Avsnitt
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Buckle up for a wild ride with Claudia as she unveils the truth behind Oktoberfest—the festival that turns Munich into a unique playground for tourists! While millions flock to the beer tents, locals grapple with overcrowded streets, drunken revelers, and the commercialization of their beloved tradition. In this eye-opening episode, you'll hear firsthand accounts of Munich residents who flee the city or barricade themselves in their homes. Discover why a simple stroll to work can feel like navigating a horror movie, and learn about the cultural clash that turns authentic Bavarian spirit into a carnival of costumes. Prepare to rethink your Oktoberfest experience as this episode reveals the sobering truth behind the Lederhosen, Steins, and Pretzels.
YouTube Oktoberfest Walk-through
Keywords: Oktoberfest, Munich, beer festival, local perspective, tourism impact, cultural appropriation, overcrowding, commercializationSound Bites
"Oktoberfest is a fascinating cultural phenomenon.""Many Munich residents flee from Oktoberfest.""It's like a huge party in your living room."
#Oktoberfest #Munich #BeerFestival #TravelPodcast #CulturalInsights #OverHereOverThere #GermanCulture #TouristTrap #LocalPerspective #BehindTheScenes -
BBC Radio Kent presenter Anna Cookson and 'Over Here, Over There' podcast co-host Dan Harris discuss the first televised debate between US presidential candidates Kamala Harris and Donald Trump. Dan comments on the clash over immigration, abortion, and the economy. Kamala Harris criticized Trump for his ego-driven approach and lack of focus on the needs of the American people. Trump criticized American military aid to Ukraine and accused Harris of having no economic plans. Overall, Dan concludes that Harris came out on top, winning over independent and undecided voters. The debate could have a significant impact on the polls, especially with endorsements from celebrities like Taylor Swift. It is uncertain if there will be more debates leading up to the election.
KeywordsUS presidential debate, Kamala Harris, Donald Trump, immigration, abortion, economy, independent voters, Taylor Swift endorsement
The first televised debate between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump was fiery and focused on issues like immigration, abortion, and the economy.Harris criticized Trump for his ego-driven approach and lack of focus on the needs of the American people.Trump criticized American military aid to Ukraine and accused Harris of having no economic plans.Harris came out on top, winning over independent and undecided voters.Endorsements from celebrities like Taylor Swift can have a significant impact on the polls.It is uncertain if there will be more debates leading up to the election.
TakeawaysSound Bites
"Vice President Harris called the former president a laughing stock on the world stage.""I believe you deserve a president who actually puts you first.""That war would have never happened." -
Saknas det avsnitt?
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Claudia flips the script to highlight what makes Europeans stand out in the US. From childhood wonder at green road signs and skyscrapers to adult realities of being constantly recognized as European, it’s a wild ride. Accents, non-Hollywood teeth, and confusion over American coffee sizes are dead giveaways. Metric system struggles, tipping etiquette, and small talk woes add to the fun. Spotting a European? Look for someone squinting at grocery labels or fumbling with cash. Be kind and offer a good espresso—they're navigating a land where football means two things! Tune into Claudia's insightful and entertaining perspective and add your feedback below or on our website: overhereoverthere.org.
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Summary
Co-hosts Claudia Koestler and Dan Harris discuss Democrat US Presidential nominee Kamala Harris's selection of Tim Walz, Governor of Minnesota, as her Vice President running mate for the November 2024 General Election. They explore his background, communication skills, and rapid rise in the selection process. The conversation also touches on the importance of the Vice President's role on the ticket, the potential impact of the pick on voters, and the role of the Vice President in representing the country abroad. Claudia and Dan contrast the two Vice President running mates, Tim Walz and JD Vance, the Republican running mate, and the authenticity of the candidates.
keywords
Tim Walz, vice presidential candidate, Democratic Party, communication skills, campaign, weird, impact, voters, vice president, representation, authenticity
Tim Walz, the Governor of Minnesota, has been selected as the vice presidential candidate for the Democratic Party.His background as a school teacher, football coach, military veteran, long tenure in Congress and as Governor of Minnesota, along with his communication skills, make him a formidable candidate.The use of the term 'weird' by Tim Walz in the campaign has gained attention and resonated with anti-Trump voters.The selection of the Vice Presidential candidate is important as it reflects the party's platform and how the ticket plan and party will govern if elected.Tim Walz's authenticity and relatability are seen as strengths compared to JD Vance, the Republican running mate.
takeawaysSound Bites
"Walz brought the term 'weird' into the election campaign.""He's about 60 years old and looks robust. He looks like an all-around American from the Midwest." -
Summary
'Over Here, Over There' podcast cohost Claudia Koestler explores recent comments of Republican Vice Presidential candidate JD Vance regarding his belief that a woman's worth is tied to her role as a mother. Claudia discusses the harmful effects of this belief and emphasizes the intrinsic value of every person. She highlights the importance of respecting women's choices and autonomy and addresses the double standard and deep-rooted sexism in judging women based on their decision to have children. Claudia concludes by emphasizing that every individual's worth transcends societal expectations and JD Vance isn't qualified to represent anyone with his stated belief.
