Sirka offers a comprehensive exploration of life in East Germany, detailing the experiences of growing up in Neubrandenburg, the influence of the East German state and the Stasi, and the societal impacts of Mikhail Gorbachev's policies leading up to the fall of the Berlin Wall. She also talks of her intensive gymnastics training and being given pills by her trainer...Sirka also describes the transition to reunification, highlighting the challenges of adapting to a new economic system and the mixed feelings toward sudden exposure to Western consumer culture. Additionally, it includes a reflective conversation on post-reunification life in Germany, discussing Sirka's and her family's adjustment to the changes, including the effects on employment, homeownership, and personal political histories.Video and photo extras here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode339The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and viaa simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a sought-after CWC coaster as a thank you and you’ll bask in the warm glow of knowing you are helping to preserve Cold War history.Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/If a monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, we welcome one-off donations via the same link.Connect with us on social media for more Cold War content:Twitter: https://twitter.com/ColdWarPodInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/coldwarconversations/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/coldwarpod/YouTube: https://youtube.com/@ColdWarConversationsFor the perfect gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life, visit our store at https://coldwarconversations.com/store/If you love history, check out Into History at https://intohistory.com/coldwarpod

00:00 Preview00:22 Welcome to Cold War Conversations00:36 Life in East Germany: An Insider's Perspective01:50 Circa's Childhood and Family Life in Neubrandenburg03:33 The Impact of World War II on Family Histories05:42 Navigating Post-War East Germany07:53 The East German Regime Through a Family's Eyes10:31 Cultural and Educational Experiences in East Germany23:23 The Challenges of Consumer Goods and Entertainment25:39 School Life and Education in East Germany34:17 Extracurricular Activities: Singing Club and Gymnastics44:58 The Intensity of Gymnastics Training in East Germany46:15 The Secret Gymnastics Pills48:14 The Grueling Training Regime and Its Impact49:46 The Power of Music and Discipline in a Regimented Society50:38 The Harsh Realities of Military-Style Training51:39 Life Under an Autocratic System: Acceptance and Adaptation55:26 The Transition to College and the End of Gymnastics55:56 Exploring Moscow: A Glimpse into the Space Race01:03:37 Witnessing the Winds of Change: The Fall of the Berlin Wall01:14:21 Navigating the New World: Post-Wall Challenges and Reflections01:25:05 A Journey Back in Time: Revisiting Memories and the Stasi FilesLearn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices