Studio vibes in Cologne: emotional sounds are created here

In the top third of the video, you not only get an impression of the studio itself, but also find out how Philipp works. Whether it’s pop, hip-hop, R&B or cinematic film music – at PK it’s all about the right emotion. And that always starts with the question: What should the music trigger when you listen to it?

From Cologne to Mexico: creativity without borders

In the video, PK talks about exciting projects – including a spontaneous film shoot in Mexico, where he only had 48 hours to produce a complete film score. Whether official advertising films or personal music productions: The creative process always takes center stage. And that’s exactly what makes the job so special for him.

What makes good film music?

Good music for films or series should create emotion – without pushing itself to the fore. In the interview, PK explains how to find the balance between epic music and quiet accompaniment, when big strings are appropriate and when an experimental sound is more in demand. For him, music must always be subordinate to the image – but it must also be independent.

A second studio for new projects

By the way: In addition to the large deafBird studio, there is now also a second room that can be booked immediately. Ideal for artists, podcasters or small productions. You can find more information directly on his website:

• DeafBird Studio in the center of Cologne

Whether in the studio, on a spontaneous trip to Mexico or working with artists: at PK you can feel the passion for sound in every moment. If you want to get a taste of the studio or are looking for an experienced producer – just take a look, listen and be inspired.

Top 5 movie soundtracks that everyone knows!

Film music evokes emotions, stays in your head and shapes entire generations. Here are five soundtracks that you are guaranteed to have heard before – even if you may never have seen the movie:

Hans Zimmer – Inception

The legendary “BRAAAM” sound and the epic climax: this score has redefined the genre.

John Williams – Star Wars

Probably the most famous film music theme of all time – goosebumps guaranteed from the first note.

Howard Shore – The Lord of the Rings

Majestic, emotional, unforgettable. Every chord takes you back to Middle-earth.

Ennio Morricone – Play me the song of death

Minimalist and yet full of tension – a classic that has shaped Western music.

James Horner – Titanic

Pure emotion. The melodies are inextricably linked to one of the greatest love stories in film history.

Which film music has influenced you? Let us know in the comments!

CannaZen: From idea to start-up

These 2 men are changing the cannabis market in Germany with CannaZen. In the interview, you can find out more about the founding story, the challenges, but also the future of the cannabis market and why Stephan wants to deliver with drones soon.

Editor’s note: Stephan Czaja is also the owner of FIV Magazine.

FIV: David, Stephan, nice of you to take the time. How do you start the day before you get to CannaZen?

David Krems: My mornings usually start with exercise – whether it’s a short run or half an hour at the gym. It gets me going and gives me energy for the day. Then I have a balanced breakfast, often with fruit and yogurt, so that I can start the day well fortified. We had over a thousand orders in the first week alone – you can’t have enough energy!

Stephan Czaja: I like to start the day with a tour of the city center, I like to walk – that’s often where the best ideas come from. Then I sit down with a cappuccino, what projects are on the agenda? Which meetings are particularly important? This gives me an immediate overview and a structured start to the working day. So I can still learn a lot from David’s sporting energy!

Founder story: From BBQ to startup

FIV: Let’s move on to CannaZen. How did the idea of setting up a platform for medical cannabis come about?

Stephan Czaja: We’ve known each other forever, almost ten years. David has had his companies, I mean forever. Then we went out for dinner in early 2024 and ….

David showed me that you can easily order medical cannabis online in 5 minutes. I couldn’t believe it until we actually got a cannabis prescription – without all the stress of buying cannabis.

David Krems: The disadvantage of all the providers is that they are from Malta, London, none of them are from Germany. That’s how CannaZen was born.

Stephan Czaja: Exactly. Excellent customer service, weed with one hundred percent quality from renowned producers and fast home delivery. So you save yourself all the trips, the search for a doctor, the waiting, the waiting room and then the search for a pharmacy and so on. And let’s be honest, many patients have saved themselves the stress and bought their marijuana from dealers.

Getting cannabis, made easy

David Krems: Yes, we have noticed that many patients have to struggle with hurdles, as Stephan already said, finding a doctor, waiting times, finding a pharmacy and very few people have bought from pharmacies so far. Until now, cannabis has mostly been obtained illegally. We wanted to create a solution that simplifies access to medicinal cannabis for everyone while maintaining the highest standards.

FIV: David, what vision are you pursuing with CannaZen?

David Krems: “ Our vision was clear: we wanted to create a platform that offers patients a simple and safe way to obtain medical cannabis. Our aim was to combine modern technology and personal support in order to optimally meet individual needs.

But there’s more to it than that: medical care in rural areas, for example. With online doctors and pharmacies, we are already making life easier for many people, especially working people who can’t just pop to the doctor.

Stephan Czaja: We also want to offer prompt delivery in larger cities, in just a few hours. Thinking further, Amazon is already testing the first drone hubs in the USA for the delivery of products and medicines. This is where the future lies, prompt delivery within an hour, no matter where in Germany, not just in Berlin, Hamburg or other major cities, but also in rural areas, where 29 percent of people live.

How does it work now, buying cannabis online

FIV: How does the platform work in detail?

David Krems: Patients start with a digital questionnaire that collects all the relevant information for our doctors. After the medical examination and approval, the prescription is transmitted digitally to one of our partner pharmacies. Delivery is then made directly to the front door within 48 hours.

Stephan Czaja: What was important to us was that the entire process is not only efficient, but also transparent. Patients know where they stand in the process at all times and can rely on a smooth service.

Why CannaZen? Differences

FIV: What distinguishes CannaZen from other providers?

Stephan Czaja: The payment was central, with us you only have one step and can order your cannabis conveniently to your home in 3-5 minutes. That means it’s simple and straightforward. With others, you almost always only get a cannabis prescription, so you have to go back to a pharmacy, which then doesn’t have strain A, B or C in stock and the search begins all over again.

