Expat Insights

Annegret Bertsch
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  • PLACES & TRAVEL
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

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. APR 28

    5. Relationships in the UAE - What Relocation Reveals

    Summary In this conversation, Samar Karam shares her insights on navigating relationships as an expat in the UAE. She discusses the cultural nuances, challenges of multicultural marriages, and the importance of communication and emotional support. Samar emphasizes the need for kindness and understanding in relationships, especially in a new environment where traditions and identities may clash. The conversation also touches on the temptations of the UAE lifestyle and the significance of preventive maintenance in relationships. Takeaways Finding a forever home can be a beautiful journey. Cultural insights are crucial for adapting to life in the UAE. Expect changes and respect traditions when moving to a new country. Safety in the UAE is a significant advantage for families. The rate of divorce among expats is notably high due to various challenges. Preventive maintenance in relationships is essential for longevity. Communication and emotional support are key to a successful marriage. Be mindful of the temptations that come with the UAE lifestyle. Kindness can transform difficult conversations into constructive ones. Understanding each other's identities is crucial in multicultural marriages. Guest Samar Karam https://www.linkedin.com/in/samarsamykaram/ https://www.samarkaram.com Host Annegret Bertsch https://www.coaching-because.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/annegret-bertsch/ https://www.instagram.com/coaching_because/

    55 min

  2. APR 14

    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

  3. MAR 31

    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

  4. MAR 18

    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/

    1h 4m

  5. MAR 3

    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
  6. 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

  7. FEB 3

    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

  8. JAN 20

    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
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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
    17
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Annegret Bertsch
  • Show Website
    Expat Insights