In this episode of Worlds Collide, host Viktoria chats with Paul, the creative mind behind the popular Instagram account "We Got Frenched." Join them as they explore Paul's adventurous journey of moving to France from Southern California. With a backdrop of the picturesque Loire Valley, Paul shares the pivotal moment that led him to take the leap into expatriate life during the pandemic, trading the sunny shores of Newport Beach for the charm of French countryside living.

Paul recounts his experiences of settling into a new culture, navigating language barriers, and the joys and challenges of renovating an old winery. He candidly discusses the emotional rollercoaster of uprooting his life, the logistics of moving with a dog, and the delightful surprises of French holiday traditions, including the enchanting Christmas markets. With humor and insight, he reflects on the cultural differences he encountered and the importance of understanding one's "why" when making such a significant life change.

Paul's journey is not just about relocation; it's about reinvention and embracing the unexpected. He also introduces his book, "Get Frenched: A Practical Guide to Inventing Your Life in France," which serves as a helpful resource for anyone considering a move abroad. Whether you're dreaming of a new life in France or simply curious about the expat experience, this episode is packed with valuable tips and engaging stories that will inspire your own adventures.

Support this Podcast by leaving a 5* review or if you feel extra generous you can buy me a coffee.

Paul's Website wegotfrenched and his Instagram.

You can find Paul's book here or on his Website.

(00:00) World Collide is a podcast about moving abroad

(01:56) Holiday season is around the corner. Actually, holiday season already started

(02:19) Paul was living in Southern California when he decided to move to France

(06:37) How did you make the move from France to Florida? Okay. So tell me about it. How did you then made the move

(09:52) How did you end up in France where you are now

(12:22) You bought a winery and your living rooms and kitchen are in caves

(14:49) You got your dog certified as a service dog in France

(17:05) Your language skills are a lot better now after moving to New York

(21:14) The French are very proud people, and if they don't speak the language well

(24:18) Get French A practical guide to inventing your life in France

(30:01) You can buy The Evil Empire on Amazon if you're anti Amazon

(31:22) Emily started writing about France on Instagram when she was in France

(33:59) How do you celebrate the holidays abroad? Um, well, France has these Christmas markets

(37:56) Down south, people don't want to go to church on Sundays

(38:49) Do you have any other things that it was hard for you to adjust in France

(42:38) You say you bought your car in Germany because it's cheaper there

(45:18) So did you, um, ship with a shipping container or. No. I would have preferred not to

(48:04) Americans really like their big houses, you know, their personal big yards

(49:21) People always like to talk about moving abroad and then they never do it

(53:52) A lot of people want to move because of the political climate in the US

(58:29) Paul had a squeaky chair on this episode. I didn't even notice when we were recording

Keywords: Moving to France, Expat Life, Loire Valley, Cultural Adjustment, Language Barriers, Holiday Traditions, Renovation, Get Frenched, Expat Advice, Personal Journey, Life Reinvention, American Expatriate, French Cuisine, Christmas Markets, Community, Adventure.

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Today's episode is a rerun.

Support this Podcast with a 5* review wherever you listen and don't forget to subscribe. If you feel especcially generous, you can also buy me a coffee!

This weeks episode is Amanda's riveting journey to Iceland, the land of fire and ice, an adventurous spirit who traded America for the stark beauty of Iceland. In this episode of 'Worlds Collide,' I sit down with Amanda to unravel her decade-long saga in the volcanic embrace of this Nordic nation. From the seismic leap of moving with her family to embracing the quirks of Icelandic cuisine – think rotten shark and boiled sheep's head – Amanda reveals the nuances of expatriate life in an environment where nature's raw power is a backdrop to daily life.

With anecdotes that traverse the spectrum from the challenges of learning Icelandic to the heartwarming community response to volcanic eruptions, Amanda's tale is a testament to the resilience and warmth of the human spirit. As a mother raising a bilingual child and a podcaster with a flair for comedy, she offers a glimpse into the life lessons and laughter that come with calling Iceland home.

