In this episode of Passport To Wealth™, Arielle Tucker, EA, CFP, is joined by Alex McGowin, CPA, an international tax expert with deep experience advising US expats and Americans investing abroad. Together, they break down the most common tax traps US citizens face when purchasing property in countries like Costa Rica, Panama, and across Latin America.

Alex explains why foreign LLCs rarely work the way Americans expect, how missed elections can turn capital gains into ordinary income, and why many expats unknowingly create controlled foreign corporations that lead to compliance headaches and unnecessary taxes. They also discuss rental properties, Airbnb income, personal use rules, and what happens when investors wait too long to get proper advice.

If you are considering buying property abroad or already own foreign real estate, this episode will help you understand the hidden risks, planning opportunities, and why getting advice on the front end can protect your long term wealth.

1. Specialization in international tax is crucial for providing value.
2. Many clients are unaware of the complexities of foreign tax laws.
3. Building a network of trusted professionals is essential.
4. Real estate investments in Latin America come with unique challenges.
5. Understanding local laws is key to successful property ownership.
6. Tax compliance is a continuous process, not just a yearly task.
7. Engaging with clients early can prevent costly mistakes.
8. The US tax system often conflicts with foreign tax systems.
9. Proper structuring of foreign investments can save taxes.
10. Visiting potential investment locations is important before purchasing.

Mentioned in this episode:

www.passporttowealth.com

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In this episode of Passport To Wealth™, Arielle Tucker, CFP®, EA is joined by Melissa Groves, CPA of Blue Haven Tax to break down what the One Big Beautiful Bill Act actually means for Americans living abroad.

Together, they unpack the reality behind the headlines and address a common misconception among US expats that this legislation would eliminate the requirement to file US tax returns while living overseas. Spoiler alert: it does not.

The conversation dives into what has changed, what has not, and how updated income thresholds and filing rules may impact US citizens abroad. Arielle and Melissa also discuss why thoughtful planning and professional guidance remain essential when navigating US tax obligations as an expat.

This episode offers clarity, context, and practical insight for Americans abroad who want to stay compliant while making informed financial decisions. It is a must listen for anyone looking to better understand how US tax policy continues to affect life beyond US borders.

Key Takeaways:

1. Melissa Groves has over 17 years of experience in cross-border finance.
2. The One Big Beautiful Bill aims to simplify tax codes but has minimal impact on expats.
3. US citizens must file taxes regardless of where they earn their income.
4. Filing thresholds have increased slightly for the 2025 tax year.
5. Married filing jointly can be beneficial for US expats with non-US spouses.
6. Self-employed individuals have low filing thresholds that can lead to compliance issues.
7. Understanding filing statuses is crucial for tax planning.
8. Expats should be aware of their tax obligations in both the US and their resident country.
9. Researching tax implications is essential before moving abroad.
10. Access to professional advice can significantly ease the transition for expats.

Mentioned in this episode:

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What does it really take to build a life abroad when you are not just moving for work, but raising a family at the same time?

In this episode of Passport To Wealth™, Arielle Tucker CFP®,EA sits down with Monica Virga Alborno, an expert in supporting Americans working abroad, to unpack the realities of expat family life. Together, they explore how career decisions, immigration status, and long-term planning change when children are part of the picture.

Monica shares practical insights on navigating international moves with a family, balancing professional opportunities with stability, and understanding how visas, work authorization, and residency rules impact both parents and children. The conversation highlights the often-overlooked emotional and logistical challenges expat families face, from schooling decisions to maintaining continuity while living internationally.

This episode is essential listening for Americans working abroad, globally mobile professionals, and families considering an international move who want clarity, realistic expectations, and a stronger foundation for long-term success overseas.

Takeaways:

1. Monica is a former Fortune 500 executive who now focuses on conscious family living.
2. She has lived in multiple countries and values experiential learning.
3. Norway offers a unique lifestyle that prioritizes work-life balance.
4. Cultural shocks include the efficiency of public transport and strict work hours.
5. Raising children in Norway provides access to excellent healthcare and education.
6. The Norwegian parental leave policy is generous and supportive for families.
7. Monica's children attend a nature-based preschool that emphasizes outdoor learning.
8. Living in Norway has allowed Monica to create a stable home for her family.
9. Understanding what you can contribute to a new country is crucial for expats.
10. Exploring a country like a local can provide valuable insights before moving.

Mentioned in this episode:

www.passporttowealth.com

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In this episode of Passport To Wealth™, Arielle Tucker CFP®, EA sits down with international bestselling author and speaker Jordan Tarver to explore what it truly means to choose a nomadic life abroad as an American. After surviving a life changing car accident, Jordan made a conscious decision to stop living on autopilot and begin designing a life rooted in intention, awareness, and personal alignment. That decision ultimately led him to leave the US and live nomadically across Europe.

Jordan shares the mindset shifts that helped him embrace uncertainty, redefine success, and navigate the emotional realities of building a life outside the United States. The conversation explores the internal work required to make bold life changes, including cultivating stillness, journaling, and developing clarity around what is trying to emerge in your life.

