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	Titre	Date	Durée
	31 Years Abroad — Why Rob Hersov Came Home-EP 96	02 nov. 2026	00:31:58
Rob Hersov spent 31 years building a life and career overseas, working with some of the biggest names in international business. Then, in 2017, he returned to South Africa with his family. In this candid conversation, Rob reflects on leaving South Africa, his years in America and Europe, and why he believes life abroad can be romanticised. He explains what brought his family home, why he became an outspoken voice on South Africa's future, and why he believes many South Africans living overseas could one day return. We also discuss personal safety, the realities facing ordinary South Africans, the country's economic prospects, and his advice to young people considering emigration. “There is no place like home, but I'm telling you there's no place like South Africa.” — Rob Hersov _______________________________________________________________ Sable International For over 30 years Sable International has offered seamless solutions that simplify the complexities of cross-border movement and financial management, so that you can focus on what matters most to you – building your future beyond borders. Find out how Sable International can support your journey: https://bit.ly/3R3g1sy _______________________________________________________________ Timestamps 00:00 Introduction 01:34 Growing up in South Africa and building an international career 02:59 From Italy and London to 31 years abroad 04:59 Why he chose not to return in the 1990s 08:04 Why America made such an impression 10:20 Is life abroad romanticised? 13:06 Bringing the family back to Cape Town 16:17 What surprised him about returning 18:34 Why he became an outspoken activist 22:07 Could South Africans abroad return and invest? 25:21 Safety and the realities of living in South Africa 28:13 His advice to young South Africans 29:11 What he would tell his younger self 31:09 Why he believes the future can be better Connect with The Relocated South African https://therelocatedsouthafrican.com/podcast/ If you enjoyed this conversation, follow The Relocated South African, share the episode with someone considering emigration, and join the conversation. Should South Africans build their futures abroad, return home, or find a way to do both?
	From Durban to Glasgow: 24 Years of Building a Life in Scotland-Ep 95 with Marc Christensen	26 oct. 2026	00:49:12
Marc Christensen left Durban for the UK in 2001 with a simple plan: spend a couple of years overseas and then return home. Twenty-four years later, he is still in Scotland. After an initial spell in London, Marc discovered Glasgow and immediately felt that it reminded him of Durban. He packed a few bags, jumped on a bus and started again. In this episode, Marc talks openly about: Growing up in Durban and leaving South Africa at 21 His first experiences living overseas Why London never felt like home Discovering Glasgow and making the move north Building a career from working in pubs to sales and IT The guilt that came with being away when his mother died Co-parenting his son after divorce Running South African community groups in Scotland Helping South Africans find work, accommodation and support Why he believes immigrants shouldn't automatically "start from the bottom" The cost-of-living difference between London and Scotland Why he believes South Africans should look beyond London Building a remote recruitment business connecting South African talent with international companies Scotland's weather, safety and what has changed over the years What he would tell a young South African considering leaving home Marc's story is also about giving back. After building a life abroad, he is now using his experience and network to help other South Africans create opportunities for themselves. "You've got one life and you've got to live it for you, not for other people." ____________________________________________________________ Sable International For over 30 years Sable International has offered seamless solutions that simplify the complexities of cross-border movement and financial management, so that you can focus on what matters most – building your future beyond borders. Find out how Sable International can support your journey: https://bit.ly/3R3g1sy _______________________________________________________________ TIMESTAMPS 00:01 – Welcome to Marc in Glasgow 02:18 – Growing up in Durban 03:58 – Leaving South Africa in 2001 04:58 – Getting British citizenship 05:25 – First experiences living overseas 06:51 – Arriving in London 08:30 – Discovering Glasgow 09:18 – Moving to Scotland with a few bags 10:51 – Finding work and building a life 12:06 – Moving from pub work into sales and IT 14:42 – Did he ever consider going back? 16:09 – Family, loss and the guilt of being away 18:19 – The emotional impact of emigration 20:05 – Building South African community groups in Scotland 22:30 – Why he doesn't want to commercialise the community 23:58 – The biggest mistakes South Africans make when relocating 24:10 – Why starting from the bottom can be a mistake 26:43 – The impact of relocation on relationships 28:34 – London versus Scotland: cost of living 30:12 – The cappuccino test 30:53 – His experience running a South African restaurant 32:38 – Starting a new business after leaving employment 35:00 – Building a remote recruitment business 36:35 – Connecting South African talent with international companies 39:12 – Giving back to South Africa 39:51 – Life and weather in Scotland 41:16 – Has Scotland become less safe? 44:03 – Haggis, black pudding and Scottish food 45:41 – Marc's advice to young South Africans Connect with Marc Simpatico Solutions Email: marc@simpaticosolutions.co.uk South Africans in Glasgow – Facebook Official South Africans in Scotland – Facebook Connect with The Relocated South African Website: www.therelocatedsouthafrican.com Podcast: The Relocated South African — available on Spotify and all major podcast platforms. If Marc's story resonated with you, please share this episode with another South African considering life abroad.
	From Cape Town to the UK: Building Two Businesses and a Life of Purpose-Ep 94 with Sharon Constançon	19 oct. 2026	00:45:31
Sharon Constançon left South Africa after a hijacking changed the way she viewed her future. Originally from Cape Town, Sharon had already built a successful career and business in South Africa when the security incident made her ask a simple question: if she couldn't safely travel two miles between her office and home, why was she living there? She moved to the UK, where she has now spent more than two decades. Along the way she built a career with the South African Chamber of Commerce and went on to build not one, but two very different businesses. Today Sharon runs Valufin, a foreign exchange and risk management business helping importers and exporters manage currency exposure, and Genius Boards, where she works with boards, CEOs and senior management on governance, board effectiveness and the dynamics that determine how organisations actually work. But this conversation goes well beyond business. We talk about growing up in South Africa, educating herself after being discouraged from pursuing further education, leaving South Africa, the importance of having family already in the UK, relationships and emigration, the realities of integrating into British life, why some South Africans struggle with being pigeonholed professionally, and what she misses most about home. Sharon also shares her thoughts on the cost of living in the UK, the price of a £6.50 cappuccino, safety in South Africa, and whether she could ever see herself moving back permanently. Her answer is revealing: she doesn't regret leaving, but she hasn't stopped being South African either. Quote of the episode: “Nothing is on a plate. Nothing is given to you on a plate.” ______________________________________________________________ SABLE INTERNATIONAL For over 30 years Sable International has offered seamless solutions that simplify the complexities of cross-border movement and financial management, so that you can focus on what matters most to you – building your future beyond borders. Find out how Sable International can support your journey: https://bit.ly/3R3g1sy ______________________________________________________________ TIMESTAMPS 00:11 – Welcome and introduction 01:17 – Winning the Away Game feature 02:49 – Growing up in Cape Town and Johannesburg 04:49 – Education, mobility and the UK connection 06:03 – The security incident that changed everything 07:57 – Returning to South Africa after ten years 09:03 – Having family already in the UK 11:15 – Helping South Africans through the Chamber 12:45 – Why some South Africans return to Cape Town 15:14 – Property and financial ties to South Africa 16:28 – Relationships and the reality of emigration 18:59 – Finding your South African community abroad 20:30 – Being South African in the UK 21:09 – Building two very different businesses 24:01 – Running a global team 25:45 – Governance and working with South Africa 27:21 – UK and South African governance 29:34 – Board accountability 31:45 – South Africans and the work ethic 34:19 – What Sharon misses from South Africa 36:48 – South African or British? 37:30 – The cost of living in the UK 39:33 – The £6.50 cappuccino 40:55 – Safety and returning to South Africa 42:55 – Would she do it again? 44:38 – How to connect with Sharon 44:58 – Closing thoughts ______________________________________________________________ Connect with Sharon Constançon: LinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/sharonconstancon The Relocated South African https://therelocatedsouthafrican.com/
	From Johannesburg to Canada: A Life at Sea, Starting Again-EP 93 with Dale Lyell	12 oct. 2026	00:48:06
Dale Lyell grew up in Johannesburg, joined the Safmarine Merchant Navy after matric and spent years travelling the world on container ships, bulk carriers and even the QE2. In 1998, Dale and his South African wife left South Africa for Canada. They arrived with no job waiting, very little support and no guarantee that things would work out. What followed was a fascinating journey of starting again, finding community, building a new career and eventually establishing a successful technology business. Dale talks openly about why he left South Africa, the reality of those early years, adapting to Canada, raising a son with South African roots and the safety mindset that many South Africans carry with them long after they leave. _______________________________________________________________ Sable International For over 30 years, Sable International has helped South Africans navigate international relocation, including visas, second passports, tax, wealth planning, foreign exchange and studying abroad. _______________________________________________________________ TIMESTAMPS 00:13 — Welcome to Dale in Ontario, Canada 01:35 — Growing up in Johannesburg and joining Safmarine 02:51 — Life on container ships and the QE2 04:58 — Dale's Canadian connection 06:43 — Why he left South Africa in 1998 08:47 — Crime, safety and quality of life 10:10 — Arriving in Canada with no job 11:54 — Starting again without a support network 13:40 — Finding community through martial arts 16:23 — Integrating into Canadian society 18:36 — Finding work and building a career 20:47 — Dale's technology business 22:01 — From a chocolate factory to technology 24:45 — Doing business in Canada 25:46 — Healthcare in Canada 28:06 — Raising a son with South African roots 30:35 — Family left behind in South Africa 32:10 — Staying connected to home 34:02 — Getting used to safety in Canada 35:11 — The difference in everyday life 36:43 — Dale's love of travel 38:53 — Advice for South Africans considering emigration 42:28 — What he would do differently 43:24 — Expectations and the five-year cycle 45:27 — Never give up 45:33 — Canada vs South Africa 47:10 — Final thoughts The Relocated South African The show for navigating emigration from South Africa for a better future. https://therelocatedsouthafrican.com/podcast/ If this episode resonated with you, please share it with another South African living abroad.
