Today I'm joined by my former flatmate and longtime friend, Bibi, who moved from Kazakhstan to Germany nearly a decade ago. We chat about what brought her to Munich, what it was like studying at the Technical University of Munich (TUM), how she navigated German culture, and her journey to actually becoming a German citizen (!!). This one’s full of stories about adapting abroad, unexpected culture shocks, and the beautiful chaos of international friendships.

🎧 What to expect in this episode:
• moving to Germany “just for 2 years” (and never leaving)
• becoming German: citizenship tests, passport thoughts & the evil eye?!
• cultural quirks from Kazakhstan you probably didn’t know
• life at TUM, trying new hobbies (hello pole dancing), and finding your people abroad

—

🎧 FOLLOW US

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/711j4OK...
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...
More platforms: https://linktr.ee/thepodabroad

📌 CONNECT

IG → @thepod.abroad (https://www.instagram.com/thepod.abroad)
TikTok → @thepodabroad (https://www.tiktok.com/@thepodabroad)
Email → [email protected]

🎥 PRODUCTION

Video, Audio & Music: Tim ter Huurne
Branding: Ali Khazanbeik @alikhazanbeik

—

#thepodabroad #germanyvlog #kazakhstan #studyingingermany #expatlife #germancitizenship #internationalstudents #lifeabroad

We’re diving into a very Texan episode of The Pod Abroad today: riding horses to school? Pew pew finger guns? 🇺🇸🇩🇪I’m joined by my friend Max, who moved from Texas to Munich less than a year ago—and we’re unpacking the wild (and sometimes true) stereotypes about Texans abroad, what Americans get wrong about Germany, and how it actually feels to start over in a new country.From Whataburger loyalty and Buc-ee's nostalgia to German bureaucracy and Bavarian pride, we’re sharing the honest, funny, and sometimes frustrating realities of adapting to life abroad as Americans.-Howdy und Servus!! I'm Paulina :-) Welcome to The Pod Abroad, your go-to podcast for stories from international friends living around the globe! I'm originally from Texas and have been living in Munich, Germany for over 8 years. I initially moved for a master's program in sustainability and then liked it so much that I stayed!🎧 This episode is for you if:•⁠ ⁠You're curious about what life abroad *really* looks like as an American•⁠ ⁠You’re a Texan (or know one) and want to feel seen/laughed at lovingly•⁠ ⁠You're interested in cultural differences, stereotypes, and the awkwardness of fitting in•⁠ ⁠You're planning to move to Germany and wondering what to expectSaddle up and grab a pretzel — this one’s for the international Texans out there 🤠🥨⸻CHAPTERS & TIME STAMPS0:00 Intro – Welcome back to The Pod Abroad0:23 How Pau & Max met at the Munich gym (Texas sticker bottle story)2:07 Episode roadmap – Texas, travel & life in Germany2:45 Max’s back-story: growing up NY → Canada → Texas3:46 From solo trip to love: why Max moved to Munich5:02 Texas roots – Houston vs. the Rio Grande Valley6:41 Missing Tex-Mex & appreciating hometown culture8:40 Houston’s diversity & Mexican-American identity chat10:54 German stereotypes about Texans (guns, horses, accents)12:03 Texan stereotypes Germans get wrong13:03 Whataburger, Buc-ee’s & H-E-B nostalgia15:00 Texas-size pride & Bavarian parallels17:45 UT Austin vs. Texas A&M rivalry explained21:45 College life comparison – Austin vibes vs. College Station29:06 Austin vs. Munich: culture, food & outdoors34:12 Asia travel recap – Hong Kong, Taipei, Seoul36:38 First real trip abroad & Croatia memories43:04 Moving to Germany: first impressions & semester in Würzburg49:02 German bureaucracy, visas and onboarding hurdles52:55 Advice for Americans eyeing a move to Germany54:56 Looking ahead – how long will Max stay?55:55 Rapid-fire “Would You Rather” game58:53 Wrap-up & thanks for listening🎧 FOLLOW USYouTube: https://youtu.be/r8J2Qqx0g8gApple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-pod-abroad/id1807093153More platforms: https://linktr.ee/thepodabroad📌 CONNECTIG → @thepod.abroadTikTok → @thepodabroad Email → [email protected]🎥 PRODUCTIONVideo, Audio & Music: Tim ter HuurneBranding: Ali Khazanbeik @alikhazanbeik#ThePodAbroad #TexasToGermany #CultureShock #ExpatLife #AmericanAbroad #MovingToGermany #PodcastEpisode #TexansInGermany #Bavaria #MunichLife #USvsGermany #MakingFriendsAbroad #LifeInGermany #InternationalLife #TexasAbroad

