In this episode, I’ll take a deep dive into the #1 mistake people make when trying to move abroad: skipping the most important step before research and action—Decide. Whether you’re stuck in endless research or taking action without a clear plan, you’re probably running in circles. I’ll break down how to avoid those traps and finally create a move abroad plan that actually works.

What you’ll learn in the episode:

1. The 3 Common Mistakes People Make
   • Drowning in research
   • Taking action without a plan
   • Ignoring how the pieces fit together
2. Why DECIDE Is Step #1 in the DREAM Process
   • Lifestyle: What kind of life do you want abroad?
   • Job: Remote work, freelancing, or working on the ground?
   • Country/Visa: Which country aligns with your job and lifestyle goals?
   • Timeline: Setting a realistic deadline for when you want to move.
     Until you DECIDE these key elements, you’ll stay stuck in research mode or take actions that lead nowhere.

Ready to make 2025 the year you move abroad?
Join me in my Live Move Abroad Escape Plan Bootcamp starting January 25th. In just 4 days, we’ll create a concrete, personalized plan for your move abroad—no more spinning your wheels.
For just $37, you’ll get daily training, mindset coaching, and exclusive community support. VIP upgrades are available for more intensive coaching and personalized attention.

Let’s take the guesswork out of your move abroad and make 2025 the year you finally make it happen!

Want to Join the Next Bootcamp?
If you loved this episode and want to join the next Move Abroad Escape Plan Bootcamp, sign up now to get access to live panels, training, and more.

Already joined the Bootcamp?
Upgrade to VIP! https://www.escapeplanbootcamp.com/join-vip

Want to explore our Freedom Life Programs?
Send us a DM on IG or FB letting us know you want to explore our Freedom Life coaching programs. Or, send us an email at [email protected].  No matter when you’re ready to start, we’ll help you find the right fit.

→ Follow Move Abroad Coach on Instagram
→ Follow Move Abroad Coach on Facebook

Love this Episode? What to Listen to Next:

• #87 We're Moving! Here's Why We're Leaving Tbilisi and What Comes Next
• #76 Overwhelmed by Options? Here's How to Get Unstuck and Create Your Move Abroad Plan
• #58 Are You Stuck in the Research Rabbit Hole?
• #41 The Four Things You Need to Decide Before You Can Move Abroad
• #10 OH NO! My Perfect Move Abroad Plan Doesn't Work... Now What?

In this episode, I kick off 2025 with a practical guide on how to make your dream of moving abroad a reality this year. I’ll be breaking down the essential steps, from setting a clear deadline to identifying tasks and creating a timeline that spreads out the work over the next 12 months. Whether you’re unsure where to start or overwhelmed by the process, this approach will help you stay organized, avoid procrastination, and keep moving forward. Plus, I’ll update you on our upcoming move and give you an inside look at the upcoming Move Abroad Bootcamp if you’re ready to take the first step NOW!

What you’ll hear in the episode:

• Highlights from my recent New Year’s celebrations in Sighnaghi, Georgia, and how I’m transitioning back into work mode after the holiday season.
• How to join the Move Abroad Bootcamp
• Breaking Down the Move Abroad Process
• Step by Step Instructions on How to Create Your Personalized Move Abroad Plan
• Creating a Move Abroad Timeline

Let’s make 2025 the year you finally move abroad – you've got this!

Want to Join the Next Bootcamp?
If you loved this episode and want to join the next Move Abroad Escape Plan Bootcamp, sign up now to get access to live panels, training, and more.

Already joined the Bootcamp?
Upgrade to VIP! https://www.escapeplanbootcamp.com/join-vip

Want to explore our Freedom Life Programs?
Send us a DM on IG or FB letting us know you want to explore our Freedom Life coaching programs. Or, send us an email at [email protected].  No matter when you’re ready to start, we’ll help you find the right fit.

