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Almost Local: Living Abroad Stories

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Rating
★★★★★
4.6
from
8 reviews
This podcast has
97 episodes
Language
English
Explicit
No
Date created
2024/03/10
Latest episode
2026/10/19
Average duration
51 min.
Release period
9 days

Description

Almost Local is a podcast about the honest, human side of building a life somewhere new. Hosted by Marc Alcobé, the show goes beyond visas, moving checklists, and picture-perfect foreigner stories to explore what it really means to live abroad. Through thoughtful conversations with people around the world, Almost Local looks at belonging, identity, culture shock, loneliness, community, and the slow process of turning an unfamiliar place into something that feels like home. These are stories of living between cultures, redefining where you’re from, and discovering who you become when life takes you elsewhere. Whether you’re already living abroad, planning a move, or simply curious about life in another country, Almost Local is a space for reflection, connection, and real experiences beyond borders. New episodes every two weeks on Mondays, featuring personal stories from around the world, shared with honesty, depth, and nuance.

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Check latest episodes from Almost Local: Living Abroad Stories podcast


#75 - The Hidden Trade-Offs of Building a Business Abroad: What Nobody Tells You with Laura Baringer
2026/10/19
Laura Baringer shares her journey of career reinvention and international relocation, highlighting the emotional impact of leaving international development, the challenges of identity and imposter syndrome, and the importance of family values in the decision-making process. She discusses her purpose and business reinvention, focusing on supporting solopreneurs and the nuances of providing advice for business growth and development. And, also shares her role as a strategic generalist in business, helping individuals navigate career transitions, make trade-offs, and overcome challenges in entrepreneurship. At the end of the episode she emphasizes the importance of overcoming rejection, building networks, and transitioning to solopreneurship. Additionally, highlights the significance of purpose-driven business foundations. Key topics Career reinvention involves emotional and identity challenges.Family values play a significant role in relocation decisions.Supporting solopreneurs requires understanding individual needs and business growth nuances. Strategic generalist role in businessNavigating career transitionsOvercoming rejection and building networksTransitioning to solopreneurshipPurpose-driven business foundations 🎙️ The guest: Laura Baringer Laura Baringer is a certified business coach who helps solopreneurs and entrepreneurs build sustainable, values-aligned businesses. In this episode, she also shares her own journey living across the US, Europe, and Rwanda, and how leaving international development led her to reinvent her career around purpose, flexibility, and doing hard things scared. 🔗 Guest Links https://www.purposebuiltbylaura.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurabaringer/https://www.instagram.com/purposebuiltbylaura/ What we discuss: 00:00 Introducing Laura Baringer03:11 Career Reinvention and International Development06:02 Transitioning to a New Country08:59 Leaving International Development11:51 Identity and Imposter Syndrome14:58 Emotional Impact of Career Transition18:03 Family Values and Relocation21:04 Purpose and Business Reinvention23:58 Supporting Solopreneurs26:40 Strategic Generalist in Business28:14 Navigating Career Transitions29:24 Trade-offs and Decision Making30:15 Challenges in Entrepreneurship31:43 Overcoming Rejection and Building Networks35:51 Transitioning to Solopreneurship45:35 Purpose-Driven Business Foundations Check and subscribe to the The Almost Local Letter 🗞️: https://almostlocal.riverside.com/newsletter
#74 - Why Changing Cities Doesn’t Fix What You’re Running From with Tracey Zhang
2026/10/05