	From Springs to Taiwan to London: Why South Africa Is Calling Again -Ep 92 with Quinton Pullinge	05 oct. 2026	00:50:37
Quinton Pullinger’s story is anything but a straight line. He grew up in Springs, South Africa, trained as a goldsmith, and then took an unexpected leap to Taiwan after seeing an advert to teach English. What he thought would be a one-year adventure became nearly nine years. In Taiwan he learned Mandarin, built a career in the bicycle industry, travelled extensively and learned how to adapt to a completely different culture. He eventually moved into senior roles, including an eight-and-a-half-year journey with Brompton, before another opportunity took him to the UK in 2008. Now, after 18 years in Britain, Quinton is asking a question many long-term South African expats eventually face: could South Africa become home again? We talk about: • Leaving South Africa with no long-term plan • Arriving alone in Taiwan and surviving the first six months • Learning Mandarin and adapting to a new culture • Why negative expat thinking can hold people back • Building an international career by saying “yes” to opportunities • His journey through the bicycle industry and Brompton • Starting again in the UK with no contacts • Raising a family abroad and how that changes your risk profile • The NHS and the UK cost of living • Why Cape Town would be his choice if he returned to South Africa • Whether a part-time “swallow” lifestyle could work • His advice to his younger self: be more adventurous and take more risks _______________________________________________________________ SABLE INTERNATIONAL For over 30 years Sable International has offered seamless solutions that simplify the complexities of cross-border movement and financial management, so that you can focus on what matters most to you – building your future beyond borders. Find out how Sable International can support your journey: bit.ly/3R3g1sy _______________________________________________________________ TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Introduction 01:27 Weybridge and life near London 02:41 Growing up in Springs 06:00 The unexpected move to Taiwan 07:14 Learning Mandarin and surviving the first six months 09:16 Working and living in Taiwan 13:26 Returning to South Africa — and leaving again 15:10 Building a career in the bicycle industry 16:06 Why he eventually left Taiwan 18:13 Getting the opportunity to move to the UK 20:12 Meeting his wife and starting a family 21:08 Moving abroad alone 22:26 The danger of negative expat thinking 25:32 Values, friendships and identity abroad 26:08 A career built without a plan 29:44 Starting over in the UK 31:08 The mindset needed to make emigration work 33:49 Could South Africa become home again? 36:14 Why Cape Town would be his choice 37:33 Could a part-time return work? 39:33 South Africa, France or the UK? 40:14 The NHS and healthcare 42:32 The UK cost of living 44:08 What would he do differently? 46:21 How family changes your risk profile 47:17 Advice to his younger self 48:56 Staying true to your values 50:05 Final thoughts Connect with The Relocated South African: www.therelocatedsouthafrican.com
	From South Africa to Chile: Love, Language and a New Life-Ep 91 with Wynand Kuhn	28 sept. 2026	00:48:12
Wynand Kuhn's move to Chile was never part of a grand plan. Born and raised in Upington, Wynand was working in the restaurant industry in Durban when his brother-in-law invited him to Chile in 2005 to help set up a South African-themed restaurant. He arrived knowing almost no Spanish. Then he met the woman who would become his wife — and decided to stay. More than 20 years later, Wynand lives with his wife and three sons near Santiago and has built an international career in business and renewable energy. In this episode, Wynand talks about arriving in Chile, learning Spanish without formal classes, building a career from English teacher to senior executive, returning to South Africa in 2011 and eventually making his way back to Chile. We discuss life in Chile compared with South Africa, safety, healthcare, education, cost of living, food and wine, raising children between two cultures, and why Chile could be an option for South Africans considering a less conventional destination. Wynand also talks about the Chilean South African Chamber of Commerce, his possible future move to the United States, and whether South Africa could ever be home again. SABLE INTERNATIONAL For over 30 years Sable International has offered seamless solutions that simplify the complexities of cross-border movement and financial management, so that you can focus on what matters most to you – building your future beyond borders. Find out how Sable International can support your journey: https://bit.ly/3R3g1sy TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Introduction 01:15 Growing up in Upington 02:50 How Wynand ended up in Chile 05:56 Meeting his wife 06:24 Learning Spanish without classes 07:25 Returning to South Africa in 2011 08:09 Raising three boys 09:03 The challenges of starting out 10:16 Building a career in Chile 12:41 From supermarket worker to general manager 14:31 Returning to South Africa 16:00 Finding opportunities through Spanish 18:00 Why Chile became home again 23:49 Considering another move 25:16 Chilean residency and citizenship 25:40 The possibility of moving to the USA 26:46 The Chilean South African Chamber of Commerce 28:19 Living outside Santiago 29:19 Safety and crime in Chile 32:27 Healthcare and schooling 33:57 Minimum wages and cost of living 34:46 The cappuccino index 36:12 Chilean food and seafood 37:53 Chilean wine 38:54 Staying connected with family in South Africa 40:32 Could Chile work for South Africans? 42:52 Tax in Chile 44:07 Would Wynand ever return to South Africa? 46:01 His advice to young South Africans 47:20 Final thoughts CONNECT WITH WYNAND Wynand Kuhn is active on LinkedIn. You can connect with him here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wynand-kuhn/ THE RELOCATED SOUTH AFRICAN The podcast for navigating emigration from South Africa for a better future. www.therelocatedsouthafrican.com If Wynand's story resonated with you, please share this episode with another South African living abroad.
	South Africa, UK, Singapore... And Back to Cape Town-EP 90 with Tracey Shearer	21 sept. 2026	00:45:32
Tracey Shearer left South Africa in 2003 with an Irish passport, a printer and no real plan beyond seeing what life abroad had to offer. What followed was a 13-year journey through the UK and Singapore before eventually returning to Cape Town. Tracey grew up on Johannesburg's East Rand and spent 13 years running a design agency with her sister before deciding it was time to leave. In London, her original entrepreneurial plans didn't work out, and she eventually found her way into maritime recruitment, a career she has now been in for around 20 years. Singapore became a major part of her life. She ran a recruitment company there for seven years, built an international network and experienced a very different way of living. Eventually, however, her heart was pulling her back to South Africa. In this episode, Tracey talks honestly about leaving South Africa, the realities of starting again overseas, the cost of living in London, Singapore's safety and efficiency, healthcare, building an international career, and why she ultimately chose Cape Town. We also discuss the role of family, the idea that the grass is always greener somewhere else, and how technology has made it possible for Tracey to continue recruiting internationally while living in South Africa. _______________________________________________________________ SABLE INTERNATIONAL For over 30 years, Sable International has offered seamless solutions that simplify the complexities of cross-border movement and financial management, so that you can focus on what matters most: building your future beyond borders. Find out how Sable International can support your journey: https://bit.ly/3R3g1sy _______________________________________________________________ TIMESTAMPS 00:01 Introduction 01:15 Growing up in Johannesburg 02:36 Leaving South Africa in 2003 03:44 Arriving in London with a printer 04:17 Trying entrepreneurship in the UK 05:16 Finding maritime recruitment 06:13 Discovering the maritime industry 10:52 The cost of living in London 12:24 Adjusting to life overseas 13:05 Moving from London to Singapore 21:58 Healthcare in London and Singapore 23:27 Why Singapore works so well 29:47 Building a recruitment company in Singapore 30:19 Returning to South Africa 30:52 Working internationally from Cape Town 32:10 Why family pulled her home 32:47 Is the grass really greener? 33:15 Choosing Cape Town 34:00 Building a life back in South Africa CONNECT WITH THE RELOCATED SOUTH AFRICAN The Relocated South African is the show for navigating emigration from South Africa for a better future. www.therelocatedsouthafrican.com Listen, subscribe and explore more stories from South Africans around the world. If Tracey's story resonated with you, please share this episode with another South African living abroad.
	From Durban to Budapest: A South African Finding Home in Hungary-Ep 88 with Connor Jackson	14 sept. 2026	00:43:55
Connor Jackson was born in Durban, spent much of his childhood in Tanzania, returned to South Africa, and then unexpectedly found himself building a life in Hungary. At 18, Connor went to Hungary on a Rotary exchange programme. He didn't choose Hungary as his first option, but what began as a one-year adventure became a life-changing experience. He returned to South Africa after the exchange, started studying at Stellenbosch University, but soon realised that he wanted to return to Hungary. He eventually moved back to Budapest, restarted his degree, learned Hungarian and began building a career there. In this episode, Connor talks about: Growing up in Tanzania and living in an expat mining community Arriving in Hungary with virtually no Hungarian The challenge of learning one of Europe's most difficult languages Returning to South Africa and discovering that he had changed Leaving Stellenbosch and moving back to Budapest Studying international relations and starting his career in Hungary Finding community through Muay Thai, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and rugby What life in Budapest is really like Safety, public transport and the cost of living Working for Hungarian companies The challenges of Hungarian immigration and bureaucracy Being forced to leave Hungary after a visa problem How a lawyer helped him return Why he recently became a Hungarian citizen Travelling and building a life across Europe Connor also explains why putting yourself out there is so important when you move abroad, and why joining a sports club or other community can be one of the best ways to make friends and build a new life. And despite becoming Hungarian, Connor says you never stop being South African. ______________________________________________________________ SUPPORTED BY SABLE INTERNATIONAL For over 30 years, Sable International has offered seamless solutions that simplify the complexities of cross-border movement and financial management, so that you can focus on what matters most: building your future beyond borders. Find out how Sable International can support your journey: https://bit.ly/3R3g1sy _______________________________________________________________ TIMESTAMPS 00:11 Welcome from Budapest 01:02 Growing up in Tanzania 03:43 Life in a Tanzanian gold-mining community 07:20 How Connor ended up in Hungary 09:08 Living with Hungarian host families 10:59 Arriving in Hungary with no Hungarian 13:35 Learning the Hungarian language 14:51 Returning to South Africa 16:28 Leaving Stellenbosch for Budapest 18:23 Studying and working in Hungary 19:12 Finding community through martial arts 21:35 Living in Hungary during COVID 23:44 Building a social life in Budapest 24:40 What Connor loves about Budapest 27:52 Cost of living in Hungary 30:50 Working in Budapest 32:42 Hungarian immigration and bureaucracy 35:23 Advice for South Africans considering Hungary 36:55 Becoming a Hungarian citizen 38:25 Travelling around Europe 40:00 Committing to your new life abroad 41:28 Braai, biltong and staying South African CONNECT WITH THE RELOCATED SOUTH AFRICAN www.therelocatedsouthafrican.com Listen to The Relocated South African on Spotify, YouTube and all major podcast platforms. If Connor's story resonated with you, please share this episode with another South African living abroad.
