Better German Podcast with Susi

Susanne Schilk-Blümel
62 "To have" in German

2026-03-20 15 min

In this episode, you’ll learn how “haben” (engl. "to have") works in real sentences! And you will learn how to add objects to a sentence (what are you having) - and what change is happening with the article "der". This is a very basic episode to make slightly longer sentences in German.  If you want to stop guessing and start forming correct sentences, this is one of the first building blocks. 🎯 Find out your REAL German levelNot what certificate you have — where you actually stand today.Take the free Better German Placement Test and get a personal response from me with your real level and your best next step.👉 bettergerman.info/test 🔑 What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy “haben” is not always used the way English “have” is,How to say “I have…” correctly in German,How to build a basic sentence step by step,How small word changes affect meaning,Why one word in the sentence sometimes changes form (your first step into sentence structure).
61 Self-Paced Courses Don’t Work… Right?

2026-03-11 20 min

Many learners believe that self-paced courses are the problem. They assume they need discipline, pressure, or a classroom environment to finally succeed with German. But the real issue is something else entirely. In this episode, I talk about a conversation from one of my recent workshops with a learner who believed he couldn’t succeed in a self-paced course. His experience is actually very common: people force themselves through classes for months or even years — and still never reach the point where they can actually speak German. So what’s really going on? We look at why many traditional courses struggle to produce real results, why motivation disappears when learning stops making sense, and why learning at your own speed is not the problem — it’s often the solution. Free Live German WorkshopHow to Actually Learn German https://bettergerman.info/workshop Get Talking German CourseGerman for Beginners & Restarters https://bettergerman.info/course Key Topics in This Episode• Why many learners believe self-paced courses don’t work• What really happens when people force themselves through classes• The difference between motivation and discipline in language learning• Why people naturally learn at different speeds• Why group classes often cannot adapt to individual learning speed• How learning can become easier when the process actually makes sense• What it really means to “learn to communicate” in German Mentioned in This EpisodeHow to Actually Learn German – Free Live Workshop https://bettergerman.info/workshop Get Talking GermanMy step-by-step course for Beginners &a...
60 German Umlauts: What Those Two Dots Actually Do

2026-03-11 20 min

Many learners see ä, ö, and ü and immediately feel confused. What are those two dots? Are they new letters? Are they just decoration? In this episode, we look at German umlauts in a very practical way. You'll hear how they sound, how they relate to the normal vowels a, o, and u , and why they often appear when words change form — for example, when a noun becomes plural. Most importantly, you'll practice the sounds out loud with real examples so you can start getting used to hearing and saying them.If you want to follow along more easily, download the free cheat sheet with all the example words mentioned in the episode. 👩🏻‍💻Free Workshop https://bettergerman.info/workshop🗣️Get Talking German Course https://bettergerman.info/course⬇️Download the Umlaut Cheat Sheet https://bettergerman.info/umlaut Key Topics in This EpisodeWhat the German umlaut actually meansWhy German has the letters ä, ö , and üThe connection between sound changes and word changesExamples with a → ä, o → ö, and u → üCommon singular and plural pairs ( Mann → Männer, Buch → Bücher , etc.)How to practice umlaut sounds effectively Mentioned in This EpisodeEpisode 18 — The German AlphabetGet Talking German CourseYou May Also LikeBetter German Podcast → https://podcast.bettergerman.infoFree Live German Workshop → https://bettergerman.info/workshop
59 Why Do Most German Courses Start at the Wrong Place?

2026-03-10 11 min

DescriptionWhy do so many people study German for years and still feel stuck? In this episode, Susi looks at one surprising problem with how many German courses are structured. You’ll hear why the starting point matters much more than most learners realize—and how approaching German differently can change the entire learning experience. Free Live German Workshop:https://bettergerman.info/workshop Get Talking German Course:https://bettergerman.info/course Key Topics in This EpisodeWhy many German courses begin in a way that makes learning harderWhat language learning actually looks like in real lifeWhy the starting point of a course mattersA common pattern in traditional German learningA different way to approach learning German Mentioned in This EpisodeGet Talking German courseFree Live German WorkshopEmail support for episode 58 PDF: podcast@bettergerman.info Get Talking German (Course)Learn German in a way that helps you start speaking step by step.https://bettergerman.info/course You May Also LikeBetter German Podcasthttps://podcast.bettergerman.infoFree Live German Workshophttps://bettergerman.info/workshop
58 How to Use Describing Words Before Nouns in German

2026-02-26 21 min

🎙️Better German Podcast – Episode 58 German Adjectives Made Simple with Practical Examples   In this episode, you learn how German adjectives change when they come before nouns — in a clear, beginner-friendly way. You’ll practice adjectives like big, beautiful, old, and small and see how they behave with the articles - “the” (der / die / das) and “a” (ein / eine), you’ll practice clear, practical examples so you can finally understand the pattern instead of memorizing tables. If adjective endings have ever felt confusing, this episode shows you that they’re actually very logical — and learnable. Want to go further with your German?Workshop: Discover the three biggest mistakes that keep people stuck with German—and what to do instead—in the free live workshop. It is also the first step to do if you are interested in taking a course, as you will see how we teach. https://bettergerman.info/workshopCourse: Get Talking German uses a completely different approach to help you understand and use German faster.https://bettergerman.info/coursePodcast Community: Get all podcast resources in one place inside the Better German Podcast Community and ask your questions there.https://bettergerman.info/community ⬇️ Free PDF (Episode 58) (as soon as it it available)  https://bettergerman.info/adjectives2. 🎧 Full Show Notes & Links https://bettergerman.info/58 ✨ Key Topics in This EpisodeWhat adjectives are in German (groß, klein, schön, alt, nett)Why adjectives change when they come before a nounAdjectives after verbs vs before nouns ( The ball is big vs The big ball)Adjectives wi...
57 Practice Restaurant Words (plus Short Conversation)

2026-02-12 24 min

🎙️ Better German Podcast – Episode 57Practice German Restaurant Phrases + Real Dialogues In this episode, you actively practice German restaurant vocabulary from Episode 53 with real sentences, pronunciation, and two short dialogues. You’ll hear useful phrases for ordering food, asking for the bill, understanding menus in Austria, and talking about typical dishes like Schnitzel or Kaiserschmarrn.If you want practical German you can actually use in cafés, restaurants, or while travelling, this episode helps you train listening and speaking at the same time. ⬇️ Free PDF (Episodes 53 + 57)https://bettergerman.info/restaurant 🎧 Full Show Notes & Linkshttps://bettergerman.info/57 Want to go further with your German?Workshop: Discover the three biggest mistakes that keep people stuck with German—and what to do instead—in the free live workshop. It is also the first step to do if you are interested in taking a course, as you will see how we teach. https://bettergerman.info/workshopCourse: Get Talking German uses a completely different approach to help you understand and use German faster.https://bettergerman.info/coursePodcast Community: Get all podcast resources in one place inside the Better German Podcast Community and ask your questions there.https://bettergerman.info/community ✨ Key Topics in This EpisodePracticing restaurant vocabulary in real sentencesAustrian café and “Kaffeehaus” cultureVorspeise, Hauptspeise, Nachspeise explainedWhat a “Menü” means in Austria (fixed-price meal)Useful ordering phrases: Ich hätte gerne, Ich möchte, zahlen bitteBreakfast buffet ques...
56 How Not to Get Discouraged When Learning German - Part 2

2026-01-29 20 min

Part 2 of this mini-series looks at the most common obstacles that quietly stop learners from making progress — and what you can do instead.We talk about misunderstood words, skipping steps, unrealistic expectations, and why practice really matters. A bonus tip at the end shows you how to keep German interesting so you don’t quit. Want to go further with your German?Workshop: Discover the three biggest mistakes that keep people stuck with German—and what to do instead—in the free live workshop. It is also the first step to do if you are interested in taking a course, as you will see how we teach. https://bettergerman.info/workshopCourse: Get Talking German uses a completely different approach to help you understand and use German faster.https://bettergerman.info/coursePodcast Community: Get all podcast resources in one place inside the Better German Podcast Community and ask your questions there.https://bettergerman.info/community 🔑 In this episode, you’ll learn:• Why misunderstood words can block learning• How skipping steps creates frustration• Why “total immersion” is mostly a myth• Why a native speaker isn’t automatically a good teacher• How to set realistic expectations• Why practice is not optional• How to keep German interesting 🔗 Mentioned in this episode:• Study Technology by L. Ron Hubbard https://www.appliedscholastics.org/• How long does it take to learn German? — Ep 29 https://bettergerman.info/29• How much practice do we need? — Ep 28 https://bettergerman.info/28• Get Talking — German course https://bettergerman.info/course 🎓 Start learning German with me:...
55 How Not to Get Discouraged When Learning German - Part 1

