Worlds Collide The Podcast about moving abroad

Viktoria Daute
  • 5.0 (14)
  • SOCIETY & CULTURE
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

In Worlds Collide I talk with people from all over the world about their experiences when they moved to a new country. It's about culture shocks, learning a new language, get comfortable with new habits. What they miss most, what they really like and what is totally different for them.

  1. 1D AGO

    The Search for Home - Kirien's Story of Migration and Love for Places

    In this episode of Worlds Collide, host Viktoria engages in a captivating conversation with Kirien, a seasoned traveler of migration across six countries. Kirien reflects on his journey from his birthplace in Beijing, China, to his current home in Utrecht, Netherlands, sharing the profound experiences that have shaped his identity along the way. The discussion delves into Kirien's early memories of moving to Australia at the age of four, the complexities of growing up in Canada, and the emotional ties that have drawn him to various places throughout his life. He candidly explores the challenges of navigating visas and the feelings of grief that often accompany migration, as well as the impact of geopolitical changes on his perspective of belonging. Listeners will find inspiration in Kirien's resilience and his quest for a sense of home, as he discusses the evolution of his career from the tech industry to exploring alternative healing practices. With a focus on mindfulness and relational presence, Kirien shares his vision of helping others find their place in the world through his new business, Reclaiming Belonging. This episode is a heartfelt exploration of identity, connection, and the search for belonging in an ever-changing world. Support the podcast by leaving a five-star review or consider buying me a coffee to keep the stories coming! Here is Kirien's Website https://reclaimingbelonging.com/ https://www.instagram.com/reclaimingbelonging/ If you want to be a guest on my Podcast send me an email to Worldscollide123pod@gmail.com or check out the website www.worldscollidepodcast.com Here are a previous episodes with similar experiences: Worldwide Moving Around Steph's Expat Story - Moving Around within the US A Tale of 2 Expats - Unpacking Life in Amsterdam with Monica and John Keywords: Migration, Expat Life, Identity, Belonging, Mindfulness, Alternative Healing, Cultural Adjustment, Emotional Resilience, Personal Growth, International Living, moving abroad. (00:00) World Collide is a podcast about moving abroad with guest Kirien (02:09) Right now I am in Utrecht in the Netherlands (03:45) Kirien was born in Beijing in China (10:20) You chose highly skilled profession that allows you to move to other places (12:13) At age 18, you fell in love with San Francisco (16:09) You were in San Francisco for one year before moving to Portland (19:27) How did you feel about Portland? (22:24) Norway is much different from Vancouver in climate and weather wise (23:55) How long did you stay in Norway? (28:37) You spent three years in Norway on permanent resident status (34:09) There was this emotional breakdown and then there was recovering from surgery alone (38:44) You started your own business together, Reclaiming Belonging (45:23) Once we go, we will be separating our businesses more clearly (46:19) So did you already figure out all the logistics about your moving back (48:16) There are lots of...

    57 min
  2. Living an International Life - a Journey through Grief, Resilience, and Global Living with Nina Aziz Justin

    FEB 12

    Living an International Life - a Journey through Grief, Resilience, and Global Living with Nina Aziz Justin