The conversation delves into the emotional side of moving abroad, exploring the impact of major life transitions, navigating emotional loneliness, and the use of somatic practices for emotional healing. It also addresses the myths and realities of loneliness, emphasizing the importance of self-love, belonging, and the power of softness. Key topics Loneliness is a natural part of the human experienceBelonging is something you build, not something you findSoftness and self-love are sources of true power 🎙️ The guest: Tracey Zhang Tracey is a somatic coach and practitioner who helps people navigate the emotional challenges of relocation and major life transitions. Drawing on her own experience of living across multiple cities, she supports people through loneliness, grief, identity shifts, and the process of building an inner sense of home. 🔗 Guest Links www.traceyzhang.comhttps://www.instagram.com/traceyz7501 💼 Start Your Remote U.S Business: Register Your U.S. Business in 2 Days: https://tidd.ly/469FwfRCreate a Virtual Mailbox: https://tidd.ly/4iCOaenCheck the Complete Digital Nomad Kit: https://tidd.ly/4r0vg39Secure Your Employer Identification Number (EIN): https://tidd.ly/4ylxOeu What we discuss: 00:00 The Emotional Side of Moving Abroad01:32 The Unplanned Journey03:13 The Impact of Major Life Transitions04:10 Navigating Emotional Loneliness08:45 The Relocation Loop11:47 Building an Inner Home21:44 Somatic Practices for Emotional Healing31:57 Myth vs. Reality: Loneliness Check and subscribe to the The Almost Local Letter 🗞️: https://almostlocal.riverside.com/newsletter
#73 - Brain Fitness Explained: The Missing Skill for Rebuilding After Shock with Arnold Beekes
2026/09/21
Arnold Beekes shares how a global corporate career, a series of moves across Vietnam, Hungary, Romania, and Paraguay, and a deep family crisis shaped his work on brain fitness. This conversation is about more than living abroad - it’s about how people handle shock, identity shifts, and the invisible limits that keep them stuck. We explore why adaptability matters more than rigid resilience, how brain fitness differs from simple positive thinking, and why lasting change has to be personal rather than copied from someone else’s playbook. Key topics Years of corporate travel across Europe and the US led him to want to actually live abroad, not just pass through it.Why Vietnam didn’t work for him, why Budapest felt right, and how Hungary’s startup energy and scene made it a strong fit for him.A sister’s depression and a failed therapy system pushed him to question mental health care and start thinking about prevention instead of treatment alone.Brain fitness as psychological and physiological well-being where a person uses their uniqueness, handles challenges, learns continuously, and contributes to the world.The “invisible strait jackets” that limit people, especially the feeling of “I’m not good enough,” which Arnold sees as a common barrier across many lives. 🎙️ The guest: Arnold Beekes Brain Athletes founder and brain fitness advocate who helps people build mental and emotional resilience through self-awareness, adaptability, and practical training. He’s also a seasoned global traveler who has lived across multiple countries and turned his own life shocks into a framework for personal growth. 🔗 Guest Links https://twitter.com/ArnoldBeekeshttps://www.linkedin.com/in/arnoldbeekeshttps://youtube.com/@ArnoldBeekeshttps://www.facebook.com/arnold.beekeshttps://braingym.fitness/https://www.brainathletes.club/ What we discuss: 00:00 - Introducing Arnold Beekes02:07 - How Arnold’s international career began05:42 - The financial crisis that pushed him out of the Netherlands09:06 - Why Vietnam did not work out but Budapest did10:25 - Caring for his mother for eight years11:06 - Why Romania felt like the next move, and then Paraguay14:19 - Where brain fitness entered the story15:25 - The family crisis that changed everything19:19 - Brain fitness as prevention, not just recovery22:34 - The “invisible strait jackets” people get trapped in24:50 - Why self-help formulas often fail27:31 - Why context matters more than generic advice38:32 - The three brains: head, heart, and gut44:24 - Where to find Arnold and Brain Athletes Check and subscribe to the The Almost Local Letter 🗞️: https://almostlocal.riverside.com/newsletter
#72 - How Podcasting Became a Business Model for Living Abroad with Roy Coughlan
2026/09/07