As always, if Amanda's story has stirred your wanderlust or you have your own tale of cultural adaptation, we invite you to connect with us at [email protected] or follow the adventure on Instagram @worldscollidepod.

Thank you Serge Quarando for the Music from Pixabay.

If you want to listen to other expat stories about Scandinavian Countries, check out the following:

Moving to Denmark - Aggelos' Experience as a Greek Expat

From Texas to Norway - Judah tells her story

Strong Contrasts - From Barbados to Sweden

Amanda's Podcast is called The Good, The Bad & The Braindead and is available on Spotify, Amazon and Youtube.

Remember, your reviews are the compass that guide others to our storytelling shores. If you're enjoying 'Worlds Collide,' please consider leaving a five-star review.

Keywords: Iceland, American Expatriate, Language Learning, Icelandic Cuisine, Community, Volcanic Eruptions, Bilingual Children, Podcasting, Expat Adaptation, Nordic Life, Cultural Experiences, Moving Abroad, Life Transitions, Community Support, Adventure, Expatriate Challenges, Family Relocation, Icelandic Community, Cultural Immersion, Resilience.

In this episode of Worlds Collide, host Viktoria engages in a heartfelt conversation with Tanya, a passionate advocate for third culture kids (TCKs) who shares her own experiences growing up as a TCK. Originally from Australia, Tanya recounts her journey through various countries, including significant time in China and Cambodia, and her current aspirations to move to the United States. They delve into the challenges TCKs face, such as identity struggles, the impact of constant transitions, and the emotional toll of reentry into one's home country.

Tanya also discusses her work with TCK Training, where she supports globally mobile families and provides insights on how to foster positive childhood experiences for TCKs. With her extensive background in intercultural education, Tanya offers valuable advice for parents navigating the complexities of raising children in a global context. Don't miss this enlightening episode filled with personal stories, expert insights, and practical advice for those living between cultures.

Support this Podcast with a 5* rating or chip in any amount you want at Buy me a Coffee.

Find Tanya Crossmann's Books, Misunderstood: The impact of growing up overseas in the 21st century and Thongs or Flip Flops?: Australian kids overseas and what comes next here.

Find more about Third Culture Kids here.

Chapters:

(00:00) Introduction to Tanya and her background

(02:30) Tanya's journey as a third culture kid

(05:15) The challenges of moving abroad and cultural transitions

(10:00) Navigating identity issues as a TCK

(15:45) Tanya's work with TCK Training

(20:00) The importance of community support for Third culture kids

(25:30) Strategies for parents to support their TCK children

(30:00) Tanya's upcoming move to the United States

(35:00) Final thoughts on the TCK experience

(40:00) How to connect with Tanya and TCK Training

Keywords: Third Culture Kids, TCK Training, Cultural Transitions, Identity Struggles, Parenting Abroad, Emotional Health, Global Mobility, Intercultural Education, Community Support, Positive Childhood Experiences, Relocation Challenges, International Living, Corporate Families, Moving Overseas, Moving Abroad, Australia,

Show notes created by https://headliner.app

Cecile's Relocation Agency Haven In France.

Support this Podcast with a 5* rating or at Buy me a Coffee.

In this week's episode of Worlds Collide, host Viktoria sits down with Cecile, a passionate relocation expert who shares her journey from England back to France. Listen in as they discuss the challenges of reintegrating into one's own culture and the emotional rollercoaster of moving abroad. Cecile also introduces her company, Haven in France, which provides essential services to help expatriates navigate their new lives. Don't miss this insightful conversation filled with personal anecdotes and practical advice!

For more listens about Life in France check out these previous episodes:

Embracing the French Life - with author Mark Greenside

Welcome to Versaille - Katie on Life in France

Moving to France - Rachel's Journey from Australia to the French Countryside

Chapters:

(00:00) This episode is about Cecile moving from England to France

(02:06) Cecile calls from southwest of France

(03:33) You moved to England when you were 22

(05:02) You married in London

(08:06) You were abroad for 15 years so there were some things you had to adjust

(13:14) How long did it take you until you felt more connected to France

(16:24) Difficult in France to find a job as an employee

(18:25) When did you start Haven in France?

