Almost Local: Living Abroad Stories

Marc Alcobé Talló
  • 4.6 (7)
  • Personal Journals
  • Updated Biweekly

Almost Local is a podcast about the honest, human side of building a life somewhere new. Hosted by Marc Alcobé, the show goes beyond visas, moving checklists, and picture-perfect foreigner stories to explore what it really means to live abroad. Through thoughtful conversations with people around the world, Almost Local looks at belonging, identity, culture shock, loneliness, community, and the slow process of turning an unfamiliar place into something that feels like home. These are stories of living between cultures, redefining where you’re from, and discovering who you become when life takes you elsewhere. Whether you’re already living abroad, planning a move, or simply curious about life in another country, Almost Local is a space for reflection, connection, and real experiences beyond borders. New episodes every two weeks on Mondays, featuring personal stories from around the world, shared with honesty, depth, and nuance.

  1. Sep 7

    #72 - How Podcasting Became a Business Model for Living Abroad with Roy Coughlan

    The conversation covers a range of topics including changes in infrastructure, safety, and lifestyle in Poland, as well as the evolution of podcasting as a business. It also delves into the use of AI in podcast production and the challenges of maintaining multiple podcasts. The conversation with Roy Coughlan covers various aspects of podcasting, including the benefits of podcasting, strategies for success, public speaking tips, and podcasting equipment recommendations. Roy also shares insights on hosting multiple shows, the importance of preparation, and the value of short-form clips for marketing. Additionally, he emphasizes the significance of systemizing the podcasting process and provides advice on engaging with listeners and guests. Key topics Infrastructure improvements in Poland have led to better roads and city development.Safety and lifestyle in Poland are highlighted as positive aspects of living there.Podcasting has evolved from a hobby to a business, with a focus on engagement and monetization.The use of AI in podcast production has streamlined processes and improved efficiency. Commit to podcasting for at least a year to see the benefitsPreparation and systemization are key to successful podcastingShort-form clips and interactive content can enhance audience engagement 🎙️ The guest: Roy Coughlan Roy is a seasoned podcaster and coach who has built a flexible, fully online media business around multiple shows, consistency, and smart systems. He comes across as practical, experienced, and candid, with a strong focus on simplicity, resilience, and helping creators avoid common podcasting mistakes. 🔗 Guest Links https://roycoughlan.com/https://va.world/https://brainupgrade.orghttps://www.facebook.com/roycoughlanhttps://www.instagram.com/roy_coughlan/https://www.youtube.com/@roycoughlanhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/roycoughlan/ What we discuss: 00:00 Introduction03:13 Safety and Lifestyle in Poland05:22 Evolution of Podcasting as a Business22:28 Challenges and Automation in Podcast Production31:24 Benefits of Podcasting35:13 Strategies for Success35:28 Public Speaking Tips47:51 Podcasting Equipment Recommendations54:50 Hosting Multiple Shows Check and subscribe to the The Almost Local Letter 🗞️: https://almostlocal.riverside.com/newsletter

    #72 - How Podcasting Became a Business Model for Living Abroad with Roy Coughlan

  2. Aug 24

    #71 - The Things Nobody Tells You About Living in Athens as a Foreigner with Anthony Muiruri

    Marc Alcobé speaks with Anthony Muiruri, a Kenya-born author, speaker, and MC now based in Athens, Greece. The conversation explores what it really takes to adapt to life in Greece, from language and culture to work, healthcare, and the realities of bureaucracy. Key topics He shares what life was like growing up in Kenya, including walking 5 kilometers to school each way and helping on the farm with animals.Anthony explains how Greece became his first real move abroad, even though he had originally dreamed of going to the U.S.He describes the early culture shock in Athens, especially language barriers.Anthony talks about how his professional path started to take shape in Greece through personal development.He explains how TikTok during lockdown accelerated his visibility and pushed him toward writing.He describes the Kenyan community in Greece as small but highly supportive.He compares life in Kenya and Greece across cost of living, work culture, and healthcare and more. 🎙️ The guest: Anthony Muiruri A Kenya-born author, speaker, and MC based in Athens, Greece, where he shares his journey of adapting to life abroad through personal development and community building. He is also the creator of Be Good for Good and the host of Abroad Experience, where he explores what it means to belong, grow, and thrive across cultures. 🔗 Guest Links https://www.anthonymuiruri.com/https://www.instagram.com/anthonymuiruri/https://www.tiktok.com/@anthony_muiruri/https://www.youtube.com/c/AnthonyMuirurihttps://www.facebook.com/anthonysmuiruri/ What we discuss: 00:00 — Intro02:13 — Growing up in central Kenya03:27 — Athens is the first place he lands in Greece05:50 — Europe vs expectation; Athens polished and rough07:18 — Learning Greek and the “head nod” confusion08:25 — How personal development led to speaking and MC work10:30 — The push to write and publish his first book12:54 — The Kenyan community in Athens15:32 — Biggest cultural adjustment: saying sorry18:03 — How he made friends and built community19:17 — Learning Greek through everyday life and cartoons21:21 — Cost of living in Kenya vs Greece23:30 — Finding housing with help from the community25:57 — Work culture and standard salaries27:20 — Getting around Athens28:07 — Healthcare in Greece30:17 — Bureaucracy and paperwork32:13 — Best and worst part of Greece: the weather34:28 — Advice for people moving to Greece36:26 — How to contact Anthony39:39 — Closing remarks and season finale Check and subscribe to the The Almost Local Letter 🗞️: https://almostlocal.riverside.com/newsletter

