Whereabouts Tales | Stories of Belonging and Immigrant Experiences

Paul Puscas | Stories of Belonging and Cultural Exploration
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Whereabouts Tales shares the real stories of immigrant experiences, belonging, and global journeys from expats, returnees, and cultural explorers. I'm diving into life between worlds unpacking identity, transformation, and what it means to belong. Each episode is a conversation about chasing dreams, navigating change, and discovering yourself far from home. Tune in for raw, thoughtful, and inspiring journeys across borders. 🎧 New episodes every 2 weeks | 🌍 Real people. Raw stories. Remarkable paths.

  1. 22H AGO

    "Too Wild": An Instagram Love Story Across Continents

    Welcome to an episode that truly left me speechless and filled with hope! I was absolutely thrilled to sit down with Marc and Alinka, an intercultural family whose journey is unlike any I’ve ever encountered. You might know them as "The Blaschkovs," a fascinating story in itself, as Marc adopted Alinka's unique Slavic family name for their wedding photography business, leading to a memorable start to our chat. (00:21) This couple's origins are as diverse as their adventures. Alinka, from Ukraine, and Marc, born in Ecuador but raised in Texas before returning to South America, found each other across continents in a way that feels like it’s straight out of a movie. They met on Instagram back in 2014 (05:33), when social media was still a nascent world where every like and follow felt significant. Their connection was instant and profound; Marc knew he wanted to marry Alinka within a week of talking. What followed was even more incredible: Alinka bought a one-way ticket to Ecuador just three months later (11:10)! It was a leap of faith built on deep trust, a concept I found incredibly inspiring in today's cynical world. I loved hearing about Alinka’s initial culture shock in Ecuador, from the street food to the bustling public transport. (18:51) After eight years establishing their life there, the war in Ukraine prompted another monumental decision: to move closer to Alinka's family. Their transition to Spain was smoothed by an almost unbelievable stroke of luck – an Instagram friend from Ecuador offered them his house and car in rural Galicia for a month, completely free of charge! (41:40) This act of kindness truly touched me, showcasing the power of genuine connection even across vast distances. But it wasn't all smooth sailing. I was shocked to learn about the immense difficulties they faced finding a permanent apartment in Spain, battling complex rental requirements and the infamous "ocupas" law. (28:10) Yet, their resilience shone through as they literally "sold themselves" to landlords through personal narratives and social media. This conversation was a powerful reminder for me about trust, open-mindedness, and the profound impact of travel on our perspectives. Marc's insights on how traveling cured his own prejudices, and Alinka's perspective on adapting to new cultures, resonated deeply. As a father, hearing their journey gave me immense hope for my son's future – a testament to kindness and connection in a world that often feels divided. If their life were a movie, they'd call it "Too Wild" (1:11:23), and honestly, after hearing their story, I couldn't agree more. Tune in for an episode that will challenge your perceptions and fill you with warmth!

    1h 15m

  2. APR 29

    [Book of Tales] Why Freedom is Exhausting (Sarah Aviram)