	From Green Card Lottery to HR Director: Starting Again in America-Ep 87 With Andreas Pyper	07 sept. 2026	00:55:03
Andreas Pyper's journey to America began almost by accident. In 1997, he and a group of friends entered the US Green Card Lottery as a joke. His wife Amanda won. A few years later, they packed up their lives in South Africa and moved to California. What followed was anything but easy. Andreas arrived in America as an experienced HR manager, but found himself starting again at the bottom. His first job was as an HR filing clerk. He had no US credit history, no professional network and no company waiting to welcome him. His wife also had to start over, completing the requirements to become licensed as a therapist in California. The first 18 months tested their family and their marriage. They experienced financial pressure, loneliness and uncertainty. Later, they lost their home during the 2008 financial crisis and had to rebuild again. But Andreas kept going. Today, 26 years after moving to the United States, he is a Human Resources Director for a large county organisation in California. He shares the practical lessons he learned along the way, from building a US credit history and choosing the right employer to understanding pensions, healthcare and the importance of accepting that you may have to take a few steps backwards before moving forward. Andreas also has some strong advice for South Africans considering America: build relationships with Americans, don't expect your South African career success to transfer immediately, be prepared to work your way up, and don't underestimate the importance of having a strong marriage and family partnership. This is an honest conversation about immigration, resilience, humility, career rebuilding, marriage and making a new life work. _______________________________________________________________ SABLE INTERNATIONAL For over 30 years, Sable International has offered solutions that simplify the complexities of cross-border movement and financial management, so you can focus on what matters most: building your future beyond borders. Find out how Sable International can support your journey: https://bit.ly/3R3g1sy _______________________________________________________________ TIMESTAMPS 00:17 Welcome and Andreas' life in California 02:32 Growing up in Durban and Cape Town 07:44 His political upbringing 09:13 University and national service 10:31 Working in HR and the Green Card Lottery 11:16 How his wife won the Green Card Lottery 13:16 Discovering California 16:07 His father's life after politics 17:10 How the Green Card process worked 19:19 Leaving family behind 21:02 Starting again in America 24:29 Building a US credit history 28:25 His wife's professional re-licensing 29:30 The difficult first 18 months 35:29 Immigration and marriage 37:25 Losing their home during the financial crisis 42:24 Building their lives again 42:41 The importance of government jobs and pensions 45:10 Healthcare in America 47:02 The biggest mistakes South Africans make 49:25 Advice for anyone considering emigrating 52:45 The one thing he would have done differently CONNECT WITH THE RELOCATED SOUTH AFRICAN www.relocatedsouthafrican.com If this episode resonated with you, please share it with another South African considering life abroad.
	22 Years in Japan: Why This South African Still Wants to Go Home-Ep 87 with James WhelanEp	03 sept. 2026	00:46:11
James Whelan was born and raised in Johannesburg before moving to London in 1998. Five years later, after meeting his Japanese partner, he moved to Japan for what was supposed to be one year. More than two decades later, he's still there. James is now married, has three children, works in recruitment and has permanent residency in Japan. But despite building a successful life in Tokyo, he still feels a powerful connection to South Africa and says that if circumstances allowed it, he would move back home tomorrow. In this episode, James shares the reality of life in Japan as a South African. We talk about moving from Johannesburg to London and then Japan, the culture shock of arriving in Japan, living there without fluent Japanese, finding work, Japanese working culture, raising children in Tokyo, safety, healthcare, the cost of living, public transport, Japanese food and what it feels like to remain a foreigner after more than 20 years. We also explore whether Japan has really become home for James, his connection to South Africa and his thoughts about eventually returning. _______________________________________________________________ SABLE INTERNATIONAL For over 30 years, Sable International has offered seamless solutions that simplify the complexities of cross-border movement and financial management, so that you can focus on what matters most: building your future beyond borders. Find out how Sable International can support your journey: https://bit.ly/3R3g1sy _______________________________________________________________ TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Introduction 00:23 Growing up in Johannesburg 03:05 Moving to London 03:11 From London to Japan 05:00 Learning Japanese 08:43 Culture shock 11:32 Settling into Japan 13:00 Permanent residency 14:46 His children and South Africa 16:23 Working in Japan 18:31 Visas and red tape 20:23 Japanese work culture 24:02 Life in Tokyo 25:43 Safety in Japan 28:14 Food and adapting to Japanese cuisine 31:19 Healthcare 33:03 Cost of living 35:24 Public transport and cars 37:16 Family and leisure 40:14 Is Japan home? 42:52 What James would tell his younger self 45:01 Final thoughts CONNECT WITH THE RELOCATED SOUTH AFRICAN The Relocated South African is the show for navigating emigration from South Africa for a better future. www.therelocatedsouthafrican.com Listen, subscribe and explore more stories from South Africans around the world. If James's story resonated with you, please share this episode with another South African living abroad.
	27 Years in America: Why He's Building a Base Back in South Africa-Ep 86 with Andries Coetzee	31 août 2026	00:54:21
Andries Coetzee left South Africa for the United States in 1999 to do a PhD. His plan was simple: complete his studies and return home. Instead, 27 years later, he is still in America. After completing his PhD at the University of Massachusetts, Andries joined the University of Michigan, where he has built a successful academic career. What began as a temporary move became a life in the United States. But his connection to South Africa never disappeared. After becoming an American citizen, Andries found that his South African identity became more important to him. His research shifted towards South Africa and Africa, and regular visits home gradually strengthened his desire to maintain a deeper connection with the country he left behind. A powerful experience during a University of Michigan orchestra trip to Soweto finally convinced him that he wanted a second base in South Africa. He has now bought a property in the Stellenbosch area and is considering spending much more of his time there after retirement. In this episode we discuss leaving South Africa, adapting to American academic life, the differences between South African and American universities, life in Ann Arbor, the cost of living and healthcare, South African identity abroad, and what it means to be at home in two countries. We also talk about Andries' optimism about Africa's future and why he believes more South African and African students should consider postgraduate study in the United States. Most importantly, this is a conversation about something many emigrants eventually discover: you can build a successful life somewhere else without losing your connection to where you came from. "As an expat, you're at home in two places, but not really fully at home in one." _____________________________________________________________ For over 30 years, Sable International has offered seamless solutions that simplify the complexities of cross-border movement and financial management, so that you can focus on what matters most – building your future beyond borders. Find out how Sable International can support your journey: https://bit.ly/3R3g1sy _______________________________________________________________ TIMESTAMPS 00:06 – Why Andries went to America in 1999 03:04 – Growing up in rural Limpopo 04:08 – Adjusting to the American university system 08:37 – From PhD student to professor at Michigan 11:00 – Why he didn't return to South Africa 14:48 – Family, loss and building a life in America 18:53 – The South African "soft landing" 20:32 – Why Africa became important again 24:42 – His optimism about Africa's future 27:11 – Why he's considering a base in South Africa 31:02 – The Soweto experience that changed his thinking 34:06 – Buying a property in Stellenbosch 34:41 – Could he eventually return permanently? 38:07 – Retirement, money and exchange rates 40:33 – Healthcare in America and South Africa 43:43 – Afrikaans, culture and identity 46:57 – Being at home in two countries 48:38 – Advice for students considering America CONNECT WITH ANDRIES COETZEE University of Michigan Email: kutsiya@umich.edu Andries also offers workshops and guidance to African students interested in studying in the United States. CONNECT WITH THE RELOCATED SOUTH AFRICAN www.therelocatedsouthafrican.com The Relocated South African – available on Spotify and all major podcast platforms. If Andries' story resonated with you, please share this episode with another South African living abroad.
	From Johannesburg to Australia: Why Olaf Duve Chose to Start Again-EP 86	27 août 2026	00:43:33
Olaf Duve has lived in four countries, built an international career and ultimately settled in Sydney with his wife and three children. Growing up in Johannesburg, Olaf left South Africa at 18 to study in Germany before spending eight years in the UK. After a decade in Europe, he returned to South Africa to join his family's logistics business, eventually helping grow and sell the company. Then, with three young children, a casual conversation over a braai planted the idea of Australia. Olaf had never even visited Australia. He booked a flight, spent a week interviewing for jobs and, three months later, moved his family to Sydney. Nearly ten years later, Australia is home. In this conversation, Olaf talks honestly about the realities of moving countries with a young family, why the first two years can be the hardest, the challenges of adapting to Australian working culture, the cost of living, family left behind in South Africa, and why South Africans shouldn't automatically assume that emigration is the right answer. We also discuss why Australia feels surprisingly familiar to South Africans, the importance of integrating into your new country, and what Olaf would tell someone considering making the move today. His advice is refreshingly balanced: don't leave simply because everyone else is leaving. Make sure the move is right for your family and go in with your eyes wide open. "Just be grateful and don't get so stressed... appreciate the decision you've made and enjoy the benefits of where you are." ______________________________________________________________ For over 30 years Sable International has offered seamless solutions that simplify the complexities of cross-border movement and financial management, so that you can focus on what matters most – building your future beyond borders. Find out how Sable International can support your journey: https://bit.ly/3R3g1sy _______________________________________________________________ TIMESTAMPS 00:06 – Introducing Olaf Duve 00:41 – Growing up in Johannesburg 01:38 – Having a German passport 02:26 – Moving to Germany and then the UK 05:29 – Why he eventually returned to South Africa 06:00 – Starting his career in logistics 08:37 – The conversation that sparked the move to Australia 09:30 – Moving to Australia with three young children 11:00 – Australia's visa and skills requirements 12:05 – The first two years with a family 14:24 – Why Australia feels familiar to South Africans 17:15 – The South African community in Australia 20:48 – The cost of living in Australia 25:33 – Deciding that Australia was home 28:00 – The challenge of ageing parents back in South Africa 31:02 – Australian versus South African working culture 36:38 – Will he ever return to South Africa? 39:13 – The advice he'd give his younger self 40:37 – Should young families emigrate? Connect with Olaf Duve LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/olaf-duve-889893109/ Connect with The Relocated South African 🌍 www.therelocatedsouthafrican.com 🎙️ The Relocated South African — available on Spotify and all major podcast platforms. If Olaf's story resonated with you, share this episode with someone considering a move to Australia—or someone trying to decide whether emigration is right for their family.