    In this episode of Worlds Collide, host Viktoria engages in a heartfelt conversation with Nina, a dynamic individual whose journey began in Malaysia and has taken her through the vibrant landscapes of many different countries such as England, the Netherlands, and now France and more. Nina shares her early aspirations of living abroad, which sparked at a young age, and recounts how her studies in England set her on a path of international experiences and professional endeavors across over 45 countries. The discussion delves into the complex emotions tied to migration, highlighting the often-overlooked grief that accompanies leaving one's home and the struggle for belonging in new environments. Nina candidly reflects on her experiences as a mother to a child with a rare health condition, emphasizing the importance of community and support systems for expat families navigating similar challenges. Listeners will be inspired by Nina's resilience and her insights on finding home within oneself amidst the chaos of constant change. As she discusses her book, "The Home Within," Nina offers a unique perspective on the practice of self-belonging and the emotional layers of living abroad. This episode is a rich tapestry of adventure, personal growth, and the complexities of identity that will resonate with anyone who has ever felt the pull of home. Support the podcast by leaving a five-star review or consider buying me a coffee to keep the stories coming! Please find Nina's links: Nina Aziz Justin - Tedx Talk The Home Within - Book The Resilience Mentor - Website Are you interested in being a guest on this Podcast? Then send me an email at Worldscollide123pod@gmail.com or check out the website worldscollidepodcast.com Here are a few other Podcast with similarities: Moving to France - Rachel's Journey from Australia to the French Countryside Grieving in a foreign country - Brigette's Story Worldwide Moving Around Keywords: Expat Life, Resilience, Grief, International Living, Community Support, Rare Health Conditions abroad, Identity, Belonging, Personal Growth, Parenting Abroad, Cultural Adjustment, moving abroad, moving to Europe, cultural differences about disability. (01:50) Viktoria: Nina was born in Malaysia and now lives in France (04:39) When you were a teenager, did you always have that feeling of moving away (09:34) I think something is different now as an adult compared to when I was younger (12:38) Can you explain your version of working internationally a little bit? (15:27) I've always wanted to work internationally. In fact, just before I graduated, I started...

    49 min
  3. The Taxing Transition - Gabriel's Experience Moving to Canada and Facing IRS Issues

    FEB 5

    The Taxing Transition - Gabriel's Experience Moving to Canada and Facing IRS Issues

    In this episode of Worlds Collide, host Viktoria sits down with Gabriel, an American who made the leap to Canada in search of love and new beginnings. Gabriel shares his journey from Tennessee to a small town in Ontario, where he navigates the challenges of adapting to a new culture and the harsh realities of northern winters. With a heartfelt honesty, he opens up about the ups and downs of his experience, including the complexities of the U.S. tax system that continue to haunt him even after relocating. Listeners will gain insight into the unique struggles faced by expats, particularly those related to financial obligations and identity verification with the IRS. Gabriel's story highlights the importance of understanding tax responsibilities when moving abroad, a topic often overlooked by many. He also reflects on the cultural similarities and differences between the U.S. and Canada, from healthcare to community dynamics, offering a candid perspective on what it means to build a life in a new country. Whether you're considering a move abroad or are already navigating the challenges of expat life, Gabriel's story is a reminder that the journey is rarely straightforward, but it is filled with valuable lessons and resilience. Don't miss this engaging conversation that dives deep into the realities of living in a foreign land. Support the podcast by leaving a five-star review or consider buying me a coffee to keep the stories coming! Here are some previous episodes with similar destinations worth checking out: Denise moves from Germany to Canada From Canada over Turkey to Germany - Dean tells his story An Italian Bengali in Canada - Urmi's journey Here is the other Podcast, where Gabriel talks more about his Tax Problem: https://giantsamongstus.org/episode/navigating-us-expat-taxation-and-the-fight-to-establish-a-fair-tax-system-gabriel Keywords: Expat Life, Canada, U.S. Taxes, Cultural Adjustment, Personal Growth, Immigration, Northern Living, Community Dynamics, Healthcare, Identity Verification, Resilience, Love, Life Abroad, IRS abroad, IRS Drama. (00:00) Worlds Collide is a podcast about moving abroad (00:57) Katie welcomes Gabriel to Tasty Trails Travel Pod (02:13) Gabriel from Tennessee calls from Canada to talk about his experiences there (05:47) Canada and the United States are very similar culturally and economically (10:30) Do you ever think about moving back to the United States? (11:24) You always have to pay taxes when you're moving abroad (17:21) Take a look at your transcripts and make sure they don't flag possible identity theft (18:42) When you moved to Canada, did you get a job? (19:46) I'm looking into moving to Copeland Lake because it's bigger (21:17) Even then you were not thinking of moving back to the United States (27:31) Is there something that you miss from the United States (28:05) If you live in Quebec, you need to know French. Otherwise it's not really required (30:43) How often do you visit your family in Tennessee (32:05) Gabriel says almost everyone in town knows him because he's new (33:35)...

