How It Ticks: The Swiss Culture, Business & Life Podcast
How It Ticks is a podcast that explores Swiss culture, business, innovation, and tradition. Hosted by an Australian expat, each episode features one-on-one interviews with experts and thought leaders, offering insights into what makes Switzerland unique. The podcast is designed for listeners curious about the inner workings of Swiss society.
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How Safe Is Switzerland in a Power-Based World Economy?
Jan-Egbert Sturm is the Director of the KOF Swiss Economic Institute at ETH Zurich and one of Switzerland’s leading macroeconomists.In this episode, we explore how Switzerland is navigating an increasingly unpredictable global economy. Jan-Egbert explains how resilient the Swiss economy really is, why Switzerland was hit so hard by recent US tariffs, and what early effects Swiss exporters are alre
Whats Next After Protesting, A Guide To Systemic Change
My guest today is Nora Wilhelm, a systems change strategist, social innovator, and co-founder of Collaboratio Helvetica. Her work focuses on helping people and organizations understand the complex systems that shape society and what needs to happen to implement real, lasting change.Expect to learn about the magnitude of global problems and why traditional approaches often fail. We discuss what it
The Swiss Military: How A Neutral Country Prepares For War
My guest today is Mathias Müller, an elected member of the SVP party in the Grand Council of the Canton of Bern. He is a career officer in the Swiss Army and was previously the commander of recruitment for the Swiss Armed Forces. In addition to his military and political work, he is an author and hosts the official podcast of the Swiss Armed Forces.Expect to learn about the paradox of a peaceful n
How the Swiss trade with China: The Secret to Their Success | Sebastian Huber
My guest today is Sebastian Huber, an expert in global trade and luxury goods with a deep focus on the business dynamics of Asia, particularly China. As a lecturer and researcher at the Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts, and with a background that includes global roles at luxury brands like Montblanc, he brings a unique perspective on Switzerland's place in the global market.Expe
Switzerland's Plastic Paradox: Why We Burn 85% of Our Waste | Javier Pérez-Ramirez
My guest today is Javier Pérez-Ramírez, a full Professor of Catalysis Engineering at ETH Zurich, director of the NCCR Catalysis, and Chair of the Editorial Board of Green Chemistry. He and his team design chemical solutions to solve one of the world’s biggest environmental challenges, plastic waste. His work has been widely recognized with several awards.Expect to learn about the magnitude of the
The Truth About Intelligence & The Swiss Education System | Elsbeth Stern
Elsbeth Stern is a cognitive psychologist and Professor Emeritus of Teaching-Learning Research at ETH Zurich. We delve into her extensive expertise to gain a deeper understanding of intelligence, its development, and its role in a changing world. The conversation addresses common myths about learning and provides a critical look at modern education.Expect to learn about what intelligence really is
Best Hikes in Switzerland 2025! | Swiss Family Fun PT2
My guest today is Tanya Deans, the creator and author of the popular Swiss hiking blog, Swiss Family Fun. Tanya's journey from a Swiss expat to a leading guide in Swiss travel has made her blog a go-to resource for anyone looking to explore the country's incredible hiking trails and experiences.Expect to learn about top hike recommendations for various groups, including visiting families,
How to Scale a Passion Project in Switzerland | Swiss Family Fun PT1
My guest today is Tanya Deans, the creator and author of the popular Swiss hiking blog, Swiss Family Fun. Tanya's journey from a Swiss expat to a leading guide in Swiss travel has made her blog a go-to resource for anyone looking to explore the country's incredible hiking trails and experiences.Expect to learn about the inspiration behind Swiss Family Fun and its evolution from a personal
Ticinese in Australia: Swiss Gold Rush Adventures | Untold Swiss History Stories PT5
James Blake Wiener, a historian, writer, and Co-Founder of the World History Encyclopedia, joins How It Ticks to explore remarkable Swiss stories throughout history. His research illuminates global history through unique cross-cultural exchanges and individual narratives.This is Part 5 of our special 5-part series, focusing on The Ticinese and the Australian Gold Rush. We delve into the compelling
