Hier & There. The podcast of the Germanic-American Institute (GAI Podcast)

Claudia, Katrin & Michael embarked on one of the more challenging episodes, discussing the differences and similarities between European and US elections. The election cycles, how many parties, what's at stake, how the news reports and distorts, and more... Katrin invites to another semi-deep dive into German grammar - enjoy your crash course - and see us for more at one of our many German classes at the GAI! ###  We cordially invite you on the inside, to join us as we share insights into German grammar, the German cultural experience, we’ll look at current topics, and we’ll let you know about all the events that we are involved in, and you can participate in. If you'd like us to answer any questions you may have about our content, history, grammar, etc. please email us at language@gai-mn.org and we'll include your request in the next episode.

Join us as Claudia, Bastian, and Michael discuss the 5th Season in Germany and Austria. Karneval is an annual focal point for many Europeans and celebrated for several months - the 5th season. We're comparing notes from Southern and Central Germany, with some of the Austrian experiences during this season. ### Also, coming up at the GAI, on February 8th, our in-house Karneval, including the GAI's Amateur Drag Competiton. For every competition entry (entries are free) the Germanic-American Institute will donate $50 to JustUs Health, an organization that works for equitable health care access for folks who are living with HIV and the LGBTQ+ community. Bar tips will also be donated to JustUs Health. Find all the information here ### Idioms - phrases that are difficult to translate, sometimes they make no sense at all when translated verbatim, so we're trying to unlock the mystique behind common German idioms.  ### As always, if you have any suggestions for topics or guests, please let us know - we love to answer your content questions! Email us at: language@gai-mn.org and we'll include your request in the next episode. :) ### Have a happy Karneval - 5th season, and we'll see you on the 8th! 

Welcome to the second season of the GAI Podcast.  The "triumphant trio" is back! In this episode, we're taking a stroll down memory lane, how we celebrated New Year's Eve in Germany and Austria, and how it may have changed over the years.  Katrin dives into German articles. Everything is genderized, and most German students are wondering if there's an actual shortcut. Listen in... (here's a Google link for some visual representations to articles) Lastly, the GAI Haus is about to raise the roof! It's carnival season, and we'll behave like it. Check our website for more info: www.gai-mn.org ###

The final episode of 2019, Jeana, Claudia, and Michael are summarizing the past 12 months, and what's to come in 2020. From our cultural outreach to having become an officially recognized Goethe Institute partner, numerous initiatives, you'll joins us on a quick trip down memory lane. From all of us at the GAI, enjoy a Happy Holiday season, a Happy New Year, and you'll hear from us again in January.  ### Since 1957 The Germanic American Institute has been building cultural bridges between the American Midwest and German-speaking European countries. We cordially invite you on the inside, to join us as we share insights into German grammar, the German cultural experience, we’ll look at current topics, and we’ll let you know about all the events that we are involved in, and you can participate in. If you'd like us to answer any questions you may have about our content, history, grammar, etc. please email us at: language@gai-mn.org and we'll include your request in the next episode.

Living and working or studying in the USA (or in Germany) is high on the list for many students, and frequently also a dream for many adults.  How to make the dream a reality, is the topic of conversation of a special event at the GAI: Study in Germany Info Evening on November 19, 7 - 9 pm, at the GAI's Ballroom. This is a free event and no registration is required. Read more about the event here: https://gai-mn.org/event-3611406 In this episode, we spoke with Wim, a German exchange student. What motivated him to come to the US, how did he choose his host family, and the host family him - there was a bit of a surprise in this - and what are his impressions after 2 months in the USA? Is it all he thought it would be? ---- From a technical perspective, the audio track on this recording is at times a bit choppy. I hope that this does not deter you from enjoying this episode. ~Michael ---- Since 1957 The Germanic American Institute has been building cultural bridges between the American Midwest and German-speaking European countries. We cordially invite you on the inside, to join us as we share insights into German grammar, the German cultural experience, we’ll look at current topics, and we’ll let you know about all the events that we are involved in, and you can participate in. If you'd like us to answer any questions you may have about our content, history, grammar, etc. please email us at language@gai-mn.org and we'll include your request in the next episode.

In this special episode, we recorded a live-panel, discussing the 30th anniversary of German Unity.  Please excuse the audio quality, which is at times fluctuating in volume. Such is the nature of live events.  Barbara Müller, The Honorary Consul of the Federal Republic of Germany, invited guests to a panel discussion, revisiting the Mauerfall (Fall of the Wall), what it meant for the Germans, East and West, and whether the "new normal" was all that it could have been. On the panel: Barbara Mueller, JD, Honorary Consul, Federal Republic of Germany Verena Walther, JD, Attorney Janke Agusch, German Teacher at the GAI Dr. Henning Schroeder, University of Minnesota What ensued was a lively and at times passionate discussion that covers the moment the border opened, up to what it really meant for Germans on each side of the wall. ### Since 1957 The Germanic American Institute has been building cultural bridges between the American Midwest and German-speaking European countries. We cordially invite you on the inside, to join us as we share insights into German grammar, the German cultural experience, we’ll look at current topics, and we’ll let you know about all the events that we are involved in, and you can participate in. If you'd like us to answer any questions you may have about our content, history, grammar, etc. please email us at: language@gai-mn.org and we'll include your request in the next episode.

