
- Milano Vice
- Försters
- Vaust
- Feel Seoul Good
- Vöner
- li.ke : serious||thai||vegan
- Swing Kitchen
- Vincent Vegan
- Vedang
- Veg'd
- Die Vetzgerei
- KIM999
- Emira Vegan Sushi Restaurant
- Secret Garden
- Cookies Cream
- Kopps
- Lucky Leek
- FREA
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We're about to take a summer break — but first, a glimpse into Jae's "toxic relationship" with Berlin: He's getting evicted, received an unexpected 1,900 euros hospital bill and has a knack for receiving all kinds of fines and fees. Despite all that, he's staying resolute and optimistic.
Show Notes
- Deutschlandticket vs. VBB-Umweltticket der BVG
- 9-Euro-Fonds
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Is there too much (or too little) stuff in your life? In this mini-episode, Manuel explains how to buy and sell used things in Berlin. Besides (not-eBay) Kleinanzeigen and Vinted, two popular online platforms, there's the hugely popular Mauerpark Flohmarkt, various other fleamarkets and the Berliner Fahrradmarkt. (And: Scammers!)
Show Notes
- George Carlin: Stuff (YouTube)
- Kleinanzeigen
- Best of Kleinanzeigen (Instagram)
- Vinted
- Flohmarkt im Mauerpark
- Flohmärkte in Berlin (Berlin.de)
- Berliner Fahrradmarkt
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Berlin is amazing in the summer! In this episode, Jae details his trip to a local nudist beach, and Manuel describes his experience at a Kings of Leon open-air show. We also recommend visiting Berlin's open-air swimming pools, and Jae shares his experience hosting a party at Tempelhofer Feld.
Show Notes
- Teufelssee (Berlin.de)
- Outdoor swimming pools (Visit Berlin)
- Parkbühne Wuhlheide
- Waldbühne Berlin
- Fusion Festival
- Hurricane Festival
- Rock am Ring Festival
- Whole Festival
- Songkick App
- Bandsintown App
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Berlin, a city known for its urban "roughness," surprises visitors with its captivating parks. These green havens offer a respite from the hustle and bustle, inviting moments of escape, peace, and unity. In this episode, Jae shares his personal connection to some of Berlin's favorite parks and the significance they hold for him. While not an exhaustive list, this episode serves as an inspiring starting point for those eager to explore the vast greenery and discover the hidden treasures within Berlin's parklands.
Show Notes
- Parks & Gardens in Berlin (Berlin.de)
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In this episode, we share our personal experiences with therapy, offer guidance on recognizing when you might need therapy, and explain how to find an English-speaking therapist in Berlin. We also explain if and when therapy is covered by insurance in Germany, describe what a first consultation looks like, and provide tips for finding a permanent therapist.
Please note: This episode discusses mental health, but it's not a substitute for professional advice. If you're in crisis, reach out to a healthcare provider immediately or contact a crisis hotline in your country.
Show Notes
- Maybe You Should Talk to Someone (Goodreads)
- List of English-speaking psychotherapists in Berlin (All About Berlin)
- 116117 — Der Patientenservice
- PsychInfo: Psychotherapeuten-Suchdienst
- Berliner Krisendienst
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Berliners love their lakes — especially in the summer. In this episode, Manuel recommends 7 lakes to check out when you're new to the city, explains what a "Strandbad" is, urges you to avoid the crowds and gives a primer nudist culture (FKK) in Germany.
Show Notes
- Naked Berlin sunbather chases wild boar after it steals his laptop (I Am Expat)
- Berliner Seen (berlin.de)
- 11 schöne Seen in und um Berlin (Mit Vergnügen)
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It's been a year, and Jae is still looking for a permanent place to live. This episode is all about what he's learned in the process. Everyone who got an amazing place at a good price "just got lucky" — but you won't get lucky without being fast and prepared. We explore how to navigate ImmoScout, the popular housing platform, break down what you need to include in your housing application to stand out and remind you of the importance of personal connections. Stay hopeful!