What's it like moving from Bulgaria to Germany? Join me, Paulina (an American in Munich!), as I chat with my friend Betina, a fellow long-term immigrant who has called Munich home for 12 years. We share our experiences navigating cultural differences and building a life abroad in Germany.

In this episode of The Pod Abroad, you'll hear:

• Betina's story of moving to Munich for studies at just 18 and why she decided to stay.
• Our thoughts on the differences between daily life in Bulgaria and Germany.
• The stereotypes Betina encounters as a Bulgarian and the reality of her language and culture.
• The challenges Eastern European immigrants face here, like the frustrating apartment hunt.
• Our reflections on whether you ever truly stop feeling like an immigrant.
• Some of Betina's funny and stressful first moments in Munich.
• A quick travel guide to Bulgaria with must-see spots!
• We also dive into pop culture, chatting about the Grammys and our favorite movies and series.
• Plus, a fun "Hot or Not" round on German and Bulgarian things!

If you're curious about the immigrant experience in Germany, cultural comparisons, or want to hear a fun chat about pop culture, give this episode a listen!

Connect with us! [email protected]

Collaborations & Mentions: A big thanks to Betina for sharing her story and insights with me!

Video, Audio, Music production/editing: Tim ter Huurne

Branding: Ali Khazanbeik @alikhazanbeik

#BulgarianInGermany #EasternEuropeanInGermany #ExpatMunich #CultureShock #ImmigrantStories #LifeInGermany #Bulgaria #Munich #PopCulturePodcast #TravelBulgaria #ThePodAbroad #Podcast #ExpatLife

🇺🇸🇩🇪 What's it like being an American (now also German 😎) immigrant making friends, navigating culture, and planning a wedding in Germany? In this episode of The Pod Abroad, I chat with my fellow American in Munich, fellow southerner, ex-coworker, sweet friend, the coolest, Jordan! We speak about his experiences moving from the U.S. to Germany, the cultural differences between the two countries, and wedding planning here.

Howdy und Servus!! I'm Paulina :-) Welcome to The Pod Abroad, your go-to podcast for stories from international friends living around the globe! I'm originally from Texas and have been living in Munich, Germany for over 8 years. I initially moved for a master's program in sustainability and then liked it so much that I stayed!

Join Jordan and I as we discuss his journey from the state of Georgia in the U.S. to making Munich his home after living around the globe in China, Panama, and Ireland. We talk about the surprising aspects of German culture, the differences in making friends compared to the U.S., and his perspective as a gay man living in Germany. We even get into what he misses most about the states and what he appreciates about life in Germany. Plus, you'll hear about his experience planning a wedding with his German fiancé, Max!

Learn about:

• Jordan's journey moving to from the south in the U.S. (Georgia/Texas) to the south of Germany (Bavaria)
• Our perspectives on "American fake friendliness" vs. German directness
• The experience of the LGBTQ+ community in Munich compared to the U.S.
• The differences in making friends and socializing in Germany.
• Wedding planning as an American in Germany and navigating cultural differences
• What Jordan misses most about Georgia

If you're interested in stories about American immigrants/expats in Germany, cultural comparisons, making connections abroad, or the realities of intercultural relationships and wedding planning, this episode is for you!

Connect with us![email protected]

Collaborations & Mentions:A big thanks to Jordan for sharing his story and insights!! You da best.

