Эпизоды
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Let’s be real—moving abroad isn’t just a logistics checklist of visas, boxes, and Google Translate tabs. It’s a complete mental overhaul. In today’s episode, I’m breaking down the mindset shifts that absolutely no one warns you about—but trust me, they matter more than your suitcase weight limit.
I’m diving into:
Why the “I can’t” voice in your head needs to be fired immediatelyThe difference between real barriers and just plain fearWhat happens when your perfectionism packs itself in your carry-onWhy blending in doesn’t equal belonging—and how your awkward American accent is actually a superpowerHow asking for help isn’t weakness, it’s strategyAnd why making mistakes abroad isn’t a failure—it’s literally the pointWhether you're in full-blown planning mode or just toying with the idea of living somewhere with better bread and universal healthcare, this episode is your pep talk and reality check rolled into one.
This isn’t about toxic positivity or pretending everything will be perfect (spoiler: it won’t). It’s about preparing your mind to move—so when the visa gets approved, your brain isn’t still freaking out in the corner.
🎧 Grab your headphones and let’s talk mindset, messiness, and making this move work on your terms.
Visa checklist: https://b4wvalhzyq1.typeform.com/to/TAiaGp69
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Sick of endlessly scrolling through job listings that all feel the same? Yeah, same. This week on Abroadly Speaking, I’m spilling the tea on unconventional (but totally legit) ways to land a job abroad without relying on the usual suspects like LinkedIn, Glassdoor, or soul-crushing online applications.
We’re talking about:
Volunteering your way into paid work (yes, really).Seasonal gigs with perks like housing and wine.Work exchanges where your rent = chores.Networking that doesn’t involve awkward cold DMs.Turning that weird hobby into a money-making expat hustle.And even how job fairs might not be the nightmare you remember from college.Whether you're looking for adventure, stability, or just a damn job that pays the bills in euros, pesos, or francs—this episode is packed with ideas to help you break in without breaking down.
👉 Pour yourself a coffee (or wine—no judgment) and hit play. Your new life abroad might start with something way less boring than a cover letter.
Follow me on Instagram (@iammistelle)
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Пропущенные эпизоды?
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In today’s episode, I’m answering the question that’s on everyone’s mind: How much do you really need to move abroad? Spoiler alert: Not as much as you think.
I’ll break down how to live comfortably on a budget while moving abroad, including housing, healthcare, food, and transportation costs. Plus, I’ll share tips on how to adjust your lifestyle to avoid breaking the bank.
If you missed the Don’t Go Broke Abroad challenge, don’t worry—the replays are available until April 15th. Grab them before they’re gone, or catch them when I offer them again!
Remember, it’s all about smart planning and being resourceful—living abroad doesn’t have to be expensive.
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If the government thinks you're just borrowing from your mom to get through the visa process, they’re going to see right through it—and deny your visa. So, let’s talk about proof of funds: what it is, why it matters, and how to make sure you have what you need (without resorting to sketchy money moves).
In this episode of Abroadly Speaking, we’re breaking down:
✔️ What proof of funds is and why some countries require it
✔️ How much money you actually need (hint: it depends!)
✔️ The right way to prepare so you’re not scrambling at the last minute
✔️ What not to do (aka why you shouldn’t ‘borrow’ money just for a bank statement)
✔️ How this all fits into your bigger Move Budget
If you’re serious about moving abroad, you need to know the financial realities of visa applications. I’m here to help you get prepared so that your move isn’t just a dream—it’s a reality.
Join the 'Don't Go Broke Abroad' Challenge! Starting April 1, 2025, this free 3-day challenge will walk you through exactly how to budget for your move abroad—before, during, and after. Sign up now and take the stress out of your finances. Join Here!
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So, you’re ready to move abroad—but you’d prefer not to survive on instant ramen for six months? Fair enough.
In this episode, we’re diving into real ways to cut costs before, during, and after your move—without extreme couponing or moving back into your parents’ basement. We’re covering:
✔️ Visa & paperwork hacks that actually save you money
✔️ The best ways to score cheap flights (hint: forget weekends)
✔️ Smart shipping tricks that won’t drain your bank account
✔️ How to avoid the “Oh $%&!, I’m broke” moment after landing
💡 Bonus: My FREE 3-day “Don’t Go Broke Abroad” Challenge kicks off April 1st! We’ll map out your budget together so you can move abroad without financial regret. Sign up now!