→ Follow Move Abroad Coach on Instagram
→ Follow Move Abroad Coach on Facebook

Love this Episode? What to Listen to Next:

• #87 We're Moving! Here's Why We're Leaving Tbilisi and What Comes Next
• #32 No You DON’T Have to Wait 2+ Years to Move Abroad
• #67 Maintaining Momentum: How to Stay Accountable and Focused on Your Move Abroad
• #16 Combating the Dreaded Move Abroad OVERWHELM
• #11 I'm Too Busy to Work on Moving Abroad!

Happy New Year's Eve!

As we head into 2025, I'm sharing a special behind-the-scenes look at my personal, business, and self-development journey from 2024. Last year, I did a similar episode and it was so well-received, I decided to make it a tradition! In today’s episode, I’m giving you an honest look at what I've been working on, the challenges I’ve faced, and the mindset shifts that have shaped my year. I review the goals I set for 2024, how I did, and what I learned along the way.  I’ll also share my big plans for the upcoming year–what I’m challenging myself to do in business and my personal life, as well as how I’m setting up my business (and mindset) to thrive without burning out in 2025!

This isn’t just about what I’ve taught you, but about walking the walk. You hear me share a lot about moving abroad, mindset strategies, and entrepreneurship tips for YOU. Now, I’m pulling back the curtain and showing you how I’ve been applying those lessons to my own life and business.

Want to Join the Next Bootcamp?
If you loved this episode and want to join the next Move Abroad Escape Plan Bootcamp, sign up now to get access to live panels, training, and more.

Already joined the Bootcamp?
Upgrade to VIP! https://www.escapeplanbootcamp.com/join-vip

Want to explore our Freedom Life Programs?
Send us a DM on IG or FB letting us know you want to explore our Freedom Life coaching programs. Or, send us an email at [email protected].  No matter when you’re ready to start, we’ll help you find the right fit.

→ Follow Move Abroad Coach on Instagram
→ Follow Move Abroad Coach on Facebook

 Resources Mentioned:
→ Fair Play by Eve Rodsky https://amzn.to/3DBnZlO
→ Profit First by Mike Michalowicz https://amzn.to/4gvvV6r

Love this Episode? What to Listen to Next:

• #37 The Lessons I Learned in 2023 and What's Next For 2024!
• #45 Behind the Scenes: Inside the Creation of the Freedom Life Experience
• #80 Time to Take the Leap? How to Build Your Freedom Business with Coach Alexandra
• #17 Help! I’ve applied to 50 jobs and haven’t heard back from any of them with Move Abroad Coach Marta

Merry Christmas Everyone! 🎄

In this encore episode, I revisit the topic of celebrating holidays while living abroad--from practical tips on how to cope with missing home to embracing the festive spirit of your new surroundings. Plus, a little update on how I'm celebrating Christmas abroad this year!

What you'll learn in the episode:

• How to Make the Holidays Special, Even When You're Far from Home: Create a festive atmosphere at home, connect with loved ones via FaceTime or Zoom and join local celebrations.
• Coping with Homesickness: If you're feeling down or nostalgic, you’re not alone. I share some personal stories of past holiday seasons spent abroad—including my first Christmas in China (hint: it didn’t go as planned!). 
• Travel Tips: If you're a location-independent worker or can negotiate vacation time, consider planning a holiday trip to visit family or friends abroad. 
• Embracing Holidays from Different Cultures: Whether it's Christmas in Georgia or celebrating Spring Festival in China, each country offers unique ways to celebrate. Don't miss out on these special moments just because you're away from home.

Want to Join the Next Bootcamp?
If you loved this episode and want to join the next Move Abroad Escape Plan Bootcamp, sign up now to get access to live panels, training, and more.

Already joined the Bootcamp?
Upgrade to VIP! https://www.escapeplanbootcamp.com/join-vip

Want to explore our Freedom Life Programs?
Send us a DM on IG or FB letting us know you want to explore our Freedom Life coaching programs. Or, send us an email at [email protected].  No matter when you’re ready to start, we’ll help you find the right fit.