PS: Manuel here. I said "tenant" when I meant "landlord" like 50 times in this episode. Hope that's not too confusing. Sorry about that!
Show Notes
- ImmoScout24
- WG-Gesucht
And here's a quick template for your housing application message in German (only if you are indeed employed and don't have any pets — translate this before sending it!):
Sehr geehrte Damen und Herren,
mein Name ist [your name]. Ich bin [your age, just digits] Jahre alt und habe eine Festanstellung als [your job title] bei [company name].
Ich habe keine Haustiere, bin ordentlich und zuverlässig und suche eine Wohnung auf Dauer in Berlin. Über die Möglichkeit einer Besichtigung würde ich mich sehr freuen.
Mit freundlichen Grüßen, [Your full name]
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Survival mode can be a necessary response when moving to a new city, but when does it become time to transition to thriving mode? In this episode, Jae reflects on his experiences of living in Berlin for over a year and the moment when he realized he had been in survival mode for too long. He shares the impact this had on his mental health and the strategies he has been using to transition to thriving, such as finding community and prioritizing self-care.
Show Notes
- Jae’s Website: jae-creates.com
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In this episode, 19-year-old Olivia shares what it's like being an au pair in Berlin. She explains how to find an au pair family, shares what her working hours and pay look like, and provides "top tips to make an au pair stay great". We also dive into cultural differences between Germany and the UK.
Show Notes
- Olivia's YouTube channel
- Olivia on Instagram
- AuPairWorld
- Animal Rights Squares Berlin (Facebook)
- Kiez Falafel near Rosa-Luxemburg-Platz (Google Maps)
- Brammibal’s Donuts
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Berlin has sooo many libraries! In this episode, Manuel sums up the variety of resources offered by the VÖBB libraries, the Berlin State Library, and university libraries. You'll learn about the affordable library card and its benefits, including digital services and access to eBook, audio books and magazines — and hopefully feel inspired to check out your nearest library.
Show Notes
- VÖBB - Association of Public Libraries in Berlin
- Map of libraries
- Digital services
- Libraries in Berlin with public WiFi access
- Staatsbibliothek zu Berlin (Official Website)
- Berlin State Library (Wikipedia)
- Digitized Collections of the Staatsbibliothek zu Berlin
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Lulu Johnson, author of "Dating in Berlin: Tales of Modern Love and Relationships", joins us to share her wild dating experiences in the city of "non-commitment". In her 8 years of Berlin dating, she's seen it all — even the proud smile of a convicted murderer. We discuss why dating in Berlin seems to be so difficult, discuss the pros and cons of using dating apps, and gather Lulu's top dating advice for those seeking love in Berlin.
Show Notes
- Lulu Johnson: Dating in Berlin: Tales of Modern Love and Relationships
- Lulu on Instagram
- Esther Perel: Mating in Captivity: Reconciling the Erotic and the Domestic (Goodreads)
- Esther Perel: The State of Affairs: Rethinking Infidelity (Goodreads)
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Losing your passport (or getting it stolen) can be a very scary and daunting experience, especially if you’re not really sure what to do next. In this episode, we discuss what to do if you lose your passport while living in Berlin, including the specific process for reporting the loss or theft, obtaining a new passport, and navigating the visa implications. We also offer practical tips for preventing the loss or theft of your passport while living or travelling in Berlin.
Show Notes
- US Travel State Website
- US Embassy in Berlin
- Berlin State Office for Immigration
- 1Password
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Ricardo Ancona, a true film nerd and former theater owner, declares Berlin a movie lover's paradise. In this episode, he unveils the secrets of German cinema etiquette – from sweet popcorn, licorice and wine to hushed tones – and explains audio and subtitle choices. He also provides an overview of the many independent "Programmkinos" in Berlin — many of which you can even get a monthly flatrate subscription for. Lastly, we cover Berlin's open air cinemas and ask how one attends the Berlinale film festival.