    35 min
  4. Beyond Borders - Insights of Culture, Travel and Connection

    JAN 8

    Beyond Borders - Insights of Culture, Travel and Connection

    In this episode of Worlds Collide, host Viktoria welcomes Melissa, an avid traveler and author, to share her insights on the art of travel and the rich experiences that come from exploring different cultures. With a lifetime of adventures under her belt, Melissa reflects on her journey as a passionate backpacker who has traversed Southeast Asia, embracing the unknown and celebrating the connections made along the way. Melissa discusses being a traveler, emphasizing that it’s not just about the destinations but the people encountered during the journey. From humorous anecdotes about leeches during a challenging hike in Laos to the warmth of local guides, she illustrates how these interactions shape our understanding of the world. Listeners will learn about the balance between adventure and comfort, as Melissa shares her experiences in both backpacking and luxury travel. She also touches on the impact of technology on modern travel, the importance of being present in the moment, and how cultural rituals, like the candle lighting tradition in Colombia, can inspire new habits and perspectives. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or dreaming of your next adventure, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical advice. SUPPORT THE PODCAST by leaving a five-star review or consider buying me a coffee to keep the stories coming! Check out Melissa's book, The People You Meet, available on Amazon, and follow her on Instagram at @Fly_Travel_Media for more travel insights. Here are some previous episodes about South East Asia: Beyond Borders - Kevin's Journey from Korea to Koh Phangan, Thailand Moving to Bali Starting a Practice in Singapore - Dr. Elefant Yanni about her Therapy Approach for Expats Keywords: Travel, Backpacking, Cultural Experiences, Southeast Asia, Personal Growth, Adventure, Community, Travel Writing, Connection, Travel Rituals, Modern Travel, Technology in Travel, Storytelling. (00:00) This is a new episode of Worlds Collide about moving abroad (00:53) Hey, Melissa. How are you today (01:06) What makes a traveler, in your opinion? (02:57) What makes a traveler? I don't know. I think we, some of us are born with curiosity (05:24) This book is completely about your Southeast Asia adventure (06:43) Backpacking is where the stories come from, right? (11:39) Sometimes you put your faith into complete strangers when traveling (17:07) The second you smiled and said hello to somebody, everything changed (19:01) Is this also how you would say, like, you would find friends while traveling (21:20) Do you think the...

    41 min
  5. Moving abroad to Italy - Help with Job Search Abroad from Helery

    JAN 1

    Moving abroad to Italy - Help with Job Search Abroad from Helery

    In this episode of Worlds Collide, host Viktoria welcomes Helery, an inspiring Estonian expat who has found her home in the picturesque northern town of Bassano del Grappa, Italy. Helery's journey from Estonia, to various corners of Europe—including Finland and Spain—has been shaped by her adventurous spirit and the desire to embrace new cultures. With experience in the tourism sector, she now runs her own business helping foreigners navigate the job market in new countries. Helery opens up about the profound personal loss she faced when her fiancé unexpectedly passed away while they were living in Spain. She shares how this life-altering event propelled her to seek professional help and ultimately inspired her to become a guiding light for others. Her business reflects her mission to support expats in finding jobs and integrating into their new communities. Listeners will gain insight into the challenges of adjusting to life in Italy, from overcoming cultural differences to the nuances of learning the Italian language. Helery shares her thoughts on the importance of mindset in job searching, the value of genuine connections in networking, and the unique experience of living abroad—where the line between home and foreign can often blur. Whether you're contemplating a move abroad, dealing with the complexities of loss, or seeking inspiration to pursue your dreams, this episode offers a heartfelt narrative filled with resilience and hope. Don't miss out on Helery's incredible story and the valuable lessons she imparts along the way. Support the podcast by leaving a five-star review or consider buying me a coffee to keep the stories coming! Here is Helery's website to help on your resume's and CV's for your job search abroad. Here are previous episodes with similar destinations: Moving to Spain with Astrocartographer Isabel Moving to Spain - Meg's Journey from Cold to the Sun From St. Luis to Sicilian Shores - Jennifer's Quest to Italian Citizenship Grieving in a foreign country - Brigette's Story (00:00) Worlds Collide is a podcast about moving abroad in 2026 (00:59) This episode includes a trigger warning about loss of a loved one (01:40) Hilary is studying tourism and hospitality in Italy (05:20) How long did you stay in Estonia until you went away again (07:10) Ferrera Hilary helps foreigners find jobs in new countries (14:29) You passed your Spanish language exam, and you were proud of that (17:12) How much longer did you stay in Spain after that? (19:24) ChatGPT helps job seekers with their CVs (26:06) I'm specialized in helping foreigners when they are searching for a job abroad (32:31) People say they don't feel home when living abroad, according to survey (35:09) I asked people to name something you are most proud of during living abroad (37:04) Sometimes people talk to me like I am a foreigner when I go abroad (40:13) Why did you decide to move to Italy from Spain (43:04) Tell me about your language process with Italian and Spanish (48:02) Hillary: Future wise, do you plan or can you...

