Summary

In this conversation, Marie Suazo shares her experiences growing up as a third culture kid, navigating the complexities of her diplomatic upbringing across various countries. She reflects on the cultural expectations imposed by her family, the challenges of communication, and the importance of creating boundaries for personal growth. Marie discusses her teenage years, the significance of community connections, and the journey towards healing and self-acceptance. Ultimately, she emphasizes the hope for a future filled with empathy and understanding, both for herself and for others in similar situations.

Takeaways

Marie Suazo grew up as a third culture kid, moving between multiple countries.

Her upbringing was influenced by her mother's role as a diplomat.

Cultural expectations often conflicted with her personal identity.

Communication gaps created challenges in her family relationships.

Teenage years were marked by a strong sense of community.

Marie learned to navigate different cultural norms and expectations.

Creating boundaries was essential for her personal growth.

Support systems played a crucial role in her healing process.

She emphasizes the importance of empathy in relationships.

Marie advocates for TCKs and shares her experiences to inspire others.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Marie Suazo

03:36 Navigating a Third Culture Childhood

06:57 Expectations of a Diplomat's Child

09:20 Family Values and Cultural Differences

14:48 The Gap Between Generations

20:23 Teenage Years and Finding Community

23:32 Transitioning to College Life in Korea

30:28 Realizations and Personal Growth

40:00 Advice for Others in Similar Situations

42:40 Hope for the Future

48:25 Introduction to Exped Insights

48:55 Closing Thoughts and Resources

Guest

Marie Suazo

https://www.instagram.com/maries.tck.memories/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/marie-suazo-962257128/

Host

Annegret Bertsch

https://www.coaching-because.com

https://www.instagram.com/coaching_because/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/annegret-bertsch-cpc-34a8371a5/?originalSubdomain=de

Summary

In this episode, Annegret Bertsch and Andrea Zahrte discuss the complexities of repatriation and reverse culture shock. They explore the emotional challenges faced by individuals returning to their home country after living abroad, including feelings of grief, isolation, and the struggle to readjust. Andrea shares her personal experiences and insights as a coach for repatriates, offering practical advice on navigating the transition, supporting children, and finding a sense of belonging again. The conversation emphasizes the importance of acknowledging grief, maintaining connections, and recognizing the hidden gifts that come from the repatriation experience.

Takeaways

Repatriation can lead to feelings of grief and loss.

Reverse culture shock is a common experience for returnees.

It's important to talk about feelings within the family.

Children may grieve differently than adults during repatriation.

Finding new routines can help ease the transition.

You can have multiple homes in your heart.

Acknowledging the emotional journey is crucial for healing.

Support from friends and family can make a difference.

Grief is a normal part of the repatriation process.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Repatriation and Reverse Culture Shock

05:31 Understanding Reverse Culture Shock

10:22 Personal Experiences of Repatriation

15:13 Challenges in the Workplace After Repatriation

20:33 Supporting Families and Children During Repatriation

25:00 Establishing Emotional Routines for Kids

26:29 Understanding Home and Belonging

28:54 The Importance of Connection and Community

32:59 Supporting Repatriation: Insights for Friends and Family

34:16 The Hidden Gifts of Repatriation

38:00 Exploring Home with Fresh Eyes

39:29 Final Thoughts on Reverse Culture Shock

40:54 Introduction to Exped Insights

41:23 Closing Thoughts and Resources

Guest:

Andrea Zahrte

https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrea-zahrte/

https://andreazahrte.com

Host:

Annegret Bertsch

https://www.coaching-because.com

Summary

In this episode of Expat Insights, host Annegret Bertsch speaks with career mentor Tina Stavemann about the intricacies of navigating international careers in Germany. Tina shares her journey from working in HR and marketing to mentoring internationals, particularly in the STEM fields. The conversation covers the unique advantages that international talent brings to German companies, the challenges faced by newcomers, and practical advice for finding job opportunities. Tina emphasizes the importance of language skills, networking, and cultural understanding while also addressing the bureaucratic hurdles that internationals must overcome. The episode concludes with encouraging insights and practical steps for those looking to establish their careers in Germany.

Takeaways

• Tina Stavemann supports internationals in Germany, especially in STEM fields.
• International talent brings unique perspectives and less risk aversion to German companies.
• The majority of Germany's economy consists of small and medium-sized enterprises.
• Language skills are crucial for job success in Germany.
• Networking is essential for finding job opportunities in smaller companies.
• Bureaucracy can be a significant challenge for internationals.
• Cultural understanding is key to integrating into the German workplace.
• Mentorship can provide valuable insights and fast-track success.
• Building connections can help combat feelings of loneliness.
• Authenticity is important for long-term career satisfaction.

Guest

Tina Stavemann

https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-stavemann-3335bb39/

Coffee Club: https://kurzlinks.de/5ywb

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Host

Annegret Bertsch

https://www.coaching-because.com