cultureXchange

30/10/2024

Lost in Translation?

We’ve all been there—whether at the airport, starting a new job, or even just trying to make friends in a new country. Breaking through communication barriers can be challenging, but it’s easier than you think!

In our latest cultureXchange podcast episode, we sit down with Arjan Verdooren, co-author of Diversity Competence: Cultures Don’t Meet, People Do. Arjan shares practical strategies for navigating cultural differences and building better connections wherever you are.

Key Tips for Breaking Through Barriers:

• Acknowledge Differences without judgment to foster understanding.
• Ask Open Questions to gain insights into others’ perspectives.
• Adapt Your Communication Style to connect more meaningfully.

🎧 Tune in to the full episode on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite platform! Link in bio.

E24: # Cultures Don’t Meet People Do with Arjan Verdooren

Listen here: https://culturexchange.podigee.io/24-new-episode

15/10/2024

🌍 What is Diversity Competence?

It’s the ability to make “strangeness” in interactions feel normal, whether it arises from cultural differences or unique perspectives. This definition comes from our podcast guest, Arjan Verdooren, co-author of Cultures Don’t Meet, People Do.

Are you ready to embrace diversity and improve your communication in a global setting?

🎧 Listen to our latest cultureXchange podcast episode and discover how you can develop diversity competence in your everyday life. Now streaming on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more!

E24: Cultures Don’t Meet, People Do with Arjan Verdooren

Listen here:
https://culturexchange.podigee.io/24-new-episode

cultureXchange

07/10/2024

🌍 Cultures Don’t Meet, People Do! 🎧

How can we move beyond cultural differences to create genuine connections? In the latest episode of the cultureXchange podcast, we explore this powerful idea with Arjan Verdooren, a Diversity and Inclusion expert and co-author of the book Diversity Competence: Cultures Don’t Meet, People Do!

Join co-hosts Frauke and Marie-Christine as they discuss with Arjan how personal relationships are the key to successful intercultural communication in a diverse world.

✨ Key Takeaways:
• Shifting from cultural norms to meaningful personal connections
• Essential skills for thriving in international and multicultural settings
• How the TOPOI model can improve communication in diverse environments

How do you build personal connections in your multicultural interactions?

🔗 Tune in to the full episode on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more! Link in comments.

Link: https://culturexchange.podigee.io/24-new-episode

30/09/2024

Happy ! 🎙️
We're celebrating International Podcast Day and our second year as podcasters! A huge thank you to all our incredible guests and listeners for your amazing support.

Check out some of the best moments from cultureXchange Season One, featuring inspiring guests like Ariane Sommer Superhumanize Jennifer Shinkai Lilo Baier American International Women's Club of Düsseldorf e.V. International Women in Business Düsseldorf ICUnet.Group Anna C. Seidel
International School of Düsseldorf Jo Parfitt Colleen Reichrath-Smith Coachingwiththeflo Florence Reisch
Ruth E. Van Reken Author Page of Mariam Navaid Ottimofiore Dr. Anisha Abraham and many more..

Tune in and listen now-don't miss out on the insights and stories that made Season One so special!

Hosts: Frauke Bender & Marie-Christine
Dobro

https://culturexchange.podigee.io/

27/09/2024

“When we focus on differences, that’s exactly what we’ll see.” 🌍✨

In Episode 24 of the , we sit down with Arjan Verdooren, co-author of Diversity Competence: Cultures Don’t Meet, People Do. Together, we explore how shifting the focus from cultural differences to personal connections can transform the way we communicate and build relationships in today’s multicultural world.

Looking to build bridges instead of walls? 🔗✨ https://culturexchange.podigee.io/24-new-episode

🎧 Listen now to Episode 24: Cultures Don’t Meet, People Do, and discover practical insights into diversity competence and intercultural communication that you can start applying today.

cultureXchange

20/09/2024

🌍 Cultures Don’t Meet, People Do… 🎙️

In this week’s episode of the cultureXchange podcast, we unpack this powerful idea with the insightful Arjan Verdooren, co-author of the book: Diversity Competence: Cultures Don’t Meet, People Do! Join co-hosts Frauke and Marie-Christine as they discuss the importance of personal connections in intercultural communication.