Johann Ludwig Burckhardt: Swiss Explorer Who Rediscovered Petra | Untold Swiss History Stories PT4
James Blake Wiener, a historian, writer, and Co-Founder of the World History Encyclopedia, joins How It Ticks to explore remarkable Swiss stories throughout history. His research illuminates global history through unique cross-cultural exchanges and individual narratives.This is Part 4 of our special 5-part series, focusing on Johann Ludwig Burckhardt: An Intrepid Swiss Explorer. We delve into the
Albert Gallatin A Swiss Founding Father | Untold Swiss History Stories PT3
James Blake Wiener, a historian, writer, and Co-Founder of the World History Encyclopedia, joins How It Ticks to explore remarkable Swiss stories throughout history. His research illuminates global history through unique cross-cultural exchanges and individual narratives.This is Part 3 of our special 5-part series, focusing on Albert Gallatin: A Swiss Founding Father. We delve into the life and pr
The Sinking of the Lusitania | Untold Swiss History Stories PT2
James Blake Wiener, a historian and writer, and a Co-Founder of the World History Encyclopedia, joins me to discuss Swiss stories throughout history. His work explores various aspects of global history, often highlighting cross-cultural exchanges and the narratives of individuals.Expect to learn about the experiences of Swiss passengers on the Titanic and the Lusitania, the role of Albert Gallatin
Swiss on the Titanic | Untold Swiss History Stories PT1
James Blake Wiener, a historian, writer, and Co-Founder of the World History Encyclopedia, joins How It Ticks to explore remarkable Swiss stories throughout history. His research illuminates global history through unique cross-cultural exchanges and individual narratives.This is Part 1 of our special 5-part series, focusing specifically on The Swiss on the Titanic. We delve into the little-known s
How Switzerland Helped Land on a Comet | Swiss Astrophysicist
Kathrin Altwegg, astrophysicist and professor emerita at the University of Bern, joins me to discuss Switzerland’s surprising role in global space science. As the head of the ROSINA project—one of the key instruments aboard the European Space Agency’s Rosetta mission—Kathrin played a central role in helping humanity land on a comet for the first time.Expect to learn how Switzerland became a respec
Switzerland’s WWII Story: Remaining Neutral in a Divided Europe | Jakob Tanner PT2
Jakob Tanner, professor emeritus of modern history at the University of Zurich, joins me to explore Switzerland’s role in World War II and what it really meant to be a “neutral” country surrounded by Nazi-occupied Europe.Expect to learn what daily life looked like for Swiss citizens during the war, how the country balanced fear of invasion with domestic stability, and why the Reduit strategy focus
Switzerland’s WWII Story: Remaining Neutral in a Divided Europe | Jakob Tanner PT1
Jakob Tanner, professor emeritus of modern history at the University of Zurich, joins me to explore Switzerland’s role in World War II and what it really meant to be a “neutral” country surrounded by Nazi-occupied Europe.Expect to learn what daily life looked like for Swiss citizens during the war, how the country balanced fear of invasion with domestic stability, and why the Reduit strategy focus
Professor of Criminal Law: How Switzerland Punishes Crime Without Destroying Lives PT2
Nora Markwalder, former prosecutor and professor of criminal law and criminology at the University of St. Gallen, joins me to unpack how Switzerland’s criminal justice system really works. Drawing on her deep experience across criminal procedure, white-collar crime, and criminology, Nora explains what happens from the moment a crime is investigated all the way to sentencing.Expect to learn how Swi
Professor of Criminal Law: How Switzerland Punishes Crime Without Destroying Lives PT1
Nora Markwalder, former prosecutor and professor of criminal law and criminology at the University of St. Gallen, joins me to unpack how Switzerland’s criminal justice system really works. Drawing on her deep experience across criminal procedure, white-collar crime, and criminology, Nora explains what happens from the moment a crime is investigated all the way to sentencing.Expect to learn how Swi
Switzerland’s Political System Is Unlike Any Other | Patricia Schafer
