The New to Canada Podcast
The New to Canada podcast is a place for internationals from around the world to share their honest, real-life experience of moving to Canada. The host, Kate Malcolm, went backpacking solo around South-East Asia in 2016 and met a dashing Canadian, leading to an unexpected move across the world from a crowded English city to a new lake life in rural Ontario. After living and working long-term in 5 different countries, Kate is passionate about helping you adjust to your big move abroad by sharing the lessons she's learnt along the way and introducing you to others who are going through the exact same struggles that you are facing. You are not alone. Let's build a life in Canada that you love!
Episodes
Career-Building and Mentorship | Baisakhi from India
If you've ever listened to the New to Canada podcast, you understand the value of hearing other newcomers' stories and experiences. It's the reason why I started this show. Moving to a new country can get TOUGH… and just knowing that we aren't alone in our struggles can be so healing. Today's guest has spent her incredible journalism career shining a light on the stories of immigrants in Canada. I
Regretting Your Move and Going Back Home | Chiara from England
What happens when you move to a new country… and it doesn't work out? You don't find the happiness and success that you thought you would. You painfully miss everyone and everything that you left behind and feel like you've made a huge mistake. We've all gone through times of feeling this way, but it isn't spoken about enough so you can end up feeling like a failure. Like you're the only one strug
LIVE: Speed Immigration Stories | Toronto Newcomer Day - May 23
For this special episode, I'm LIVE on the ground at Toronto's 'Newcomer Day' that took place on May 23. Armed with my portable microphone, I wore a t-shirt emblazoned with the words "TALK TO ME: Share your immigration story on the New to Canada podcast" and I was excited to connect with 11 internationals: Sophie from Ireland Johnny from Lebanon Samantha from Malaysia + Australia Joseph from Niger
LIVE: Moving to Canada Party | Career + Social Life
Recently, I hosted a live online event, my 'Moving to Canada' party! Not only was it SO much fun to meet and get to know you all in person, but it was also PACKED with so much value. It seemed crazy not to publish it here on the show for you all to experience... I'm joined by Career coach, Michelle Ashley, and together we tackle the TWO biggest areas of struggle that I see newcomers to Canada face
Mental Health After a Move | Gabriela from Chile
Let's dive deep into the darker side of moving abroad… When you move to a new country, your mental health isn't really your first priority. You've got immigration paperwork to complete, accommodation to find, and job searching to do… BUT expat mental health is a topic that, in my opinion, is NOT spoken about enough. The biggest lesson I've learnt since starting this podcast is that the majority o
British Pensions Abroad | Ian from England
If you've ever worked in the United Kingdom (no matter what nationality you are), you have paid into the UK State Pension. Once you move away, say to Canada, you might think that those payments are simply lost, or like me, you're unsure what can even be done from overseas… Good news is, I'm joined in this episode by Ian Andexser, a fellow Brit in Canada and chairman of the Canadian Alliance of Bri
Building Wealth in Canada | Tomisin from Nigeria
If you're inspired by "money mindset" podcasts, this is the episode for you! There comes a time in your immigration journey when you'll start looking to the future and thinking about how to build your wealth in Canada long-term. This episode's guest, Tomisin Salam, is originally from Lagos, Nigeria, and moved to Canada in 2011 to pursue his entrepreneurial dreams. Together, we chat about the art
Indigenous Peoples of Canada | Danielle & Jamie-Leigh from RAVEN Trust
As new residents and citizens of Canada, it is so important for us to learn about and become allies for its Indigenous Peoples. First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples have been living in what is now Canada for thousands of years, and they each have unique histories, languages, cultural practices, and spiritual beliefs. We newcomers are now lucky enough to call this beautiful country our home - b
Canada's Luckiest Newcomer | Hannibal from the Philippines
Imagine moving across the world and, on a whim, entering an online contest called Canada's Luckiest Newcomer… Now imagine getting the phone call that you've actually WON, out of thousands of entrants, and a bundle of life-changing prizes is on its way to you… including $20,000, free groceries for a year, 50,000 Air Miles, and more! That's what happened to this episode's guest, Hannibal from the P
Camping Tips | Audrey from Parks Canada
Searching for some camping tips as you head out into Canada's National Parks this summer? Look no further! This episode's guest, Audrey Levesque, is a Canadian camping expert who has worked with Parks Canada for over 20 years. Canada's diverse NATURE is one of the main reasons that newcomers give for moving here and Parks Canada manages and protects many of the most special places it has to offer
My Birth + Postpartum Story | Kate, Your Host