10 Ways to Save on Your Move freebie!
Hit play, take notes, and let’s get you moving abroad without emptying your bank account.
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Don't Go Broke Abroad Challenge: Register HERE
Moving abroad isn’t just about booking a plane ticket and packing a few suitcases. If you’re not prepared for the hidden expenses lurking in the shadows, they’ll devour your budget faster than you can say "visa application fee." In this episode, we’re uncovering the sneaky costs that catch so many expats off guard—documentation fees, visa costs, banking nightmares, short-term housing expenses, and more.
But don’t panic! I’m giving you the inside scoop on how to avoid these budget busters (without having to sell a kidney). Plus, if you’re serious about moving abroad without going broke, don’t miss my Don't Go Broke Abroad challenge kicking off on April 1st, 2025. Details and registration link below!
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Why documentation and legalization fees can feel like legal extortion—and how to cut costs.The real price of visa applications (hint: it’s not just the application fee).How foreign banking fees quietly drain your wallet and what to do instead.The hidden costs of temporary housing (and how to score deals on short-term rentals).Why shipping your entire house abroad might be the worst financial decision you ever make.The shocking reality of double taxation for U.S. citizens (because Uncle Sam never forgets).Join the "Don't Go Broke Abroad" Challenge! Want a clear, stress-free roadmap to budgeting for your move? Join my 3-day Don't Go Broke Abroad challenge, starting April 1st, 2025. We’ll cover: ✔️ The BEFORE Budget: Visa fees, application costs, medical exams, document and translator fees. ✔️ The MOVE Budget: Travel expenses, temporary accommodation, pet relocation costs. ✔️ The AFTER Budget: Taxes, tax treaties, double taxation, and managing retirement accounts.
📍 Sign up here: LINK
Resources Mentioned:
Wise & Revolut for international bankingU.S. State Department for apostille informationExpat Facebook groups for short-term rental deals🎧 Enjoyed this episode?
Subscribe & leave a review on your favorite podcast platform!Screenshot this episode, share it on Instagram, and tag me @iammistelle so I can say hi!Your budget deserves better—let’s make your move abroad as affordable (and stress-free) as possible!
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Looking for a job abroad? Buckle up, because today we're diving into the reality of international job hunting. Forget the myths—just showing up in a new country or assuming your English skills alone will land you a job isn’t the golden ticket you think it is. In this episode, we’ll break down the most common misconceptions about working abroad and give you actionable strategies to actually land a job.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Why “just showing up” in a new country won’t guarantee you a job.The truth about English speakers being in demand abroad.The visa vs. job dilemma and which one you should focus on first.How multinational companies can be your best bet for job sponsorship.Why LinkedIn (used strategically) can be your best friend—but not your only tool.The power of networking and how to do it without being that person who cold DMs strangers.Why taking a lateral move (or even a slight demotion) might be your ticket abroad.Got questions or want to share your job search story? Connect with me on Instagram @iammistelle.
Want to know more about our Career & Professional Life mini-course? Check out all the info here.
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Leaving your pet behind when you move abroad? Yeah, that’s not happening. If you’re a pet parent planning an international move, this episode is for you. I moved abroad in 2013 with two cats (who, at the time, were my only family), so I get how stressful this can be. From breed restrictions to airline fees, microchips to health certificates—there’s a lot to consider when taking your furry friend with you.
In this episode, we’ll cover: ✅ The first steps to take when planning your pet’s move ✅ The ‘paw-sport’ (yes, really) and paperwork they’ll need ✅ Country-specific restrictions (especially for certain dog breeds) ✅ Vaccination, microchipping, and health certificate requirements ✅ Flying with pets—cargo vs. in-cabin and what to expect ✅ Budgeting for pet relocation (because, of course, it’s not cheap) ✅ Housing and finding pet-friendly rentals ✅ What to do once you arrive: vet care, registration, and emergency prep
Resources Mentioned:
📌 My Export & Ship mini-course covers pet relocation in detail, including a step-by-step process for getting your pet abroad without a headache.