2026-01-15 24 min

Many people start learning German motivated — and then hit a point where they think: “I can’t do this. It’s too hard.”In this episode, Susi explains why that happens and what you can do to prevent it, so you can keep going and make real progress. This is Part 1 of a two-part series and covers tips 1–5. 🔑 In this episode, you’ll learn: • Why your personal “why” is essential• Why everything you learn needs a clear purpose• Why learning only for tests causes frustration• How a realistic schedule keeps you from giving up• Why beginners must first build a core vocabulary Want to go further with your German?Workshop: Discover the three biggest mistakes that keep people stuck with German—and what to do instead—in the free live workshop. It is also the first step to do if you are interested in taking a course, as you will see how we teach. https://bettergerman.info/workshopCourse: Get Talking German uses a completely different approach to help you understand and use German faster.https://bettergerman.info/coursePodcast Community: Get all podcast resources in one place inside the Better German Podcast Community and ask your questions there.https://bettergerman.info/community 🔗 Mentioned in this episode:• Good habits for learning German — Episode 54 https://bettergerman.info/54• How much practice do we need? — Episode 28 https://bettergerman.info/28• How long does it take to learn German? — Episode 29 https://bettergerman.info/29• Study Technology by L. Ron Hubbard - https://www.appliedscholastics.org/• Next episode: Tips 6–10 + bonus (Part 2 – episode 56, upcoming) 🎓 Start learn...
54 Good Habits to Learn German Anytime of the Year

2026-01-03 24 min

Learning German usually doesn’t fail because German is hard — it fails because the habits don’t work. In this episode, Susi talks about realistic learning habits that actually help you make progress in German, whether you’re restarting, learning on the side, or finally want to do it properly this time. No gimmicks, no unrealistic promises — just what actually works. 🎬 Free PDF: Learn German with Movies & TV 📘 German Articles Guide (Der · Die · Das) with the mentioned list of nouns Want to go further with your German?Workshop: Discover the three biggest mistakes that keep people stuck with German—and what to do instead—in the free live workshop. It is also the first step to do if you are interested in taking a course, as you will see how we teach. https://bettergerman.info/workshopCourse: Get Talking German uses a completely different approach to help you understand and use German faster.https://bettergerman.info/coursePodcast Community: Get all podcast resources in one place inside the Better German Podcast Community and ask your questions there.https://bettergerman.info/community 🔎 Key Topics• Why motivation alone doesn’t work• How much weekly time actually makes a difference• What to focus on first (and what to ignore early on)• Vocabulary, practice, and media — how they work together• Subtitles: when they help and when they don’t• When structure and courses actually matter 🔗 Mentioned Links & Resources• Nicos Weg – Full Movie with multiple subtitles• Learn German with Movies & TV – Free PDF (curated list of YouTube, Netflix, Prime, Disney):• German Article...
53 Easy German Words Restaurant
Menus, Ordering, and Food Vocabulary

2025-12-18 27 min

PDF for the episode: https://bettergerman.info/restaurant In this episode, Susi explains how to talk about restaurants in German in a simple, practical way . You'll learn how restaurant language actually works in real life, which phrases people really use, and what's typical in Austria and Germany. The focus is on useful words, natural sentences, and confidence , not textbook rules. Want to go further with your German?Workshop: Discover the three biggest mistakes that keep people stuck with German—and what to do instead—in the free live workshop. It is also the first step to do if you are interested in taking a course, as you will see how we teach. https://bettergerman.info/workshopCourse: Get Talking German uses a completely different approach to help you understand and use German faster.https://bettergerman.info/coursePodcast Community: Get all podcast resources in one place inside the Better German Podcast Community and ask your questions there.https://bettergerman.info/community Key Topics 🔎 Restaurant German• What restaurant vocabulary you really need• Typical Austrian and German food you'll see on menus• Polite and natural phrases for ordering and paying• Small cultural details that make restaurants easier to navigate Mentioned Episodes(all episodes can be found at bettergerman.info/# of the episode)Ep 57: Restaurant Practice & Conversation (coming soon) You May Also Like:Episode 30: “To Be” in GermanEp 8: How Much Grammar Do We Need?
52 German Irregular Verbs Super Easy

2025-12-04 33 min

This episode makes German verbs that change their form (irregular verbs / starke verbs) super easy. There is a free PDF to follow along (and practice further). 📥 Download Part 2 of the FREE German Verbs Guide: https://bettergerman.info/verbs2 German is a funny language sometimes. You learn a word like fahren (to drive) and you think, “Great, I know this word!” But then German plays a little trick. When you say I drive, it stays I drive. But when you say he drives, suddenly the word changes a little and becomes he drives. Same idea, same time, just a tiny vowel jump in the middle! It's a bit like English sing – sang, where the sound changes. German just likes to do this little sound switch even when we are still talking about right now. Don't worry — once you see the pattern, it's actually quite fun. Want to go further with your German?Workshop: Discover the three biggest mistakes that keep people stuck with German—and what to do instead—in the free live workshop. It is also the first step to do if you are interested in taking a course, as you will see how we teach. https://bettergerman.info/workshopCourse: Get Talking German uses a completely different approach to help you understand and use German faster.https://bettergerman.info/coursePodcast Community: Get all podcast resources in one place inside the Better German Podcast Community and ask your questions there.https://bettergerman.info/community Listen until the end for a small preview of Episode 53, where you will learn useful German words for talking about food at a restaurant! Key Topics 🔎 German Irregular Ve...
51 7 Ways to Practice German Even If You Don’t Live in Germany or Austria

2025-11-27 37 min

If you’re ready to finally speak with confidence — not just “know things” — this course is built for you. Clear explanations, practical exercises, and the kind of guidance that actually gets you talking. Pre-sale is live now, and it’s the perfect moment to jump in before doors fully open.   In Episode 51 of the Better German Podcast, host Susi Blumel walks you through the 7 ways of practicing German even when you are not a native speaker yourself. She busts the myth that only native speakers can teach you well.  and why it’s absolutely not required for becoming a confident German speaker. Instead, you’ll hear what actually matters when you’re learning: clarity, structure, practice, and saying things out loud until they stick. Simple, practical, and freeing! Want to go further with your German?Workshop: Discover the three biggest mistakes that keep people stuck with German—and what to do instead—in the free live workshop. It is also the first step to do if you are interested in taking a course, as you will see how we teach. https://bettergerman.info/workshopCourse: Get Talking German uses a completely different approach to help you understand and use German faster.https://bettergerman.info/coursePodcast Community: Get all podcast resources in one place inside the Better German Podcast Community and ask your questions there.https://bettergerman.info/community Key Topics 🔎Why so many learners struggle to find people to practice with — and what to do about it.The truth about practicing with native speakers (and when you don't need one).7 practical ways to practice German d...
50 German Clothes Words and Simple Sentence Practice

2025-11-20 33 min

Grab the free PDF for this episode here: https://bettergerman.info/clothes This guide gives you all the clothing vocabulary from episode 46 so you can follow along as Susi practices it in real sentences. In this special 50th episode of the Better German Podcast, Susi Blümel brings the clothes topic back to life — not just listing the words, but showing you how to use them in clear, everyday sentences. You’ll practice clothing items, colors, and simple descriptions, while Susi highlights the key grammar you need, like articles and plurals.By the end, you’ll feel confident using these clothing words naturally when you speak. If you’d like to see what this approach looks like in action and understand why German feels unnecessarily hard for so many learners, join my free live workshop “How to Actually Learn German.” I’ll walk you through what usually goes wrong — and what actually makes progress possible. https://bettergerman.info/workshop Want to go further with your German?Workshop: Discover the three biggest mistakes that keep people stuck with German—and what to do instead—in the free live workshop. It is also the first step to do if you are interested in taking a course, as you will see how we teach. https://bettergerman.info/workshopCourse: Get Talking German uses a completely different approach to help you understand and use German faster.https://bettergerman.info/coursePodcast Community: Get all podcast resources in one place inside the Better German Podcast Community and ask your questions there.https://bettergerman.info/community Key Topics 🔎 Practicing Sentences...
49 "Sie" – She, They, It or You? Finally Learn the Difference
Learn how the little German word “sie” can mean “she,” “they,” "it," and even “you” — with simple examples and a free practice PDF.