David Krems: CannaZen solves that, you do everything through our service. We attach great importance to a combination of efficiency and individual support, and I’m also very active in this on a day-to-day basis. We also only work with certified doctors and pharmacies to ensure the highest quality standards.

And as I said at the beginning, we are based in Germany, not in Malta, Cyprus or London, we pay our taxes here and are always available.

FIV: David, how do you ensure that your offer meets legal requirements?

David Krems: We are in constant contact with lawyers and experts to ensure that all processes are compliant. At the same time, we have developed our systems in such a way that they meet the legal requirements.

The biggest hurdles in development so far

FIV: What challenges have you had to overcome so far?

David Krems: Security of supply, we currently have 40 varieties on offer and all of them should always be available and deliverable. Secondly, there are also payment providers, which was a lot of work. Then there was the logistics, which was one of the biggest challenges. It wasn’t easy to set up a system that could deliver throughout Germany within 48 hours.

Stephan Czaja: There was also the task of gaining the trust of patients, which is why we work a lot with well-known people who are cannabis patients themselves. They show on YouTube and Instagram how an order works and that builds trust. Especially in the sensitive area of medical cannabis, trust in the quality and safety of the product is crucial.

FIV: What do you think of the positive feedback from patients?

David Krems: The response has been overwhelming. Many people report that they have finally found a reliable and legal way to obtain their medication. This shows us that we are on the right track.

Cannabis market in the future

FIV: What’s coming in the future?

David Krems: We are currently working on live communication with your doctor. Without a visit, without a traditional telephone, directly from your cell phone. Some of our patients would like even more support from their doctor and we want to make this possible soon.

FIV: Stephan, are there any plans to expand into other countries?

Stephan Czaja: We’ll see. The demand for medicinal cannabis is also high elsewhere, but the legal framework is complex. We want to ensure that we can also offer the quality and efficiency that sets us apart outside Germany.

Message from CannaZen

FIV: What message do you have for potential partners or patients?

David Krems: We want to show that CannaZen stands for quality and trust. Patients can rely on us to provide them with a safe and uncomplicated solution.

Stephan Czaja: Exactly that! Quality.

FIV: Many thanks to both of you! If you want to know more about the company, click here: CannaZen.de. Here YouTuber Open Mind tests the delivery service and here you can find our CannaZen experience report:

Drag Tropica – On 28.09. in Cologne

The 23-year-old drag queen from Cologne has been performing regularly on stages at drag shows, competitions and CSDs throughout Germany for around a year. On September 28, Jen Z will celebrate the premiere of her show Drag Tropica in Cologne, bringing a breath of fresh air to the Cologne drag scene. For the first time, she will be taking on the artistic direction and moderation herself, so Jen is all the more delighted if her drag show makes a successful debut. Drag Tropica will take place on 28.09.2024 at the queer youth center anyway in Cologne.

Jen Z is also part of Kölnchella, a queer music festival that regularly organizes cultural events in Cologne. The next Kölnchella will take place under the motto Kölnchelloween on 19.10.2024.

Interview: Drag, Tolerance & Performance

FIV: Hi Jen! Where did you get your drag name?

Jen Z: The name is obviously a pun on “Gen Z” or “Generation Z”. I find it funny how our generation is often categorized in the media as lazy or addicted to social media. I want to poke a little fun at that. At the same time, Gen Z has a very strong sense of justice and is very aware of the grievances around the world due to digitalization. We are very politically informed and stand up for our opinions.

FIV: What is your motivation for drag art?

Jen Z: I am simply on fire for the stage. I love performing and filling the room with my energy. As drag artists, we also have a special role in the queer community. We are often the loud ones, a mouthpiece, a role model for the community. And because we are on stage, we also have a responsibility.

FIV: What does this responsibility mean to you personally?

Jen Z: It’s important to me to create a safe space wherever I am, where every person feels comfortable and included. It’s about showing visibility as a drag artist to the rest of the community – even outside of our safe spaces – and fighting for those who aren’t as visible as we are.

FIV: What progress have we already made in terms of visibility and inclusion?

Jen Z: Compared to the past, a lot! But it’s important not to rest on our laurels now. Acceptance is still nowhere near as widespread as it sometimes seems in the mainstream. We still can’t go out without the risk of being hostile, insulted or physically hurt. There are more and more voices trying to reverse the progress we have made so far. There are attempts to instrumentalize us for some political propaganda and drag queens are falsely defamed.

FIV: What can you expect at a Jen Z show?

Jen Z: I love lipsyncing to high-energy pop songs that everyone knows and loves. With that and my stage presence, I captivate the audience. My aim is to give everyone an unforgettable evening! My shows should create a space in which everyone can forget everyday life and enjoy their time without worries.

FIV Magazine: How do you manage to create this atmosphere?

Jen Z: By keeping the energy high and making sure everyone in the room feels welcome. I want my shows to be a place where all people – regardless of their background or identity – can come together, have fun and celebrate themselves.

FIV: Thank you for your insights and a drag queen’s perspective on the queer community. We wish you all the best and much success, Jen!

More content from Jen Z:

• Jen Z Instagram
• Jen Z TikTok

Now in FIV Issue #32!

Jen Z on the cover of FIV Magazine, photo stories as well as inspiring fitness stories, travel tips and fashion can be discovered in the complete magazine!

• Read now: FIV Magazine #32

Looks, Hair, Beauty and Books!

She showcases her timeless style and passion for lifestyle, beauty and fashion on Instagram and YouTube. The fashion-conscious YouTuber has been sharing fashion hacks with her followers for over 10 years, starting with hair tutorials and make-up, she shares everything to do with lifestyle, whether vlogs from her vacations, updates on her book collection or her annual perfume favorites. She tells us about special treasures in her bag range and her opinion on vintage designers and funny bag finds as a mom.