In this episode, Claudia, Katrin, & Michael revisit the St. Paul Oktoberfest, share some of the fun and experiences we had, and marvel yet again how amazing these two days really were. Thanks again to Paulaner Bier and all the volunteers who made the SPOK even possible ~ Thank You!! Katrin dives into the GAI Library and we talk a bit about the European Reference Frame, which defines the way we teach German at the GAI. Oktober is a month of significance in Germany, and this year even moreso than in previous years. Germany celebrates the 30 year anniversary of the Mauerfall. Katrin and Claudia reminisce about their memories, and the reasonably neutral Austrian, Michael, weighs in as well. It's the memories of teenagers.  Lastly, Claudia takes you through the upcoming events at the GAI, too. #### Since 1957 The Germanic American Institute has been building cultural bridges between the American Midwest and German-speaking European countries. We cordially invite you on the inside, to join us as we share insights into German grammar, the German cultural experience, we’ll look at current topics, and we’ll let you know about all the events that we are involved in, and you can participate in. If you'd like us to answer any questions you may have about our content, history, grammar, etc. please email us at: language@gai-mn.org and we'll include your request in the next episode.

We're previewing the 2019 St. Paul Oktoberfest.  Linda (our event manager) and Joe from Paulaner talk about what you can expect from this year's event. Linda has all the details of the Oktoberfest, including how to get into the Kaiserzelt for the VIP experience, we're talking Steinheben, food, jodeling, Wunderbar Together, Vendors, and Trachten (Lederhosen & Dirndl).  Joe fills us in on the history of one of Germany's most iconic breweries, and lets us know what Paulaner brewed especially for the St. Paul Oktoberfest AND shipped all the way to the US! For more information about the event or to purchase Kaiserzelt VIP Tickets, go to: http://www.saintpauloktoberfest.org/  ### Language classes will start again after Labor Day 2019 as well - for more information, please go to: https://gai-mn.org/Language-Services and register for one of the upcoming classes.

In this episode, Michael is out of his element, and inside the Kinderstube. Meeting with the Babett (Director of the Kinderstube) and Emily (Asst. Director), we explore the Kinderstube history, why the Kinderstube is enormously beneficial for children, and what the Kinderstube can do for you, the parents. And that yes, there *might* be a waiting list - but, CALL US (651-353-5147) or email: preschool@gai-mn.org or kinderstubeadmin@gai-mn.org , and Babett or Emily will try their best to get your child registered ASAP. Thanks to the Kinderstube for hosting us for this episode! #### Since 1957 The Germanic American Institute has been building cultural bridges between the American Midwest and German-speaking European countries. We cordially invite you on the inside, to join us as we share insights into German grammar, the German cultural experience, we’ll look at current topics, and we’ll let you know about all the events that we are involved in, and you can participate in. If you'd like us to answer any questions you may have about our content, history, grammar, etc. please email us at: language@gai-mn.org and we'll include your request in the next episode.

Katrin and Michael go over a few idioms, explain what they mean, how literal translations make very little sense, and under which circumstances certain idioms can be used. Here's the list of all the idioms: Ich glaub mein Schwein pfeift (I believe my pig whistles) Das Leben ist kein Zuckerschlecken (Life is no sugar-licking) Alles in Butter (Everything is in butter) Auf dem Holzweg sein (To be on the wooden path [trail]) Sturm ist erst wenn die Schafe keine Locken mehr haben (It’s not storming until the sheep have no curls) Es ist mir Wurst (This is really just sausage to me) Du hast Tomaten auf den Augen (You have tomatoes on your eyes) [Germany “Tomate” (singular) | Austria “Paradeiser” (singular & plural) Ich glaube ich spinne (I believe I’m a spider) Ich verstehe nur Bahnhof (I only understand railway station) Du gehst mir auf den Keks (You’re getting on my cookie) Den Löffel abgeben (to hand over the spoon) Baba (Austrian “Good bye”) Ungustl (Austrian “unkempt person”) Leiwand (Austrian “super” or “cool”) We also talk about Katrin's vacation in Northern Germany, some of the do's and dont's, and how not to spend $10k getting rescued. And, we keep you updated about all the events, and start times of the classes in the fall semester, too.  ### Since 1957 The Germanic American Institute has been building cultural bridges between the American Midwest and German-speaking European countries. We cordially invite you on the inside, to join us as we share insights into German grammar, the German cultural experience, we’ll look at current topics, and we’ll let you know about all the events that we are involved in, and you can participate in. If you'd like us to answer any questions you may have about our content, history, grammar, etc. please email us at: language@gai-mn.org and we'll include your request in the next episode.