Patricia Schafer, a Swiss political scientist, civic educator, and militia politician who’s built her career around understanding and participating in the country’s political system joins me to unpack the inner workings of Swiss democracy.Expect to learn what makes Switzerland’s political system so unique, why it allows citizens to vote on nearly everything, and how that shapes the country’s cultu
Shifting Careers? How to Reposition Your Personal Brand | Alex Mari PT2
Alex Mari, a personal branding expert, digital marketing strategist, and university lecturer, joins me to explore how professionals can build and reshape their personal brand—especially later in their careers. With a background spanning academia, startups, and corporate leadership, Alex now helps individuals and organisations understand the growing importance of visibility, consistency, and authen
Shifting Careers? How to Reposition Your Personal Brand | Alex Mari PT1
Alex Mari, a personal branding expert, digital marketing strategist, and university lecturer, joins me to explore how professionals can build and reshape their personal brand—especially later in their careers. With a background spanning academia, startups, and corporate leadership, Alex now helps individuals and organisations understand the growing importance of visibility, consistency, and authen
The Surprising Truth About Protein & Meat Alternatives | Laura Hackl
Laura Hackl, a leading expert in protein science, nutrition, and sustainability, joins me to explore the future of food and how innovative solutions are addressing global challenges. With a career spanning research on nutrient absorption to developing alternative proteins, Laura shares insights into the science behind what we eat and its broader implications.Expect to learn the key differences bet
The Reality of Wealth & Social Mobility in Switzerland | Melanie Häner-Müller PT2
Melanie Häner-Müller, an economist specializing in social mobility, income inequality, and economic policy, returns to discuss the realities of income and wealth inequality in Switzerland. As the head of Social Policy at the Institute for Swiss Economic Policy (IWP) in Lucerne, her research has shaped public discussions on economic fairness, social welfare, and the gap between perception and reali
The Reality of Wealth & Social Mobility in Switzerland | Melanie Häner-Müller PT1
Melanie Häner-Müller, an economist specializing in social mobility, income inequality, and economic policy, joins me to break down how opportunity is shaped by history, policy, and perception. As the head of Social Policy at the Institute for Swiss Economic Policy (IWP) in Lucerne, Melanie has researched Switzerland’s welfare system, education policies, and economic mobility, with her work widely
The Truth About Fertility That No One Talks About | Lisa Falco PT2
Lisa Falco, a data scientist, digital health expert, and leading figure in women’s health technology, joins me to unpack the science of fertility and reproductive health. With a PhD in Biomedical Imaging and a wealth of experience in FemTech, including her role as Director of Data Science at Ava, Lisa has been at the forefront of leveraging technology to help women better understand their bodies.E
The Truth About Fertility That No One Talks About | Lisa Falco PT1
Lisa Falco, a data scientist, digital health expert, and leading figure in women’s health technology, joins me to unpack the science of fertility and reproductive health. With a PhD in Biomedical Imaging and a wealth of experience in FemTech, including her role as Director of Data Science at Ava, Lisa has been at the forefront of leveraging technology to help women better understand their bodies.E
Suicide as a Human Right & Sarco Pod Controversies | Philip Nitschke PT2
In this episode, Philip reflects on his journey as the first doctor to administer a legal, voluntary, lethal injection and the emotional and professional challenges that followed. We discuss the ongoing Swiss federal investigation into the first use of the Sarco Pod in Schaffhausen, the role of mental health and age in assisted suicide decisions, and the broader ethical and societal implications.
Suicide as a Human Right & Sarco Pod Controversies | Philip Nitschke PT1
In this episode, Philip reflects on his journey as the first doctor to administer a legal, voluntary, lethal injection and the emotional and professional challenges that followed. We discuss the ongoing Swiss federal investigation into the first use of the Sarco Pod in Schaffhausen, the role of mental health and age in assisted suicide decisions, and the broader ethical and societal implications.