I'm back on the mic and officially a MOTHER to 8-week-old Sienna Joy - and what a whirlwind it has been... Tune in to this episode to hear exactly what went down (11 days overdue, multiple induction procedures, failed epidurals, doctor unavailable due to family emergency, the FULL birth story!) As well as my postpartum experience so far including my struggles with guilt and loneliness due to start
Unlock Canada | Roberto from Mexico
Roberto was just 18 years old when he moved from Mexico to Canada to be an international student. 17 years later, he's built a successful career and family life in Canada and he's here to share with us the ups and downs of his journey. Today, Roberto gives back to the newcomer community through his work at the Institute for Canadian Citizenship. They run the Citizenship ceremonies that you'll atte
Pregnancy in Canada | Ashley from Scotland
This episode's guest is Ashley from Glasgow, Scotland, who moved to Burlington, Ontario in 2019. Ashley's son was born in Scotland - Shortly followed by the birth of her daughter here in Canada. As she's experienced both, Ashley is here to highlight the differences that she's noticed when having a baby using the UK's National Health Service vs. The Canadian Healthcare system. Together, we chat abo
Self-Doubt and Resilience | Brenda from Kenya
Newcomers often arrive in Canada full of confidence that they'll soon find a job in their field and thrive in their new home… Unfortunately, it isn't always that simple. The Canadian job search can be notoriously challenging and many immigrants suddenly find themselves doubting their experience and skills. This episode's guest, Brenda Ngure from Kenya, is here to remind us of everything that we CA
Workplace Culture in Canada | Lindsay from the USA
Ever wondered what the workplace culture in Canada is like? Turns out that there can be a lot of unexpected differences to get your head around when you first start your career here. From the amount of paid time off you are entitled to, to the famous American "hustle" culture, to how much time you spend socialising with your colleagues after work. In this episode, I'm joined by Lindsay McMahon,
Small vs. Big Cities in Canada | Mustafa from Pakistan
Are you wondering what it's like to live in small vs. big cities in Canada? Look no further than this episode's guest, Mustafa from Pakistan. In this episode, he shares his experience of being an international student at Queen's University and moving from crowded Karachi to the close-knit community of Kingston, Ontario. He also explains his career path as a fresh graduate in Canada and his experie
Moving to Vancouver Island | Emme from England
Dreaming of moving to Vancouver Island? I don't blame you! We have all seen the stunning ocean and mountain landscapes that British Colombia has to offer… This episode's guest, Emme, is originally from Yorkshire in England and moved to Toronto in 2016. After spending several months in the bustling city, she decided to pack her bags and move solo to Vancouver Island in search of a more tranquil and
Pep Talks: What NOT to Do When Your Move Abroad | Your Host, Kate
Join me as I share another of my passionate pep talks! This time, the topic is: Self-Sabotage. I'm sharing 5 behaviours and mindsets to avoid after moving abroad that could be setting back your progress and hindering your whole experience. You might not even know you're doing it... Let me know if you're guilty! Links & Resources: WIRELESSWAVE Black Friday Deals on smartphones, data plans, and acc
Series 3 Reunion Episode | Kate, Elizabeth, Harisha and Mike
In this episode, I am reunited with poll winners Elizabeth from Colombia (ep. 9), Harisha from India (ep. 5), and Mike from Brazil (ep. 17) for a fun end of Series 3 get together. Get ready to laugh along with us as we share 2 truths, 1 lie about our native countries, as well as dive deep into more personal aspects of moving abroad - Such as adjusting to a different workplace culture, growing up w
Job Search Tips | Hugo from Ireland
Looking for some job search tips? Luckily, this episode's guest knows all about how best to navigate the Canadian job market! Hugo O'Doherty is originally from Ireland and he moved to Montreal in 2011. He is also a Product Manager at Moving2Canada: An invaluable resource for newcomers offering endless recruitment & immigration information. Together we chat about life in Montreal, the global Irish
Canadian Citizenship | Larry from Butkowsky Immigration Law
Congratulations! Canadian Citizenship is the final step in your immigration journey… That passport will feel SO good when you finally have it in your hands. If you think you're ready to start your application, this episode's guest, Canadian Immigration Lawyer, Larry Butkowsky from Butkowsky Immigration Law, is here to help. *Disclaimer: This episode was recorded on August 5, 2022. Always check th
Brazilian to Canadian Culture | Mike from Brazil
In 2016, Mike decided to abandon his Law career in Brazil to start a new adventure in Toronto. Fast forward to today, he's now living an entirely different and unexpected life! He is a successful entrepreneur, has built a cool online community of English learners over on his Instagram @itsteachermike, and is expecting his second child with the love of his life! In this episode, he shares with us h
Peace by Chocolate | Tareq from Syria
Sometimes a story comes along that every person on earth should hear - The story of Tareq Hadhad and his family is one of them. A once displaced Syrian refugee, Tareq is now a Canadian CEO and a public speaker who tours the country to inspire audiences, advocate for immigration, humanize refugees, and share his family's incredible story of survival. In this episode, he walks us through his famil