In our 61st year! Deutsche Tage (German Days) is one of the Germanic-American Institute's (GAI) longest-standing traditions and the oldest heritage festival in St. Paul. For 60 years, the GAI has shared the arts, traditions, and cuisine of the German-speaking world, and inspired thousands of Minnesotans to discover new aspects of German culture. Headlining the main stage is the Joey Johnson Band, a local trio that can polka with the best. A full schedule of entertainers include Ron Machel on accordion, the lovely Swiss Alp Horns, and concertina virtuoso Josh Eidsor.  Food and drink are the cornerstone of Deutsche Tage: There will be plenty of bratwurst, German potato salad, and sauerkraut. Drinks include Paulaner beers, Germanic wines, Jägermeister, and Apfelschorle. Dampfwerk Distilling will create a special Deutsche Tage cocktail and will have their German-style spirits for sale. Das Moderne Deutschland Traditional and modern Germany will be represented at this year’s Deutsche Tage: Environmental Pavilion: Festival-goers can learn about alternative energy, energy efficiency, and passive house design. Featuring eco-friendly invasive plant eradicators—goats from Goat Dispatch.  Modern Apprenticeship Pavilion: Learn about the German Dual Education system and local apprenticeship options, part of a larger GAI initiative highlighting German-style apprenticeships.  Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange: NOD has different programs to meet the varying desires of international students who are interested in exploring the world. For students who want a full year of study in another culture, NOD offers academic programs in both public and private schools. For those students more inclined to participate in short-term programs, NOD offers tutorials, homestays, and touring programs. Learn more at: www.nacelopendoor.org ### As always, we welcome your feedback, ideas, suggestions, and question that you'd like us to answer in one of our upcoming shows.  Thanks for tuning in!

In this episode, we'll talk about verbs, where they are positioned in a German sentence, whether there's a rule you can apply, and how to get comfortable with even the longer sentences! In part two, we'll take you on vacation. Where do we go when we go on vacation. Staycation or travel? We found interesting statistics about travel habits. Also, don't forget: June 8 & 9 (2019) are the Deutsche Tage at the GAI on Summit Ave. Stop by and enjoy a cold one, outstanding food, and visit with our event partners, teachers, GAI staff and members, or simply say "Guten Tag" to anyone you'll meet! Special thanks to our event sponsors: Aldi (find all MSP Aldi locations here) and Paulaner (learn all about Paulaner here) ### Since 1957 The Germanic American Institute has been building cultural bridges between the American Midwest and German-speaking European countries. We cordially invite you on the inside, to join us as we share insights into German grammar, the German cultural experience, we’ll look at current topics, and we’ll let you know about all the events that we are involved in, and you can participate in. If you'd like us to answer any questions you may have about our content, history, grammar, etc. please email us at: language@gai-mn.org and we'll include your request in the next episode.

Mark the dates: The 2019 Deutsche Tage: Saturday, June 8, 11 AM–10 PM Sunday, June 9, 11 AM–5 PM At the Germanic-American Institute Haus and grounds We welcome Linda, the chief event planner of Deutsche Tage, to our studio. We're taking a deep-dive into the event, sharing some of the vendors, food, and entertainment you can look forward to! ### In our 61st year! Deutsche Tage (German Days) is one of the Germanic-American Institute's (GAI) longest-standing traditions and the oldest heritage festival in St. Paul. For 60 years, the GAI has shared the arts, traditions, and cuisine of the German-speaking world, and inspired thousands of Minnesotans to discover new aspects of German culture. Headlining the main stage is the Joey Johnson Band, a local trio that can polka with the best. A full schedule of entertainers include Ron Machel on accordion, the lovely Swiss Alp Horns, and concertina virtuoso Josh Eidsor.  Food and drink are the cornerstone of Deutsche Tage: There will be plenty of bratwurst, German potato salad, and sauerkraut. Drinks include Paulaner beers, Germanic wines, Jägermeister, and Apfelschorle. Dampfwerk Distilling will create a special Deutsche Tage cocktail and will have their German-style spirits for sale. The GAI Podcast will also make an appearance. We'll have our portable studio setup out in the open, ready for you to sit down with us, talk about your impressions of Deutsche Tage, or ask us any questions you have on your mind. 

In this episode, Dr. Katrin covers the grammar magic that are Wechselpräpositionen, and then we invite you on an audio-holiday to how we celebrate Easter and Pfingsten.  As always, if you have any questions or would like to suggest a topic or guest, please email us at language@gai-mn.org ### Since 1957 The Germanic American Institute has been building cultural bridges between the American Midwest and German-speaking European countries. We cordially invite you on the inside, to join us as we share insights into German grammar, the German cultural experience, we’ll look at current topics, and we’ll let you know about all the events that we are involved in, and you can participate in. If you'd like us to answer any questions you may have about our content, history, grammar, etc. please email us at: language@gai-mn.org and we'll include your request in the next episode.

In this episode, we welcome the GAI's own Bastian, who is a native Rheinländer, and a GAI teacher.  Bastian takes us on an audio tour through the Rheinland, touching on the world famous Cathedral of Cologne and the city of Düsseldorf. We're talking about dialects, food, beer brewing, and why there's a "right and wrong" side of the city to live at! Bastian's audio tour also has an accompanying in-person presentation at the GAI, where we serve authentic dishes, wine, and beer. Get the tickets to the event: https://gai-mn.org/event-3336297 ### If you have any topics you'd like us to talk about, or guests you'd like to suggest, please email language@gai-mn.org