Show Notes
- Ricardo auf Twitter: @WittyGuacamole
- Berlin Programmkinos: Tilsiter, b-ware, In Times, Wolf Kino, Kino Krokodil, Lichtblick, Hackesche Höfe, Brotfabrik, Filmrauschpalast (Moabit), Sputnik
- Hidden Gems: Arsenal, Zeughaus Kino, Kino International, Delphi Lux
- Open-air Kino Berlin
- Yorck Unlimited
- Yorck MonGay
- Silent movie at Babylon Berlin
- Berlinale
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Upon listener request, Manuel explores the ins and outs of using public transportation in Berlin. You'll learn about the various types of transportation available, such as the U-Bahn, S-Bahn, and trams, and how to find your route and buy tickets. You'll also hear about the different types of tickets, what the new "Deutschlandticket" is all about, and how to navigate the system with children, dogs, and bicycles.
Show Notes
- How to use public transit in Berlin (All About Berlin)
- Linie 1 Musical (Wikipedia)
- Linie 1 - Hey Du (YouTube)
- BVG „Is mir egal" (feat. Kazim Akboga) (YouTube)
- Ferry Route Map (BVG)
- BVG Ticket-App (BVG)
- Jelbi App (BVG)
- DB Navigator App
- VBB-Umweltkarte (BVG)
- Deutschlandticket (BVG)
- How to pay (or avoid paying) a BVG fine (All About Berlin)
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Michel van Collenburg is a musician and photographer living in the Netherlands who, every year, finds his way back to Berlin for it’s creativity and inspiration. In this episode, we find out more about Michel’s journey and how he has made Berlin his “second home”. Michel offers insights into his creative process, discusses his photo book and album inspired by Berlin, and gives tips for newcomers and visitors looking to explore the city's artistic side.
Guest: Michel van Collenburg
- nobuka auf Spotify
- nobuka auf Bandcamp
- Photography: @coffeeandcigarettes_72 auf Instagram
- Music: nobuka_music auf Instagram
Show Notes
- Coming To Berlin (Goodreads)
- Lost And Sound (Podcast on Apple Podcasts)
- c|o Berlin
- Wabi-sabi (Wikipedia)
- echtzeitmusik - kleiner berliner konzert kalender
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In this episode, Jae reflects on his 10-month journey of moving from Texas to Berlin. It explores Jae’s feelings of homesickness, what he misses most about the US, what he appreciates about Berlin, and whether he plans on staying in Berlin long-term. Through personal anecdotes and insights, Jae shares his experiences of adjusting to a new culture and finding a sense of belonging in this foreign city.
Show Notes
- ChatGPT → if anyone want’s to try it hehe
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Deborah's father was 16 when he fled Nazi Germany during a rescue effort of Jewish children known as the Kindertransport. He later raised a family in Australia and almost never spoke German anymore. Deborah and her siblings didn't consider claiming German citizenship until well into their adult lives. In this episode, Deborah shares why she finally decided to apply for a German passport under Section 15 of the Nationality Act, which allows victims of Nazi persecution and their descendants to become naturalized German citizens.