    Pre-Order Sarah's Brand New Book, The Scenic Route, right here: 👉 www.thescenicroutebook.com Welcome to Chapter 1 of the Book of Tales, a brand new series from Whereabouts Media. Every other week, we step off the road and into the library to dive deep into the psychology of global living, interviewing authors and dissecting the books that change the way we see the world. We’re told that remote work is the ultimate freedom. But what happens when the "Where" starts to feel like a cage? Today, former Fortune 500 HR leader Sarah Aviram joins us to break down the reality of her "12 countries in 12 months" experiment. We explore the exhaustion of constant change, the "30-day travel limit," and the ultimate question: Who am I when I don't have to be anything or anyone? If you’ve ever felt travel burnout, or wondered why your dream destination feels like your worst workspace, this episode is your roadmap. 📚 The Whereabouts Reading List & Resources: • Pre-Order The Scenic Route: www.thescenicroutebook.com • Read Sarah's First Book (Remotivation): https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09XYZ1234 • Sarah's Website:https://sarahaviram.com 🎧 In This Chapter: - Opening the Book of Tales (New Series Intro) - Leaving a Fortune 500 Career for the Unknown - The 12 Countries in 12 Months Experiment - The Reality of Remote Work & Time Zones - The 30-Day Limit: The Exhaustion of Constant Change - Is Remote Work Actually Fulfilling? - Writing "The Scenic Route" - Travel as a Mirror: Self-Discovery on the Road - Trust, Control, and The Future of Work - Advice for the Aspiring Nomad - Rapid Fire: The Magic of Kyoto & The Kuala Lumpur Burnout - The Whereabouts Media Outro 🌍 About Whereabouts Tales: Produced by Whereabouts Media, we explore the intersection of travel, remote work, and human connection. Hit subscribe so you never miss our "Fresh Tales" from the road or our "Book of Tales" deep-dives. 🎙️ Thinking about starting your own podcast? We use Riverside to record all our global guests in studio quality. Use our affiliate link here to get started:  https://riverside.sjv.io/QYP9A9

    41 min

  3. APR 22

    Culture Shock & New Horizons: A New Yorker in Spain #0062

    In this episode, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Rob Solves America, and I have to admit, it was one of those rare "cold start" conversations that resonated deeply and just flowed naturally from the get-go! I came into this chat knowing little beyond his name, but Rob’s incredible story immediately ignited my native curiosity. Rob takes us on a fascinating personal journey, tracing his roots from growing up in the bustling Bronx, New York City (01:46) – an experience he candidly describes as shaping his self-reliance and understanding of cultural enclaves (02:53) – to his current life in the vibrant city of Barcelona, Catalonia. His observation that New Yorkers are "kind but not nice" (04:19) struck me as particularly insightful. We delve into the catalysts behind his move, which went beyond the astronomical cost of living, including a pivotal work opportunity for his wife that led them to embrace Europe (09:08). His first impressions of Barcelona were nothing short of surreal (33:06), revealing unexpected cultural quirks – from where eggs are stored to the spontaneous local approach to making plans. I was utterly captivated by his newfound obsession with ancient architecture (35:05), seeing buildings with more history than the entire United States! We also explore the stark differences in healthcare systems, a topic I’m deeply passionate about, and Rob’s ongoing commitment as an expat to remain politically active back home (24:38). Rob powerfully articulates how living abroad has profoundly changed him (1:14:08), cultivating a deeper empathy for those learning new languages, a heightened appreciation for community, and a mindful approach to being a respectful guest. My personal key takeaways from our conversation include the immense value of nurturing family connections across distances through simple gestures like postcards (1:01:24), and the liberating effect of overcoming one’s ego when learning to speak a new tongue. We share laughs over his "elite" restaurant Spanish (38:35) and his newfound addiction to fresh baked bread (41:58). Rob offers compelling insights into what Spain genuinely excels at compared to the US – from its immaculate public transportation (1:20:59) to a superior quality of life – and where the US still holds its own, particularly in fostering entrepreneurship (1:23:56). Concluding our chat, Rob answers the pivotal question: given the chance, would he make the move all over again (1:28:01)? His resounding 'yes' perfectly encapsulates the episode's spirit, reminding us that home isn't merely a geographical location, but a cherished feeling (1:29:02). This episode is a rich tapestry of cultural exploration, personal evolution, and the boundless joy of embracing new experiences. You absolutely won’t want to miss it!