    #71 - The Things Nobody Tells You About Living in Athens as a Foreigner with Anthony Muiruri

  3. Aug 17

    #70 - From City to Farm Life: Benefits of a Community Focused on Food Sovereignty with Thomas Patton

    In this episode, Thomas Patton shares his journey from industrial farming to regenerative land management in Panama, explaining how his approach aims to combine ecological sustainability with community living. Listen to discover how land, food security, and innovative community models like Lega Vera are transforming lifestyles and farming practices. Key topics Thomas Patton’s background: Growing up in Panama with US roots, and his transition from bodybuilding to regenerative farmingThe principles of regenerative land management: Moving away from industrial farming, focusing on soil health and ecosystem balanceThe evolution from traditional farming to a multi-species, soil-fed farm systemThe concept of farm-to-table and how farming integrates with community storytellingThe benefits and challenges of regenerative farming: Costs, learning curve, and the importance of holistic collaborationLifestyle trade-offs: The balance between city convenience and rural authenticity, and the hybrid living model in PanamaThe cultural and social aspects of life in Panama: Diversity, language, social life, and work cultureThe vision for Lega Vera: Supporting sustainable farmers, reducing reliance on external inputs, and building resilient communities 🎙️ The guest: Thomas Patton A regenerative land manager and farmer in Panama who has transformed his family’s agricultural operation into a holistic, multi-species system focused on soil health, food security, and sustainability. He blends practical business thinking with a deep respect for nature, moving away from industrial farming toward a more resilient model that includes farm-to-table food, agrotourism, and the development of Lega Vera, a farm village designed to support like-minded people who want a closer relationship with land and food. 🔗 Guest Links https://www.instagram.com/thomaspatton_/https://www.instagram.com/legaverafarmvillage/https://www.instagram.com/coquirasoil/https://legavera.com/ What we discuss: 00:00 — Episode introduction2:15 — Introducing Thomas Patton “I am a regenerative land manager”6:05 — Coming back to the farm after university7:30 — Discovering the farm was doing everything wrong9:18 — Guests reacting to agrotourism and farm life12:45 — What “regenerative operation” actually means15:08 — Why nature and economics are not separate16:40 — Why Lega Vera was created18:37 — Turning the farm into a restaurant and story21:30 — What Lega Vera is as a private farm village26:50 — The learning curve and trade-offs of regeneration49:57 — How to contact Lega Vera and what it stands for Check and subscribe to the The Almost Local Letter 🗞️: https://almostlocal.riverside.com/newsletter

    #70 - From City to Farm Life: Benefits of a Community Focused on Food Sovereignty with Thomas Patton

  4. Aug 10

    #69 - The Hidden Challenges of Moving Abroad: Honeymoon Phase Always Ends with Simo D