• Olesja Schalnich Instagram
• Olesja Schalnich YouTube

Louis Vuitton as the first expensive handbag

FIV: Nice to chat with you Olesja! You have a certain love for your handbags, is there one that is particularly close to your heart?

Olesja: I treasure my very first Louis Vuitton handbag the most. I watched it on Pinterest and all kinds of social media platforms for a very long time. I really wanted it because I thought it was really beautiful and it was a goal for me to be able to treat myself to this handbag one day.

When it actually happened, I was very proud. Even though I’m no longer the biggest fan of the brand, the bag is very special to me. Another bag that is close to my heart is the Chanel bag (my only one so far). This one is also very special because it was also an investment and because a Chanel handbag is simply something special. And because I consider the brand to be very high up among all the top designers.

This bag just looks perfect on me. I can really identify with it and I’m very proud of how far I’ve come to be able to afford a bag like this.

Vintage bags – sustainable designer shopping

FIV: Would vintage designer handbags also be an option for you?

Olesja: In theory, I think it’s very, very good. The sustainability aspect behind it is wonderful. I’m very much in favor of it and think it’s great. It doesn’t age classic fashion. It always looks beautiful & is always in demand. The older the fashion is, the more it is appreciated.

Vintage is currently out of the question for me. I haven’t acquired a taste for it yet. Maybe that will change one day. I’m currently buying new bags so that I’m the first owner of the bag. That simply has a special meaning for me.

As a mom, diapers sometimes hide in the handbag

FIV: Have you ever found anything unexpected or curious in your handbag?

Olesja: I’m a very tidy person and always know what’s in my handbag. I’m very minimalist and like to have an overview of everything.

However, as I had to transport pancakes somehow and only had my handbag available, I had to carry them in it. It was very funny because it didn’t fit together at all.

And even as a young mom, I occasionally had to take a fresh diaper with me. Then it can also happen that a fresh and used diaper turns up in a fancy handbag.

A backpack just doesn’t suit my style

FIV: As a mom, the perfect handbag also has to be very practical – do you prioritize functionality or aesthetics?

Olesja: Definitely functionality, because that’s my disposition too. I’m more the practical type … my star sign is Virgo. I just love order & structure and that things are practical & useful. That’s why I value functionality, but I think that goes hand in hand with aesthetics.

For me, for example, a backpack is out of the question because it doesn’t suit my style. Of course, the backpack is a 10/10 in terms of functionality, but it doesn’t suit me. That’s why aesthetics take precedence over functionality.

I first choose a bag for its aesthetics and then check its functionality before deciding whether to buy it or not.

Handbag organizer for a good overview

I think handbag organizers are really good

FIV: Most bags don’t have as many compartments as backpacks, so it’s easy to lose track – there are now handbag organizers, what do you think of them?

Olesja: If you carry particularly large bags, I find this very helpful. Especially if you carry and organize half your life in your bag, it’s just a wonderful idea. I think you can recommend it to everyone.

Most large handbags are cut in such a way that they only have a large interior. You look inside and everything piles up on top of each other, which is why I think the organizers are really good.

I usually tend to carry smaller bags and, as I mentioned at the beginning, I always have a good overview of my contents and that’s why there’s no mess. But I’m not averse to it in itself.

Simple or eye-catching? Both are possible!

FIV: Do you prefer a plain black dress or a striking design?

Olesja: I’m a more classic/elegant type of person, so the black bag is an option for me because I can use it more. I would invest more in this bag because I know I will wear it a lot.

But it depends on the person’s individual style. If someone dresses very plain & monochrome, no patterns, then I think this person could dare to wear color & pattern to make the look more exciting.

FIV: So in your opinion, it’s better to wear a black dress if it’s conspicuous?

Olesja: If your closet is very colorful, exciting, with lots of textures and different cuts, then I think it’s important to have very clear, classic handbags that aren’t also exciting to balance out the look. It all depends on your individual style. Having a bit of both is certainly not a bad thing either.

FIV: Thank you for inviting us into your world, Olesja! Your love for luxury handbags and your minimalist interior design style are truly inspiring. See you next time!

More content from:

• Olesja Schalnich Instagram
• Olesja Schalich YouTube

Now in FIV Issue #32!

You can also discover the whole interview as well as inspiring fitness stories, travel tips and fashion in the complete magazine!

• Read now: FIV Magazine #32

More about bags:

Are you looking for a new luxury bag? Then take a look here to see if there’s something for you!

Luxurious bags for every woman:

Fitness, fun and vacations with Lena’s Health Lab

With a degree in biology and health management, Lena shows a variety of home workouts every week on her YouTube channel Lena’s Health Lab, including Pilates and barre exercises. What makes her special is that Lena does her workouts in the most beautiful workout locations and not only helps us get a good workout, but also takes us on a mini vacation. Sounds exciting, doesn’t it? Her aim is to convey to her viewers that sport should not only be effective, but also fun. We had the chance to have a quick chat with her.

• Lena’s Health Lab YouTube
• Lena’s Health Lab Instagram

Valuable tips for the fitness journey

FIV: Hi Lena, on your YouTube channel you bring the most beautiful workout locations to your viewers’ living rooms and guide them through a variety of fitness workouts. You’ve been doing this for a few years now and are therefore an expert, do you have 3 tips you can give to someone just starting out on their fitness journey?

Lena: 1. don’t take on too much at once. Exercise for 10 minutes a day and see if you want to keep going after that. If not, that’s okay for now. Step by step!

2. find something that you really enjoy. If you have to force yourself to exercise every day, you won’t be happy.

3. celebrate the small successes! Have you managed your first push-up? Congratulations. Be proud of yourself. This is just the beginning of your fitness journey!

FIV: That’s valuable advice that we can take to heart! Tell me, do you also have a secret to success?

