Leisure time means relaxation, experiences, and time for oneself – or does it? For many, it also means spending money, and more than they'd like. The leisure industry is booming and growing rapidly, raising the question: How free are we really in how we spend our free time when the budget often dictates the pace? In this episode, find out what lies behind the "I'm doing this for myself" illusion, what the (free) leisure desires of Germans look like, and what we as a society can do to shape the future of leisure according to our needs. This episode will not only explain why selfishness is often irrational and how it increases mistrust between people, but also explore approaches to fostering compassion and working together towards a more equitable future.

The last weeks of the year are a time for reflection and peace – at least in theory. But how do Germans actually spend the holidays? Is family the focus, or are more and more people packing their bags to celebrate under palm trees? In this episode, we not only take a look at Christmas and New Year's traditions in Germany and share surprising facts, but also give a few tips on how to truly start the new year relaxed.

Egoism has no place in our society anymore – more and more Germans agree on this. But what drives selfish behavior, and how can we break free from it? In a time when prosperity often triggers fear of loss and a competitive mindset, solidarity becomes a key skill. In this episode, you'll learn not only why egoism is often irrational and how it reinforces mistrust between people, but also what approaches exist to foster compassion and work together towards a more equitable future.

Why does donating make us happy? And how does it affect our life satisfaction? In this episode, learn how income, as well as cultural and religious motives, shape our donation behavior and what Germans prefer to donate to. We talk about the most generous donors and, as always, take a look at the future: how important will donations be for our society in the future, and what does increasing technology mean for our willingness to give?

How do Germans get their information in a time rife with fake news and filter bubbles? While the younger generation increasingly relies on social media, traditional news sources are falling behind. In this episode, we discuss how the information-seeking behavior of Germans is evolving, the role influencers play, and how to ensure quality journalism. We also take a look at future developments and offer predictions on how the information landscape might change in the coming years.

Video games have long been an integral part of everyday life for many Germans. The gaming industry is growing rapidly, driven by technological innovations and societal changes. But who actually plays, and what impact does playing video games have on us? In this episode, you'll learn some fun facts about gaming, what exactly e-sports is, and whether it has Olympic potential. We'll also take a look at the future and where the industry might be headed.