Meet the Expats

Meet with Urmi , an Italian with Bengali roots who grew up in Italy, spent time in the UK, and has now been living in Montreal, Canada for the past decade. Urmi is a Third Culture Kid , and her story is one of navigating different identities. Growing up with Bengali parents in Italy, she experienced a “dual life”: one version of herself at school and another at home. She shares the challenges of feeling both Italian and not quite Italian, while also feeling different within her Bengali community. We follow her journey from Sicily to Northern Italy, then to the UK as a teenager, before she eventually made the move to Canada — this time entirely by her own choice. Montreal turned out to be a surprising fit. Urmi talks about discovering a city that is deeply multicultural and bilingual, where she now works in French despite having studied in English. She also shares the little things that help her recreate a feeling of home. We also dive into working in Canada , including some important advice for anyone hoping to build a career in Montreal. Urmi explains why networking, LinkedIn, professional references and mentorship can be particularly important in the Canadian job market — and why being able to work in both French and English can make a major difference in Quebec. And as a TCK, does she see Montreal as her final home? Not necessarily. We talk about the idea that once you've grown up moving, you may always keep the door open to another country, another opportunity and another adventure. In this episode, we talk about: Growing up Italian with Bengali parents The challenges of having a dual cultural identity Life as a Third Culture Kid Moving from Italy to the UK as a teenager Discovering multicultural Montreal Finding a job in Canada as an expat Finding pieces of Italy in Montreal Why TCKs may always feel ready for another move 📍 Urmi's Montreal recommendations: ☕ Café Italia — a 70-year-old Italian café where Urmi goes for coffee, Italian conversation and a taste of home. 🍕 Pizzeria Gemma — for Italian-style, thin-crust pizza. 🍰 Casa di Totò — a Neapolitan family-run spot for Italian treats including cannoli, coda d’aragosta and sfogliatelle. 🎵 Urmi's Expat Song: Perdono — Tiziano Ferro 🎙️ Urmi's podcast: Stories Beyond Borders — a podcast exploring immigration stories, Third Culture Kids, identity and the meaning of home. If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe, leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, and follow Meet the Expats on Instagram, TikTok and YouTube for more stories from people building lives across borders. Follow for more expat stories: 📘 Meet the Expats Blog 📹 Youtube Channel 📱 Instagram 📱TikTok Credits: Intro outro Ice tea, Not the king Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Meet Denison Smith, an American novelist who recently traded the wide-open landscapes of New Mexico for the rolling countryside of Portugal’s Alentejo region. In this episode, Denison shares the story behind her move from the United States to Portugal, a journey that was years in the making thanks to Portugal’s Golden Visa program. What started as an “insurance policy” gradually became a life-changing decision, prompted by political shifts in the U.S., a desire for new possibilities, and the opportunity to build a slower, more intentional life abroad. We talk about the realities of relocating to Portugal, from navigating Portuguese bureaucracy and learning the language in a rural community to buying a home in the Alentejo and finding an unexpected network of artists, creatives, and fellow internationals living off the beaten path. Denison also reflects on the challenges of importing her car, surviving one of Portugal’s wettest winters in recent memory, and adapting to a culture where things happen face-to-face and at a very different pace. Along the way, we discuss what makes Portugal so appealing to expats: the warmth of local communities, the slower rhythm of life, the sense of trust between neighbors, and the beauty of living in a place where human connection still comes first. Denison also introduces her newly released novel, The Westward Hours , a speculative fiction story that explores climate change, political upheaval, resilience, and humanity’s relationship with the land. Interestingly, the themes of the novel mirror many of the reasons that ultimately led him to make the move to Portugal. If you're considering moving to Portugal, curious about life in the Alentejo, or interested in hearing an honest account of starting over abroad later in life, this episode is full of insights, stories, and practical realities. 