A sense of achievement and overcoming boundaries

FIV: Have you ever had a moment when you can look back and say it was a real sense of achievement?

Lena: When I performed the “Rocking Balance” exercise accurately for the first time, even though I was convinced that I would never be able to do it, it felt like a triumphant moment that showed me that I could overcome my own limitations and overcome challenges that initially seemed unattainable.

FIV: Overcoming your limits is certainly a challenge, but all the better when it works out. Before you take on such challenges, do you have any kind of routine or something you do before you start?

Lena: I tidy up my living room. I need it to be tidy so that I’m not distracted during Pilates. Once everything is in the right place, I lay down my mat and take off my socks. Then I can get started.

Cheat days, recovery phase and Fleetwood Mac

Lena: As long as I can make sure that the majority of my diet consists of healthy and balanced foods and about 80 percent of my meals meet this guideline, I enjoy my favorite foods to the fullest.

FIV: I’m sure many people are now relieved that they don’t have to give up their cheat meal. Besides, the OFF time from training, i.e. recovery, is also an important aspect, isn’t it?

FIV: We just have one last question for you: What’s your favorite music to listen to in order to get a good workout?

Lena: Fleetwood Mac simply always works.

FIV: Cool, we definitely agree. We don’t want to keep you any longer and wish you continued success on your fitness journey.

Now in FIV Issue #32!

You can also discover the whole interview as well as inspiring fitness stories, travel tips and fashion in the complete magazine!

• Read now: FIV Magazine #32

Find out more about Lena here:

• Lena’s Health Lab Instagram
• Lena’s Health Lab YouTube

Equip yourself perfectly for your next sports session. We’ve put together a list of sports brands that will keep you fit and stylish at the same time:

• Sports brands: Women x Men – Fashion from Asics, Under Amour & The North Face

• Travellovestorys Instagram
• Travellovestorys Blog

Top travel destinations: From Thailand to Sri Lanka

FIV: Hello you two, by now you’ve visited countless places. Is there a place that you particularly like?

Yvi and Simon: Thailand is our favorite travel destination. On our very first visit in 2019, we fell in love with the fascinating culture, stunning beaches and delicious food. This trip marked the beginning of our shared thirst for adventure and inspired us to plan a trip around the world. Thailand will always have a special place in our hearts as it is the place where our dream of traveling around the world began.

Sri Lanka is another favorite destination for us. Our trip in the summer of 2022 during the economic crisis was unforgettable. Despite the difficult circumstances, we were touched by the friendliness and hospitality of the locals. The diversity of the culture, the delicious food and the untouched nature, from the tea plantations to the national parks, made a deep impression on us. Sri Lanka has taken a special place in our hearts.

Relaxation or adventure?

FIV: Most people tend to explore new places as vacationers during the summer vacations. Can you explain the difference between vacation and rest?

Yvi and Simon: On our trip around the world, we noticed that many people use the terms “vacation” and “travel” interchangeably. However, we define them as follows: “For us, “vacation” means taking time out from everyday life to relax and unwind, often at a fixed location such as a beach resort or spa hotel. The focus is on comfort, rest and leisure, without necessarily paying attention to every euro. In contrast, the term “traveling” implies an active engagement with new places, cultures and experiences. It is less about relaxation and more about discovery and adventure, often with a carefully planned budget to gain lots of experiences.

Overall, it can be said that during a vacation, the focus is often on taking a break and relaxing from everyday life, while traveling is about experiencing and getting to know the world. We have discovered a passion for traveling and are always on the lookout for new adventures, cultures, tastes and impressions. Together we have already traveled to around 50 different countries, including many in Europe as well as far-flung destinations such as Australia, Indonesia and Thailand, but also special destinations such as Hawaii, Jordan, Colombia and Panama.

FIV: How do you prepare for your trips?

Yvi and Simon: Careful planning and organization are essential when preparing for a trip. Once the destination has been decided, we book accommodation, think about how we’re going to get around and check our insurance. When packing our suitcases, we use packing lists and roughly plan what we want to do on each day to save time.

However, as we gain experience, we let ourselves drift much more and are open to new adventures. Sometimes our plans change spontaneously, and that’s okay. We have more useful tips and interesting and important points on our website,
which should be considered when traveling around the world.

Watch out! Saving tip:

FIV: Do you have any insider tips on how to save money on vacation without sacrificing fun and adventure?

Yvi and Simon: There are a few areas where you can save money on your vacation without compromising your experience, for example, you can easily compare prices for flights, accommodation, transportation and activities and save money.

You can compare flights online at “Skyscanner” or “Google Flights”. It’s similar for accommodation. “Booking.com, Airbnb and similar apps are your best friends. Accommodation such as hostels or Airbnb accommodation is usually cheaper. It’s best to take the bus from the airport to the city instead of a cab or Uber.

And if it does have to be a cab or Uber, then share the costs with other passengers or leave the airport if possible, as this saves unnecessary airport fees. You can also save on food by visiting local markets and cooking for yourself instead of going to expensive restaurants.

Paradise beaches and insider tips

FIV: Do you have any recommendations for people who would like to go on vacation to the beach?

Yvi and Simon: We discovered some of the most beautiful beaches on our trip around the world. On the west coast of Australia, we were impressed by Turquoise Bay in Cape Range National Park with its clear waters. Cable Beach in Broome and Reddell Beach offered relaxing backdrops. Lucky Bay around Esperance was named one of the best beaches in the world. In Hawaii, we were fascinated by the black sand beach of Waianapanapa on Maui. However, the beaches in the Philippines were particularly unforgettable during our boat trip from Coron to El Nido. Nacpan Beach on El Nido and Darocotan Island on Palawan attracted visitors from all over the world with their white sand and crystal-clear water.

FIV: Where is a good place for a solitary vacation?

