Expecting Expats

Hosts Amanda and CJ
  • 5.0 (3)
  • PARENTING
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Welcome to Expecting Expats- a space where we’re expecting more than just babies—join Amanda, a childbirth educator and doula, and CJ, a therapist-in-training, as they explore parenting, partnerships, emotional growth, and the journey of building a life in a new country.

  1. 23H AGO

    Expat Experts: Building community through language learning - Interview with Amy Fletcher.

    ✨ Episode Summary Moving abroad is exciting—but it can also feel isolating. In this episode of Expecting Expats, we sit down with Amy Fletcher, founder of Speak Easy Sprachschule in Frankfurt, to explore how language learning can become a powerful tool for building community, confidence, and connection. Amy shares her journey from the U.S. to Germany, how she built a community-centered language school, and why integration is about so much more than grammar and vocabulary. From the challenges of feeling “like a beginner again” to the magic of forming friendships through shared learning, this conversation dives deep into what it really takes to feel at home abroad. 💡 What We Cover * Why 87% of expats experience isolation—and how to overcome it * The idea of “invisible anchors” and what we lose when we move abroad * How language learning can feel humbling, frustrating, and empowering * Why community is just as important as conjugation * The role of confidence and mindset in learning a new language * How social events (like art meetups and casual conversations) accelerate integration * The impact of AI and language apps—and why they can’t replace real connection * What it’s really like to run a business as an expat in Germany 🧠 Key Takeaways * Language learning isn’t just about words—it’s about belonging * Feeling like a beginner again is part of the process (and it’s okay) * Connection builds confidence, and confidence builds language skills * You don’t need perfect language skills to start building community * Sometimes the best step forward is simply showing up 🗣️ Memorable Quotes “Learning a language is an infantilizing process—you feel like a child again.” “The language is almost the conduit—it’s how friendships are formed.” “Community starts with connection… sometimes with a single hello—or hallo.” 🌍 About Our Guest Amy Fletcher is the founder of SpeakEasy Sprachschule in Frankfurt, a language school focused not just on teaching languages, but on creating meaningful social connections for expats. Through community events, conversation-based learning, and a welcoming environment, Amy helps newcomers feel at home in Germany. Find out more about SpeakEasy here: speakeasy-sprachschule.de 🎧 Podcast Recommendations from This Episode * Coffee Break German – great for beginners (A1–A2) * Warum Nicht? (Deutsche Welle) – structured learning for beginners * Easy German – ideal for intermediate learners (B1–B2) * Fest & Flauschig – for advanced learners (C1+) who want real, fast-paced German * Sweet Bobby – a gripping storytelling podcast * Molly’s Mornings – mindful reflections and daily rituals 💬 Final Thought Building a life abroad takes courage—but it doesn’t have to be lonely. Whether it’s through language, shared experiences, or simply showing up, connection is always the first step.

