The German Pole(cast)

Max & Zbig

This podcast is for foreign people in Poland by two friends in Poland, and our main goal is to give you some background information about tips and tricks to visit or to live in Poland. Max, my friend, worked in Krakow and lives here; he will share some memories and feedback about his start in Poland; there are factual and laugh stories included here. My role here is to provide you with feedback and legal tips on how to do it correctly. If you have any problems or suggestions for further episodes, email us: agermanguyinpoland@gmail.com

  1. 6d ago

    S04: Episode 2: Unscripted Poland – Częstochowa with The GermanPole(cast)

    Hello listeners! What lies beyond Częstochowa’s most famous landmark? In this episode of The GermanPole(cast), Zbig and Max return with Poland Unscripted to explore a city where faith, history and everyday life meet. From Jasna Góra Monastery and the Black Madonna to the city’s iconic Aleja Najświętszej Maryi Panny, we talk about the places and traditions that shape Częstochowa’s identity. We also look at its industrial past and share our personal experiences, impressions and stories. In this episode, we talk about: • Jasna Góra and its place in Polish history and culture. • The city’s famous avenue and everyday atmosphere. • Częstochowa’s industrial heritage. • Discovering the city beyond its best-known attractions. Join us for an honest, relaxed conversation about another side of Poland—with local perspectives and a few stories along the way. Let us know if you have any questions after this episode by sending us an e-mail at: agermanguyinpoland@gmail.com

  2. Oct 9

    S04: Episode 1: Unscripted Poland – A Weekend in Kraków with The GermanPole(cast)

    Hello listeners! In this episode of The GermanPole(cast), we bring you another edition of Unscripted Poland, taking you along for a weekend in Kraków, one of Poland’s most historic, vibrant, and fascinating cities. Instead of following a traditional tourist itinerary, we share our personal experiences of three days spent exploring Kraków, enjoying local food, discovering its famous pubs, watching football, and experiencing the atmosphere of everyday Polish city life. In this episode, we talk about: Friday in Kraków – starting the weekend with a visit to the Wisła Kraków stadium to watch a football match, followed by a walk through the city centre and an evening of drinks and football discussions in local pubs. Saturday breakfast at Piekarnia Pietka – discovering one of Kraków’s breakfast spots before heading out to explore the city. Kazimierz – walking through Kraków’s historic district, known for its Jewish heritage, distinctive architecture, atmospheric streets, cafés, and bars. Nowa Huta – exploring a completely different side of Kraków, with its socialist-era urban planning, monumental architecture, and fascinating history. Kraków's nightlife – experiencing the city's bars, pubs, and social atmosphere after sunset. Sunday breakfast at Charlotte – starting the final day with another breakfast before returning to the streets of Kazimierz. Football, friends, and Polish culture – discussing the importance of football in Polish social life and sharing our impressions of the city's unique atmosphere. Throughout the episode, we also reflect on what makes Kraków such a special destination, from its rich history and diverse neighbourhoods to its food, nightlife, and football culture. This is not a typical travel guide or a list of must-see tourist attractions. It is simply Kraków as we experienced it – three days of spontaneous discoveries, good food, football, conversations, and time spent with friends. Whether you have already visited Kraków, are planning your first trip to Poland, or simply want to discover more about Polish cities and everyday life, join us for this unscripted journey through one of the country's most iconic destinations. Let us know if you have any questions after this episode by sending us an e-mail at: agermanguyinpoland@gmail.com Enjoy listening and do widzenia!

  3. Sep 27

    S02: Episode 19: Expert Interview: Media Expert – Poland's Electronics Retail Champion

    Hello listeners! In this episode of The GermanPole(cast), Zbig and Max explore the story of Media Expert and its rise from a regional retailer to a leading name in Poland’s electronics market. What has helped this Polish company compete so successfully with international brands? They discuss the key elements of its business strategy, including: A nationwide store network reaching smaller cities and towns. The integration of online shopping and physical stores. Investments in logistics, digital infrastructure and fast deliveries. Competitive pricing and recognizable marketing campaigns. Financial performance and competition with RTV Euro AGD and MediaMarkt. The conversation also explores what Media Expert’s success tells us about Poland’s economy and the strength of domestic businesses. Whether you are interested in retail, curious about Polish brands or looking to understand how local companies compete with global players, this episode offers a closer look at the business behind a familiar name. Let us know if you have any questions after this episode by sending us an e-mail at: agermanguyinpoland@gmail.com

  4. Sep 12

    S02: Episode 18: Expert Interview: Grupa Maspex – Poland’s FMCG Champion and CEE Food Powerhouse