2025-11-13 29 min

Grab the free PDF for this episode here: https://bettergerman.info/sie This guide walks you through all the different uses of “sie” in one place. Work through the examples, follow along with Susi in the episode, and test yourself with short sentences so each meaning sticks for good. It's straightforward, practical, and finally makes this tiny troublemaker easy to handle. In episode 49 of the Better German podcast, Susi Blümel explains the different meanings of the little word sie — it can mean "she," "they," "it," or the polite "you." Susi shows you easy ways to tell which one is meant, using simple examples and everyday sentences. By the end, you'll finally understand how this one word can mean so many things, and you'll feel much more confident using it when you speak. If you’d like to see what this approach looks like in action and understand why German feels unnecessarily hard for so many learners, join my free live workshop “How to Actually Learn German.” I’ll walk you through what usually goes wrong — and what actually makes progress possible. https://bettergerman.info/workshop Want to go further with your German?Workshop: Discover the three biggest mistakes that keep people stuck with German—and what to do instead—in the free live workshop. It is also the first step to do if you are interested in taking a course, as you will see how we teach. https://bettergerman.info/workshopCourse: Get Talking German uses a completely different approach to help you understand and use German faster.https://bettergerman.info/coursePodcast Community: Get all podcast resources ...
48 Stop Forgetting German Words - Do These Easy Steps

2025-11-06 28 min

Hello!✨Welcome to Episode 48 of the Better German Podcast, where host Susi Blümel dives into one of the biggest challenges every learner faces: Why it’s so hard to remember German words — and what you can do to make them stick finally.She also shares some exciting updates about the show: new weekly episodes, a growing team, and easier access to free PDF companion guides — now available to everyone, not just community members! Want to go further with your German?Workshop: Discover the three biggest mistakes that keep people stuck with German—and what to do instead—in the free live workshop. It is also the first step to do if you are interested in taking a course, as you will see how we teach. https://bettergerman.info/workshopCourse: Get Talking German uses a completely different approach to help you understand and use German faster.https://bettergerman.info/coursePodcast Community: Get all podcast resources in one place inside the Better German Podcast Community and ask your questions there.https://bettergerman.info/community 🎧 Summary In Episode 48 of the Better German Podcast, Susi Blümel tackles one of the biggest struggles in learning German — remembering vocabulary. She explains why word lists and flashcards often fail, and shares simple, proven ways to make new words truly stick. You’ll learn how your brain remembers language best and how to apply it in everyday practice. Explore more tips, free resources, and live courses inside the Better German Community — where real learners make real progress. ✨ Introduction Welcome back to the Better German Podcast! In th...
47 German Sentences to Describe Things

2025-10-30 34 min

Episode 47 is building directly on Episode 44's vocabulary list. This episode turns theory into action: you'll create real sentences, understand how to use the words introduced in episode 44 to describe things. You will learn how they are actually used in sentences. Susi shares how practice bridges the gap between knowing words and actually using them. 📥Here you'll find the PDF that accompanies this episode: https://bettergerman.info/adjectives Want to go further with your German?Workshop: Discover the three biggest mistakes that keep people stuck with German—and what to do instead—in the free live workshop. It is also the first step to do if you are interested in taking a course, as you will see how we teach. https://bettergerman.info/workshopCourse: Get Talking German uses a completely different approach to help you understand and use German faster.https://bettergerman.info/coursePodcast Community: Get all podcast resources in one place inside the Better German Podcast Community and ask your questions there.https://bettergerman.info/community 🔎 Key Topics: Practicing German Sentences to Describe Things (Adjectives).Why practicing with full sentences helps you move from knowing to speaking.How “Make another sentence!” (“Make another sentence!”) becomes your best learning toolCommon adjectives covered in this episode, including: big (big/tall), old (old), cold (cold)Examples using everyday nouns Special German sentence structures explained: ▫️ I'm cold (literally “To me is cold”) ▫️ Are you cold? → Are you cold?Encouragement to practice and speak early, even if it's n...
46 Essential Words for Clothes You Should Know

2025-10-16 31 min

📥Here you'll find the PDF that accompanies this episode: https://bettergerman.info/clothes Download this free PDF and practice the clothing words from Episode 46. Learn the clothes words as you follow along with the episode and start using them in sentences—quick, simple, and effective! Summary 📥Download the PDF that accompanies this episode: https://bettergerman.info/clothes This episode of the Better German Podcast takes you through the essentials of German clothing vocabulary. From coats and dresses to trousers and shirts, you’ll learn the most common words, their plural forms, and some differences between clothing items in German and English. Susi applies her effective 20% Theory – 80% Practical approach, sharing examples and practice tips you can start using right away. Want to go further with your German?Workshop: Discover the three biggest mistakes that keep people stuck with German—and what to do instead—in the free live workshop. It is also the first step to do if you are interested in taking a course, as you will see how we teach. https://bettergerman.info/workshopCourse: Get Talking German uses a completely different approach to help you understand and use German faster.https://bettergerman.info/coursePodcast Community: Get all podcast resources in one place inside the Better German Podcast Community and ask your questions there.https://bettergerman.info/community Key Topics: 🔎 Clothes in GermanWhy learning clothing vocabulary helps beginners build sentences quicklyCore nouns for clothes with plurals and examples, including:  ▫️ die Kleidung (clothes –...
45 Learn German Verbs The Easy Way

2025-10-02 28 min

📥Here you'll find the PDF that accompanies this episode: https://bettergerman.info/verbs1.  Download this free PDF and practice the verbs from Episode 45 step by step. Learn the forms, follow along with the podcast, and create your own sentences. Quick, simple, and effective—start speaking with confidence today!   In this episode of Better German, host Susi Blümel explains how German verbs (words like walk, eat, sleep) work in the present. She shows the simple patterns behind regular verbs and their endings, step by step, with examples like go, live, come, and play. You'll also learn tips for practicing out loud, writing verb lists, and using a free PDF worksheet to make the rules stick. By the end, you'll see that verbs in the present are easier than they seem—and you'll be ready to use them in everyday conversations with confidence.  IntroductionWelcome to another episode of Better German! Verbs are the engine of every sentence—and in German, they don't stay the same. They change depending on who is speaking: ich, du, er/sie/es ( I, you, he, she, it). At first, this can feel confusing, but don't worry—regular verbs follow simple rules.In this episode, Susi compares how verbs change in English and German, and shares easy examples you'll recognize right away. With her step-by-step method, you'll see that learning verb endings is not only possible but actually quite fun.  Want to go further with your German?Workshop: Discover the three biggest mistakes that keep people stuck with German—and what to do instead—in the free live workshop. It is also the first step to do if...
44 Describing Things in German: Small, Big, etc.

2025-09-18 22 min

📥Here you find the PDF that goes with this episode: https://bettergerman.info/adjectives Download this free guide and practise the 16 core German describing words from Episode 44 — with examples, pronunciation tips, and short exercises that help you actually use them in real sentences. In this episode of Better German, host Susi Blümel walks you through essential adjectives like big, small, old, young,  and more — the words that give your German colour and personality. She explains how to pronounce them (including the German r) and shows simple sentences so you can start using these words right away. By the end, you’ll feel more comfortable describing things in German and be ready for the next part of the adjective series. Want to go further with your German?Workshop: Discover the three biggest mistakes that keep people stuck with German—and what to do instead—in the free live workshop. It is also the first step to do if you are interested in taking a course, as you will see how we teach. https://bettergerman.info/workshopCourse: Get Talking German uses a completely different approach to help you understand and use German faster.https://bettergerman.info/coursePodcast Community: Get all podcast resources in one place inside the Better German Podcast Community and ask your questions there.https://bettergerman.info/community How do you say things like “the house is big” or “the weather is nice” in German? For that, you need a special group of words that describe things. In this episode, you’ll learn 16 very common ones that you can use all the time when talking about p...
43 German Numbers Made Easy

2025-09-05 39 min

In episode 43 of the Better German Podcast, host Susi Blumel breaks down everything you need to know about German numbers. She guides listeners through counting from 1 to 100, explains the difference between “eins” and “ein,” and introduces patterns for numbers above 20. She also previews upcoming episodes on adjectives, ordinal numbers, and dates. This episode is perfect for beginners or anyone wanting to brush up on their German number skills. Want to go further with your German?Workshop: Discover the three biggest mistakes that keep people stuck with German—and what to do instead—in the free live workshop. It is also the first step to do if you are interested in taking a course, as you will see how we teach. https://bettergerman.info/workshopCourse: Get Talking German uses a completely different approach to help you understand and use German faster.https://bettergerman.info/coursePodcast Community: Get all podcast resources in one place inside the Better German Podcast Community and ask your questions there.https://bettergerman.info/community 📚 Summary⬇️Download the PDF that accompanies this episode: https://bettergerman.info/numbers Numbers are everywhere — from catching the right train at 7:45 to saying your age. In this refreshing episode of the Better German podcast, Susi Blumel makes German numbers simple and practical. Instead of just memorizing lists, you'll practice patterns that carry you all the way to 100 and see how to put them into action when talking about time, age, or phone numbers. You'll also hear how to keep learning with free resources in the Be...
42 Improve Your German with Simple Sentences Using Colors
Better German Podcast Episode 42

