From Stranger to Local

susanchen6
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If you’ve ever thought about living abroad—this podcast is for you. Not the romantic version you see online. The real version. The one where you’re figuring out visa paperwork in a language you barely understand. Where making friends feels harder than it should. Where everything is exciting—and uncomfortable at the same time. I’ve lived and studied across Europe—in Spain, France, and Italy. I’ve navigated scholarships, residency permits, housing, job searches, and everything in between. Some of it worked. Some of it didn’t. And this podcast is everything I wish I knew before I started.

  1. Bonus Part 3 - Designing a Life That's Actually Yours

    5d ago

    Bonus Part 3 - Designing a Life That's Actually Yours

    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 the way you see the world, how being open-minded creates opportunities you never planned for, and why some of the deepest relationships we form are also the hardest to let go of. If you've ever felt lost, questioned your career, or wondered whether you're living the life you actually want, this episode is for you.

    15 min
  2. Bonus Part 2 - Psychology, Philosophy & Career Growth: Lessons from Academia and Consulting

    6d ago

    Bonus Part 2 - Psychology, Philosophy & Career Growth: Lessons from Academia and Consulting

    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 major career transitions. We also explore his decision to step away from his own business, the realities of working abroad, and what he's learned from operating across different industries and cultures. A central theme throughout our conversation is the idea of minimizing resistance—understanding human behavior, incentives, and organizational dynamics to create more effective businesses, careers, and lives. Whether you're a student, entrepreneur, professional, or simply someone thinking about your next chapter, this episode offers practical insights on growth, decision-making, and long-term success.

    26 min
  3. Bonus Part 1 - Calculated Risks: Building a Life Abroad and a Business From Scratch

    Jun 22

    Bonus Part 1 - Calculated Risks: Building a Life Abroad and a Business From Scratch

    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, France, and Italy, the personal growth that comes from stepping outside your comfort zone, and how international experiences can change your definition of home. Drawing from experiences in Valencia, Barcelona, Madrid, and a first trip to Asia, we examine how travel broadens perspective, builds resilience, and influences career and business decisions. The episode also pulls back the curtain on entrepreneurship through the story of building a designer perfume dropshipping business. We talk about the gap between social media perception and reality, the unseen work behind success, the challenges entrepreneurs face every day, and the habits required to achieve long-term goals. This is a conversation about risk, growth, discipline, and why the journey behind success is often more important than the outcome itself.

    28 min
  4. Episode 10 — What I Would do Differently

    Jun 7

    Episode 10 — What I Would do Differently

    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. Whether you're planning your own move abroad or simply curious about the realities of expat life, this honest reflection offers practical insights and hard-earned wisdom from two unforgettable years overseas. Working holiday visa: Work and travel in Spain: International Experience Canada - Canada.ca Apartment rentals site: Rooms, Flats, Apartments and Accommodation for rent at Uniplaces My Masters program: Home - FRP++

    13 min
  5. Episode 9 — Culture Shocks No One Warns You About

    May 26

    Episode 9 — Culture Shocks No One Warns You About

    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 small but powerful moments that come with living abroad — like learning to enjoy your own company, eating alone at restaurants, and caring less about what other people think. We also share some of our favorite travel destinations, unforgettable stories from the road, and a hidden gem hotel in Venice you’ll definitely want to save for your next trip. This conversation is part travel diary, part reflection on growth, independence, and what it really means to build a life away from home. Whether you’re living abroad, dreaming about it, or just curious about how travel changes people, this episode is for you. Venice Hotel: Bateo Room - At the boatyard - Apartments for Rent in Venice, Veneto, Italy - Airbnb Top 4 neighbourhoods for students and expats in Barcelona: 1. Sarrià 2. Gràcia 3. Sant Antoni 4. Poblenou Beautiful park in Sarrià: Jardines de Pedralbes