    31 min

  2. 4D AGO

    C-section Awareness Month: Amanda shares her story of an unexpected c-section

    📝 Episode Description In this special 6-month anniversary episode of Expecting Expats, Amanda shares the birth story of her first child—an unexpected and unplanned C-section that changed everything. Recorded during C-section Awareness Month, this honest conversation explores the realities of expat motherhood, navigating pregnancy and birth in a foreign healthcare system, and what happens when birth plans don’t go as expected. Amanda opens up about her experience with prodromal labor, a stressful hospital induction, and ultimately a traumatic birth that led to postpartum PTSD. Through it all, she reflects on the emotional impact, the challenges of expat family life, and how this experience shaped her journey into becoming a childbirth educator and doula. This episode is raw, real, and an important reminder that every birth story matters—and that support, preparation, and advocacy are key in expat parenting. ⚠️ Content note: This episode includes discussion of birth trauma and may be triggering for some listeners. 💬 What We Talk About * Celebrating 6 months of Expecting Expats 🎉 * Amanda’s pregnancy as an expat in Germany * The challenges of preparing for birth abroad * Navigating language barriers in birth classes * Prodromal labor and the emotional toll of “waiting” * A chaotic lead-up to labor (including illness and unexpected events) * Hospital experiences and feeling unheard during labor * The reality of an emergency C-section * Birth trauma and postpartum PTSD * Struggles with early bonding and recovery * The importance of expat family support during postpartum * How Amanda’s experience shaped her work supporting other families 🌍 Key Takeaways for Expat Families Amanda’s story highlights important lessons for anyone navigating expat parenting and expat family life: * Birth rarely goes exactly as planned—flexibility is essential * Understanding the local healthcare system can make a huge difference * Advocacy matters: knowing your options and asking questions is key * Postpartum planning is just as important as birth planning * Emotional recovery deserves just as much attention as physical healing * Building a strong network of expat family support can be invaluable 💡 Expat Parenting Tips from This Episode * Don’t over-schedule the postpartum period—leave space to recover * Prepare mentally for multiple birth scenarios, including C-sections * Consider hiring a doula, especially when navigating birth abroad * Take birth classes in a language you fully understand * Trust your instincts—but also prepare how to advocate within the system * Seek professional support if you experience birth trauma 🤍 A Note from Amanda This story is shared with honesty and vulnerability to help other women feel less alone. Whether your journey into expat motherhood is smooth or complicated, your experience is valid—and support is always available. 🎧 What We’re Listening To This week, we’re both hooked on:Real Survival Stories – gripping, real-life survival experiences with a surprisingly soothing narrator. 📌 Connect With Us If this episode resonated with you, share it with another expat parent or leave us a review—it helps more families find support and community.

    50 min

  3. APR 8

    Choosing a School Abroad: Head, Heart & Identity

    Choosing a school is one of the biggest—and often most emotional—decisions in expat parenting. In this episode, Amanda and CJ dive into the realities of navigating school choices while raising kids abroad, especially within the context of expat motherhood and expat family life. With millions of families living outside their home countries, the question of local vs. international school is more relevant than ever. But beyond academics, this decision touches on identity, belonging, language, and your child’s long-term development. What We Cover In this episode, we explore: * The pros and cons of local vs. international schools * How school choice impacts your child’s identity and cultural connection * The role of language in expat family life and long-term integration * Practical considerations like cost, commute, curriculum, and teacher turnover * The emotional side of decision-making in expat motherhood We also share personal stories from raising children in Germany and the very real pressures that come with making “the right” choice for your family. Expat Parenting Tips from This Episode If you’re currently choosing a school abroad, here are some key expat parenting tips we discuss: * Think beyond academics: Schools shape values, identity, and social skills * Consider your child’s temperament: Will they thrive in a new language environment? * Ask the right questions: * What language(s) are used in teaching? * How does the school support non-native speakers? * What’s the teacher turnover rate? * Look at logistics: Where do classmates live? How easy are playdates? * Plan for the future: Will this school support potential moves to another country? Supporting Your Expat Family This episode highlights the importance of expat family support—from teachers, schools, and fellow parents. Whether you choose a local or international path, having a supportive community can make all the difference in your child’s experience (and yours). Join the Conversation We’d love to hear from you: * How did you choose a school for your child abroad? * What factors mattered most to your family? * Do you have any advice for other expat parents navigating this decision? Send us a message or connect with us on social—we’re building this space together 💛 🎧 Mentioned in This Episode * “Unpacked” podcast – on navigating expat life during crisis * “The Psychology of Your 20s” – insights on identity, attachment, and more

