ITP - 159 Denise shares her unconventional journey into education, from a background in fashion to building a teaching career across Taiwan, Korea, international schools, and eventually California. She reflects on earning her master’s degree, adapting to different school systems, navigating hiring practices, and experiencing the contrast between public and international education. Along the way, she discusses classroom diversity, cultural differences, and what it means to commit long-term to a school and community abroad.
The conversation also explores the major career and lifestyle changes brought on by COVID-19, the realities of relocating to California, and the challenges surrounding work visas and immigration. Denise shares memorable travel and customs stories, practical advice for moving overseas, and thoughts on her future career goals. Her experiences highlight the flexibility, resilience, and openness required to build a life across countries and embrace the many different ways people live and work around the world.
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The International Teacher Podcast is a bi-weekly discussion with experts in international education. New Teachers, burned out local teachers, local School Leaders, International school Leadership, current Overseas Teachers, and everyone interested in international schools can benefit from hearing stories and advice about living and teaching overseas.
Additional Gems Related to Our Show:
Greg’s Favorite Video From Living Overseas - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UQWKBwzF-hw
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JPMint Consulting Website - https://www.jpmintconsulting.com/
Hannah’s Personal IG - https://www.instagram.com/thatexpatfamily?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==
Greg’s Personal YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLs1B3Wc0wm6DR_99OS5SyzvuzENc-bBdO
Books (on Amazon) By Gregory Lemoine:
Stay for the Show (2026) | Greg’s first Childrens Picture Book
International Teacher Guide: Finding the "Right Fit" 2nd Edition (2025) | by Gregory Lemoine M.Ed.
"International Teaching: The Best-kept Secret in Education" | by Gregory Lemoine M.Ed.
Apps by Greg:
https://apps.apple.com/app/6755244840 1. Who’s That? Name & Face Trainer Nov 21, 2025
https://apps.apple.com/app/6756509803 2. Facetag | Memory Trainer Dec 16, 2025
Chapters:
(00:00) Introduction and Podcast Dynamics
(03:01) Denise's Journey into Education
(06:07) Transitioning from Fashion to Teaching
(09:08) Teaching Experience in Taiwan
(11:51) Pursuing a Master's Degree in Education
(15:08) Teaching in Korea and Cultural Insights
(17:59) International School Experiences and Hiring Practices
(23:07) Contrasting Teaching Experiences: Public vs. International Schools
(26:06) Diversity in the Classroom: A Global Perspective
(32:22) The Long-Term Commitment: Staying in One School
(35:02) Navigating Career Changes: The Impact of COVID-19
(40:22) Cultural Adjustments: Moving to California
(52:40) International Education: Differences in Teaching Approaches
(54:25) Cultural Experiences in California
(56:31) Navigating Work Visas and Immigration Challenges
(59:50) Future Aspirations and Career Goals
(01:02:54) Customs Stories and Travel Experiences
(01:08:02) Practical Essentials for Moving Abroad
(01:13:16) Embracing Diverse Lifestyles
