What’s it really like teaching abroad in Japan and South Korea—including just 1km from the North Korean border? In Episode 77 of The Teaching Abroad Pod, Oxford Seminars graduate Sarah shares her experiences teaching in Korea, Japan, and Korea again, comparing the two countries and the realities of teaching different age groups. We discuss auditory culture shock, Tokyo’s art galleries, food, co-teachers, lesson planning, and potential concerns about North Korea. Sarah also shares her journey to teaching at a university in Japan, what it’s like living there long-term, and her advice for anyone considering teaching abroad.

From culture shock in Japan to teaching abroad in France, Chile, and Hawaii, Trinh shares stories and practical advice for anyone interested in travel and international teaching. We discuss the cost of living, cultural differences, finding great sushi in Japan, and legally working in France as an American. Plus, learn about current teaching opportunities in Japan, Chile, and Colombia.

What starts with an old poster on a university wall leads to an unforgettable teaching adventure in South Korea. In this 75th episode of the pod, teacher Kelly shares her experience living in Seoul, working in a Korean hagwon, navigating cultural differences, exploring iconic sights, and making the most of the financial and travel opportunities that come with teaching abroad. She also offers practical advice for future ESL teachers that you should hear for yourself. Give it a listen!

In this episode of the pod, teacher Kendra shares stories from her life and travels in Thailand, from snorkeling adventures and monkey lunch thieves in Lopburi to camping trips and sunflower fields. She also talks about finding the best Thai food, teaching large classes in a military-style school, and the cultural DOs and DON’Ts visitors should know.

In this episode, host Rowan has a wide-ranging conversation with subject-matter expert Dr. Chris DeLuca about the many risks and benefits of artificial intelligence usage in classrooms. Dr. DeLuca enlightens listeners on responsible use of AI, how to educate learners on the potential dangers, fact-checking strategies, designing AI-proof assignments, and so much more. This one should not be missed!

In this episode host Rowan chats with Kimberly Haley-Coleman, the founder and executive director of Globe Aware, a US and Canada based nonprofit that leads and mobilizes volunteers for short-term service projects in over 25 countries. She enlightens listeners on the logistics of working with local organizations, the carbon footprint of volunteering, common misconceptions, the best countries for new teachers, and so much more!

Find Globe Aware programs on their website: www.globeaware.org

In this episode host Rowan chats with ESL teacher Tanetta about her years of language instruction in China. She dishes on the differences between teaching in various types of schools, how to make friends in a new country, must-visit places, hidden gems, and taboo subjects NOT to discuss with your students. This is a must-listen conversation if you're considering employment on the mainland.

In this episode host Rowan chats with long-time English instructor Leia Lee about the challenges and successes of teaching in Korea as a Korean. Tune in to find out about a lesser-known job search site to check out, some secrets to landing corporate gigs, strategies to engage adult learners, a spicy hangover cure, and more!

In this episode of the TAP we're joined by a very special guest—the founder of Oxford Seminars—to reflect on a quarter century of evolution in the TEFL industry. We also share our eagerly-anticipated annual top 10 list of the best teaching markets to consider in the new year for savings, culture, climate, short-term opportunities, volunteering, and more! 

In this episode we discuss exploring ancient ruins in Honduras, picking fresh local fruit, and the unexpected sources of culture shock in Central America. Bernice shares her experiences with volunteering as a way to "dip your toes" into teaching abroad, as well as sharing a wealth of fascinating photos from her first foray overseas.