    In this episode, Simo D shares his journey from a construction contractor in Canada to a digital nomad living in Belize. He offers a candid look at the realities of relocating, building new careers, and adapting to a new culture while providing practical frameworks for managing transitions abroad. Key topics: The motivations behind moving from Canada to Belize and the financial benefits of Belize's lower cost of livingThe cultural nuances of Belize, highlighting high vs. low context communication styles and the importance of cultural adaptationThe trade-offs of living a tourist-focused lifestyle versus integrating more deeply into local lifeThe significance of understanding property laws in Belize, especially concerning beachfront lands and foreign investmentThe impact of local infrastructure, power outages, and climate on daily lifePersonal insights on managing the honeymoon phase and the reality of long-term expatriate life in Belize 🎙️ Guest: Simo D A former contractor with 20 years of construction experience in Canada who relocated to Belize with his family in 2022. He’s now an AI systems designer and writer, sharing practical, unfiltered insights about expat life, career pivots, and the tradeoffs of building a new life abroad. 🔗 Guest Links https://www.instagram.com/foreign.radio/https://simod.substack.com/https://bottbott.substack.com/https://www.youtube.com/@ForeignRadio/https://www.linkedin.com/in/simon-d-ai-systems-director-building-for-changehttps://movesmart.world/ What we discuss: 00:00 - Introduction: Who is Simo D and what drives his move to Belize02:21 - The decision to relocate: family, lifestyle, and early research02:49 - How the pandemic and medical emergencies shaped their timing03:14 - Adjusting to life in Belize: property, cost of living, and local culture03:26 - Cultural differences: high vs. low context communication05:30 - Navigating land ownership, land tensions, and community dynamics07:58 - The honeymoon phase versus real life: challenges of establishing roots09:40 - Transitioning careers: from construction to AI and content creation10:55 - Tools for discovering remote work opportunities and navigating legal requirements17:42 - Realities of tourism dependence and lifestyle trade-offs20:14 - Strategies for finding a home: using specialized tools and local knowledge40:54 - The best and worst parts of Belize: climate, cost, and lifestyle differences44:43 - Final thoughts: embracing change, managing expectations, and thriving abroad Check and subscribe to the The Almost Local Letter 🗞️: https://almostlocal.riverside.com/newsletter

    #69 - The Hidden Challenges of Moving Abroad: Honeymoon Phase Always Ends with Simo D

  5. Aug 3

    #68 - 15 Years in Mexico: Why This American Won't Leave with Greg Gunter

    Discover what makes San Miguel de Allende one of the world’s most beloved expat destinations through Greg Gunther’s firsthand experience. From cultural adaptation to real estate insights, this episode charts a path for those considering a long-term move or investment in this vibrant Mexican town. In this episode: Greg’s journey from a US architect and developer to a full-time expat in MexicoHow San Miguel de Allende’s rich history preserves its architectural beauty and charmThe exponential growth of the expat community and the town’s transformation over 17 yearsPractical tips on integrating into local life, including language learning and social scenesThe affordability and cost of living advantages compared to the US and EuropeA deep dive into real estate opportunities, neighborhood gentrification, and finding the perfect homeNavigating healthcare in San Miguel de Allende: facilities, access, and qualityCultural nuances like the ‘mañana’ attitude and living the local lifestyleThe importance of research and choosing the right neighborhood for comfort and safetyHow digital tools and social networks simplify moving and settling in 🎙️ Guest: Greg Gunter An American architect-turned-real-estate broker who has lived in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, for more than 15 years. He helps other foreigners and prospective buyers understand the city, its neighbourhoods, and what it takes to settle into life there successfully. 🔗 Guest Links Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dreamprohomes/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SanMiguelDreamProHomes Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dreamprohomes/ Website: https://dreamprohomesluxury.com/ Email: greg@gregorygunter.com Phone: +1 877-878-4141 Check and subscribe to the The Almost Local Letter 🗞️: https://almostlocal.riverside.com/newsletter Follow us on social media 📲: https://www.youtube.com/@almostlocalstorieshttps://www.instagram.com/almostlocalstorieshttps://www.tiktok.com/@almostlocalstorieshttps://www.facebook.com/almostlocalstories 🌎 ✈️ Join Almost Local now and connect with a global community of like-minded people living abroad!

    #68 - 15 Years in Mexico: Why This American Won't Leave with Greg Gunter

  6. Jul 27

    #67 - Why Parenting Abroad Changes Everything with Anthi Patrikios

    In this episode, Anthi Patrikios shares her rich journey from childhood in Greece to living and working across multiple countries, ultimately pivoting to parent coaching and community building abroad in Uzbekistan. Her insights reveal how embracing mobility, cultural curiosity, and personal growth shape a fulfilling global life. Main Topics: The transformative power of freedom in early life and choicesNavigating cultural shocks and building social connections abroadThe evolution from international career to parent coaching and personal well-being 🎙️ Guest: Anthi Patrikios A parent coach and educator who has spent nearly three decades living abroad, building a life across Greece, the UK, the Philippines, Kenya, and Uzbekistan. Her perspective is shaped by international moves, deep empathy for families, and a strong belief in freedom, adaptability, and supporting children through change. 🔗 Guest Links Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anthipatrikios/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthi-patrikios/ Website: https://www.anthipatrikios.com/ Check the episodes in video in Youtube 🎥: https://www.youtube.com/@almostlocalstories Follow us on social media 📲: https://www.instagram.com/almostlocalstories ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@almostlocalstories ⁠https://www.facebook.com/almostlocalstories 🌎✈️ Join our Almost Local Network now and connect with a global community of like-minded adventurers!