2025-08-14 14 min

Hey there, and welcome back to Better German! In this episode, Susi Blumel is making colors in German super easy to talk about. She covers how to ask and answer questions like, “Is the table green?” or “What color is the chair?”—all with simple examples you can use right away. Plus, you'll hear about a free PDF packed with more sentences for extra practice inside friendly Better German Community if you want more help or someone to practice with. If you want to feel more confident chatting about colors in German, this episode's for you! Want to go further with your German?Workshop: Discover the three biggest mistakes that keep people stuck with German—and what to do instead—in the free live workshop. It is also the first step to do if you are interested in taking a course, as you will see how we teach. https://bettergerman.info/workshopCourse: Get Talking German uses a completely different approach to help you understand and use German faster.https://bettergerman.info/coursePodcast Community: Get all podcast resources in one place inside the Better German Podcast Community and ask your questions there.https://bettergerman.info/community 📚 SummaryIn this episode of Better German , host Susi Blumel helps you move from knowing color words to actually using them in German sentences . You'll learn how to ask questions like, " What color is…?" (What color is...?) and how to answer with phrases like, " The table is green." (The table is green). Whether you're just starting or building confidence, this episode gives you the tools to talk about colors naturally. You'll also fin...
41 When Gift Means Poison: Surprising German-English False Friends
Better German Podcast Episode 41

2025-07-31 16 min

In this episode of Better German, host Susi Blumel explores the often confusing concept of “false friends”—German words that look or sound like English ones but mean something entirely different. With relatable stories and examples like Gift , become , and Rat , Susi highlights how these tricky pairs can lead to misunderstandings. She shares practical tips for spotting and mastering false friends, including smart vocabulary-building strategies and the importance of a good dictionary. Want to go further with your German?Workshop: Discover the three biggest mistakes that keep people stuck with German—and what to do instead—in the free live workshop. It is also the first step to do if you are interested in taking a course, as you will see how we teach. https://bettergerman.info/workshopCourse: Get Talking German uses a completely different approach to help you understand and use German faster.https://bettergerman.info/coursePodcast Community: Get all podcast resources in one place inside the Better German Podcast Community and ask your questions there.https://bettergerman.info/community Introduction Welcome to another episode of Better German! In today's episode, host Susi Blumel dives into the fascinating and sometimes hilarious world of “false friends”—those tricky words that sound similar in German and English but mean totally different things. Susi shares her own first encounter with the confusion these words can cause, like mistaking the English word “gift” for poison, and breaks down some of the most common and confusing false friends you might run into as a learne...
40 Colors

2025-07-17 28 min Susanne Schilk-Blümel

In this episode of Better German teaches listeners the German words for basic colors. She shares updates about her teaching, new online courses, and the free Better German community. Susi provides a clear, repeat-after-me pronunciation guide for a range of color words, tips for memorizing and practicing vocabulary, and practical exercises to help learners integrate these new words into everyday use. Bonus resources, including a handy printable PDF with color vocabulary, are available in the Better German community which is completely free to sign up. Want to go further with your German?Workshop: Discover the three biggest mistakes that keep people stuck with German—and what to do instead—in the free live workshop. It is also the first step to do if you are interested in taking a course, as you will see how we teach. https://bettergerman.info/workshopCourse: Get Talking German uses a completely different approach to help you understand and use German faster.https://bettergerman.info/coursePodcast Community: Get all podcast resources in one place inside the Better German Podcast Community and ask your questions there.https://bettergerman.info/community  Introduction Welcome back to the Better German Podcast! In today's episode, host Susi Blumel brings you a fresh, interactive lesson all about colors in German. Susi shares some behind-the-scenes updates about the podcast, exciting plans for upcoming courses, and tips on how you can make your German learning journey even more effective—right from your own home. Get ready to practice German color vocabulary, learn helpful p...
39 Restart and Conversation
From Break to Breakthrough: Revamping Better German with Community and Conversations

2024-11-21 22 min Susanne Schilk-Blümel

IntroductionWelcome back to the Better German podcast! In this episode, Susi Blümel returns after a short break to share exciting news about the launch of the Better German Community—a place where learners can connect, practice, and improve their German skills together. Want to go further with your German?Workshop: Discover the three biggest mistakes that keep people stuck with German—and what to do instead—in the free live workshop. It is also the first step to do if you are interested in taking a course, as you will see how we teach. https://bettergerman.info/workshopCourse: Get Talking German uses a completely different approach to help you understand and use German faster.https://bettergerman.info/coursePodcast Community: Get all podcast resources in one place inside the Better German Podcast Community and ask your questions there.https://bettergerman.info/community Key Topics Explored🔎• The Better German Community: What it is and how it helps learners.• Why conversation is essential for learning German.• How to get started with conversation practice as a beginner.• The benefits of practicing with a study partner.• Tips to keep early conversations correction-free to build confidence.• An invitation to join free Zoom conversation classes.• Sneak peek at the next episode on German pronunciation. Related EpisodesEpisode 5: Introduction to German Articles Episode 37: Introduction to German CasesEpisode 38: German Word List Family Members Other Resources📚🤓Check out this Interactive German Movie Guide with suitable TV shows and movies with subtitles in your language, so y...
38 German Word List Family Members

2024-06-16 17 min Susanne Schilk-Blümel

In episode 38 of the Better German Podcast, host Susi Blumel introduces an upcoming German beginner course and discusses a new frequency for podcast episodes. The main focus of the episode is a word list covering family members in German, with translations and helpful illustrations. Learn German repeating those words! Here you can get the list of words used with translation and an illustration. Want to go further with your German?Workshop: Discover the three biggest mistakes that keep people stuck with German—and what to do instead—in the free live workshop. It is also the first step to do if you are interested in taking a course, as you will see how we teach. https://bettergerman.info/workshopCourse: Get Talking German uses a completely different approach to help you understand and use German faster.https://bettergerman.info/coursePodcast Community: Get all podcast resources in one place inside the Better German Podcast Community and ask your questions there.https://bettergerman.info/community Introduction When you meet new people and talk to them, family could be a subject discussed soon. So our word list of 25 German words (father, mother, brother...) will come in handy! Learn by repetition - and don't forget to download your word list and illustration.  Key Topics and Bullets  Primary topic: Introduction and Course AnnouncementChange in frequency of the podcastAnnouncement of the new German beginner course in the Better German academyOverview of the course content and structureEmphasis on the benefits for total beginners and those struggling with speaking GermanP...
37 Introduction to German Cases Part 3
Part 3

2024-05-30 17 min

Episode 37 is the third and final part of a mini-series introducing German cases. It briefly recaps the first two episodes, which covered the definition and importance of cases, names of cases, and how verbs determine cases. The focus of this episode is on how German prepositions determine cases, with examples provided for clarity. It also explains special prepositions that require different cases depending on context. Get the free PDF German Case Essentials here. Want to go further with your German?Workshop: Discover the three biggest mistakes that keep people stuck with German—and what to do instead—in the free live workshop. It is also the first step to do if you are interested in taking a course, as you will see how we teach. https://bettergerman.info/workshopCourse: Get Talking German uses a completely different approach to help you understand and use German faster.https://bettergerman.info/coursePodcast Community: Get all podcast resources in one place inside the Better German Podcast Community and ask your questions there.https://bettergerman.info/community Summary  Welcome to the third and final part of our series on German cases! In this episode, we delved deep into how prepositions determine German cases and covered special prepositions that ask for specific cases in different situations. We also discussed the importance of not getting too caught up in perfection and focused on the ultimate goal of effective communication in German. If you're new to German cases, be sure to grab the cheat sheet at bettergerman.info/cases for a summary of today's episode. And ...
36 Introduction to German Cases Part 2
The Names and Basic Usages of the 4 German Cases (Fälle)