    1h 33m

  4. APR 8

    The 25-Year Persuasion: Yvonne's Unconventional Move to Spain

    Hey everyone, Paul here, and I'm still buzzing from my incredible conversation with Yvonne! If you've ever dreamed of leaving your home country for a sunnier, slower pace of life, or even if you just need a serious dose of positivity, then you *have* to listen to this episode. Yvonne's story is truly captivating. Born in Germany, raised in Belgium, she’s lived what she calls a "nomad life" from a young age (03:17). But interestingly, Spain wasn't her first choice; her heart was set on France. We dive into how a freezing winter trip to France, combined with a family dream of opening a B&B, unexpectedly pivoted her and her husband Carsten towards the sunny shores of Andalusia (05:40). I was particularly fascinated by Yvonne's multilingual background, nurtured in a European school, which made the switch from French to Spanish surprisingly smooth (07:07). Her candid reflections on the cultural differences between Germany and Spain are eye-opening. She openly shares her struggles with what she perceives as a German "complaining" culture (12:18), contrasting it with the Spanish approach to life, resilience, and problem-solving, which she attributes, in part, to the legacy of dictatorship. But perhaps the most inspiring part of our chat was Yvonne's experience during the COVID-19 pandemic. When their newly established B&B (opened in 2014) faced complete shutdown for over a year and a half, Yvonne didn't despair. Instead, she embraced it as a "feature, not a bug" (51:19). She used the time to upskill in marketing and, incredibly, found innovative ways to stay connected with her guests through online "Ampero hours" and virtual wine tastings, even during personal tragedies (50:50). Her unwavering positivity and ability to focus on what *can* be done is truly contagious. My key takeaways from Yvonne's story are numerous: the power of adapting, the importance of focusing on what you can influence, and the profound difference between living to work versus working to live (1:05:00). Yvonne beautifully articulated that "home is a feeling" (1:19:41), not just a place, and how prioritizing family and embracing a slower pace has enriched her life in Spain. She also debunks the myth that expat life is all gin and tonics in the sun (1:18:58) – hard work is essential, but it’s about *how* you approach it. Join us for this wonderfully honest, insightful, and incredibly uplifting conversation. Yvonne's journey is a powerful reminder to find joy and opportunity even in the toughest times. You won't regret it!

    1h 23m

  5. MAR 25

    3 Years, 80+ Countries: The Solo Traveler's Journey

    Good evening, or whenever you're tuning in! I'm thrilled to bring you a truly special episode today, one that moves beyond typical expert advice to deliver a profound experience. I recently stumbled upon Carl's story on Reddit, where his 'Ask Me Anything' post captivated me: 'I'm 33, a man, and I traveled the whole world the last three years (85+ countries).' I knew immediately I had to invite him to share his incredible journey. Carl, an Austrian, embarked on a nearly three-year solo adventure. What struck me first was his refreshing honesty about how he afforded it: openly discussing 'privilege,' meticulous saving for over a decade, and clear priorities (06:11). I particularly resonated with his point about understanding the immense privilege of an Austrian passport and the ease of travel we often take for granted (09:25). His journey wasn't just about seeing places; it was about choosing experiences over possessions, giving up his apartment and belongings – a truly frightening leap of faith (14:13). His impulsive travels through South America, Asia, and Central Asia were filled with natural wonders and cultural immersion. He recounts booking a flight to Rio on a whim (16:55), or hiking through Nepal, asking villagers for a place to sleep without prior bookings (38:53). But Carl also sheds light on the often-unspoken realities of long-term travel, including profound loneliness, even when surrounded by people (22:35). The emotional drain of constantly forming and dissolving friendships truly made me think. From Bali’s digital nomad bubble and unexpected culinary delights (48:26) to infrastructure challenges in the Philippines and the overwhelming kindness of strangers in Kazakhstan, Carl encountered it all, often shattering his own prejudices (53:05). A profound takeaway for me was Carl's realization about the 'sweet spot' for travel – not endlessly, but in 4-6 month bursts, to avoid saturation and to allow for re-connection with home. He articulates brilliantly how removing daily distractions creates mental space for introspection and personal growth (1:23:24), leading to a detachment from money and possessions. This episode is a powerful reminder that 'home' isn't just a physical place, but the people and the feeling of belonging (1:40:31). If you've ever dreamt of traveling, or want to understand the deeper human experience behind such an epic journey, this episode is a must-listen. Carl's honesty, vulnerability, and incredible stories offer invaluable lessons on priorities, perspective, and what truly makes us happy. Join me as we explore the world through Carl's eyes, and perhaps find a bit of ourselves along the way.