Show Notes
Historical Context
- Nuremberg Laws (Wikipedia)
- Kristallnacht (Holocaust Encyclopedia)
- 9 November in German history (Wikipedia)
- Kindertransport (Wikipedia)
- Into the Arms of Strangers: Stories of the Kindertransport (Vimeo)
1948 German Basic Law & Eligibility Clause
- German Citizenship Restoration (Wikipedia)
- German citizenship for descendants of Nazi victims (DW)
Why Children of German Jews Would Apply for Citizenship
- 'Sorry, Dad - I'm thinking of getting a German passport' (BBC)
- My Holocaust-surviving grandparents were stripped of their German citizenship by the Nazis. 80 years on, I'm one of the hundreds of Jews who have decided to reclaim it in 2021. (INSIDER)
Process for Application for German Citizenship
- Amendment to German citizenship law (Federal Office of Administration)
Searching for Your Berlin Ancestors
- Berlin address books (Digitale Landesbibliothek Berlin)
- How to search for family in Berlin (Landesarchiv Berlin)
- List of Berlin financial compensation applied for by German Jews, deprived of their business and homes in WW11 (WGA Datenbank)
Genealogy Sites
- Ancestry: paid subscription, has a good collection of German records
- My Heritage: paid subscription, has millions of records, including Jewish & Israeli records
- Myers Gazetteer – includes information on German place names & locations from 1871-1912
- Family Search: free, millions of records
- Geni: basic subscription is free
Specific Sites for Information about Jewish Family
- Arolsen Archives: free site, includes information about trnasports to concentration camps
- Holocaust Survivors and Victims Database (US Holocaust Memorial Museum)
- Israel State Archives
- JewishGen – mostly free
- JRI Poland (Jewish records for towns that were in Poland)
- Leo Baeck Institute: a New York-Berlin research archive with a focus on German-Jewish history
- World Jewish Relief Fund
- Yad Vashem – an Israel site for Holocaust records
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We're celebrating our first podcast-anniversary and starting a Discord Server. Join us to talk about all things Berlin! In this episode, we discuss the culture around anniversaries and birthdays in Germany — and how it compares to the US. Did you know that in Germany, you're the one supposed to give something to others on your birthday?
Show Notes
- Jae's Amazon Wish List
- Manuel's Amazon Wish List
- 💬 Join our Discord Server: https://everyone.berlin/discord
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Boring, but kind of important: In this episode, Manuel explains which insurances are required by law in Germany, which ones are optional but important to have, and which ones you may pass on depending on your personal situation.
Show Notes
- Types of insurance in Germany (All About Berlin)
- How to choose German health insurance (All About Berlin)
- Techniker Krankenkasse (TK)
- Verivox
- Check24
- Clark
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Manuel adopted a dog! We explain the process of fostering and/or adopting a dog in Berlin, how to know you're ready to be a dog owner, what you'll need to do once the dog is in your home, and what to keep in mind if you want to bring your pet to Germany.
Show Notes
- Animals Care e.V.
- Dogorama App
- Hundelieb App (Apple App Store)
- Anzahl der Haustiere in deutschen Haushalten nach Tierarten in den Jahren 2000 bis 2021 (statista)
- Dog Training by Kikopup (Manuel's favorite dog training channel)
- Is it harmful to attach a leash to your dog’s neck? (Dogmantics)
- Hunderegister Berlin
- TASSO e.V.
- Having a dog in Germany (All About Berlin)
- Moving to the EU with Pets (Perpetual)
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In this episode, Jae explains the lessons and tips he would tell his past self if he was moving to Berlin again for the first time.
Show Notes
- Gross Net Tax Calculator Germany
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German New Year's Eve traditions, how the German "Happy New Year" is different before and after January 1, why parts of Berlin go crazy (!) on New Year's Eve and our 2023 resolutions.
Show Notes
- Raclette (Wikipedia)
- Molybdomancy (Wikipedia)
- New Year Walk in Neukölln, Berlin (YouTube)
- Silvester in Berlin (YouTube Search)
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Advent calendars, Christmas markets, packed trains and the "Christkind" — Manuel shares what you can expect if you're spending Christmas in Germany for the first time.
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“Berlin is as cool as Brooklyn, but cheap.” This sentence inspired Jeremy to move to Berlin in 2014. While starting to learn German, he found that none of the existing language learning apps enabled him to speak the language, so he decided to start his own: Seedlang. In this episode, he shares how the process of starting a company in Germany compares to the US, why you should incorporate as soon as you make your first dollar, and why many people (ahem, Germans) didn't think his idea was even possible.
Show Notes
- Seedlang
- The Michel Thomas Method
- YourDailyGerman
- How Cari and Jeremy met: Learn German faster with our new app Seedlang (YouTube)
- Factory Berlin Co-Working
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In this episode Jae talks about his experiences being Black in Berlin and how it has affected him emotionally and mentally. In this raw, uncut episode which feels more like a diary entry, Jae opens up on how he feels about his life here as a person of color and some of the internal and external challenges that has come with it.
