Munich – September 04, 2026 -- A new episode of "Hartz und herzlich - Tag für Tag Rostock" airs September 1, 2026 at 8:15 PM on RTLZWEI, with the episode available seven days early on RTL+.
Jasmin and Maik juggle housing search with benefits renewal
The couple currently lives temporarily with Maik's mother Bärbel while searching for their own apartment. They face a Jobcenter appointment to renew their social benefits applications. Maik has also interviewed in person at a landscaping company, with the conversation opening up the possibility of a mini-job as a starting point.
Retiree Jana hopes to take her first-ever vacation
Jana plans a trip with her children and grandchildren, which would mark the first journey of her life. She and her daughter Steffi search together for accommodations, but quickly discover how tight their budget is. Many offers exceed what they can afford, leaving mother and daughter discouraged as they search for an affordable destination for the whole family.
A 33-year-old Rostock woman reconnects with a rescue dog from Russia
Brigitte's daughter Jana receives a visit from Toni, a dog she previously fostered who now lives with an acquaintance. Toni spent two years living on the streets in Russia before coming to families in Germany. Spending time with him reignites Jana's wish for a dog of her own, though she also wants to return to work and worries she wouldn't have the capacity to care for a pet.
Marita files paperwork to secure her housing benefit
Marita, a trained home economics worker living with elevated blood pressure and heart palpitations, receives a disability pension and relies on housing benefit to cover her living costs. To keep that support in place, she must now submit the required renewal application.