From Stranger to Local

Everyone tells us to "find ourselves." But what if that's the wrong goal? In this episode, we explore why the best lives aren't discovered—they're intentionally built. From empathy and design thinking to defining success on your own terms, we dive into what it means to create a life that reflects your values instead of someone else's expectations. We also talk about why living abroad can change th...

In this episode, I sit down with my former professor from the International University of Catalonia to explore how psychology and philosophy can help us make better career and life decisions. Drawing from his experience in academia, consulting, entrepreneurship, and international work, we discuss how to maximize personal and professional growth, evaluate risk, recognize opportunities, and navigate...

In Part 1, we explore what it really means to take calculated risks—in business, investing, and life. The conversation dives into the concept of affordable loss, why successful entrepreneurs focus on managing downside risk, and how taking intentional chances can create opportunities that would otherwise never exist. We also discuss my journey of publishing a book about living abroad in Spain, Fran...

After two years of living abroad across Spain, France, and Italy, I take a step back to reflect on what went well, what I wish I had done differently, and the lessons that only come with experience. From missed opportunities and cultural misunderstandings to friendships, finances, and personal growth, I share the mistakes that shaped my journey and the advice I would give to myself on day one. Whe...

Moving abroad changes more than your location — it changes how you see yourself. In this episode, I sit down with one of my closest friends from my master’s program in Barcelona, someone I also travelled across Europe and Northern Africa with, to talk about the culture shocks no one really prepares you for. We dive into work culture differences, unspoken social norms, identity shifts, and the smal...

Why does making friends as an adult feel so much harder than it should? In this episode, we unpack the hidden challenges behind building a social life—from feeling like an outsider in new spaces to navigating unspoken social dynamics. Whether you’ve moved to a new city, started over in a different phase of life, or just feel stuck on the outside looking in, you’re not alone. We go beyond the usual...

Thinking about working or interning abroad? In this episode, we break down what it really takes to land opportunities as a foreigner—and what no one tells you before you apply. We start with a hard truth: not every company that promises a work visa follows through. We unpack how these situations happen, what red flags to watch for, and how to protect yourself before committing to a role. From our...

Most people waste months stuck on apps and wonder why they can’t speak. In this episode, we break down what doesn’t work, why immersion changes everything, and how leaning into social discomfort can dramatically speed up your progress. If you want real-world fluency—not just streaks—this is where things start to click. YouTube/Podcast channels mentioned: Introduction to Dreaming Spanish | Learn wi...

Finding a place to live abroad isn’t always as straightforward as it seems. In this episode, we break down the pros and cons of student residences vs. private rentals, share common red flags to watch out for (from scams to tricky contracts), and talk through what we wish we knew before moving. We also dive into life in Naples—what the people are like, the culture, the food scene, and some must-vis...

Landing in Barcelona is exciting—until the paperwork, logistics, and daily setup hit all at once. In this episode, we break down your first 30 days abroad in Barcelona into a simple, step-by-step survival guide. From securing residency documents and opening a bank account to getting a local SIM card and navigating the metro, we cut through the admin overwhelm and focus on what actually matters. If...

In this episode, I break down the key visa differences between Spain, France, and Italy—specifically for Canadian passport holders applying for student visas. I share what to expect in each country, why Italy is often the most challenging, and the common mistakes that can cost you time, money, and opportunities. If you’re planning to study abroad, this episode will help you navigate the process wi...

In this first episode, we unpack the gap between the romantic idea of starting something new and what it actually feels like once you’re in it. From the initial excitement to the unexpected loneliness and the slow process of adapting, this episode walks through the real emotional journey most people don’t talk about. It also sets the tone for who this podcast is for—anyone navigating change, feeli...

In this episode, I break down how I got paid €25,800 to study abroad—and how you can too. From where to find EU-funded opportunities to the key mistakes most people make in their applications, I walk you through the process step by step. If you’ve ever thought studying abroad was too expensive or out of reach, this episode shows you exactly how to make it possible. Scholarship Program: Erasmus Mun...