    1h 45m

  6. MAR 11

    The Spanish Reset | Immigrant Experiences and Cultural Explorers | Trading Routine for Quality of Life - A Returnee's Journey

    In this deeply personal episode, I had the immense pleasure of sitting down with Yibet and Manuel. returnees and cultural explorers, as they trade the American dream for life in Valencia, Spain. Their immigrant experiences honor belonging and transformation from the start. From the outset, I was fascinated by their journey. Yibet and Manuel, originally from Texas and Mexico respectively, built a stable life with four children in the US. They had the big house, successful corporate jobs, and a seemingly ideal existence. But as Yibet shared, (05:43) something was missing – a sense of purpose. This feeling, coupled with their son's football opportunity in London, sparked a drastic decision: to sell everything and move to Europe. Their move wasn't without its challenges, which Yibet recounts with incredible honesty and humor. Imagine moving ten suitcases from the US to Spain, only to realize that (25:31) a typical Spanish taxi won't fit your luggage, or that even a large rental car won't hold both your family *and* your bags! Their apartment hunting was another eye-opener, navigating bureaucracy, multiple dialects, and bewildering "profile" rejections (29:03). As someone who's experienced similar frustrations in Germany, I truly empathized with the feeling of needing "closure" and understanding "why." The culture shocks, especially around personal space and the sacred Spanish siesta, (1:20:56) brought some truly hilarious and relatable moments. A huge takeaway for me was their profound shift in defining "home." For Yibet and Manuel, home is no longer a geographical place but a feeling, wherever family and purpose reside (1:34:04). I was moved by their reflection on gaining "time back" with their younger daughters, valuing presence over convenience. It's a "do-over" they never expected, and it highlights the true cost of the relentless American hustle. We also delved into their remarkable financial journey, inspired by Dave Ramsey, which helped them escape debt and build a foundation for this life-changing move (54:53). Yibet and Manuel’s candidness about their struggles—the fear, the logistical nightmares, the loss of friends who didn't understand their "no's," and even the imposter syndrome in her remote finance career (1:05:06)—makes their story incredibly real. Yet, their joy and conviction in their new life are undeniable. As Manuel simply puts it, their success is "just being here" (1:12:12), staying true to their purpose despite the hardships. This episode is a must-listen for anyone contemplating a big life change, feeling unfulfilled by the status quo, or simply needing inspiration to chase a different kind of happiness. Their journey reminds us that "the ugly truth behind the beautiful photos" is often where the most profound growth happens.

    1h 40m

  7. FEB 25

    Small Town Wisconsin to Seville Sun | A Returnee's Global Journey | Journey Home - Stories of Cultural Explorers and Returnees