Pre-Arrival + Life in Manitoba | Diane from Prairie Relocation
Thinking of moving to Manitoba? When choosing which Canadian province to move to, it can be easy to focus on the most popular ones (e.g. British Colombia or Ontario...) Instead, I bring you this episode's wonderful guest, Diane Bergman, who was born and raised in Winnipeg and is here to tell us all about life in Manitoba! Diane is the founder of Prairie Relocation, a concierge-style relocation co
The Power of Volunteering | Lina from Egypt
Volunteering in Canada when you're a newcomer has so many benefits, including meeting new people, building your resume and learning new social norms. This episode's guest, Lina Sobhy, would not be where she is today in her career without it. She is originally from Egypt and moved to Montreal in 2013 to finally reunite with her husband after living apart from him for 4 years. We chat about making f
Making Maple Syrup | Yvonne from CLOCA
Ever wondered how maple syrup is actually made here in Canada? This episode is my very first LIVE on-site tour and interview recording! Come and join me as I speak with Yvonne Storm from the Central Lake Ontario Conservation Authority (CLOCA), as she walks us through their beautiful sugar bush at Purple Woods, Ontario. There, they have been producing maple syrup for 47 years. Yvonne explains how t
Finding Your Passion | Zara from Armenia
Please note:This interview was recorded on January 26, 2022 before the Russian invasion of Ukraine was announced to the world. This episode's guest, Zara Bagramian, was born in Armenia but moved to Kyiv, Ukraine with her family when she was one year old. We discuss both countries at length. Zara would like to take this opportunity to share an organization with us that she has been supporting sinc
Sports in Canada | Jack from Wales
If you've grown up religiously following your country's chosen national sports, it can be a real culture shock when you move to a new country where those sports just aren't as popular… Enter this episode's guest, Jack Tanetta from Wales, United Kingdom. Jack was studying at Cardiff University when he met his Canadian now-fiancée and moved to her Ontario hometown Ontario in 2017. In this episode, w
A Child's Perspective | Emilia from Honduras
Want to know what it's like to move to a new country as a young child? Emilia was just 11 years old when her parents decided to move their family from Honduras to Canada. Host, Kate, moved from England to France when she was just 13 years old. Together, we discuss the things that our parents did to help us settle that we are now thankful for today, language barriers, the guilt of leaving loved one
Introducing: The New to Canada Podcast
The New to Canada podcast is a place for internationals from around the world to share their honest, real-life experience of moving to Canada. The host, Kate Johnson, went backpacking solo around South-East Asia in 2016 and met a dashing Canadian... Cue an unexpected move across the world from a crowded English city to a new lake life in rural Ontario! After living and working long-term in 5 diffe
Loving Your Accent | Elizabeth from Colombia
If English is your second language and you've recently moved to an English-speaking country, this is the episode for you! I'm joined by the wonderful Elizabeth who moved from Colombia to Canada in 2016. She chats with us about her experience with new and unexpected insecurities about herself and her accent when she first arrived. We also discuss what it's like growing up in the coffee axis of Colo
The Immigrant Mindset | Alena from Russia
Immigrants. Are. Awesome. We are adventurous, adaptable, ambitious, community-driven, and naturally entrepreneurial. As the Harvard Business Review wrote in one of their articles, the immigrant mindset is one to STRIVE for in order to advance your career. This episode's guest exhibits all of these qualities and more. In 2013, Alena met a stranger on a train in Moscow who introduced her to the ide
From Pizza Delivery to Engineering | Malek from Jordan
What if "starting your career from scratch" after moving to Canada doesn't have to be a bad thing? This episode's guest has a truly inspiring knack for looking at every job as a learning opportunity and doing whatever it takes to succeed. Malek Aljabari moved to Canada in 2016 with his wife and then 1-year-old daughter, and with just $120 in his pocket, has progressed from a Domino's and Uber empl
IELTS Test Tips | Jessica from All Ears English
IELTS stands for The International English Language Testing System and is a test that is required by many English universities and English-speaking countries around the world. This week's guest is Jessica Beck, a previous IELTS examiner of 14 years, a successful podcast host, and English teacher who has taught in Spain, Cambodia, Taiwan, and the United States. In this episode, she runs through wha
Mental Wellness Abroad | Harisha from India
Mental wellness abroad is not a topic that is widely discussed… We see moving to a new country as one big adventure and often disregard the emotional rollercoaster that comes with it. This episode's guest, Harisha from India, discusses how she finds inner strength in times of struggle and stresses the importance of slowing down and checking in with ourselves during such a big life transition. She