The conversation covers a range of topics including changes in infrastructure, safety, and lifestyle in Poland, as well as the evolution of podcasting as a business. It also delves into the use of AI in podcast production and the challenges of maintaining multiple podcasts. The conversation with Roy Coughlan covers various aspects of podcasting, including the benefits of podcasting, strategies for success, public speaking tips, and podcasting equipment recommendations. Roy also shares insights on hosting multiple shows, the importance of preparation, and the value of short-form clips for marketing. Additionally, he emphasizes the significance of systemizing the podcasting process and provides advice on engaging with listeners and guests. Key topics Infrastructure improvements in Poland have led to better roads and city development.Safety and lifestyle in Poland are highlighted as positive aspects of living there.Podcasting has evolved from a hobby to a business, with a focus on engagement and monetization.The use of AI in podcast production has streamlined processes and improved efficiency. Commit to podcasting for at least a year to see the benefitsPreparation and systemization are key to successful podcastingShort-form clips and interactive content can enhance audience engagement 🎙️ The guest: Roy Coughlan Roy is a seasoned podcaster and coach who has built a flexible, fully online media business around multiple shows, consistency, and smart systems. He comes across as practical, experienced, and candid, with a strong focus on simplicity, resilience, and helping creators avoid common podcasting mistakes. 🔗 Guest Links https://roycoughlan.com/https://va.world/https://brainupgrade.orghttps://www.facebook.com/roycoughlanhttps://www.instagram.com/roy_coughlan/https://www.youtube.com/@roycoughlanhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/roycoughlan/ What we discuss: 00:00 Introduction03:13 Safety and Lifestyle in Poland05:22 Evolution of Podcasting as a Business22:28 Challenges and Automation in Podcast Production31:24 Benefits of Podcasting35:13 Strategies for Success35:28 Public Speaking Tips47:51 Podcasting Equipment Recommendations54:50 Hosting Multiple Shows Check and subscribe to the The Almost Local Letter 🗞️: https://almostlocal.riverside.com/newsletter
#71 - The Things Nobody Tells You About Living in Athens as a Foreigner with Anthony Muiruri
2026/08/24
Marc Alcobé speaks with Anthony Muiruri, a Kenya-born author, speaker, and MC now based in Athens, Greece. The conversation explores what it really takes to adapt to life in Greece, from language and culture to work, healthcare, and the realities of bureaucracy. Key topics He shares what life was like growing up in Kenya, including walking 5 kilometers to school each way and helping on the farm with animals.Anthony explains how Greece became his first real move abroad, even though he had originally dreamed of going to the U.S.He describes the early culture shock in Athens, especially language barriers.Anthony talks about how his professional path started to take shape in Greece through personal development.He explains how TikTok during lockdown accelerated his visibility and pushed him toward writing.He describes the Kenyan community in Greece as small but highly supportive.He compares life in Kenya and Greece across cost of living, work culture, and healthcare and more. 🎙️ The guest: Anthony Muiruri A Kenya-born author, speaker, and MC based in Athens, Greece, where he shares his journey of adapting to life abroad through personal development and community building. He is also the creator of Be Good for Good and the host of Abroad Experience, where he explores what it means to belong, grow, and thrive across cultures. 🔗 Guest Links https://www.anthonymuiruri.com/https://www.instagram.com/anthonymuiruri/https://www.tiktok.com/@anthony_muiruri/https://www.youtube.com/c/AnthonyMuirurihttps://www.facebook.com/anthonysmuiruri/ What we discuss: 00:00 — Intro02:13 — Growing up in central Kenya03:27 — Athens is the first place he lands in Greece05:50 — Europe vs expectation; Athens polished and rough07:18 — Learning Greek and the “head nod” confusion08:25 — How personal development led to speaking and MC work10:30 — The push to write and publish his first book12:54 — The Kenyan community in Athens15:32 — Biggest cultural adjustment: saying sorry18:03 — How he made friends and built community19:17 — Learning Greek through everyday life and cartoons21:21 — Cost of living in Kenya vs Greece23:30 — Finding housing with help from the community25:57 — Work culture and standard salaries27:20 — Getting around Athens28:07 — Healthcare in Greece30:17 — Bureaucracy and paperwork32:13 — Best and worst part of Greece: the weather34:28 — Advice for people moving to Greece36:26 — How to contact Anthony39:39 — Closing remarks and season finale Check and subscribe to the The Almost Local Letter 🗞️: https://almostlocal.riverside.com/newsletter
#70 - From City to Farm Life: Benefits of a Community Focused on Food Sovereignty with Thomas Patton
2026/08/17