Branding: Ali Khazanbeik @alikhazanbeikVideo, Audio, Music production/editing: Tim ter Huurne

#AmericanInGermany #AmericansInMunich #ExpatGermany #CultureClash #MakingFriendsAbroad #LGBTQGermany #GayInMunich #WeddingInGermany #InterculturalRelationships #Podcast #NewPodcast #ThePodAbroad #Munich #Germany #ExpatLife

🇺🇸🇩🇪🇧🇪 What's it like navigating life in Munich as an American-German with a upbringing in Belgium and the U.S., a love for travel, and going through pregnancy in Germany? In this episode of The Pod Abroad, I chat with my friend Anika! We dive into her unique multicultural identity, our shared passion for travel (including why Slovenia is a hidden gem!), and her initial experiences with the German healthcare system during pregnancy.

Howdy und Servus!! I'm Paulina :-) Welcome back to The Pod Abroad, where I connect with international friends living around the globe!

Join Anika and I as we discuss her journey from her American-German upbringing in Belgium, to living and working in the U.S., to making Munich her home. We talk about what it's like to feel connected to multiple cultures, our different travel styles and favorite destinations, and then transition into Anika's experience with pregnancy in Germany – from finding a midwife to navigating the healthcare system.

Learn about:

• Anika's multicultural identity and growing up in Belgium
• Her journey to living and working in Munich
• Our perspectives on American vs. European travel
• Anika's first impressions of the German healthcare system during pregnancy/ the role of midwives in Germany
• A sneak peek into maternity leave in Munich
• Our "Hot or Not" takes on a few fun topics!

If you're interested in listening about multicultural experiences, love travel stories, or are curious about pregnancy and parenthood in Germany, this episode has something for you!

Connect with us![email protected]

Collaborations & Mentions:A big thanks to Anika for sharing her story and insights!! She’s the best. Follow her on Instagram (@anikainmunich_) or TikTok(@travelwithanika)Branding: Ali Khazanbeik @alikhazanbeikVideo, Audio, Music production/editing: Tim ter Huurne

#americansabroad #americansingermany #americansinmunich #immigrantsinGermany #expat #culturaldifferences #travel #traveleurope #travelgermany #culture #upbringing #pregnancy #newmom #momingermany #americanmomingermany #pregnantingermany #podcast #newpodcast #thepodabroad

🇹🇭✈️ Get ready for a deep dive into my incredible (and at times, almost deadly?!) trip to Thailand! In this episode of The Pod Abroad, I'm sharing all the must-knows for your Thailand adventure, from navigating the bustling streets of Bangkok to the serene beaches of Koh Samui.Howdy und Servus!! I'm Paulina :-) Welcome to The Pod Abroad, your go-to podcast for stories from international friends living around the globe! I'm originally from Texas and have been living in Munich, Germany for over 8 years. I initially moved for a master's program in sustainability and then liked it so much that I stayed!We'll cover everything you need to plan your Thailand getaway in 2025, including:

• Accommodation: Where we stayed in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and the islands.
• Varmtel in Bangkok: https://www.booking.com/Share-6p31qz8
• Pran in Chiang Mai: https://www.booking.com/Share-XwQycq
• Red Ginger in Ao Nang: https://www.booking.com/Share-iroIDv

• Food in Thailand: I’m talking about the curries (red, green, massaman, panang!), the amazing mango sticky rice, papaya salad, and even where to find fantastic vegan food in Thailand. Forget Pad Thai!

• Thailand Travel Tips: Learn from my experiences, including getting a local SIM card (Airalo e-sim!), navigating transportation (skip those Bangkok tuk-tuks!), what to pack (temple-appropriate attire), and crucial health advice (bug spray).

• Culture Shocks: What surprised me about Thai culture, including eating with a fork and spoon and the incredible kindness of the locals.

• Itinerary Breakdown: Bangkok's crazy markets (Chatuchak Weekend Market, Train Night Market), the beauty of Chiang Mai (temples, Thai cooking class, best massage ever!), and the islands (Ao Nang, Koh Samui).