→ Follow Move Abroad Coach on Instagram
→ Follow Move Abroad Coach on Facebook

Love this Episode? What to Listen to Next:

• #83 How to Handle Culture Shock Like a Pro (+ Some Wild Stories From My 12 Years Abroad)
• #74 - No Fluency Required: How to Move Abroad Without Speaking the Language
• #54 - Choose Your Hard: Navigating the Discomfort You Know vs. the Discomfort You Don’t Know 
• #49 - How to Make Friends and Meet People Abroad

This week we're revisiting one of the most popular and essential topics for anyone preparing to move abroad: how to share your plans with friends and family, especially during the holidays. Tune in for tips on handling tough questions, overcoming objections, and navigating potential misunderstandings—without the holiday drama.

Whether you're new to the podcast or a longtime listener, this encore episode will help you approach these conversations with confidence.

What you’ll learn in the episode:

• Handling Holiday Stress & Conversations: What if your loved ones don’t support you? What if they don’t get it or ask questions you can't answer?
• Preparing for the Common Concerns: From safety fears to questions about money and career, there are a lot of concerns people will project onto you. I walk you through how to address them calmly, confidently, and without getting into heated arguments.
• Handling Unsupportive Friends & Family: If a friend or family member is unsupportive, how do you keep the peace without compromising your dreams? The key is to stay firm in your decision while understanding where their concerns come from.

Want to Join the Next Bootcamp?
If you loved this episode and want to join the next Move Abroad Escape Plan Bootcamp, sign up now to get access to live panels, training, and more.

Already joined the Bootcamp?
Upgrade to VIP! https://www.escapeplanbootcamp.com/join-vip

Want to explore our Freedom Life Programs?
Send us a DM on IG or FB letting us know you want to explore our Freedom Life coaching programs. Or, send us an email at [email protected].  No matter when you’re ready to start, we’ll help you find the right fit.

→ Follow Move Abroad Coach on Instagram
→ Follow Move Abroad Coach on Facebook

 Resources Mentioned:
→ Grab the Move Abroad Budget Calculator

Love this Episode? What to Listen to Next:

• #89 Budgeting For Your Move Abroad: How Much Do You Really Need?
• #28 Is Living Abroad Safe??!
• #15 No, you DON’T have to have a ton of money saved up to move abroad
• #23 How Do I Get Healthcare and Health Insurance Abroad?

This week, I’m sharing something special—a panel recording from my last Move Abroad Escape Plan Bootcamp featuring three incredible Freedom Life alumni who have successfully made their dream of moving abroad a reality. 

Meet the Panelists:

• Monica: A writing coach who moved her business to Amsterdam along with her husband and their two cats. (Fun Fact: My husband joined her writing coaching program) 
• Lisa: A retired digital nomad traveling the world as a pet sitter. Lisa shares her expertise on finances, downsizing, and navigating 30 countries in a year —plus, she’s even pet-sat for me in Georgia!
• Allison: After being let go from her job in the US, Allison made a bold move to Spain to job-hunt on the ground. She quickly landed a position in Germany, navigating the process with her large dog in tow.

These three women faced very different challenges—running a business, finding a full-time job abroad, retiring to travel the world—but each found their way. Their stories are full of real-life advice on moving pets, budgeting, visas, and how to embrace the unexpected.

Want to Join the Next Bootcamp?
If you loved this episode and want to join the next Move Abroad Escape Plan Bootcamp, sign up now to get access to live panels, training, and more.

Already joined the Bootcamp?
Upgrade to VIP! https://www.escapeplanbootcamp.com/join-vip

Want to explore our Freedom Life Programs?
Send us a DM on IG or FB letting us know you want to explore our Freedom Life coaching programs. Or, send us an email at [email protected].  No matter when you’re ready to start, we’ll help you find the right fit.

→ Follow Move Abroad Coach on Instagram
→ Follow Move Abroad Coach on Facebook

 Resources Mentioned:
→ Check out Monica's Writing Coaching!

