Why Russia?

In this episode of the Why Russia Podcast, Kevin Youngblood, an American who has spent the past nine years living in Russia tells his story. Kevin shares his journey from Albuquerque, New Mexico, to Nizhny Novgorod, Russia, detailing his experiences and cultural adjustments along the way. He discusses his initial attraction to Russian culture through music, his academic pursuits, and his first encounters with the Russian language. Kevin opens up about the challenges he faced, from navigating residency permits to integrating into Russian society. Despite the obstacles, he highlights the warmth and hospitality of the Russian people, his enriching personal experiences, and his intercultural marriage. This episode offers a fascinating insight into the life of an American expatriate in Russia, providing listeners with a unique perspective on cultural assimilation and the diverse experiences that come with living abroad.

In this episode of the Why Russia podcast, we chat with Rizma Joshi, a Nepalese native, about her intriguing journey from Nepal to Moscow. Rizma shares her motivations for moving to Russia and her initial cultural shocks. She also discusses the changes she's witnessed in Moscow since 2017, how she stays connected with her roots, and her favorite spots both inside and outside of Moscow. Additionally, Rizma offers valuable advice to newcomers and shares tips on learning Russian through everyday interactions.

In this episode of the 'Why Russia' podcast, we host Alexander 'Alex' John Lee, an American software engineer living in Moscow. We delve into his unexpected journey from being a foreign student intending to stay a single semester to living in Russia since 2017. Alex shares valuable insights about his transition into the tech sphere in Russia, a country he highlights as being particularly strong in tech industry talents, specifically software engineering and hacking. He recounts his experiences studying at the renowned Moscow State University of International Relations and shares the academic rigor and competitiveness characteristic of Russian universities. Alex further discusses the contrasting lifestyle in Moscow compared to small-town Knoxville, Tennessee, his cultural close connection to Russia, and points on missing the convenience of the US lifestyle. We get a chance to explore some of Russia's must-visit places, including Sochi and Siberia's Gorno Altai region. Alex wraps up with practical advice for potential international students.

Join us on this episode of the "Why Russia" podcast as we delve into the captivating story of Alejandra Ballesteros, a young Colombian student studying in Moscow. In this engaging interview, Alejandra shares her unique perspective on why she ended up in Russia, her experiences at RUDN University (Lumumba University), and her journey of adapting to life in Moscow. From navigating the challenges of learning the Russian language to embracing the diverse Latin American community in the city, Alejandra's story provides valuable insights into the vibrant cultural tapestry that makes up modern-day Moscow. Tune in to discover her secrets to language learning success and her recommendations for experiencing the fascinating Latin atmosphere and mouth-watering cuisine that Moscow has to offer. Don't miss this inspiring conversation that highlights the allure of Russia through the eyes of an international student.

You can find Alejandra here:

https://www.instagram.com/valballester0s?igsh=eGZjZ2RzMWlybzBo

https://www.instagram.com/tutorvaleriaalejandra?igsh=ajg4NnRtN2YzcnE0

In this episode, we talk to Marisa, hailing from Richmond, Virginia, who first set foot in Russia back in 2019 as part of the prestigious Fulbright program. Now a resident of Moscow and living with her husband, Marisa has immersed herself in Russian culture and embarked on a mission to chronicle her journey on her buzzing social media accounts. Through her posts, Marisa delves into the intricate tapestry of differences and similarities between the US and Russia. But what is her ultimate goal? To construct a bridge between the two nations, fostering cultural understanding. Tune in to hear Marisa's tales of transition and her insights on Russian life.

You can find her on Social Media as Marisa.the.american

In this episode of the "why Russia?" podcast we chat with Boris, a Chinese student from MGIMO, who shares his journey of adapting to life in Moscow. From discovering Russian cuisine to bracing for its chilling winters, he unveils the charm and challenges of his student life. Delve into his unique experiences, from favorite Chinese restaurants in Moscow to winter survival tactics, and uncover why Moscow feels like a second home to him. Subscribe to "Why Russia" for more captivating stories!

In this episode of "Why Russia," we meet Rachel, a student from a quiet Florida town. She went on a big adventure to study in Moscow at the elite university MGIMO.

Rachel tells us about her studies at MGIMO and what surprised her about Moscow. She also shares the hard parts of studying and how it changed the way she thinks.

Listen to this episode to find out how going to MGIMO in Moscow made Rachel see the world in a whole new way.

In this episode, we talk to Josiah Rose, an American student who shares his experiences studying in Russia. Josiah discusses his challenges with visas and highlights his fondness for Central Asian food. Join us as we explore Josiah's journey studying in Russia, offering insights into his cultural immersion and his culinary adventures. Tune in for an episode that sheds light on the cross-cultural experiences of an American student in Russia.

Dan Castle is a marine who served in Afghanistan and is now living in a small town in Siberia. You can find his YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@WildSiberian

In this episode, we speak with Hunter, an all-American guy who has made a name for himself playing American football in Moscow.

Hunter's journey began when he decided to study abroad in St. Petersburg, Russia. While he was there, he became fascinated by the culture and language of Russia, and decided to stay after he graduated. He found a passion for playing American football and Pickleball in Moscow.

In this episode, Hunter shares his experience of living in Russia as an American, including the challenges and rewards of adapting to a new culture. He speaks fluent Russian, and shares his insights into how Russians perceive Americans, and how he has been able to build relationships with locals in Moscow.