📖 Denison's book: The Westward Hours by Denison Smith Restaurant recommendation: Howard's Folly 🎤Expat song: Que Sera Sera by Doris Day (from The Man Who Knew Too Much) Follow for more expat stories: 📘 Meet the Expats Blog 📹 Youtube Channel 📱 Instagram 📱TikTok Credits: Intro outro Ice tea, Not the king Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Meet Amanda, Who at the age of 17 started a nomadic lifestyle, bartending across 10 different countries, seizing every opportunity, before settling down with her family in Copenhagen. Amanda shares her reverse culture shock when moving back to the US, and more about life, culture shocks and the wonderful work-life balance in Denmark. Follow for more expat stories: 📘 Meet the Expats Blog 📹 Youtube Channel 📱 Instagram 📱TikTok Credits: Intro outro Ice tea, Not the king Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Meet Maddalena, an Italian relationship and dating coach now living in London, whose expat journey took her from a small town in Southern Italy to Dublin, Rome, and eventually London. In this episode, Maddalena shares how living abroad transformed not only her life, but also her approach to love, dating, and emotional connection. Dublin became her turning point. What started as an exciting new chapter quickly turned into a deeper personal journey. Away from her support system, Maddalena began noticing repeating patterns in her relationships — idealising partners, confusing chemistry with compatibility, and unconsciously building emotional barriers to protect herself. “ When you are abroad you build a barrier unconsciously… this barrier makes you feel stronger and independent, but at the same time it blocks intimacy. ” Through self-reflection, journaling, and learning to lower those emotional walls, Maddalena began to understand how expat life can amplify existing patterns. Loneliness, independence, and uncertainty often create a push-and-pull dynamic: wanting connection while simultaneously keeping people at a distance. She also shares powerful insights into common expat dating patterns: Dating casually because you know you might leave Choosing "safe" relationships to prove stability Confusing chemistry with real compatibility Seeking connection from a place of need rather than alignment “ Chemistry is a spark, but it's not everything… Alignment is knowing your values, your non-negotiables, and asking deeper questions. ” Today in London, Maddalena feels more grounded. Now a relationship coach, she helps expat women navigate dating abroad, gain awareness of their patterns, and create meaningful relationships built on emotional availability and alignment. Whether you're newly abroad, navigating loneliness, or simply curious about how expat life shapes relationships, this episode offers thoughtful reflections and practical advice on dating while living internationally. 🎧 Expat Songs Tubthumping — Chumbawamba “I get knocked down, but I get up again” — Maddalena’s Dublin anthem that reflected her resilience during her transformation abroad Jazz music in London — Maddalena’s go-to vibe for relaxed, meaningful moments in the city www.maddalenavario.com Follow for more expat stories: 📘 Meet the Expats Blog 📹 Youtube Channel 📱 Instagram 📱TikTok Credits: Intro outro Ice tea, Not the king Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Meet Yolanda, a global expat who has relocated six times across the world before eventually settling in California — what started as a one-year adventure turned into 16 years, two children, and a deep journey of rebuilding home from scratch. In this episode, Yolanda shares how she and her husband moved to the U.S. after winning the Green Card lottery, chasing sunshine and a new adventure. But beyond the excitement of Yosemite road trips and the honeymoon phase of expat life, reality soon set in: loneliness, cultural differences, and the unexpected challenge of building a life — not just living in a new place. Yolanda opens up about the emotional side of relocating: missing the sounds of city life, struggling with surface-level friendships, and becoming a new mother far from family support. She explains how she navigated homesickness, built meaningful rituals, and intentionally created community — from coffee shop routines to long walks with her baby, and eventually returning to university at Berkeley to reconnect with purpose and people. This conversation explores the deeper side of expat life: Why speaking the same language doesn’t mean cultural ease The difference between friendliness and real friendship How to build belonging when community doesn’t come naturally Why rituals — even small ones — can transform your expat experience Learning what you truly need to thrive abroad Yolanda also shares how understanding cultural differences, including what she calls a “stranger-danger” mindset in the U.S., helped her stop taking things personally and instead build authentic relationships intentionally. This episode is a thoughtful and honest conversation about identity, resilience, and the work required to truly feel at home abroad. Whether you're considering a move, newly relocated, or years into expat life, Yolanda’s experience is full of relatable insights and practical inspiration. Café & Bar Recommendations (California – Marin County & Napa Area) Blue Barn — A favorite local spot for brunch and salads (Yolanda recommends the Thai chicken salad) Jacuzzi Family Vineyards — Beautiful vineyard near Sonoma with unique infused olive oils and wine tasting Dr. Wilkinson’s Backyard Resort & Mineral Springs (Calistoga) — Relaxing spa experience perfect for a special day Golden Haven Hot Springs (Calistoga) — Another wellness escape in Napa Valley 🎧 Also mentioned: Yolanda’s podcast — The Places We Call Home Expat song: Spice Girls Wannabe a nostalgic Brit-abroad tradition during afternoon tea gatherings Follow for more expat stories: 📘 Meet the Expats Blog 📹 Youtube Channel 📱 Instagram 📱TikTok Credits: Intro outro Ice tea, Not the king Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Follow for more expat stories: 📘 Meet the Expats Blog 📹 Youtube Channel 📱 Instagram 📱TikTok Credits: Intro outro Ice tea, Not the king Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Meet