Nisha shares how her identity as a Jamaican woman fuels her work, and how her decision to pursue a PhD became a direct response to the limiting narratives placed on immigrants in American schools. We talk about the quiet pressure migrant women feel to prove their value, the fatigue of constant adaptation, and the emotional cost of rebuilding identity in spaces where anti‑immigrant and anti‑Black narratives still sit in the background of everyday life.

She also takes us home to Jamaica—its mountains, riverbanks, wood‑fire cooking, music, and mangoes—and reminds us how home stays alive through taste, sound, and small rituals that steady us when loneliness creeps in or when the grief of the old self shows up unexpectedly.

This episode is for any woman navigating competence loss, language shame, identity whiplash, and the slow, uneven work of belonging in a new country.

Part two continues next week.

Ever felt overwhelmed after moving abroad? This episode gives you the missing manual. Host Yolanda Reshemah breaks down two essential skills every immigrant, expat, and migrant woman needs:

• Learning the hidden rulebook of your new culture and;
• Using curiosity and optimism as practical survival tools.

You’ll walk away with five clear, actionable strategies to help you feel more grounded, more capable, and more at home in the place you’re rebuilding your life.

As the woman who has relocated six times, host Yolanda shares her tools learned the hard way ... through life, not from books and theories.

She first moved at age 10, then as a teen, a young professional, a wife and most recently as a mother.

On Wednesdays guest conversations bring you lived experiences from a community of women who know where you are and how you feel.

If this episode gives you something real, follow the show and share it with one woman who needs this today.

This conversation with writer and storyteller Yuliya Patasy is an unusual exploration of what it means to arrive somewhere new — physically, emotionally, culturally, and generationally.

Yuliya immigrated to San Francisco as a child, landing in a converted garage apartment packed with grandparents, great‑grandparents, aunts, uncles, and the weight of her parents’ hopes. Her early memories of life in a country that no longer exists are vivid: “I’ll never forget what it was like to live with 12 people in an apartment [ in the Soviet] sharing a bathroom.”

She shares the pressure her parents felt to “turn things around quickly,” the loss of professional identity, and the disorientation of entering a system where the rules — social, cultural, bureaucratic — were entirely different. She also speaks candidly about the humor and heartbreak of childhood expectations, like the moment she realized Barbie was not life‑size: “I was like, this? No. I hate this.”

We talk about belonging, language loss, and the tension between honoring the culture you came from and raising children who are fully rooted in the place you now call home. Yuliya reflects on her memoir, which began as a simple recipe collection and became a deeper excavation of family, memory, and identity. And she offers grounded wisdom for families stepping off a plane today, carrying their hopes in a suitcase: “There are good people everywhere… building relationships is really the path to feeling at home.”

If you want more tools, stories, and honest conversations about building a life abroad, follow the show. Each episode gives you something real you can use and someone real you can relate to.

In this solo episode, I talk honestly about the emotional work women do when they uproot their lives, often without a title, paycheck, or community to hold them. 

I share the tools that helped me feel lighter - dealing with one big emotion at a time, rebuilding identity in small steps, and giving yourself permission to "faff around" and be un-serious in a life that often feels heavy. 

If you've ever felt invisible, overwhelmed, or permanently on duty after moving abroad, this episode officially reminds you that you're not the only one living through the immigrant experience: the opportunities, challenges and being heard.  You're allowed to feel good and have some levity. Often.

Leave a comment. Share your rituals for adding lightness in your life

https://www.instagram.com/placeswecallhomepod

Writer and storyteller Yuliya Patsay joins us to explore the emotional work of immigration, belonging, and identity — from her childhood arrival in San Francisco as a refugee from what was then the USSR, to the life she’s built today.

She shares the reality of childhood immigration — the disorienting impact of an abundance of resources, diversity, culture shock, and the courage it takes to rebuild your identity when you don't understand the language, rituals and experience.

We talk about the pressure her parents felt to “turn things around quickly,” the loss of professional identity, and of entering a system where the rules — social, cultural, bureaucratic — were entirely different. She also speaks candidly about the humor and heartbreak of childhood expectations, like the moment she realized Barbie was not life‑size: “I was like, this? No. I hate this.”

Her story resonates with immigrant women, expat families, and anyone who has ever called another country home.

Follow the show for more stories about migration, identity, and belonging — and the quiet, powerful work of creating a life in a new country.

Yulia (rhymes with Goo-lia) Patsay is a writer and comedian navigating American life with Soviet programming. She is the author of the memoir Until the Last Pickle and creator of the Substack Buckle Up Bubelah.

This episode shares three practical lessons for migrant women who are working hard to build a new life in the United States.

These lessons come from my conversation with Janet Xu in episode #67, who moved from China with $300 in her pocket and rebuilt her life through persistence, community, and a clear sense of identity.

You’ll get three takeaways that help you stay grounded during the hardest parts of relocation:

• Stay rooted in who you are.
  Keep your heritage, your goals, and your ambition close. They help you stay steady while you adjust to a new country.

1. Don't mute your voice, you accent and your culture.
   Your background is a strength. It supports you as you find your place and build confidence.
2. Expect hard work — inside and out.
   The external work matters, but so does the internal work: managing loneliness, homesickness, and pressure.

Hear what’s possible when you stay committed to your path and trust your judgment.

Share your takeaway with guests and host: email: guest@theplaceswecallhome.com.

Most women exploring life abroad feel overwhelmed by cultural shifts, language barriers, and the fear of losing themselves—until you hear Janet Zhu’s story.

Janet shares raw, live stories of her journey—from the initial excitement, loneliness and identity shifts to creating a life that honors both her Chinese heritage and American dreams.

What you get:

• Hear how embracing your culture fuels your confidence,
• How to cultivate community through service, and
• Why financial independence is crucial for women abroad.

  Her journey reminds you that success is about achievement and also about being at peace with who you are—regardless of where you came from.

Listen now, share it with women who need a little reminder, and follow the show for more real conversations about life abroad.

Feeling lost after moving abroad? This episode names the quiet grief women carry when you immigrate-homesickness, language shame, identity wobble, and the pressure to make the move "worth it". Karen - a professional organizer from Israel shares how she rebuilt in the U.S. in her 40s: making friends from zero, helping her kids learn a new language, reopening her career, and adapting to culture without erasing herself.

You'll leave with simple ways to protect your energy, communicate with confidence and release the feelings in your body.

Listen now and start creating the life you moved for-- one small win at a time.

Visit San Koran cafe

If this resonates leave a 5‑star review. I really helps us know how to support you.

If you’re an expat or immigrant woman navigating homesickness, isolation, microaggressions, shrinking to fit in, or feeling invisible, this conversation will help you name what’s happening and decide what you need next.

We talk about:

• the quiet ways you start shrinking to stay accepted
• feeling depleted after every interaction
• performing gratitude instead of being honest
• the emotional cost of staying in rooms that don’t see you
• how to choose spaces that let you be present, not disappear

I also share a personal story from my own life in the U.S. — a moment when I stayed in a difficult space, why I made that choice, and what I learned about belonging, boundaries, and self‑trust.

I also share a personal story from my own life in the U.S. — a moment when I stayed in a difficult space, why I made that choice, and what I learned about belonging, boundaries, and self‑trust.

This episode is for the woman abroad who keeps asking:
“Do I matter here? Can I belong here and still be myself?”

If this speaks to you, follow The Places We Call Home on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, and leave a 5‑star review so I know these conversations are meeting you where you are.

In this conversation you'll look through the eyes of guest Monica Hyang-sil Chang. Hear what’s actually possible for you, even if right now you feel disconnected, unsure of yourself, or guilty for not loving your new life yet.

You’ll hear the emotional truths we don’t say out loud: the grief attached to leaving home, the pressure to “be grateful,” the loneliness that surprises you, and the identity shifts that happen when you build a life around someone else’s roots.

We explore:

• why moving abroad for love brings its own kind of homesickness
• the isolation that shows up when you don’t have your own community
• how to rebuild confidence and identity in a new country
• what it looks like to create belonging from scratch, and
• the possibilities that open when you stop blaming yourself for struggling

If this is your reality, remember that you’re in that process of figuring it out, you're allowed to be tender, messy, and brave. You're not behind, you’re not failing, and you’re not alone.

If this resonates, follow The Places We Call Home on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, and leave a 5‑star review so we know these conversations are supporting you.

In this episode, I sit down with Zainab Ugokwe — scientist, mom, wife — a woman whose story will feel familiar if you’ve ever tried to rebuild your identity in a new country.

Zainab talks about returning to the U.S. after spending her childhood in Palestine, navigating homesickness, cultural differences, and the quiet grief of absent relatives in Palestine, and in the USA. She shares what it was like to grow up as the only Black girl in a town that had never seen people who looked like her, and how those early experiences shaped her confidence as an adult.

We explore:

• what imposter syndrome looks like for expat and immigrant women
• the identity shifts that happen when you move abroad
• the loneliness of feeling “in‑between” cultures
• how to rebuild confidence when you don’t feel like yourself anymore
• the emotional work of belonging in a place that wasn’t part of your original story

If you’re an expat or immigrant woman living in the USA or anywhere abroad — navigating loneliness, cultural differences, or that unsettling feeling of not belonging here or back home — this conversation will meet you right where you are.

Zainab’s reflections offer gentle reminders and practical takeaways about finding your voice again, trusting who you’re becoming, and giving yourself permission to grow into this new version of you.

If this episode resonates, follow The Places We Call Home on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, and share it with another woman who’s starting over in a new country.

Hands up if you want to stay stuck in a job you hate, with dreams unfulfilled! 

No soul wants that. We want to succeed. We want adventure, to be seen, heard, felt. We want purpose, love. And most of all, we want to be remembered. 

I'm sitting down with guest and new friend, Samira Kawar, who left Jordan when there were no universities, and political unrest in neighboring countries cut short a bright, ambitious girl's vision. 

Her connections brought her to the USA but it was her talents and tenacity that took this expat woman to palaces.  

Press play for wisdom and insight. 

• Hear how education and integrity can change your destiny
• For a life with no regrets, choose passion over practicality. 