    #67 - Why Parenting Abroad Changes Everything with Anthi Patrikios

  7. Jul 20

    #66 - Relocation Reality: From Digital Nomad to Portugal Innovator with Scott Kirk

    This episode delves into the real insides of living, adapting, and thriving abroad. Scott Kirk shares his unconventional journey from a tech background to helping others with their international moves—highlighting the psychological and cultural aspects of settling in Portugal and beyond. In this episode: How moving abroad is about more than geography—it's about identity and safetyThe mindset shifts involved in becoming a digital nomad before the term existedThe importance of community and cultural integration when relocatingPractical insights on navigating Portugal's bureaucracy and cost of livingThe evolving definition of "home" through a life of constant changeHow sports, local customs, and language shape integrationThe strategic approach to choosing where and how to live based on lifestyle needsScott’s transformation from a tech entrepreneur to a relocation facilitatorKey tips for a smooth transition and avoiding common pitfalls 🎙️ Guest: Scott Kirk A relocation expert and Portugal integration guide, and a former digital nomad turned community-builder. 🔗 Guest Links Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/movingtoportugal2.0 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/74495967/ Website: https://www.visas.pt/ Check the episodes in video in Youtube 🎥: https://www.youtube.com/@almostlocalstories Follow us on social media 📲: https://www.instagram.com/almostlocalstories ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@almostlocalstories ⁠https://www.facebook.com/almostlocalstories 🌎✈️ Join our Almost Local Network now and connect with a global community of like-minded adventurers!

    #66 - Relocation Reality: From Digital Nomad to Portugal Innovator with Scott Kirk

  8. Jul 13

    #65 - The Truth About Belonging When You Live Abroad with Willa Goodfellow

    This episode explores the transformative journey of Willa Goodfellow as she navigates life across Costa Rica and Ireland, revealing how culture, community, and identity intertwine in foreign lands. Her story offers valuable insights into adapting to new environments, building community, and embracing change with curiosity and humour. Key topics: Willa's background, from Colorado to Costa Rica to Ireland, and what drove her travelsHow living in diverse environments influences creativity and writingThe role of community, local customs, and the bar life in Costa Rica in shaping her experiencePractical insights on integrating into small towns and rural communities abroadThe impact of cultural and language differences on social life and forming local relationshipsManaging identity shifts, cultural adjustments, and the routines of living between two worldsThe significance of faith and religion in forming community and local engagementExperiences as a lesbian couple abroad: acceptance, challenges, and the evolving landscapePractical tips for newcomers: finding housing, participating in local life, and navigating bureaucracyReflections on the best and worst aspects of life in Costa Rica and IrelandWilla's co-authored books, blending humour, personal stories, and cultural insights 🎙️ Guest: Willa Goodfellow An Episcopal priest and author who has lived across Colorado, Costa Rica, and Ireland. She’s a curious storyteller who writes about community, identity, and the humour of living abroad. 🔗 Guest Links Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/willagoodfellow/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WillaGoodfellowAuthor Substack: https://willagoodfellow.substack.com/ Website: https://willagoodfellow.com/ Check the episodes in video in Youtube 🎥: https://www.youtube.com/@almostlocalstories Follow us on social media 📲: https://www.instagram.com/almostlocalstories ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@almostlocalstories ⁠https://www.facebook.com/almostlocalstories 🌎✈️ Join our Almost Local Network now and connect with a global community of like-minded adventurers!

    #65 - The Truth About Belonging When You Live Abroad with Willa Goodfellow
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About

Almost Local is a podcast about the honest, human side of building a life somewhere new. Hosted by Marc Alcobé, the show goes beyond visas, moving checklists, and picture-perfect foreigner stories to explore what it really means to live abroad. Through thoughtful conversations with people around the world, Almost Local looks at belonging, identity, culture shock, loneliness, community, and the slow process of turning an unfamiliar place into something that feels like home. These are stories of living between cultures, redefining where you’re from, and discovering who you become when life takes you elsewhere. Whether you’re already living abroad, planning a move, or simply curious about life in another country, Almost Local is a space for reflection, connection, and real experiences beyond borders. New episodes every two weeks on Mondays, featuring personal stories from around the world, shared with honesty, depth, and nuance.

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