Love this Episode? What to Listen to Next:

• #85 Beyond the US Election: How Global Politics Impact Your Life Abroad (this is the episode I mentioned in the intro where I dive deeper into what's happening in Georgia) 
• #44 Fresh off the plane! Moving to the Netherlands with Monica Hay 
• #39 How to travel the world for free as a pet sitter (or get free pet sitting for your pets abroad!) 
• #17 Help! I've applied to 50 jobs and haven't heard back from any of them 
• #25 How to move abroad with cats (or a small dog)

One of the biggest questions I hear is, “How much money do I need to save to move abroad?” Unfortunately, you're probably going to hate the answer —it depends!

But today, I’m breaking it down for you with tips to DIY your budget, inspired by a recent workshop with my Freedom Life clients.

Whether you’re planning your move months in advance or trying to figure it all out last-minute, this episode will help you create a realistic budget for pre-departure costs, first-month expenses, and monthly living costs so you know EXACTLY how much you need to save before you move (and how much you need to make to have a good quality of life abroad). 

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Pre-Departure Costs: Flights, visas, shipping, pet expenses, and more—what to include and how to estimate.
• Monthly Cost of Living: How to research and calculate expenses like housing, food, and transportation in your dream destination.
• First-Month Budget: Unique expenses like deposits, Airbnb stays, and setting up your home abroad.
• How to Save Faster: Simple tips for cutting costs, travel hacking, and selling belongings to build your savings.

I’ll also show you how creating a clear budget can reduce anxiety, help you make better decisions, and even show you how much you’ll save by living abroad.

Resources Mentioned:

• Move Abroad Budget Calculator: Get the tool I use with my clients to calculate pre-departure costs, monthly expenses, and savings. Grab it here.

Final Thoughts:
Budgeting isn’t just about the numbers—it’s about creating clarity and confidence in your move abroad plan. Tune in to learn how to take control of your finances and start planning your dream move today!

Don’t forget to subscribe, share this episode with a friend, and follow me on IG if you're ready to finally move abroad.

Want to explore our Freedom Life Programs?
Send us a DM on IG or FB letting us know you want to explore our Freedom Life coaching programs. Or, send us an email at [email protected].  No matter when you’re ready to start, we’ll help you find the right fit.

→ Follow Move Abroad Coach on Instagram
→ Follow Move Abroad Coach on Facebook 

 All the Links You Need:
→ Grab the Move Abroad Budget Calculator
→ My favorite travel-hacking credit card
→ Check flights on Skyscanner 

Love this Episode? What to Listen to Next:

• #15 No you DON'T have to have a ton of money saved up to move abroad
• #77 Procrastination is pricey - why waiting to move abroad is costing you
• #81 Moving abroad won't fix everything but it sure solves a lot 
• #32 No you DON'T have to wait 2+ years to move abroad 

If the recent election has you rethinking your timeline and scrambling to move abroad faster, you’re not alone. In this episode, I’m bringing you a live coaching session with Jennifer, a member of my 6-month Freedom Life Experience program, who’s navigating massive changes to her move abroad plan.

Jen’s situation went from solo digital nomad scouting to moving her entire family—including her partner, his teen daughters, and her adult son—ASAP. 

This has flipped everything, and now she’s dealing with:

• Switching from a digital nomad lifestyle to a long-term expat plan.
• Managing more complicated visas.
• Adjusting her country choices and lifestyle expectations.
• Growing her income quickly to qualify for visas—should she freelance, job hunt, or stick with her business?

Sound familiar? If you’re facing unexpected challenges or big last-minute changes, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you adjust your plans and move forward with confidence.

Don’t Miss This!
For Black Friday, my Move Abroad Crash Course is 50% off—only $18 until Dec 1st! Here’s what’s included:

• A clear overview of the move abroad process.
• Lifetime access to our Facebook group for support and connection.
• A brand-new bonus: a Crash Course Clarity Call with Violet to help you get clear on your goals and next steps.