The episode also addresses the practical realities Americans face when living abroad, including visa limitations, citizenship through ancestry, and the logistical considerations of long term life in Europe. This conversation offers both inspiration and grounded guidance for Americans considering a move abroad or rethinking what a meaningful life can look like beyond traditional expectations.

Takeaways:

1. In this episode, we explored the transformative journey of Jordan Tarver, who embraced a nomadic lifestyle throughout Europe after a life-altering experience.
2. Listeners will benefit from understanding the importance of awareness in initiating meaningful life changes and pursuing one's dreams.
3. We discussed practical strategies for cultivating stillness and reflection, including journaling and meditation, as essential tools for personal growth.
4. Jordan emphasized the significance of dual citizenship and the various visa options available for Americans wishing to live abroad long-term.
5. The conversation highlighted the challenges and opportunities of building community while living a nomadic lifestyle in different countries.
6. We examined the contrasting work-life balance between the United States and Europe, underlining the value of prioritizing personal well-being over incessant hustle.

Mentioned in this episode:

www.passporttowealth.com

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Season 3 of Passport To Wealth™ marks an exciting next chapter focused on the real financial, tax, and immigration challenges Americans face when living abroad. Hosted by Arielle Tucker CFP®, EA, this season goes beyond surface level advice to deliver practical guidance on US expat taxes, cross border financial planning, visas, and relocation strategy.

Listeners will hear from trusted experts and real US expats navigating life overseas, alongside the launch of Passport To Wealth™’s growing network of vetted fiduciary advisors. The goal is simple and powerful: to give Americans abroad the clarity, tools, and support they need to confidently build a life beyond US borders.

Mentioned in this episode:

www.passporttowealth.com

Passport to Wealth is a proud member of the SwissCast Network

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Moving abroad is exciting, but navigating US taxes as an expat can be overwhelming, confusing, and full of expensive pitfalls. In this episode, we sit down with Emily Haines, CPA, the CEO & Founder of Xpatax Solutions, and Arielle Tucker, CFP®, EA, to break down the biggest mistakes Americans make when living and working overseas and how to avoid them.

Whether you're already an expat or preparing to move abroad, this episode gives you the clarity you need on topics like foreign tax credits (Form 1116), PFICs, foreign pensions, local retirement accounts, the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE), and year-end tax planning for US citizens abroad.

Emily and Arielle explain why the US and foreign tax systems often don’t align, how well-meaning expats unintentionally create long-term tax problems, and what you should review each year to stay compliant and optimize your global financial strategy.

Mentioned in this episode:

www.passporttowealth.com

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What does it take to truly thrive abroad, not just survive?In this eye-opening episode, host Arielle Tucker CFP®, EA sits down with intercultural psychologist and expat coach Deborah Dahab to explore the deeper, often overlooked side of international relocation.

Together, they unpack why moving abroad isn’t a magic fix and how Americans can better prepare emotionally and psychologically for the journey. Deborah shares personal stories from her own expat life, practical strategies for building resilience, and the importance of defining your own version of success. From understanding cultural shock to building a support system and aligning your goals with your move, this conversation is packed with valuable insights for anyone dreaming of a life overseas.

Whether you’re planning your first move abroad or reevaluating life as a long-time expat, this episode will help you shift your mindset, clarify your purpose, and thrive wherever you land.

Mentioned in this episode:

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In this episode of Passport to Wealth™, host Arielle Tucker, CFP®, EA, sits down with Christopher J. Hughey, entrepreneur and founder of Americans Moving to Spain, to uncover what US citizens really need to know before taking the leap abroad. From navigating Spain’s digital nomad and non-lucrative visas to understanding how culture, bureaucracy, and lifestyle differ from the US, this episode pulls back the curtain on what life in Spain truly looks like for Americans.

Christopher shares what inspired him to create a platform helping thousands of US expats move abroad, the most common mistakes Americans make when relocating to Spain, and how to prepare financially, emotionally, and logistically for your move. Whether you’re exploring retirement abroad, remote work in Spain, or simply dreaming of Mediterranean life, this conversation is packed with actionable insight, practical visa guidance, and hard-earned wisdom for anyone ready to start a new chapter overseas.

For a trusted path to expert cross-border guidance don't forget to go to passporttowealth.com .

Mentioned in this episode:

www.passporttowealth.com

Passport to Wealth is a proud member of the SwissCast Network

Discover more podcasts for English-speaking Switzerland

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Mentioned in this episode:

Passport to Wealth is a proud member of the SwissCast Network

Discover more podcasts for English-speaking Switzerland

SwissCast Network

www.passporttowealth.com

In this episode of

For a trusted path to expert cross-border guidance don't forget to go to passporttowealth.com .

Today, she shares her honest insights about what it’s really like to move abroad as an American: from navigating visas and language barriers to finding belonging in a new culture. Together, Arielle and Ambika discuss the realities of expat life, the challenges of starting over, and the rewards of embracing uncertainty.

Whether you’re considering your own move overseas or simply curious about life in Italy, this episode offers both inspiration and practical wisdom for your global journey.

Mentioned in this episode:

www.passporttowealth.com

Passport to Wealth is a proud member of the SwissCast Network

Discover more podcasts for English-speaking Switzerland

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