Wait, what’s happening here?
In this episode of GTFO pod, hosts Caroline Donahue and Tara Calliman discuss the complexities and challenges of living as immigrants in Germany and Ireland. Having lived abroad for over five years, they reflect on cultural shifts, political changes, and their experiences with the local political systems. They delve into topics such as voting rights, the rise of nationalist sentiments, and the impact of climate crises and immigration policies. The duo also shares their personal journeys of adapting to new cultural norms and becoming involved in their local communities. Despite acknowledging their imperfect understanding, they emphasize the importance of staying informed and engaged in political discourse, even in a foreign country.
Episode Takeaways
Both hosts reflect on their experiences living abroad for over five years.
Navigating cultural shifts can be challenging for long-term residents.
Political engagement is complicated for residents without citizenship.
Germany allows permanent residents to vote in local elections, unlike the US.
Community engagement is crucial for immigrants to invest in their new home.
Acceptance of local customs can lead to a more fulfilling life abroad.
Conversations with locals can bridge cultural gaps and foster understanding.
The hosts share the importance of being politically aware as immigrants.
They acknowledge the complexities of discussing political issues in their adopted countries.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Hosts' Check-In
00:09 Living Abroad: Initial Experiences and Challenges
01:42 Voting Rights and Political Engagement
04:38 Recent Elections and Political Climate
10:29 Nationalism and Immigration Issues
21:33 Adapting to a New Culture
23:40 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
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