    In this episode, I had the absolute pleasure of chatting with Stephanie Jahn, an American expat who traded the snowy landscapes of Wisconsin for the vibrant, sun-drenched streets of Seville, Spain. Our conversation couldn't have started better, diving straight into her unique upbringing in a tiny Wisconsin town with no stoplight and a gas station as the primary grocery store! (01:09) It immediately struck me how different her world was from the bustling metropolis she now calls home. Stephanie's journey to Spain began with a college study abroad semester in Seville, sparking a fascination with Europe's rich history and diverse cultures. I was particularly interested in how she navigated the transition from textbook Spanish to the rapid-fire, often abbreviated Andalusian dialect. We shared a laugh over the common struggles of language learning, from misinterpreting simple phrases like "over there" (22:11) to the sheer frustration of a witty one-liner getting lost in translation before you can even form the words. My personal takeaway? There is "no bigger enemy for learning a new language than your ego" (01:11:00), a sentiment I wholeheartedly agree with from my own German learning experience! Beyond language, Stephanie shared her inspiring story of building a life from scratch. From a fateful Facebook notification that led her to teach English (47:12) to rediscovering her passion for real estate, she’s now a relocation specialist, helping other expats find their footing in Spain. Her "love story" of making her first Spanish friend truly highlights the power of openness and saying "yes" to every opportunity (01:01:16). We also delved into the cultural differences, contrasting the US's 'work to live' mentality with Spain's embrace of slowing down and respecting personal time (01:44:01). Listening to Stephanie, I was reminded that success abroad isn't just about luck, but about hard work, perseverance, and a genuinely positive attitude. Her journey is a testament to embracing the unknown and chasing dreams, even when the path isn't clear. This episode is packed with relatable insights for anyone who has ever considered a move abroad or is simply curious about bridging cultures. It’s a warm, honest, and truly inspiring conversation that I know you’ll enjoy!

    1h 53m

  8. FEB 18

    Parenting and the American Dream - A Journey of Belonging

    In this episode, I finally got to revisit a huge topic I missed last time: the impact of a specific "discovery" and how it shed light on the evolving landscape of modern journalism. I was genuinely surprised and, frankly, a bit disappointed to learn that individuals involved in misleading stories are still active – a stark reminder that the world often isn't fair (00:01). This led us into a fascinating discussion about how journalism has shifted from pure reporting to more of an entertainment medium over the last 30 years (00:37). I was so excited to hear Max talk about his new Substack, where he shares recipes and memories. It perfectly encapsulates our shared belief in the enduring power of long-form content, pushing back against the narrative that nobody has an attention span anymore (01:43). We delved into the beauty of platforms like Substack that allow for deeper dives into ideas, a refreshing change from the usual short, attention-grabbing articles. Max's work with "Food and Community" on social media also really resonated with me. I love the storytelling in his reels (06:59), and it highlights a different way of living – one that prioritizes slowing down, enjoying moments, and genuine social interaction, something I believe we've lost touch with, especially after COVID (07:46). This brought us to a deeper conversation about technology's impact, drawing a powerful parallel between social media and the tobacco industry's early days (09:47), and my growing concern about generational knowledge loss. But what truly inspired me was Max's personal journey from being a "witness" reporting on others' lives to actively "creating" his own. He shared how this led him from a fashion company to making wine, and now to his innovative non-alcoholic drink, GlassRose. This pivot to becoming the protagonist of his own story is incredibly powerful and shows the immense satisfaction that comes from bringing an idea to life (21:54). I particularly admire Max’s "slow way of living" and his philosophy of finding joy in the process (29:23), rather than being consumed by the "grind" culture. His lack of fear of failure and openness to unexpected opportunities, like a simple Facebook message that transformed his life (35:53), is a testament to embracing curiosity. We also touched upon the nuances of raising children in the US compared to Germany, exploring the educational system's flexibility versus standardization (47:39), and the pervasive "pursuit of happiness" in American culture. Finally, we teased our next episode with a discussion about Max’s journey into sobriety and the unexpected inspiration behind GlassRose (1:12:04). My biggest takeaway from this conversation is the profound importance of embracing the journey, finding joy in every step, and daring to create the life you truly want to live.

    1h 25m
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Whereabouts Tales shares the real stories of immigrant experiences, belonging, and global journeys from expats, returnees, and cultural explorers. I'm diving into life between worlds unpacking identity, transformation, and what it means to belong. Each episode is a conversation about chasing dreams, navigating change, and discovering yourself far from home. Tune in for raw, thoughtful, and inspiring journeys across borders. 🎧 New episodes every 2 weeks | 🌍 Real people. Raw stories. Remarkable paths.

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