Expat Focus

Expat Focus: For Anyone Moving Or Living Abroad
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  • PLACES & TRAVEL
Expat Focus

Expat experiences, information and advice for anyone moving or living abroad. Visit Expat Focus at expatfocus.com for more.

  1. MAY 29

    Why Learning Danish Is Harder Than You Think (But Worth It For Expats)

    Sigga Hansen joins the Expat Focus Podcast to share honest insights about learning Danish as an expat. As founder of Lingua Danica and one of Denmark's most experienced Danish teachers, she reveals why Danish is trickier than expected - and why it's essential for truly experiencing Danish life. Key Insights: Why Germans learn Danish faster than Swedes (surprising but true!) The pronunciation challenges that trip up most learners Why Copenhageners immediately switch to English The "hidden Denmark" you'll miss if you only speak English Real language learning strategies that work beyond apps Sigga brings unique perspective from teaching thousands of international students and living abroad herself. Whether you're moving to Denmark for work or love, this episode helps set realistic expectations while finding motivation to push through the challenging early stages. #LearnDanish #Denmark #ExpatLife #LanguageLearning #DanishLanguage #MovingToDenmark 00:00 Introduction 00:39 Meet Sigga Hansen: Danish Language Teacher 00:54 Sigga's Journey to Teaching Danish 02:40 Challenges and Rewards of Learning Danish 03:34 Typical Students and Their Motivations 04:18 The Role of English in Denmark 05:29 Language Similarities and Learning Advantages 07:04 High-Profile Danish Speakers 09:38 Danish Pronunciation and Patience 12:00 Teaching Danish: Joys and Methods 14:31 The Importance of Learning Danish in Denmark 17:18 Staying Motivated and Measuring Progress 18:26 Where to Find Sigga Hansen 18:59 Conclusion and Additional Resources Find Sigga Hansen on Instagram: @LinguaDanica More Denmark episodes: 🎧 Expat Careers In Denmark 🎧 How The Danish Healthcare System Works Subscribe for more expat insights! 📧 Newsletter: expatfocus.com/newsletter

    20 min

  2. APR 25

    Why This American Mom Was Stunned By French Maternity Care (And You Will Be Too!)

    Ever wondered what it's like to be pregnant in a foreign country? In this episode, Carlie chats with Sarah, an American living near Paris who recently welcomed her baby daughter Laura into the world. Sarah takes us through her entire French pregnancy journey - from those first nervous blood tests to her unexpected emergency C-section. She shares the real differences between French and American maternity care, including the shocking perks (priority cards that let you skip lines!), excellent healthcare coverage, and those amazing 16 weeks of paid maternity leave. You'll hear about the French approach to prenatal appointments, midwife care, and what really happens in French hospitals (spoiler: they actually encouraged her to eat a burger before delivery!). Whether you're planning a move abroad, expecting a baby, or just curious about healthcare differences around the world, Sarah's story offers both practical advice and emotional insights into one of life's biggest adventures... in a foreign language! #expatlife #moveabroad #france 00:00 Introduction and Listener Feedback 00:20 Meet Sarah: An American in Paris 01:38 Sarah's Journey to France 04:06 Discovering Pregnancy in France 07:33 Navigating Prenatal Care 11:54 Childbirth Classes and Preparation 15:49 Hospital Choices and Birth Plans 18:57 Sarah's Birth Experience 29:04 Quick Birth Experience 30:59 Hospital Stay and Recovery 32:46 Newborn Care and Challenges 34:26 Support from Nursing Staff 38:04 Navigating French Healthcare 42:56 Unique Aspects of French Pregnancy 52:11 Maternity Leave and Benefits 54:26 Final Thoughts and Resources Sarah's blog - https://abuckeyeinparis.com Sarah's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/abuckeyeinparis