2024-05-15 15 min

In this episode, you will learn the names and basic usages of each of the four cases of the German language. Want to go further with your German?Workshop: Discover the three biggest mistakes that keep people stuck with German—and what to do instead—in the free live workshop. It is also the first step to do if you are interested in taking a course, as you will see how we teach. https://bettergerman.info/workshopCourse: Get Talking German uses a completely different approach to help you understand and use German faster.https://bettergerman.info/coursePodcast Community: Get all podcast resources in one place inside the Better German Podcast Community and ask your questions there.https://bettergerman.info/community Summary  In this episode of Better German, host Susi Blumel continues her mini-series on cases in the German language. She emphasizes the importance of understanding cases, while also acknowledging the challenges they may pose to beginners. Susi breaks down the four cases in German - nominative, genitive, dative, and accusative - providing a brief explanation of each and offering insights into their usage. She also hints at a cheat sheet for a clearer understanding of cases and invites listeners to sign up for the newsletter to stay updated. In the next episode, she promises to delve into how specific prepositions in German correspond to different cases. If you're struggling with German cases, this episode is a must-listen! Key Points Explored🔎  Primary Topic: Introduction to CasesImportance of understanding cases in learning GermanRecognition of challenges f...
35 Introduction to German Cases Part 1
Understanding German "Fälle"

2024-05-09 12 min

In episode 35 of the Better German Podcast , I am going to give you an introduction to German cases. And we are discussing here the very basics - what are cases at all? Why do we have them? Other languages ​​get along just fine without them, so what are they really? Want to go further with your German?Workshop: Discover the three biggest mistakes that keep people stuck with German—and what to do instead—in the free live workshop. It is also the first step to do if you are interested in taking a course, as you will see how we teach. https://bettergerman.info/workshopCourse: Get Talking German uses a completely different approach to help you understand and use German faster.https://bettergerman.info/coursePodcast Community: Get all podcast resources in one place inside the Better German Podcast Community and ask your questions there.https://bettergerman.info/community
34 Words for Travelling in Germany or Austria
Helpful Words as a Tourist in Vienna or anywhere in the German Speaking Area

2024-05-02 26 min

This episode of the Better German podcast provides a comprehensive guide for travelers to German-speaking countries, focusing on essential German words, tips for accommodations, supermarkets, pharmacies, public transport, entertainment options, and restaurants.  Download the free PDF with the words here . Want to go further with your German?Workshop: Discover the three biggest mistakes that keep people stuck with German—and what to do instead—in the free live workshop. It is also the first step to do if you are interested in taking a course, as you will see how we teach. https://bettergerman.info/workshopCourse: Get Talking German uses a completely different approach to help you understand and use German faster.https://bettergerman.info/coursePodcast Community: Get all podcast resources in one place inside the Better German Podcast Community and ask your questions there.https://bettergerman.info/community
33 Introduction to Informal and Formal Communication in German

2024-04-25 11 min

In this episode of the Better German Podcast , Susie Blumel goes into the topic of formal and informal communication in the German language. She explains how the usage of different forms depends on the level of familiarity with the person you are addressing, and how this can vary in social or professional settings, providing practical examples for better comprehension. Want to go further with your German?Workshop: Discover the three biggest mistakes that keep people stuck with German—and what to do instead—in the free live workshop. It is also the first step to do if you are interested in taking a course, as you will see how we teach. https://bettergerman.info/workshopCourse: Get Talking German uses a completely different approach to help you understand and use German faster.https://bettergerman.info/coursePodcast Community: Get all podcast resources in one place inside the Better German Podcast Community and ask your questions there.https://bettergerman.info/community
32 Uncommon German Vocabulary: gerne, gell etc.
Learn Some Unexpected Words You Won't Find in Books

2024-04-18 19 min

In Episode 32 of the Better German Podcast, Susi introduces and explains the meanings of typical German words like 'eh', 'jö', 'gell', 'na ja', and 'gerne'. It also touches on the Better German Academy, a project aiming to provide comprehensive learning materials for German language learners. Want to go further with your German?Workshop: Discover the three biggest mistakes that keep people stuck with German—and what to do instead—in the free live workshop. It is also the first step to do if you are interested in taking a course, as you will see how we teach. https://bettergerman.info/workshopCourse: Get Talking German uses a completely different approach to help you understand and use German faster.https://bettergerman.info/coursePodcast Community: Get all podcast resources in one place inside the Better German Podcast Community and ask your questions there.https://bettergerman.info/community
31 The Sound of Music
Is Austria like the movie?

2024-04-11 13 min

Welcome to Episode 31 of the Better German Podcast ! In this episode, we will talk about 'The Sound of Music' from an Austrian perspective, discussing its historical context, the impact of World War II, and the portrayal of Austrian traditions. We will go into the reason why The Sound of Music was literally successful everywhere but in Austria and Germany. But how much of The Sound of Music is actually alive? Just the hills? Want to go further with your German?Workshop: Discover the three biggest mistakes that keep people stuck with German—and what to do instead—in the free live workshop. It is also the first step to do if you are interested in taking a course, as you will see how we teach. https://bettergerman.info/workshopCourse: Get Talking German uses a completely different approach to help you understand and use German faster.https://bettergerman.info/coursePodcast Community: Get all podcast resources in one place inside the Better German Podcast Community and ask your questions there.https://bettergerman.info/community
30 To Be in German

2024-04-04 25 min

This Episode of the Better German Podcast covers the different forms of the verb 'to be' in German, providing examples and explanations for each form. You will also hear about gender in German nouns and get information about resources for learning the language with ease. Want to go further with your German?Workshop: Discover the three biggest mistakes that keep people stuck with German—and what to do instead—in the free live workshop. It is also the first step to do if you are interested in taking a course, as you will see how we teach. https://bettergerman.info/workshopCourse: Get Talking German uses a completely different approach to help you understand and use German faster.https://bettergerman.info/coursePodcast Community: Get all podcast resources in one place inside the Better German Podcast Community and ask your questions there.https://bettergerman.info/community
29 How Long Does it Take to Learn German
Some Guidelines to Give you an Idea What to Expect

2024-03-28 13 min

Welcome to Episode 29 of the Better German Podcast! This episode discusses the time it takes to learn German, covering different levels of proficiency, hours of learning required on average to learn the different levels, and what to expect to be able to do when you have learned the level. If you are trying to figure out how long it will take you to reach your individual goal of learning German, this episode can help you! Want to go further with your German?Workshop: Discover the three biggest mistakes that keep people stuck with German—and what to do instead—in the free live workshop. It is also the first step to do if you are interested in taking a course, as you will see how we teach. https://bettergerman.info/workshopCourse: Get Talking German uses a completely different approach to help you understand and use German faster.https://bettergerman.info/coursePodcast Community: Get all podcast resources in one place inside the Better German Podcast Community and ask your questions there.https://bettergerman.info/community
28 How Much Practice do We Need when Learning German

2024-03-20 15 min

In this episode of the Better German Podcast , Susi Blümel discusses the significance of practice in learning German. She stresses the need for a balance between theory and practice, providing examples and guidelines for effective practice. Susi emphasizes that consistent and substantial practice is essential for mastery of the language, and she offers practical tips for learners to improve their speaking abilities. Want to go further with your German?Workshop: Discover the three biggest mistakes that keep people stuck with German—and what to do instead—in the free live workshop. It is also the first step to do if you are interested in taking a course, as you will see how we teach. https://bettergerman.info/workshopCourse: Get Talking German uses a completely different approach to help you understand and use German faster.https://bettergerman.info/coursePodcast Community: Get all podcast resources in one place inside the Better German Podcast Community and ask your questions there.https://bettergerman.info/community
27 Introduction to Parts of Speech for Learning German

2024-03-13 29 min

Hello and welcome to the Better German Podcast! In this episode, we'll discuss the most important parts of speech in the German language. Host Susi Blumel breaks down the fundamental components of language, from nouns and articles to verbs and adverbs, offering clear explanations in both English and German. By the end of this episode, you'll have a deeper understanding of these essential building blocks of German, paving the way for more effective language learning. So, whether you're a beginner or looking to broaden your linguistic knowledge, stay tuned for a comprehensive introduction to the parts of speech in German. Want to go further with your German?Workshop: Discover the three biggest mistakes that keep people stuck with German—and what to do instead—in the free live workshop. It is also the first step to do if you are interested in taking a course, as you will see how we teach. https://bettergerman.info/workshopCourse: Get Talking German uses a completely different approach to help you understand and use German faster.https://bettergerman.info/coursePodcast Community: Get all podcast resources in one place inside the Better German Podcast Community and ask your questions there.https://bettergerman.info/community
26 I, you, he, she, it... in German