    45 min

  4. MAR 25

    Starting Kita in Germany - What Expat Parents Need to Know

    Starting daycare abroad can feel overwhelming — especially when you’re navigating a new system, a new language, and a new culture at the same time. In this episode of Expecting Expats, Amanda and CJ talk about one of the biggest milestones in expat family life: starting Kita (daycare) in Germany. From confusing application portals to the emotional rollercoaster of the settling-in period, this conversation covers the practical realities and the emotional side of expat parenting when your child enters childcare in a new country. Whether you’re pregnant, waiting for a daycare spot, or already in the middle of the process, this episode is packed with honest stories, helpful insights, and real-life expat parenting tips. 🇩🇪 What we talk about in this episode * How the German Kita system works * Why you may need to apply for daycare while still pregnant * Different childcare options (Kita, Tagesmutter, kindergarten) * What the Eingewöhnung settling-in period is really like * How long the adjustment phase can take (and why it’s hard to plan around) * The emotional side of daycare for parents — guilt, relief, and everything in between * Why childcare is especially important for expat family support * How sibling spots and networking sometimes help you get a place * What to look for when choosing a Kita * How daycare culture in Germany differs from other countries 🌍 Expat parenting reality: Doing it without family nearby For many families abroad, daycare isn’t just helpful — it’s essential.
Without grandparents or relatives nearby, childcare providers often become a key part of your expat motherhood and expat parenting journey. Amanda and CJ share their own experiences raising kids in Germany, including: * Finding childcare without local family support * Balancing work, identity, and motherhood abroad * Feeling guilty even when daycare is the right choice * Why high-quality childcare matters so much for expat families ❤️ The emotional side of starting daycare Starting Kita isn’t just a logistical step — it’s a huge emotional transition. In this episode we talk about: * The first time leaving your baby with someone else * Feeling ready to work again but also sad * How the slow German settling-in process can help both parents and kids * Why the transition can be harder for expats If you’re in the middle of this stage, you’re not alone — and this episode is here to give you reassurance, perspective, and practical expat parenting tips. 📚 Recommendations from this episode * Book: Your Competent Child by Jesper Juul * Podcast: The Worldschooling Podcast 🎧 About Expecting Expats Expecting Expats is a podcast about expat motherhood, expat parenting, and expat family life — the real, honest, sometimes messy experience of raising children abroad. We talk about pregnancy, parenting, relationships, identity, and building a support system far from home. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe and share it with another expat parent who might need some expat family support today.

    42 min

  5. MAR 11

    The role of Attachment - in early childhood and adult relationships

    In this episode, Amanda and CJ explore the significance of attachment styles in early childhood and adult relationships, particularly for expat families. They discuss how early attachment shapes emotional stability and learning, the implications of the still face study, and common misconceptions about attachment. The conversation delves into the four adult attachment styles, the impact of moving abroad on attachment, and practical tips for new parents to foster secure attachments. They emphasize the importance of communication, repair in relationships, and creating stability through routines and rituals. Podcast recommendations: The Mel Robbin’s Podcast: Why do I love the way that I love? The 4 attachment styles explained: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3MC7N7rJW2KHoHdSQgmnCx?si=i7ioP_ddTSGBW68NSq3fTw Dybdepsykologi: https://open.spotify.com/show/10J3TORvJKFMANnCHrimKd?si=qu9aTy2FQNypOC2HuYaI1w