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Rachel Stern from The Local joins us to talk about having kids and raising a family in Berlin, Germany's working culture, life as a journalist, cash vs. cards, learning German, and the best and worst aspects of being an expat.
Show Notes
- The Local - Germany's News in English
- International Families Berlin (Facebook Group)
- SuperMamas Berlin
- Iranians and Israelis find an unlikely musical detente in Germany
- Explained: How Germany plans to make immigration easier for skilled workers
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In this short solo episode, Manuel shares how to avoid getting scammed when looking for an apartment in Berlin, and explains how teaching English can be a way to legally stay and work in the city.
Show Notes
- Hunderte Betroffene klagen über Abzocke auf Wohnungsplattform (rbb24)
- What is a Mietkautionskonto? (All About Berlin)
- How to move to Germany and become a freelancer (All About Berlin)
- How to find an English-speaking job in Berlin (All About Berlin)
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Jae talks about his first trips in Germany outside of Berlin (they didn't go as smoothly as planned). We then methodically go through some of the other major cities and "Bundesländer" (federal states) and compare them to Berlin — while Jae can't help but draw comparisons to certain US states and cities.
Show Notes
- Klaas bringt DICH in den exklusivsten Club der Welt (Late Night Berlin)
- Map of all German States (Wikimedia Commons)
- German federalism: How does it work? (DW)
- Easy German Podcast episodes about all German states:
- 85: Die deutschen Bundesländer (Teil 1) - Schaffe schaffe, Häusle baue
- 86: Die deutschen Bundesländer (Teil 2) - Lokalrivalitäten
- 87: Die deutschen Bundesländer (Teil 3) - Der "Meck-Pomm" Pommesburger
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Berlin is a special place, especially for artists. In this episode, Jae explains how Berlin's art scene was a big inspiration for him to come here and how the art scene might compare to some other cities he's previously lived in. He provides personal insight and recommendations for the different types of art one can engage with in Berlin. In addition, he discusses Berlin's famous street art scene and a few of his favourite graffiti artists.
Show Notes
- Berlin Music Video Awards
- Night Art Club
For writers, poets, rappers, comedians, and more. Night Art Club meets every Monday at Frankfurter Allee 91. Check out the Instagram for the weekly schedule. - 1UP
- Urban Nation Museum
- Kodak Ektar H35 Half Format Film Camera
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How does Berlin change you? We touch upon intercultural competence, Berlin's roughness, privilige, party life, safe spaces and boundaries while tackling this question.
Show Notes
- Scissor Sisters - Let's Have A Kiki (YouTube)
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In this solo-episode, Manuel explains how to register after you move into an apartment in Berlin and how to sign up for electricity, gas and internet contracts. Also: Reflections on the first 8 months of this show and some fun listener emails.
Show Notes
- Urban Sports Club
- How to move into an apartment in Germany (All About Berlin)
- How do electric bills work in Germany? (All About Berlin)
- Verivox
- Check24
- Fiber internet via PYUR
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Sunlamps, thick clothes & hot water bags: How we prepare for the infamous Berlin winter — and how the general energy in the city changes during the dark months. Also: Our stances on Christmas and gifts.
Show Notes
- How to pay (or avoid paying) a BVG fine (All About Berlin)
- 29-Euro-Abo-Aktion (BVG)
- 9-Euro-Fonds
- Manuels Sunlamp (Tageslichtlampe) (Amazon)
- Wärmflasche (Wikipedia)
- Wichteln (Wikipedia)
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In this solo episode, Jae provides an update on his mental health and how he has been managing since he’s been living here. He discusses the effects of burnout and a few strategies on how to compassionately encourage yourself as you go through some of your challenges.