    24 min
  6. Episode 8 — Making Friends and Building a Life

    May 8

    Episode 8 — Making Friends and Building a Life

    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 advice and share real strategies that actually worked—the awkward attempts, small wins, and mindset shifts that made the biggest difference. Most importantly, we explore what it really takes to move from outsider to insider—and why that transition is less about luck and more about intentional action. If you’ve ever wondered, “Why is this so hard?” or “Am I the only one struggling with this?”—this episode is for you. Episode Time Stamps: Introduction and Background Erasmus Trips: A Gateway to Friendship 2:00 Building a Social Network Abroad 5:00 Navigating New Cultures and Making New Connections 6:05 Breaking the Ice 9:20 From Introversion to Extroversion: Personal Journeys 13:20 Building and Maintaining Friendships Abroad 20:15 Feeling Like an Insider: Cultural Integration 24:30 Erasmus Barcelona's Instagram Page: https://www.instagram.com/erasmus_barcelona/

    30 min
  7. Episode 7 — How to Find Jobs and Internships as a Foreigner

    May 2

    Episode 7 — How to Find Jobs and Internships as a Foreigner

    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 firsthand experiences living in Spain, we share practical strategies for finding jobs and internships abroad, where to look, and what international employers actually expect from candidates. We also dive into the cultural side of the job search—how hiring practices differ across countries, what makes applications stand out, and how workplace expectations can shift depending on where you are. Beyond work, we get into what life in Spain is really like: from navigating daily life to discovering some of the best local restaurants, accessing free Catalan classes, and even exploring government-supported living subsidies that can help ease the cost of living. Whether you're a student, recent grad, or just curious about building a career abroad, this episode gives you both the reality check and the roadmap you need to get started. Rent subsidies: Ayudas para pagar la vivienda | Jóvenes de Barcelona | Ayuntamiento de Barcelona Full list of rental aid programs: Ayudas al alquiler | Vivienda | Ayuntamiento de Barcelona Free Catalan courses (A1-A2): Consorci per a la Normalització Lingüística | Consorci per a la Normalització Lingüística - CPNL Free online Catalan courses: Parla.cat: Inicia sessió al lloc Alejandro's Top 3 Restaurants Recommendation in Barcelona: ​Perikete (Tapas) https://maps.app.goo.gl/zsjrFegXHMws5kdZA​ L'Arrosseria Xàtiva (Paella) Three locations available: https://maps.app.goo.gl/CW2XNZPrvRXhT8jC9 https://maps.app.goo.gl/JTEgx6LNpmzazbQx7 https://maps.app.goo.gl/81rxvM5UMstJwV9P9​ Raspall (Free tapas with beer) https://maps.app.goo.gl/LAbWBpMEKtB87FMo9 Dishes mentioned at 5:14: Bocadillos (sandwiches) Tortilla patata (potato tortilla) Paella (staple dish of Barcelona) Jamón serrano (specialty of Spain) Tapas (appetizers) Patatas bravas (deep-fried potato wedges)

    18 min
  8. Episode 6 — How to Actually Learn the Language Fast

    Apr 25

    Episode 6 — How to Actually Learn the Language Fast

    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 with Comprehensible InputSimple Swedish Podcast | Podcast on SpotifyDuolingo Spanish Podcast | Podcast on SpotifyDuolingo French Podcast | Podcast on SpotifyEasy French: Learn French through authentic conversations | Conversations authentiques pour apprendre le français | Podcast on Spotify If you’re a YouTuber, podcaster, or language-learning creator and you’re interested in collaborating, I’d love to connect. My podcast focuses on learning languages faster through immersion, real-world practice, and honest conversations about what actually works (and what doesn’t). I’m always open to joint episodes, guest features, experiments, or creative collabs that bring value to both audiences. If that sounds like your kind of thing, feel free to reach out—let’s build something useful together.

    26 min
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About

If you’ve ever thought about living abroad—this podcast is for you. Not the romantic version you see online. The real version. The one where you’re figuring out visa paperwork in a language you barely understand. Where making friends feels harder than it should. Where everything is exciting—and uncomfortable at the same time. I’ve lived and studied across Europe—in Spain, France, and Italy. I’ve navigated scholarships, residency permits, housing, job searches, and everything in between. Some of it worked. Some of it didn’t. And this podcast is everything I wish I knew before I started.

Information

  • Creator
    susanchen6
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    13
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © susanchen6
  • Show Website
    From Stranger to Local