Here is a podcast about courage—the courage to transform your life and to tell your own story. Here, we dive into the journeys of expat / immigrant women who've left their countries of origin for adventure or the American dream. Together, we explore the ache of homesickness, the challenge of cultural differences, and the search for identity—while sharing practical tips and inspiring success stories. This isn't just about living overseas. It's about finding resilience, purpose, and belonging. It's creating a home wherever you are. This is your space to learn, connect, and gather tools to navigate the emotional cost of building a life in the USA.

https://www.instagram.com/placeswecallhomepod

Feeling lost, lonely, or disconnected after moving abroad?

Yolanda sits down with Samira Kawar—a trailblazing immigrant woman from Jordan who arrived in the U.S. in 1968 and built a life of legacy, leadership, and belonging.

If you’re an expat woman navigating homesickness, culture shock, or isolation, this episode offers more than validation—it offers a blueprint. 

You’ll learn how to use education as a tool for empowerment, how to build meaningful community, and how to shift your mindset from survival to self-actualization.

Tune in to discover what it takes to feel rooted in a new culture

https://www.instagram.com/placeswecallhomepod

Moving to the United States as an expat or immigrant woman is one of the bravest decisions you will ever make — but 

It rarely feels brave in the moment. Whether you’re still deciding if you should move, you’ve just landed, or you’re already here and wrestling with homesickness, culture shock, and doubt, this episode is your reminder that courage often looks like discomfort, uncertainty, and taking one shaky step at a time.

In this episode, I share why it’s so important to celebrate the act of moving abroad — not the polished version, but the real beginning. The messy beginning. The “what on earth am I doing?” beginning.
 I talk about my own journey too: leaving England at 18 to travel alone for the first time, the promise I made to myself to live without regrets, and how that early act of courage shaped every move I’ve made since — including relocating to the U.S. and now back to England with my family.

You’ll hear why expat and immigrant women are extraordinary, why discomfort is part of the process (not a sign you made a mistake), and how your first bold step becomes the foundation for everything you build in America.

This episode will help you:

• Reframe your discomfort as part of your transformation
• Recognize your courage in simply showing up
• Celebrate your bold beginnings
• Understand why making friends in the U.S. is hard — and what to do about it
• Feel less alone in your expat/immigrant journey

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, lonely, or unsure of how to make friends in the U.S., I want you to know this: you are not behind, and you are not alone. You are becoming.
 You will surprise yourself with your resilience. You will look back and say, “I did that.”   And you will grow into a version of yourself you haven’t even met yet.

Listen now and remind yourself why you started. And when you’re ready, head over to Episode 1 — where you’ll hear how one expat American’s dream unraveled into bankruptcy and legal battles, and how one authentic friend helped him through it all.

Start downloading and get to know every character and their story.

https://www.instagram.com/placeswecallhomepod

re you an expat woman struggling to make real friendships in America, feeling out of place, or wondering if you need to change who you are just to belong?

Dasha moved to the USA from Russia for love. She landed in Lubbock, Texas. In this episode, she shares her journey from small-town rejection to finding meaningful connections in San Francisco. Her story shows that the expat experience touches all of us—no matter where we come from. What matters most is having the strategies and tools to work through it.

You’ll discover:

• How cultural expectations in the U.S. shape friendship-building—and why intentionality matters more here than anywhere else
• Why therapy can be a critical tool for navigating identity loss, culture shock, and the emotional cost of starting over

Press play to discover the mindset shifts and practical insights every expat woman needs to create community, connection, and a true sense of home in the United States.

Share your own migration story or feedback: guest@Theplaceswecallhome.com

Here is a podcast about courage—the courage to transform your life and to tell your own story. Here, we dive into the journeys of expat / immigrant women who've left their countries of origin for adventure or the American dream. Together, we explore the ache of homesickness, the challenge of cultural differences, and the search for identity—while sharing practical tips and inspiring success stories. This isn't just about living overseas. It's about finding resilience, purpose, and belonging. It's creating a home wherever you are. This is your space to learn, connect, and gather tools to navigate the emotional cost of building a life in the USA.

https://www.instagram.com/placeswecallhomepod

What if everything you were taught to believe about your future—your identity, your limits, your worth—was wrong?

In this jaw-dropping episode, we go deep with Zainab—a Palestinian-African American woman whose life began with shaved identity, cultural rejection, and racial isolation in a village outside Jerusalem. 

She faced every reason to stay small. Instead, she rewrote her story. This isn’t just a comeback tale—it’s a masterclass in radical self-belief. Whether you're an immigrant, a single parent, or someone quietly doubting their worth, this episode is your wake-up call.

• You’ll hear how Zainab escaped generational expectations to build a bold new life from scratch—on her own terms.
• You’ll learn how she went from being told “you don’t belong” to earning advanced science degrees and owning her space in elite academic institutions.
• You’ll feel the fire of someone who faced impossible odds—and used them as fuel to rise, thrive, and inspire.

To share your own migration story or feedback email  guest@Theplaceswecallhome.com 

This compelling podcast dives into Expat and immigrant women (and men) stories. Those who immigrate to the USA, tackling the struggles of homesickness, identity crisis, and culture shock in the USA while adjusting to expat life and navigating cultural differences. Through conversations on starting over, reinventing yourself, and finding purpose, it highlights success stories of women's tenacity, and the resilience of expats in the USA. It offers insights into bicultural identity, language barriers, and the challenges of living overseas. The podcast emphasizes the importance of a strong support system and wellbeing for women in pursuit of the American dream.

https://www.instagram.com/placeswecallhomepod

Have you ever tried so hard to fit in somewhere new that you forgot who you actually are?

This funny, entertaining, authentic life story resonates with anyone who's ever struggled to adapt to a new culture without losing themselves in the process. 

In this episode you'll discover:

• Fitting in doesn't require becoming somebody else
• Adapting to life in the USA doesn't mean erasing yourself
• Rebuilding a life abroad often starts with knowing who you are

A reflective episode with entrepreneur Amy Denebeim-Dean, co owner of Crown And Crumpet Tea House in San Francisco. Hear how this Oxford-educated American immersed herself in the English upper-middle-class society, what she has observed about acculturation and imitation, and why every woman immigrating to a new country must take note.

Hit play to explore the real cost of fitting in and discover how to root yourself deeply—no matter where life takes you.

To share your own migration story or  give your feedback, email  guest@Theplaceswecallhome.com 

This compelling podcast dives into Expat and immigrant women (and men) stories. Those who immigrate to the USA, tackling the struggles of homesickness, identity crisis, and culture shock in the USA while adjusting to expat life and navigating cultural differences. Through conversations on starting over, reinventing yourself, and finding purpose, it highlights success stories of women's tenacity, and the resilience of expats in the USA. It offers insights into bicultural identity, language barriers, and the challenges of living overseas. The podcast emphasizes the importance of a strong support system and wellbeing for women in pursuit of the American dream. 

Fortnam And Mason, afternoon tea, Crown And Crumpet

https://www.instagram.com/placeswecallhomepod

What if the only things you had when moving abroad were courage and a calling? 

Here is a deeply personal and powerful episode. Yolanda reconnects with Robynne Jeisman, episode #15, who who left Australia to follow her calling to the USA. With faith and a vision, she built a new life and launched a nonprofit serving trafficked and homeless youths in California. 

In this episode you'll discover 

• How self-kindness helped Robynne recover from burnout, and stay grounded while building something greater than herself.
• Take away practical insight on how small acts of rest and self-care—like margin days and comfort rituals—can keep you resilient, handle your homesickness, and connected to who you are in a foreign land.

To share your own migration story, or  feedback email  guest@Theplaceswecallhome.com 

This compelling podcast delves into Expat and immigrant stories of those who immigrate to the USA, tackling the struggles of homesickness, identity crisis, and culture shock in the USA while adjusting to expat life and navigating cultural differences. Through conversations on starting over, reinventing yourself, and finding purpose, it highlights success stories of women empowerment and the resilience of expats in the USA, offering insights into bicultural identity, language barriers, and the challenges of living overseas. It emphasizes the importance of a strong support system and mental health for women in pursuit of the American dream.

https://www.instagram.com/placeswecallhomepod

Do you ever feel like you’re living two lives—one back home, and one here?

If you’re an expat or immigrant woman in the U.S. grappling with cultural adjustment, identity shifts, or the quietness of starting over, this episode speaks straight to your heart. 

In this episode Sophie unpacks the emotional rollercoaster of leaving home, reshaping identity, and finding a sense of belonging in a place where nothing feels familiar.

In this episode you'll discover:

• What no one tells you about the emotional transition of immigration, and why feeling “caught between cultures” is more common than you think.
• Hear how Sophie navigated the pressures of adapting to a new culture without losing her authentic self—and how she learned to build meaningful community in a foreign land.
•  Gain inspiration from her candid reflections on motherhood, entrepreneurship, and the silent courage it takes to create a new life abroad, even when you feel unprepared. 

Download now to hear lived experiences from people like you who have overcome challenges of international relocation.

To share your own migration story or feedback email  guest@Theplaceswecallhome.com 

This compelling podcast dives into Expat and immigrant women (and men) stories. Those who immigrate to the USA, tackling the struggles of homesickness, identity crisis, and culture shock in the USA while adjusting to expat life and navigating cultural differences. Through conversations on starting over, reinventing yourself, and finding purpose, it highlights success stories of women's tenacity, and the resilience of expats in the USA. It offers insights into bicultural identity, language barriers, and the challenges of living overseas. The podcast emphasizes the importance of a strong support system and wellbeing for women in pursuit of the American dream.

https://www.instagram.com/placeswecallhomepod

What does it take to rebuild your entire life — not once, but twice?

 In this episode, Yini shares her extraordinary journey from the imperial city of Huế, Vietnam to San Jose, California, carrying with her a family history marked by privilege, loss, survival, and relentless resilience. 

Her story begins in a world shaped by war, communist imprisonment, and the collapse of everything her family once had — and it unfolds into a powerful immigrant narrative of grit, gratitude, and generational courage.

Yini grew up in Huế, a place rich with history but marked by hardship. Her father, once a respected lieutenant in the South Vietnamese army, lost everything when the communists took over — his home, his wealth, his status, and his freedom. He survived years in a brutal prison camp, refusing to leave until every man in his unit was released.
Those stories shaped Yini’s understanding of loyalty, sacrifice, and what it means to start from zero.

