Advertise on podcast: Meet the Expats

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 We talk about culture shock, common expat mistakes, outdated information, scams, and why moving without the right support can quickly become overwhelming.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.

Meet Taha Siddiqui, Pakistani award-winning journalist, he has been living in exile in Paris since 2018, following a kidnapping attempt. Listen to his journey from fleeing Pakistan, to finding exile in France with his family, and building a new life by founding the Dissident Club, a Parisian cultural bar open to all. His recommendations: 🥩 Eat at a Bouillon in Paris (Bouillon Chartier, Bouillon Julien, Bouillon Pigalle) for traditional food in a lively art deco hall Have a stroll and picnic along Canal de l'Ourqq His song Liquid Spirit by Gregory Porter 📚Find his book here Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Meet Marc, Fellow Expat podcaster he has moved his life twice now, in two very different situations. In this episode he shares how he left is native Spain, to settle in Frankfurt, Germany, with only 2 weeks notice 😱, as a job opportunity came up, and then a few years later, this time in a remote job he followed his partner who had an opportunity in Athens. Now settled in Athens he shares his insights on Greek life: the slow way of life of the city, and the small-town vibes each neighborhood has to offer. His recommendations in Athens: ☕ Banca café 🍸 Ramon bar 🛹 Latraac skate café 🌯 Lostre Kuisina for Greek cuisine His song 🎤 from the band Social Waste Listen to his podcast Expat Experts Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.