    52 min

  6. 12/25/2025

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

    Today's episode is a re-run! I wish you all a merry Christmas and happy holidays! If you feel generous for the season you can support this Podcast and leave a 5* rating or Buy me a Coffee. In this heartfelt episode of Worlds Collide, I sit down with Linda, who, alongside her family, embraced the expatriate life for an incredible 26 years in Japan. With a recent return to the United States, Linda opens up about the complex emotions that come with repatriation—the good, the bad, and the deeply honest. Linda's journey is a profound exploration of home, identity, and the bittersweet nature of long-term overseas living. Linda recounts the initial allure of Japan, where she and her husband carved out a life rich in community and culture, and the stark contrast of coming 'home' to the USA. She shares the challenges of finding her feet back in the US, where the expectation of instant community clashes with the reality of starting anew. We delve into the nuances of reverse culture shock, from the surprising aspects of American life that now feel foreign, to the things she yearns for from her life in Japan. Listeners will also get a glimpse into Linda's passion project, her podcast "Kaidankai," where she breathes life into ghost stories and supernatural tales from modern writers around the globe. Links for the Kaidankai Podcast are here for Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Whether you're an expat grappling with the idea of going back, someone curious about life after long-term travel, or just looking for a connection to stories of profound change, this episode will resonate with you. Don't miss out on Linda's captivating narrative and be sure to check out her podcast for a dose of the eerie and enchanting. If Linda's story has touched you or if you're eager to share your own, reach out to us at worldscollide123pod@gmail.com or join our community on Instagram @worldscollidepod. And for those who cherish this podcast, share it with friends and consider leaving a five-star review to help us grow. Stay tuned for more Worlds Collide episodes, where the stories of lives lived across borders continue to unfold. Here are other episodes with similarities: Navigating Culture Shock - Cecile's move back to France Building a Life Abroad in Japan - Jo tells her story Keywords: Repatriation, Expat Life, Japan, Reverse Culture Shock, Community Building, American Culture, Multicultural Diversity, Language Learning, Family, Overseas Living, Podcasting, Storytelling, Ghost Stories, Adaptation, Personal Growth, Returning Home, Cultural Identity, International Experience, Transition Challenges, Moving Abroad, Living Abroad, Living in Japan Show notes created by https://headliner.app Support Worlds Collide by leaving a five-star review and sharing with others who might find comfort and connection in these stories. Until next week, keep bridging worlds and sharing tales that unite us all. Show notes created by https://headliner.app --- 📋 Episode Chapters (00:00) Welcome to Worlds Collide, the podcast about moving abroad (00:50) Victoria: Linda and her family have lived abroad for 26 years (05:00) Your husband was teaching English in Japan when you had your first...