📌 Need help figuring out breed restrictions or pet travel rules? DM me on Instagram!
Follow & Connect: 📍 Instagram: @iammistelle 📍 Threads: (Okay, you can’t DM me there, but you can stalk my posts.)
Hit play and let’s get Fluffy ready for their big move!
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Ever dreamed of living abroad but don’t want to risk deportation or, you know, breaking international law? In this episode, I’m breaking down the real, legal ways to move abroad—no fake marriages or under-the-table gigs required.
From freelancer and digital nomad visas to traditional work sponsorships and even golden visas for the bougie among us, I’ll walk you through the options, the loopholes, and what you definitely shouldn’t do unless you want to be on a first-name basis with immigration officials.
So, if you’re ready to pack your bags legally, hit play and let’s talk visas!
Follow me on Instagram
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A lot of people think they have to be fluent in a new language before moving abroad—but is that actually true? In this episode of Abroadly Speaking, I share my own experience moving to a German-speaking region with barely any German, how I learned to navigate daily life, and what truly helped me become fluent over time.
Spoiler alert: You don’t need to be fluent before you go! But you do need the right mindset, strategies, and willingness to immerse yourself.
I’ll cover:
✅ The myth of needing to know the language before you move
✅ How I went from barely speaking German to using it confidently
✅ Practical ways to learn and adapt once you arrive
If fear of the language barrier is holding you back—this episode is for you.
📲 Connect with me:
📍Instagram: @iammistelle
📩 Email: [email protected]
Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a friend who needs to hear it! 🚀
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So many people make the mistake of choosing where to move abroad based on visa requirements alone. But if you're going to uproot your life and start fresh, you want to ensure you’re building a life you actually love. In this episode of Abroadly Speaking, I walk you through the real first step of moving abroad: deciding what kind of life you want to live.
Drawing from her own experiences moving across multiple countries and continents, I share practical insights on how to choose the right place based on your lifestyle, values, and must-haves. From job opportunities and climate preferences to accessibility and outdoor activities, this episode will help you create a framework for making one of the biggest decisions of your life.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Why visa requirements shouldn’t be the first thing you consider when choosing where to live abroadThe key questions to ask yourself about your ideal lifestyle before making a moveHow climate, job availability, and transportation access should factor into your decisionThe importance of a ‘must-have’ and ‘must-not-have’ list when evaluating different countriesA simple yet powerful ranking system to help you compare potential destinationsResources & Links:
ABROAD Course – Get a clear roadmap for moving abroad with step-by-step guidanceFollow Mistelle on Instagram: @iammistelleJoin the Abroadly Speaking community for more tips and storiesEnjoyed This Episode? If this episode helped you gain clarity on your move abroad, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who’s been dreaming of making the leap!
Tune in next week for another deep dive into what it really takes to live life beyond borders!
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Trigger Warning: Between timestamp 3:27 to 4:38, Mistelle discusses medical history. If you prefer to avoid this, please skip during this part.
In this episode of Abroadly Speaking, Mistelle takes a deep dive into the healthcare systems she’s experienced while living in the US, Switzerland, and Austria. She compares her personal journey through (TRIGGER WARNING- personal health) treatment in the US with the healthcare experiences she's had in Switzerland and Austria, highlighting the stark differences in cost, accessibility, and approach.
Mistelle shares the financial challenges she faced while undergoing extensive treatment in the US despite having excellent health insurance, discussing the toll it took on her and her family. She contrasts this with the more affordable and accessible healthcare she encountered in Switzerland, where even major procedures like MRIs and ultrasounds cost far less than what she would have paid in the US.
The episode also explores Austria’s socialized healthcare system, which Mistelle experienced during a surgery in 2020. She recounts how the cost of care was completely covered by the government, with no out-of-pocket expenses, despite a seven-day hospital stay. Mistelle touches on the potential downsides of socialized medicine, such as long wait times for non-emergency care, and the balance between private and public insurance options in Switzerland.
Through personal anecdotes and a candid comparison of healthcare in these three countries, Mistelle sheds light on the realities of navigating medical care abroad and offers insights into how different healthcare systems work, for both the healthy and those facing serious medical conditions. Whether you're a potential expat or someone who's already living abroad, this episode provides valuable perspectives on how healthcare varies across borders and what that means for your own well-being.