Arjan, an expert in Diversity and Inclusion, emphasizes that true understanding goes beyond cultural differences—it’s about forging authentic relationships.

✨ Key Takeaways:
• The shift from cultural norms to meaningful connections
• Essential skills for thriving in diverse environments
• The TOPOI model for effective, inclusive communication

How do you cultivate personal connections in your multicultural interactions? We’d love to hear your thoughts!

Listen to our latest episode and discover how to navigate the complexities of intercultural interactions.

🔗 Catch the full conversation now—available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more! Link in bio.

https://culturexchange.podigee.io/24-new-episode

E24: # Cultures Don't Meet, People Do with Arjan Verdooren

16/09/2024

🌍✨ Is your career as flexible as your passport?

In today’s interconnected world, having a career that can adapt, grow, and travel with you is essential. Whether you’re an expat, a trailing spouse, or an international professional, flexibility is the key to thriving across borders.

In our latest cultureXchange Podcast episode, we discuss how to create a portable career that transitions with you, no matter where life takes you. From staying connected to your passions to growing your skills, we dive into practical strategies that can help you build a career that moves with you. 💼✈️

Join us for this insightful conversation with Jo Parfitt & Colleen Reichrath-Smith, as we explore how to make your career work for you, wherever you are in the world.

🎧 Tune in to Episode 23: A Career in Your Suitcase – How to Create a Career Anywhere

https://culturexchange.podigee.io/23-new-episode

12/09/2024

Why is building a portable career so challenging? Many expats, internationals, and accompanying partners face this struggle, but it also offers a chance to redefine success on your own terms.

🌍 As hosts of the cultureXchange Podcast, we, Frauke and Marie-Christine, understand the hurdles of maintaining a professional identity while adapting to new environments. It’s a journey filled with growth and unexpected opportunities.

In our latest episode, we dive into the concept of a “portable career” with Jo Parfitt and Colleen Reichrath-Smith , co-authors of A Career in Your Suitcase. We explore practical strategies for creating a career that moves with you, whether you’re freelancing, working remotely, or exploring new paths.

🎧 Don’t miss out on valuable insights and inspiring stories! Listen to the episode here: https://culturexchange.podigee.io/23-new-episode

11/09/2024

We had an amazing time at the ISD Activities Fair today, meeting fellow expats and connecting with the international community! 🌍🎉
As hosts of the cultureXchange podcast and workshops, we love sharing insights about living abroad and helping expats navigate new cultures. 🌏✨

It was also great to see our friends from American International Women's Club of Düsseldorf e.V. International Women in Business Düsseldorf Expat Services & Coaching by Anna Grabiger
and other incredible organizations that support the international community. 🤝 Thanks to International School of Düsseldorf for organizing such a fantastic event!

If you missed us at the fair, don’t worry! You can still tune in to the cultureXchange podcast for inspiring stories, cultural tips, and advice on thriving across borders. 🎙️ https://culturexchange.podigee.io/

Stay tuned for more workshops and community events coming up!

Yesterday, I had the chance to meet these two wonderful ladies , Frauke and Marie-Christine activities fair.

I have been listening to their podcast that covers everything related to living abroad, from the challenges of living an Expat life to more importantly how to overcome those in order to live a fulfilling life outside of your Home Country. Touching on topics such as career👩🏽‍💼, parenting 👧🏼as well as fitness 💪🏽 and mental wellbeing 💆‍♀️, I highly recommend listening to their podcast!

And of course thanks to and its big international Community 🌎 for being able to meet and network with many people from various backgrounds and cultures.

28/08/2024

🌍 Is your professional identity tucked away, waiting for the right moment to shine? ✨

Moving abroad can often put your career on hold, but it’s time to unpack those skills and let them thrive in new environments.

As co-hosts of the cultureXchange Podcast, we’ve faced the challenge of keeping our professional identities alive while adapting to life in a new country. It wasn’t easy, but embracing change has allowed us to grow in ways we never expected.

We’d love to hear from you! How have you managed to keep your professional identity intact while living abroad?

