Expat Insights

Annegret Bertsch
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Expat Insights explores the real stories behind life abroad. Hosted by certified expat coach Annegret Bertsch, the podcast features conversations with expats, spouses, and global mobility experts about culture shock, career transitions, family challenges, and unexpected joys. Whether you’re preparing for a move, living overseas, or supporting others in transition, Expat Insights offers reflection, encouragement, and community — so you know you’re not alone on your journey.

  1. 2 DAYS AGO

    4. Prepare for Landing - Guiding Principles for Intercultural Leadership

    Discover practical insights from Bernd Scharbert’s extensive experience leading global teams and navigating intercultural environments. In this episode, Bernd shares how small actions and cultural awareness forge trust and belonging across borders, providing actionable principles for leaders and expatriates alike. This episode is a treasure trove of actionable advice for leaders, expatriates, and anyone interested in mastering intercultural skills for both professional and personal growth. Takeaways: The significance of reflection before landing (or beginning a new intercultural phase) and how it relates to leadership and personal growth Principles of inclusive language use and navigating language barriers in multicultural teams The concept of cultural mapping versus stereotypes, and how understanding norms helps prevent misunderstandings Difference between low and high context cultures and their impact on communication styles Practical strategies for building trust through small gestures, authentic storytelling, and showing vulnerability The importance of adapting leadership styles to cultural expectations, including hierarchy and feedback norms How to create safe spaces in meetings to encourage contributions from shy or less vocal team members Tools for developing a cultural “rule book” tailored to team or organizational norms Personal stories illustrating the influence of cultural customs, such as greeting rituals and social drinking, on leadership authenticity Guest Bernd Scharbert https://www.berndscharbert.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/bernd-scharbert-719a384/?originalSubdomain=de https://shop.budrich.de/en/product-2/prepare-for-landing-leitlinien-fuer-interkulturelle-fuehrung/ Host Annegret Bertsch https://www.coaching-because.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/annegret-bertsch/ https://www.instagram.com/coaching_because/

    56 min

  2. 31 MAR

    3. I´ll Be There For You - Friendships Abroad

    Gaia shares her rich multicultural journey, insights on friendship formation, cultural differences, and maintaining meaningful relationships across borders. Discover practical tips for expats and intercultural friendships, and learn how shared experiences forge lifelong bonds. Takeaways - Friendship formation hours: 40-60 casual, 200+ close - Cultural differences in greeting and social norms - Strategies for introverts to meet new people abroad - Impact of shared hardships on lifelong friendships - Balancing social life and personal boundaries in expat life Guest Gaia Striano https://www.linkedin.com/in/gaia-striano-59b87a1b7/ https://www.instagram.com/quierounpaninoconcheese/ Host Annegret Bertsch https://www.coaching-because.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/annegret-bertsch/ https://www.instagram.com/coaching_because/

    59 min

  3. 18 MAR

    2. Career Reinvented: Lessons for Accompanying Spouses Abroad

    Summary In this conversation, Elizabeth Thomas shares her experiences as an accompanying spouse navigating the challenges of expatriation. She discusses the often-overlooked struggles of partners who relocate for their spouse's career, the complexities of job searching in a new country, and the importance of building confidence and a support network. Elizabeth emphasizes the need for a flexible plan, the value of expat skills, and the significance of reforming one's identity in a new environment. Her insights provide valuable guidance for anyone facing the challenges of living and working abroad. Takeaways Accompanying spouses often feel overlooked during expatriation. The transition to a new country can be a blank canvas for many. Job searching in a new country can be more challenging than expected. Confidence can take a hit when facing new job market dynamics. It's important to separate what you can control from what you cannot. Finding a therapist / coach can help in navigating expat challenges. Having a loose plan before moving can ease the transition. Building a network is crucial in a new country. Identities can be reformed rather than reclaimed in a new context. Expat skills are valuable and should be articulated in job searches. Guest Elizabeth Thomas https://www.linkedin.com/in/egrantthomas/ https://www.ncda.org/aws/NCDA/pt/sd/news_article/613801/_PARENT/CC_layout_details/false Host Annegret Bertsch https://www.coaching-because.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/annegret-bertsch/ https://www.instagram.com/coaching_because/