Yvi and Simon: A special tip is Darocotan Island in the Philippines. As already mentioned, white and pristine sandy beaches, pleasantly temperate and cerulean-colored water and a diverse and colorful coral reef await you here. There are few tourist facilities on Darocotan Island, making it an ideal place for travelers looking for peace and nature off the beaten track.

The island offers accommodation in the form of simple huts and campsites, allowing vacationers to experience the beauty and seclusion of this tropical paradise up close – you should pack a good book and plenty of sunscreen. There is also a sunken shipwreck off the island, which can be easily reached from the beach.

This island for relaxation away from tourism

FIV: Do you have a special insider tip for a more unknown place?

Yvi and Simon: We found paradise on earth during our trip – Karimunjawa. This group of islands off the coast of Java is a hidden gem of Indonesia. With turquoise waters and white sandy beaches, it offers untouched beauty.

Unlike overcrowded tourist destinations such as Bali or the Gilis, Karimunjawa remains untouched by the mainstream. Here, visitors can enjoy the peace and serenity of nature while snorkeling, diving or hiking.

The arrival by ferry from Jepara on Java, which takes several hours, ensures that the island is not overrun by mass tourism. This allows travelers to experience the authentic flair of Karimunjawa and explore the untouched nature in peace.

FIV: Which absolute dream destination is still on your bucket list?

Yvi and Simon: Iceland is a dream destination that is right at the top of our bucket list. The breathtaking landscape with its glaciers, numerous waterfalls, endless lava fields and active volcanoes fascinates us beyond belief. The natural spectacle of the Northern Lights, which light up the sky in brilliant colors, is also an experience that you will never forget and should see once.

A visit to Machu Picchu is also high on our bucket list. We want to admire the ancient and impressive ruins of the Incas and see the mysterious history and beautiful landscape with our own eyes. We also want to experience a safari in Africa and see the unique and diverse wildlife.

FIV: Then we hope that you can fulfill this dream very soon. Thank you for your great tips and impressions!

You can find more from Yvi and Simon here:

• Travellovestorys Instagram
• Travellovestorys Blog

More about travel, vacations and experiences

Have these wonderful experiences got you into travel fever and want to plan your next trip right away? Here is a list of destinations that might interest you:

Travel XXL: Tips and recommendations worldwide

Weight loss & healthy eating with Cycling Sophie

Cycling Sophie is, as the name suggests, an expert when it comes to indoor cycling, and she inspires her viewers with new workouts every week on her YouTube channel. In an interview, the fitness guru gave us an insight into her fitness journey – among other things, she tells us about her weight loss of over 30 kg and tells us what she likes to snack on before a workout. Sophie knows that sport alone doesn’t help you achieve your dream weight, but that there’s more to it than that.

• Cycling Sophie YouTube
• Cycling Sophie Instagram

No motivation? No reason for compulsion

FIV: Hi Sophie, you regularly provide us with great workouts on your channel, how do you actually do it on days when you don’t feel like it?

Sophie: If I really don’t feel like exercising at all, I first ask myself whether it’s my head or whether there’s a physical reason. If it’s my head, then I remember the feeling after training, in the shower, and that feeling pushes me for the first 10 minutes and then my endorphins take over and off I go.

However, if there is a physical reason (too little or poor sleep, digestive problems or my period), then I have learned to listen to my body. Instead of forcing myself to do something during training, I take my headphones and go for a long walk, whatever the weather. My health has become extremely important to me. Especially because of my road accident at the beginning of 2018.

Pamela Reif’s snacks: the perfect pre-workout bar

FIV: Do you treat yourself to a small snack before training, if so, what do you eat?

Sophie: Actually the Chunky White Chocolate Oatbar from Pamela and if it’s a short work-out then it’s either a handful of blueberries with almonds or the Crunchy Protein Bar from Pamela.

Exercise alone does not lead to weight loss

FIV: Is there a fitness myth that you would like to debunk?

Sophie: Oh yes, definitely. And that is that sport per se leads to weight loss. I speak from my own experience, having lost almost 30 kilos in my youth. The most important thing that athletes with a specific goal need to consider is that only an adapted diet (and yes, I know this is a huge area and super individual) leads to a loss of fat mass, for example. Muscle mass can also only be built up with an adapted diet. In any case, I recommend professional support if you find it too much for yourself and can no longer see the wood for the trees.

Well-being is more important than weight!

FIV: Fitness 101-Could you summarize 3 valuable tips for our readers to help them reach their goals?

Sophie: The journey is the reward.

Banish your scales. Weight is not as important as your body image and that is not reflected in any number.

Do not expect results overnight.

FIV: After so much experience, you must already have some impressive results. What has been your biggest fitness success so far?

My fitness and my performance have nothing to do with my appearance

Sophie: My first thought was immediately my weight loss in my youth or my cycling races as a member of the German national youth team. But when I think about it again, it’s probably more of an emotional ‘fitness success’. And it’s this: I’ve learned and accepted that my fitness and performance have nothing to do with my appearance. I am super capable and fit, EVEN if my skin isn’t the tightest due to weight loss. It’s been a long road, but self-acceptance is the most emotionally valuable thing I’ve achieved in the last few years.

FIV: You’ve made an essential statement! One last question: What is your favorite exercise in the gym?

Sophie: That’s easy – the leg press – without it I probably wouldn’t be able to master my hills and sprints on the bike as well.

FIV: Thank you Sophie for your insight. We don’t want to keep you any longer and wish you continued success!

Click here for Sophie’s work-outs:

• Cycling Sophie Instagram
• Cycling Sophie YouTube

You might also be interested in…

More home workouts to copy

• Workouts for at home

  

Healthy eating habits and secret indulgence food with Loredana Chantal

Loredana passionately shares her delicious dishes on Instagram and TikTok and her mantra is: quick, delicious and also calorie-conscious! From various pasta recipes to potato gratin and Oreo cheesecake – Loredana’s recipes really do have something for every gourmand who loves delicious and healthy food. We asked Loredana what her must-haves in the pantry are and which cheat meal she can’t resist.