🎧 Want more insights? Tune into our latest episode with guests Jo Parfitt and Colleen Reichrath-Smith. They share invaluable tips on creating a career that moves with you, no matter where life takes you.

Listen now—link in bio.

https://culturexchange.podigee.io/23-new-episode

27/08/2024

Feeling stuck?

Whether you’ve recently moved abroad or are navigating a career transition, it can be tough to figure out what’s next. Our latest cultureXchange podcast episode is here to help!

Join us as we discuss how to create a career that evolves with you, no matter where life takes you. Featuring insights from seasoned professionals, this episode is packed with strategies to help you thrive.

🎧 Listen now: CultureXchange Podcast - Episode 23 https://culturexchange.podigee.io/23-new-episode

26/08/2024

🌍 Did you leave your career behind when you first moved abroad, or did it get lost in transit? ✈️

In our latest episode of the cultureXchange Podcast, co-hosts Frauke and Marie-Christine explore the unique challenges and exciting opportunities of creating a portable career that adapts to your global lifestyle. This episode features two special guests, Jo Parfitt and Colleen Reichrath-Smith , co-authors of the book “A Career in Your Suitcase.” They share valuable insights on how to build a career that grows and evolves with every move, no matter where life takes you.

Whether you’re an expat who’s navigating a new country or someone looking to make your career more adaptable, this episode offers practical advice and inspiration to help you succeed professionally across borders. 🌏

Listen now – Click the link in our bio to tune in! https://culturexchange.podigee.io/23-new-episode

22/08/2024

💼 How has your portable career evolved?

“A portable career not only moves with you when you do, but grows and evolves.”

In today’s interconnected world, your career should be just as flexible and dynamic as your lifestyle. 🌍 Whether you’re exploring new cultures, uncovering fresh opportunities, or navigating transitions, a portable career isn’t just about working from anywhere—it’s about continuous growth and adaptation.

Curious about how to create a career that adapts and evolves with you? Don’t miss our latest cultureXchange Podcast episode! 🎧 We had an insightful conversation with Jo Parfitt and Colleen Reichrath-Smith , co-authors of “A Career in Your Suitcase,” who shared their expertise on building a career that follows you wherever life takes you.

We’d love to hear from you—how has your career grown with your travels? Drop your stories in the comments! 👇

🔗 Click the link in our bio to listen now!

https://culturexchange.podigee.io/23-new-episode

16/08/2024

New Episode Alert: E23 - A Career in Your Suitcase🎧

Have you ever felt like your career got lost in transit when you moved abroad?

You're not alone! In this episode of the cultureXchange Podcast, we're joined by Jo Parfitt and Colleen Reichrath-Smith, co-authors of the bestselling book "A Career in Your Suitcase," to share their expertise on creating a portable career that follows you wherever you go.

Jo, an expat entrepreneur with 32 books to her name, and Colleen, a seasoned career consultant, dive deep into how you can find your passion, build your brand, and thrive professionally, no matter where life takes you.

**Tune in Now** and get inspired to take control of your career abroad. Don't miss this insightful episode!

Listen now on https://culturexchange.podigee.io/23-new-episode

Also Check Link in bio!

16/08/2024

Career In Your Suitcase? 🎙️ New Episode Out Now!🎙️

Our latest cultureXchange Podcast episode is LIVE! 🚀

💼 Tune in Now! – Click the link in our bio to listen.

E23: # A Career in Your Suitcase - How to Create a Career Anywhere with Jo Parfitt & Colleen Reichrath-Smith

https://culturexchange.podigee.io/23-new-episode

cultureXchange Jo Parfitt Colleen Reichrath-Smith Summertime Publishing

So pleased to have been invited to join my co-author for Career in Your Suitcase and be interviewed by Frauke and Marie-Christine for this podcast. Live today on The CultureXchange. Link in comments

26/07/2024

Navigating a new culture can be challenging. Here are some tips to make it easier!

Culture Shock Survival Kit:
1. Learning the Language 📚
- "Knowing basic phrases can go a long way in helping you communicate and connect with locals."

2. Embracing Local Customs
- "Understanding and participating in local customs can enhance your experience and help you blend in."

