Learn German with podcasts
If you want to learn a new language and use it in everyday life, you have to train your listening comprehension. There is probably no format more suitable for this than podcasts. Numerous audio offerings enable German learners of all levels to practice for free and on the move. As part of the Goethe-Institut’s DEINE BAND project, the ok.danke.tschüss group provides music for language lessons. The podcast “Slowly Spoken News” from the German international broadcaster Deutsche Welle is aimed at advanced learners from language level B2. Current news that is presented slowly and clearly not only improves language skills, but also provides information about current events in Germany.
Find out about Germany
Anyone who would like to find out more about Germany beyond the news will quickly find a format that suits their interests in the diverse podcast landscape. An episode of the podcast “Radio Spaetkauf”, which was created in collaboration with the European Academy Berlin, is about graffiti and street art in the capital Berlin. The format “INTO GERMANY!” from the state economic development agency Germany Trade & Invest is a German business podcast in English. Every month, a team of journalists and experts highlight interesting stories from Europe’s largest economy.
From expat to expat
What seems normal to Germans is often something special from the perspective of expats: from everyday bureaucracy to wine hikes to the linguistic politeness of Siezen. “The Germany Experience” is about life in Germany, seen from the perspective of newcomers. In addition to advice and tips, there are funny stories about the differences and similarities between different cultures. In the show “Why Germany?”, expats living in Germany tell their very personal stories in an interview format.
Podcasts from Germany: A Glimpse into German Audio Culture
Podcasts have become a significant part of modern media consumption in Germany. With a diverse and evolving landscape, German podcasts cover an extensive range of topics, from culture, news, and education to entertainment and niche interests. As the medium has gained popularity, podcasts have evolved into a primary source of information, entertainment, and inspiration for listeners across the country. Whether in German or from Germany-based creators, these podcasts offer valuable insights into German life and culture.
1. The Rise of Podcasts in Germany
The podcast scene in Germany has grown exponentially in recent years. As of 2023, nearly 30 million people in Germany listen to podcasts regularly, a significant increase compared to previous years. The country’s podcast market is characterized by a mix of established media houses and independent creators. Major players such as Der Spiegel, Süddeutsche Zeitung, and Deutschlandfunk have embraced the format, creating high-quality, engaging content that resonates with a wide range of listeners.
The rise of smartphones and streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Deezer has made podcasts easily accessible to a global audience. The German podcast market has adapted to this shift, offering a variety of content in both German and English, attracting listeners not only from Germany but also from German-speaking communities worldwide.
2. Popular German Podcasts
Here are some of the most notable German podcasts across different genres:
True Crime and Investigative Podcasts
- “Verbrechen”
Produced by Der Spiegel, Verbrechen is one of the most popular true crime podcasts in Germany. Each episode delves into a real-life crime, exploring the case in detail with a focus on psychological and societal factors. The stories are gripping, and the podcast’s investigative nature provides listeners with a deep dive into criminal justice in Germany and beyond. - “Der Fall”
Hosted by journalists from Süddeutsche Zeitung, Der Fall examines specific criminal cases, often involving unsolved mysteries or controversial trials. The podcast not only covers the events but also analyzes the cultural, political, and social implications of the cases.
Culture and Society
- “Fest und Flauschig”
This podcast is hosted by two of Germany’s most famous entertainers, Jan Böhmermann and Olli Schulz. Fest und Flauschig mixes humor, deep discussions, and cultural commentary. The show covers everything from current events to personal anecdotes, and it has become one of the most popular and influential podcasts in the country. The dynamic between the two hosts and their unfiltered conversations has earned them a loyal following. - “Das Politikteil”
For listeners interested in politics, Das Politikteil provides a satirical yet informative take on the latest political developments in Germany and the world. Hosted by Zeit Online, the podcast presents complex political issues in an accessible and engaging manner. It’s an essential listen for those who want to stay up-to-date with the political landscape without feeling overwhelmed. - “Deutschland3000”
Hosted by Eva Schulz, Deutschland3000 is a podcast that discusses political and social issues affecting Germany, often with a focus on youth and activism. The podcast features interviews with young politicians, activists, and creatives, making it a fresh and insightful take on the future of Germany.
Education and Personal Growth
- “Lernen macht Spaß”
This educational podcast is perfect for anyone looking to boost their skills or knowledge. It covers a wide range of topics from self-improvement and learning strategies to discussions on psychology and personal growth. Lernen macht Spaß focuses on making learning enjoyable and practical, offering tips that listeners can apply to both their personal and professional lives. - “Warum? – Die Welt erklären”
Produced by Süddeutsche Zeitung, this podcast tackles big questions about the world, science, and society. Each episode is dedicated to answering complex questions, explaining phenomena in a simple, understandable manner. It’s a perfect blend of education and entertainment for curious minds.
Business and Technology
- “The Digital Nomads”
This podcast explores the world of digital nomads—the people who live and work while traveling around the globe. Hosted by David and Jonathan, the show discusses how to build a location-independent career, offering advice on entrepreneurship, remote work, and travel. It’s a go-to for anyone looking to break free from traditional office life and start a new adventure. - “Digitale Leute”
Digitale Leute covers the world of digital business, technology, and innovation. Hosted by Jörg Langer and Matthias Saad, it features interviews with industry leaders and experts. This podcast is great for listeners interested in the latest trends in the tech world, particularly digital transformation, startups, and entrepreneurship.
Comedy and Entertainment
- “Herrengedeck”
A comedy podcast hosted by comedians Maxim & Enissa. They tackle a wide variety of light-hearted topics, often discussing pop culture, social trends, and their own experiences. Herrengedeck is known for its casual, unpretentious style and is a great option for those who want a fun and easy listen. - “Radio Gong – Der Lachkoffer”
As the name suggests, this podcast is all about comedy. Der Lachkoffer is hosted by radio personalities from Radio Gong and features skits, funny stories, and humorous commentary. It’s ideal for listeners who want to unwind and have a good laugh.
3. The Future of Podcasts in Germany
As the popularity of podcasts continues to rise, the future of the medium in Germany looks promising. The development of new formats, including serialized storytelling and interactive podcasts, is expected to engage a wider audience. With the growth of niche podcasts focusing on specific topics such as sustainability, health, and local communities, there’s a clear trend towards more personalized content.
Moreover, the rise of podcasts as a tool for education and social change is notable. Many podcasts in Germany focus on critical topics like climate change, social justice, and mental health, helping to raise awareness and spark conversations on important issues.
Conclusion
Podcasts in Germany are a diverse and dynamic medium that caters to a wide range of interests. Whether you are into true crime, comedy, politics, or personal development, the German podcast scene has something for everyone. With the continuous evolution of the medium, podcasts are becoming an integral part of how people consume information, entertain themselves, and engage with culture in Germany. As the industry grows, it will undoubtedly continue to shape the way listeners in Germany and beyond experience audio content.