Keywords
woman's worth, motherhood, autonomy, sexism, judgment, societal expectations
A woman's worth is not determined by her ability or choice to have children.Respecting women's choices and autonomy is crucial for a fair and equitable society.Judging women based on their decision to have children is a double standard and highlights deep-rooted sexism.Every individual's worth transcends traditional and limiting societal expectations.
TakeawaysSound Bites
"How can it be that some still hold onto a belief that a woman's worth is tied to her role as a mother?""Respecting women's choices is crucial for a fair and equitable society, isn't it?""The notion that women without children are less valuable is misogyny that seeks to control and diminish women." -
Summary
In this episode, Claudia Köstler discusses President Biden's announcement to step down as the Democratic nominee in 2024 and what that means for the U.S. and the rest of the world. She expresses her love for America but also raises concerns about the political landscape and the recent happenings. Claudia emphasizes the importance of the upcoming American federal election and the choice between continuing the constitutional republic or voting for an authoritarian regime. She discusses the lack of a succession plan within the Democratic Party and suggests that Kamala Harris should take over as the presidential candidate. Claudia highlights the need for someone to build bridges and bring people together, and she believes that Kamala Harris, as a woman and a black woman, is the ideal candidate to do so.
Keywords
President Biden, Democratic nominee, U.S. politics, American federal election, succession plan, Kamala Harris, political landscape, authoritarian regime, constitutional republic, building bridges, inclusivity, Kamala Harris as presidential candidate
Takeaways
President Biden's announcement to step down as the Democratic nominee in 2024 has created uncertainty and tension in the political landscape.The upcoming American federal election is crucial in determining the direction the country will take.The Democratic Party lacks a succession plan, and Kamala Harris should be considered as the presidential candidate.There is a need for someone to build bridges and bring people together, and Kamala Harris, as a woman and a black woman, is well-suited for this role.
"Dear USA, we gotta talk about your political landscape and the recent happenings.""The Democrats have not worked well in the past. They have failed to start a succession plan two years ago.""Let Kamala Harris take over the race and get you, this lighthouse of democracy and freedom, into the open, inclusive, but orderly modern times where you belong."
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Summary
Dan Harris, political and current affairs commentator and co-host of the 'Over Here, Over There' podcast discusses the anxiety surrounding the upcoming 2024 presidential election in November and the potential impact on democracy. Dan focuses on the US presidential primary system and the concerns about President Biden's health and candidacy, particularly his debate performance on 27 June. He also references Hemingway's 'The Old Man and the Sea' to illustrate the challenges faced by Biden. The importance of finding a strong candidate to win in 2024 and carry on as the incumbent in 2028 is vital for preserving democracy. Dan's monologue is introduced and concluded by his podcast co-host colleague Claudia Koestler.
Keywords
anxiety, elections, 2024, democracy, primary system, President Biden, candidacy, Hemingway, 'The Old Man and the Sea', strong candidate, Project 2025
There is growing anxiety about the upcoming elections in 2024 and their impact on democracy.The primary system in the US and the selection of presidential candidates is discussed.There are concerns about President Biden's candidacy and ability to win the November presidential Election.The conversation references Hemingway's 'The Old Man and the Sea' to illustrate the challenges faced by Biden.Finding a strong candidate to win in 2024 and maintaining the incumbency going into the 2028 presidential race is crucial for preserving democracy.