In this episode, Thomas Patton shares his journey from industrial farming to regenerative land management in Panama, explaining how his approach aims to combine ecological sustainability with community living. Listen to discover how land, food security, and innovative community models like Lega Vera are transforming lifestyles and farming practices. Key topics Thomas Patton’s background: Growing up in Panama with US roots, and his transition from bodybuilding to regenerative farmingThe principles of regenerative land management: Moving away from industrial farming, focusing on soil health and ecosystem balanceThe evolution from traditional farming to a multi-species, soil-fed farm systemThe concept of farm-to-table and how farming integrates with community storytellingThe benefits and challenges of regenerative farming: Costs, learning curve, and the importance of holistic collaborationLifestyle trade-offs: The balance between city convenience and rural authenticity, and the hybrid living model in PanamaThe cultural and social aspects of life in Panama: Diversity, language, social life, and work cultureThe vision for Lega Vera: Supporting sustainable farmers, reducing reliance on external inputs, and building resilient communities 🎙️ The guest: Thomas Patton A regenerative land manager and farmer in Panama who has transformed his family’s agricultural operation into a holistic, multi-species system focused on soil health, food security, and sustainability. He blends practical business thinking with a deep respect for nature, moving away from industrial farming toward a more resilient model that includes farm-to-table food, agrotourism, and the development of Lega Vera, a farm village designed to support like-minded people who want a closer relationship with land and food. 🔗 Guest Links https://www.instagram.com/thomaspatton_/https://www.instagram.com/legaverafarmvillage/https://www.instagram.com/coquirasoil/https://legavera.com/ What we discuss: 00:00 — Episode introduction2:15 — Introducing Thomas Patton “I am a regenerative land manager”6:05 — Coming back to the farm after university7:30 — Discovering the farm was doing everything wrong9:18 — Guests reacting to agrotourism and farm life12:45 — What “regenerative operation” actually means15:08 — Why nature and economics are not separate16:40 — Why Lega Vera was created18:37 — Turning the farm into a restaurant and story21:30 — What Lega Vera is as a private farm village26:50 — The learning curve and trade-offs of regeneration49:57 — How to contact Lega Vera and what it stands for Check and subscribe to the The Almost Local Letter 🗞️: https://almostlocal.riverside.com/newsletter
#69 - The Hidden Challenges of Moving Abroad: Honeymoon Phase Always Ends with Simo D
2026/08/10
In this episode, Simo D shares his journey from a construction contractor in Canada to a digital nomad living in Belize. He offers a candid look at the realities of relocating, building new careers, and adapting to a new culture while providing practical frameworks for managing transitions abroad. Key topics: The motivations behind moving from Canada to Belize and the financial benefits of Belize's lower cost of livingThe cultural nuances of Belize, highlighting high vs. low context communication styles and the importance of cultural adaptationThe trade-offs of living a tourist-focused lifestyle versus integrating more deeply into local lifeThe significance of understanding property laws in Belize, especially concerning beachfront lands and foreign investmentThe impact of local infrastructure, power outages, and climate on daily lifePersonal insights on managing the honeymoon phase and the reality of long-term expatriate life in Belize 🎙️ Guest: Simo D A former contractor with 20 years of construction experience in Canada who relocated to Belize with his family in 2022. He’s now an AI systems designer and writer, sharing practical, unfiltered insights about expat life, career pivots, and the tradeoffs of building a new life abroad. 