(22:05) What services do you offer to people thinking about moving to France?

(26:05) It's difficult for foreigners to actually rent in France unless they are sponsored

(28:44) Why do you think so many people are drawn to France?

(31:15) Your clients are mostly English speakers

(35:06) Since working for your own company, do you like France now more

(36:20) You say you changed your perspective about France from negative to positive

(41:08) When you moved to France, most of your friends were abroad

(42:36) I'm very involved in introducing clients to local people

(46:06) Tell us about your website and how people can find you

(47:39) You are very welcome to give this podcast a five star rating

(48:30) Two more weeks until Thanksgiving. Oh, wow. Isn't that crazy

Relocation, Expatriates, Cultural Reintegration, Moving Abroad, Haven In France, Personal Journey, Living In France, Challenges Of Relocation, Expatriate Services, Cultural Experiences, Social Media In France, Community Building, Adapting To New Cultures, American Expats In France, Moving To Europe, Life In The South Of France, Adjusting To French Life, International Relocation, Overcoming Cultural Barriers, Settling In France

In this episode of Worlds Collide, host Viktoria speaks with Jo, an expat who has called Japan home since the late 90s. Jo shares her fascinating journey of relocating from the UK to Japan, where she not only taught English but also raised her son amidst the backdrop of cultural differences and significant events, including the Fukushima earthquake. As they dive into Jo's experiences, listeners will learn about the challenges and joys of adapting to life in a foreign country, the importance of community, and the impact of natural disasters on daily life.

Jo also discusses her entrepreneurial journey, including her Montessori-based projects and the creation of the 193 Club, an educational resource designed to inspire curiosity about different cultures around the world for children. Join Viktoria and Jo as they explore the intricacies of life in Japan, the beauties and challenges of multicultural relationships, and the resilience required to navigate life's unexpected challenges.

Keywords: Expat Life, Japan, Cultural Differences, Montessori Education, Fukushima Earthquake, Community, Parenting Abroad, Entrepreneurship, Digital Learning, International Living, Moving Abroad, Life in Japan, Blog

(00:00) There are three ways you can support the podcast

(02:30) Jo was teaching English in a small town in Japan back in 1998

(06:14) So you had your little English teacher foreigners group

(10:00) I started blogging about Montessori at home when my son was born

(15:07) Online catalogs to help kids learn about different countries

(19:17) Each pack is unique because each country is unique

(22:02) How difficult is learning Japanese when you don't speak the language well

(27:08) Having a multicultural relationship is hard because of different cultures

(31:07) Your son went to Shinto kindergarten because we hadn't got a Montessori

(35:47) Are you still freaking out at earthquakes after the Fukushima disaster

(39:03) So, um, were the news when the Fukushima earthquake happened different from now

(44:33) All right, that was it. So I say my goodbyes. Thank you, Jo, for being on the podcast

Here are the Jo's links to this episode

Jojo's Blog - Jojoebi

193 Little Adventure Club

Also Worlds Collide has a new Website: WorldsCollidePodcast.com

If you want to reach out to be a guest on the Pod reach out at [email protected]

Please support the Podcast and leave a 5* rating wherever you listen to Podcasts, and don't forget to subscribe! You can also buy me a coffee here. Cheers :)

If you want to listen to other episodes about life in Japan, check out these previous episodes of Worlds Collide

Moving Back - Linda's Reverse Culture Shock after Decades Abroad in Japan

From Chicago to a Life in Japan - Perry's experience with the JET Program

Japan, Taiwan and back to the United States

In this episode of Worlds Collide, host Viktoria welcomes Nancy, who shares her incredible journey of working abroad in Switzerland and Denmark. From navigating the corporate world to dealing with the challenges of aging parents, Nancy offers valuable insights into her experiences living in different cultures. Join us as we explore the highs and lows of expat life, the importance of community, and the lessons learned along the way.

Support this Podcast and subscribe! Press the button in the corner of your app and never miss an episode! You can also leave a 5* rating wherever you listen to Podcasts and/or if you feel extra generous, you can Buy me a Coffee here.