    40 min

  6. FEB 25

    Expat Experts: Navigating Perimenopause: Interview with Dr. Colette White

    In this episode of Expecting Expats, Amanda and CJ delve into the often misunderstood topic of perimenopause, a phase that affects millions of women globally. They are joined by Dr. Colette White, a clinician specializing in women's health, who shares her insights on the challenges women face during this transition. Dr. White emphasizes the importance of awareness and education regarding perimenopause, highlighting that symptoms can begin as early as the mid-30s and can include mood changes, sleep disturbances, and physical discomfort. Despite the prevalence of these symptoms, many women feel unprepared and unsupported due to a lack of information and stigma surrounding the topic. Dr. White discusses her personal journey through motherhood and perimenopause, illustrating the unique challenges faced by expat women navigating healthcare systems in foreign countries. She stresses the importance of seeking evidence-based support and encourages women to document their symptoms to better communicate with healthcare providers. The conversation also touches on the misconceptions surrounding hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and the benefits it can offer, dispelling fears and promoting a proactive approach to managing health during this life stage. Overall, the episode serves as a valuable resource for women seeking clarity and support during their perimenopausal journey. Link to Dr. White’s website: https://www.menocare.de/ Find her on instagram: @menocare_de Podcast Recommendations: ​Unpacked with Anna & Emma: Episode 14, The Magic Formula for Thriving abroad: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6PLm1K0soaAuB8FYNH3Z5r?si=tqmxEN_HTTS7U5s9inq2Sw​Wiser than me with Julia Louis-Dreyfus: https://open.spotify.com/show/3zaHNdVeLiqOSXwxdoWcij?si=iKdJTD83RYWt8n_mGrPOZw​How to Fail by Elizabeth Day: https://open.spotify.com/show/4m7U7kNne0iu35HK571Ui8?si=Kzg847O9TOCtciKzFuPuMg

    45 min

  7. FEB 11

    Keeping the romance alive after kids: a Valentines Special

    In this episode, Amanda and CJ explores the significant decline in sex among couples after having children, highlighting the various factors contributing to this change, including fatigue, caregiving demands, and shifts in couple dynamics. Takeaways * A lot of studies show that couples' sex life tends to decline after having kids. * Fatigue, sleep disruption, and caregiving demands contribute to this decline. * Change in roles and less couple time affects intimacy. * As much as 60% of married couples report a decrease in sexual frequency after having kids. * 30% say that sex has become less satisfying in the last five years after having kids. * The decline in sexual frequency is a significant issue for many couples. * Understanding these changes is crucial for maintaining intimacy. * Couples need to find ways to reconnect after having children. * Communication is key to addressing sexual satisfaction. * Support systems can help couples navigate these challenges. Podcast Recommendation: Motherhood Sessions: 2 Years Without Sex : https://open.spotify.com/episode/4oQ1SbW6yVw6ILUhixUeOs?si=m0Nn1kC5RraRBG6mYl2bRA Book Recommendation: Mating in Captivity: Unlocking Erotic Intelligence by Ester Perel

    28 min

  8. JAN 29

    Who am I now? Identity changes in motherhood

    In this episode of Expecting Expats, Amanda and CJ explore the profound identity shifts that accompany motherhood, particularly for those parenting abroad. They discuss personal experiences, the evolution of relationships, the importance of community support, and strategies for reclaiming one's identity amidst the challenges of motherhood. The conversation emphasizes that while the journey can be difficult, it ultimately leads to personal growth and a new understanding of self. Takeaways * Becoming a parent reshapes your identity in profound ways. * Motherhood abroad adds layers of complexity to identity shifts. * It's common to feel a sense of loss regarding your old self. * The transition into motherhood often involves grief for your previous life. * Community support is crucial for navigating motherhood. * Reclaiming your identity is a step-by-step process. * Relationships with partners and friends evolve after having children. * Self-care practices, like meditation, can help in the transition. * Understanding that motherhood is an evolution can provide relief. * You're not alone in feeling lost; it's a shared experience among mothers. Podcast recommendation: This is Actually Happening (by Wondery) Book recommendation: Boy mom (by Ruth Whippman) Link to the podcast episode referred to: https://open.spotify.com/episode/26KSGRz0cYTubqqnp366d5?si=UynpSCuUS3ycpPzBhmursA

    35 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Welcome to Expecting Expats- a space where we’re expecting more than just babies—join Amanda, a childbirth educator and doula, and CJ, a therapist-in-training, as they explore parenting, partnerships, emotional growth, and the journey of building a life in a new country.

Information

  • Creator
    Hosts Amanda and CJ
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    80
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Hosts Amanda and CJ
  • Show Website
    Expecting Expats