    1hr 4min

  4. 3 MAR

    1. The Dog That Didn´t Bark - What We Miss in Global Mobility

    Summary In this episode, we explore the complexities of global mobility from both HR and expat perspectives. Christian Ter-Nedden shares insights on the importance of communication, project management, and understanding the human experience in relocation. He emphasizes the need for companies to prepare adequately for relocations, manage expectations, and ensure that both employees and their families are supported throughout the process. The conversation highlights common challenges faced by expats and the critical role of HR in facilitating smooth transitions. Takeaways Global mobility requires effective communication between HR and employees. Understanding the human experience is crucial for successful relocations. Preparation and planning can significantly reduce relocation stress. Relocation policies should be transparent and realistic. Expat families need support to navigate their new environments. Researching the destination is essential for a smooth transition. Managing expectations can prevent dissatisfaction during relocations. The role of project management in relocation cannot be overstated. Relocation is not just about logistics; it's about people. Embracing change positively can enhance the expat experience. Guest Christian Ter-Nedden https://www.linkedin.com/in/christianternedden/ Host Annegret Bertsch https://www.coaching-because.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/annegret-bertsch/ https://www.instagram.com/coaching_because/

    51 min
  5. Trailer: Expat Insights Season 2

    SEASON 2 TRAILER

    Trailer: Expat Insights Season 2

    Living abroad is more than a job assignment—it’s a life experience that reshapes identity, relationships, and family dynamics. Expat Insights is a podcast for expats, partners, and global mobility professionals who want to understand what life abroad really looks like—beyond the glossy version and relocation checklists. Hosted by Annegret Bertsch, Certified Solution Focused Coach and long-term expat, Season 2 dives deeper into the realities of international living. Episodes explore culture and leadership abroad, supporting children through school transitions and bullying, relationships and divorce in the expat context in the UAE, and the often-overlooked challenges—and surprises—of repatriation. The podcast also bridges the gap between global mobility and HR, giving voice to the families behind every assignment. With honest conversations, expert perspectives, and a touch of humor, Expat Insights offers practical insights, reassurance, and space for reflection—for anyone navigating life across borders. Host Annegret Bertsch www.coaching-because.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/annegret-bertsch/ https://www.instagram.com/coaching_because/

    1 min

  6. 3 FEB

    10. Multicultural Parenting - All You Need is Curiosity

    Summary In this conversation, Angela Vitiello shares her insights on raising children in multicultural families, drawing from her extensive experience as an expat. The discussion covers the complexities of navigating different cultures, the importance of curiosity and communication in relationships, and practical advice for building community and supporting children’s identity in a multicultural environment. Angela emphasizes the need for intentionality in parenting and the value of understanding and embracing diverse cultural backgrounds. Takeaways Multicultural families can have diverse roots and traditions. Curiosity is essential for understanding in multicultural relationships. Children are mirrors of their parents' experiences and values. Intentionality is key in raising children with multiple cultural influences. Building a community abroad can provide essential support. Parents should encourage open dialogue about identity and belonging. Assumptions can lead to misunderstandings in cross-cultural relationships. It's important to celebrate and incorporate both cultures in family life. Communication about values and boundaries strengthens couple dynamics. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Multicultural Families 05:02 Understanding Multicultural Families 11:30 Challenges in Multicultural Parenting 16:43 Balancing Cultural Influences in Children 20:19 Navigating In-Law Dynamics in Multicultural Families 25:27 The Path of Least Resistance 26:14 Navigating Third Culture Challenges 30:17 Building Community in a New Culture 33:53 Preparing for Multicultural Parenting 38:43 Identity and Belonging in Multicultural Families 43:01 Strengthening the Couple's Foundation 48:22 Curiosity as a Bridge to Understanding 50:54 Introduction to Expat Insights 51:26 Closing Thoughts and Resources Guest Angela Vitiello www.expatparentingcollective.com www.instagram.com/expatparentingcollective www.linkedin.com/in/angela-vitiello-mba-ms-ed www.instagram.com/itsangelavitiello Host Annegret Bertsch www.coaching-because.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/annegret-bertsch-cpc-34a8371a5/ https://www.instagram.com/coaching_because/