🔗 Guest Links https://www.instagram.com/foreign.radio/https://simod.substack.com/https://bottbott.substack.com/https://www.youtube.com/@ForeignRadio/https://www.linkedin.com/in/simon-d-ai-systems-director-building-for-changehttps://movesmart.world/ What we discuss: 00:00 - Introduction: Who is Simo D and what drives his move to Belize02:21 - The decision to relocate: family, lifestyle, and early research02:49 - How the pandemic and medical emergencies shaped their timing03:14 - Adjusting to life in Belize: property, cost of living, and local culture03:26 - Cultural differences: high vs. low context communication05:30 - Navigating land ownership, land tensions, and community dynamics07:58 - The honeymoon phase versus real life: challenges of establishing roots09:40 - Transitioning careers: from construction to AI and content creation10:55 - Tools for discovering remote work opportunities and navigating legal requirements17:42 - Realities of tourism dependence and lifestyle trade-offs20:14 - Strategies for finding a home: using specialized tools and local knowledge40:54 - The best and worst parts of Belize: climate, cost, and lifestyle differences44:43 - Final thoughts: embracing change, managing expectations, and thriving abroad Check and subscribe to the The Almost Local Letter 🗞️: https://almostlocal.riverside.com/newsletter
#68 - 15 Years in Mexico: Why This American Won't Leave with Greg Gunter
2026/08/03
Discover what makes San Miguel de Allende one of the world’s most beloved expat destinations through Greg Gunther’s firsthand experience. From cultural adaptation to real estate insights, this episode charts a path for those considering a long-term move or investment in this vibrant Mexican town. In this episode: Greg’s journey from a US architect and developer to a full-time expat in MexicoHow San Miguel de Allende’s rich history preserves its architectural beauty and charmThe exponential growth of the expat community and the town’s transformation over 17 yearsPractical tips on integrating into local life, including language learning and social scenesThe affordability and cost of living advantages compared to the US and EuropeA deep dive into real estate opportunities, neighborhood gentrification, and finding the perfect homeNavigating healthcare in San Miguel de Allende: facilities, access, and qualityCultural nuances like the ‘mañana’ attitude and living the local lifestyleThe importance of research and choosing the right neighborhood for comfort and safetyHow digital tools and social networks simplify moving and settling in 🎙️ Guest: Greg Gunter An American architect-turned-real-estate broker who has lived in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, for more than 15 years. He helps other foreigners and prospective buyers understand the city, its neighbourhoods, and what it takes to settle into life there successfully. 🔗 Guest Links Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dreamprohomes/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SanMiguelDreamProHomes Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dreamprohomes/ Website: https://dreamprohomesluxury.com/ Email: [email protected] Phone: +1 877-878-4141 Check and subscribe to the The Almost Local Letter 🗞️: https://almostlocal.riverside.com/newsletter Follow us on social media 📲: https://www.youtube.com/@almostlocalstorieshttps://www.instagram.com/almostlocalstorieshttps://www.tiktok.com/@almostlocalstorieshttps://www.facebook.com/almostlocalstories 🌎 ✈️ Join Almost Local now and connect with a global community of like-minded people living abroad!
#67 - Why Parenting Abroad Changes Everything with Anthi Patrikios
2026/07/27
In this episode, Anthi Patrikios shares her rich journey from childhood in Greece to living and working across multiple countries, ultimately pivoting to parent coaching and community building abroad in Uzbekistan. Her insights reveal how embracing mobility, cultural curiosity, and personal growth shape a fulfilling global life. Main Topics: The transformative power of freedom in early life and choicesNavigating cultural shocks and building social connections abroadThe evolution from international career to parent coaching and personal well-being 🎙️ Guest: Anthi Patrikios A parent coach and educator who has spent nearly three decades living abroad, building a life across Greece, the UK, the Philippines, Kenya, and Uzbekistan. Her perspective is shaped by international moves, deep empathy for families, and a strong belief in freedom, adaptability, and supporting children through change. 🔗 Guest Links Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anthipatrikios/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthi-patrikios/ Website: https://www.anthipatrikios.com/ Check the episodes in video in Youtube 🎥: https://www.youtube.com/@almostlocalstories Follow us on social media 📲: https://www.instagram.com/almostlocalstories ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@almostlocalstories ⁠https://www.facebook.com/almostlocalstories 🌎✈️ Join our Almost Local Network now and connect with a global community of like-minded adventurers!