Go to moveabroadcourse.com to snag the deal and start planning your move today.

 Resources Mentioned: 
→ Chat About Your Coaching Options
→ Work with Jen to Declutter and Downsize!
→ Follow Move Abroad Coach on Instagram

Love this Episode? What to Listen to Next:

• #86 Trump Won... Now What?
• #52 Ask a Move Abroad Coach: Should I Travel For a Year With My Kids Before I Pick a Place?
• #48 Ask a Move Abroad Coach: Finding the Confidence to Leave Your Job, Start a Business AND Move Abroad 
• #21 The Ultimate Leap: Relocating to Mexico with Kids - Ft. Michelle Melville-Kashon
• #15 No You DON'T Have to Have a Ton of Money Saved Up to Move 
• #44 Fresh off the Plane! Moving to the Netherlands (With a Husband and 2 Cats) featuring Monica Hay 
• #73 Navigating the Visa Maze: Inside Scoop on Digital Nomad Visas with Tim Marting 

In this episode, I'm sharing some big news: we’re moving! While Tbilisi has been an amazing chapter, after five years it's time for us to finally turn the page. 

But here’s the twist—we don’t know where we’re going yet! 

In this episode, I'll be joined by my husband Chris while we take you through why we’ve decided to leave Tbilisi, what we’re looking for in our next destination, and how we’re approaching the decision-making process.

What You’ll Learn:

• The key reasons why we're choosing to leave Tbilisi.
• Our must-haves and deal-breakers for our next home.
• How we’re balancing our family needs, work, lifestyle goals, and personal preferences.
• How to use ChatGPT to brainstorm destination options 
• The step-by-step process we’re using to evaluate new destinations.

Join Us for the Journey: Tune in to be part of the excitement, insights, and behind-the-scenes look as we start the search for our next great home. Will it be sunny beaches, bustling cities, or something unexpected? Join us to find out!

 Resources Mentioned:
→ Join the Crash Course
→ Chat About Your Coaching Options  
→ Follow Move Abroad Coach on Instagram
→ Talk to Tim at Citizen Remote About Digital Nomad Visas (let him know I sent you!) 

Love this Episode? What to Listen to Next:

• #40 How moving abroad saved my life: travel and mental health with my husband Chris 
• #73 Navigating the visa maze: The inside scoop on digital nomad visas with Tim Marting 
• #3 How to choose the right country for you (7 things to think about) 
• #76 Overwhelmed by options? Here's how to get unstuck and create your move abroad plan

Well, this isn’t the episode I thought I’d be recording, but here we are. In today’s show, we’re tackling the tough reality of the recent U.S. presidential election and what that means for those of us who are feeling anxious, frustrated, or even desperate to make a change—like moving abroad.

What We'll Talk About:

• The emotional aftermath of the election and how it’s sparking new conversations about moving overseas.
• My personal experience watching the election results from abroad and the reaction from my international community.
• How to find control amid the chaos and deal with those feelings of helplessness by taking action 

Your Move, Your Choice: This is your journey. Whether you decide to keep to your original timeline or make moves now, own that choice and take steps that align with your goals.

Resources to Get You Started:

• Free Resource: This podcast is full of insights to keep you motivated.
• Move Abroad Crash Course: A simple, step-by-step guide to start your move.
• Freedom Life Experience: Ready for full support? Our FLE 6-month coaching program is open, and you can schedule a chat with Violet to see if it's a fit.

You might not have chosen the election results or other challenges, but there are choices you can make right now. Let’s focus on those. Tune in for some perspective, guidance, and a reminder that you have more power than you think.

Love this Episode? What to Listen to Next:

• #85 Beyond the US Election: How Global Politics Impact Your Life Abroad 
• #70 Beyond the Election: Why Moving Abroad is More Than An Escape 
• #32 No You DON'T Have to Wait 2+ Years to Move Abroad 
• #27 How to Vote and Stay Politically Active When You Live Abroad