2024-03-07 14 min

Hello and welcome to Episode 26 of the Better German Podcast! The host, Susi Blümel, introduces the personal pronouns in the German language, including the basic translations for 'I,' 'you,' 'he,' 'she,' 'it,' 'we,' 'you' (plural), and 'they.' She explains the use of personal pronouns in relation to gendered nouns and also mentions the different forms of address in German for formal and informal situations. Want to go further with your German?Workshop: Discover the three biggest mistakes that keep people stuck with German—and what to do instead—in the free live workshop. It is also the first step to do if you are interested in taking a course, as you will see how we teach. https://bettergerman.info/workshopCourse: Get Talking German uses a completely different approach to help you understand and use German faster.https://bettergerman.info/coursePodcast Community: Get all podcast resources in one place inside the Better German Podcast Community and ask your questions there.https://bettergerman.info/community
25 Guide to Learn German Nouns
What you Need to Learn and How

2024-02-29 21 min

Hello and welcome to the Better German Podcast ! In this episode, the host, Susie Blumel, provides a beginner's guide on learning German nouns. She emphasizes the importance of focusing on nouns when first learning the language and provides tips on how to effectively learn and remember them. Susie explains the key components of learning nouns, such as writing and pronouncing the word, understanding its meaning, identifying the article, and learning the plural form. She also encourages using the words in sentences to solidify learning. If you haven't already, jump into the Better German Podcast Community and get free access to all the previous PDF worksheets with wordlists you can use for practice! It's also a great place for you if you have been thinking you need to memorize thousands of words or master endless grammar rules. In this community, we teach German in a clear, simple way—so it actually works! Want to go further with your German?Workshop: Discover the three biggest mistakes that keep people stuck with German—and what to do instead—in the free live workshop. It is also the first step to do if you are interested in taking a course, as you will see how we teach. https://bettergerman.info/workshopCourse: Get Talking German uses a completely different approach to help you understand and use German faster.https://bettergerman.info/coursePodcast Community: Get all podcast resources in one place inside the Better German Podcast Community and ask your questions there.https://bettergerman.info/community
24 Tips to Learn to Speak German
How to Talk German Soon

2024-02-15 24 min

In this episode, we are going into the common trouble of being able to speak German, despite "Learning German". Find out what you can do so start talking from the beginning of your German learning experience! Get the the free PDF Learn German with Movies and TV Shows (that replaces the former Movie Guide) Want to go further with your German?Workshop: Discover the three biggest mistakes that keep people stuck with German—and what to do instead—in the free live workshop. It is also the first step to do if you are interested in taking a course, as you will see how we teach. https://bettergerman.info/workshopCourse: Get Talking German uses a completely different approach to help you understand and use German faster.https://bettergerman.info/coursePodcast Community: Get all podcast resources in one place inside the Better German Podcast Community and ask your questions there.https://bettergerman.info/community
23 Easy Practice Sentences in German
Practice German Plural with Words from Earlier Episodes

2024-02-08 16 min

Hello and welcome to Episode 23 of the Better German Podcast with your host, Susi! This episode continues on the subject of the last episode (22), where the German plural was introduced. In this episode, host Susi will give you the plural forms for simple German words about the body and a room. There is a PDF with the words and their translations that you can access by joining the Better German Community. This is also a great place for you if you have been thinking you’re “bad at languages.” To be honest, you’re not—the method was just wrong. By the way, want to know what course fits you best?📚You can book a free appointment, fill out a short survey, and I’ll guide you through a plan that makes sense for your level and goals! Want to go further with your German?Workshop: Discover the three biggest mistakes that keep people stuck with German—and what to do instead—in the free live workshop. It is also the first step to do if you are interested in taking a course, as you will see how we teach. https://bettergerman.info/workshopCourse: Get Talking German uses a completely different approach to help you understand and use German faster.https://bettergerman.info/coursePodcast Community: Get all podcast resources in one place inside the Better German Podcast Community and ask your questions there.https://bettergerman.info/community
22 How Can We Speak of More Than One Thing in German?
The German Plural

2024-02-01 22 min

Welcome to Episode 22 of the Better German Podcast! In this episode, I am going to give you an introduction to the German plural. The episode focuses on explaining the concept of noun plurals in German and mentions different ways of forming plurals, such as adding letters or changing vowels. The script also highlights the importance of learning articles and provides examples of plural forms for various words. Want to go further with your German?Workshop: Discover the three biggest mistakes that keep people stuck with German—and what to do instead—in the free live workshop. It is also the first step to do if you are interested in taking a course, as you will see how we teach. https://bettergerman.info/workshopCourse: Get Talking German uses a completely different approach to help you understand and use German faster.https://bettergerman.info/coursePodcast Community: Get all podcast resources in one place inside the Better German Podcast Community and ask your questions there.https://bettergerman.info/community
21 Differences of Austrian and German German
A Short Guide to Understanding Regional Differences of the German Language

2024-01-25 19 min

Hello! In this episode of the Better German Podcast, Susi Blümel discusses the differences between the Austrian and German versions of the German language. She covers the areas where German is spoken, the population differences between Germany and Austria, the common written language, and the variations in spoken language and dialects. She also provides advice on learning different regional dialects and understanding Hochdeutsch, the standard form of the German language. Want to go further with your German?Workshop: Discover the three biggest mistakes that keep people stuck with German—and what to do instead—in the free live workshop. It is also the first step to do if you are interested in taking a course, as you will see how we teach. https://bettergerman.info/workshopCourse: Get Talking German uses a completely different approach to help you understand and use German faster.https://bettergerman.info/coursePodcast Community: Get all podcast resources in one place inside the Better German Podcast Community and ask your questions there.https://bettergerman.info/community
20 Easy Sentences in German - What is that? That is a _______.

2024-01-18 29 min

Hello! This is Episode 20 of the Better German Podcast. You will learn a Sentence Pattern, you will learn to say "What is that?" and "That is..." in German. Your host, Susi, will also give you tips on how to practice this, either with a study partner or by yourself. And do not worry, if you want more support learning German, you can simply get into the Better German Community for live lessons, PDF worksheets for this and previous episodes, and friendly help! Want to go further with your German?Workshop: Discover the three biggest mistakes that keep people stuck with German—and what to do instead—in the free live workshop. It is also the first step to do if you are interested in taking a course, as you will see how we teach. https://bettergerman.info/workshopCourse: Get Talking German uses a completely different approach to help you understand and use German faster.https://bettergerman.info/coursePodcast Community: Get all podcast resources in one place inside the Better German Podcast Community and ask your questions there.https://bettergerman.info/community
19 German Levels and Exams Made Simple
What do A1, A2, B1, B2, C1 and C2 mean?

2024-01-11 26 min

Welcome to Episode 19 of the Better German Podcast! In this episode, Susi explains the different levels of German language proficiency and exams. She gives you details about each level, from A1 to C2, and gives you information on what you need each level for, as travel, work, and studying. She also tells you about the relationship between actually learning the language and passing the exams, and why she thinks it is problematic to learn for the exams. This episode is perfect for you to become oriented in the world of language levels and to see which level you need to aim for and what you can expect from each level. Want to go further with your German?Workshop: Discover the three biggest mistakes that keep people stuck with German—and what to do instead—in the free live workshop. It is also the first step to do if you are interested in taking a course, as you will see how we teach. https://bettergerman.info/workshopCourse: Get Talking German uses a completely different approach to help you understand and use German faster.https://bettergerman.info/coursePodcast Community: Get all podcast resources in one place inside the Better German Podcast Community and ask your questions there.https://bettergerman.info/community
18 Learn to Say the German Alphabet
Learning the Alphabet as a First Step to Master German Pronunciation

2024-01-04 39 min

Hello and welcome to the Better German Podcast! In this episode, Susi Blümel teaches the German alphabet, pronunciation, and special letter combinations. You will get examples and translations for each letter and combination. Learning the alphabet is a step towards mastering German pronunciation and learning to read German. Find the free PDF that goes with this episode at https://bettergerman.info/alphabet Want to go further with your German?Workshop: Discover the three biggest mistakes that keep people stuck with German—and what to do instead—in the free live workshop. It is also the first step to do if you are interested in taking a course, as you will see how we teach. https://bettergerman.info/workshopCourse: Get Talking German uses a completely different approach to help you understand and use German faster.https://bettergerman.info/coursePodcast Community: Get all podcast resources in one place inside the Better German Podcast Community and ask your questions there.https://bettergerman.info/community
17 Pay for a German Course - Yes or No?
Pay for a Course or Learn for Free?