Yini’s story reminds us that:

• You can come from nothing and still rise
• You can learn a new language from scratch and excel
• You can honor your parents’ sacrifices through your own success
• You can carry the weight of your past and still build a future you’re proud of

When her family arrived in America in 1992, they carried almost nothing with them — just a few clothes, a few gold bars, and the determination to rebuild. Her parents worked tirelessly: her mother as a babysitter, her father at a car wash under the California sun. And it was seeing her father work that one day changed everything for her. That moment lit a fire in her — a promise that she would work hard enough to give him the rest he deserved.

This episode is for anyone who has ever started over in the United States, Asia, Europe ... anywhere, and wondered if they were strong enough to make it.

From failing every class in Vietnam to earning straight A’s in America, from being underestimated to proving everyone wrong, Yini shows what happens when resilience meets opportunity.

Her journey is a testament to the immigrant spirit — the grit, the heartbreak, the hustle, and the deep love that fuels it all.

Listen now to hear a powerful story of survival, reinvention, and the kind of courage that gets passed down through generations.
 And when you’re done, explore more immigrant stories on the podcast — stories of expat women, global families, and the emotional work of building a new home in the USA.

https://www.instagram.com/placeswecallhomepod

What if one phone call forced you to choose between your safety and the life you built — with no time to say goodbye?

In this powerful episode, “Karen” shares the moment everything changed. A domestic situation in Honduras pushed her into an impossible decision: stay and risk her life, or leave behind her family, her home, her career, and the identity she had spent years building. What followed was a journey marked by fear, courage, and the quiet determination to survive.

Now a U.S. citizen and an advocate for early childhood education, Karen opens up about the emotional cost of starting over — the loneliness, the culture shock, the invisibility — and the resilience it took to rebuild a life from the ground up.

Her story is a reminder that immigration is never just paperwork or geography. It’s grief, courage, identity, and the long road toward belonging.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• How Karen navigated the isolation, uncertainty, and cultural disorientation that so many immigrants face in their first years abroad
• The moment she stopped trying to “fit in” and began standing confidently in who she is
• Why representation in early childhood education matters — and how she’s creating visibility for children who rarely see themselves reflected
• The emotional truth of leaving home for safety, and the strength it takes to rebuild your sense of worth

Download now to hear a deeply honest story about courage, culture, and claiming your place in the world — exactly as you are.

To share your own migration story or send feedback, email: guest@theplaceswecallhome.com

This compelling podcast dives into Expat and immigrant women (and men) stories. Those who immigrate to the USA, tackling the struggles of homesickness, identity crisis, and culture shock in the USA while adjusting to expat life and navigating cultural differences. Through conversations on starting over, reinventing yourself, and finding purpose, it highlights success stories of women's tenacity, and the resilience of expats in the USA. It offers insights into bicultural identity, language barriers, and the challenges of living overseas. The podcast emphasizes the importance of a strong support system and wellbeing for women in pursuit of the American dream.

AI image.

https://www.instagram.com/placeswecallhomepod

Ever felt like your accent, your words—or the lack of them—make people underestimate everything you’ve worked for?

For many expat women, the challenge isn’t just learning English—it’s being understood as the expert you already are. This episode explores the invisible weight language barriers place on brilliant professionals and how it can quietly chip away at your confidence, credibility, and career growth. 

Today you'll discover: 

• Why mastering your professional language—not just conversational English—is key to rebuilding your authority.
• How everyday language wins can add up to long-term confidence and success.
• How surrounding yourself with the right community helps you reclaim your voice and visibility—on your own terms

Hit play now for a perspective on more clarity, confidence, and impact—so your brilliance isn’t lost in translation 

To share your own migration story, or  feedback email  guest@Theplaceswecallhome.com 

This compelling podcast dives into Expat and immigrant women (and men) stories. Those who immigrate to the USA, tackling the struggles of homesickness, identity crisis, and culture shock in the USA while adjusting to expat life and navigating cultural differences. Through conversations on starting over, reinventing yourself, and finding purpose, it highlights success stories of women's tenacity, and the resilience of expats in the USA. It offers insights into bicultural identity, language barriers, and the challenges of living overseas. The podcast emphasizes the importance of a strong support system and wellbeing for women in pursuit of the American dream.

https://www.instagram.com/placeswecallhomepod

You’re not only one—and there’s hope!

Moving to a new country can feel lonely—but you don’t have to do it alone. In this episode, we’re diving into how expat and immigrant women can build real, meaningful friendships in the USA. From embracing vulnerability to finding your community, discover simple ways to turn strangers into your new circle of support.

In this episode you'll discover how to: 

• Be open to different types of friendships
• Give yourself grace and time
• Embrace vulnerability and stay true to yourself—the right friends will appreciate your culture, quirks, and story.

Download now to hear lived experiences from people like you who have overcome challenges of international relocation.

To share your own migration story, or  feedback email  guest@Theplaceswecallhome.com 

This compelling podcast dives into Expat and immigrant women (and men) stories. Those who immigrate to the USA, tackling the struggles of homesickness, identity crisis, and culture shock in the USA while adjusting to expat life and navigating cultural differences. Through conversations on starting over, reinventing yourself, and finding purpose, it highlights success stories of women's tenacity, and the resilience of expats in the USA. It offers insights into bicultural identity, language barriers, and the challenges of living overseas. The podcast emphasizes the importance of a strong support system and wellbeing for women in pursuit of the American dream.

https://www.instagram.com/placeswecallhomepod

I talk about:
the mix of belonging, homesickness, and loneliness that comes with expat life
what it feels like to raise kids between cultures
the version of you that’s waiting on the other side of this transition

You don’t have to have it all sorted. You’re allowed to be new. You’re allowed to grow slowly. And you’re not doing this alone.

Follow the show and leave a quick , positive review. It helps more women find these conversations when they need them most.

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Feeling the dread of holiday loneliness because you live abroad? 

Host Yolanda is being honest. The holidays bring a much needed moment of rest, togetherness, community, fun and festive food. But if you live abroad without family and you haven't built your tribe yet, it can be a mess. 

The season that’s supposed to bring joy can instead spotlight what you're missing.

Pay attention, expat / immigrant friends. Don't poo-poo these practical ideas to create connection. Soak up the encouragement, get past loneliness this holiday. Remember, next year doesn't have to look or feel the same.

Hit the Play button, for-

• Ways to blend old traditions with new ones so the holidays feel comforting, not foreign
• Why small rituals create big feelings of connection and belonging
• How to turn loneliness into opportunity through simple acts of kindness

Here is a podcast about courage—the courage to transform your life and to tell your own story. Here, we dive into the journeys of expat / immigrant women who've left their countries of origin for adventure or the American dream. Together, we explore the ache of homesickness, the challenge of cultural differences, and the search for identity—while sharing practical tips and inspiring success stories. This isn't just about living overseas. It's about finding resilience, purpose, and belonging. It's creating a home wherever you are. This is your space to learn, connect, and gather tools to navigate the emotional cost of building a life in the USA.

https://www.instagram.com/placeswecallhomepod

Feeling homesick after moving to the USA?
You’re not alone—and you don’t have to figure it all out by yourself. 

In this Friday episode host Yolanda Reshemah shares three powerful ways expat women can use the wisdom of others to feel grounded, connected, and at home again.

Whether you’ve just arrived or have been living abroad for years, this conversation will help you:

• Learn from other expat women’s stories so you can avoid common mistakes and settle faster.
• Turn shared experiences into guidance for building a fulfilling life in a new country.
• Practice grace and respect—two essential tools for navigating culture shock and finding belonging.

Every challenge you’re facing—homesickness, loneliness, or starting over from scratch—has already been lived and overcome by others who’ve walked the same path. Their stories can become your roadmap.

Listen now to discover how the power of shared wisdom can transform your expat journey and help you finally feel at home in the USA.

To share your own migration story or feedback email  guest@Theplaceswecallhome.com 

This compelling podcast dives into Expat and immigrant women (and men) stories. Those who immigrate to the USA, tackling the struggles of homesickness, identity crisis, and culture shock in the USA while adjusting to expat life and navigating cultural differences. Through conversations on starting over, reinventing yourself, and finding purpose, it highlights success stories of women's tenacity, and the resilience of expats in the USA. It offers insights into bicultural identity, language barriers, and the challenges of living overseas. The podcast emphasizes the importance of a strong support system and wellbeing for women in pursuit of the American dream.

https://www.instagram.com/placeswecallhomepod

What does it really take to start over in a new country, and raise the next generation with courage and hope—while breaking free from the molds others try to place on you? 

This episode is for every expat and immigrant woman struggling with identity, belonging—the emotional impact of relocating—and wondering how to rise above the challenges.

By tuning in, you’ll learn:

• How to transform setbacks, rejection, and bias into fuel for success.
• Why instilling values of hard work, gratitude, and giving in the next generation creates lasting change.
• The mindset shifts that turn fear into courage and opportunity into action, even in the face of overwhelming odds.

Listen now to hear an unforgettable story that will inspire you to own your path, and create a future beyond limits.

To share your own migration story or feedback email  guest@Theplaceswecallhome.com 

This compelling podcast dives into Expat and immigrant women (and men) stories. Those who immigrate to the USA, tackling the struggles of homesickness, identity crisis, and culture shock in the USA while adjusting to expat life and navigating cultural differences. Through conversations on starting over, reinventing yourself, and finding purpose, it highlights success stories of women's tenacity, and the resilience of expats in the USA. It offers insights into bicultural identity, language barriers, and the challenges of living overseas. The podcast emphasizes the importance of a strong support system and wellbeing for women in pursuit of the American dream. The emotional impact of relocating.

https://www.instagram.com/placeswecallhomepod

To share your own migration story or feedback email  guest@Theplaceswecallhome.com 

This compelling podcast dives into Expat and immigrant women (and men) stories. Those who immigrate to the USA, tackling the struggles of homesickness, identity crisis, and culture shock in the USA while adjusting to expat life and navigating cultural differences. Through conversations on starting over, reinventing yourself, and finding purpose, it highlights success stories of women's tenacity, and the resilience of expats in the USA. It offers insights into bicultural identity, language barriers, and the challenges of living overseas. The podcast emphasizes the importance of a strong support system and wellbeing for women in pursuit of the American dream.

https://www.instagram.com/placeswecallhomepod

Feeling like you don’t belong yet? 