    52 min

  7. 20 JAN

    09. Silence or Confrontation - Finding Your Voice as a TCK

    Summary In this conversation, Marie Suazo shares her experiences growing up as a third culture kid, navigating the complexities of her diplomatic upbringing across various countries. She reflects on the cultural expectations imposed by her family, the challenges of communication, and the importance of creating boundaries for personal growth. Marie discusses her teenage years, the significance of community connections, and the journey towards healing and self-acceptance. Ultimately, she emphasizes the hope for a future filled with empathy and understanding, both for herself and for others in similar situations. Takeaways Marie Suazo grew up as a third culture kid, moving between multiple countries. Her upbringing was influenced by her mother's role as a diplomat. Cultural expectations often conflicted with her personal identity. Communication gaps created challenges in her family relationships. Teenage years were marked by a strong sense of community. Marie learned to navigate different cultural norms and expectations. Creating boundaries was essential for her personal growth. Support systems played a crucial role in her healing process. She emphasizes the importance of empathy in relationships. Marie advocates for TCKs and shares her experiences to inspire others. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Marie Suazo 03:36 Navigating a Third Culture Childhood 06:57 Expectations of a Diplomat's Child 09:20 Family Values and Cultural Differences 14:48 The Gap Between Generations 20:23 Teenage Years and Finding Community 23:32 Transitioning to College Life in Korea 30:28 Realizations and Personal Growth 40:00 Advice for Others in Similar Situations 42:40 Hope for the Future 48:25 Introduction to Exped Insights 48:55 Closing Thoughts and Resources Guest Marie Suazo https://www.instagram.com/maries.tck.memories/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/marie-suazo-962257128/ Host Annegret Bertsch https://www.coaching-because.com https://www.instagram.com/coaching_because/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/annegret-bertsch-cpc-34a8371a5/?originalSubdomain=de

    50 min

  8. 6 JAN

    08. Repatriation - The Unexpected Struggle after Expat Life

    Summary In this episode, Annegret Bertsch and Andrea Zahrte discuss the complexities of repatriation and reverse culture shock. They explore the emotional challenges faced by individuals returning to their home country after living abroad, including feelings of grief, isolation, and the struggle to readjust. Andrea shares her personal experiences and insights as a coach for repatriates, offering practical advice on navigating the transition, supporting children, and finding a sense of belonging again. The conversation emphasizes the importance of acknowledging grief, maintaining connections, and recognizing the hidden gifts that come from the repatriation experience. Takeaways Repatriation can lead to feelings of grief and loss. Reverse culture shock is a common experience for returnees. It's important to talk about feelings within the family. Children may grieve differently than adults during repatriation. Finding new routines can help ease the transition. You can have multiple homes in your heart. Acknowledging the emotional journey is crucial for healing. Support from friends and family can make a difference. Grief is a normal part of the repatriation process. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Repatriation and Reverse Culture Shock 05:31 Understanding Reverse Culture Shock 10:22 Personal Experiences of Repatriation 15:13 Challenges in the Workplace After Repatriation 20:33 Supporting Families and Children During Repatriation 25:00 Establishing Emotional Routines for Kids 26:29 Understanding Home and Belonging 28:54 The Importance of Connection and Community 32:59 Supporting Repatriation: Insights for Friends and Family 34:16 The Hidden Gifts of Repatriation 38:00 Exploring Home with Fresh Eyes 39:29 Final Thoughts on Reverse Culture Shock 40:54 Introduction to Exped Insights 41:23 Closing Thoughts and Resources Guest: Andrea Zahrte https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrea-zahrte/ https://andreazahrte.com Host: Annegret Bertsch https://www.coaching-because.com

    43 min
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About

Expat Insights explores the real stories behind life abroad. Hosted by certified expat coach Annegret Bertsch, the podcast features conversations with expats, spouses, and global mobility experts about culture shock, career transitions, family challenges, and unexpected joys. Whether you’re preparing for a move, living overseas, or supporting others in transition, Expat Insights offers reflection, encouragement, and community — so you know you’re not alone on your journey.

Information

  • Creator
    Annegret Bertsch
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    16
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Annegret Bertsch
  • Show Website
    Expat Insights