• Loredana Instagram
• Loredana TikTok

Delicious and quick from the oven? That’s possible!

FIV: Hi Loredana! Nice of you to take the time to answer our questions! We’ve seen on your channels that you can really cook up all sorts of things from A to Z. But if we break it down, what are your must-haves as a stockpile?

Loredana: For me, a must-have in a healthy household would definitely be a good selection of fresh fruit and vegetables, as well as high-quality sources of carbohydrates such as potatoes or rice and a filling source of protein such as pulses or feta. That way you always have a good basis for a balanced diet at home.

FIV: For many people, fast food and healthy meals are opposites – but you actually prove the opposite: fast and healthy are not necessarily mutually exclusive, are they?

Loredana: Preparing quick and healthy food is absolutely compatible. That’s exactly why I came up with the idea of preparing all my recipes in the oven in 2021. It only takes a few minutes to prepare and the oven cooks a balanced meal for you. Back then, I opened a whole new chapter with oven recipes. You can now find them everywhere on Instagram, which makes me very happy.

FIV: Do you also follow a particular diet, such as veganism or vegetarianism?

Loredana Chantal: I mainly eat a vegetarian diet and try to make sure that my food provides me with all the nutrients I need.

Eat when the body gives the signal

I’m a big fan of intuitive eating

FIV: And how do you feel about intermittent fasting?

Loredana: Intermittent fasting is definitely a trend and has shown positive effects for many people. I’m a big fan of intuitive eating and believe that you should eat when you feel hungry. Personally, I rarely feel hungry in the morning and therefore often have breakfast at lunchtime. So you could say that I occasionally practice intermittent fasting unconsciously. However, I don’t do it consciously and strongly advise against prohibitions and strict rules. My motto is: – Eat when you are physically hungry.

FIV: Do you have any experience with nutritional supplements or would you recommend them to others?

Loredana: While we can theoretically get a lot of nutrients from our diet, the reality is often different. Although I try to eat a healthy and balanced diet every day, there are days when I don’t always succeed. That’s why I think it’s important to support my nutritional needs with supplements. I have consulted a naturopath to find out exactly what I need.

A weakness for the famous French fries special

FIV: What is your secret indulgence that you keep giving in to despite its unhealthy side?

Loredana: My secret indulgence would probably be a portion of Pommes Spezial. These are chips with ketchup, mayo and fresh onions. It’s certainly not the healthiest, so I enjoy them very consciously or integrate them into a healthy bowl with salad and a source of protein.

FIV: Well, with all the healthy meals, a French fries special is allowed. Thank you Loredana for your time. We’ll definitely make one or two of the one-pot recipes.

More about Loredana’s one-pot recipes:

• Loredana Instagram
• Loredana TikTok

Now in FIV Issue #32!

You can also discover the whole interview as well as inspiring fitness stories, travel tips and fashion in the complete magazine!

• Read now: FIV Magazine #32

More inspiration for delicious meals.

If you’re looking for more inspiration for delicious meals, we’ve got just the thing for you. Summer is the perfect time to enjoy simple and fresh dishes. Here are our best summer recipes that you can easily recreate.

Simple summer dishes to recreate

Quit your job, pack your rucksack: Jessi and Daniel’s trip around the world

Jessi and Daniel quit their jobs in 2015, sold all their possessions and boarded a plane with a one-way ticket and traveled to Thailand. Today they live on Koh Samui in Thailand and are expecting their first child. They share insights, tips and tricks on social media to show others how it’s done.

• Life to go Instagram
• Life to go YouTube
• 5 years of world travel – the movie
• Life to go blog
• Life to go Facebook

Thailand: How it all began

FIV: Hello, you two. You’ve already seen a lot of the world. Let’s say you only had one destination left, where would you go and why there?

Daniel and Jessi: Phew, difficult question. We’ve been traveling the world for over 5 years and have visited 39 countries. So it’s very difficult for us to limit ourselves to one destination. Each of the countries was special, but some countries were very special for us.

Thailand, for example. Our first long-distance trip was to Thailand in 2011. We immediately fell in love with the land of smiles, returned again and again, got engaged here, got married in Thailand, started our journey around the world there in 2015 and emigrated here at the end of 2020, after more than 5 years of traveling the world, which is why we made our world travel film, to the tropical island of Koh Samui.

In addition to Thailand, we were also extremely fascinated by Namibia, Mexico, Cuba, the USA, Brazil, Ecuador, Indonesia, Japan, the Maldives, Iceland (simply a magical country), Australia and the South Seas. Actually, all the other countries too. It is very difficult for us to limit ourselves to one destination.

Travel or vacation? Everyone as he likes!

FIV: Do you generally prefer to go on trips to discover new places or do you sometimes go with the intention of simply switching off?

Daniel and Jessi: We prefer to travel and discover countries and cultures in depth. We also love to go on vacation for a few days and relax on the beach, but after a few days we get “bummed out” and have to see something of the country, otherwise we feel like we haven’t really been there.

For us, traveling means above all that we travel from one country to the next, crossing borders and suddenly finding ourselves in a new culture, rather than being in one country and one region on a vacation. Of course, there are also holidaymakers who combine regions in one country or even 1, 2 or even 3 countries, but that is the exception rather than the rule and counts for us as a real trip rather than a vacation.

What is important here, however, is that people find the right way to explore the world for themselves. Whether it’s a single vacation, longer trips, 1 country or several countries, whether as a backpacker, luxury traveler or hotel vacationer … there is no right or wrong. Everyone should simply find their own way of traveling that makes them happy and fulfills them. And what we all have in common is the travel itself, the desire to discover countries – no matter what kind.