2023-12-28 11 min

Welcome to Episode 17 of the Better German Podcast! In this episode, we are looking at the question of why someone should pay for a German course instead of learning for free on YouTube - or should you? What works better in what situations? We are looking at this subject so you can figure out for yourself if it works better for you to use free materials you can find or avail yourself of a paid course. Want to go further with your German?Workshop: Discover the three biggest mistakes that keep people stuck with German—and what to do instead—in the free live workshop. It is also the first step to do if you are interested in taking a course, as you will see how we teach. https://bettergerman.info/workshopCourse: Get Talking German uses a completely different approach to help you understand and use German faster.https://bettergerman.info/coursePodcast Community: Get all podcast resources in one place inside the Better German Podcast Community and ask your questions there.https://bettergerman.info/community
16 Festivals and Holidays in Austria in Winter Part 2
Vienna Christmas Markets and Winter Traditions: Snow, Lights, and Festive Celebrations

2023-12-14 31 min

This is an episode about festivals and holidays in autumn and winter in Austria. It is the second part of the episode, and the focus is on the time before Christmas and Christmas in Vienna. The host, Susi Blümel, talks about the weather, traditions, and experiences related to these festivals and holidays. She also mentions other events such as Advent, St. Nicholas Day, and New Year's Eve. The episode includes a word list with translations and suggestions for learning German words related to the topic. Want to go further with your German?Workshop: Discover the three biggest mistakes that keep people stuck with German—and what to do instead—in the free live workshop. It is also the first step to do if you are interested in taking a course, as you will see how we teach. https://bettergerman.info/workshopCourse: Get Talking German uses a completely different approach to help you understand and use German faster.https://bettergerman.info/coursePodcast Community: Get all podcast resources in one place inside the Better German Podcast Community and ask your questions there.https://bettergerman.info/community
15 Which Words are Written with a Big Letter in German?

2023-12-07 14 min

Welcome to Episode 15 of the Better German Podcast ! In this episode, we will cover the basic rules of capitalization in German. Capitalization means writing some words with a big letter (capital) at the beginning of the word. German is the only language that writes many words other than names and the beginnings of sentences with a capital letter. We are going to cover the basic rules and make sure you will not get confused about this when learning German. Want to go further with your German?Workshop: Discover the three biggest mistakes that keep people stuck with German—and what to do instead—in the free live workshop. It is also the first step to do if you are interested in taking a course, as you will see how we teach. https://bettergerman.info/workshopCourse: Get Talking German uses a completely different approach to help you understand and use German faster.https://bettergerman.info/coursePodcast Community: Get all podcast resources in one place inside the Better German Podcast Community and ask your questions there.https://bettergerman.info/community
14 - Introduction to Watching Movies to Learn German
Have Fun with Movies and TV Shows while Learning German

2023-11-30 24 min

Hello and welcome to the Better German Podcast ! In this episode, we will explore the benefits of watching German movies and TV shows with subtitles as a tool to aid in learning the German language. This is great for both independent learners and students who are taking a course or classes. In this episode, we will also cover programs on Amazon, Netflix, Disney+, and YouTube. For each one of these platforms, we will cover specific movie or TV show recommendations that are suitable for different levels - advanced beginners, intermediate students, upper intermediate, and advanced. To help you learn faster, get this Free PDF with my best movie recommendations. (This PDF Guide replaces the former interactive movie guide that is no longer working) Want to go further with your German?Workshop: Discover the three biggest mistakes that keep people stuck with German—and what to do instead—in the free live workshop. It is also the first step to do if you are interested in taking a course, as you will see how we teach. https://bettergerman.info/workshopCourse: Get Talking German uses a completely different approach to help you understand and use German faster.https://bettergerman.info/coursePodcast Community: Get all podcast resources in one place inside the Better German Podcast Community and ask your questions there.https://bettergerman.info/community
13 Festivals in Autumn and Winter in Austria and Germany
Part 1 of a Holiday Special for Thanksgiving and the autumn time

2023-11-23 37 min Susanne Schilk-Blümel

Welcome to Episode 13 of the Better German Podcast with your host, Susi. This episode focuses on special days, holidays, and festivals in the German-speaking area throughout autumn and winter. Highlights include coverage of Austria's diverse traditions and the Austrian national holiday. Furthermore, language and cultural nuances concerning religious holidays, cultural festivals, and national events are discussed. Susi also compares Thanksgiving to holidays in Austria. Alongside these points, she mentions the upcoming guide for watching German TV shows and movies that will be released in the upcoming episode. Want to go further with your German?Workshop: Discover the three biggest mistakes that keep people stuck with German—and what to do instead—in the free live workshop. It is also the first step to do if you are interested in taking a course, as you will see how we teach. https://bettergerman.info/workshopCourse: Get Talking German uses a completely different approach to help you understand and use German faster.https://bettergerman.info/coursePodcast Community: Get all podcast resources in one place inside the Better German Podcast Community and ask your questions there.https://bettergerman.info/community
12 Learn German Words about an Office or Classroom
A lot of Practice for Beginners

2023-11-16 21 min

Episode 12 of the Better German Podcast is an audio version of a lesson from the Beginner German Course. The lesson covers a list of words about objects commonly found in a classroom or office. You will get audio repetition for pronunciation practice, and you will learn actively by repeating words and translations aloud. Get the PDF with the words in the Better German Podcast community. You will find all podcast resources in there and so much more. It is also the home of the Better German Courses. Want to go further with your German?Workshop: Discover the three biggest mistakes that keep people stuck with German—and what to do instead—in the free live workshop. It is also the first step to do if you are interested in taking a course, as you will see how we teach. https://bettergerman.info/workshopCourse: Get Talking German uses a completely different approach to help you understand and use German faster.https://bettergerman.info/coursePodcast Community: Get all podcast resources in one place inside the Better German Podcast Community and ask your questions there.https://bettergerman.info/community
11 The 7 Best Tips to Learn German

2023-11-09 15 min

Welcome to Episode 11 of the Better German podcast with y. In this episode, Susi offers her top seven tips for individuals trying to learn the German language. These include practical for learners of all levels, no matter if they are already attending a course or not. So, if you are learning German and want to make faster progress or have more fun doing it, or if you want to get started – this episode is for you! And if you haven't already, make sure to join the Better German Podcast Community to connect with other listeners, access exclusive resources, and take your German to the next level! Want to go further with your German?Workshop: Discover the three biggest mistakes that keep people stuck with German—and what to do instead—in the free live workshop. It is also the first step to do if you are interested in taking a course, as you will see how we teach. https://bettergerman.info/workshopCourse: Get Talking German uses a completely different approach to help you understand and use German faster.https://bettergerman.info/coursePodcast Community: Get all podcast resources in one place inside the Better German Podcast Community and ask your questions there.https://bettergerman.info/community
10 Greeting and Introduction in German Part 2

2023-11-02 18 min Susanne Schilk-Blümel

Welcome to Episode 10 of the Better German podcast, hosted by Susi Blümel! This episode is focused on German greetings and introductions and represents the second part of this topic. Susi outlines common German phrases and provides their English translations, offering cultural and linguistic context for each one. She also asks listeners to repeat the phrases for practice. She recommends that listeners download a PDF of the script for further practice, available when you become a member of the Better German Community. You’ll find worksheets for this and other episodes there, too!   To wrap up, Susi invites you to sign up for her newsletter, share the podcast, and check out her online German courses if you’re ready to go deeper. Want to go further with your German?Workshop: Discover the three biggest mistakes that keep people stuck with German—and what to do instead—in the free live workshop. It is also the first step to do if you are interested in taking a course, as you will see how we teach. https://bettergerman.info/workshopCourse: Get Talking German uses a completely different approach to help you understand and use German faster.https://bettergerman.info/coursePodcast Community: Get all podcast resources in one place inside the Better German Podcast Community and ask your questions there.https://bettergerman.info/community
9 Greeting and Introducing Yourself in German

2023-10-26 19 min Susanne Schilk-Blümel

In this episode, you are going to learn all the basic words you need to understand phrases to introduce yourself and greet other people, and you will also learn the phrases. This is something you should learn early on, so dive into it and have fun! Want to go further with your German?Workshop: Discover the three biggest mistakes that keep people stuck with German—and what to do instead—in the free live workshop. It is also the first step to do if you are interested in taking a course, as you will see how we teach. https://bettergerman.info/workshopCourse: Get Talking German uses a completely different approach to help you understand and use German faster.https://bettergerman.info/coursePodcast Community: Get all podcast resources in one place inside the Better German Podcast Community and ask your questions there.https://bettergerman.info/community
8 How Much Grammar Do We Need when Learning German?
Grammar vs. Communication: Striking the Right Balance in Language Learning