• Massages in Thailand: You won't believe how amazing and affordable they are!

Plus, I'll share what I'd do differently next time and some crucial things I wish I knew before going to Thailand.If you're dreaming of a Thailand vacation, looking for Thailand travel tips, or curious about vegan eats in Thailand, this episode is for you! Listen to the full story and get all my Thailand recommendations!❤️ Enjoying The Pod Abroad? Subscribe for more travel adventures and expat stories!➡️ Check out my previous episode with Ong in Munich!    • The Best & Worst Parts of Living Abro...  Connect with us! [email protected]: Ali Khazanbeik @alikhazanbeik Video, Audio, Music production/editing: Tim ter Huurne#Thailand #ThailandTravel #TravelGuide #Bangkok #ChiangMai #KohSamui #VeganThailand #ThaiFood #TravelTips #CultureShock #ThePodAbroad #TravelPodcast #2025Travel

🇩🇪🇹🇭🇺🇸 Ever wondered what it's really like to experience life in Thailand, Germany, and the USA as an expat? In this episode of The Pod Abroad, I chat with my friend Ong, a Thai native who shares his insightful experiences navigating these different cultures. If you're interested in expat life across continents, definitely tune in!

Howdy und Servus!! I'm Paulina :-) Welcome to The Pod Abroad, your go-to podcast for stories from international friends living around the globe! I'm originally from Texas and have been living in Munich, Germany for over 8 years. I initially moved for a master's program in sustainability and then liked it so much that I stayed!

Today, we dive into Ong's journey from the vibrant city of Bangkok, Thailand, to Munich, Germany, where we met during our studies, and his impressions of his time spent in the USA.

Ong shares his initial experiences living and studying in Germany, contrasting it with his life in Bangkok and his observations of American culture. We explore cultural differences, the challenges of moving to a new country (like the Munich housing search!), and even touch on our perspectives on current politics in Germany and the US from our unique international viewpoints.

Learn about:

• Ong's journey from Thailand to Germany and his time in the USA
• The contrasts between Thai, German, and American cultures
• The realities of expat life in Munich from Ong's perspective
• Navigating cultural differences and understanding new social norms
• Our thoughts on global politics from our international perspectives

This episode is perfect for anyone dreaming of moving abroad, curious about German or Thai culture, or fascinated by the diverse experiences of living as an expat across different continents!

Connect with us![email protected]

Collaborations & Mentions:Sending a big thank you to Ong for sharing his wonderful insights!Branding: Ali Khazanbeik @alikhazanbeikVideo, Audio, Music production/editing: Tim ter Huurne

#livingabroad #expatlife #germany #thailand #usa #americaningermany #thaiexpat #munich #bangkok #culturaldifferences #travelpodcast #podcast #thepodabroad #expatstories #globalcitizens #germanculture #thaiculture #americanculture #studyabroadgermany #movingtogermany #lifeingermany #lifeinthailand #lifeinusa

🇩🇪🇲🇽 Ever wondered what it's really like to move from Mexico to Munich? In this episode of The Pod Abroad, I (Paulina) chat with my friend Paola about her funny and insightful experiences navigating German work culture, the quest for authentic Mexican food in Germany, and the surprising cultural differences she's encountered. If you're interested in expat/immigrant life in Germany or the clash between Mexican and German culture, definitely give this a watch!

Howdy und Servus!! I'm Paulina :-) Welcome to The Pod Abroad, your go-to podcast for stories from international friends living around the globe! I'm originally from Texas and have been living in Munich, Germany for over 8 years. I initially moved for a master's program in sustainability and then liked it so much that I stayed! 

Today, we dive into Paola's journey from the vibrant streets of Mexico City to the charming city of Munich, Germany.

Paola shares her initial culture shock, from the tranquility of German offices (compared to the bustling energy of Mexico!) to the unique (and sometimes unexpected) social customs. We explore the nuances of work culture in Germany versus her experiences in Mexico, and the often funny challenges of building friendships in a new environment.

