Tell Me, Dad!

In this episode I turn the question around and ask Dad what he learned from me. He shares how I often brought a different perspective into his life, along with humor that helped not take things too seriously. He talks about how I was able to prioritize what really matters, knowing when to let go of perfectionism, and how I was always open to trying new things — especially when it came to food. It’s a light but meaningful conversation about learning from each other, no matter the direction, and how influence within a family goes both ways.

In this episode I ask Dad whether he believes life has a purpose. He reflects on how his sense of purpose has changed throughout his life. What felt important in his twenties was very different from what matters to him today. Rather than believing in one single purpose for life, he explains that purpose can depend on the area of life you look at, whether it is family, work, or personal growth. Still, one idea has remained constant for him: to be of value to the people around you. It’s a thoughtful conversation about meaning, changing priorities, and how our understanding of purpose evolves over time.

In this episode I ask Dad whether he believes life is fair or unfair. He reflects on the many opportunities life has given him and explains that we also have to be fair to life by recognizing and taking those opportunities when they appear. He shares that he has never really asked himself “Why does this happen to me?” even during very difficult moments, including when he was diagnosed with cancer. His perspective is simple: some things in life can happen to anyone. Looking back, he says that all in all he believes life has been fair. It’s a thoughtful conversation about gratitude, resilience, and the mindset that shapes how we experience the ups and downs of life.

In this episode I ask Dad about the difference between knowledge and experience. He explains why a good education is an important foundation, but why real understanding often comes from experience — especially when it comes to working with people and navigating the human side of business. We also talk about how times have changed. Dad reflects on how today less hands-on experience is often required, particularly in management roles, and how success now depends much more on personality, communication, and self-awareness. It’s a thoughtful discussion about learning, leadership, and adapting to a changing world.

In this episode I ask Dad whether change or regret causes greater pain in life. He reflects on his career and personal journey, sharing that he has very few regrets and has learned to live with the pain that comes from them. When it comes to change, he explains that it was rarely painful — in fact, change often pushed him forward and brought more growth and happiness. It’s a thoughtful conversation about courage, perspective, and choosing movement over standing still, even when it feels uncomfortable.

In this episode I ask Dad about the difference between being alone and feeling lonely. He talks about the value of spending time with yourself, especially in stressful phases of life, and how learning to be comfortable on your own can bring clarity and strength. We also reflect on how the younger generation often fears being alone and constantly seeks distraction. That leads into a broader conversation about work ethic, patience, and how attitudes toward effort and responsibility have changed over time. It’s an honest and thoughtful discussion about self-reflection, balance, and what it really means to feel fulfilled.

In this episode I ask Dad about his plans for the new year. He talks about wanting to travel more, spend time with his oldtimer, and say yes to more moments that bring excitement. He also shares that he wants to chase new adventures like visiting airshows, getting into the world of flying, and maybe even doing a bit of flying himself someday. It’s a hopeful and energizing conversation about new beginnings, rediscovering old passions, and trying things just because they spark joy and curiosity.

In this episode I ask Dad where his passion for cars — especially Porsche — began. He shares how that fascination was first sparked and how it grew over the years. Along the way, he tells funny and memorable stories about the cars he’s owned throughout his life, from early models all the way to his dream car, a Porsche 964. It’s a lighthearted and nostalgic conversation about passion, dreams, and the joy of carrying childhood fascinations into adulthood.

In this episode I ask Dad where his love for music truly began — and it takes us through some of his favorite chapters of life. He talks about being a teenager trying to play guitar (even though, as we both admit, neither of us has any real musical talent), and how his years in the United States and Brazil opened his ears to completely new styles and rhythms. We also talk about our shared love for country music and laugh about the coincidence that we recently listened to almost the same songs without knowing it. Even “Whiskey in the Jar” by Metallica came up — definitely on the harder side for both of us. It’s a warm, nostalgic conversation about how music shapes you, even when you can’t play a single chord properly.

In this episode, probably the funniest one so far, I ask Dad about his favourite memories with our family. He shares hilarious stories from my baby years — like the time I peed on him — as well as unforgettable family vacations. From me eating an entire red snapper in Cyprus or a trip to Madeira with adrenaline-filled drives around the island that almost ended with a burnt clutch, it’s a conversation full of laughter, nostalgia, and the chaos that makes family life so special. It’s a joyful reminder of the moments that stay with us forever and the stories that make a family unique.