Global Debt, Tariffs & Extreme Government Cuts | Stefan Legge PT 2
Stefan Legge, Vice Director and Head of Tax & Trade Policy at the University of St. Gallen, joins me to unpack the economic forces shaping Switzerland and the world. With his expertise in trade, debt, and policy reform, Stefan explores how small countries like Switzerland navigate a rapidly changing global economy.
Expect to learn why free trade agreements with countries like China and India a
Global Debt, Tariffs & Extreme Government Cuts | Stefan Legge PT 1
Stefan Legge, Vice Director and Head of Tax & Trade Policy at the University of St. Gallen, joins me to unpack the economic forces shaping Switzerland and the world. With his expertise in trade, debt, and policy reform, Stefan explores how small countries like Switzerland navigate a rapidly changing global economy.
Expect to learn why free trade agreements with countries like China and India a
The Science of Better Sleep & Health | Caroline Lustenberger PT 2
Caroline Lustenberger, a leading sleep researcher with a PhD in neuroscience from ETH Zurich, joins me to uncover the truths about sleep and its impact on our health and well-being. With her deep expertise, Caroline explores the science behind how and why we sleep, debunks common myths, and provides practical advice for improving sleep quality.
Expect to learn why the “8-hour rule” doesn’t apply t
The Science of Better Sleep & Health | Caroline Lustenberger PT 1
Caroline Lustenberger, a leading sleep researcher with a PhD in neuroscience from ETH Zurich, joins me to uncover the truths about sleep and its impact on our health and well-being. With her deep expertise, Caroline explores the science behind how and why we sleep, debunks common myths, and provides practical advice for improving sleep quality.
Expect to learn why the “8-hour rule” doesn’t apply t
Understanding Climate Risk: Preparing for the Worst | Annemarie Büttner
Annemarie Büttner, Lead of Climate Risk Solutions at Swiss Re, joins me to explore how businesses and communities can adapt to the growing threats of climate change. With her expertise in climate risk modeling and real-world case studies, Annemarie sheds light on the tangible impacts of climate risks and the strategies companies can adopt to build resilience.
Expect to learn how climate risk model
Switzerland’s Digital Banking Revolution | Jörg Sandrock PT 2
Jörg Sandrock, CEO of Neon , joins me for a candid conversation about shaking up Switzerland’s traditional banking landscape. As the leader of one of Switzerland’s first challenger banks, Jörg offers insights into what it takes to disrupt an industry deeply rooted in convention.
Expect to learn why Switzerland has been slow to embrace digital banking, how Neon is navigating the balance between sim
Switzerland’s Digital Banking Revolution | Jörg Sandrock PT 1
Jörg Sandrock, CEO of Neon, joins me for a candid conversation about shaking up Switzerland’s traditional banking landscape. As the leader of one of Switzerland’s first challenger banks, Jörg offers insights into what it takes to disrupt an industry deeply rooted in convention.
Expect to learn why Switzerland has been slow to embrace digital banking, how Neon is navigating the balance between simp
AI, Jobs, and Switzerland’s Workforce | Dr. Michael Grampp
Dr. Michael Grampp is the Chief Economist and Head of Research at Deloitte Switzerland, with deep expertise in understanding economic trends and workforce dynamics. The conversation dives into the transformative role of AI in reshaping industries, Switzerland’s unique job market, and the challenges and opportunities of a rapidly changing economic landscape.
Expect to learn about how generative AI
Unpacking Swiss History, Identity, and Culture | Diccon Bewes
In this episode, I sit down with Diccon Bewes, the renowned author of Swiss Watching, Slow Train to Switzerland, and Around Switzerland in 80 Maps. Diccon takes us through Switzerland’s fascinating history, exploring what unites the country despite its linguistic and cultural diversity.