For all the foodies out there, get ready for a fun discussion about Mexican food in Munich – the triumphs, the struggles of finding key ingredients like tomatillos, and the ongoing debate about what real Mexican food actually is (hint: it's probably not just burritos!). Later in our conversation, Paola reflects on her five years as an expat/immigrant in Munich, sharing the biggest lessons she's learned, from language hurdles to embracing the German appreciation for nature and punctuality. We also touch on common German stereotypes from a Mexican perspective and the importance of finding your community abroad.

Learn about:

• The key differences in German and Mexican work culture.
• Where to (and where not to) find authentic Mexican food in Germany.
• The realities of expat life/immigrant life in Munich.
• Navigating cultural differences and culture shock.
• Building a life and finding community in a new country.

This episode is perfect for anyone dreaming of moving abroad, curious about German culture, fascinated by Mexican traditions, or simply looking for an engaging and relatable story about life as an expat/immigrant.

Connect with us!

• [email protected]

Collaborations & Mentions:

• Sending un fuerte abrazo to Paola for sharing her wonderful story!
• Branding: Ali Khazanbeik @alikhazanbeik
• Video, Audio, Music production/editing: Tim ter Huurne

#ThePodAbroad #ExpatLife #Germany #Munich #Mexico #MexicanCulture #GermanCulture #WorkCulture #FoodCulture #MovingAbroad #Intercultural #Podcast #Travel #Munich 

Howdy und Servus!! I'm Paulina :-) I'm originally from Texas and have been living in Munich, Germany for over 8 years. I initially moved for a master's program in sustainability and then liked it so much that I stayed! In this episode of The Pod Abroad, I chat with my friend Chris, a fellow American who now calls Munich, Germany home. We dive into his wild journey from a semester abroad here, to teaching English in Korea, and his journey as a stand-up comedian in Europe. We jump into politics and discuss current German affairs and the ongoing trend of Americans wanting to leave the states after elections.In the second half, we reflect on the impact of studying abroad, the realities of making German friends (especially in Munich!), and the funny feeling of reverse culture shock when returning to the U.S. Join Chris and I for a candid, funny, and insightful conversation about what it's really like to be an American living life in Germany! #americansingermany #lifeingermany #livingabroad #expatlife #culturaldifferences #standupcomedy #germany #podcast #travelpodcast #americanineurope #usvsgermany #expatstories #immigrantstories #munich #korea #travel #comedy #germanpolitics #americanpolitics #americanabroad #newepisode #studyabroad #reversecultureshock #makingfriendsingermany #travelstories #podcastinterview #expatpodcast #comedyinterview #germanlifestyle #immigrant #immigration #expatgermany #lebenindeutschland #münchen

Howdy und Servus!! I'm Paulina :-) I'm originally from Texas and have been living in Munich, Germany for over 8 years. I initially moved for a master's program in sustainability and then liked it so much that I stayed! Ever wonder if it's too late for a big life change? My mom, MJ, proves it's never!On this episode of The Pod Abroad, I have a talk with my amazing mom, MJ! At 60 years young, MJ decided to leave her life in Austin, Texas, and move to the beautiful coastal city of Alicante, Spain, for a volunteer opportunity. Hear all about her journey, from her Tex-Mex roots and what led her to Spain. MJ shares her initial impressions of Europe, the surprising freedom of walking everywhere in Alicante (despite living with rheumatoid arthritis), and the challenge of selling her belongings and navigating the visa process.This is definitely a story of optimism, resilience, and the power of pursuing your dreams at any age! Shoutout to my mom for being such an incredible woman!!Branding: Ali Khazanbeik @alikhazanbeikVideo, Audio, Music production/editing: Tim ter Huurne#MovingToSpain #Immigration #Immigrant #SeniorTravel #Inspiration #Alicante #Spain #Texas #VolunteerAbroad #RheumatoidArthritis #ThePodAbroad #motherdaughter