#66 - Relocation Reality: From Digital Nomad to Portugal Innovator with Scott Kirk
2026/07/20
This episode delves into the real insides of living, adapting, and thriving abroad. Scott Kirk shares his unconventional journey from a tech background to helping others with their international moves—highlighting the psychological and cultural aspects of settling in Portugal and beyond. In this episode: How moving abroad is about more than geography—it's about identity and safetyThe mindset shifts involved in becoming a digital nomad before the term existedThe importance of community and cultural integration when relocatingPractical insights on navigating Portugal's bureaucracy and cost of livingThe evolving definition of "home" through a life of constant changeHow sports, local customs, and language shape integrationThe strategic approach to choosing where and how to live based on lifestyle needsScott’s transformation from a tech entrepreneur to a relocation facilitatorKey tips for a smooth transition and avoiding common pitfalls 🎙️ Guest: Scott Kirk A relocation expert and Portugal integration guide, and a former digital nomad turned community-builder. 🔗 Guest Links Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/movingtoportugal2.0 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/74495967/ Website: https://www.visas.pt/ Check the episodes in video in Youtube 🎥: https://www.youtube.com/@almostlocalstories Follow us on social media 📲: https://www.instagram.com/almostlocalstories ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@almostlocalstories ⁠https://www.facebook.com/almostlocalstories 🌎✈️ Join our Almost Local Network now and connect with a global community of like-minded adventurers!
#65 - The Truth About Belonging When You Live Abroad with Willa Goodfellow
2026/07/13
This episode explores the transformative journey of Willa Goodfellow as she navigates life across Costa Rica and Ireland, revealing how culture, community, and identity intertwine in foreign lands. Her story offers valuable insights into adapting to new environments, building community, and embracing change with curiosity and humour. Key topics: Willa's background, from Colorado to Costa Rica to Ireland, and what drove her travelsHow living in diverse environments influences creativity and writingThe role of community, local customs, and the bar life in Costa Rica in shaping her experiencePractical insights on integrating into small towns and rural communities abroadThe impact of cultural and language differences on social life and forming local relationshipsManaging identity shifts, cultural adjustments, and the routines of living between two worldsThe significance of faith and religion in forming community and local engagementExperiences as a lesbian couple abroad: acceptance, challenges, and the evolving landscapePractical tips for newcomers: finding housing, participating in local life, and navigating bureaucracyReflections on the best and worst aspects of life in Costa Rica and IrelandWilla's co-authored books, blending humour, personal stories, and cultural insights 🎙️ Guest: Willa Goodfellow An Episcopal priest and author who has lived across Colorado, Costa Rica, and Ireland. She’s a curious storyteller who writes about community, identity, and the humour of living abroad. 🔗 Guest Links Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/willagoodfellow/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WillaGoodfellowAuthor Substack: https://willagoodfellow.substack.com/ Website: https://willagoodfellow.com/ Check the episodes in video in Youtube 🎥: https://www.youtube.com/@almostlocalstories Follow us on social media 📲: https://www.instagram.com/almostlocalstories ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@almostlocalstories ⁠https://www.facebook.com/almostlocalstories 🌎✈️ Join our Almost Local Network now and connect with a global community of like-minded adventurers!