	From Johannesburg to America: Taking Americans to Play Golf in South Africa-Ep 84 with Murray Collier	24 août 2026	00:44:31
When Murray Collier left South Africa for the United States, the plan was simple: gain some international experience and eventually decide what came next. Reality turned out to be very different. Despite a strong career in South Africa, Murray spent 18 months searching for work after arriving in Chicago. It was a lonely and financially difficult period that tested both him and his wife. From sharing a tiny studio apartment with Airbnb guests to eventually building a successful corporate career, his story is one of resilience, determination and starting again from scratch. Today, Murray has combined his passion for golf with his love for South Africa by founding South Africa Golf Tours, introducing American golfers to the country's world-class golf courses, spectacular wildlife, incredible food and wine, and unforgettable hospitality. In this episode, we discuss the realities of emigrating to the United States, overcoming loneliness, adapting to American life, raising a family abroad, and why South Africans continue to make an impact wherever they go. We also explore why South Africa remains one of the world's greatest golf and safari destinations—and why so many American visitors return home with a completely different view of the country. It's an inspiring conversation about perseverance, identity and discovering that sometimes the best way to appreciate where you come from is to see it through someone else's eyes. "I'm South African first... I get to stand with a foot on each continent." _______________________________________________________________ For over 30 years Sable International has offered seamless solutions that simplify the complexities of cross-border movement and financial management, so that you can focus on what matters most – building your future beyond borders. Find out how Sable International can support your journey: https://bit.ly/3R3g1sy ______________________________________________________________ TIMESTAMPS 00:00 – Introducing Murray Collier 01:08 – Growing up in Johannesburg and studying at Stellenbosch 02:30 – Moving to Chicago 05:15 – Eighteen months without finding a job 08:00 – Loneliness and adapting to life in America 10:30 – Chicago winters and moving to Connecticut 12:10 – Financial struggles and renting out their apartment 18:10 – The South African community in the US 21:20 – Why he started South Africa Golf Tours 24:00 – Selling South Africa to American travellers 27:10 – Creating luxury golf and safari experiences 35:30 – Leopard Creek, Rovos Rail and Gary Player 39:10 – Building relationships with American golf clubs 41:20 – Americans' biggest misconception about South Africa 43:10 – Seeing South Africa through American eyes 46:30 – Would he ever move back? 48:10 – Advice for South Africans considering the USA Connect with Murray Collier 🌍 Website: www.southafricagolftours.com 💼 LinkedIn: Murray Collier 📸 Instagram / X: @SouthAfricaGolfTours Connect with The Relocated South African 🌍 Website www.therelocatedsouthafrican.com 🎙️ Listen on Spotify and all major podcast platforms. If Murray's story resonated with you, please share this episode with someone considering a move to the United States—or anyone passionate about golf, travel and showcasing the very best of South Africa.
	From South Africa to Malta: Finding Opportunity on a Mediterranean Island	20 août 2026	00:44:47
When Merle-Louise first arrived in Malta, she wanted to get straight back on the plane. Fifteen years later, she can't imagine calling anywhere else home. After building a successful career in hospitality, event management and running her own conference business in South Africa, Merle-Louise faced difficult business challenges that ultimately led her to consider a new chapter overseas. What began as a reluctant move has become a passionate mission to help other South Africans discover opportunities on one of Europe's best-kept secrets. Today, through MaltaLifestyle.com and the South African Family & Friends in Malta community, she assists South Africans looking to relocate, study, work or retire in Malta, while helping them navigate the practical and emotional realities of starting over. In this episode, we explore why Malta has become an increasingly attractive destination for South Africans, its thriving financial services, gaming, aviation and tourism industries, residency options, healthcare, education, property, safety and quality of life. We also discuss one of the biggest challenges of emigration—making the decision itself. Merle-Louise shares practical advice on preparing for a move, avoiding common mistakes, embracing change, and why success abroad begins long before you board the plane. Whether you're actively considering emigration or simply curious about life in the Mediterranean, this conversation is packed with practical insights and honest advice. "Success has to be intentional. We can't wait for somebody else to make up their mind for us." _______________________________________________________________ For over 30 years Sable International has offered seamless solutions that simplify the complexities of cross-border movement and financial management, so that you can focus on what matters most – building your future beyond borders. Find out how Sable International can support your journey: https://bit.ly/3R3g1sy _______________________________________________________________ TIMESTAMPS 00:06 – Introducing Merle-Louise and life in Malta 02:13 – Growing up in South Africa and building an events business 04:50 – Why she left South Africa 06:18 – First impressions of Malta 07:55 – Flying to Malta and its location in Europe 10:07 – Tourism, history and why Malta is unique 11:38 – Why Malta became home 15:10 – The importance of integrating into your new country 17:13 – Preparing properly before emigrating 18:17 – Should you leave a back door open? 20:32 – What South Africans struggle with most overseas 22:04 – Is Malta still a good option? 25:50 – Residency, citizenship and permanent residence 28:40 – Cost of living, rentals and healthcare 30:25 – What she misses about South Africa 32:25 – Helping young South Africans build international careers 35:34 – The emotional price of emigration 39:07 – Advice for anyone considering a move abroad 41:36 – Would she ever return to South Africa? Connect with Merle-Louise 🌍 Website: www.maltalifestyle.com Facebook: South African Family & Friends in Malta (SAFF Malta) Connect with The Relocated South African 🌍 Website: www.therelocatedsouthafrican.com 🎙️ Listen on Spotify and all major podcast platforms. If Merle-Louise's story inspired you, please share this episode with someone considering a move abroad—or anyone curious about life in Malta, one of Europe's hidden gems.
	From Dubai Back to South Africa: Why This Doctor Came Home-Ep 82 with Casper Joubert	17 août 2026	00:39:29
Most South African doctors leave. Dr. Casper Joubert did the opposite. After qualifying at Stellenbosch University, Casper and his wife—also a doctor—built successful medical careers in Dubai before moving to Mauritius. Like many South African professionals, they embraced the opportunities that came with working overseas. But after more than a decade abroad, they made a surprising decision. They came home. Today, Casper is completing his specialist training in Occupational Medicine at Tygerberg Hospital in Cape Town, where he believes South Africa still offers some of the best medical training and greatest opportunities to make a meaningful difference. In this conversation we discuss life as a doctor in Dubai, practicing medicine in Mauritius, the realities of working in different healthcare systems, why South African doctors are so highly regarded around the world, and the emotional journey of returning home after more than ten years abroad. Most importantly, Casper explains why he believes young South African professionals should travel the world—not to run away from South Africa, but to broaden their horizons before deciding where they truly belong. It's an honest, balanced conversation about career, purpose, perspective and what "coming home" really means. "If you've got the opportunity to go, go—but run towards something, not away from something." ___________________________________________________________ For over 30 years Sable International has offered seamless solutions that simplify the complexities of cross-border movement and financial management, so that you can focus on what matters most – building your future beyond borders. Find out how Sable International can support your journey: https://bit.ly/3R3g1sy ______________________________________________________________ Timestamps 00:10 – Introducing Dr. Casper Joubert 01:20 – Growing up and studying medicine at Stellenbosch 02:30 – Why he left South Africa for Dubai 05:30 – Building a medical career in the Middle East 09:10 – Living and working in Dubai 13:20 – Cost of living and life as an expat doctor 19:30 – Moving to Mauritius 23:20 – Living through COVID in Mauritius 25:20 – Why the family returned to South Africa 27:45 – What Occupational Medicine actually is 29:20 – South African doctors on the world stage 33:20 – Advice for young doctors considering emigration 36:20 – Readjusting to life back in South Africa Contact Casper LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/casper-joubert-a45836ab/ The Relocated South African 🌍 Website www.therelocatedsouthafrican.com 🎙️ Available on Spotify and all major podcast platforms. If Casper's story resonated with you, please share this episode with someone considering a career overseas—or someone wondering whether coming home is still an option.
	From Cape Town to the Netherlands: Taking a Leap into a New Life-Ep 81 with Wendy Minnie	13 août 2026	00:41:45
What happens when opportunity knocks later in life? Do you stay where you're comfortable—or do you take the leap? For Wendy Minnie and her family, the answer was clear. After successful careers in South Africa, Wendy and her husband spent more than a year researching life in the Netherlands before making one of the biggest decisions of their lives. With a teenage son, adult daughters, and decades of life already established in South Africa, this wasn't a decision made lightly. Today, Wendy works for Heineken in the Netherlands, where she has embraced a truly global career while discovering the realities of learning a new culture, adapting to Dutch life, and building a future in Europe. In this episode, we talk about relocating as an established professional, raising teenagers abroad, navigating the Dutch education system, buying a home, work-life balance, cost of living, learning Dutch, and why South Africans have earned a reputation for being some of the hardest-working people in the world. This is an honest conversation about courage, preparation, family, and proving that it's never too late to start a new chapter. "If you've got the opportunity and there's a part of you that's curious to know what life could be like somewhere else, take the jump. And if it doesn't work out, you can always go home." _______________________________________________________________ For over 30 years, Sable International has helped South Africans navigate visas, immigration, citizenship, foreign exchange and international financial planning. Whether you're planning your move abroad or already living overseas, Sable International has the expertise to help make your journey easier. Find out more: https://bit.ly/3R3g1sy _______________________________________________________________ Timestamps 00:10 – Introducing Wendy Minnie 00:54 – Growing up in Cape Town and Pretoria 02:00 – Why the family chose the Netherlands 03:30 – Joining Heineken after Distell 05:00 – Schooling, learning Dutch and settling in 07:30 – Language, culture and everyday life 08:30 – Visas, relocation and Dutch bureaucracy 11:20 – Choosing where to live in the Netherlands 12:45 – Working for a global company 14:20 – Do South Africans work harder? 16:00 – Why they decided to emigrate 18:20 – Family, adult children and opportunity 19:10 – Residency and Dutch citizenship 20:30 – The emotional first six months 25:00 – Cycling, commuting and Dutch life 26:15 – Cost of living in the Netherlands 31:15 – Housing and buying a home 33:20 – What Wendy misses most about South Africa 36:20 – Would she do anything differently? 38:10 – Advice for South Africans considering the move 🌍 Website: www.therelocatedsouthafrican.com 🎙️ Listen on Spotify and all major podcast platforms. If Wendy's journey resonated with you, please share this episode with someone considering a move abroad. Your support helps more South Africans around the world discover stories, insights and practical advice from people who have already taken the leap.