Tune in for an honest and eye-opening discussion about health, insurance, and the real cost of care when living abroad.
Like the episode? Follow Mistelle on instagram @iammistelle where we share all things "living abroad"
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In this heartwarming and insightful episode of Abroadly Speaking, Mistelle sits down with a very special guest—her 7-year-old daughter (affectionately called "Monkey"). Together, they dive into what it’s really like to grow up as an expat kid in Switzerland.
What you’ll hear in this episode:
Monkey’s favorite parts about living in Switzerland, from skiing in the Alps to hiking through breathtaking landscapes.A day in the life of a Swiss schoolkid: bilingual education, woodworking classes, and spending Fridays in the forest.How their family stays connected with grandparents and relatives back in the United States—complete with FaceTime calls and playful pranks.Monkey’s favorite global adventures, including camel rides in Morocco, safaris in Denmark, and countless gondola rides in Venice.The unique perspective of a child exploring new cultures, embracing adventure, and creating unforgettable memories abroad.Whether you’re a parent considering the expat life, a fellow traveler, or just curious about what growing up abroad is like, this episode offers a delightful peek into the joys, challenges, and unforgettable experiences of expat family life.
Tune in for an adorable, funny, and inspiring conversation you don’t want to miss!
Connect with Mistelle:
Instagram: @iammistelle
Website: MistelleGodlewski.com
Liked this episode? Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend!
4o
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In this episode of Abroadly Speaking, we dive into one of the unexpected challenges of expat parenting: managing life when your safety net—family, close friends, or a trusted tribe—is thousands of miles away. What do you do when your child gets sick, and there's no grandma or best friend nearby to step in?
Mistelle shares her personal experiences of parenting abroad, from navigating a chickenpox outbreak with her toddler to the added complexities of managing work and childcare during COVID lockdowns. Learn how cultural differences, workplace policies, and a bit of creativity helped her juggle it all and find solutions in seemingly impossible situations.
What You'll Hear in This Episode:
A story of managing a toddler with chickenpox while both parents worked full-time.The surprising benefits of family leave policies in Austria and Switzerland.How COVID-19 added new layers of complexity to parenting abroad.Creative strategies for balancing work and parenting without a local support system.Tips on making the most of cultural differences, like extended sick leave policies.Who This Episode is For:
This episode is perfect for expat parents, dual-working households, or anyone considering the move abroad and wondering how to handle parenting challenges far from home.
Resources Mentioned:
The GroClock for rest-time management (not sponsored but highly recommended!)Disney+ and how screen time can be an occasional lifesaver.Let’s Connect!
Have your own story about parenting abroad? Share it with me on Instagram [@iammistelle]!
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Navigating the holiday season as an expat comes with its own set of challenges, especially when you're living thousands of miles away from family. In this episode of Abroadly Speaking, I'm diving into how my family and I have celebrated Christmas over the years while living abroad, from renting cozy ski chalets in Switzerland to inviting everyone to us instead of flying across the U.S.
I share stories of juggling long-haul flights with a small child, the magic of European Christmas markets, and how we've found joy in creating new traditions while staying connected to loved ones. If the thought of missing family during the holidays is holding you back from moving abroad, this episode is full of tips on making the season special—no matter where in the world you are.
I would love to connect on Instagram @iammistelle
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Welcome to another episode of Abroadly Speaking, where we unravel the exciting, challenging, and sometimes tedious details of moving and living abroad. In today’s episode, we dive deep into the not-so-glamorous but absolutely crucial topic of visas—what they are, why they’re essential, and how to tackle the paperwork without losing your sanity.
If you’re daydreaming about starting a life overseas, this episode is packed with practical tips to make sure your visa process goes smoothly (or at least as painlessly as possible).
Here’s what you’ll learn:
Why visas are non-negotiable: No, you can’t skip this step if you want to stay legal in your new home.Key documents you can prep NOW: Save time (and headaches) by getting your passport, birth certificate, marriage license, and more in order.The deal with apostille stamps: Spoiler: a notary stamp won’t cut it in many cases.How to navigate the dreaded police certificate: Yes, you may need to ask the FBI to vouch for you—don’t worry, it’s easier than it sounds.Visa renewals are a thing: Why your journey doesn’t end after you get that first shiny visa.Whether you're gearing up for your first move abroad or already living the expat life, this episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating the intricate world of visas.