#64 - The Unexpected Emotional Crash of Moving Back Home with Annegret Bertsch
2026/07/06
In this episode, we explore the emotional and practical realities of living abroad and returning home. Annegret Bertsch, a coach specializing in expats and repatriation, shares her insights on navigating identity shifts, cultural differences, and the unexpected challenges of reintegration. Key topics: - The emotional side of returning home after years abroad, including grief and identity shifts - How living in different countries like the US, China, and Germany shapes personal and cultural identity - The importance of emotional support and coaching in managing expatriation and repatriation challenges - Strategies for coping with reverse culture shock and maintaining a sense of belonging - Lessons learned from cultural differences, such as humility and positivity, and what we can import from other societies - The role of intentional community-building and self-awareness in successful international transitions 🎙️ Guest: Annegret Bertsch A coach specializing in supporting expats and those navigating repatriation, drawing from her personal experiences of living in multiple countries like the US, China, and Germany. Her journey highlights the emotional and cultural challenges of international transitions, emphasizing the importance of coaching in finding purpose and adapting to new environments. 🔗 Guest Links Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coaching_because/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annegret-bertsch/ Podcast: https://www.open.spotify.com/episode/1XymUwA8EZodRRPJ3NkB4r?si=FHiUl_XKRRCDGfjjJi9hEQ Website: https://www.coaching-because.com Check the episodes in video in Youtube 🎥: https://www.youtube.com/@almostlocalstories Follow us on social media 📲: https://www.instagram.com/almostlocalstories ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@almostlocalstories ⁠https://www.facebook.com/almostlocalstories 🌎✈️ Join our Almost Local Network now and connect with a global community of like-minded adventurers!
#63 - Is Leaving Home Worth It? The Real Cost of Living Abroad with Lisa La Valle
2026/06/29
This episode offers a deep dive into the unseen forces shaping expatriates' experiences, with Lisa La Valle sharing her journey across countries, cultures, and careers. Discover how cultural awareness influences not just adaptation but personal growth, and learn practical strategies to thrive abroad. Key Topics: The invisible forces of culture and their influence on behaviorThe evolution of Lisa’s expatriate identity over timeHow understanding your own culture is crucial for successful adaptationThe role of self-reflection in navigating cultural differencesPractical tools: the 101 Culture Hacks book and how it simplifies cultural intelligenceThe impact of language as both a practical tool and emotional doorwayCost of living as a motivation for relocating and lifestyle choicesBalancing cultural traits of origin with new cultural influencesThe importance of kindness and humility in cross-cultural encountersHow to develop social anchors and avoid expatriate isolationThe transformation from eager newcomer to confident residentInsights into the emotional landscape of expatriates and common challengesThe significance of continuous learning and curiosity in midlife abroad 🎙️ Guest: Lisa La Valle A cultural anthropologist and cross-cultural trainer who has lived and worked across various countries, sharing her insights on cultural adaptation and identity. She is also the author of "101 Culture Hacks," a guide aimed at helping expatriates navigate cultural differences effectively. 🔗 Guest Links Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/expatwhisperer Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/expatwhisperer TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@globalistagal Book: https://a.co/d/0iN2bvDZ Check the episodes in video in Youtube 🎥: https://www.youtube.com/@almostlocalstories Follow us on social media 📲: https://www.instagram.com/almostlocalstories ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@almostlocalstories ⁠https://www.facebook.com/almostlocalstories 🌎✈️ Join our Almost Local Network now and connect with a global community of like-minded adventurers!