	From Johannesburg to Ireland: Building Community Far From Home-Ep 80 with Berilyn Teeling	10 août 2026	00:46:24
When Berilyn Teeling moved from South Africa to Ireland, she wasn't just looking for a better life—she ended up creating one of Ireland's largest celebrations of South African culture. After growing up in Johannesburg, spending a year as an exchange student in Paraguay and later marrying into an Irish family, Berilyn and her husband made the bold decision to relocate to Ireland with their young son and just three suitcases. Finding work during a recession wasn't easy, but through determination, resilience and a willingness to start again, they built a new life in County Wicklow. Today, Berilyn is best known as the founder of The South African Gathering—an annual event that brings together more than 1,500 South Africans from across Ireland to celebrate their heritage, reconnect with old friends and support South African businesses. In this episode we discuss the realities of starting over, raising children abroad, adapting to Irish life, finding work during difficult times, the cost of living, healthcare, and why maintaining your South African identity can be just as important as integrating into your new country. It's an uplifting conversation about community, belonging and proving that home isn't always a place—sometimes it's the people you bring together. "I wanted everyone to come out, have a good day, and just celebrate being South African for a day." _______________________________________________________________ For over 30 years Sable International has offered seamless solutions that simplify the complexities of cross-border movement and financial management, so that you can focus on what matters most – building your future beyond borders. Find out how Sable International can support your journey: https://bit.ly/3R3g1sy _______________________________________________________________ Time stamps 00:06 – Introducing Berilyn Teeling 00:57 – Growing up in Johannesburg 02:54 – Marriage, Ireland and taking the leap abroad 05:42 – Starting over with three suitcases 10:01 – Why Wicklow became home 11:51 – Finding work during Ireland's recession 16:27 – Adjusting to Irish weather and culture 19:16 – The story behind The South African Gathering 22:42 – From 200 people to more than 1,500 attendees 24:45 – Supporting South African businesses in Ireland 27:19 – Feeling South African while building a life abroad 28:42 – Family, parents and living across continents 34:40 – What makes Ireland such a great place to live 37:26 – The cost of living in Ireland 40:06 – Healthcare and everyday life 41:22 – Any regrets? 42:11 – Advice for South Africans considering Ireland 🇿🇦 South African Gathering Facebook: South African Gathering Ireland Website: https://www.sagathering.ie/ Podcast: Website:⁠www.therelocatedsouthafrican.com The Relocated South African – available on Spotify and all major podcast platforms. If Berilyn's story inspired you, please share this episode with someone considering a move to Ireland—or someone who simply wants to stay connected to their South African roots.
	From Cape Town to Brazil... and now Bali-Ep 79 with Janlo Van Den Heever	06 août 2026	00:43:00
From Cape Town to Brazil... and now Bali. Janlo van den Heever has never been afraid to challenge conventional thinking. After building a successful career with Red Bull in South Africa, he relocated to São Paulo, Brazil, before returning home to be closer to family. But the experience had changed him. He immersed himself in startups, technology, cryptocurrency and remote work, eventually asking a bigger question: If work is no longer tied to a location, why should life be? Today, Janlo, his wife and two daughters are building a new life in Bali, embracing a slower pace, homeschooling their children and creating businesses that allow them to work from anywhere. In this conversation we discuss life in Brazil, why they chose Southeast Asia over Europe, raising children abroad, the future of remote work, cost of living, healthcare, crypto, AI, and why South Africans should future-proof their skills in an increasingly global economy. It's a fascinating conversation about challenging assumptions, embracing change and intentionally designing the life you want. "The biggest thing standing in the way of South Africans being successful around the world is staying in South Africa." _______________________________________________________________ For over 30 years Sable International has offered seamless solutions that simplify the complexities of cross-border movement and financial management, so that you can focus on what matters most – building your future beyond borders. Find out how Sable International can support your journey: https://bit.ly/3R3g1sy ______________________________________________________________ Timestamps 00:11 – Introducing Janlo van den Heever 00:56 – Growing up in Pretoria 03:22 – Life with Red Bull and moving to Brazil 07:04 – Living in São Paulo and raising their first child 08:48 – Healthcare in Brazil 10:11 – Returning to South Africa 13:32 – Discovering startups, crypto and remote work 18:57 – Why the family chose Bali 20:24 – South Africa, safety and raising children 23:01 – Why Bali feels so different 26:48 – Cost of living in Bali 29:48 – Residency and visas 30:31 – Homeschooling and family life 32:31 – Healthcare in Indonesia 33:34 – Building a new community 35:46 – What he misses about South Africa 37:32 – Advice for South Africans considering life abroad Connect with Janlo: 🌐 Website: janlo.xyz 💼 LinkedIn: Janlo van den Heever Website: www.therelocatedsouthafrican.com Connect with the Podcast: The Relocated South African – available on Spotify and all major podcast platforms. If Janlo's story resonated with you, please share this episode with someone interested in remote work, raising a family abroad, or building a location-independent life.
	From Port Elizabeth to Melbourne: Building a New Life in Australia-Ep 78 with Duncan Goldsmith	03 août 2026	00:49:57
Duncan Goldsmith made the life-changing decision to leave South Africa in 1986—long before emigration became commonplace. Nearly four decades later, he reflects on what it really takes to build a successful life abroad. Born and raised in Port Elizabeth, Duncan began his career in banking before an opportunity in information technology opened the door to Australia. Arriving in Melbourne with his wife, two young children and little more than determination, he embraced a country that would eventually become home. In this candid conversation, Duncan shares the realities of emigrating before Facebook, WhatsApp and South African expat communities existed. There were no soft landings, no biltong shops and no online groups to answer questions—just the determination to make it work. We discuss the emotional cost of leaving family behind, adapting to a new culture, raising children in a different country, Australia's work ethic, cost of living, healthcare, taxes and why many South Africans struggle because they're trying to recreate the country they left. Whether you're considering Australia or already living abroad, Duncan's advice is practical, honest and shaped by nearly 40 years of experience. "If you're looking for South Africa in Australia, you'll be disappointed. Come with an open mind and make Australia your home." _______________________________________________________________ For over 30 years Sable International has offered seamless solutions that simplify the complexities of cross-border movement and financial management, so that you can focus on what matters most – building your future beyond borders. Find out how Sable International can support your journey: https://bit.ly/3R3g1sy _______________________________________________________________ TIMESTAMPS 00:01 – Introducing Duncan Goldsmith 00:30 – Growing up in Port Elizabeth 02:50 – Why he emigrated to Australia in 1986 05:38 – The emotional challenge of leaving family behind 09:02 – Parents, grandchildren and life across continents 14:07 – Why going back was never an option 15:30 – Starting over without a South African community 17:00 – The biggest mistakes South Africans make in Australia 20:24 – Why Melbourne became home 24:58 – Cost of living and buying property 30:37 – Healthcare, taxes and getting value for your money 34:20 – Do South Africans really move back? 37:00 – Practical advice for new migrants 39:30 – Safety in Australia today 41:30 – Should you visit before emigrating? 43:40 – Marriage, teamwork and adapting overseas 44:50 – Boks vs Wallabies: Who does he support? _______________________________________________________________ Your documents should not slow down your new life. Apostil obtains, processes and couriers South African police clearances, apostille certificates, unabridged documents and more, directly to your door, anywhere in the world. Fast, professional and stress-free. Need your documents sorted? Visit Apostil here: https://tinyurl.com/apostilcoza Documents with convenience. _______________________________________________________________ Connect with the podcast Website: www.therelocatedsouthafrican.com Podcast: The Relocated South African — available on Spotify and all major podcast platforms. If Duncan's story resonated with you, please share this episode with another South African considering a move to Australia—or anyone interested in what it really takes to build a successful life abroad.
	From Cape Town to China: A South African Author's New Chapter- Ep 77 with James Fouche	30 juil. 2026	00:47:12
Crime novelist, screenwriter and creative writing graduate James Fouché has swapped Cape Town for central China, where he's beginning a completely new chapter—not only in his career, but in his family's life. After years of building businesses in South Africa, publishing crime novels and teaching online, James made the leap to China to teach English at a medical university. His wife and three homeschooled children will soon join him, turning what began as a solo adventure into a family relocation. In this conversation, James shares what it's really like living in a part of China where almost nobody speaks English, adapting to a completely different culture, and preparing his family for one of the biggest moves of their lives. We also dive into his career as a crime writer, why South Africa provides such rich storytelling material, China's remarkable pace of development, and why stepping outside your comfort zone can change your perspective forever. It's an honest and fascinating conversation about creativity, family, and embracing the unknown. "It's a big world out there. You're doing your kids a disservice if you keep them in a tiny triangle." — James Fouché _______________________________________________________________ For over 30 years Sable International has offered seamless solutions that simplify the complexities of cross-border movement and financial management, so that you can focus on what matters most – building your future beyond borders. Find out how Sable International can support your journey: https://bit.ly/3R3g1sy _______________________________________________________________ TIMESTAMPS 00:01 – Introducing author James Fouché 03:22 – Growing up in Cape Town and becoming a writer 06:14 – Why he moved to China 08:30 – Turning South African crime into compelling fiction 13:48 – Releasing his latest novel Grey 16:22 – First impressions of living in China 18:31 – Preparing his family for the move 19:23 – Learning Chinese and overcoming the language barrier 21:30 – Teaching English at a Chinese university 22:58 – Adapting to Chinese food and culture 24:17 – Finding great coffee in central China 26:45 – China's emerging wine industry 28:29 – The surprisingly low cost of living 31:09 – Teaching at a medical university 32:51 – Chinese bureaucracy and work visas 35:51 – Healthcare and China's rapid development 38:39 – WeChat, Alipay and China's digital society 41:10 – What he misses most about South Africa 43:14 – Is China a long-term move? 45:01 – How living abroad changes your perspective _______________________________________________________________ Your documents should not slow down your new life. Apostil obtains, processes and couriers South African police clearances, apostille certificates, unabridged documents and more, directly to your door, anywhere in the world. Fast, professional and stress-free. Need your documents sorted? Visit Apostil here: https://tinyurl.com/apostilcoza Documents with convenience. _______________________________________________________________ Connect with James Fouché 🌐 Website: www.jamesfouche.com 📘 Facebook: @JamesFoucheWrites 📷 Instagram: @JamesFoucheWrites Connect with the podcast Website: www.therelocatedsouthafrican.com Podcast: The Relocated South African — available on Spotify and all major podcast platforms. If James' story resonated with you, please share this episode with someone considering life abroad—or anyone curious about living and working in China.