In this heartfelt episode, Yolanda Reshemah and guest Karen Giva share the truth about starting over abroad—why belonging takes time, how healing helps, and what every expat woman can do to truly feel at home in a new country. 

You'll learn why vulnerability matters, how to rebuild community, and what it really takes to feel at home in a new country—no matter where you are in your journey.

 Press play. Uncover the truth about belonging abroad.

To share your own migration story or feedback email  guest@Theplaceswecallhome.com 

This compelling podcast dives into Expat and immigrant women (and men) stories. Those who immigrate to the USA, tackling the struggles of homesickness, identity crisis, and culture shock in the USA while adjusting to expat life and navigating cultural differences. Through conversations on starting over, reinventing yourself, and finding purpose, it highlights success stories of women's tenacity, and the resilience of expats in the USA. It offers insights into bicultural identity, language barriers, and the challenges of living overseas. The podcast emphasizes the importance of a strong support system and wellbeing for women in pursuit of the American dream.

https://www.instagram.com/placeswecallhomepod

This episode is a love letter to bold women who lead with story, stand out on purpose, and use cultural confidence as their superpower.

In Part 2 of this heartwarming and hilariously honest conversation, Yolanda and Amy continue exploring identity, entrepreneurship, and authenticity across borders.  Amy shows that embracing your cultural quirks and leading with your truth isn’t just freeing—it’s magnetic. 

Amy shares how her love of tea turned into a thriving U.S. business, what it's like to hold multiple cultural truths, and why fitting in is not the goal. 

Press play now to learn how to stop shrinking and start showing up boldly—your accent, your roots, and your power fully intact. 

To share your own migration story or  give your feedback, email  guest@Theplaceswecallhome.com 

This compelling podcast dives into Expat and immigrant women (and men) stories. Those who immigrate to the USA, tackling the struggles of homesickness, identity crisis, and culture shock in the USA while adjusting to expat life and navigating cultural differences. Through conversations on starting over, reinventing yourself, and finding purpose, it highlights success stories of women's tenacity, and the resilience of expats in the USA. It offers insights into bicultural identity, language barriers, and the challenges of living overseas. The podcast emphasizes the importance of a strong support system and wellbeing for women in pursuit of the American dream. 

https://www.instagram.com/placeswecallhomepod

What's one mindset shift that will help any expat woman let go of the past and truly thrive in the USA?

If you’ve relocated to the USA, you know it’s more than just unpacking suitcases. It’s about navigating cultural differences, finding your footing in a new land, and deciding who you want to be now. In this episode, we revisit a powerful conversation with Theo, a German expat whose journey from California to China, through bankruptcy and back, reveals what it truly means to start over without regret.

• Discover the liberating mindset shift that stops you from obsessing over what could have been.

Press play now to learn how to let go of the past, embrace your present, and create a life you love in the USA — no matter where you’ve come from or what you’ve been through.

To share your own migration story or feedback email  guest@Theplaceswecallhome.com 

This compelling podcast dives into Expat and immigrant women (and men) stories. Those who immigrate to the USA, tackling the struggles of homesickness, identity crisis, and culture shock in the USA while adjusting to expat life and navigating cultural differences. Through conversations on starting over, reinventing yourself, and finding purpose, it highlights success stories of women's tenacity, and the resilience of expats in the USA. It offers insights into bicultural identity, language barriers, and the challenges of living overseas. The podcast emphasizes the importance of a strong support system and wellbeing for women in pursuit of the American dream.

https://www.instagram.com/placeswecallhomepod

Discover three emotional tools to help you feel grounded, confident, and emotionally safe while adjusting to life in a new country.

Are you feeling disoriented, emotionally drained, or unsure of who you are since moving abroad? 

You’re not alone. This episode breaks down the real difference between culture shock and homesickness—and why understanding both is key to emotional resilience. 

You’ll learn three powerful tools to help you feel grounded, confident, and emotionally safe in your new home. Whether you’re navigating identity loss, loneliness, or the quiet ache of starting over, this episode offers clarity, comfort, and a path forward.

Press play to learn these practical strategies to handle homesickness and thrive in your new home away from home.

To share your own migration story or feedback email  guest@Theplaceswecallhome.com 

This compelling podcast dives into Expat and immigrant women (and men) stories. Those who immigrate to the USA, tackling the struggles of homesickness, identity crisis, and culture shock in the USA while adjusting to expat life and navigating cultural differences. Through conversations on starting over, reinventing yourself, and finding purpose, it highlights success stories of women's tenacity, and the resilience of expats in the USA. It offers insights into bicultural identity, language barriers, and the challenges of living overseas. The podcast emphasizes the importance of a strong support system and wellbeing for women in pursuit of the American dream.

https://www.instagram.com/placeswecallhomepod

What if the emotional pain of starting over in America could become the beginning of your personal transformation?

Follow Daria’s journey from the heart of post-Soviet Russia to the wide plains of Texas and the diverse streets of San Francisco. Through love, faith, and the complex realities of being a Russian immigrant in today’s world, she shares the raw, unfiltered truth of navigating identity, community, and what she loves about life in America. 

Whether you’re an expat, immigrant, or simply searching for belonging, her story will resonate deeply.

By listening, you’ll discover:

• Hard-won lessons about long-distance love, cultural adaptation, and the courage to build a life in a new country.
• Why finding the right community—and sometimes the right city—is essential for emotional and cultural survival.
• How embracing repentance, humility, and personal responsibility can lead to healing, reconciliation, and inner peace as an immigrant.

Press play now to hear an unforgettable story of resilience, faith, and transformation that will inspire you to own your journey, wherever it leads.

To share your own migration story or feedback email  guest@Theplaceswecallhome.com 

This compelling podcast dives into Expat and immigrant women (and men) stories. Those who immigrate to the USA, tackling the struggles of homesickness, identity crisis, and culture shock in the USA while adjusting to expat life and navigating cultural differences. Through conversations on starting over, reinventing yourself, and finding purpose, it highlights success stories of women's tenacity, and the resilience of expats in the USA. It offers insights into bicultural identity, language barriers, and the challenges of living overseas. The podcast emphasizes the importance of a strong support system and wellbeing for women in pursuit of the American dream.

https://www.instagram.com/placeswecallhomepod

What does it do to a person when the place you’re from becomes a source of grief — and the place you’ve moved to asks you to become someone you're not?

In this episode, Darsha, a Russian immigrant , opens up about repentance, identity, motherhood, and the quiet emotional work of starting over in the United States. She talks honestly about carrying the weight of her country’s actions, the loneliness of rebuilding from scratch, and the humility that comes with losing status and finding your footing again.

Her story is tender, layered, and deeply human — the kind of immigrant journey we rarely hear out loud. If you’ve ever felt caught between cultures, unsure of where “home” is, or exhausted by the emotional labor of belonging, this conversation will sit with you in a real way.

This episode touches on faith, therapy, culture shock, diaspora identity, and the long road toward feeling rooted in a new country. It’s a reminder that starting over isn’t just logistics — it’s spiritual, emotional, and deeply personal.

This compelling podcast dives into Expat and immigrant women (and men) stories. Those who immigrate to the USA, tackling the struggles of homesickness, identity crisis, and culture shock in the USA while adjusting to expat life and navigating cultural differences. Through conversations on starting over, reinventing yourself, and finding purpose, it highlights success stories of women's tenacity, and the resilience of expats in the USA. It offers insights into bicultural identity, language barriers, and the challenges of living overseas. The podcast emphasizes the importance of a strong support system and wellbeing for women in pursuit of the American dream.

https://www.instagram.com/placeswecallhomepod

Have you ever felt a quiet longing to start over abroad… only to talk yourself out of it with fear, doubt, or “what if I fail?”

Before you pack a suitcase or book a one-way flight, there’s an emotional battle happening inside—and you’re not alone. In this heartfelt episode, Yolanda Reshemah pulls back the curtain on the most common fears that hold expat women back. Whether it’s fear of not being safe, not being strong enough, or not being ready, she names what so many of us feel—but rarely say out loud.

• In this episode you'll learn how to replace self-doubt with clarity, courage, and a plan that empowers you to finally say yes to your move abroad. 

Listen now to reclaim your courage, quiet the noise of doubt, and take one powerful step toward the life you’ve quietly dreamed about.

In this episode, you’ll uncover the hidden fears quietly holding you back—and learn how to replace self-doubt with clarity, courage, and a plan that empowers you to finally say yes to your move.

This heartfelt podcast explores the journey of expats and immigrant women chasing the American Dream, navigating cultural differences, overcoming homesickness, and striving to create a home away from home in the USA. Fears keeping you from moving abroad. Signs you're ready to move abroad. Is it safe to move to the USA.

https://www.instagram.com/placeswecallhomepod

If you're a woman navigating a new country, especially the USA, and struggling with cultural differences, questioning your identity and if you belong, this episode offers you real tools to help you rebuild, reconnect, and rise. 

Learn how to overcome homesickness, rediscover your voice, and take bold action - even when you don't feel ready. Perfect for immigrant and expat women facing psychological transition.

Inside this raw and powerful conversation, you'll uncover:

• How to reclaim your identity when the world keeps trying to shrink you into a label.
• The truth about confidence: why waiting to feel “ready” is a lie — and what to do instead.
• How to find healing in the smallest circle of support, even if you feel utterly alone right now.

🎧 Listen now to gather the strength, tools, and courage to rebuild — not just survive — your life in a new land.

To share your own migration story or feedback email  guest@Theplaceswecallhome.com 

This compelling podcast dives into Expat and immigrant women (and men) stories. Those who immigrate to the USA, tackling the struggles of homesickness, identity crisis, and culture shock in the USA while adjusting to expat life and navigating cultural differences. Through conversations on starting over, reinventing yourself, and finding purpose, it highlights success stories of women's tenacity, and the resilience of expats in the USA. It offers insights into bicultural identity, language barriers, and the challenges of living overseas. The podcast emphasizes the importance of a strong support system and wellbeing for women in pursuit of the American dream.

https://www.instagram.com/placeswecallhomepod

Can you truly belong somewhere new—or does belonging have to be built from the ground up?

If you’ve ever felt out of place after moving to a new country—or questioned if home is even a location—this episode is for you. 

