👱🏽‍♂️👱🏾‍♂️In this episode of the Hold to Talk podcast, we welcome our husbands, Ollie and Mike, to discuss their experiences living abroad, cultural shocks, and the unique challenges faced by veterans. The conversation flows through various themes, including sports culture in the US, funny misunderstandings, and the impact of military life on personal growth and family dynamics. The episode culminates in reflections on future aspirations and the importance of resilience in parenting.Takeaways

• The sports culture in the US fosters a sense of community.
• Living abroad offers unique experiences that shape personal preferences.
• Cultural misunderstandings can lead to humorous situations.
• Veterans face significant challenges when readjusting to civilian life.
• Loss in combat profoundly impacts soldiers and their families.
• Therapy, especially EMDR, can be transformative for veterans dealing with PTSD.
• Family dynamics evolve with international living and parenting.
• Future aspirations can change based on life experiences and personal growth.
• The importance of resilience in children is emphasised by parents.
• Humour and fun are essential in navigating relationships and family life.

🤑 NEW EPISODES OUT EVERY TUESDAY - In this episode of the Hold To Talk podcast, we talk honestly about the financial realities of moving abroad.

We share personal experiences of relocating to the United States and Portugal, discussing the unexpected costs and challenges they faced.

From selling furniture and dealing with rental markets to the high costs of moving pets and the nuances of credit ratings, we cover it all.

Listen in to hear their insights on managing expenses, the impact of cost of living on lifestyle choices, and the economic implications for locals in their new homes.

Whether you're considering a move or just curious about the logistics, this episode offers valuable perspectives and practical advice.

In this episode of the Hold to Talk podcast, we go into how we feel about of living as immigrants in a new country. We explore the nuances of cultural adaptation, the feeling of belonging, and the challenges of maintaining our own identity while embracing new customs. Through personal anecdotes and candid discussions, we reveal the emotional journey of integrating into a new society and the ongoing quest for a sense of home. Join us as we navigate the delicate balance between holding onto their roots and embracing a new cultural identity.

💕 In this Episode we get real about how our relationships have shifted since moving abroad.

From intimacy and gift-giving to figuring out who settled in first (and who’s still finding their groove), we talk about the ups, downs, and everything in between. It’s an honest convo about love, growth, and what it’s really like building a life together in a new place.

In this episode of the Hold To Talk podcast, we try something different, interviewing our family members, we welcome our niece Libby to introduce the episode.

We then welcome our older sister and mum onto the podcast, to discuss how they feel about being the ones we left behind.

The conversation flows from introductions to deeper discussions about maintaining relationships across distances, with lighthearted moments sprinkled throughout.

In this heartfelt episode of Hold to Talk, we open up about the often unspoken side of expat life—homesickness.

From the heartache of missing aging parents to the loss of a beloved family pet, we share honest stories about love, loss, and the bittersweet goodbyes that come with living far from home.

The conversation dives into cultural differences, the role of technology in staying connected, and how distance reshapes relationships over time.

With warmth and candor, we reflect on what it means to embrace change, honour family ties, and find strength in new chapters abroad.

Whether you’re an expat, a traveler, or simply someone who’s ever missed home, this episode will resonate.

#expats #homesickness #movingabroad #movingtoportugal

🌍 In this mini episode, we answer the big questions many expats and traveler's wrestle with: Would you move abroad again? And just as importantly, would you ever move back home?

We reflect on the highs, lows, and lessons learned from living overseas, and explore what really shapes the decision to stay, return, or start fresh in a new country.

In this episode of the Hold to Talk podcast, we delve into the complexities of making friends as adults, especially after relocating to a new country.

We discuss the emotional challenges, the importance of deep connections, and how technology, like friendship apps, can aid in finding new friends.

The conversation highlights personal experiences, cultural differences, and the evolving nature of friendships over time.

Our Takeaways

• Making friends as an adult can be challenging, especially after moving to a new country.
• School and work environments provide natural opportunities for socialising that are often missing in adulthood.
• Maintaining long-distance friendships requires effort and prioritisation.
• Friendship dynamics change when you relocate, leading to a reevaluation of existing relationships.
• Using technology, such as friendship apps, can help in finding new connections.
• It's important to seek deep, meaningful friendships rather than superficial acquaintances.
• Cultural differences can impact how friendships are formed and maintained.
• Personal experiences of anxiety and vulnerability play a significant role in making new friends.
• Understanding one's own social needs is crucial in navigating friendships.
• Friendships can evolve, and it's okay to let go of connections that no longer serve you.

#adultfriendships #makingfriends #socialconnections #movingabroad #technologyinfriendships #emotionalconnections #friendshipchallenges #culturaldifferences #personalgrowth #socialanxiety

You asked. We listened. Introducing our brand-new mini-series—where we dive into real questions from YOU, the Hold to Talk family.

Our pilot? A standout from Stacy, who asked whether our initial impressions of life abroad were actually true.

Ready for our honest take on preconceptions versus reality?

Drop your burning questions in the comments—seriously, we can’t wait to answer them in upcoming episodes.

Catch the full mini-episode now—follow, rate, and share to help us keep this going. And don’t forget: the next full episode drops Tuesday 19th!

#BritsAbroad #YouAskedWeAnswer #ExpatLife #MoveMyths #HoldToTalk

NEW EPISODE OUT EVERY TUESDAY

In this episode, we dive into the quirks and surprises of life in the USA and Portugal.

From navigating driving rules and tipping customs to deciphering bureaucracy and social habits, we share our firsthand experiences.

Plus, in our "Voice Notes from the Week" segment, we recount the moments that truly made us say, start this Podcast.

Whether you're an expat, a dreamer, or just curious about life abroad, join us for a candid and humorous look at the highs and lows of cultural adaptation.

Takeaways

• Culture shock is a real experience for expats.
• The 4th of July is a significant celebration in the US.
• Patriotism in the US is much more visible than in the UK.
• Halloween and Thanksgiving are celebrated on a larger scale in the US.
• The mindset in the US tends to be more optimistic than in the UK.
• Portugal's culture promotes a slower pace of life.
• Service and tipping culture in the US is unique and often overwhelming.
• Bureaucracy can be challenging for expats in Portugal.
• Healthcare experiences can vary significantly between countries.
• Cultural differences can lead to surprising realizations and adaptations. Driving regulations vary significantly between countries.
• Healthcare experiences can differ greatly based on location and insurance plans.
• Cultural norms around childcare can be vastly different.
• School safety drills are a reality in the US that many find concerning.
• Embracing cultural differences can lead to a richer experience abroad.
• Bureaucratic processes can be frustrating for expatriates.
• Healthcare in the US can be exceptional if one has a good plan.
• Cultural adaptation requires openness and willingness to learn.
• The impact of gun culture on schools is a significant concern for parents.