Managed the Beatles' primary pub for three decades: Inge (69), the local tavern keeper
In St. Pauli, Germany, a notable podcast titled "Kiezmenschen" offers insights into the lives of various cult figures and strong women who significantly contribute to the unique character of the district. One such figure is Inge Malewitsch, affectionately known as "the woman behind the bar at Gretel & Alfons" [1].
For three decades, this diminutive woman, standing barely 1.54 meters tall, played a pivotal role at the iconic venue, once serving as the unofficial living room for Star Club musicians, including the Beatles, who would quickly grab a beer between performances.
Inge reminisces about Gretel's constant supply of stew and liverwurst sandwiches for the musicians [1]. She also recalls an instance when the Beatles failed to settle their tab, a debt that was eventually paid off by one of the Pilzheads decades later [1].
Inge's life story is marked by resilience. After her husband's passing, she was left alone with three children and, by chance, took up the role of a waitress at Gretel & Alfons [1]. She discusses her "automatic wake-up call" and her eccentric back, opens up about overbearing guests, wild party nights, and the transformations on the Reeperbahn, and shares her thoughts on her retirement and future aspirations.
The podcast "Kiezmenschen," presented by KultKieztouren.de, aims to shed light on the often-overlooked individuals who greatly impact St. Pauli. Many of the podcast's guests have previously appeared on the KultKieztouren tours, including Veuve Noire, Fabian Zahrt, and Olli Zeriadtke, among others [3].
Listeners can tune in to the podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Beyond the podcast, the weekly MOPO report delves deeper into the stories of St. Pauli's original residents [1].
From the glamorous to the gritty, the podcast provides an intimate look at the lives of strong women and flashy characters who call St. Pauli home [1]. The podcast, as well as KultKieztouren, showcases the diversity of St. Pauli's community, featuring individuals from various professional backgrounds, emphasizing the vibrant and resilient spirit of the neighborhood.
- Inge Malewitsch, a prominent figure in St. Pauli, discusses her unique lifestyle that revolves around fashion-and-beauty, food-and-drink, and home-and-garden, as she shares memories from her time as a waitress at Gretel & Alfons.
- The podcast "Kiezmenschen" introduces listeners to a world filled with interesting relationships, ranging from her dealings with Star Club musicians such as the Beatles to her interactions with demanding guests in the bustling district.
- Inge, a pet lover, recounts anecdotes involving her life with three children, embodying the resilience often required in pets and people alike.
- For travel enthusiasts, the podcast offers intriguing insights into the transformations on the Reeperbahn, providing a virtual tour of St. Pauli's rich history and vibrant culture.
- The podcast shopping section features stories of strong women and flashy characters who, like those who frequent car dealerships, live life to the fullest and leave an indelible mark on the neighborhood.