In this episode I ask Dad what having fun looked like in his childhood — long before screens and smartphones. He shares stories about stealing lilacs from gardens, playing endless games of soccer, and riding his bike everywhere with his friends. He also talks about building a homemade cannon just for the thrill of it, and the short-lived attempt to start a band together. It’s a playful and nostalgic conversation about simple joys, childhood freedom, and the kind of adventures that stay with you for a lifetime.

In this episode I ask Dad what dating was like when he was young — long before smartphones and social media. He tells stories about the disco era, Saturday Night Fever, dancing the Disco Fox, and going out for milkshakes on Saturday nights. We talk about what dating meant back then — the excitement, the nerves, and the effort it took to actually meet someone and ask them out. It’s a fun and nostalgic conversation about youth, confidence, and how dating has changed (and in some ways, hasn’t) over the years.

In this episode I ask Dad how he liked Dublin when he visited me recently. We talk about his first impressions of the city, the places he enjoyed, and his experience exploring it for the first time. The conversation then turns deeper when I ask about the similarities between him and his father. He reflects on traits like sharing, helping others, and valuing craftsmanship — qualities that were central to his father’s life and that he sees in himself today. We talk about the lessons his father passed down, how they shaped the way he approaches work, family, and relationships, and why certain values feel timeless. It’s a personal look at legacy, the bonds between generations, and the small but meaningful ways a parent influences who we become.

In this episode I ask Dad about the things he still dreams of doing. From getting his pilot license to owning a sailing boat, he shares the adventures he still wants to experience. Most importantly, he talks about his passion for travelling more and exploring the world. It’s an inspiring conversation about curiosity, chasing dreams, and making time for the things that truly excite you.

In this episode I ask Dad how you can forgive someone who has truly hurt you. He opens up about his first marriage and how finding distance helped him reach closure and move on. We also talk about forgiveness beyond personal relationships — how to deal with people in your professional life who let you down or treat you unfairly. It’s a raw and thoughtful conversation about pain, perspective, and the strength it takes to let go.

In this episode I ask Dad how he handled failure throughout his life. He shares three stories that shaped the way he thinks about setbacks. The first two are about moments when colleagues tried to create intrigues against him and how he managed to navigate those situations with calm and integrity. The third story takes us to the United States, where he initially struggled to impress his boss and had to prove himself step by step. It is an honest conversation about resilience, self-belief, and the lessons that come from falling short and getting back up again.

In this episode I ask Dad how he knew Mom was the person he wanted to spend his life with. He shares their love story, the moments that made her stand out then and still make her special today, and how she has been his partner not only in life but also in building his company and raising me. It is a heartfelt conversation about love, partnership, and the quiet ways two people build a life together.

In this episode I ask Dad what he believes is the biggest lie about growing older. He shares that for most of his life he hardly thought about aging at all, almost as if it would never really happen to him. Looking back, he now sees that belief as an illusion. We talk about how this realization changed the way he views time and priorities. Today he thinks in shorter time frames, lives each day with more intention, and places far less importance on money than he once did. It is a thoughtful conversation about time, perspective, and what truly matters as the years pass.

In this episode I ask Dad what he wishes he had known about money when he was younger. He shares memories of collecting paper as a kid to earn a few coins, and how that early hustle shaped the way he thought about work and value. We talk about his journey from those small jobs to becoming a CEO and leading successful companies, and how his view of money and its real importance evolved along the way. It is a conversation about ambition, perspective, and what wealth truly means.

In this episode I ask Dad what becoming a father taught him. It turns into a heartfelt conversation about family, responsibility, and the way life changes when you hold your child for the first time. Dad also opens up about my difficult birth and the moment when we almost lost my mom. It is an honest and emotional discussion about fear, gratitude, and what it truly means to be a parent.

In this episode I ask Dad which values guided him through the hardest moments of his life. He reflects on challenges in his career, the painful break up with his first wife, and the early death of his father. Out of these reflections two main values stand out in the end. It is an open and honest conversation about resilience, what really matters when life feels uncertain, and how staying true to your values can help you move forward.

In this episode I ask Dad a question we have all heard before. Is “follow your passion” really good advice? His answer is yes but with a twist. We talk about why passion matters, what most people misunderstand about it, and how to turn it into something that works in real life. It is a conversation about dreams, hard work, and finding the balance between doing what you love and making it last.

WE ARE BACK! In the first episode of Season 2 we sit down to catch up on everything that has happened since our last conversation. Dad opens up about his fight with prostate cancer and the heartbreaking loss of our dog Lotte. We also share some brighter moments like my university graduation and the special vacation I was able to give Mum and Dad. We end the episode by talking about what is coming up this season and the conversations we are most excited to have.