	From Pretoria to Poland: Finding Home in Unexpected Places-Ep 76 with Retha Jacobs	27 juil. 2026	00:49:33
After 25 years abroad, Retha Jacobs has built a life across three countries—but South Africa has never left her heart. Growing up in Pretoria, Retha took the road less travelled. She skipped university after school, moved to London with friends, later completed degrees in Human Movement Science and Neuroscience, and eventually found herself in Poland—a country she knew almost nothing about before falling in love with its mountains, culture and people. Over the past decade she's built businesses in tourism, coached squash, become fascinated by mushrooms, and embraced life in one of Europe's fastest-growing economies. In this conversation, Retha shares what it's really like living in Poland, learning one of the world's most difficult languages, building a business as a foreigner, and why, after 25 years overseas, she feels an even stronger pull back to South Africa. It's a fascinating look at a country few South Africans know—and a reminder that sometimes the longest journeys lead you back to your roots. "Life is so short, and there are so many places to see and people to meet. Every country changes you." — Retha Jacobs _______________________________________________________________ For over 30 years Sable International has offered seamless solutions that simplify the complexities of cross-border movement and financial management, so that you can focus on what matters most – building your future beyond borders. Find out how Sable International can support your journey: https://bit.ly/3R3g1sy _______________________________________________________________ TIMESTAMPS 00:01 – Introducing Retha Jacobs 00:57 – From Pretoria to London 04:22 – Why she moved to Poland 06:57 – Learning the Polish language 10:25 – Neuroscience, entrepreneurship and curiosity 11:32 – Building a tourism business in Poland 13:48 – Poland's national sport: mushroom picking 17:10 – Mushrooms, neuroscience and PTSD research 19:55 – Squash, sport and staying active 23:56 – What makes Poland unique 27:47 – Cost of living in Poland 32:42 – Healthcare and quality of life 35:50 – Business, bureaucracy and taxes 37:39 – Residency, passports and Brexit 41:39 – Missing South Africa after 25 years abroad 44:33 – Advice for South Africans considering emigration _____________________________________________________________ Your documents should not slow down your new life. Apostil obtains, processes and couriers South African police clearances, apostille certificates, unabridged documents and more, directly to your door, anywhere in the world. Fast, professional and stress-free. Need your documents sorted? Visit Apostil here: https://tinyurl.com/apostilcoza Documents with convenience. _______________________________________________________________ Connect with Retha Jacobs: https://www.linkedin.com/in/retha-jacobs-470b7355/ Connect with the podcast: Website: www.therelocatedsouthafrican.com Podcast: The Relocated South African — available on Spotify and all major podcast platforms. If Retha's story inspired you, please share this episode with someone considering a move abroad—or someone curious about life in Poland.
	From South Africa to the World: Lessons in Leadership and Life-Ep 75 with Dr Deepak Bhootra	23 juil. 2026	00:58:47
Dr. Deepak Bhootra spent 15 years building a career in South Africa before taking that experience across Singapore, India and eventually the United States. Born in India and raised around the world thanks to his father's work as a forensic pathologist, Deepak arrived in South Africa in the early 1990s and quickly discovered a country that would shape the rest of his life. Today he's based in Houston, where he coaches business leaders, entrepreneurs and sales professionals around the world. But despite living on three continents, he still credits South Africa for much of his work ethic, leadership philosophy and outlook on life. In this conversation, Deepak reflects on adapting to new cultures, earning trust, building a meaningful career, and why success is no longer measured by money—but by the lives you impact. It's a thoughtful conversation about identity, purpose and what emigrants can teach the world. "Success isn't about how much money you leave behind. It's about what people say about you when you're gone." — Dr. Deepak Bhootra _______________________________________________________________ For over 30 years Sable International has offered seamless solutions that simplify the complexities of cross-border movement and financial management, so that you can focus on what matters most – building your future beyond borders. Find out how Sable International can support your journey: https://bit.ly/3R3g1sy _______________________________________________________________ TIMESTAMPS 00:11 – Introducing Dr. Deepak Bhootra 01:06 – Life in Houston and surviving hurricanes 02:32 – How his family ended up in South Africa 06:12 – Falling in love with South Africa 07:38 – South Africans' unique sense of humour 10:09 – What South Africa taught him about work ethic 12:52 – Experiencing South Africa before democracy 17:02 – Leaving South Africa for Singapore 20:18 – Moving to India, then Houston 21:26 – Why South Africans succeed overseas 29:12 – Reinventing yourself after emigration 33:33 – Why trust is the foundation of success 37:42 – Leadership, balance and life beyond work 40:05 – How his definition of success changed forever 47:39 – "Grow Together. Rejoice Together." 51:00 – His message to South Africans living abroad 56:35 – Where to connect with Dr. Deepak Bhootra ____________________________________________________________ Your documents should not slow down your new life. Apostil obtains, processes and couriers South African police clearances, apostille certificates, unabridged documents and more, directly to your door, anywhere in the world. Fast, professional and stress-free. Need your documents sorted? Visit Apostil here: https://tinyurl.com/apostilcoza Documents with convenience. ______________________________________________________________ Connect with Dr. Deepak Bhootra: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/deepakbhootra Website: www.deepakbhootra.com Connect with the podcast: Website: www.therelocatedsouthafrican.com Podcast: The Relocated South African — available on Spotify and all major podcast platforms. If Deepak's story resonated with you, please share this episode with another South African navigating life abroad.
	Life's Way of Bringing You Magic —Ep 74 with Werner Trieloff	20 juil. 2026	00:47:52
Werner Trieloff left the Free State at 21, chased whiskey and languages through Scotland and London, then followed a Brazilian love story to Porto Alegre in 2008 with only enough Portuguese to order a beer. Nearly two decades later he runs a business connecting Africa, Brazil, Europe and the US — despite qualifying as a CA and never doing a single day of actual accounting since. Jan and Werner get into Brazil's brutal tax bureaucracy (rules can change ten times a day), the WhatsApp group of 55+ South Africans in Porto Alegre swapping milk tart recipes, and why joining a local rugby club and a motorbike gang did more for Werner's integration than any expat community ever could. "Life has got its way of bringing magic to you." — Werner Trieloff ____________________________________________________________ For over 30 years Sable International has offered seamless solutions that simplify the complexities of cross-border movement and financial management, so that you can focus on what matters most to you – building your future beyond borders.Find out how Sable International can support your journey: https://bit.ly/3R3g1sy _____________________________________________________________ TIMESTAMPS 00:10 – Welcome to Werner in Porto Alegre 00:52 – Where Porto Alegre sits in Brazil 01:53 – Free State roots, early moves abroad 03:11 – Meeting a Brazilian in Austria 03:52 – Learning Portuguese from scratch 04:55 – Whiskey connoisseur talk begins 05:33 – Talisker 18 and Japanese Hibiki 06:05 – From CA to management accounting 06:52 – Hired without speaking Portuguese 11:14 – Business grounding without doing accounting 11:49 – South Africa, easiest entry to Africa 12:46 – Africa's cultures vary country to country 13:23 – Comparing Brazil and South Africa culture 13:53 – Brazil's brutal tax complexity 15:04 – South Africans in Brazil WhatsApp group 16:57 – Continental Brazil, huge regional differences 18:43 – Regional food differences across Brazil 20:43 – Braai with just salt, no spice 21:04 – Physical safety versus South Africa 22:57 – Corruption and policing realities 24:52 – Public healthcare system SUS explained 26:35 – Visas, red tape, bureaucracy 27:35 – Company registration much faster now 30:42 – Biggest sacrifice: distance from family 34:09 – Advice: find a local sport 36:42 – Wife's adjustment to South Africa 37:37 – Cost of living in Brazil 38:58 – Minimum wage and daily prices 40:20 – Comparing prices to Portugal, UK 41:05 – Housing costs, apartment living 41:56 – Would he ever return to SA? 43:21 – Raising bicultural kids in Brazil 44:55 – Advice to his 22-year-old self 46:06 – How to connect with Werner _____________________________________________________________ Your documents should not slow down your new life. Apostil obtains, processes, and couriers South African police clearances, apostille certificates, unabridged documents, and more, directly to your door, anywhere in the world. Fast, professional, and stress-free. Need your documents sorted? Visit Apostil here - https://tinyurl.com/apostilcoza Documents with convenience. _____________________________________________________________ Connect with the podcast: Website: www.therelocatedsouthafrican.com Podcast: The Relocated South African — available on Spotify and all platforms Werner's on LinkedIn (Werner Trieloff) if you want to reach out about business in Brazil or planning a trip there. If this one hit home, send it to a fellow South African abroad — and follow the show wherever you listen.
	Five Years of Visa Limbo, No Couch Included —Ep 73 with Justin Levitt	16 juil. 2026	00:46:12
Justin Levitt grew up in Welkom and Cape Town, toured the country as guitarist in rock band Red Tape Riot, then built a career in SEO. In 2019 he followed a partner to the Netherlands, landing in Amsterdam just two weeks before COVID lockdown hit. What followed was six unsettled years: a relationship that didn't survive lockdown isolation, a company sponsorship that evaporated when the business went bankrupt, and a year spent without a couch because he never knew if his contract would be renewed. Justin talks candidly about finally getting permanent residency, the night in Paris when the Springboks won the 2023 World Cup semi-final, and why he's still proudly South African at heart. "I don't know if I'm going to have my contract renewed. So, you know, I'll just live with the bare minimum until I really know." — Justin Levitt ____________________________________________________________ For over 30 years Sable International has offered seamless solutions that simplify the complexities of cross-border movement and financial management, so that you can focus on what matters most to you – building your future beyond borders.Find out how Sable International can support your journey: ⁠https://bit.ly/3R3g1sy⁠ _____________________________________________________________ TIMESTAMPS: 00:26 – Guest intro: SEO specialist 00:37 – Growing up in Welkom, the Goldfields 01:04 – Welkom's famous traffic circle legend 01:41 – School, university, bands in Cape Town 03:22 – Landed in Netherlands, COVID hit 04:18 – Learning guitar, convincing parents 05:05 – Backing a solo artist, touring years 06:40 – Forming rock band Red Tape Riot 06:54 – Why music never became a career 08:06 – Jan's theory: SA diversity vs France 08:45 – Radio stations that once launched careers 10:35 – Still plays guitar daily 11:31 – What SEO actually means 13:38 – Expectations before leaving SA 14:53 – Netherlands isn't just a Dutch UK 15:31 – Better government, worse restaurants 15:59 – Afrikaans doesn't help much here 16:47 – Dutch switch to English instantly 17:10 – Dutch know little SA history 17:51 – Arrived days before lockdown 18:17 – Locked down in a small town 19:02 – Lockdown strain on relationship 20:06 – Dutch bureaucracy, organized online 21:25 – Working remotely through lockdown 22:17 – Never settled, five cities 23:56 – Relationship ended in 2022 24:50 – Biggest sacrifice: uncertainty 25:45 – No couch for a year 26:09 – No regrets despite the struggle 27:20 – Struggle as priceless life experience 28:57 – Dutch supermarkets' tiny meat sections 30:30 – Hard to crack Dutch friend groups 31:12 – South Africans seen as hardworking 32:29 – Strict 5pm cutoff culture 34:00 – Feels completely safe here 35:36 – Still proudly South African 38:31 – Who Holland suits best 40:24 – Surprised by SA's racial dynamics 40:51 – Advice: experience first, then leap 41:50 – Doesn't see himself moving back 42:08 – Realizing the weight he carried 42:42 – Misses family and biltong most 43:35 – Best night: Paris 2023 World Cup semi _____________________________________________________________ Your documents should not slow down your new life. Apostil obtains, processes, and couriers South African police clearances, apostille certificates, unabridged documents, and more, directly to your door, anywhere in the world. Fast, professional, and stress-free. Need your documents sorted? Visit Apostil here -⁠⁠https://tinyurl.com/apostilcoza⁠⁠ Documents with convenience. _____________________________________________________________ Connect with the podcast: Website: [www.therelocatedsouthafrican.com](https://www.therelocatedsouthafrican.com) Podcast: The Relocated South African — available on Spotify and all platforms Loved Justin's story? Share this episode with someone weighing their own move abroad.