Robynne Jeisman shares her raw, faith-rooted journey from Australia to the U.S., revealing how culture shock, loneliness, and the unknown shaped her into someone stronger, more compassionate, and more anchored in purpose. 

Her story will resonate with anyone navigating identity, community, or the emotional complexity of starting over.

In this episode you will discover:

• How purpose—not certainty—can steady your path in unfamiliar places
• The hard-won truth about building authentic friendships and community from scratch
• What it really means to belong to two places—and why you don’t have to choose just one

Hit play to hear honest insights on faith, resilience, and the deeper meaning of belonging in a life that spans two continents.

To share your own migration story, or  feedback email  guest@Theplaceswecallhome.com 

This compelling podcast dives into Expat and immigrant women (and men) stories. Those who immigrate to the USA, tackling the struggles of homesickness, identity crisis, and culture shock in the USA while adjusting to expat life and navigating cultural differences. Through conversations on starting over, reinventing yourself, and finding purpose, it highlights success stories of women's tenacity, and the resilience of expats in the USA. It offers insights into bicultural identity, language barriers, and the challenges of living overseas. The podcast emphasizes the importance of a strong support system and wellbeing for women in pursuit of the American dream.

https://www.instagram.com/placeswecallhomepod

How to protect your identity, set boundaries, and create meaningful traditions when creating a new life in the USA.

You’re not imagining it. For expat / immigrant women in the USA, the holidays often bring a unique mix of homesickness, cultural pressure, and the quiet fear of not belonging.

This episode takes an honest look at what women like us are really experiencing: the overwhelm, the financial expectations, the social scripts, and the emotional weight of navigating American holiday culture while trying to build a life that still feels like our own.

By the end of this episode, you’ll have:

• Practical strategies for setting boundaries without guilt
• Simple scripts for saying “I can’t afford that this year”
• Tips for replacing volume with depth in your celebrations
• A way to protect your identity when you fear being seen as “no fun”
• A framework for belonging that isn’t built on comparison or compliance

Question for you

What’s one tradition you decided to opt out of this year, and one tradition you redesigned to fit your life in the USA? Share your story with our community. Your choices help other immigrant and expat women feel seen, supported, and less alone.

If this episode resonates with you, share it with a friend who’s navigating her own journey of starting over in the USA.

Here is a podcast about courage—the courage to transform your life and to tell your own story. Here, we dive into the journeys of expat / immigrant women who've left their countries of origin for adventure or the American dream. Together, we explore the ache of homesickness, the challenge of cultural differences, and the search for identity—while sharing practical tips and inspiring success stories. This isn't just about living overseas. It's about finding resilience, purpose, and belonging. It's creating a home wherever you are. This is your space to learn, connect, and gather tools to navigate the emotional cost of building a life in the USA.

https://www.instagram.com/placeswecallhomepod

Why does starting over hurt so much when you move abroad? 

Dive into the emotional truth behind relocation and how expat women can turn that pain into personal growth, confidence, and belonging.

If you’ve ever relocated, battled homesickness, or struggled to find your place in a new culture, this episode speaks directly to you. 

Drawing insights from the 2024 Global Expat Survey, host Yolanda reveals how expat women in the USA and around the world can transform the challenges of cultural adaptation, identity shifts, and relocation stress into opportunities for reinvention and leadership.

you’ll learn:

• The real reason starting over abroad hurts — and why that pain means you’re growing.
• How expat women find purpose, joy, and belonging after moving overseas.
• Why relocation is not a loss, but a portal to empowerment and legacy-building.

 Download now.

To share your own migration story or feedback email  guest@Theplaceswecallhome.com 

This compelling podcast dives into Expat and immigrant women (and men) stories. Those who immigrate to the USA, tackling the struggles of homesickness, identity crisis, and culture shock in the USA while adjusting to expat life and navigating cultural differences. Through conversations on starting over, reinventing yourself, and finding purpose, it highlights success stories of women's tenacity, and the resilience of expats in the USA. It offers insights into bicultural identity, language barriers, and the challenges of living overseas. The podcast emphasizes the importance of a strong support system and wellbeing for women in pursuit of the American dream.

https://www.instagram.com/placeswecallhomepod

How do you avoid isolation and create connection, community, and belonging during the Christmas holidays?

The holidays can be a season of joy but for immigrant and expat women, it can feel like an extra layer of homesickness and longing. In this episode, we explore how to transform that loneliness into connection by blending traditions from back home with new rituals that feel authentic to where you are now.

 Our guest today is Manuelita Antonio Rangel Sosa. She is a Venezuelan-American artist, architect, and designer, living in California. 

You'll takeaway:

• Practical ideas for creating fellowship and intimacy, even in small gatherings
• Encouragement to design holidays that reflect your needs
• Why holidays can trigger homesickness for immigrant and expat women  

You’ll hear stories of festive celebrations, creative ways to honor cultural roots, and how to transform—even if you’re far from family. Together, we’ll uncover how to design holidays that are less about recreating the past and more about creating belonging in the present.

Whether you’re navigating your first Christmas abroad or have spent decades away from your homeland, this conversation offers warmth, inspiration, and tools to help you feel less alone and more connected this holiday season.

Here is a podcast about courage—the courage to transform your life and to tell your own story. Here, we dive into the journeys of expat / immigrant women who've left their countries of origin for adventure or the American dream. Together, we explore the ache of homesickness, the challenge of cultural differences, and the search for identity—while sharing practical tips and inspiring success stories. This isn't just about living overseas. It's about finding resilience, purpose, and belonging. It's creating a home wherever you are. This is your space to learn, connect, and gather tools to navigate the emotional cost of building a life in the USA.

https://www.instagram.com/placeswecallhomepod

What if the person who pursued you with love, and talked of a life together in America turned out to be the one holding you captive?

"Camilla" shares her powerful journey from Brazil to the U.S.—a journey filled with hope, love, betrayal, and survival. 

"Camilla" reveals the shocking truth of what happened after she left her home country for marriage, only to face lies, manipulation, and years of control and abuse in a foreign land. If you’re an immigrant woman, a survivor, or anyone rebuilding life after trauma, her story sheds light on the hidden struggles behind closed doors—and the strength it takes to reclaim your freedom.

In this episode you'll discover:

• How "Camilla" used courage, patience, and strategy to escape an abusive marriage while raising two children in a country where she felt isolated and unseen.
• Learn how she navigated legal challenges, language barriers, and betrayal to secure her independence and protect her family.
• Be inspired by her message of hope, healing, and the unbreakable will to build a better future, no matter how impossible it seems.

Download this gripping and inspiring story—and find strength, solidarity, and hope in the power of survival and starting over.

To share your own migration story or feedback email  guest@Theplaceswecallhome.com 

This compelling podcast dives into Expat and immigrant women (and men) stories. Those who immigrate to the USA, tackling the struggles of homesickness, identity crisis, and culture shock in the USA while adjusting to expat life and navigating cultural differences. Through conversations on starting over, reinventing yourself, and finding purpose, it highlights success stories of women's tenacity, and the resilience of expats in the USA. It offers insights into bicultural identity, language barriers, and the challenges of living overseas. The podcast emphasizes the importance of a strong support system and wellbeing for women in pursuit of the American dream.

AI image

https://www.instagram.com/placeswecallhomepod

Ever wondered what it really takes to uproot your life, move across the world for love, and start over in America? 

If you’re relocating to the USA—or already living here as an expat—you’ve likely felt the sting of loneliness, cultural missteps, and the struggle to find real connection.

This episode is a moment from Dasha’s story,#13. Tune in now to hear why friendships don’t form as easily in the U.S., and how you can create a sense of belonging without giving up your cultural identity.

To share your own migration story or feedback email  guest@Theplaceswecallhome.com 

This compelling podcast dives into Expat and immigrant women (and men) stories. Those who immigrate to the USA, tackling the struggles of homesickness, identity crisis, and culture shock in the USA while adjusting to expat life and navigating cultural differences. Through conversations on starting over, reinventing yourself, and finding purpose, it highlights success stories of women's tenacity, and the resilience of expats in the USA. It offers insights into bicultural identity, language barriers, and the challenges of living overseas. The podcast emphasizes the importance of a strong support system and wellbeing for women in pursuit of the American dream.

https://www.instagram.com/placeswecallhomepod

In this episode, you’ll hear Ghirmay’s journey — a true immigrant story of arriving in the USA with no English, no family, and no way to return home. Eighteen years later, he has built a life through resilience, homesickness, loneliness, fear, and pure determination.

This is the unglamorous side of life in the USA:
washing dishes, attending ESL classes, navigating culture shock, and slowly shaping a new identity far from where your story began. It’s the slow victories, the setbacks, the pride, and the psychological weight of moving abroad alone.

If you’ve ever felt like you were beginning again — in a new country or in a new chapter of your life — his story will stay with you.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

• building a life from scratch when nothing is handed to you
• living with the uncertainty of not knowing if you’ll ever go back home
• finding identity, stability, and belonging far from where your story began

Follow the show for weekly episodes about moving abroad, expat life, homesickness, belonging, and the tools and stories that help you find your voice as an expat woman.

What happens when you leave everything familiar behind—your language, career, and connections—to start over in a new country as an adult?

Starting over in a new country isn’t just about paperwork and logistics—it’s an emotional journey of rebuilding friendships, identity, and purpose. If you’re an expat or immigrant woman navigating the deep psychological challenges of leaving everything familiar behind, this heartfelt conversation is for you.

In this episode you'll discover:

• Firsthand insights on the biggest challenge migrants face in America—and why it’s more than just finding a job.
• How purpose, entrepreneurship, and volunteering can help bridge the gap between isolation and belonging.
• Real insights of navigating identity, ambition, and loneliness while carving out a new life in a foreign land.

Listen to this episode to discover empowering strategies and heartfelt reflections on how to rebuild connection, community, and purpose as a migrant or expat in America.

To share your own migration story or feedback email  guest@Theplaceswecallhome.com 

This compelling podcast dives into Expat and immigrant women (and men) stories. Those who immigrate to the USA, tackling the struggles of homesickness, identity crisis, and culture shock in the USA while adjusting to expat life and navigating cultural differences. Through conversations on starting over, reinventing yourself, and finding purpose, it highlights success stories of women's tenacity, and the resilience of expats in the USA. It offers insights into bicultural identity, language barriers, and the challenges of living overseas. The podcast emphasizes the importance of a strong support system and wellbeing for women in pursuit of the American dream.

https://www.instagram.com/placeswecallhomepod

I’m sharing ten simple, comforting ideas that worked for me and can help you create a holiday season in the USA that feels truly yours.