TakeawaySound Bites
"There is a feral feeling and anxiety that has been building, I'm sorry to say, for a while about 2024.""It's difficult to see him reaching the Democratic nomination in a healthy enough state to be a viable candidate.""Nor can it be for democracy in the US, the leading democracy in the world. The stakes are too high.""We need a candidate to win in 2024 and, I can’t emphasize this enough, (and carry on) with the crucial advantages of incumbency in 2028. -
Interviewer: BBC Radio Kent Host Mike Ziolek; Guest: Over Here, Over There Podcast Co-Host Dan Harris
SummaryDuring a rally, shots were fired at former President Donald Trump, resulting in a pause in the presidential race. President Biden condemned the attack and called for a cooling down of the political rhetoric. The details of the incident are still emerging, including the motives of the lone gunman. There is speculation that the attempt on Trump's life may increase his popularity among his base, but the reaction of middle ground voters in swing states remains to be seen. The incident highlights the need for a change in public discourse and increased emphasis on civics education.
Keywords
shooting, Donald Trump, presidential race, political rhetoric, public discourse, swing states
Takeaways
Shots were fired at former President Donald Trump during a rally, causing a pause in the presidential race.President Biden condemned the attack and called for a cooling down of the political rhetoric.The motives of the lone gunman are still unknown, and the incident highlights the need for increased security measures.The incident may reinforce Trump's popularity among his base, but the reaction of middle-ground voters in swing states is uncertain.There is a need for a change in public discourse and increased emphasis on civics education to address the underlying issues.Sound Bites
"Shots were fired at the Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump while he was speaking at a rally in Pennsylvania over the weekend.""President Biden condemned the attack. There is no place in America for this kind of violence, for any violence ever, period.""The incident highlights the need for a change in public discourse and increased emphasis on civics education."Overhereoverthere.org
BBC Radio Kent -
Summary
In this episode, Dan Harris and Claudia Koestler discuss the recent UK election results and their potential global implications. They highlight the seamless transition of power between the Conservatives and Labour as a testament to the effectiveness of democracy and the reasons behind Labour's landslide victory and the Conservatives' disastrous performance. They also discuss the rise of third parties and the need for a fairer system of seat distribution (e.g. proportional representation). The conversation explores the impact of the UK election on the country's role in Europe and its relationship with the US. The episode concludes with the importance of active and engaged governance in shaping the UK's objectives and global relationships.
Keywords
UK election, global implications, democracy, transition of power, Labour, Conservatives, third parties, electoral distribution, UK role in Europe, UK-US relationship
Takeaways
The UK election results demonstrate the effectiveness of democracy and the seamless transition of power between political parties.Labour's landslide victory and the Conservatives' poor performance reflect the public's dissatisfaction with the Conservative Party's governance and handling of Brexit.The rise of third parties, such as the Liberal Democrats and the Reform Party, highlights the need for a fairer system of constituency seat distribution.The UK election may impact the country's role in Europe and its relationship with the EU, depending on the approach taken by the new Labour government.The UK election is unlikely to have a significant influence on the upcoming US election, as the US is more focused on its own internal political dynamics.The UK's active and engaged governance will shape its objectives and relationships on the global stage.As a bonus to this discussion, we have added our theme song, Can You Increase Democracy by '10%' by The Pleasure Bombs in full at the end of the episode. A cracking tune. Enjoy!
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In this conversation, Dan Harris and Claudia Koestler discuss the state of the U.S. presidential election and the Trump-Biden debate from the perspective of Europe. They explore how closely Germany and the UK follow the election and the media's response to the debate. They also discuss the importance of the election for the world and the potential impact of a Trump or Biden presidency. The conversation touches on the age issue of Biden, the values represented by the two candidates and their parties, and the potential outcome if Germany and the UK had the right to vote in the U.S. election. They also discuss the need to consider more than just one performance or issue when making a decision and the importance of competence in a leader. The conversation concludes with a discussion about Biden's struggles and challenges at this crucial time of his presidency and the existential threat to democracy, drawing the apt analogy of Hemingway's 'Old Man and the Sea'.
As a bonus to this discussion, we have added our theme song, Can You Increase Democracy by '10%' by The Pleasure Bombs in full at the end of the episode. A cracking tune. Enjoy!
Here are some key takeaways from the episode:
· Germany and the UK closely follow the U.S. presidential election and the Trump-Biden debate.· The outcome of the U.S. election is of tremendous importance to the world, especially to allies in Europe and Western countries.
· The media's response to the debate focused more on Biden's performance rather than the content and important issues at stake.
· The age issue of Biden has become a central focus, overshadowing other important issues and values represented by the candidates and their parties.
· It is important to consider more than just one performance or issue when deciding an election.
· Competence should be a key factor in choosing a leader, regardless of age.
· If Germany had the right to vote in the U.S. election, it is likely that a majority would vote for Biden, aligning with shared values and democratic principles.
· Biden's performance in the debate has raised concerns and may have affected his standing in swing states.