    Hello listeners! In this episode of The GermanPole(cast), Zbig and Max take a closer look at Grupa Maspex and its journey from a local producer in Wadowice to a major food and beverage group in Central and Eastern Europe. They explore the brands behind its success, including Tymbark, Kubuś, Lubella, Łowicz, and Żubrówka, and discuss how strategic acquisitions and international expansion have shaped the company’s growth. They also examine Maspex’s role in the Polish economy, the importance of its regional roots, and what its story reveals about Polish private entrepreneurship. From everyday supermarket products to international business strategy, this episode introduces listeners to the company behind some of Poland’s most familiar brands. Let us know if you have any questions after this episode by sending us an e-mail at: agermanguyinpoland@gmail.com

  5. Aug 28

    S01: Episode 14: Law Tips with Zbig and Max: Legalising Work in Poland – Work Permits, praca.gov.pl and the State Labour Inspectorate

    Hello listeners! In this episode of the German Pole(cast), we break down everything employers and foreign workers should know about legalising work in Poland, including: Who actually issues a work permit and what role the State Labour Inspectorate plays How to submit a work permit application through the praca.gov.pl portal Why legal stay in Poland does not automatically mean that a foreign national may legally work How long the competent authority should take to issue a decision Whether a foreign national may work while the employer is waiting for a new work permit When work may legally continue after an existing permit or registered declaration expires What documents and employment conditions may be checked during a PIP inspection Whether a formal ponaglenie can be submitted in new work permit proceedings and what an employer may do if the case is delayed Practical legal tips to help employers avoid illegal employment and prepare an inspection-ready documentation file Whether you are an employer planning to hire a foreign national, a foreign worker waiting for a permit, or someone involved in international recruitment in Poland, this episode gives you the practical legal knowledge you need to understand the process and avoid common mistakes. Let us know if any questions will appear after this episode be sending us an e-mail at: agermanguyinpoland@gmail.com

  6. Aug 15

    S02: Episode 17: Expert Interview: PKO Bank Polski, Poland’s Banking Giant

    Hello listeners! In this episode of The GermanPole(cast), Zbig and Max take a closer look at PKO Bank Polski — Poland’s largest bank and one of the country’s most important financial institutions. They discuss its historical role, financial strength, importance to the Polish economy, state ownership, and ongoing digital transformation. They also compare PKO with its main competitors, including ING Bank Śląski, Santander Bank Polska, mBank, and Bank Pekao, and consider what makes PKO such a unique and strategically important player in the Polish banking sector. Let us know if you have any questions after this episode by sending us an e-mail at: agermanguyinpoland@gmail.com

  7. Jul 31

    S02: Episode 16: Expert Interview: Tymbark – From a Small Polish Town to a National Brand

    Hello listeners! In this episode of The GermanPole(cast), Zbig and Max explore how Tymbark grew from a small local fruit-processing company into one of Poland’s most recognizable beverage brands. They discuss its strong market position, emotional connection with consumers, role within the Maspex Group, competition with global companies, and the challenges it may face in the future. Let us know if any questions will appear after this episode be sending us an e-mail at: agermanguyinpoland@gmail.com

  8. Jul 18

    S01: Episode 13: Law Tips with Zbig and Max: Renting Contracts

    Hello listeners! In this episode of the German Pole(cast), we break down everything every foreigner should know before renting a home in Poland, including: The difference between a standard lease and an occasional lease What you should always check before signing a contract Why a detailed handover report and photos can save you from expensive disputes Who is responsible for repairs—and what counts as normal wear and tear When a lease can be terminated by you or your landlord Special legal rules for Ukrainian beneficiaries of temporary protection Practical legal tips to help you avoid common mistakes and protect your rightsWhether you're moving to Poland for work, studies, or a fresh start, this episode gives you the legal knowledge you need to rent with confidence.Let us know if any questions will appear after this episode be sending us an e-mail at: agermanguyinpoland@gmail.com

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About

This podcast is for foreign people in Poland by two friends in Poland, and our main goal is to give you some background information about tips and tricks to visit or to live in Poland. Max, my friend, worked in Krakow and lives here; he will share some memories and feedback about his start in Poland; there are factual and laugh stories included here. My role here is to provide you with feedback and legal tips on how to do it correctly. If you have any problems or suggestions for further episodes, email us: agermanguyinpoland@gmail.com

Information

  • Creator
    Max & Zbig
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    65
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Max & Zbig
  • Show Website
    The German Pole(cast)