I talk about:
finding community without the overwhelm
• how to opt out gracefully
• planning for triggers like homesickness

I hope this episode gives you a few ideas — and a little comfort.

What does “home” even mean when you’ve lived in more than one place, switched languages, and had to rebuild your life from scratch more times than you can count?

In this week’s conversation, Suzanne — a British expat who’s lived in Italy and now the USA — opens up about the messy, beautiful, emotional parts of migration. We talk about identity, belonging, raising kids far from family, and that quiet ache you feel when you miss a place that used to be yours.

If you’ve ever felt torn between countries, cultures, or versions of yourself, you’ll feel right at home here.

We talk about:

• Living between cultures
  How moving from the U.K. to Italy to America shaped Suzanne’s identity — and why she doesn’t feel the need to choose just one home.
• Finding your people abroad
  The real talk on loneliness, community, and how to build friendships when you’re starting over in a new country.
• Holding onto your roots
  The foods, languages, memories, and tiny rituals that keep you connected to where you’re from.
• Thriving as an expat woman
  Why contentment, adaptability, and celebrating small joys matter when you’re navigating culture shock, homesickness, and identity shifts.

Press play for an honest, gentle reminder that you’re allowed to belong to more than one place — and more than one version of yourself.

If you’d like to share your own migration story or send feedback, email guest@theplaceswecallhome.com.

The podcast for expat and immigrant women in the USA, who are navigating homesickness, identity shifts, culture shock, and the emotional work of starting over. Through real conversations with women from around the world, we talk about belonging, rebuilding community, raising bicultural kids, language barriers, and what it means to create home when your heart lives in more than one place.

https://www.instagram.com/placeswecallhomepod

What does Christmas look like when your life stretches across many countries?

If you’re an expat or immigrant woman navigating the holidays in the USA, this episode offers something deeper than tips—it offers recognition.

You’ll hear the mix of nostalgia, joy, longing, and connection that comes with celebrating Christmas far from home.

You’ll come away with:

•  A reminder that home isn’t lost — it’s carried with you,  recreated, and reimagined 
• Permission to let your traditions evolve as your life evolves 
• Inspiration to honor the rituals that matter most — whether they’re from childhood or newly created in the USA

This is a story that reminds you that your version of Christmas is valid, beautiful, and uniquely yours.

Leave a comment on your relocation journey.

Here is a podcast about courage—the courage to transform your life and to tell your own story. Here, we dive into the journeys of expat / immigrant women who've left their countries of origin for adventure or the American dream. Together, we explore the ache of homesickness, the challenge of cultural differences, and the search for identity—while sharing practical tips and inspiring success stories. This isn't just about living overseas. It's about finding resilience, purpose, and belonging. It's creating a home wherever you are. This is your space to learn, connect, and gather tools to navigate the emotional cost of building a life in the USA.

https://www.instagram.com/placeswecallhomepod

Have you created your dream expat life abroad?

Life as an expat is no joke! Moving to the USA can mean new opportunities, growth, and the inevitable personal changes for the better. For you. 

Here is why you should not expect to walk in the front door to find the same attitudes that wished you well years ago. The new version of you is critiqued, the old version still expected. And then there's the guilt of having achieved more.

If you're in a season of feeling like you're stuck between worlds, you don't quite fit anywhere, this episode is for you.

Host Yolanda revisits her chat with business woman Amy Denebeam-Dean, a California native who successfully build a life among the British upper-classes for more than a decade, only to leave it all behind to find her California roots. Amy shares gems on living authentically, finding opportunities, and belonging somewhere.

Download this lively, outspoken chat on coming back to your home of origin.

Leave a comment on your relocation journey.

Here is a podcast about courage—the courage to transform your life and to tell your own story. Here, we dive into the journeys of expat / immigrant women who've left their countries of origin for adventure or the American dream. Together, we explore the ache of homesickness, the challenge of cultural differences, and the search for identity—while sharing practical tips and inspiring success stories. This isn't just about living overseas. It's about finding resilience, purpose, and belonging. It's creating a home wherever you are. This is your space to learn, connect, and gather tools to navigate the emotional cost of building a life in the USA.

https://www.instagram.com/placeswecallhomepod

Have you immigrated away from your home, feeling foreign and a little lost?

The first months abroad can feel like a whirlwind—joy, then the crash, then the ache of missing home. 

In this episode, host Yolanda revisits her interview with guest Dr. Veronique Elefant—Yani, Clinical Psychologist, and creator of 3D Human Therapy®. 

You will get:

• Gentle ways to steady yourself: journaling, presence, and letting go of the pressure to “fit in”, and  
• Holistic perspectives on resilience, belonging, and emotional wellbeing

Dr. Veronique has been supporting expats, families, and individuals worldwide for more than 25 years. Her work helps people move beyond labels, connect with themselves, and find balance in the midst of change.  

https://psychologyexperts.online/about/ For more of Dr. Veronique and 3D Human Therapy®

Hit the PLAY button. Discover the perfect solutions for expat women, international students, and anyone learning to belong in a new country.

Here is a podcast about courage—the courage to transform your life and to tell your own story. Here, we dive into the journeys of expat / immigrant women who've left their countries of origin for adventure or the American dream. Together, we explore the ache of homesickness, the challenge of cultural differences, and the search for identity—while sharing practical tips and inspiring success stories. This isn't just about living overseas. It's about finding resilience, purpose, and belonging. It's creating a home wherever you are. This is your space to learn, connect, and gather tools to navigate the emotional cost of building a life in the USA.

https://www.instagram.com/placeswecallhomepod

In this episode, I sit down with Anna and Sergey as they share the story of fleeing Russia with only three days’ notice and seeking asylum in the United States. Their journey is raw, emotional, and full of moments that reveal what relocation really feels like when it isn’t a choice but a necessity.

We talk about:

• the emotional shock of leaving everything behind overnight
• how legal migration can still feel unpredictable and unsafe
• the resilience it takes to rebuild a life from scratch after separation.

A reminder that behind every immigration headline is a human being trying to survive, adapt, and hold onto hope.

If this episode opened your eyes to the emotional side of relocation, follow the show and leave a quick review. It helps more women find these conversations when they need them most.

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Learn more about Yolanda:

In this episode, I share the story of a friend who, after twenty years in the USA, realized she was done pushing through corporate pressure, cultural exhaustion, and the constant feeling of being “the different one.” Her decision to return to England wasn’t about giving up — it was about choosing a life that finally matched her values.

I talk about:
the cultural pull that never really goes away
the emotional cost of staying somewhere that no longer fits

I also share a few gentle tips for transitioning home with intention — from planning your timeline to letting go of what no longer belongs in your next chapter.

If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s time to return to your country of origin, this episode will help you listen to the part of you that already knows the answer.

If this episode made you think about your own next chapter, follow the show and leave a quick review. It helps more women find these conversations when they need them most.

Follow on Instagram

How do you rebuild an entire life from zero—no job, no family, no network—after fleeing a country you can never return to?

If you’re an expat woman trying to feel grounded, connected, or at home in the USA, this episode reveals the real emotional, practical, and spiritual challenges that come with starting over—and the one element that makes the transition radically easier.

You are going to discover

• How genuine community can dissolve fear, isolation, and the emotional weight of starting over.
• The powerful mindset shift that helps you integrate faster, build support, and feel like you truly belong.

Press play now to learn how to build the kind of community that transforms survival into belonging and turns your new country into a real home.

Here is a podcast about courage—the courage to transform your life and to tell your own story. Here, we dive into the journeys of expat / immigrant women who've left their countries of origin for adventure or the American dream. Together, we explore the ache of homesickness, the challenge of cultural differences, and the search for identity—while sharing practical tips and inspiring success stories. This isn't just about living overseas. It's about finding resilience, purpose, and belonging. It's creating a home wherever you are. This is your space to learn, connect, and gather tools to navigate the emotional cost of building a life in the USA.

https://www.instagram.com/placeswecallhomepod

When you’ve tried the meetups, the coffee chats, the parent groups, the playground conversations… and still feel unseen

This episode is for every expat and immigrant woman who has ever wondered, “Is it me?”

 It’s not you. It’s the journey.

 This episode will help you:

• Release assumptions about who your friends “should” be
• Recognize red flags and protect your emotional energy
• Cast your net wider with intention
• Stay open to the people who can genuinely feed your spirit
• Understand that friendship is a mutual gift, not something to chase

In this episode, I walk you through the process of redefining friendship on your own terms as an expat woman in America.
You’ll hear how I cast my net wide — church for spiritual nourishment, pro bono work for intellectual stimulation, a post‑grad course for cultural diversity, shared workspaces for unexpected joy.

Each space fed a different part of me. Each one lifted the loneliness a little more.
And slowly, I found my people — beautifully varied in race, origin, language, and spirit. People who weren’t fascinated by my accent or my background, but who were simply interested in a fellow soul.

Listen now if you’re navigating friendship as an expat or immigrant woman in the USA and feeling discouraged.
 

https://www.instagram.com/placeswecallhomepod

Done with shallow interactions or unsure how to build real connection? You’re not alone. 

How do you become part of the  social circle when you keep getting the cold shoulder, where friendship isn’t spontaneous, and emotional safety isn’t guaranteed?

This episode unpacks what’s really behind the struggle—and how to bridge the cultural gap with clarity and courage.

You’ll walk away with three things:

• Key cultural insights into how Americans form adult friendships—and how to use that knowledge to connect more easily
• Simple, actionable ways to meet people through volunteering, routines, and community spaces that feel natural and authentic
• Mindset shifts to help you release self-blame, embrace patience, and build friendships that actually last

Press play for tips and tools to try. 

