Unmarked

In this episode, we talk about the difference between comfort and chemistry. The calm, steady kind of love versus the intense, exciting connection that keeps you guessing. We explore whether we mistake chaos for chemistry, and if comfort is something we truly value… or sometimes overlook. Because maybe the question isn’t which one is better but what we actually need. Homework: Stand by Me by Ben E...

In this episode, we talk about what makes a friendship last, how people grow together or apart, and the quiet moments that define real connection. From loyalty and support to misunderstandings and outgrowing each other, we reflect on the friendships that shape who we are. Because sometimes friendships feel like home. And sometimes they teach you when it’s time to let go. Homework: How to Win Frien...

We all carry something. Old patterns, past relationships, habits we thought we’d outgrown. In this episode, we unpack emotional baggage. What we bring into our lives and relationships, and whether it protects us or holds us back. Because it’s not just about what you carry. It’s about whether you ever unpack it. Homework: Something’s Got a Hold on Me — Etta James Why Coffee No Longer Tastes The Sam...

We’re back. But not everything returns the same way. Some people don’t leave all at once. They fade. Slowly, quietly… until one day you realize they’re no longer part of your life. In this first episode of Season 2, we talk about the art of disappearing, the slow fades, the unanswered messages, and the endings that never really get named. We explore why we choose silence over honesty, and whether...

In this episode, we talk about what it means to raise children today, the expectations parents place on themselves and their kids, and how our own childhood experiences shape the way we think about parenting. And somewhere in this episode… there’s a small announcement about the future of the podcast. You’ll have to listen to find out. Homework: Father and Son — Cat Stevens Read an article about di...

In this episode, we talk about the gap between what we planned and what actually happened. From career paths and relationships to the small everyday moments where reality looks nothing like the picture we had in our heads. Is the difference between expectation and reality disappointment… or simply life unfolding in its own way? Sometimes reality isn’t worse. Just different. Homework: Listen: “You...

For this special International Women’s Day episode, we’re joined by our very first guest, our principal, who also happens to be the only woman on the leadership team at our school. In this conversation, we talk about what it really means to be a woman navigating leadership, expectations, and ambition. From the realities of stepping into spaces that are often still male-dominated, to the quiet stre...

Some people are forever. Some are seasonal. The hardest part is knowing the difference. In this episode, we talk about the seasons of our lives, the friendships we outgrew, the relationships that shaped us, the versions of ourselves we had to let go of. Is change something we choose or something that chooses us? Maybe not everything is meant to last. Maybe some things are meant to teach. Homework:...

Why do we do the things we do? In this episode, we unpack the customs we grew up with: the ones that felt magical, the ones that felt heavy, and the ones we’re not sure we’ll carry forward. From childhood rituals and family expectations to weddings, surnames, and generational rules, we explore what it means to live between honoring your roots and creating your own path. Traditions shape us. But we...

This Valentine’s special, we’re talking about love the only way we know how, honest, nostalgic, and a little chaotic. We revisit our school crushes, first butterflies in the hallway, and the unexpected perks (and realities) of dating a teacher. We get real about love and dating now, what we’ve learned, what we’re unlearning, and the green and red flags we wish we noticed sooner. Plus, we play a sp...

Some first times announce themselves loudly. Others slip in quietly and change everything before you even notice. In this episode, we talk about the first moments that shaped us such as brave beginnings, awkward starts, and the times we didn’t realize we were becoming someone new. Homework: Listen: Olivia Dean — Dive Make a list of books or movies that changed you the first time you experienced th...

In this episode, we’re back from vacation and reflecting on what travel gives us, the movement, the pauses, and the people we meet along the way. From choosing aisle or window seats to the quiet moments that only happen when you’re away, this conversation is about transition, perspective, and how travel gently reshapes us. Whether you travel to escape, reset, or feel inspired again, this one is ab...

In this episode, we talk about assessment — not just in school, but in life. From grades, observations, and evaluations in the classroom to the quiet ways we measure ourselves as adults, this conversation explores pressure, comparison, and self-worth. What happens when being assessed doesn’t stop after school? And how do we learn to step outside of constant evaluation? This episode is about unlear...

In this episode, we talk about hopes, intentions, and the kind of resolutions that don’t come with pressure. As we step into a new year, this conversation is about reflecting on what we’re carrying forward, what we’re ready to release, and how we want the next chapter to feel, both in and out of the classroom. No “new year, new me.” Just honesty, growth, and a little hope. Homework: 📚 Bridget Jon...

In this episode, we talk about what it really means to let go. Letting go of expectations, old versions of ourselves, and things that no longer fit the life we’re living now. From the classroom to real life, this conversation is about release, growth, and choosing what we carry forward. Letting go isn’t losing, sometimes it’s making space. Homework: 🎬 Past Lives 🎵 I Wish You Love — Sam Cooke ✍️...

In this Christmas episode, we slow things down and talk about our Christmas traditions. From teaching through December to finding small moments of calm, this one is about reflection, gratitude, and drinks. Homework: 🎬 It’s a Wonderful Life 📖 The Magic Faraway Tree by Enid Blyton 🎵 Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas — Billie Holiday Follow the podcast on Instagram and TikTok @unmarked.pod or...

In this episode, we talk about the kind of tired that isn’t fixed by sleep, the emotional load, the pressure, and the slow slide into burnout. From the classroom to the real-life burnout, we break down what it looks like and what helps you find your way back. Homework: 🎬 Signs of Clinical Burnout 🎵 Vienna — Billy Joel If you’re running on low battery, this one’s for you. Subscribe for weekly epi...

In this episode, we take you through a full day in our lives as international teachers. The early-morning hustle, classroom magic (and madness), tiny things kids do that make everything worth it, the exhaustion no one talks about, the soft moments that remind us why we’re here. Check our Homework this week! Our recommendations for anyone who needs a little comfort after a long day. 📖 5 Types of H...

In this episode, we dive into the hilarious, slightly dramatic, totally relatable world of ICKS. From classroom habits that live rent-free in our minds, to everyday life icks - this is the lightest and most laughter-filled episode so far. Homework 🎵 Find My Way - Gabe Dixon 🎬 How to lose a guy in 10 days 📖 Icks from the strangers - https://shorturl.at/Y2AWf Follow us on Instagram and TikTok @un...

What does it really mean to live in-between? Between countries, classrooms, cultures — and constantly redefining the idea of “home”? In this episode, we talk about what international teaching actually feels like — beyond the glossy brochures and Pinterest classroom ideas. From classroom stories to loneliness, culture shock, and deep friendships, we unpack it all. This week’s homework: 📖 Brooklyn...

Welcome to Unmarked — a podcast by Nika and Carol, two international teachers talking about school, life, and everything in between. In our first episode, we’re marking something a little different — the lessons life has taught us by 25 and 28. From classroom chaos and cultural shocks to learning patience, boundaries, and self-trust, we reflect on what’s shaped us as teachers and humans. Each epis...