Reach out to me if you want to leave a comment or be a guest on my Podcast at [email protected]

If you want to hear more about Life in Switzerland or Denmark check out these previous stories of Worlds Collide.

Multicultural Life in Switzerland

Moving to Denmark - Aggelos experience as a Greek Expat

Copenhagen Chronicles - Derek's Life in Denmark

Keywords: Expat Life, Corporate Experience, Switzerland, Denmark, Cultural Differences, Aging Parents, International Business, Reverse Culture Shock, Community Building, Personal Growth, Biotech Industry, Living Abroad, Relocation Challenges, Cross-Cultural Teams, Podcast Journey, Life Lessons, Networking, Family Dynamics, Emotional Resilience, Entrepreneurial Spirit

Chapters:

(01:08) Viktoria: Hi, Nancy! How are you today?

(01:49) You've worked in biotech and pharmaceuticals for most of your career

(03:17) Nancy was working for a company in the US when she went abroad

(07:33) When you studied international business, were you aware of cultural differences

(09:23) Did your company help you relocate to Switzerland? Did you have assistance?

(10:52) How is it making friends with the Swiss?

(15:39) In Switzerland for six years working in biotech

(21:06) You abruptly canceled plans to stay in Copenhagen

(24:38) Are you done with this European adventure of yours?

(26:20) Coming back from Switzerland was probably the hardest hit for me

(29:40) You mentioned that faith kept you going while you were abroad

(33:32) When you moved to Copenhagen, you started going to church more regularly

(34:35) You stayed in Denmark after your brother passed away

(36:27) So here's what I love about the state of Montana

(41:05) Were you worried about your career or your family when you moved back

(43:32) What would you say is better, Denmark or Switzerland?

(45:25) There are three ways you can support the podcast. Like one, leave a five star rating

🎙️ Thanks for podcasting with Headliner!

Support this Podcast with leaving a 5* review wherever you listen to it, or you can also Buy me a Coffee.

Here are the links to Kyle's work for Via Travelers and Santorini Secrets.

In this episode of Worlds Collide, host Viktoria chats with Kyle, an adventurous expat who has made Amsterdam his home for the past three and a half years. Originally from the Twin Cities in Minnesota, Kyle shares his journey of moving to the Netherlands, where he has embraced the vibrant culture while also navigating the challenges of settling in with his family.

Kyle discusses his initial motivations for relocating to Amsterdam, including his desire to use the city as a travel hub and to pursue his entrepreneurial dreams. He shares insights on the housing market, the intricacies of finding daycare for his daughter, and the importance of building a support network in a new country. Kyle's candid reflections on the emotional aspects of moving abroad, especially the balance between excitement and homesickness, resonate deeply with listeners.

Listeners will appreciate Kyle's tips on integrating into Dutch society, from learning the language to adapting to the directness of the culture. He also highlights the joys of exploring Europe from Amsterdam, sharing stories of his travels and the unique experiences he has encountered along the way. Join Viktoria and Kyle as they delve into the realities of expat life, the beauty of cultural exchange, and the adventures that await those who dare to take the leap into a new world.

Keywords: Expat Life, Amsterdam, Moving Abroad, Cultural Exchange, Family, Travel Hub, Dutch Culture, Entrepreneurial Journey, Community Building, Language Learning, DAFT Visa, Moving to Amsterdam, Business Building Abroad

If you want more content about moving to the Netherlands try these 2 previous episodes:

A Tale of 2 Expats - Unpacking Life in Amsterdam with Monica and John

From Texas to the Netherlands - Richards Story of Change and Challenge

(00:00) There are three ways you can support the podcast

(01:37) Kyle and his family moved to Amsterdam and now own a business abroad

(02:05) Hi, Kyle. How are you today?

(03:00) What brought you to Amsterdam in the first place?