Share your own migration story or feedback: guest@Theplaceswecallhome.com

Here is a podcast about courage—the courage to transform your life and to tell your own story. Here, we dive into the journeys of expat / immigrant women who've left their countries of origin for adventure or the American dream. Together, we explore the ache of homesickness, the challenge of cultural differences, and the search for identity—while sharing practical tips and inspiring success stories. This isn't just about living overseas. It's about finding resilience, purpose, and belonging. It's creating a home wherever you are. This is your space to learn, connect, and gather tools to navigate the emotional cost of building a life in the USA.

https://www.instagram.com/placeswecallhomepod

Wondering where to find the kind of female friendships that actually feed your soul?

You’re not wrong for craving more than surface-level connection. We're talking about loneliness, cultural shifts, and the quiet ache of being unknown in a new country.

Forming meaningful friendships can feel like a second full-time job. 

You’ll walk away with:

• Science-backed reasons why female friendships improve mental health, reduce stress, and protect your wellbeing
• A practical first step to identify the kind of friendship you actually need—so you stop wasting energy on groups that don’t nourish you
• Actionable tips and rituals to start building mutual, vulnerable connections in the USA—based on what’s worked for other expat women

Press play for a mini-roadmap to finding and nurturing female friendships in the USA—so you can feel seen, supported, and less alone.

Here is a podcast about courage—the courage to transform your life and to tell your own story. Here, we dive into the journeys of expat / immigrant women who've left their countries of origin for adventure or the American dream. Together, we explore the ache of homesickness, the challenge of cultural differences, and the search for identity—while sharing practical tips and inspiring success stories. This isn't just about living overseas. It's about finding resilience, purpose, and belonging. It's creating a home wherever you are. This is your space to learn, connect, and gather tools to navigate the emotional cost of building a life in the USA.

https://www.instagram.com/placeswecallhomepod

What if I fail? What if I don’t belong? 

Are these questions keeping you from moving abroad for the life you dream of?

This episode is your expat woman’s masterclass on moving abroad without letting fear win. Host Yolanda shares real experiences and what helped her prepare for a new life in the USA.

If you can’t shake your own fears or answer the “How are you going to make it work?” questions from well-meaning friends, this one is for you.

Press play to uncover the unfiltered truth about forging a new identity as an expat or immigrant—and gain the insights you need to thrive emotionally and mentally in your journey to the U.S.

Email guest@Theplaceswecallhome.com.

Here is a podcast about courage—the courage to transform your life and to tell your own story. Here, we dive into the journeys of expat / immigrant women who've left their countries of origin for adventure or the American dream. Together, we explore the ache of homesickness, the challenge of cultural differences, and the search for identity—while sharing practical tips and inspiring success stories. This isn't just about living overseas. It's about finding resilience, purpose, and belonging. It's creating a home wherever you are. This is your space to learn, connect, and gather tools to navigate the emotional cost of building a life in the USA.

https://www.instagram.com/placeswecallhomepod

Are you an expat woman starting over in the USA—and wondering why this transition feels harder than you expected? 

Relocating abroad isn’t just about visas, moving boxes, and learning English. It’s about navigating homesickness, unspoken cultural codes, rebuilding your career, and figuring out how to belong in a place that doesn’t yet feel like home.

In this heartfelt episode, you’ll hear Karen Geva’s story of moving from Israel to California and discover:

• Why the hardest part of adapting abroad isn’t language—it’s behavior, mindset, and emotional rhythm because cultural difference goes beyond language
• Why home will no longer be the geographical location you left of memories and blood relations
• How Karen rebuilt her career and confidence in midlife, as a foreigner.

Download now to uncover the unfiltered truth about forging a new identity as an expat or immigrant—and gain the insights you need to thrive emotionally and mentally in your journey to the U.S.

To share your own migration story or feedback, email  guest@Theplaceswecallhome.com 

This compelling podcast dives into Expat and immigrant women (and men) stories. Those who immigrate to the USA, tackling the struggles of homesickness, identity crisis, and culture shock in the USA while adjusting to expat life and navigating cultural differences. Through conversations on starting over, reinventing yourself, and finding purpose, it highlights success stories of women's tenacity, and the resilience of expats in the USA. It offers insights into bicultural identity, language barriers, and the challenges of living overseas. The podcast emphasizes the importance of a strong support system and wellbeing for women in pursuit of the American dream.

https://www.instagram.com/placeswecallhomepod

Do you ever wonder why homesickness hits so hard when you’re living abroad—even for things you never cared about back home?

In this episode of Starting Over in the USA, Yolanda Reshemah explores the hidden truth behind homesickness for expat women. From longing for food you rarely ate to missing traditions you barely participated in, this episode dives deep into the emotional side of expat life in the USA. You’ll learn how culture shock and mental health challenges can make us romanticize the past and idealize home, even when we chose to relocate for better opportunities.

• Understand why nostalgia often distorts our memories and makes cultural adjustment harder.
• Gain practical tools to stay grounded and present while navigating homesickness abroad.
• Learn how to reclaim your story so that moving abroad becomes about growth—not regret

To share your own migration story or feedback email  guest@Theplaceswecallhome.com 

This compelling podcast dives into Expat and immigrant women (and men) stories. Those who immigrate to the USA, tackling the struggles of homesickness, identity crisis, and culture shock in the USA while adjusting to expat life and navigating cultural differences. Through conversations on starting over, reinventing yourself, and finding purpose, it highlights success stories of women's tenacity, and the resilience of expats in the USA. It offers insights into bicultural identity, language barriers, and the challenges of living overseas. The podcast emphasizes the importance of a strong support system and wellbeing for women in pursuit of the American dream.

https://www.instagram.com/placeswecallhomepod

 Simple shifts to help you feel grounded and strong in a new country. 

In this episode, Yolanda Reshemah and clinical psychologist Dr. Veronique Ani unpack the hidden emotional challenges expat women face—from homesickness and self-doubt to the constant search for validation. Together, they reveal why true confidence doesn’t come from a new country or a new role, but from trusting yourself.

You’ll learn:

• How to feel grounded, emotionally strong, and truly good in your own skin, no matter where you live.
• Why the need for validation often show up when relocating—and how to break free.
• Practical tools to move from frustration and self-sabotage toward calm and confidence.

Press play to discover how to turn culture shock into confidence and start thriving in your expat journey today.

To share your own migration story or feedback email  guest@Theplaceswecallhome.com 

More from Dr. Veronique:

•  https://psychologyexperts.online/
• Free guide: www.psychologyexperts.online/3dform 

This compelling podcast dives into Expat and immigrant women stories. Those who immigrate to the USA, tackling the struggles of homesickness, identity crisis, and culture shock in the USA while adjusting to expat life and navigating cultural differences. Through conversations on starting over, reinventing yourself, belonging and finding purpose, it highlights success stories of women's tenacity, and the resilience of expat and immigrant experiences in the USA. It offers insights into bicultural identity, language barriers, and the challenges of living overseas. The podcast emphasizes the importance of a strong support system and mental health for personal growth and wellbeing for women in pursuit of the American dream.

https://www.instagram.com/placeswecallhomepod

Have you ever returned home only to realize you no longer feel at home there?

For many expat women, the journey of relocation is full of unexpected emotions—missing one community while trying to rebuild another, questioning identity, and wondering where “home” truly is. This episode dives into that very struggle, showing how the USA can still hold promise despite its imperfections.

The surprising reasons moving back to England left me missing the USA more than expected.

Press play now to uncover a heartfelt perspective on creating home, no matter where life takes you.

To share your own migration story or feedback email  guest@Theplaceswecallhome.com 

This compelling podcast dives into Expat and immigrant women (and men) stories. Those who immigrate to the USA, tackling the struggles of homesickness, identity crisis, and culture shock in the USA while adjusting to expat life and navigating cultural differences. Through conversations on starting over, reinventing yourself, and finding purpose, it highlights success stories of women's tenacity, and the resilience of expats in the USA. It offers insights into bicultural identity, language barriers, and the challenges of living overseas. The podcast emphasizes the importance of a strong support system and wellbeing for women in pursuit of the American dream.

https://www.instagram.com/placeswecallhomepod

What would you sacrifice for love—your career, your culture, your entire community?

Dive into the story of Cristiani, a successful Brazilian entrepreneur who left behind her thriving design business, family, and culture to move to the U.S. for love. Her journey reveals the emotional challenges of starting over in a new country, balancing homesickness, cultural identity, and learning how to merge two very different worlds.

Just hit the play button, discover how to balance grief for what was left behind with the excitement of new opportunities, and why you’re not alone if you’re feeling divided between two worlds. 

This compelling podcast dives into Expat and immigrant women stories, people who immigrate to the USA, tackling the struggles of homesickness, identity crisis, and culture shock while adjusting to expat life and navigating cultural differences. Hear conversations on starting over, reinventing yourself, and finding purpose, it highlights success stories of women's tenacity, and the resilience of immigrants in the USA. It offers insights into bicultural identity, language barriers, and the challenges of living overseas. The podcast emphasizes the importance of a strong support system and wellbeing for women in pursuit of the American dream.

https://www.instagram.com/placeswecallhomepod

Do you need some practical insights on navigating cultural differences, social norms so you can thrive? Have you ever wondered if moving abroad means losing yourself—or finally finding who you really are? 

For many expat and immigrant women, relocation is more than a physical move—it’s an identity shift. This episode explores how navigating cultural differences, reinventing your career, and reshaping your sense of belonging might feel overwhelming yet deeply transformative.

Find the mindset shifts that can help you, practical insights on navigating language, social norms, and cultural differences with confidence so you can thrive in your new home.

To share your own migration story or feedback email  guest@Theplaceswecallhome.com 

This compelling podcast dives into Expat and immigrant women (and men) stories. Those who immigrate to the USA, tackling the struggles of homesickness, identity crisis, and culture shock in the USA while adjusting to expat life and navigating cultural differences. Through conversations on starting over, reinventing yourself, and finding purpose, it highlights success stories of women's tenacity, and the resilience of expats in the USA. It offers insights into bicultural identity, language barriers, and the challenges of living overseas. The podcast emphasizes the importance of a strong support system and wellbeing for women in pursuit of the American dream.

https://www.instagram.com/placeswecallhomepod

Have you ever wondered if the dream of starting fresh in the U.S. is really worth it?

For many expat and immigrant women, the journey to start over in the U.S. begins with hope but often runs headfirst into uncertainty, emotional exhaustion and now shifting policies. 

In this heartfelt episode, Yolanda Reshemah opens up about what the dream really costs—and why so many still choose to keep chasing it.