Shannon, an American expat who followed love to Germany—and ended up building a thriving small business in Baden-Württemberg. Originally from the San Francisco area, Shannon moved to Germany for what was meant to be a temporary chapter. Fourteen years later, she’s still there, raising a family and running her own aesthetics business from the ground up. In this episode, we talk about navigating entrepreneurship abroad, dealing with German bureaucracy, learning the language while building a client base, and adapting to cultural differences without losing yourself. Shannon shares the reality of starting a business as an expat woman in Germany, the importance of community (especially when friendships come and go), and how she blended her American personality with German culture to create a business that truly works—for her and her clients. An honest, warm conversation about resilience, identity, and building something of your own far from home. 📍 Location Recommendations (Germany) Kazumi (Böblingen) – her go-to sushi spot Motorworld Böblingen – where her business is located, plus bars, restaurants, and car lovers’ heaven Brazilian Churrasco Restaurant (Stuttgart) – lively atmosphere, music, and all-you-can-eat Brazilian BBQ 🎶 Expat Song “ I Follow Rivers ” – a song that captures the leap of faith that brought her to Germany Find Shannon: www.californiaglowbeauty.com Related article: Starting a business in Germany Follow for more expat stories: 📘 Meet the Expats Blog 📹 Youtube Channel 📱 Instagram 📱TikTok Credits: Intro outro Ice tea, Not the king Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Meet Josh, Entrepreneur, community builder, and Dutch expat who turned isolation on the French Riviera into connection, and a thriving international community. Joshua moved to the South of France in 2018 with his wife, chasing a better quality of life, sunshine, and a slower pace. What he didn’t expect was how isolating life abroad could feel, even in one of the most beautiful regions in the world. In this episode, we talk about the reality of settling into the French Riviera: navigating language barriers, adapting to a slower (very slow) pace of life, and the challenges of building genuine friendships in a place shaped by tourism and transient expat populations. how that experience led him to create Next Locals , a community-first platform born from simple meetups over drinks, consistency, and the desire to bring like-minded people together offline French culture, the importance of making an effort with the language, the differences between Paris and the South, and how creating a “tribe” is what truly makes a place feel like home. 🎤Song Tell Ol’ Bill - Alternate version by Bob Dylan: https://open.spotify.com/track/4UFz15tiyxEV8w70Az6GtN?si=Rxnj3klnSPiKVVxdhXxTIA 🍕Restaurant recommendations in Cagnes-sur-Mer. La Spiaggia : https://www.laspiaggiaplage.com/ Le Bistrot de la Marine: https://lebistrotdelamarine.fr/ Next Locals website: https://nextlocals.com/ Follow for more expat stories: 📘 Meet the Expats Blog 📹 Youtube Channel 📱 Instagram 📱TikTok Credits: Intro outro Ice tea, Not the king Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Meet Zach and Anna, Serial expats and founders of StartAbroad , a relocation company built from real-life experience moving abroad, sometimes with support, sometimes completely on their own. From the Dominican Republic to Kenya, Rwanda, an unexpected year stuck in the US during Covid, and finally settling in Costa Rica, Zach and Anna share the highs, lows, and emotional rollercoaster of expat life. We talk about culture shock, common expat mistakes, outdated information, scams, and why moving without the right support can quickly become overwhelming. They also explain why they created StartAbroad , the kind of practical and emotional support expats really need, and what it means to truly adapt to a new culture, especially when raising a child abroad. Costa Rica Recommendations Gingerbread (Nuevo Arenal) – their favourite local restaurant (pro tip: ask for the chef’s menu) Playa Conchal – white sand, crystal-clear water, and perfect beach days Marino Ballena National Park – home to the iconic Whale Tail beach on the South Pacific coast Expat Song “ Under the Sea ” (salsa version) by Alejandro Sanz – the soundtrack of this chapter of their expat life Considering a move abroad, book a free consultation call Relocating to Costa Rica? Follow for more expat stories: 📘 Meet the Expats Blog 📹 Youtube Channel 📱 Instagram 📱TikTok Credits: Intro outro Ice tea, Not the king Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Meet Tracey, Relocation coach, somatic practitioner, and six-time expat who has turned “trying it for three months” into a life philosophy. In this episode, we explore what it really means to build home within yourself —especially when life (and identity) keeps shifting with every move. Tracey takes us through her first unexpected opportunity at just 16, the resilience she discovered in herself, and the massive identity shift that unfolded years later in Canada, where she learned that relocation doesn’t fix what hurts, it magnifies it. We dive into her FEEL framework for processing emotions abroad, the five emotional phases of relocation, how to recognise when it’s time to move on, and why true belonging has more to do with your inner landscape than your postcode. She also shares her favourite New York spots (get ready for tacos + crepe cakes!) and the expat song that anchors her to our shared humanity. Short, deep, and soul-stretching—this one is for anyone navigating the messy middle of expat life. Footnotes & Links Tracey’s Recommendations in New York: Los Tacos No. 1 – Her go-to for some of the best tacos in the city. Lady M – For the famous crepe cakes (matcha is her favourite). Her Expat Song: “ Streets of London ” by Ralph McTell – A reminder of compassion, connection, and the stories we all carry. Resources Mentioned: Contact Tracey: www.traceyzhang.com Tracey’s FEEL Framework (Find, Express, Embrace, Let It Move) Her ebook: Five Emotional Phases of Relocation Related article: Identity shifts abroad Youtube video: https://youtu.be/wPcHq5IiAqk Follow for more expat stories: 📘 Meet the Expats Blog 📹 Youtube Channel 📱 Instagram 📱TikTok Credits: Intro outro Ice tea, Not the king Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Meet Nancy, After two decades of living abroad in Switzerland and Denmark, Nancy opens up about navigating grief as an expat — balancing a global career in biotech with the heartbreak of losing loved ones from afar. She shares how returning to the U.S. reshaped her sense of home, what helped her cope with loss overseas, and how she found purpose again by building a new life (and business) back in Montana. We discuss: Managing grief and guilt while living abroad Staying connected to family from thousands of miles away Reverse culture shock and the pull of “coming home” Finding community and faith through life transitions The importance of slowing down and listening to your instincts Nancy’s Picks: 🇩🇰 Copenhagen — Zahida for vibrant dinners & Union Kitchen for a cozy brunch ☕ Montana — City Brew Coffee, where friendly faces make homecoming sweeter 🎵 The expat song: Great Is Thy Faithfulness — a reminder of strength, wherever you are Related article: Managing grief as an expat Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Meet Megan, From starting out as an au pair in Germany to running her own language coaching business, Megan talks about how travel shaped her career, changed her mindset, her top tips for learning languages, and why confidence is the secret to better communication. We discuss: Building confidence when learning a new language The difference between language lessons and coaching Overcoming “learned helplessness” and perfectionism Tips for immersion — from switching your phone language to joining local meetups Megan’s Mexico Picks: 🌮 Tropical Tacos — for cochinita and mezcalitas 🥐 Media lunas from local bakeries (Argentinian croissants!) 🍝 Francesca’s (Italian) & Celine’s (French) for international flavors 💧 Cenotes — natural lagoons perfect for a refreshing afternoon swim The expat song: Leaving on a jet plane, by John Denvers Find Megan: Megalanguagecoach www.linkedin.com/in/megan-nicholls-59a47077 https://www.instagram.com/megalanguagecoach https://www.youtube.com/@megalanguagecoach Related articles: Moving abroad when you don't speak the language How to learn a new language Video: https://youtu.be/GL3_KG17BnY Take online language classes with Lingoda Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Meet Dr. Elefant Yanni , a Swiss psychologist now based in Singapore, who has built a career helping expats and international couples navigate the highs and lows of life abroad. From her first move to Canada, then Korea, and now Singapore, Dr. Yanni shares how each relocation shaped her understanding of relationships, resilience, and the invisible bonds between expats. In this conversation, we dive into the realities of expat life—the loneliness of the “trailing spouse,” the provider complex that can strain couples, and the small daily habits that keep love and family strong when everything around you changes. With practical tips on making friends, cherishing couple time, and knowing when to seek support, this episode is a gentle reminder that while expat life can be challenging, it’s also a unique chance to grow, connect, and rediscover yourself. Footnotes 🌏 Free Guide – 3D Human Therapy : Download Dr. Yanni’s free guide to psychological independence at psychologyexperts.online/3dform. 🍜 Singapore Favorites : Eat : East Coast Lagoon Food Village – hawker delights with Michelin-worthy bites by the sea. Drink : Atlas Bar – a breathtaking Art Deco landmark with world-class cocktails. Coffee & Pastries : Tiong Bahru Bakery – French pastries meet turmeric lattes in true expat fusion. 🎶 Expat Song : Fleeting Future by Akusmi – a soundtrack to the fleeting moments that shape our lives abroad. Related article: Dealing with emotional burnout due to expat life pressure . Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Meet Rehka, Co-founder of Boundless Life , a program that helps families live, learn, and work abroad together. From childhood trips and student exchanges to creating a whole new way of schooling on the road, Rekha shares her journey to building a community where children thrive and parents connect while traveling the world. She tells us about the spark that inspired Boundless Life, what a day in their schools looks like, and the magic of building deep friendships across cultures. ✨ Rekha’s recommendations: Café: Zest , Ubud, Bali Restaurant: Souldough Pizza , Portugal Carte blanche: Watching the sunset from the cliffs of Syros, Greece Expat song: “ I Am Light ” by India.Arie Related article: How families can go nomad. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Meet Tim, Who met his Mexican wife at work in the US, at the time none spoke each other's language, but still they pushed through one word at the time. His wife, who already had children back in Mexico, had to go back to take care of them, and that's when their 18 year long distance relationship started, with children that he did not see grow up. During those 18 years, Tim managed to go visit her in Mexico 3 times, this by walking, yes walking across the US, until he eventually moved full time to Acapulco a year ago. He's now discovered a completely different life, far from the confort and safety he knew in the US but will finally be present throughout his newborn's life. His recommendations: Sharon's Renacimento location https://www.sharons.mx/ Song: El Pipazo de la Simon Bolivar https://youtube.com/watch?v=rX3ZgGhbEDc&si=1WKggaJedu1kKl3L Website: www.familyreunitenetwork.com Amazon Book: https://a.co/d/5TLZyhu Instagram: @familyreunite Facebook: @tscottfamilyreunite Tiktok: @familyreunite Youtube: @familyreunite Related article Managing Grief as an expat Meet the Expats the blog To support the podcast: https://en.tipeee.com/meet-the-expats Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Meet Tsahia, After years of working in the healthcare sector in the US, it was time for a change: a Luxury Marketing Masters in Paris, her dream city. In this episode Tsahia shares her culture shocks regarding life in Paris and differences in the educational system. We also discuss the similarities and differences with Emily in Paris, the fashion style and how she made friends through communities and her open spirit. Her recommendations: Petit Marcel for the snails Le Gainsbourg for cocktails for a fancy treat La Réserve and Le Luttecia hotel bars 🎤 Expat song, I'm gonna to it my way. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Meet Natasha, She left Russia with her family to move to Boston, despite the US not being her dream country. After finding a contract there, and trying to fit in to the culture, she moved on her own to New York, where she discovered a vibrant and buzzing city. 4 years in, it was time for a change and to live her dream: move to London. In this episode we discuss The differences when moving with your family versus moving alone and by choice: the empowerment this brings as well as the pressure and anxiety. How it becomes easier the second time, despite still feeling uncomfortable Her NYC recommendations: Coffee & flower shop: Artisan 32 Food Gallery Carte blanche: Bryant Park Her expat song: Stronger by Thunderstorm Artis To support the podcast: https://fr.tipeee.com/meet-the-expats Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Meet Angela, New Yorker now living in Brussels, Belgium. After a layoff as a teacher in the US, Angela decided to make her first move abroad to South Korea. As South Korea did not "feel like real life", as in she did not see herself settling there for good, The Netherlands seemed like a good option for her. She moved there, and set up her business discovered the local culture for a few years before moving next door to Brussels with her partner, but this time pregnant. In this episode she shares her tips to settle in a new culture and welcome a child, also how important it is important to communicate with your partner your expectations and boundaries for life abroad, and life abroad with children, moreover when both of you come from different cultures. Her recommendations in Brussels 🎶 Jazz at L'archiduc Jazz 🥩 Have diner at Saint Géry Expat song, Adventure of a lifetime by Coldplay Find Angela: https://www.expatparentingcollective.com/ Related article: Expat parenting tips Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Meet Tu-Oahn, Half French half American, she grew up between France and Tahiti where she had family, before moving off to Los Angeles living the American teenage and college dream. She is now back in France, where she joined Ayoub as co-founder of Carom, a unique social networking app designed to connect you with like-minded individuals who share your interests and activities. As an expat and as an adult, meeting new people or just connecting with your friends to go out to restaurants or events is harder. Carom enables these connections around cultural, foodie, and sports activities. Her recommendations in Paris Restaurant Hemicycle for the pastry chef Opéra Garnier Concerts at Hotel le Marois Song Max Richter the Four seasons Learn more about Carom: https://caromapp.page.link/okRuxdSm7cUU5nWz5 Related article: 10 proven ways to make friends as an expat Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Meet Fiorenza, Expat in London for 14 years now, she shares her love for languages and how she is juggling her Italian and french roots while living in London bringing up two kids who are embracing all the cultures and languages they are surrounded with and making them their own. We dive into education differences in France, Italy and the UK. how Fiorenza has become so attached to vibrant London and of course she shares her recommendations for the city. Sky garden for food with amazing views Lockdown Bakehouse bakery for the best croissant Carte blanche: the parks in London Hampstead Heath The expat song: Growing up by Run River North https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fz4ZOAsjW6g Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.