From Africa to Saskatchewan | Chifuka from Zambia
This episode's guest is Chifuka from Zambia, Africa. Back in 2004, together with his parents and 4 brothers, 19-year-old Chifuka moved from the busy city of Kitwe to a small town in Saskatchewan. He tells us about his family's experience of being the only immigrants in a white Canadian community. We also discuss how newcomers from countries that celebrate being humble and reserved can unexpectedly
Life in Alberta | Marisol from Costa Rica
It's time to learn about life in Alberta! Whether you're still unsure about where exactly to move in Canada or you're just interested in learning more about the different provinces, this episode's guest has all the insider info. Marisol moved from Costa Rica to Edmonton, Alberta, 11 years ago after meeting her Canadian now-husband. Together, we chat about luscious Costa Rica and then dive deep int
Building Meaningful Connections | Jan from Germany
When we move to a new country, we all have the same mission: To grow some meaningful connections with those around us in our new home… But what happens instead? We attend lots of events but end up talking about the weather or what we do and we leave with a list of new contacts but no real relationships. This episode's guest is Jan Keck who moved from Germany to Toronto back in 2008. He shares some
Pep Talks: My Career Journey in Canada | Your Host, Kate
Join me as I share another of my passionate pep talks! This time, the topic is: Careers in Canada. In this episode, I'm taking you through the journey from when I first started job hunting with no Canadian work experience back in 2017 to finally feeling happy and fulfilled in my career today. I share the different ways that I thought "outside of the box" and got creative when I was faced with unex
Series 2 Reunion Episode | Kate, Carlotta, Elisabet and Itir
In this episode, I am reunited with poll winners Itir from Turkey (ep. 12), Elisabet from Spain (ep. 14), and Carlotta from Italy (ep. 18) for a fun end of Series 2 get together. Get ready to laugh along with us as we share 2 truths, 1 lie about our native countries, as well as dive deep into more personal aspects of moving abroad - Such as mental health barriers, Canadian culture, and more. You
Montréal, Vancouver or Toronto? | Sarah from England
Montréal, Vancouver, or Toronto? If you're stuck choosing between these 3 beautiful Canadian cities, we've got you covered! This episode's guest is Sarah Mac from England and she has lived long-term in all 3 places since moving to Canada in 2008. She tells us the pros and cons of each - Including whether or not French language skills are vital for a life in Montréal. She also shares her journey fr
Conquering Fear | Carlotta from Italy
Conquering fear. Stopping those 'what ifs' that are holding you back. Pushing yourself outside of your comfort zone. If these are some of your goals, then this is the episode for you! This week, I chat with Carlotta Crestanello from Italy whose story is a little different… She didn't want to move to Canada at all! Her Dad forced her on a plane to Vancouver against her will back in 2013 and just 2
Buying Real Estate in Canada | Sid from India
Buying Real Estate in Canada can feel like an impossibly large and daunting goal; especially as an international newcomer… This episode's guest, Sidharth Iyer from India, bought a condo in Toronto just 18 months after his big move! He shares with us the 3 most important steps to take when thinking of buying property in Canada and spills his best tips and tricks for making the process as easy as po
Employability in Canada | Fares from Jordan
This week's guest is Fares Khouri from Jordan. In 2007, Fares planned to go to Lebanon for university. However, when civil unrest erupted there, he decided to move to Canada instead! In this episode, Fares shares with us the creative ways that he successfully built up his Canadian work experience and how you can use fundraising to build your soft skills and employability. He also introduces us to
International Student to Entrepreneur | Assel from Kazakhstan
Owning your own business in Canada is a dream that a lot of newcomers share and this episode's guest is no different. Assel Beglinova moved from Kazakhstan to Toronto in 2012. She shares her story of learning English with a host family and now, 9 years later, launching her own FinTech venture called 'Minance' that helps solo entrepreneurs manage their money. Assel shares her top tips to succeed a
Yoga & Community | Elisabet from Spain
Finding a supportive community abroad can make the world of difference when you are struggling to adjust. Sometimes all you need to feel more settled and happy is to know that you are not alone. In this episode, I chat with Elisabet Camprubi who moved from Spain to Toronto in 2012. When she found herself struggling with loneliness, culture shock, and language barriers, Elisabet turned to yoga and
How to Immigrate to Canada | Josh from Visto Immigration
Are you wondering HOW to immigrate to Canada? You asked, I listened! There are over 65 immigration pathways that are available to individuals seeking to immigrate to Canada. That leaves a lot of room for confusion and uncertainty when considering what the best option is for you. In this episode, I sit down with Josh Schachnow, a Toronto-based Immigration Lawyer and Founder of the Visto platform.