Show Notes
- Previously on this podcast: Mental Health (Episode 9)
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Manuel is joined by Chris and Stephanie, both from the United States, each married to a German spouse. They share how easy/difficult it was for them to get their Aufenthaltsgenehmigung in Germany and how the visa application process compares to getting a Greecard in the U.S. We also discuss Berlin Fashion, rules at social gatherings, verbal formality and the words "expat" and "immigrant".
Show Notes
- Du vs. Sie - How to address someone in German (Easy German 382)
- Du oder Sie? (Easy German Podcast 24)
- Exberliner - Berlin in English since 2002
- 90 Day Fiancé (Wikipedia)
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Why grocery shopping in Germany is "like the Hunger Games" (Jae), which supermarkets you should know about, how much groceries will cost you each month, and how to order them online.
Show Notes
- Jae Creates A Vice Radio (Spotify)
- Lail Arad - Everyone is Moving to Berlin (YouTube)
- "fortnightly" (vocabulary.com)
- Stiftung Warentest
- POV: du gehst bei Dm einkaufen (Karim Jamal auf YouTube)
- Restaurant Pass (Sodexo)
- Ticket Restaurant (Edenred)
- You Need A Budget*
- Berliner Tafel e.V.
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Astha moved to Berlin from India without ever having visited the city. After a few exciting first weeks, she was struck by migratory grief. In this episode, we talk with her about how to deal with loneliness and how to find friends in a new place.
Show Notes
- Words And Not Much Esle (Astha's Podcast on Spotify)
- @asthaprakash (Astha on Instagram)
- Meetup.com
- Girls Gone International
- 10 Types of Odd Friendships You’re Probably Part Of (Wait But Why)
- Bumble BFF
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Jack and Jae discuss what it's like being gay in Berlin. Topics include Berlin's party scene and sex culture, finding a gay doctor, dating, queer events and activities, and how to find other gay friends.
Do you know about an apartment or room in Berlin? If so, please let Jae know at everyone.berlin/contact
Show Notes
- Siegessäule - Queer Berlin
- Mann-O-Meter e.V. - Berlins schwuler Checkpoint
- Doctor Goldstein
- man*Check Berlin
- Praxis Kulturbrauerei
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Jae finally got his working visa — and work is what this episode is about. Whether you'll be working in the "gig economy", as a freelancer, or as a regular employee, here are some ways you could try to make money in Berlin.
Show Notes
- Business Immigration Service (BIS) (berlin.de)
- The Obstacle Is the Way: The Timeless Art of Turning Trials into Triumph (Goodreads)
- brutto-netto-rechner.info
- GoinGlobal
- WoLoHo Newsletter
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Cari from Easy German joins us to describe the infamous Berlin mentality and ponder why Berliners often come across as cold or rude. We then try to establish the best method for learning German and share our favorite language learning tricks and resources.
Show Notes
- Easy German
- Deliberate Spanish
- Seedlang
- Duolingo
- Tandem
- GLS Campus Berlin: German Courses for Adults
- Berliner Volkshochschulen: Learning German
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We're back after a short hiatus to talk about one of the reasons we took a break: Mental health. Jae talks about a mental breakdown he experienced recently and we both share mental health resources available in Berlin and Germany.
Show Notes
- Psychosoziale Nothilfenummern in Berlin
- Berliner Krisendienst
- Psych-Info — die Therapeutensuchmaschine
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Berlin is not as cheap as it used to be — but it's still one of the more affordable capital cities in Europe. In this episode, we go through all of the monthly expenses you should budget for if you plan to live in Berlin.
Show Notes
- Cost of living in Berlin, and Germany (All About Berlin)
- Cost of Living in Berlin (Numbeo)
- Leipzig (Wikipedia)
- Compare gas, electricity and internet plans
- Verivox
- Check24
- Find out how much money gets deducted from your paycheck
- brutto-netto-rechner.info
- Church tax in Germany (Wikipedia)
- Transportation
- BVG monthly ticket
- Bolt (referral link)
- WeShare (referral link)
- Bahn
- Flixtrain
- Vinted App
- You Need A Budget
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Most people's first contact with Berlin is through travel. In this episode we discuss how to experience the city like a local. We also share Couchsurfing stories, explain how to spot a tourist and encourage you to go out and meet strangers.