3. Making Local Friends
- "Building friendships with locals can provide insider knowledge and make your experience more enriching."

4. Staying Open-Minded
- "Keeping an open mind helps you adapt more easily and appreciate different perspectives and practices."

5. Researching Before You Go 📖
- "Doing some homework about the culture, history, and etiquette can prepare you for what's ahead."

6. Being Patient and Flexible 🧘‍♂️
- "Patience and flexibility can help you navigate unexpected challenges and differences smoothly."

7. Seeking Support When Needed 🌟
- "Don’t hesitate to reach out to support groups, fellow travelers, or locals when you feel overwhelmed."

Which culture shock tip do you find most helpful?

🎙️ Tune in and find out more with Frauke and Marie-Christine in our latest cultureXchange Podcast episode.

https://culturexchange.podigee.io/22-new-episode

Check link in bio to listen to the full episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite platform. cultureXchange

20/07/2024

Ever felt lost, anxious, or confused when stepping into a new culture? You're not alone!

Culture shock is a normal part of adapting to a new environment, whether you're moving, traveling, or studying abroad.
Discover the secrets to global agility, fitness, intercultural competence, and cultural intelligence.

Check out E22: Global Fitness for Global People - How to Manage and Leverage Cultural Diversity with Guest Peter Franklin

Go behind the scenes with Frauke and Marie-Christine as they record our latest cultureXchange Podcast episode with special guest Professor Peter Franklin! 🎙️
Explore how to thrive in a multicultural world and leverage cultural diversity for success.

Peter shares invaluable wisdom you won't want to miss!

Link in bio to listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite platform.

https://culturexchange.podigee.io/22-new-episode

cultureXchange
HTWG Konstanz

15/07/2024

📚 Here are 6 books to add to your summer reading list today! 📚

We just love our selected collection of amazing books! How many have YOU read so far?

✨ Fun Fact: All of these authors have been guests on our cultureXchange Podcast! 🎙️

📖 🎧 Episode Titles:
E22: # Global Fitness for Global People with Peter Franklin

E21: # Happy Expat Life with Florence Reisch-Gentinetta Coachingwiththeflo

E17: # This Messy Mobile Life with Author Page of Mariam Navaid Ottimofiore

E15: # Raising Global Teens with Dr. Anisha Abraham

E14: # Culture Crossing with Michael Landers

E18: # Third Culture Kids with Ruth E. Van Reken

E16: # When Cultures Collide with Helen Spencer-Oatey

🔗 Visit the link to start listening to our podcast episodes and gain some exclusive insights!

https://culturexchange.podigee.io/

Which will you pick first?

14/07/2024

🎙️ Go behind the scenes with hosts Frauke and Marie-Christine as they record our latest cultureXchange Podcast episode with guest Professor Peter Franklin! 🌟

E22: # Global Fitness for Global People - How to Manage and Leverage Cultural Diversity

Check link in bio to listen to the full episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite platform.

https://culturexchange.podigee.io/22-new-episode

cultureXchange HTWG Konstanz

08/07/2024

Check out our latest cultureXchange Podcast episode with Professor Peter Franklin. Curious to learn more about cultural diversity and global fitness?

The podcast explores what expats and others working and living across cultures need for success in diverse environments. From exploring Global Fitness for Global People to insights on living and working across cultures, Peter shares invaluable wisdom you won’t want to miss!

Tune in to our newly released episode with Professor Peter Franklin! 🎧✨

E22: # Global Fitness for Global People - How to Manage and Leverage Cultural Diversity

Check link in bio to listen to the full episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite platform.



https://culturexchange.podigee.io/22-new-episode

21/06/2024

🌍 Elevate Your Global Fitness: Embrace Cultural Diversity! 🌍

🎙️ New Episode Alert! Join hosts Frauke and Marie-Christine on the latest cultureXchange Podcast episode, where they explore managing and leveraging cultural diversity for personal and organizational success.

🌟 Guest Spotlight: Professor Peter Franklin 🌟
We’re excited to feature Professor Peter Franklin, an expert in intercultural competence from HTWG Konstanz University. With over three decades of experience, Peter has guided countless individuals and organizations to excel in diverse cultural environments.