Adventures in Cuba and dreams of the Arctic

FIV: Which destination surprised you the most and is particularly memorable?

Daniel and Jessi: The most unusual destination for us was definitely Cuba. We got virtually nowhere with English, which is why we attended a language school for the first few weeks to learn Spanish on the spot. This was a hurdle in itself, as the Spanish teacher didn’t speak any English. After that, we spent another two weeks driving around the country in a rental car.

We really felt like we had been transported back several years. Somehow like in a country before our time. We encountered horse-drawn carriages, ox-drawn carts, cyclists and pedestrians on the highways. The roads were a pure adventure and cities like Havana or Trinidad had a very special flair, especially away from the “tourist zones”. The supermarkets were not full to the brim like in Germany, but there were often empty shelves. Internet was very limited. Sometimes we had to visit public places.

We attended a salsa class, drank the best mojito on the streets of Trinidad and bathed in the clearest and extremely turquoise sea. Cuba was definitely not easy to travel to, yet it was absolutely extraordinary and definitely needs to be mentioned here. It was also very different from a vacation in Havana, as we really traveled the country. Here we can refer back to the question above, because if you travel to Cuba as part of a package vacation, you experience a different Cuba than if you really travel the country on your own, from A to B, on to C and have to overcome a few hurdles along the way.

TIP: How to save money when traveling!

FIV: As you already have a lot of experience, can you tell us the best places to save money when planning a trip?

Daniel and Jessi: We have found that package vacations through travel agencies are often more expensive than self-planned trips. Our first vacation to Thailand through a travel agency in Cologne was well organized, but also significantly more expensive than subsequent self-planned trips there.

By comparing flights, hotels, rental cars, etc., we were able to save hundreds to thousands of euros. For us, traveling is not about saving money, but about gaining unforgettable experiences.

Therefore, we would rather save on activities and excursions than on important aspects such as a suitable rental car or a hotel that meets our needs. Ultimately, everyone should find their own way, and there is no right or wrong way.

Traveling is and remains our absolute passion

FIV: Do you still have an unexplored destination on your bucket list?

Daniel and Jessi: Antarctica is definitely at the top of our bucket list. The Arctic would also be our last continent, as we have otherwise traveled to all the other continents.

Seeing polar bears, penguins and orcas in their natural environment would be our absolute dream.

We normally prefer warmer regions, but Antarctica really appeals to us. We would also love to go to Finland in the depths of winter. Preferably at Christmas, in a cozy cabin, with lots of snow on the doorstep – maybe we’ll make this dream come true next year when our son is born and we’re no longer travelling as a couple, but as a family. Of course, we have a number of other countries on our bucket list, such as Chile, Argentina, Canada, Kenya, Tanzania, Mongolia, Taiwan, New Zealand and many more. And we would also love to travel to some countries again and then, for example, to other / further parts of the country.

Traveling is and remains our absolute passion. However, we are currently taking a short break from traveling as we are expecting our first child in July. But we already have a lot of destinations in mind for next year and then as a family, which we are particularly looking forward to, which will also change the way we travel. We will be able to see countries in a completely different way again, namely through our eyes and also through the eyes of our child. That will certainly be very special.

Maldives and insider tip for the best road trip

FIV: Which island has had the most beautiful beach for you so far?

Daniel and Jessi: We would immediately say the Maldives. A fine, light-colored sandy beach and turquoise blue water in front of it. Simply perfect.
On our trip around the world we also had some of the most beautiful beaches on the west coast of Australia, on Cuba in Varadero, in Thailand and Indonesia, but also on Iceland with the unique Diamond Beach, where huge blocks of ice are washed up like diamonds in the dark sand.

FIV: Do you have an insider tip for a place that is not overrun by the mainstream?

Daniel and Jessi: A road trip through Slovenia. This country absolutely blew us away. Incredibly beautiful lakes, clear turquoise water, beautiful cities and great to travel around in a camper. The people were also very friendly to us and yes, the country really surprised us in a positive way.

But we could add to the list here too, such as a road trip through Namibia or a camper van trip through Japan, which is also quite rare and meant we had lots of great encounters with the locals.

FIV: With your great experiences you have certainly put many people in a traveling mood. Thank you for the great interview and have lots of fun!

You can find more content from Daniel and Jessi here:

• Life to go Instagram
• Life to go YouTube
• 5 years world tour movie
• Life to go blog
• Life to go Facebook

Now in FIV Issue #32!

You can also discover the whole interview as well as inspiring fitness stories, travel tips and fashion in the complete magazine!

• Read now: FIV Magazine #32

Tips for family vacations:

Camping cheaply with the family? With a roof tent, you can save on accommodation costs and experience nature up close. Our expert gives tips on affordable destinations, campsites and seasonal offers. Pack up the family and head off on an adventure!

Cheap camping & traveling: Rooftop tent vacation with the family

Up and away: off to Bali!

Laura and Finn have been traveling the world as digital nomads for over 3 years. In 2020, they took the ultimate step of leaving everything behind, packing their backpacks and venturing around the world with just a one-way ticket. They explored Southeast Asia during the pandemic. Since then, they have fallen in love with the beautiful island city of Bali. On social media, they take us along on their exciting adventure and share breathtaking insights through pictures and videos, as well as valuable tips and advice. In this interview, they tell us about the most beautiful beaches and why Japan and safaris in South Africa are very special memories for them.

• Laura and Finn Instagram
• Laura and Finn YouTube

Local cuisine – the courage to taste!

FIV: Hello Laura and Finn, you’ve already been on some fantastic trips and have a lot of experience. Where do you think we should save money on vacation, if possible?