Never give up on your Canadian dream | Itir from Turkey
Legally immigrating to a new country doesn't always go to plan. In this episode, Itir from Turkey shares her story of finally living her Canadian dream when she came to study in Toronto, only to face immigration challenges and be forced to return. Her determination to research Canadian immigration pathways and to keep nurturing her network from abroad is an inspiring reminder to never give up on y
Finding a Job in Canada | Sharvari from India
Finding a job in Canada is one of the biggest hurdles that newcomers face. With limited knowledge of the Canadian labour market, job application standards, workplace culture, and zero network, it really isn't surprising. Luckily, there are various government-funded programs that are dedicated to helping you achieve your career goals. One of these programs is Canada InfoNet. In this episode, I chat
Lockdown Mental Health | Kate from England
The term 'languishing' was shared in a recent New York Times article to describe the joylessness or aimlessness that many of us are feeling during this unprecedented pandemic. In this episode, I talk about the importance of looking after your mental health during these continuous lockdowns - especially as an international living so far away from familiarity and loved ones. I run through some commo
Canadian Culture | Ryan from China
What is Canadian culture? In order to fit into your workplace and make new friends, it's important to understand what values, beliefs & behaviours make Canadians tick! In this episode, I'm joined by Ryan Lu from China. With dozens of his family already living around the globe, Ryan always knew that he too would leave China to experience other cultures. During his 23 years, he has already lived in
CELPIP and CAEL English Tests | Alison from Paragon Testing Enterprises
Do you need to take your CELPIP or CAEL English test? These tests are officially designated for Canadian permanent residence applications by IRCC; as well as required for study in Canada and many professional designations. In this special expert episode, we sit down with Alison Chan from Paragon Testing Enterprises. She tells us everything we need to know about these English language tests and sha
Personal Finances | Jodi from Jamaica
Managing your personal finances abroad is one of those huge and often daunting tasks. Newcomers often watch their savings dwindle as they struggle to find a job. They battle with higher living costs than they're used to and have to build a Canadian credit score from scratch. This episode's guest is Jodi from Montego Bay, Jamaica: A self-confessed personal finance geek and the founder of the empowe
Making Mates Abroad | Tim from New Zealand
For many, the scariest part of moving abroad is not knowing anyone and having to find new people to hang out with... This episode's guest is Tim Butler who moved from New Zealand to Vancouver in June 2019 to get himself out of a rut, challenge himself and experience the great Canadian outdoors. Tim shares how he has quickly built a solid social circle through hostels, sports and clubs - and how yo
Optimistic Expat | Eleni from Zimbabwe + Greece
Being an optimistic expat is a lot harder than it looks. Culture shock and homesickness can be really difficult to shake, especially during those first few years of living abroad. This episode's guest is the wonderfully positive Eleni who describes herself as a Zimbabwean Greek Cypriot - and soon to be Canadian! She moved to Toronto in 2017 with her husband and then 11-year-old daughter and spent
Comfort Zone | Oscar from Mexico
When did you last push yourself outside of your comfort zone? This episode's guest, Oscar Cecena, has done so time and time again! Since moving to Toronto 8 years ago from Mexico City, he has since built a successful career in FinTech, launched the Immigrants of Toronto podcast, set up newcomer coaching services and published his creative writing in a foreign language. What a busy bee. In this epi
Why Not? | Belle from the Philippines
This week's guest is the perfect example of throwing caution to the wind and yelling 'Why Not?!' when faced with life-changing opportunities. If you need some serious career inspiration, this is the episode for you. Originally from the Philippines, Belle has over 15 years of experience working with the most innovative tech brands such as Spotify, Netflix, Airbnb, Uber and TikTok. We chat about her
Third Culture Kid | Carolina from Brazil, UK and beyond
Third Culture Kids are individuals who grew up in different culture(s) to their parents - and, as a result, develop a connection to not just one but to ALL of these cultures. In this episode, I chat with Carolina Santos Read, a self-confessed Third Culture Kid. She is a UK-born Latina who grew up in Spain and the USA. Now, she is a singer, actress, dancer and voice-over artist who recently moved t