Expect to learn about Switzerland’s unique path to neutrality, the evolution of its famous train network (origin
The Key to Financial Freedom & Smart Investing | Baptiste Wicht (The Poor Swiss)
In this episode, speak with Baptiste Wicht, creator of The Poor Swiss blog, to explore the journey toward financial independence and how to optimize wealth while living in Switzerland. Baptiste shares practical advice on frugality, budgeting, and investing, providing listeners with actionable tips to take control of their finances.
Expect to learn about Baptiste's top frugality strategies, his fav
Inside Switzerland Tourism: Trends, Strategies and Hidden Gems You Don’t Know About!
In this episode, I sit down with Markus, spokesperson for Switzerland Tourism to explore the inner workings of Switzerland’s tourism industry. We discuss the various strategies and campaigns aimed at attracting tourists from different regions, and how the demographic of travellers to Switzerland is evolving. Markus also shares insights on what younger generations, like Gen Z, prioritize when visit
Switzerland’s Place in Global Politics: A Conversation with Bloomberg’s Bureau Chief of Switzerland
Alessandro Speciale is the Switzerland bureau chief for Bloomberg News. In this episode, we explore Switzerland's role in global affairs and how Switzerland navigates neutrality in global conflicts.
Alessandro also shares his insights on how social media is changing the way people consume news, the challenges that creates for traditional news organizations, and how short news cycles impact depth a
How Psychedelics Are Changing Therapy: A Psychotherapist’s Perspective
Stephan is a Zurich-based psychotherapist and a pioneer in the emerging field of psychedelic therapy. In this episode, we delve into how psychedelics like psilocybin, MDMA, and LSD are being used to treat conditions such as PTSD and depression. Stephan shares his firsthand experiences with these substances in his practice, including the transformative effects he has witnessed in his patients. We a
How to Pick the Next Big Startup: Inside a Venture Capitalist’s Mind
Philipp Flesch is an Investment Associate at Nordic Eye Venture Capital, based in Zurich, where he specializes in identifying and supporting high-potential startups. In this episode, we dive into the world of venture capital and the strategies behind selecting startups to invest in. Philipp shares his insights on what makes a startup stand out, the red flags investors watch for, and the decision-m
Tax Efficiency Across Borders: Insights from a Global Expert
Maarten is an international tax specialist with a wealth of experience managing the tax affairs of high-net-worth individuals and multinational corporations. The conversation delves into the complexities of global tax strategies, including why the ultra-wealthy often pay lower tax percentages than the average person and how countries compete to attract lucrative businesses.
Expect to learn about
Navigating the Job Market: Insights from a Top Recruiter
Jelena is a seasoned Talent Acquisition Professional in Zurich, with extensive experience in recruitment in a number of companies, big and small. The conversation delves into the challenges of finding the right talent in today’s competitive job market, along with the key attributes she values in potential candidates.
Expect to learn about how you can stand out when applying for a job, whether you
Inside CERN: Exploring the World of Particle Physics
In this episode, I sit down with Hannes Gamper, a robotics engineer at CERN, to explore the cutting-edge world of scientific and engineering innovations at one of the most prestigious research centers in the world. Our conversation begins with an overview of CERN's groundbreaking discoveries, including the creation of the World Wide Web, and how these innovations have shaped our modern world.
Startup Spotlight: The Co-founder of Snipd on Revolutionizing Podcasts
In this episode, we delve into the vibrant world of tech startups with Ferdinand Langnickel, co-founder of Snipd — an innovative AI-powered podcast player that lets you save ideas from your favourite shows simply by tapping your headphones.
Today, we discuss Ferdinand’s journey from academia and consultancy to launching a startup in the competitive tech landscape of Switzerland. We’ll uncover the
Behind the Pharma Curtain: Navigating Drug Trials and Cancer Research with Professor Dario Neri
In this episode of "How It Ticks," I sit down with Professor Dario Neri, the co-founder, CEO, and CSO of Philogen, to explore the multifaceted world of pharmaceutical research and development. Our conversation begins with Dario’s inspiring journey in academia, including what it was like working under Nobel Prize winners.
We then delve into the complexities of publishing medical research
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