🎧 Don’t miss out—hit play and let’s demystify the visa process together!
Connect with me
Got questions or stories about your own visa adventures? Drop a comment or connect with me on social media [@iammistelle]—I'd love to hear from you!
Make sure to subscribe to Abroadly Speaking for more insights and tips on living your best life abroad. 🌍
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In this episode, I dive into one of the heaviest parts of expat life: the guilt that comes with being far from family.
For anyone who’s moved abroad or is considering it, the decision is often clouded by questions like, Will I miss out on time with my parents? Will my kids know their grandparents? What happens if there’s an emergency?
I share my personal experiences, including the emotional challenges of being an ocean away when family emergencies happen. I'll open up about how I cope with these feelings, ways my family has stayed connected despite the miles, and why choosing this path for my family’s best life doesn’t mean I don’t carry the weight of being far from loved ones.
If you'd like to chat, find out more, or just get a window into the life of an expat, I've got you. Head on over to Instagram and come along (@iammistelle)
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In this special Thanksgiving episode, I'll reflect on the tradition that means the most to me and how we've made it work thousands of miles from home.
As an expat living in Switzerland, I share my journey of keeping the Thanksgiving spirit alive, even though the holiday doesn’t officially exist here. Discover the origins of my "Nomad Thanksgiving," an annual feast that brings together a melting pot of friends from all over the world, each bringing comfort foods from their own cultures. It's a tradition we call framily—friends who have become family.
Listen in as I recount stories of gratitude, community, and adapting traditions, from cooking two small turkeys to make up for a European-sized oven to finding creative substitutes for ingredients like canned pumpkin and cranberries. I also dive into the deeper challenges and joys of maintaining family traditions as an expat, including how I'm passing Thanksgiving down to my daughter in a way that’s meaningful—even if it looks a bit different.
So, whether you're an expat missing home or someone dreaming of building a life abroad, this episode is a heartwarming reminder that you don’t have to leave your traditions behind—you just might need to adapt them.
In This Episode, You’ll Hear About:
The origins of "Nomad Thanksgiving" and how it’s become a beloved traditionCreative ways to adapt holiday meals and ingredients abroadThe beauty of sharing traditions with friends from around the worldMy personal take on building a life abroad while staying connected to family traditionsConnect with me: Follow along with the expat life and join the conversation on Instagram @iammistelle. And remember, life’s too short to stay in one place—keep that passport handy!
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One of the biggest fears I hear about moving abroad is not being able to speak the language. It holds so many people back from taking the leap to move, but is it really that big of a problem?
In this episode, we'll talk about why NOT knowing the language before you move is NOT a problem.
You'll also hear three ways that I found that helped me go from not speaking any German (the language where I live) to fully fluent quickly.
No more excuses. No more fears. If you're feeling the itch to move abroad, don't let the fear of not knowing the language stop you from creating your life overseas.
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Ever feel like you're just not ready to make the leap abroad? Today, I'll unpack one of the biggest myths around moving overseas: the idea of being “ready.”
With over a decade of experience and three international moves under my belt, I share why “readiness” is more a mental block than a real milestone, and offer practical steps to start your journey even if you’re feeling unprepared.
From planning your budget to connecting with expat communities in your future destination, my tips are all about making your dream a reality without waiting for the elusive “perfect time.”
Join me for a candid chat on getting comfortable with the unknown and taking control of your plans.
Key Topics:
Why the idea of being “ready” is a myth (and what’s actually holding you back)Practical ways to start preparing for life abroad, from budgeting to visa timelinesHow to build your new community online before you even set foot in your new countryTips for backward planning to feel more confident and in control of the moveLooking for our "Ultimate Move Abroad Checklist?" You can find it here:
Take me to the Checklist
Follow me on the gram: @iammistelle
If this episode inspired you to think bigger and take action, subscribe, leave a review, or share it with a friend who's ready for their own adventure! And don’t forget to download the checklist and start planning your next steps abroad.
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