Laura and Finn: Overpriced western food. We love trying out the local cuisine in new countries and can only recommend it to anyone. Sometimes it seems a bit scary and unfamiliar, but for us it’s part of traveling. You should at least give the local cuisine a chance. If you fancy a pizza or pasta from time to time, that’s perfectly fine!

Vacation or adventure trip? That’s a matter of type!

FIV: You dared to emigrate to the big wide world, so do you generally prefer going on an adventure trip to a classic vacation?

Laura and Finn: It totally depends on what the goal is! Both have their pros and cons. If you want to relax and simply enjoy yourself, you should go on vacation. Unfortunately, we often miss out on that because when we’re somewhere beautiful (even if it’s actually meant for relaxing), we somehow have the feeling that we want to share it with our community – so we end up working again.

Going on vacation simply means switching off from everyday life and not having to plan anything else during your vacation. Traveling, on the other hand, means challenges for us personally.

Traveling is about learning and seeing new things.

Discovering new cultures, stepping out of your comfort zone, being open to new things. Traveling is exhausting and has little to do with relaxation. Traveling often involves changing locations, moving around a lot, packing suitcases, lots of sightseeing, etc. You also need to stay spontaneous and “let yourself drift” during the trip. If you like a place, stay longer and if not, spontaneously move on. Traveling is about learning and seeing new things.

I think in the end it’s all about the mix. Sometimes an exciting new trip (preferably into the unknown) and sometimes just going on vacation without the pressure of having to see something and just having a good time.

These islands have fantastic beaches to offer

FIV: You’ve traveled a lot around the world and have certainly been able to see some islands with great beaches, is there a favorite that you could recommend to us?

Laura and Finn: I don’t know if this counts as an island, but we saw some insanely beautiful beaches in Western Australia. After our relatively spontaneous wedding for two in Perth, we took a road trip up to Exmouth. The nature we saw there was unique! Such beautiful white beaches with turquoise water and a really impressive underwater world

Otherwise, the beaches of Koh Lipe in Thailand and the beaches in Boracay, Philippines, also surprised us extremely positively. Both corners of the world were a dream for swimming, but compared to Western Australia, Thailand and the Philippines are of course much more touristy. So there was also a lot more going on there.

In Europe, we liked the beaches on Milos the best!

Insider tips away from mass tourism

FIV: The most annoying thing on vacation is usually when you have to queue up everywhere because of the loud tourist hustle and bustle and lose a lot of time as a result. Do you have an insider tip for us that hasn’t yet been overrun by the mainstream?

Laura and Finn: Siargao Island in the Philippines.

I know it’s a long way from Europe, but it’s worth it. The island is not completely undiscovered, but for us it has the perfect amount of tourist attractions (restaurants, infrastructure and hotels) and is still extremely local, with lots of untouched nature. We have fallen in love with this small island in the Philippines.

Japanlove and memories of South Africa

FIV: Thanks for the recommendations, everyone can choose what they prefer on vacation. Is there a place that you particularly liked and that left a lasting impression?

The people are very reserved but incredibly respectful and polite, the food is a dream (at least for us) and there is something new to see and discover around every corner. A trip to Japan is a must for every travel lover!

FIV: Japan is supposed to be really great. Have you ever ventured to a more unusual destination?

Laura and Finn: Of course, it also depends on how you define extraordinary. As mentioned before, we were extremely impressed and liked Japan – there was so much that was crazy and unusual here. But as we travel a lot in South East Asia and Asia in general, another corner of the world was probably still extremely extraordinary for us – South Africa!

We can only recommend everyone to treat themselves to a safari in Africa once in their life.

We were there for 3 months last year and think the country is so beautiful. First and foremost, of course, the wildlife. We were able to spend 3 days in Kruger National Park and what can I say – WOW WOW WOW! For us personally, it was the best thing to be able to see all these animals in the wild. It does something to you. As a European, you only know all these animals from television or the zoo, but there’s no comparison. We can only recommend everyone to treat themselves to a safari in Africa once in their life. It is beautiful, extraordinary and more than impressive to be able to observe all these wonderful animals.

Whether by train, car or plane – Laura and Finn use everything

Laura and Finn: A good and exciting trip always consists of a mixture of EVERYTHING!

Often you can’t avoid the plane (especially if you live on an island, like we did). When we were backpacking in Thailand for 4 months in a row, we really took every means of transportation. Whether it was day or even night ferries, trains, private drivers (cars), minivans, (night) buses and so on.

In Japan, we only traveled by bus and train, which worked very well. In countries like South Africa or Australia, cars or vans are more suitable for traveling. Here in Indonesia, we do almost everything on a scooter. So it really depends on the destination. Each means of transportation has its own charm.

New York, Italy and the Cook Islands

FIV: Which absolute dream destination is still on your bucket list?

Laura and Finn: The whole world, actually. There are really few countries that we don’t want to visit. Our individual ranking always changes according to our mood. There’s just so much we haven’t seen yet and the world is so beautiful and diverse.

If we had to make a decision right now, the following goals would be at the top of the list:

Cook Islands: This group of islands looks simply beautiful and still truly untouched. South Korea. We’ve heard so many great things about this country. Tanzania. The nature and especially the wildlife here must be incredibly impressive.

New York City: Finn has been there several times, but for me (Laura), the city has been sooo high up on my bucket list for sooo long.

Italy: Sounds relatively unspectacular at first, but we’ve both hardly ever been to Italy, if at all, but we both love Italian food. We would love to do a van road trip through the country.

FIV: Then you still have a lot of exciting things planned, it rarely gets boring with you, we think that’s good. Thank you for sharing your experiences with us, we wish you many more wonderful impressions and a safe journey.

Would you like to discover more about traveling?

We are often drawn to faraway places and forget that we don’t always have to get on a plane to enjoy the beach:

• Baltic Sea or North Sea? Camping, vacation home, vacation! Travel check