🎧 Listen Now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite platform.

Dive into our proposed training plan for a fresh perspective on enhancing global fitness! 🎧💪

🔗 https://culturexchange.podigee.io/22-new-episode


HTWG Konstanz

21/06/2024

Be Ready to Boost Your Global Fitness in a Cultural Context!

E22: # Global Fitness for Global People - How to Manage and Leverage Cultural Diversity with Guest Peter Franklin

🎙️ New Episode Alert! 🎙️
Join hosts Frauke and Marie-Christine on the latest episode of the cultureXchange Podcast cultureXchange as they take you on a journey towards enhancing global fitness. In today’s era of geopolitical shifts and global turbulence, understanding and leveraging diversity are crucial for success in multicultural contexts—both at the individual and organizational level.

🌎 Guest Spotlight 🌎
Frauke and Marie-Christine welcome Professor Peter Franklin, an esteemed author, speaker, and expert in intercultural competence.

Peter Franklin is a Professor at HTWG Konstanz University, specializing in language, communication, and culture in international business and management.

For over three decades, Peter has advised, trained, and addressed countless people and organizations to develop their ability to work, manage, and lead across cultures. His specializations include managing change across cultures and optimizing the work of international, virtual teams.

Peter Franklin is the co-author of several books, including Global Fitness for Global People: How to Manage and Leverage Cultural Diversity at Work, which offers practical insights for thriving in today’s global workplaces.

🎧 Tune in now on Apple Podcast, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

https://culturexchange.podigee.io/22-new-episode

Join the conversation.

HTWG Konstanz

19/06/2024

“Carpe diem! Live the moment, enjoy the surprise with an open mind!”
- Florence Reisch-Gentinetta

Have you heard the expression “Carpe diem”? This Latin phrase encourages us to “seize the day,” reminding us to savor the present and not worry about the future.

🎙️ E21: Happy Expat Life: How to Thrive When Living Abroad

Join hosts Frauke and Marie-Christine on the latest episode of the cultureXchange Podcast cultureXchange as they explore the joys and challenges of expatriate life.

Guest Spotlight: Florence Reisch-Gentinetta
Florence Reisch

Florence, a seasoned expat and author of “Expat Wife, Happy Life!: The Journey of a Serial Expat,” shares her incredible 25-year journey of living around the world. Currently living in Dubai, she talks about reinventing herself and finding joy in every new country and culture. Discover her secrets to maintaining a positive attitude, building new friendships, and pursuing personal interests and opportunities abroad.

✨ Snippet from the Episode: “One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that every new place offers a unique opportunity to grow and learn. Embrace it fully!”

Tune in now to listen how to navigate your expat journey with confidence and happiness!

🔗 Listen now! [Link in bio]
https://culturexchange.podigee.io/21-new-episode

💬 Question for You: What’s your favorite “Carpe diem” moment from living abroad? Share in the comments below/ pm us!

17/06/2024

Thank You for 4,000 Downloads and Streams!

We're excited to celebrate a new milestone for the cultureXchange Podcast: over 4,000 total downloads and streams! Every single listen means the world, and we couldn't have done it without our amazing listeners.

A huge thank you from your co-hosts, Frauke and Marie-Christine, to everyone who's tuned in on: Apple Podcasts Spotify for Podcasters Podigee or wherever you get your cultureXchange podcast from.

We also want to thank our incredible guests who share their expertise, inspiring life stories, and unique pathways from living in foreign countries and cross-cultural expertise. Thanks to you, we've grown and created such a great podcast.

Join the conversation and become part of our international community!
Link in bio: https:// culturexchange.podigee.io

Florence Reisch American International Women's Club of Düsseldorf e.V. International Women in Business Düsseldorf International School of Düsseldorf Andy Molinsky Ruth E. Van Reken Author Page of Mariam Navaid Ottimofiore Jennifer Shinkai Expat Service Desk ME&DUS Xpat.gr International English Library Düsseldorf Franziska Luxhøj - Be happy abroad Ariane Sommer ICUnet.Group Anna C. Seidel Dr. Anisha Abraham Dr. Nico Rose Subsonic Attack