Tax Tips for Newcomers | Paul from Canada Revenue Agency
Do you still need to file your 2020 income tax return? Do not fear, our expert is here! In this episode, I sit down with Paul Murphy, a Senior Communications Advisor at the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) to discuss important tax tips that newcomers to Canada should know. Paul breaks down the process of filing your annual income tax return. He shares some definitions of various available benefits, cre
Series 1 Reunion Episode | Kate, Ashleigh, Karla and Adobea
Happy New Year and thank you to everyone who voted for their favourite guest from Series 1! In this episode, host Kate reunites with poll winners Ashleigh from Australia (ep. 4), Karla from Mexico (ep. 5), and Adobea from Ghana (ep. 8) for a fun end of Series 1 get together. Get ready to laugh along with us as we share 2 truths, 1 lie about our native countries, who we'd invite to our perfect dinn
Your Career Path | Nada from Bahrain
For many, 2020 has been a year for major career reevaluation. We spend a significant chunk of our lives working and we are now increasingly striving for that perfect marriage between what we love doing, what the world needs, and what can be monetized. Enter this episode's guest: Nada Buhendi, a career coach originally from Bahrain who moved to Ontario 19 years ago. She shares her story of growing
COVID-19 | Raquel from Portugal
The COVID-19 global pandemic has brought unprecedented challenges to people around the world. The ways in which it has affected individuals and families are countless; but one way is leaving Canada's international newcomers isolated, unsupported, and in a state of complete unknown. This episode's guest, Raquel Dias, arrived in Toronto one month before the pandemic announcement. With her Embassy te
Homesick Holidays | Kate from England
It's the most wonderful time of the year - But spending this family-oriented holiday season abroad away from our loved ones and familiar surroundings can be really challenging. In this shorter episode, I'm sharing the biggest 5 mistakes to avoid over the next few weeks that may increase your homesickness and sabotage the joy of the season! Listen to this easy-to-digest episode to hear my experien
Food Culture | Kaori from Japan
Food has the power to unite people, cross language barriers and bond us between cultures. This episode's guest, Kaori Hisada, moved from Japan to Canada 13 years ago. She shares her unique journey from reggae dancer who had never picked up a knife, to becoming a successful sous-chef in downtown Toronto. We cover Kaori's best recommendations for Japanese cuisine, Toronto's culinary hotspots and wha
A Refugee Experience | Diala from Lebanon
After working as nurses in Lebanon during the 1st wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, Diala Sharab and her husband were given the opportunity to bypass travel restrictions and immigrate to Canada as skilled refugees. Since then, they have been adjusting to life as newlyweds and making a difference in vulnerable people's lives in Canada as much-needed home care professionals. In this episode, Diala shed
Parenting Abroad | Terence from Malaysia
Wondering how to tell your kids that the family is moving abroad? Worried about how you can prepare them or how they will settle into their new school? You asked, we listened! In this episode, we cover this topic from all angles with Terence Chee from Malaysia. He shares his experience as a parent moving his family of 4 to Canada from Kuala Lumpur. Then, podcast host, Kate shares the child's point
Personal Branding | Nina from Switzerland
Moving abroad is the perfect chance to reflect on who you want to be and to refine your personal branding. Being able to clearly communicate what you do and what opportunities you're looking for is key when starting over in Canada. This week's guest is Nina Bader, founder of Creative Kommunikation, who is originally from Switzerland and has lived in Vancouver since 2016. In just ONE month, Nina gr
Mindset & Productivity | Devesh from United Arab Emirates
A positive mindset and a productive plan of action can make or break your move abroad. This week's guest is Progressholic podcast host, Devesh Tilokani. He is an international student who moved solo from Dubai to London ON, 3 years ago when he was only 18 years old. In this episode, Devesh shares his passion for personal growth and the different tactics he uses to bounce back when feeling low, in
Networking | Mahlena from USA