In the final episode of Season 1 of "Tell Me, Dad!", my father takes a moment to reflect on his incredible journey. He summarizes the key moments from his life—his challenges, triumphs, and the lessons learned along the way. From navigating personal and professional highs to overcoming setbacks, he shares the most crucial takeaways that shaped his path. This episode offers a powerful conclusion to Season 1, filled with insights on resilience, adaptability, and the importance of staying true to one’s values. It's a thoughtful and inspiring reflection on a life well-lived, leaving listeners with valuable lessons to carry forward.

In this reflective fourteenth episode of "Tell Me, Dad!", my father shares the touching story of how one of his board members became a great friend over time, only to pass away later from cancer. The loss was deeply felt, highlighting the powerful connections that can form in the professional world. He also recounts his experience in Germany, where he joined a company in the Eifel region. Despite the financial success he achieved there, my dad reveals how he struggled with the company’s unique culture, which felt drastically different from his time in the U.S. This episode explores the bittersweetness of friendship, the challenges of adapting to new environments, and the complex nature of professional fulfillment.

In this thirteenth episode of "Tell Me, Dad!", my father reflects on the five most meaningful years of his life after selling his company. He shares how being part of an incredible board of directors became the best and most enriching experience of his career, offering immense personal and professional growth. He also touches on some cherished family memories, like buying toys for me during his trips to the USA, our vacations together, and bringing home our dog, Lotte. Now, 16 years later, Lotte is still part of the family. This episode celebrates the fulfilling blend of career achievements and precious moments with loved ones.

In this inspiring twelfth episode of "Tell Me, Dad!", my father shares how he transformed his small startup into a million-dollar business, eventually selling it to a group of investors while remaining as CEO. The journey from humble beginnings to success was full of challenges, but his determination and strategic vision led to incredible growth. Alongside the business triumph, my dad also reflects on his personal life, detailing how he grew closer to my mom during this time. He shares the heartwarming story of how they eventually married, with me being born just a year later.

In this exciting eleventh episode of "Tell Me, Dad!", my father shares the story of how he started his own company, diving into the high-stakes world of entrepreneurship. He took a massive risk, forgoing his salary and securing a bank loan of 800,000 Deutsch Marks to fund the venture. Despite the challenges, his hard work began to pay off. After just one year, an American company approached him with an offer to take over his business. But instead of accepting, my dad held firm and negotiated a deal that would change everything—a 50/50 joint venture. What seemed like a monumental turning point in his career, however, was sealed by an unexpected moment: a night at a Kegel alley. This episode dives into the risk-taking, negotiation tactics, and serendipitous moments that defined my dad’s entrepreneurial journey. Tune in for a story of grit, strategy, and how sometimes the best business deals happen in the most unlikely places.

In this powerful tenth episode of "Tell Me, Dad!", my father begins by reflecting on the emotional toll of his divorce, a difficult personal chapter that deeply affected him. As he navigated the challenges of his personal life, he faced a sudden professional setback when the owner of the company he worked for let him go. The owner’s decision came as a result of an emotional reaction, a decision that ultimately led to my dad’s departure despite his hard work and the success he brought to the company through joint ventures in India and Thailand. Amidst the turmoil, my dad also shares a surprising and heartwarming twist—how he met my mum, who, as it turns out, had been his secretary all along. This episode delves into the complexities of navigating career setbacks, personal loss, and unexpected love, highlighting the resilience and strength required to keep moving forward through it all.

In this insightful ninth episode of "Tell Me, Dad!", my father opens up about a pivotal turning point in his career. After working for 20 years at a company that eventually went bankrupt, he found himself starting over at a smaller, struggling firm. Faced with the challenge of turning the company around, he shares how he used his skills to secure a crucial bank loan by delivering an outstanding presentation that impressed the financial backers. But the story doesn’t end there. My dad also recounts the creative and tenacious approach he used to get a Brazilian customer to finally pay up after they had failed to settle their debt. This episode is a testament to perseverance, clever problem-solving, and the resilience required to thrive in tough business situations. Tune in for a story of reinvention, overcoming adversity, and the hustle required to keep moving forward.