2023-10-12 14 min

We're diving deep into a topic that many of us grapple with when learning a new language: Grammar. How much grammar is really necessary? Should we sweat over every rule and tense, or is there a better way? In this episode, we'll explore the importance of striking a balance between grammar and practical application. I'll share some insights on how overemphasis on grammar can hinder our progress and confidence. We'll also discuss the power of learning sentence patterns, the significance of vocabulary, and the gradual improvement we can achieve, just like a child learning their first words. So, let's unlock the secrets of mastering German without getting lost in the sea of grammar rules. If traditional courses left you confused or frustrated, you’ll love our approach! If you’d like to see what a different approach to learning German looks like in action and understand why German feels unnecessarily hard for so many learners, join my free live workshop “How to Actually Learn German.” I’ll walk you through what usually goes wrong — and what actually makes progress possible. https://bettergerman.info/workshop Want to go further with your German?Course: Get Talking German uses a completely different approach to help you understand and use German faster.https://bettergerman.info/coursePodcast Community: Get all podcast resources in one place inside the Better German Podcast Community and ask your questions there.https://bettergerman.info/community
7 Learn Your First Sentences in German!
Sentence Pattern "That is the ________" with Body Parts

2023-10-05 26 min

Welcome to a new episode of the Better German podcast! In this episode, we will be exploring the fascinating world of sentence patterns in the German language. I, Susi Blümel, your host, will guide you through this episode, which is actually one of the earliest videos in our A1.1 course. Check out our Better German courses here. We will focus on a specific sentence pattern, "That is _____," and I will teach you how to fill in the blank correctly. This method of learning grammar through sentence patterns is both efficient and enjoyable. With between 100 and 150 sentence patterns, you will have a solid foundation of the basic language of German. In this episode, we will be using vocabulary related to body parts, building upon what we learned in the previous episode. So join me on this language learning journey as we master sentence patterns and expand our German vocabulary. Let's get started! If you’d like to see what a different approach to learning German looks like in action and understand why German feels unnecessarily hard for so many learners, join my free live workshop “How to Actually Learn German.” I’ll walk you through what usually goes wrong — and what actually makes progress possible. https://bettergerman.info/workshop Want to go further with your German?Course: Get Talking German uses a completely different approach to help you understand and use German faster.https://bettergerman.info/coursePodcast Community: Get all podcast resources in one place inside the Better German Podcast Community and ask your questions there.https://bettergerman.info/community
6 Learn German Words for Body Parts

2023-09-28 20 min

In this episode of the Better German podcast, you will learn a list of words - body parts - in German! This is a great list for total beginners, it is also good as a review, or if you want to learn the correct articles for the words. You will learn the meaning and the pronunciation of these words by repeating. I encourage you to get the PDF with the written-out words and translation by simply becoming a member of the Better German Community and experiencing for yourself how we make it easier (and more fun)! The next episode, Episode Seven (7), builds on this one, and you will learn to say sentences with these words. Want to go further with your German?Workshop: Discover the three biggest mistakes that keep people stuck with German—and what to do instead—in the free live workshop. It is also the first step to do if you are interested in taking a course, as you will see how we teach. https://bettergerman.info/workshopCourse: Get Talking German uses a completely different approach to help you understand and use German faster.https://bettergerman.info/coursePodcast Community: Get all podcast resources in one place inside the Better German Podcast Community and ask your questions there.https://bettergerman.info/community
5 Introduction to German Articles
Are They Important and What Do They Mean?

2023-09-21 15 min

In this episode of the Better German podcast, you will be provided with an introduction to articles in the German language. I will give you an introduction to what articles are, as you will start meeting right from the beginning of your language journey. I will describe the meaning (something which is left out very often) and what function they serve in German. I compare the limited number of articles in English (such as "a" and "the") to the slightly more numerous articles in German ("ein", "eine", and "der," "die," "das"). Remember, you don’t need to memorize thousands of words or master endless grammar rules. In the Better German Community, we teach German in a clear, simple way—so it actually works. In this episode, I also discuss how articles can indicate specificity or generality, and how they are essential for constructing correct sentences in German. While acknowledging that some learners find articles challenging, I will explain the importance of learning them from the beginning and give you a bit of an outlook on what's to come already in the next episode, and that through repetition and interactive exercises, you will become comfortable using German articles. Overall, this episode aims to provide a foundational understanding of articles in German and encourage you to get a got start with them right away. Want to go further with your German?Workshop: Discover the three biggest mistakes that keep people stuck with German—and what to do instead—in the free live workshop. It is also the first step to do if you are interested in taking a course, as you will...
4 How to Learn German
Find out how to Learn German correctly - or why you could not

2023-09-14 15 min

In this episode of the Better German Podcast , Susi Blümel introduces the approach she is using to teach German. She emphasizes the importance of speaking and practicing the language, rather than solely focusing on grammar rules. Susi encourages learners to adopt a natural approach, similar to how they learned their native language. She explains the effectiveness of repetition and the use of sentence patterns to create meaningful and practical sentences.    She also highlights the need for consistent practice in order to become comfortable and fluent in speaking German. Overall, this episode provides valuable insights into a different approach to learning German that focuses on practicality and real-life communication. Want to go further with your German?Workshop: Discover the three biggest mistakes that keep people stuck with German—and what to do instead—in the free live workshop. It is also the first step to do if you are interested in taking a course, as you will see how we teach. https://bettergerman.info/workshopCourse: Get Talking German uses a completely different approach to help you understand and use German faster.https://bettergerman.info/coursePodcast Community: Get all podcast resources in one place inside the Better German Podcast Community and ask your questions there.https://bettergerman.info/community
3 Key Words about Learning German
Some words that you may run into

2023-09-14 27 min

In this episode of the Better German podcast, your host, Susi Blümel, breaks down some of the most important words and concepts every German learner should know. Whether you're just starting or brushing up on your skills, understanding the language of learning is key! 😩 Tried learning German before and got stuck on the grammar? The Better German Community takes a different approach—no overwhelm, just real progress through understanding and practice. Quickly sign up here to get this episode's freebie, the PDF worksheet you can practice with! In this episode, Susi further emphasizes the importance of finding a German course that is accessible and understandable for beginners, suggesting that having a course in one's native language or at least in English can be beneficial. Want to go further with your German?Workshop: Discover the three biggest mistakes that keep people stuck with German—and what to do instead—in the free live workshop. It is also the first step to do if you are interested in taking a course, as you will see how we teach. https://bettergerman.info/workshopCourse: Get Talking German uses a completely different approach to help you understand and use German faster.https://bettergerman.info/coursePodcast Community: Get all podcast resources in one place inside the Better German Podcast Community and ask your questions there.https://bettergerman.info/community
2 Reasons to Learn German
Why Would You Learn German?

2023-09-14 23 min

In this episode of the Better German podcast, host Susi discusses the reasons why learning German is beneficial. Susi emphasizes the importance of learning German for individuals living in German-speaking countries, as it allows for better integration into the local community and enhances communication with natives. She also highlights the advantages of speaking German when dealing with official matters and navigating legal systems. Additionally, Susi emphasizes the benefits of learning German for travelers, as it opens up new opportunities for exploration and deeper cultural understanding. Furthermore, she explains the career advantages of speaking German, both in terms of job prospects and the potential for bilingual positions. By the way, this episode includes a free PDF worksheet for practice. Hop into the Better German Community to access this and other episodes' resources!    Want to go further with your German?Workshop: Discover the three biggest mistakes that keep people stuck with German—and what to do instead—in the free live workshop. It is also the first step to do if you are interested in taking a course, as you will see how we teach. https://bettergerman.info/workshopCourse: Get Talking German uses a completely different approach to help you understand and use German faster.https://bettergerman.info/coursePodcast Community: Get all podcast resources in one place inside the Better German Podcast Community and ask your questions there.https://bettergerman.info/community
1 Introduction to the Better German Podcast
Unleashing Your German Language Skills: Insights from a Skilled German Teacher

2023-09-07 11 min

Hey there! Welcome to Better German—the podcast that makes learning German finally feel doable and fun!  I’m Susi, your host, and I couldn't be more excited to launch this podcast! Whether you’ve just begun learning German, you’ve tried before and felt stuck, or you’re curious about how to get started, this podcast is for you.   In each episode, we’ll explore effective learning techniques, share hand-picked resources, and even dive into specific tips for learning German while living in or visiting Vienna. In this first episode, I’ll give you a quick overview of what to expect from the show, what’s coming up, and how Better German can help you make real progress—no matter where you’re starting from.So grab your headphones, and let’s begin! Want to go further with your German?Workshop: Discover the three biggest mistakes that keep people stuck with German—and what to do instead—in the free live workshop. It is also the first step to do if you are interested in taking a course, as you will see how we teach. https://bettergerman.info/workshopCourse: Get Talking German uses a completely different approach to help you understand and use German faster.https://bettergerman.info/coursePodcast Community: Get all podcast resources in one place inside the Better German Podcast Community and ask your questions there.https://bettergerman.info/community