· The analogy of Hemingway's 'The Old Man and the Sea' represents the dilemma of whether Biden should hang on or let go of his pursuit of the presidency.
Overhereoverthere.org. -
We're tackling the buzzworthy topic of cannabis legalization in Germany. Grab your preferred chill beverage and join Claudia! Cannabis in Germany has a long history, from its hemp heyday in the 1920s to its criminalization in the 1970s. Fast forward to 2017, medical cannabis was legalized, and as of April 2024, small quantities for personal use are allowed. The new law aims to curb the black market and ensure quality, but don't expect Dutch-style weed shops—Germany's sticking to cannabis social clubs and other limited channels. Opinions are split, but one thing's clear: times are changing, and so might our society. What about Claudia? Does she avail herself of this new freedom? Tune in and find out.
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In the world of gift-giving, tales of the unexpected abound. From mysterious boxes that promise the world but deliver only disappointment to DIY disasters crafted with love (and lots of glue), each present tells a story. But fear not, says Claudia, even the most misguided gifts come from a place of good intentions. So, when you receive that garden gnome on a unicycle or a box of stallion semen, grin and bear it, and embrace the hilarity of the worst gifts imaginable.
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Claudia Koestler humorously explores cultural quirks Europeans find peculiar about Americans, from overt patriotism and effusive customer service to long commutes and ice-filled drinks. She discusses litigious tendencies, public bathroom privacy, and circumcision norms, highlighting cultural differences while inviting listeners to reflect and share their perspectives on these intriguing observations.
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Farmers strikes are prevalent throughout the EU, some of which can have a distinct impact on a country's economy and across society. In Germany, recent farmer protests have caused chaos, blocking roads and factories. In this podcast episode, Over Here, Over There' co-host Claudia Koestler provides an in-depth explanation of the ongoing farmers' protests in her country. Learn about the issues, demands, and troubles as farmers voice their concerns and fight for their rights - while some take intolerable measures and deepen the division of society. Stay informed on the background and latest developments surrounding this new and significant movement in Germany.
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Having something for long a time one could start thinking, rightly or wrongly, that it is yours. The Elgin Marbles, also known as the Parthenon Marbles, are Greek sculptures that have been housed in the British Museum for more than 200 years. As Claudia explains, the Marbles were taken controversially from the Parthenon in Athens by Lord Elgin in the early 19th century. It is believed they were forcibly removed and sold to the British government, sparking a debate that continues to this day. This is a classic 'Over Here, Over There' issue about how the Greek and British governments each view this intractable matter. But let's leave it to Claudia to offer a solution and tell us why it is important not only to these two countries but to world heritage.
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Travel broadens the mind, they say. Combined with study, it provides an incredible opportunity for personal development and forms a powerful differentiator in one's career and life, including the benefits to one's own country and the international community. However, to many students, studying abroad may seem like an unobtainable goal because of the perceived cost and challenges. In this episode, hosts Claudia Koestler and Dan Harris discuss the benefits and the 'how to's' of studying abroad with Dr. Jonah Otto, International Relations Director, Research and Teaching Fellow, and Director of Internationalization Development and Incoming Exchange at the University of Augsburg in Germany. They discuss many of the questions that weigh on students' minds when considering making the seemingly big decision to go abroad. Dr. Otto dispels the view that studying abroad is only for the affluent and high achievers and that any student in good standing has the opportunity to study abroad with only marginal additional cost, if any. As Dr. Otto explains, there is more financial and educational support available than students may realize to make studying overseas a reality. This episode is packed with useful information, both practical and inspirational, on the value international education brings to both students and society, which is not to be missed. Enjoy!
Dr. Jonah Otto's profile:
LinkedIn
ResearchGate
University of Augsburg
University's International office
Faculty's international office
Study Abroad Programs:
Study in Germany
Erasmus
Fulbright
State University of New York at Brockport, Center for Global Education & Engagement
London School of Economics and Political Science -
The rise of extremist movements throughout the world is nothing new. However, their power and influence in Western democracies is particularly startling, especially in the bastion of such a stable democracy as Germany, whose political and economic strength so many throughout Europe rely on. This is why it is hard to fathom, Claudia Koestler states, why a critical mass of her fellow countrymen and women are turning to right-wing parties like the AfD (Alternative für Deutschland ). It's easy to be dismissive of such movements, but the rise of extremism has been building over the years and has now gained power and influence, becoming a fixture on the political landscape at the local, regional, and national levels. The alarm bells are now ringing and millions have taken to the streets to support their democratic way of life.
