How It Ticks: The Swiss Culture, Business & Life Podcast

Nora Wilhelm, a systems change strategist and co-founder of Collaboratio Helvetica, dives into the complexities of social issues. She explains the difference between simple, complicated, and complex problems, using vivid examples. Discussing why traditional approaches often fail, she emphasizes the importance of understanding systemic factors in issues like poverty and fast fashion. Nora also offers practical frameworks for individual action and reflects on the role of protests in building awareness and community, sharing her hopeful vision for change.

In this engaging discussion, Mathias Müller, a seasoned Swiss Army officer and political figure, sheds light on Switzerland's unique approach to military service. He explores how a traditionally peaceful nation maintains a strong militia, emphasizing the role of conscription in fostering national unity. Mathias highlights the advantages of a part-time service, showcasing how civilian expertise enhances military effectiveness. The conversation touches on public sentiments toward conscription, modern geopolitical challenges, and the evolving demographics among recruits.

In this insightful discussion, Sebastian Huber, a lecturer and luxury goods expert, shares his deep knowledge of Swiss-China trade relations. Dive into the origin of Swiss luxury, from music boxes to luxury watches, and discover why heritage and experience steer luxury economics. Huber explains the unique free trade agreement with China and contrasts the complexities of navigating today's controlled Chinese market. The conversation also touches on how Swiss brands manage geopolitical tensions while appealing to the growing Chinese luxury consumer base.

Javier Pérez-Ramírez, a leading mind in catalysis engineering from ETH Zurich, tackles the pressing issue of plastic waste. He reveals that only about 10% of plastic is effectively recycled, exposing a massive gap between public perception and reality. The conversation goes beyond mere statistics, discussing the differences between mechanical and chemical recycling. Javier sheds light on Switzerland's waste management strategies and emphasizes that individual actions can make a difference in improving recycling outcomes.

Elsbeth Stern, a cognitive psychologist and Professor Emeritus at ETH Zurich, shares her insights on intelligence and the Swiss education system. She debunks myths about learning and delves into the nature vs. nurture debate, revealing how both shape cognitive abilities. Stern assesses the Swiss education model and proposes improvements for the future, emphasizing essential skills for a tech-driven world. She also discusses the impact of AI on learning and the critical balance between creativity and analytical thinking.

Join Tanya Deans, creator of the Swiss hiking blog Swiss Family Fun, as she shares her expertise on the best hiking trails in Switzerland. Discover family-friendly hikes like Chäserrugg and Stoos, perfect for visitors. Learn how to avoid crowds on popular paths in Zermatt and Jungfrau. Tanya reveals hidden gems for seasoned hikers, winter hiking tips, and budget-friendly strategies for exploring the Swiss outdoors. Essential safety tips cover everything from gear to weather prep, making your hiking experience safe and enjoyable!

Join Tanya Deans, creator of the Swiss Family Fun blog, as she recounts her journey from expat to a leading voice in Swiss travel. She shares how her passion project transitioned into a monetized platform, tackling burnout along the way. Discover insights on using analytics and SEO to enhance revenue, her experience with affiliate marketing, and the importance of aligning with partners. Tanya also discusses the challenges of scaling her business and the necessity of hiring help to keep growing. Dive into her story and learn valuable lessons for aspiring creators!

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 story of migrants from Switzerland's Ticino region who journeyed to the other side of the world in the mid-19th century in hopes of striking gold and building new lives.Expect to learn about the motivations behind this significant Swiss migration, the challenges faced by Ticinese individuals during their arduous journey to Australia, and their experiences on the goldfields. We discuss their contributions to Australian society and the lasting impact their adventures had both in their new home and back in Ticino.Read the original article by James Blake Wiener here:https://blog.nationalmuseum.ch/en/2023/12/the-ticinese-and-the-australian-gold-rush/Listen to the full 5-Part Series:⁠Part 1: The Swiss on the Titanic⁠⁠Part 2: The Swiss on the Lusitania ⁠⁠⁠⁠Part 3: Albert Gallatin: A Swiss Founding Father⁠⁠⁠⁠Part 4: Johann Ludwig Burckhardt: An Intrepid Swiss Explorer⁠⁠Connect with James Blake Wiener:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jameswiener/Connect with How It Ticks:Website: https://howitticks.ch/contact-page/Full Transcript: https://howitticks.ch/podcast/swiss-stories-james-blake/If you found this historical journey compelling, please like, subscribe, and leave a comment below! What did you find most surprising about the Ticinese experience in the Australian Gold Rush?

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 fascinating life of this Swiss adventurer, known for his daring travels across the Middle East and his significant contribution to archaeology, including his "rediscovery" of Petra.Expect to learn about Johann Ludwig Burckhardt's background and his motivations for his extensive explorations. We discuss his journeys through regions like Syria, Egypt, Arabia, and Nubia, his methods for blending in with local cultures, and the challenges he faced. The conversation highlights his monumental discovery of Petra and his lasting legacy in the world of exploration and Orientalism.Read the original article by James Blake Wiener here:https://blog.nationalmuseum.ch/2024/08/johann-ludwig-burckhardt-schweizer-entdecker/Listen to the full 5-Part Series:⁠Part 1: The Swiss on the Titanic⁠⁠Part 2: The Swiss on the Lusitania ⁠⁠⁠⁠Part 3: Albert Gallatin: A Swiss Founding Father⁠⁠⁠⁠Part 5: The Ticinese and the Australian Gold Rush⁠⁠Chapters:Coming Soon:Connect with James Blake Wiener:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jameswiener/Connect with How It Ticks:Website: https://howitticks.ch/contact-page/Full Transcript: https://howitticks.ch/podcast/swiss-stories-james-blake/

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 profound influence of this Swiss-born statesman who played a pivotal role in early American politics, serving alongside figures like Thomas Jefferson and Benjamin Franklin.Expect to learn about Albert Gallatin's Swiss origins and his path to becoming a key figure in American history, including his contributions as Treasury Secretary and diplomat. We discuss how his unique background may have influenced his political philosophy and his lasting legacy in shaping the young United States.Read the original article by James Blake Wiener here:https://blog.nationalmuseum.ch/en/2021/01/albert-gallatin-a-swiss-founding-father/Listen to the full 5-Part Series:⁠Part 1: The Swiss on the Titanic⁠⁠Part 2: The Swiss on the Lusitania ⁠⁠⁠⁠Part 4: Johann Ludwig Burckhardt: An Intrepid Swiss Explorer⁠⁠⁠⁠Part 5: The Ticinese and the Australian Gold Rush⁠⁠Connect with James Blake Wiener:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jameswiener/Connect with How It Ticks:Website: https://howitticks.ch/contact-page/Full Transcript: https://howitticks.ch/podcast/swiss-stories-james-blake/