Ryan Hellyer

Madeline is originally from Hannover but has lived in Mauritius and the UK (twice) and is now settled in Berlin…for the time being. In this episode, we talk about education options (disappointing parents - temporarily) and working and studying across different countries, cultures, and systems. We also discuss some funny and sad instances of culture shock. And, of course, we laugh about some of the unexpected adventures along the way!

Ryan is originally from New Zealand and has lived in Canada, Norway, and now Berlin! In this episode, we discuss culture shock and unexpected differences, from simple miscommunications, to bureaucratic oddities, to cultural perceptions of respect. We also talk about settling into a new place, the “foreigner bonus”, and finding - or rather creating - our own communities.

Cate is originally from Australia and is married to a Brit (Chris from episode 4). They moved to Germany together, first to Leipzig and then to Berlin. In this episode, we joke about differing cultural viewpoints and talk about how we try to overcome the challenges they present. We also discuss how challenging it can be to start over and how hard it is to ever really be fully prepared but how much you can get out of it and grow when you take the leap and push yourself out of your comfort zone. Never forget, it's good to ask for help!

Chris is originally from the UK and started his international adventure touring with a band. He met his wife (Cate - check out our next episode to meet her!) in Australia before the pair moved to Germany. In this episode, we discuss things that keep us grounded and help us find communities anywhere we go, as well as how this might get harder as we age. We also talk about how our perspectives of countries and cultures change when we spend time in certain places and when we leave again.

Dima is originally from Ukraine and has lived in multiple cities there as well as in Finland and now Germany. In this episode, we talk about some of the difficulties in his home region as well as the ties he has to family there. Dima tells us about how he has benefited from his international life. And we discuss the surprising similarities as well as the exciting (and sometimes frustrating differences) between different cultures.

Hannah is originally from Portland but has spent the majority of her adult life abroad. She has lived across 3 continents and has now settled in Berlin (for the time being). In this episode, we talk about intercultural frustrations and language struggles - as well as the joys of learning a new language. Hannah tells us about the things that she holds on to from her roots no matter where she goes, like nature and traditions. She also shares a new perspective on fear of change - or rather fear of the lack of change. And we discuss the ups and downs of a life lived internationally as well as what actually makes a place home.

Camila is a fashion designer, color expert, and collage Artist, from Colombia. She grew up in Bogota and has spent a lot of time in NY with her sister. Now she’s enjoying Berlin and planning her next adventure in Japan! In this episode we talk about some of the challenges of getting settled in a new country as well as the benefits of living in different places. Camila talks about her connection to her home country and the impact that has on her life and work even while abroad and shares how she stays close to the people she loves even when they are far away.

The podcast about the experience of living internationally! with Elaine Long