In this episode you will discover an honest, compassionate reflection on what it really feels like to start over in a new country under challenging circumstances. Learn why emotional resilience is often the key to feeling secure.

Listen now to hear a real, encouraging perspective son what it means to pursue a life you believe in—even when the path feels uncertain. 

To share your own migration story or  share your feedback, email  guest@Theplaceswecallhome.com 

This compelling podcast dives into Expat and immigrant women (and men) stories. Those who immigrate to the USA, tackling the struggles of homesickness, identity crisis, and culture shock in the USA while adjusting to expat life and navigating cultural differences. Through conversations on starting over, reinventing yourself, and finding purpose, it highlights success stories of women's tenacity, and the resilience of expats in the USA. It offers insights into bicultural identity, language barriers, and the challenges of living overseas. The podcast emphasizes the importance of a strong support system and wellbeing for women in pursuit of the American dream.

https://www.instagram.com/placeswecallhomepod

Your origin story is not something to hide—it's the very thing that makes you powerful.

Whether you're struggling to adapt in a new country or wondering if you'll ever feel like you belong, this episode will challenge your thinking and uplift your heart. 

In this episode you'll discover:

•  Your story, your origin is not a weight holding you down. It is a superpower that sets you apart. 
• A mindset shift that turns homesickness and difference into empathy, courage, and strength
•  Why your accent, your story, your journey, none of it needs to be erased

Press play now to reframe your story and unlock the hidden strength in being he different one

To share your own story email  guest@Theplaceswecallhome.com 

This compelling podcast dives into Expat and immigrant women (and men) stories. Those who immigrate to the USA, tackling the struggles of homesickness, identity crisis, and culture shock in the USA while adjusting to expat life and navigating cultural differences. Through conversations on starting over, reinventing yourself, and finding purpose, it highlights success stories of women's tenacity, and the resilience of expats in the USA. It offers insights into bicultural identity, language barriers, and the challenges of living overseas. The podcast emphasizes the importance of a strong support system and wellbeing for women in pursuit of the American dream.

https://www.instagram.com/placeswecallhomepod

Have you ever wondered what it really takes—emotionally and mentally—to build a new life in the U.S. as an immigrant? 

In this raw and inspiring conversation, German-born Thilo Christian Stomp shares his journey of leaving his homeland at 15, building a career in audio engineering, and facing deep personal and professional challenges, including bankruptcy and threat of prison. For expats and immigrants thinking about moving to the U.S., this episode sheds light on the unseen psychological hurdles—from identity struggles to cultural adaptation—and how to navigate them with resilience.

In this episode you'll discover:

• How Thilo's early passion for audio shaped his path in a foreign land, despite cultural and professional setbacks.
• Learn how he overcame inner conflicts that many immigrants face while building a life away from home.
• Why failure, loss, and unexpected detours can lead to profound personal transformation—and what it takes to emotionally survive them.

Download now to uncover the unfiltered truth about forging a new identity as an expat or immigrant—and gain the insights you need to thrive emotionally and mentally in your journey to the U.S.

To share your own migration story or feedback email  guest@Theplaceswecallhome.com 

This compelling podcast dives into Expat and immigrant women (and men) stories. Those who immigrate to the USA, tackling the struggles of homesickness, identity crisis, and culture shock in the USA while adjusting to expat life and navigating cultural differences. Through conversations on starting over, reinventing yourself, and finding purpose, it highlights success stories of women's tenacity, and the resilience of expats in the USA. It offers insights into bicultural identity, language barriers, and the challenges of living overseas. The podcast emphasizes the importance of a strong support system and wellbeing for women in pursuit of the American dream.

https://www.instagram.com/placeswecallhomepod

How do you start a start over in the USA without a plan?

In this powerful conversation, Helen Ruan shares how the Chinese culture shaped her mindset for abundance, financial independence, and a smooth transition to life in the USA. She opens up about achieving her American dream, why culture shock was never an obstacle, and the challenges of raising American-born children with deep Chinese roots. Get ready for real, raw insights on cultural identity, resilience, and reinventing yourself abroad. 

Download now to hear this unforgettable story of forging a life built on the American dream.

To share your own migration story or feedback email  guest@Theplaceswecallhome.com 

This compelling podcast dives into Expat and immigrant women (and men) stories. Those who immigrate to the USA, tackling the struggles of homesickness, identity crisis, and culture shock in the USA while adjusting to expat life and navigating cultural differences. Through conversations on starting over, reinventing yourself, and finding purpose, it highlights success stories of women's tenacity, and the resilience of expats in the USA. It offers insights into bicultural identity, language barriers, and the challenges of living overseas. The podcast emphasizes the importance of a strong support system and wellbeing for women in pursuit of the American dream.

https://www.instagram.com/placeswecallhomepod

Have you ever left everything you’ve built—your career, your culture, your community—for love… and wondered, “How do I start over in a new country?”

Brazilian graphic designer, entrepreneur, and cultural advocate, Cris Diaz, shares her journey of moving to the U.S. for love, leaving behind a thriving business and deep cultural roots in Brazil. 

Cris opens up about the emotional complexities of relocation: the longing for home, the challenge of rebuilding identity, and the quest to merge two worlds without losing yourself.

In this episode you'll discover:

• What it’s really like to leave a life of purpose and success behind—and navigate the grief, hope, and excitement of starting over.
• Learn how to build new connections and community when you feel like a stranger in a strange land.
• Gain insight into how cultural identity, love, and personal reinvention intertwine in the immigrant experience.

Listen to Cris' moving story—and uncover inspiration, solidarity, and strategies for creating a meaningful life abroad while honoring where you came from.

To share your own migration story or feedback email  guest@Theplaceswecallhome.com 

This compelling podcast dives into Expat and immigrant women (and men) stories. Those who immigrate to the USA, tackling the struggles of homesickness, identity crisis, and culture shock in the USA while adjusting to expat life and navigating cultural differences. Through conversations on starting over, reinventing yourself, and finding purpose, it highlights success stories of women's tenacity, and the resilience of expats in the USA. It offers insights into bicultural identity, language barriers, and the challenges of living overseas. The podcast emphasizes the importance of a strong support system and wellbeing for women in pursuit of the American dream.

https://www.instagram.com/placeswecallhomepod

In this episode, I talk about the tension between fitting in and staying true to yourself, the culture shock that hits long after you arrive, and the slow, often invisible process of rebuilding your sense of belonging. These are the parts most “moving abroad” lists never mention — the internal unraveling, the rebuilding, and the becoming.

You’ll walk away with:

• three questions to help you reconnect with the person you’re becoming
• a grounded understanding of how moving abroad reshapes who you are

If you’re planning to move abroad in 2026, already living overseas, or somewhere in the messy middle of starting over, this conversation gives words to the things you’ve felt but haven’t known how to name.

Follow the show and share it with someone navigating their own version of beginning again.

These are the parts no one prepares you for: the sudden loneliness, the unexpected softness, the way your confidence wavers and rebuilds itself. If you’ve ever felt like you “should be handling this better,” this episode will help you understand why you feel the way you do — and why nothing is wrong with you.

We talk about:

• the emotional shock of landing in a new country
• the identity unraveling that happens before you rebuild
• the loneliness that shows up even when you’re “excited”
• how to give yourself permission to grow slowly

This episode is for the woman who moved abroad and suddenly feels like a stranger to herself — the woman who’s trying to make friends, find her footing, and understand who she’s becoming in this new place.

If this resonates, follow The Places We Call Home on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, and share it with someone who’s navigating their own beginning abroad.

In this episode, I talk about the quiet habit that drains your confidence, deepens your homesickness, and makes every part of starting over in a new country feel harder.

It’s something I’ve done myself, especially in my early years in the USA. It shows up in the way you speak, the way you shrink, the way you second‑guess your instincts. And once you see it, you can’t unsee it.

I explore:

• the subtle ways you disconnect from yourself after moving abroad
• why this habit makes loneliness and isolation worse
• how it affects your friendships, your voice, and your sense of belonging
• what changes when you stop performing and start telling the truth
• how to rebuild trust with yourself in a new country

If you’re an expat or immigrant woman navigating homesickness, identity shifts, or the pressure to “fit in,” this episode will help you understand why you feel so stretched — and what it looks like to come back to yourself.

Life abroad is hard enough. You don’t need to carry this extra weight.

If this resonates, follow The Places We Call Home on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, and share it with someone who’s rebuilding their life in a new place.

For Tim Scott, it was one thing: getting back to the woman he loved in Mexico and to the children waiting for him on the other side of the border.

Tim didn’t grow up with safety. He didn’t grow up with stability. He came from an abusive home, left Virginia with almost nothing, and found himself learning a new language, navigating unfamiliar foods, and trying to build community in a place where he had no roadmap. But he kept walking — across states, across borders, across fear — because he had finally found something worth choosing: a Mexican woman who loved him, and the family he never had growing up.

This is not a movie plot. It’s the real story of an American expat who rebuilt his life through courage, grit, and love. It’s about survival, identity, and the determination it takes to start over in a country we're told locals are fleeing from.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• how the Army and relocating helped Tim choose a different future
• the 2,000‑mile journey that reshaped his sense of purpose
• how love, family, and belonging became his compass

This story is for anyone who has ever had to start again — anyone who has crossed borders, rebuilt their identity, or chosen a life that looked nothing like the one they came from.

Follow The Places We Call Home for more true stories about expat life, human spirit, courage, resilience, hope, real love, belonging, immigration, identity, and the emotional work of creating a life in a place that didn’t raise you

In this episode, I talk with Patricia Boes, CEO of Unlimit Me, about what it takes to rebuild identity in a new country. Patricia shares how she found belonging after leaving Australia for the Bay Area, and what helped her feel grounded when everything felt unfamiliar.

We talk about:

• how identity shifts when you start over abroad
• what helps you stay confident through change
• the friendships that shape who you become
• the small moments that make a new place feel like home
  

If you’ve ever felt out of place, unsure of yourself, or caught between who you were and who you’re becoming, this conversation will help you see that transformation as growth, not loss.

Your reviews help other women find these conversations. If you have a moment, I’d love to hear what this episode brought up for you.

Connect with Patricia: https://www.unlimitme.com

Follow the show on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/placeswecallhomepod

Learn more about Yolanda: Meet The Host