    55 min

  3. MAR 27

    Moving To New Zealand Just Got Easier For Digital Nomads

    David Andrews, Director of Visa Visa Limited, returns to the Expat Focus Podcast to explain New Zealand's new approach to digital nomads. In this episode, we uncover the truth behind what's been called a "digital nomad visa" (but isn't actually a new visa at all!), exploring how visitors can now legally work remotely while enjoying everything New Zealand has to offer. David shares valuable insights about: How the visitor visa rules have changed to accommodate digital nomads Tax implications for remote workers from countries with tax treaties The current job market and in-demand skills in New Zealand Investment visa changes making NZ more attractive for high-net-worth individuals An increase in American professionals (especially doctors) looking to relocate Practical advice on qualification transfers and finding employment The best locations for digital nomads, from Auckland to Christchurch Internet connectivity solutions for remote workers Whether you're considering a short working holiday or testing the waters for a permanent move, this episode provides essential information for anyone interested in experiencing life in New Zealand while maintaining their remote career. #expatlife #digitalnomad #newzealand #moveabroad 00:00 Introduction and Exciting News for Digital Nomads 01:17 Understanding New Zealand's Digital Nomad Visa 01:59 Visa Conditions and Practical Implications 03:57 Extended Stays and Tax Implications 11:18 Job Market and Employment Opportunities 12:42 Investment and Residency Options 19:09 Practical Tips for Digital Nomads in New Zealand 23:03 Conclusion and Contact Information

    24 min

  4. FEB 21

    29 Moves Later: Expert Tips For A Stress-Free Relocation

    Devra Jacobs joins the Expat Focus Podcast to discuss how to achieve a "happy move" when relocating. Drawing from her experience of 29 moves, including living abroad in Korea, Devra shares practical tips on making the moving process as stress-free as possible. She discusses the importance of pre-move preparation, including what to keep and what to leave behind, how to pack efficiently, and how to handle pets and children during transitions. As the co-author of "A Happy Move," Devra provides insights on working with professional movers vs. DIY moves, the best times to relocate, and crucial post-move considerations that people often overlook. She shares valuable lessons learned from her extensive moving experience, including how to avoid common pitfalls like moving during peak seasons or holidays, and practical advice on documenting your belongings for insurance purposes. Whether you're moving across the country or internationally, this episode offers essential guidance on making your next move a successful one. Learn more about Devra's book at ahappymove.com. #ExpatLife #MovingAbroad #Relocation #ExpatTips #MovingTips #ExpatPodcast #InternationalMove 00:00 Introduction and Listener Feedback Request 00:35 Guest Introduction: Devra Jacobs 01:26 Devra's Moving Experiences 03:14 Achieving a Happy Move 05:35 Practical Moving Tips 10:36 Packing and Professional Movers 19:57 Managing Pets and Kids During a Move 25:01 Timing Your Move 31:35 Post-Move Considerations 34:41 Conclusion and Contact Information

    35 min

  5. FEB 20

    Easy US Tax Filing Abroad: Insights From MyExpatTaxes

    Nathalie Goldstein, CEO of MyExpatTaxes, joins the Expat Focus Podcast for an essential conversation about U.S. tax obligations for Americans living abroad. As an expat herself living in Austria for the past decade, Nathalie shares her personal journey and explains why she created a platform specifically designed to help U.S. citizens navigate their complex tax filing requirements from overseas. From understanding basic obligations and deadlines to avoiding double taxation, dealing with FATCA and FBAR requirements, and managing digital nomad tax implications, this episode breaks down everything you need to know about U.S. expat taxes. Nathalie offers valuable insights on choosing the right tax filing platform, explains common pitfalls to avoid, and shares tips for making the process as stress-free as possible. Whether you're a long-term expat or planning to move abroad, this conversation will help you understand and manage your U.S. tax obligations with confidence. #expats #expatlife #expatliving #livingabroad #movingabroad 00:00 Introduction and Call for Feedback 00:23 Understanding U.S. Tax Obligations for Expats 00:45 Meet Natalie Goldstein from MyExpatTaxes 01:36 Natalie's Journey from California to Austria 04:45 Filing U.S. Taxes as an Expat 08:03 Avoiding Double Taxation 13:44 Tax Filing Tips and Deadlines 17:39 Choosing the Right Tax Filing Platform 19:02 Challenges of Filing Taxes as an Expat 19:38 The Birth of MyExpatTaxes 19:55 Tailored Tax Solutions for Expats 20:41 Complex Tax Situations and Solutions 22:59 Digital Nomads and Tax Benefits 26:27 Understanding FATCA and FBAR 34:13 Penalties and Compliance 36:24 How to Get Help with Your Expat Taxes 37:46 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    40 min

