How did Berlin, with no real economy in the '90s, become a global leader?

We unlock the incredible journey of Berlin from a divided city to one of the most influential global hubs for creativity, culture, and startups.
Our special guest, Rainer Seider, has been a driving force behind Berlin's internationalization, playing a pivotal role in shaping its rise on the world stage.

As the Head of the Unit of International Affairs at the Senate Chancellery of Berlin, Rainer has fostered connections and positioned the city as a central player in global affairs. Berlin’s transformation didn’t happen overnight, it was a careful balance of attracting international talent, embracing diversity, and creating an ecosystem for innovation.

In this episode, Rainer takes us through Berlin’s past, present, and future, shedding light on what made the city the cultural powerhouse it is today.
But this episode isn’t just about growth, it’s about magic. Rainer’s novel, Nur ein Spiel (Just a Game), serves as a metaphor for Berlin itself: how the city’s transformation mirrors the magic in his story, and how that very magic is what makes Berlin irresistible to dreamers, innovators, and entrepreneurs alike.

[00:00] - Introduction: A New Berlin After the Wall

• Rainer reflects on moving to Berlin post-Wall, sharing his reasons for choosing a city in the midst of transformation.

[06:30] - Shaping Berlin’s Global Identity

• Rainer discusses his role in positioning Berlin as a global city and attracting international talent and collaborations.

[14:10] - Berlin’s Magic: What Rainer’s Novel Reveals

• He talks about his novel, Nur ein Spiel, and how its magical realism mirrors Berlin’s own transformation.

[20:00] - The Startup Boom: Berlin's Global Impact

• Rainer explains how Berlin became a startup hub, drawing entrepreneurs from across the globe due to its unique cultural and economic environment.

[30:40] - Berlin: A City of Contradictions

• Personal reflections on Berlin’s challenges, from its winters to urban development, and how the city balances creativity with practical concerns.

[39:00] - The Future of Berlin in Global Affairs

• Rainer shares his thoughts on Berlin’s future role in global politics, emphasizing the city’s leadership in sustainability and innovation.

[48:30] - The Vision for the Next Decade

• Rainer envisions Berlin’s future, focusing on education, technology, and global engagement to maintain its leadership.

[57:00] - Closing Thoughts: What Makes Berlin Irresistible

• Rainer reflects on why Berlin continues to draw people worldwide and what makes it an exciting place for the future.