    1h 5m
  7. Reinventing yourself - from China over Canada to NYC

    12/18/2025

    Reinventing yourself - from China over Canada to NYC

    In this episode of Worlds Collide, host Viktoria sits down with Tracey, a global nomad originally from China, who has made her way to the bustling streets of New York City. After living in six different cities across three countries, Tracey shares her transformative journey that began at just 16 years old when she left her small hometown for the metropolis of Shanghai. She discusses the unexpected opportunities that have shaped her life and career, including her current role as a relocation coach. Tracey opens up about the challenges of adjusting to new cultures, the emotional toll of relocating, and the importance of finding community in unfamiliar places. As she navigates her own experiences of loneliness and identity shifts, she emphasizes the significance of self-connection and the power of spiritual growth in overcoming life's transitions. With a unique blend of personal anecdotes and professional insights, Tracey provides listeners with valuable tools for processing emotions and building a sense of home, no matter where they are in the world. Explore Tracy's work and download her free ebook on emotional journeys of relocation at traceyzhang.com. Support the Podcast by leaving a 5* review or if you feel extra generous, you can buy me a coffee. Check out www.Worldscollidepodcast.com for contact info and more. Here are 2 more picked episode that resonate with this episode. This is another episode for self help for expats Starting a Practice in Singapore - Dr. Elefant Yanni about her Therapy Approach for Expats and this one is more about Canada International Experience Canada - Jack's work and travel adventure Chapters: (02:30) Tracy's journey from China to New York City (10:00) The challenges of relocating and finding community (15:30) Understanding emotional loneliness and self-connection (22:00) Transitioning from corporate finance to relocation coaching (30:00) The impact of spirituality on personal transformation (35:00) Navigating identity shifts and reverse culture shock (40:00) Tracy's insights on building a sense of home (45:00) Future plans and embracing uncertainty Keywords: Expat Life, Relocation Coaching, Cultural Adjustment, Emotional Loneliness, Spiritual Growth, Community Building, New York City, Identity Transformation, Somatic Practices, Personal Journey, Global Nomad, Career Transition, Life Changes, Inner Peace, Self-Discovery, moving to New York, moving abroad

    41 min
  8. Embracing Change - Christina's Expat Life from Canada to Budapest

    12/11/2025

    Embracing Change - Christina's Expat Life from Canada to Budapest

    💬 Show Notes In this episode of Worlds Collide, host Viktoria welcomes Christina, a Canadian expat who has made her home in Hungary after a whirlwind journey through several European cities. Christina shares her story of moving from Vancouver to Europe, starting with a spontaneous decision in Paris that led her to London, then to Paris again, Amsterdam, and finally settling in Budapest. She reflects on her experiences navigating different cultures, the challenges of finding housing, and the unique aspects of life as an expat. As the holiday season approaches, the conversation turns to Christmas traditions across cultures. Christina compares her experiences of celebrating Christmas in Canada versus Hungary, highlighting the differences in customs and the speed at which the holiday is celebrated in her current home. With humor and insight, she shares her favorite holiday memories and discusses how she plans to spend this year's festivities in Scotland. Christina also opens up about her work as a psychologist, specializing in supporting expats and digital nomads. She discusses the common challenges her clients face, including culture shock, the complexities of living abroad, and the emotional toll of being away from family during the holidays. If you're curious about the expat experience or looking for guidance on navigating life in a new culture, this episode is filled with relatable stories and valuable advice. Check out Christina's website for professional help here. Buy a coffee to support the Podcast here or give a 5* rating in your Podcast app. Check out www.Worldscollidepodcast.com for contact info and more. If you want to hear other expat stories with Eastern European destiantions, why don't you check out these previous episodes: A Family's Transition to Life in Romania Moving to Croatia - Sara from Expats in Croatia Moving to Albania, leaving Italy and the US behind - Jasmine's Story Chapters: (02:30) Christina's journey from Canada to Europe (10:00) Moving to Budapest and the challenges of expat life (15:30) Christmas traditions in Canada vs. Hungary (22:00) Christina's work as a psychologist for expats (30:00) Building a social network in a new country(35:00) Navigating culture shock and identity changes (40:00) Future plans and reflections on living abroad Keywords: Expat Life, Moving Abroad, Cultural Differences, Christmas Traditions, Expat Psychologist, Digital Nomad, Budapest, Canada, Community, Culture Shock, Identity, European Adventure, Mental Health Support for Expats, Life Transitions, Moving to Hungary, Christmas Abroad. Show notes created by https://headliner.app

    41 min
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In Worlds Collide I talk with people from all over the world about their experiences when they moved to a new country. It's about culture shocks, learning a new language, get comfortable with new habits. What they miss most, what they really like and what is totally different for them.

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