In this riveting eighth episode of "Tell Me, Dad!", my father shares his unforgettable experiences doing business in Russia and India. He tells the story of his Austrian representative, who had a unique ability to get them into the embassy—where the only good food could be found—by pretending to know the ambassadors. These visits became more than just business; they were also a way to escape the challenges of dining in a foreign country. But the adventure takes a darker turn in India, where a customer, eager to pressure him into signing a contract, kidnapped my dad. The intense experience and how he managed to outsmart his captors is a story of resilience and quick thinking. This episode is packed with suspense, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the dangers and ingenuity required when doing business in challenging environments. Tune in for a gripping tale of survival, business negotiation, and the unexpected twists of international dealings!

In this insightful seventh episode of "Tell Me, Dad!", my father shares his return to Germany and his shift into the world of marketing. As he navigated this new career path, he discovered a crucial flaw in many German companies—while they excelled at building top-tier products, they often failed to understand their customers' real needs. This realization opened his eyes to the importance of customer-centric strategies and how product development should align with market demand. From there, my dad recounts how he applied his marketing expertise to land a major breakthrough—selling a machine to international airlines like United. He shares the strategies he used, the challenges he faced, and the satisfaction of successfully connecting a great product with the right customers. This episode is a deep dive into the power of marketing, understanding customer needs, and the rewards of a well-executed sales strategy.

In this powerful sixth episode of "Tell Me, Dad!", my father reflects on the birth of my brother in Brazil and the incredible warmth and friendliness he experienced from the Brazilian people. He shares how the community embraced them during this life-changing time, making it a memorable chapter of their lives. However, as much as he loved the culture and the connections they formed, my dad also speaks candidly about the dangers and challenges Brazil posed. He reveals how the realities of safety concerns ultimately led him to make the difficult decision to return to Germany. This episode is a blend of admiration for Brazil’s vibrant spirit and the harsh lessons that sometimes shape the choices we make. Tune in for an intimate story about family, culture, and the complex realities of living abroad.

In this engaging fifth episode of "Tell Me, Dad!", my father shares his experiences as he begins to settle into life in Brazil. He recounts the challenges and excitement of finding a new home in a vibrant and unfamiliar culture. However, the adventure takes an unexpected turn when he decides to bring a computer from the U.S. to Brazil without proper documentation. Join us as he narrates the harrowing experience of being apprehended by authorities and spending a few hours in jail—a story filled with tension, humor, and valuable lessons about navigating life in a new country. This episode highlights the ups and downs of starting fresh in a different land, showcasing the resilience and adaptability required to embrace new beginnings. Tune in for a mix of laughter and life lessons that resonate across borders!

In this exciting fourth episode of "Tell Me, Dad!", my father shares a pivotal moment in his life when he made the bold decision to leave the U.S. behind for a new adventure in Brazil. After indulging in four refreshing caipirinhas during his first visit to Rio de Janeiro, he signed a job offer, only to wake up the next morning with little recollection of the momentous decision he’d made! Join us as he reflects on the spontaneity of that decision, the thrill of embracing a new culture, and the lessons learned along the way. This episode is a celebration of adventure, the unexpected paths life can take, and the courage it takes to follow them. Get ready for a captivating tale that highlights the joys of exploration and the excitement of starting anew!

In this captivating third episode of "Tell Me, Dad!", my father continues to share his adventures in America, unveiling the ups and downs of establishing himself in a new country. He recounts the excitement of buying his first car, a moment filled with pride and anticipation. However, the joy takes a turn when he shares the unforgettable story of how a colleague accidentally crashed it. As he settles into his new life, my dad introduces us to his neighbors, offering insights into the friendships and connections that helped him feel at home in this foreign land. Join us for another engaging conversation as we explore the themes of adaptation, community, and the unforgettable experiences that shape our lives.

In this exciting second episode of "Tell Me, Dad!", my father shares the start of his journey to America and the cultural lessons he learned during his time there. From navigating a new environment to adapting to different workplace dynamics, he reflects on the challenges he faced as an outsider. Hear the gripping story of how, just two months into his new job, he found himself on the brink of being fired. My dad recounts the pivotal moments that shaped his understanding of the importance of embracing new experiences. Join us for this engaging conversation that highlights the power of resilience and the invaluable lessons learned from stepping outside one’s comfort zone.

In the first episode of "Tell Me, Dad!", I sit down with my father to explore the foundational years of his life. He opens up about the impact of losing his father at a young age and how that shaped his outlook on life and family. We also dive into his first work experiences, sharing the lessons he learned along the way. Join us as we uncover the stories that forged his character and set the stage for the incredible journey that followed.