#62 - The Honest Reality of Being Location Independent with Bobby Casey
2026/06/22
In this episode, Bobby Casey shares his journey of living in multiple countries, building online businesses, and managing a remote team — all while traveling the world. His experience offers valuable lessons for entrepreneurs and digital nomads aiming to incorporate location independence into their lives. Key topics: Bobby’s early influences and shift from a traditional upbringing to a travel-oriented lifestyleHow travel and cultural adaptation shaped his entrepreneurial mindsetThe logistics and mindset behind managing multiple companies remotelyThe importance of cultivating a culture of remote work within a teamInsights into international tax residency, compliance, and how to optimize for location independence 🎙️ Guest: Bobby Casey A seasoned entrepreneur and digital nomad who thrives on building businesses while exploring the world, offering unique insights into location-independent living and remote work management. 🔗 Guest Links All links: https://linktr.ee/taxjesus Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/BusinessAnywhere/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/businessanywhereio Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessanywhere.io Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BusinessAnywhereLLC YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@businessanywhere Websites: https://businessanywhere.io/ and https://globalwealthprotection.com/ Check the episodes in video in Youtube 🎥: https://www.youtube.com/@almostlocalstories Follow us on social media 📲: https://www.instagram.com/almostlocalstories ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@almostlocalstories ⁠https://www.facebook.com/almostlocalstories 🌎✈️ Join our Almost Local Network now and connect with a global community of like-minded adventurers!
#61 - Balkans Life: The EU Move that Transformed My Identity and Perspective with Chanoa Inez
2026/06/15
In this episode, we explore the inspiring story of Chanoa Inez, a fearless American who transitioned from New York to the Balkans, lived in Montenegro, and built a life rich with cultural exploration and personal growth. She shares the emotional journey behind her relocations, the challenges of language learning, and her work bridging personal development with professional branding. If you're curious about embracing change or moving abroad, this conversation offers valuable insights and practical tips. Main insights covered: How a chance visit in Montenegro turned into a full-time residence after a profound in-person connection and cultural immersion.The emotional impact of grief and loss, and how living abroad can aid in healing and reconnecting with oneself.Navigating the logistics and cultural differences of moving to Serbia and Montenegro as a foreigner, including language learning and social integration.The unique lifestyle contrasts between Serbia’s vibrant city life and Montenegro’s slow-paced seaside living.The importance of self-love, mental health, and spiritual practices in rebuilding confidence after personal tragedies. 🎙️ Guest: Chanoa Inez A transformative storyteller and cultural explorer who empowers others through her journey of personal growth and resilience across diverse global landscapes. 🔗 Guest Links Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chanoainez/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chanoa/ Website: https://www.chanoainez.com/ Check the episodes in video in Youtube 🎥: https://www.youtube.com/@almostlocalstories Follow us on social media 📲: https://www.instagram.com/almostlocalstories ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@almostlocalstories ⁠https://www.facebook.com/almostlocalstories 🌎✈️ Join our Almost Local Network now and connect with a global community of like-minded adventurers!

Podcast reviews

Read Almost Local: Living Abroad Stories podcast reviews


4.6 out of 5
8 reviews
★★★★★
Chanoa Inez 2026/04/09
One of a kind
Marc has designed an interesting and actionable format along with some fun surprises. This is a unique show—thank you, Marc!
★★★★★
mikeyopp 2025/03/12
A wonderful, uniting show!
This show is unique, not only because the host is creative and earnest, but also in it's depth of purpose. Marc does a great job and he's helping to u...
★★★★☆
vcjcg 2024/07/10
Perfect Casual Podcast
The episode I listened to was recorded outside and with birds and wind, it really felt like I was sitting there with y’all. I know not everyone would ...
★★★★☆
MavvyD 2024/07/09
Solid for anyone interested in the expat life
Loved to get an inside perspective on some of the tips and tricks people who are expats do. Lots of real authentic Conversations. Thank you!
★★★★★
Big Jags 2024/07/08
Good idea
A podcast for those who want to know more about the interesting experience of living in a foreign country. As one who is exploring this option, I appr...
★★★★☆
kristamischell 2024/07/06
Handy for expats
This podcast is a good listen for anyone living abroad. The show offers insightful interviews, expert advice, and practical tips for living in a new c...
★★★★★
3 buoys 2024/07/04
Expats unite!
As a semi new expat (US living in Australia), I love finding this show! Thank you 🙏🏽
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