(04:49) Finding a place in Amsterdam can be tough because the housing market is tight

(07:30) You moved to Amsterdam with your small daughter three and a half years ago

(13:14) Dutch citizens can go to the United States

(17:42) Small things like adjusting tax withholdings can be difficult when working remotely

(18:33) Let's talk a little bit about your travel agency via Travelers

(20:25) You write about your travels and what you learned along the way

(21:50) You have a Greek travel agency called SantoriniSecrets. com

(24:33) How easy was it to purchase a business in Europe?

(27:01) How long did it take for you to get the daft visa

(30:57) Do you think the bureaucracy part in the Netherlands is slower as in the United States?

(32:54) Were you allowed to do traveling while you were pending? Were you allowed

(33:53) I know traveling in Europe is cheaper than in the U.S.

(38:22) How did you make friends living in Amsterdam?

(42:48) Coming from the States, you end up talking a lot about work

(45:14) How is your Dutch, though? I mean, do you probably speak it

(48:22) Is there anything culturally that was difficult for you to get used to in Dutch

(52:04) Do you miss the snow in Minnesota? Do you plan on returning

(54:30) All right, so, um, I guess we're coming to an end

Show notes created by https://headliner.app

Find Florence Wetzel's Book Aspasia here.

You can support the Podcast at Buy me a Coffee here and/or give it a 5* rating wherever you listen to it!

In this episode of Worlds Collide, host Viktoria sits down with Florence, a captivating storyteller who shares her journey of moving to Crete. From her childhood in New Jersey, influenced by her adventurous mother, to her first magical encounter with Crete at the age of 14, Florence reflects on the experiences that led her back to this enchanting island.

Florence recounts her life as a double expat, first moving to Crete in the 90s and returning decades later. She shares insights into the cultural shifts she observed, the challenges of language learning, and the joys of reconnecting with old friends while making new ones. Listeners will appreciate her candid discussion about the complexities of adapting to a different lifestyle, including the relaxed Greek sense of time.

In addition to her personal story, Florence introduces her book, Aspasia, a literary thriller set in Crete that explores themes of cultural differences and the complexities of expat life. Join Viktoria and Florence as they delve into the rich tapestry of life in Crete, the importance of community, and the transformative power of embracing new experiences.

Keywords: Expat Life, Moving to Crete, Cultural Differences, Language Learning, Aspasia, Literary Thriller, Community, Personal Journey, Travel Stories, Greek Hospitality

(00:00) There are three ways you can support the podcast

(01:15) Today my guest is Florence from Crete.

(01:55) Florence: Thanks for being here. How are you today

(05:44) You want to experience some city life, right? Yeah. So now we're going to flash forward almost 30 years

(06:11) M. I. moved back to New Jersey in 1995 due to economic difficulties

(09:42) You also mentioned it in your first email that you are relearning the language

(13:23) The last time you were here was September 2001

(16:21) Was it easy to reconnect with some of your old friends there

(17:34) You've been living in Europe since 2013, mostly in Sweden

(20:47) You were always prepared for moving abroad then?

(21:46) You have to be patient with the paperwork. You have to have a lot of patience

(27:00) If you're planning to go to Greece, then rather go in fall

(30:35) Your book is called Aspasia. Would you describe it as a thriller or a mystery

(35:27) Is Aspasia about cultural differences between small villages and cities

(37:13) There are some cultural differences that are sometimes hard to get used to

(42:03) There was nothing like that when I was here. Um, I'm sure it changed

(43:56) Do you have like any negative experiences since you moved to Crete

(46:45) If you're thinking about moving abroad, like, go for it

Show notes created byhttps://headliner.app

Support the Podcast by subscribing and leaving a 5-star rating wherever you listen. You can also chip in any amount at Buy Me a Coffee.

In this episode of Worlds Collide, host Viktoria takes a solo dive into the complexities and frustrations surrounding the H4 visa. As the dependent of an H1B visa holder, Viktoria shares her personal journey of navigating life in the U.S. without work authorization, highlighting the emotional and financial dependencies that come with it.

Viktoria reflects on her transition from being an entrepreneur to feeling limited and isolated as a stay-at-home mom. She candidly discusses the challenges of maintaining a sense of identity and purpose when one cannot contribute financially to the family. Listeners will resonate with her struggles of feeling undervalued and the impact that the visa situation has had on her marriage and mental health.