	From Johannesburg Burglaries to 30 Years a Kiwi — Ep 72 with Jenny Forest Angel	13 juil. 2026	00:35:06
In this episode of The Relocated South African, I sit down with Jenny Forest Angel, who moved from Johannesburg to Wellington, New Zealand in 1997 with a 20-month-old and a 3-year-old in tow — no internet, just fax machines and expensive phone calls. Nearly 30 years on, Jenny's sons are thriving, her late parents followed her out and are buried in New Zealand, and she says she'd do it all again without hesitation. We talk about the break-in that finally pushed the decision, the 18 months it took to feel settled, the "green stars on the calendar" trick she used to track her hardest days, and why she'll never send a car or a dining room table overseas again. For over 30 years Sable International has offered seamless solutions that simplify the complexities of cross-border movement and financial management, so that you can focus on what matters most to you – building your future beyond borders.Find out how Sable International can support your journey: ⁠https://bit.ly/3R3g1sy⁠ TIMESTAMPS 00:01 – Introducing Jenny Forest Angel, 30 years in Wellington 00:41 – What prompted leaving South Africa in 1997 00:54 – Five burglaries in 18 months and a safety tipping point 02:48 – The break-in that made them commit to going 03:15 – Selling the house, packing a truck — "what a mistake" 03:41 – Landing in NZ on 31 August 1997, the day Diana died 04:39 – Leaving parents and siblings behind 05:26 – How her parents adapted to a hard move at a late age 06:50 – "We were the lucky ones" 07:12 – Husband's contract ending and landing a NZ job offer 08:57 – Deciding to bring her parents across 09:08 – Sorting her parents' residency paperwork 10:24 – The brutally hard first year, no support networks 10:44 – Crying every day for three months 11:21 – The infamous fish and chips "scoops" story 12:25 – Fax machines twice a week, no Facebook groups 12:35 – Her parents packing up 40 years of life in four months 14:07 – The airport reunion and chocolate-ginger confetti 14:26 – Were her parents financially secure enough to move? 15:33 – How her sons adapted — school, university, careers 16:34 – Sons' success: actuarial science and a master's degree 16:47 – The key to success: green stars on a calendar, "don't give up" 17:49 – Settling financially, and a quirky job exploring Wellington 20:14 – South African pride vs. "no job's beneath me" overseas 20:58 – Would things have turned out the same in South Africa? 21:24 – All Black or Springbok supporter? 21:46 – A 2011 Rugby World Cup ticket mix-up story 23:18 – Making friends: Kiwis vs. fellow South Africans 23:47 – Why the "soft landing" myth doesn't guarantee friendship 24:56 – What she'd leave behind if she did it again 26:56 – The personality traits that make immigration succeed 27:23 – "You can't swim upstream" — adapting without losing yourself 29:10 – "As the plane took off, I knew we were here to stay" 29:20 – How long it took to feel safe again 29:40 – No security bars, no fear — leaving windows open 31:17 – Returning to SA in 2001, her kids' reaction to locked doors 32:11 – Kids playing freely — the value of living without fear 32:25 – Advice for parents on the fence about immigrating 33:06 – Why moving young helps, but older kids adapt too 34:00 – The shrinking window for older parents to immigrate today 34:24 – Her parents' legacy and why she never gave up ___________________________________________________________ Your documents should not slow down your new life. Apostil obtains, processes, and couriers South African police clearances, apostille certificates, unabridged documents, and more, directly to your door, anywhere in the world. Fast, professional, and stress-free. Need your documents sorted? Visit Apostil here -⁠⁠https://tinyurl.com/apostilcoza⁠⁠ Documents with convenience. _____________________________________________________________ Connect with the podcast: Website: www.therelocatedsouthafrican.com Podcast: The Relocated South African — available on Spotify and all platforms
	From Naboomspruit to Norway — Scrap Art & Viking Axes with Martiens Bekker .- Ep 71	09 juil. 2026	00:47:23
Martiens Bekker is a sculptor, blacksmith and multi-medium artist from Naboomspruit. He served in the SA Police Force, studied forestry, and built a career making scrap metal sculptures and film props for Warner Brothers and DreamWorks. In 2009 he moved to Cornwall, UK, where he ran a coffee shop, served on the Coast Guard rescue team, and sold art — including a piece to the drummer of Queen. A chance invitation brought the family to rural Norway in 2014, where they've lived ever since. Martiens became a Norwegian citizen in 2024. ______________________________________________________________ Whatever taking your future global means for you, Sable International has the expertise to unlock what the world has to offer. With cross-border services spanning visas, second passports, tax, wealth planning, forex and studying abroad, they'll simplify the complexities so that you can focus on what matters most to you – building your future, beyond borders. Ready to take your future global? Connect with Sable International today: https://bit.ly/3R3g1sy Timestamps 00:44 — Introduction: calling in from the mountains of Telemark, Norway 03:16 — Growing up in Naboomspruit, a family of Springbok athletes, and losing his father at age four 03:68 — Police force, forestry, Israel — finding his path back in South Africa 04:35 — Meeting his wife outside Cape Town and deciding to leave in 2009 05:35 — Life in Cornwall: coffee shop, Coast Guard, exhibitions — and worrying about British youth culture 07:26 — How Norway happened: a sawmill invitation that fell through, and a school principal who convinced them to stay 09:17 — SA → UK (2009) → Norway (2014) — and a visa battle with the Home Office involving a court case 11:41 — Becoming a Norwegian citizen in 2024 and the language test 13:20 — Which move was harder? Why he'd tell South Africans: "Find somewhere they speak English first" 15:07 — What Norway gets right: unlocked doors, great healthcare, open-source tax transparency 17:24 — The scrap metal art: making props for Warner Brothers and DreamWorks from a Cape Town workshop 23:29 — The Falmouth market story: selling a fish made from pick handles to the drummer of Queen 27:49 — Living with narcolepsy, diagnosed after sepsis in 2016 29:30 — Winter income: copper jewelry, firewood for a traditional bakery, and a heritage market in Mjønøy 31:56 — The price of immigration: reuniting with his brother in California after 16 years apart 36:12 — Why they left: giving the boys a better chance — and what that cost in family connections 37:10 — Would he do it again? His son thanked him for getting him out of Cornwall 38:12 — What he lost: his heart is still in South Africa, but his mind can't align with what he sees there now 39:43 — Could he go back? A brother-in-law's farm and a nephew with Angelman syndrome 41:22 — Advice for young South Africans: understand passive income, tax, and build a foundation 43:28 — Final advice: don't set expectations too high — every country has its problems Quote of the Episode "The grass is greener on the other side — you know why? Because there's more sht there."* — Martiens Bekker Links & Resources Martiens Bekker — Instagram: search MJ Bekker or Martiens Bekker BBC Autumnwatch -https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DowbAXSquqA More conversations. More destinations. More stories of South Africans navigating life abroad. Explore the full episode library at http://therelocatedsouthafrican.com. _______________________________________________________________ Your documents should not slow down your new life. Apostil obtains, processes, and couriers South African police clearances, apostille certificates, unabridged documents, and more, directly to your door, anywhere in the world. Fast, professional, and stress-free. Need your documents sorted? Visit Apostil here -⁠https://tinyurl.com/apostilcoza⁠ Documents with convenience. _______________________________________________________________
	From Kempton Park to Kent — Crime, Courage & Coaching Expats with Kerry Deamer- Ep 70	06 juil. 2026	00:41:25
Kerry grew up in Kempton Park, playing cricket and hockey his whole life before building a bulk tanker business with his wife on the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast. After years battling fuel theft syndicates and escalating personal threats, he made the call to move his family to the UK in July 2019 — arriving just months before COVID-19 turned everything upside down. Now, drawing on five years of hard-won expat experience, Kerry has retrained as a life coach to help South Africans navigate the emotional realities of emigration — before, during, and after the move._______________________________________________________________ Whatever taking your future global means for you, Sable International has the expertise to unlock what the world has to offer. With cross-border services spanning visas, second passports, tax, wealth planning, forex and studying abroad, they'll simplify the complexities so that you can focus on what matters most to you – building your future, beyond borders.Ready to take your future global? Connect with Sable International today: https://bit.ly/3R3g1sy _______________________________________________________________Timestamps00:06 — Jan introduces Kerry and sets the scene: Kent, just outside London01:13 — Growing up in Kempton Park.01:40 — Building a bulk tanker business from scratch.03:47 — The moment everything changed.04:43 — The reality of transport crime in South Africa.06:06 — Impact on the kids.07:04 — Moving as a team.07:57 — Arriving in July 2019.09:32 — When reality sets in.10:59 — Cost of living surprises.12:44 — Making friends in the UK.15:30 — Did they ever consider going back? 16:43 — What Kerry found personally hardest.18:50 — The pivot to life coaching: from trucks to transformation.20:33 — Jan on the broader need.22:08 — Kerry's coaching business.23:10 — Why focus on South Africans specifically? 25:03 — The two biggest struggles Kerry sees.26:29 — Identity loss and cultural shock.28:19 — Are people regretting emigrating? 30:13 — Wrong reasons to emigrate.32:45 — How to make a better decision: 33:33 — Practical advice for new arrivals.35:28 — Sitting on the fence? 36:55 — Pushed vs pulled.37:59 — How to reach Kerry: kerrydeamer@icloud.com (website coming soon)Quote of the Episode"Stop digging the hole. Just take account of where you are in life, how you got there, and understand what needs to change — to make change." — Kerry DeamerKey Takeaways* Don't emigrate out of frustration. Decisions made from a negative, exhausted mindset rarely lead to the outcome you're hoping for.* The hardest part of the move isn't the logistics — it's the loneliness. Deep friendships take years to build, and the UK makes it harder than most.* You have to assimilate, not replicate. Trying to recreate South African life in the UK will leave you disappointed.* If you've just arrived, get involved — sports clubs, volunteering, community. Don't wait for people to come to you.* The story you're telling yourself about why you left matters. Make sure it's true.If this episode resonated with you, please share it with someone who needs to hear it. Don't forget to follow and rate The Relocated South African wherever you listen to podcasts._______________________________________________________________Your documents should not slow down your new life. Apostil obtains, processes, and couriers South African police clearances, apostille certificates, unabridged documents, and more, directly to your door, anywhere in the world.Fast, professional, and stress-free. Need your documents sorted? Visit Apostil here -⁠https://tinyurl.com/apostilcoza⁠Documents with convenience. ______________________________________________________________More conversations. More destinations. More stories of South Africans navigating life abroad. Explore the full episode library at http://therelocatedsouthafrican.com.