  6. JAN 24

    New Year, New Life: Your No-Nonsense Guide To Moving Abroad In 2025

    Life coach Bianca Tate joins the Expat Focus Podcast to share insights on how clarity, confidence, and courage are crucial for a successful move abroad. Bianca, with her extensive personal and professional experience as an expat in multiple countries, delves into common challenges like cultural shocks, the importance of community, and the steps to prepare emotionally and practically for an international move. She also provides practical advice for mid-career professionals considering relocation and emphasizes the value of having a clear purpose and holistic plan. #expats #expatlife #expatliving #livingabroad #movingabroad 00:00 Introduction and Listener Feedback Request 00:24 Meet Bianca Tate: Life Coach and Expat 01:07 Bianca's International Journey 01:56 Overcoming Culture Shock in Germany 05:26 The Role of a Life Coach in Moving Abroad 11:42 Choosing the Right Country for Your Move 17:14 The Emotional Rollercoaster of Moving Abroad 25:44 Building a Community in a New Country 34:37 Final Advice for Aspiring Expats 36:25 Conclusion and Contact Information

    38 min

  7. 12/17/2024

    Could Trump's Presidency Impact Your Move To The US?

    Attorney Mena Maimone joins the Expat Focus Podcast to talk about the various pathways for moving to the United States in 2025. She explains common visas, such as the E2 investor visa, EB2 National Interest Waiver, and EB3 employment-based visa, detailing the requirements and processes for each. Mena shares her personal motivation for moving to the U.S., the key motivators for immigrants today, and the challenges applicants might face. The conversation also explores the potential impact of the upcoming presidential administration on immigration policies and provides insights on how to successfully navigate the U.S. visa application process. The episode concludes with practical advice for prospective applicants, including the importance of disclosing all information and the benefits of hiring a knowledgeable attorney. 00:00 Introducing Mena Maimone 00:27 Motivations for Moving to the USA 02:00 Common Pathways to Move to America 04:01 Investor Visa Details 05:27 Employment-Based Visas 07:12 Challenges in the Visa Application Process 08:03 Legal Support and Fees 16:26 Future of US Immigration Policies 19:50 Conclusion and Contact Information

    23 min

  8. 11/21/2024

    Here's Why Americans Are RACING To Canada - And How To Join Them

    Moving has been a top priority for some Americans since the US presidential election, leading to a surge in inquiries to immigration consultants, Canada Abroad. Deanne Acres joins the Expat Focus Podcast to explain exactly what US citizens need to know if they're set on relocating to Canada. For a free immigration assessment, visit: https://canadaabroad.com/assessment/ For job outlooks in Canada, visit: https://www.jobbank.gc.ca/trend-analysis/search-job-outlooks 00:00 Why Americans Choose Canada 01:57 Immigration Requirements and Processes 04:46 Work and Study Permits 12:25 Retirement and Investment Options 21:37 Cost of Living and Cultural Considerations 22:45 Path to Citizenship 23:22 Getting Started with Your Move 25:00 Closing Thoughts

    26 min
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4
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About

Expat experiences, information and advice for anyone moving or living abroad. Visit Expat Focus at expatfocus.com for more.

Information

  • Creator
    Expat Focus: For Anyone Moving Or Living Abroad
  • Years Active
    2010 - 2025
  • Episodes
    152
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Expat Focus 2024
  • Show Website
    Expat Focus

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