Throughout the episode, Viktoria offers insights and suggestions for others in similar situations, including ways to find community and purpose through volunteering, socializing, and even pursuing further education. This episode is a heartfelt exploration of the emotional toll that visa limitations can impose, while also encouraging listeners to seek out meaningful connections and activities.

Join Viktoria as she opens up about her frustrations and hopes for change regarding the H4 visa system, advocating for more opportunities for those who find themselves in similar predicaments. Don't miss this candid discussion about the realities of life abroad and the pursuit of personal fulfillment.

Keywords: H4 Visa, H1B Visa, Expat Life, Emotional Challenges, Financial Dependency, Personal Journey, Community Building, Mental Health, Volunteering, Education

(00:00) There are three ways you can support the World'Collide podcast

(01:14) Today's topic is about the H4-Visa frustrations or challenges

(06:54) You know, through the podcast, I started it. It kept me busy when I felt empty

(10:57) I just wanted to rent about this visa because it can be so soul sucking

(16:56) Check for volunteering options so you feel needed in and be helpful to the community

(20:37) There is one more thing that I wanted to mention about the age four visa

(24:53) All right. And that was it from this week. Po. Thanks for listeningShow notes created by https://headliner.app

Show notes created by https://headliner.app

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🎙️ Thanks for podcasting with Headliner!

Support the Podcast by subscribing and leaving a 5-star rating wherever you listen. You can also chip in any amount at Buy Me a Coffee.

In this episode of Worlds Collide, host Viktoria welcomes Wells, an adventurer with a passion for exploring the Middle East. Join them as Wells shares his captivating journey traversing the region right after 9/11, driven by a fascination with T.E. Lawrence and the historical complexities of the area.

Wells recounts how his childhood admiration for Lawrence of Arabia sparked a lifelong curiosity that led him to retrace Lawrence's footsteps. From the romantic allure of Bedouin culture to the stark realities of navigating a post-9/11 world, Wells provides an insightful perspective on the cultural differences and challenges he faced during his travels.

Listen in as they discuss the importance of understanding and empathy, the experiences that shaped Wells' journey, and the stories of the people he met along the way. He shares how these encounters transformed his views on the region and its people, challenging stereotypes and fostering connections that transcended borders.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in travel, cultural exploration, and the power of storytelling to bridge divides. Don't forget to check out Wells' book, A Line in the Sand, for a deeper dive into his adventures and the rich history of the Middle East.

Find his Book here and reach out to Wells at his Linkedin.

If you want more episodes about the middle east, try out these 2 previous episodes

From England to Dubai

Moving to Dubai

Keywords: Middle East Travel, T.E. Lawrence, Cultural Exploration, Post-9/11, Empathy, Adventure, A Line in the Sand, Historical Fiction, Travel Stories, Adapting to different cultures

(00:00) There are three ways you can support the podcast

(01:48) Wells talks about his travels to the Middle East

(07:09) In 2005, I met up with my longtime friend Miles

(09:08) The play would deal with Middle East peace issues

(15:05) What were your expectations for the book? The expectations were to stay alive

(20:05) In Seeds of Peace, we met the man that started Sees of Peace

(25:53) Jamie Pinkerton says getting a visa for Syria was difficult

(31:04) ACR: We received specific training on kidnapping, ransom and transportation

(35:01) Learning some of the language in Arabic. Learning how to eat.

(38:39) Seeing it and working within it is the separation of males and females in Saudi

(42:57) You trekked from Saudi Arabia to Yemen with a traveling group

(47:42) We crossed on foot and then on a bus

(57:38) Wells Jones talks about his new book, A Line in the Sand(02:15) The inspiration behind traveling to the Middle East(05:30) The impact of T.E. Lawrence on Wells' journey(10:45) Cultural differences and preparations for travel(15:01) Encounters with locals and their stories(20:14) The significance of understanding and empathy(25:30) Wells' book: A Line in the Sand(30:05) Conclusion and how to support the podcast

Show notes created by https://headliner.app

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