Show Notes
- Jae Creates a Vibe Radio (Soundcloud)
- GLS Bank
- Couchsurfing
- Vagabonding: An Uncommon Guide to the Art of Long-Term World Travel (Goodreads)
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Jack is back on the show and joins us for lively (!) discussion on the best German bank account, which phone plan to choose and how to pick a "Fitnessstudio" (gym) in Berlin. We also cover the infamous Schufa, cheap meals in Berlin, burger places, milkshakes, bubble tea, prices for alcoholic drinks, seasonal depression and Jack's nails.
Show Notes * Bank accounts + N26 + DKB * + Girocard (Wikipedia) + Wise * * Schufa (Wikipedia) + SCHUFA-BonitätsAuskunft for 29,95 € + SCHUFA-"Datenkopie" for free * Phone plans + congstar * + ALDI Talk * Gyms + John Reed + Superfit + McFit + FIT X + Holmes Place + Urban Sports * Cheap meals + Libanon Falafel (Google Maps) + Döner Kebab (Wikipedia) * Burgers + Tommi's Burger Joint + Burgermeister + Smokey Greens + Vincent Vegan * Drinks + Admiralsbrücke (Google Maps)
- Referral link
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Jae has arrived in Berlin! While his trip couldn't have gone any smoother, his first week in the city was quite a roller coaster ride: He found his apartment on day one, marvelled at German doors and the local recycling system, discovered Apfelschorle (and the price of tap water), bought a bike, crashed said bike, and experienced some serious culture shock.
Show Notes
- How to sort your trash and recycle in Germany (All About Berlin)
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Manuel's friend Jack has been cycling around Berlin every day since 2012 and joins us to explain everything you need to know about the topic: Why Berlin is best discovered by bike, how to buy a bike in the first place, which type of bicycle to get and why electric bikes are a little bit like horses. Show Notes
- Jack's Instagram
- Fahrräder auf eBay Kleinanzeigen
- Komoot App
- Apps to rent bikes in Berlin
- Lime
- Donkey Republic
- nextbike
- Call a Bike
- Tier
- Jelbi
- Apps to rent electric scooters
- emmy - Referral code: WckD4aBP
- felyx - Referral code: VGA6Gzpp
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Kreuzberg, Friedrichshain, Neukölln, Tempelhof, Schöneberg, Mitte, Wedding, Prenzlauer Berg, Pankow, Tiergarten & Charlottenburg — an overview of Berlin's most important districts. Show Notes
- der Kiez (Duden)
- Verwaltungsgliederung Berlins (Wikipedia)
- Karte: Die zwölf Berliner Bezirke mit ihren 97 Ortsteilen
- SO36 (Wikipedia)
- Flughafen Berlin-Tempelhof (Wikipedia)
- Goltzstraße (Google Maps)
- Florastraße (Google Maps)
- Kurfürstendamm (Google Maps)
- Bikini Bar (Mall)
- Monkey Bar
- Grunewaldsee (Google Maps)
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Finding a place in Berlin will require a great deal of organization, optimism and endurance. We have some tips for you.
Show Notes
- All About Berlin: How to find an apartment in Berlin
- Berlin: Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS) beantragen
- WG-Gesucht.de
- ImmoScout24
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Why move to Berlin, which types of visas can get you here, what you should prepare before the move and how to get an appointment for the notorious Anmeldung.
Show Notes
- Alternative Berlin Tours
- Episode 4 of the Easy German Podcast in which we talk about life in Berlin
- All About Berlin
- Anmeldung einer Wohnung in Berlin (Termin-Suche)
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We'd love to hear from you! Get in touch with us at https://everyone.berlin if you'd like to contribute.
Music by Scott Buckley — www.scottbuckley.com.au