Networking is often plugged as the "must-do" activity in order to achieve success as a newcomer in Canada (no pressure, right?) But what if the idea of networking sends you into a cold-sweaty panic? This week's guest, Mahlena-Rae Johnson, is a speaker, writer, and comedian who recently moved to Ontario from Los Angeles. She teaches ambitious introverts how to build solid communities and how to piv
Relationships Abroad | Ollie & Shonagh from Ireland
Backpacking couple, Ollie & Shonagh from Kilkenny, Ireland, share their experiences travelling together through 31 countries and how they ended up living long-term in Vancouver. Their honest account of the ups and downs is delivered alongside hilarious stories and lessons learnt along the way. They share a warning to not always believe the "idyllic" picture of living abroad that many people share
PR Express Entry | Veronica from Roots Immigration Law
Express Entry is the most common pathway chosen by skilled internationals in the quest for Canadian Permanent Residency. In this episode, Veronica Wilson from Roots Immigration Law breaks down the application process step-by-step and shares some frequent mistakes she sees that we should avoid. Veronica is an inspirational lawyer who has dedicated her time to changing the narrative around immigrati
Canadian Work Experience | Adobea from Ghana
Have you been told that you "lack Canadian work experience" after applying for a job? This episode's guest, Adobea Foli, moved from Ghana, Africa to Vancouver 5 years ago. She explains what employers actually mean when they give this rejection reason and what newcomers can do to boost their credibility and improve their hiring chances in Canada. We also chat about her life growing up in Ghana, her
Canada vs USA | Surya from India
Canada's beautiful nature and multi-cultural inclusivity OR the American dream? This episode's guest, Surya Dhulipala, has lived, studied and worked in both countries. Originally from Mumbai, India, Surya earned his PhD in Texas before moving to Canada to pursue a career in Environmental Science. We talk about his experiences as an immigrant in both Canada and the US and he shares some important a
Packing and Shipping Abroad | Andrea from South Africa
Packing up and shipping your belongings overseas... Where to even begin? This episode's guest, Andrea van Niekerk, shares her experience sending a 40ft container from South Africa to Canada and runs through her best tips for saving money and making the process as quick and painless as possible. We also chat about making new friends as an adult and the challenges parents face when helping your chil
Starting a Business in Canada | Karla Briones from Mexico
Starting a business in Canada is a goal that many immigrants strive towards. Sometimes, you just need someone to remind you that it IS achievable. Enter this episode's guest: Karla Briones. Karla is a serial immigrant entrepreneur who helps other newcomers launch and grow successful businesses of their own. In this episode, we learn where her passion came from as she shares her family's immigratio
Culture Shock | Ashleigh from Australia
Culture Shock is the disorientating feeling that you don't quite "fit in" with the customs, attitudes, daily life or communication in your new home. In this episode, Ashleigh Baker, an Australian expat living in Vancouver, shares her personal experience with culture shock in her career; and runs through the different ways that it could be manifesting itself for you. We then chat about reverse cult
Learning English | Astrid from France
Learning English by moving to an English-speaking country? That's what this episode's guest did! Astrid Moulin is a French Blogger (@fringinto) & Digital Marketing Expert. In this episode, she shares her story of arriving in Toronto without any English language skills and how she threw herself into the challenge. Now, 6 years later and fluent in 3 languages, she's giving back to other newcomers li
Building a Career in Canada | David from Colombia
Building a career in Canada can feel like a huge challenge due to your lack of connections as well as resume & interview expectations. In this episode, I sit down with David Mendoza, Director of Orbit5, who has 10 years of experience helping internationals discover their career path and transition successfully into Canadian life.David shares his inspiring journey from Colombia, to the UK, and even
Homesickness | Kate from England
Homesickness sucks - and it's more common than you think! In this episode, get to know your host, Kate, as she shares her best tips for feeling better when you miss your loved ones and the country you left behind. She also shares the adventure-packed story behind her move to Canada from England. (Hint: It involves a paradise island in Thailand and a tanned Canadian backpacker…) You don't want to
