Making Friends in Switzerland: A Guide from the Heart

The Swiss German transcript was written by me, by hand — because no software can capture all those “ä”, “öi” and “gäll” moments yet!

In this episode, I explore one of the biggest challenges many newcomers face: building real friendships in Switzerland. Inspired by Rick Warren’s powerful reflection on what truly matters at the end of life, we talk about why human connection is essential — and why it can feel especially difficult to find in Switzerland.

You’ll learn:

• why Swiss friend groups often feel closed or hard to enter
• how language and dialect create invisible barriers
• why even a few Swiss German words can open doors
• the easiest places to meet people and make new friends
• practical steps to feel more at home and build genuine connections

This episode is perfect for expats, internationals, or anyone trying to understand Swiss social culture. If you’ve ever felt lonely, stuck, or unsure how to connect with locals, this conversation will give you clarity — and hope