But are the recent protests against the AfD throughout Germany going to be effective in turning back the tide of right-wing extremism? Hear how Claudia questions the motives and efficacy of these demonstrations and who they're aimed at. While it may not change the minds of many die-hard AfD supporters, Claudia argues that it will send an important signal across Germany and the world that values, freedom, and democracy are the core of Western society and worth standing up for. -
Tune in to hear how different Monday mornings are from your town or city as Claudia makes her way to work in her Alpine splendor in Bavaria. Some things may be familiar, but the breathtaking landscape certainly helps distract her from the Monday morning blues. So, if you're listening to this on your way to work in Los Angeles, Buenos Aires, New York City, Berlin, or Sydney, just imagine - with Claudia's help - what it would be like to be among the snow-capped mountains, frosty air, and pristine lakes of this beautiful Alpine region. But remember to keep your eyes on the road! Enjoy.
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The death of Russian political activist and freedom rights campaigner Alexei Navalny stunned the world for its open brazenness at the hands of Vladimir Putin and his government. There is little doubt that Putin was responsible for Navalny's death, although a Russian court of law will no doubt never adjudicate on the manner. Navalny's death leaves Russia without a significant opposition leader, but how much of an impact will it have on Putin's regime and Russia's relationship, if there is still one that can be called that, with the US and its Western allies? It is not only a great tragedy for his immediate family, friends and supporters but also serves as an inflexion point at a time of heightened tensions between Russia and the West, with the prospects of victory for either side in Russia's war with Ukraine still in the balance.
Over Here, Over There is honoured to discuss the impact of Navalny's death on Russia and the West with Dr Neil MacFarlane, former Head of Politics and International Relations at Oxford University and an expert on Russian foreign policy and the regional dynamics of the former Soviet Union. Dr. MacFarlane's academic career included positions in the United States and Canada. Beyond Oxford, among many other posts, he was a Faculty Associate of the Geneva Centre for Security Policy and held a visiting appointment at the College of Europe in Bruges.
Please join us for an engaging and informative conversation with Dr MacFarlane and insight into what lies ahead for Putin and his regime's relationship with the West. -
'Life is too short to learn German', said Oscar Wilde. And even for a native German speaker, it does have its challenges. Over Here, Over There podcast co-host Claudia Koestler takes you through the quirky nuances and daunting tongue-twisters that give credence to Wilde's perspective. Still, it can be rather amusing to hear a German word that is as long as a football pitch or another that captures the tone and feeling that only the preciseness that the German language can do. Enjoy (Genießen)!
Here are some of the German words that Claudia mentions that are particularly challenging for non-native and, in some cases, native speakers alike.
Ulpe(germanised Icelandic for jacket)
Zwanzig (which means twenty)
Brötchen (bread roll)
Schleswig Holstein (a federal state in Germany)
Quietscheente (rubber duck, Squeaky duck)
Quietscheentchen (its diminutive form)
Streichholzschächtelchen (little matchbox, but literally translated as draw wood along a little box)
Warmduscher (literally "warm or hot showerer"; figuratively, it refers to those who don't want to extend themselves beyond their comfort zone; also, 'wimp')
Schattenparker (similar to Warmduscher, literally 'Shadow Parker')
Weichei (similar to Warmduscher, literally 'soft egg')
Hüftgold (meaning hip gold. A word to describe excess fat in the hip area.
Verschlimmbesserung (an intended improvement that only make things worse)
Bundesausbildungsförderungsgesetz (Federal Training Assistance Act)
Personenkraftwagenhaftpflichtversicherung: (passenger car liability insurance)
Grundstücksverkehrsgenehmigungszuständigkeitsübertragungsverordnung (real estate transfer authorization ordinance)
Nahrungsmittelunverträglichkeit (food intolerance)
Fremdschämen (a feeling of embarrassment for another person)
Auspuffrohr (exhaust pipe)
Donaudampfschifffahrtselektrizitätenhauptbetriebswerkbauunterbeamtengesellschaft (Danube steamship electricity main works construction sub-civil servant company)
Eichhörnchen (squirrel)
Oachkatzlschwoaf (Bavarian dialect version of a specific part of the squirrel recently voted the most unpronounceable word in the world, which translates to tail of a squirrel)
English words that Claudia and other Germans find hard to pronounce (and English speakers to spell!):
Spontaneity
Phenomenon
Worcester
Worcestershire (as in the England county and sauce) - Visa fler