	From Cape Town to Prince George and Back with Monty Stephenson-Ep 69	02 juil. 2026	01:00:46
Monty Stephenson, chartered accountant (South Africa and Canada), business leader, and director of the Solulo Foundation. Monty grew up in Plettenberg Bay and qualified as a CA with Deloitte Johannesburg before emigrating to Prince George, British Columbia in 1996. Over ten years he built a senior career in audit, raised a family of three daughters, and came within six months of making partner — before making the emotional decision to return to Cape Town for family. He and his wife Cathy have now lived in Cape Town for 20 years and recently reclaimed their South African citizenship. Quote of the Episode “We never left South Africa angry. We left to go and experience a different culture — and fell in love with the country. But we’re committed South Africans.” — Monty Stephenson For over 30 years Sable International has offered seamless solutions that simplify the complexities of cross-border movement and financial management, so that you can focus on what matters most to you – building your future beyond borders.Find out how Sable International can support your journey: https://bit.ly/3R3g1sy Timestamps 00:00 — Welcome & intro. 03:29 — How the move to Canada happened: a chance conversation at a hotel in Joburg led to a call from Deloitte Canada . 06:40 — Cathy's struggle to find work as an occupational therapist in Canada. 11:01 — On Canadians: their warmth is earned, not automatic. 15:00 — The first 18 months were tough. 20:40 — How a planned two-year stay became ten — and what that meant for family left behind in South Africa. 25:12 — Monty's mom visited Canada and her peace at seeing their life there. 33:15 — The difficult decision to leave. 39:02 — How they ended up back: an impromptu interview in Joburg organised by his brother-in-law, then one in Cape Town the next day — and a job offer from Ernst & Young on the spot. 45:00 — The final push to say yes: 46:08 — Reintegrating into South Africa. Early months in Camps Bay were a shock — the crime headlines hit hard. But within three months they found their feet and reconnected with community. 50:07 — Monty's philosophy on safety: "There's one criminal in our community and 99 of us are sitting inside letting him own the street. Let the 99 go outside and be connected — and he'll move on." 52:00 — Monty's involvement with the Solulo Foundation, supporting township and rural entrepreneurs. 58:37 — His eldest daughter is now back from London. His advice: go, explore, get your Canadian passport, and come back if South Africa calls you. 01:02:50 — A message to South Africans abroad: "Please don't crash us overseas. 01:03:53 — Wrap-up and sign-off. _____________________________________________________________ Your documents should not slow down your new life. Apostil obtains, processes, and couriers South African police clearances, apostille certificates, unabridged documents, and more, directly to your door, anywhere in the world. Fast, professional, and stress-free. Need your documents sorted? Visit Apostil here -⁠https://tinyurl.com/apostilcoza⁠ Documents with convenience. _____________________________________________________________ More conversations. More destinations. More stories of South Africans navigating life abroad. Explore the full episode library at http://therelocatedsouthafrican.com.
	From Alberton to London to Langebaan with Dale Anderson-Episode 68	29 juin 2026	00:47:04
Dale grew up in Alberton and on a farm in Walkerville, Johannesburg. Armed with a British passport and a bass guitar, he landed in London in 2002 with little more than a suitcase and £100. Over 16+ years he built a career in real estate, raised over £1.5 billion in property transactions, and won multiple industry awards — before returning to South Africa just weeks before COVID-19 lockdown. He now lives in Langebaan, Western Cape, and runs RGA Global, helping investors diversify into offshore property markets. Timestamps 00:05 — Jan introduces Dale and the Lekker Network connection 01:40 — Dale's early life: Alberton, a farm in Walkerville, and playing in bands 02:01 — Landing in London in 2002 with a British passport and a dream — working factories, call centres, and finding his feet 03:42 — The South African community in Wimbledon and the early 2000s working holiday visa era 04:17 — Life in London: braais, band gigs, and the hard realities of cost of living 05:13 — Bass guitar, the band Starseed, and gigging at the Clapham Grand 06:44 — Was the UK always temporary? Jan asks whether Dale always planned to come back 07:55 — Starting from the bottom: minimum wage jobs, a shared flat with a coin-operated shower, and a pivotal moment on Wimbledon High Street that launched his property career 13:32 — Character-building hardship: was there ever a moment they nearly quit and went home? 15:30 — A crossroads: Dale's wife packs up and leaves — and then things turn around 16:23 — Resigning from a six-figure job, twin daughters born, and the decision to return to South Africa 17:24 — Moving to Langebaan two months before COVID — setting up a remote company right as the world went into lockdown 18:03 — Did Dale need the UK to get to where he is today? 21:02 — The biggest misconceptions South Africans have about moving to the UK 23:27 — Red tape and reintegration: tax, IDs, schools, banking, and why the first three to six months are the hardest 27:29 — Safety and security: why Dale chose not to return to Joburg, and how he researched Langebaan's crime statistics before moving 30:18 — The positivity of the Lekker Network and why it matters for South Africa 30:51 — What Dale does today: offshore property investment, RGA Global, and his Fractional Sales Director role with Sable International 33:40 — Golden visas, rental yields, mortgages, and why UK property still makes financial sense for South African investors 35:43 — Is there offshore appetite for South African property? Cape Town's boom, semi-gration, and the long-term investment risks 39:04 — The digital nomad lifestyle: earning in pounds, living in South Africa, and why more people are asking Dale how to do it 40:42 — RGA Global launch: UK, Thailand, Mauritius, Bali — and a cautious watch on Dubai 41:43 — What Dale would do differently: less partying, sobriety, health, and discovering Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill 43:35 — Advice for young South Africans: should they go offshore? 45:47 — Closing thoughts: you can always come back Quote of the Episode "Focus on your faith, your business, your health, and becoming a man. You can have fun when you're young, but don't get carried away — next thing you realise you're burning a candle at both ends." — Dale Anderson Your documents should not slow down your new life. Apostil obtains, processes, and couriers South African police clearances, apostille certificates, unabridged documents, and more, directly to your door, anywhere in the world. Fast, professional, and stress-free. Need your documents sorted? Visit Apostil here -⁠https://tinyurl.com/apostilcoza⁠ Documents with convenience.
	From Pretoria to Oklahoma: A Pro Golfer's Journey with Martin Maritz-Ep 67	22 juin 2026	00:46:59
Martin Maritz grew up across the street from Loftus Versfeld in Pretoria, attended Affies, became a scratch golfer at 13, and earned a full golf scholarship to the University of Tulsa. He went on to play 300+ events across 47 countries on the Sunshine, European and Asian Tours, came agonisingly close to winning the Dunhill Championship (losing to Justin Rose in his first ever pro win), and played in the 2011 British Open. Since retiring in 2012 he has built a career in IT recruitment and launched Birdies & Bogeys Golf Gear - an apparel company with a charitable heart, giving back to the next generation of young golfers. Time Stamps 00:01 Welcome & Pretoria roots - Loftus, Affies, Blue Bulls rugby 02:17 How golf took over - caddying for his dad, scratch at 13 03:59 The road to Tulsa - junior championships, Trevor Immelman, Gary Player's phone call, and what a $70k scholarship really demands 10:00 Turning pro - Monday qualifiers, the Sunshine Tour springboard, and life on the road in 47 countries 11:44 The ones that got away - the Dunhill heartbreak and Loch Lomond meltdown 18:20 The unglamorous side of tour life - expenses, missed cuts, and the toll on family 25:49 Birdies & Bogeys Golf Gear - the brand, the logo, and why the name means everything 33:46 Life in Oklahoma - 30 years, extreme weather, cheap living, and a SA coffee shop that cures homesickness 42:35 Reflection - what he would do differently, and advice for young golfers 46:52 LIV Golf - why he is a fan and what he hopes for the tour's future Links Martin’s company: birdiesandbogiesgolfgear.com Connect with Martin on LinkedIn If this episode resonated with you, please share it with someone who needs to hear it. Don't forget to follow and rate The Relocated South African wherever you listen to podcasts. Your documents should not slow down your new life. Apostil obtains, processes, and couriers South African police clearances, apostille certificates, unabridged documents, and more, directly to your door, anywhere in the world. Fast, professional, and stress-free. Need your documents sorted? Visit Apostil here -⁠https://tinyurl.com/apostilcoza⁠ Documents with convenience.
	From Cape Town to Canada: A Global Executive Journey with Steve Felder - EP 66	15 juin 2026	00:57:22
Steve Felder is a South African global executive who has lived and worked across five continents over 25 years — from Cape Town to Joburg, Pittsburgh to Tel Aviv, Nairobi to Mumbai, Copenhagen to Montreal. He built his career in shipping and logistics with Maersk and Safmarine, leading businesses across Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia, before making the leap into entrepreneurship. Today he runs a cybersecurity venture in Canada, sits on several boards, and is still very much a South African at heart. In this conversation, Steve shares an extraordinary story of relentless reinvention, the trade-offs of a global life, raising third culture kids, and what it really takes to thrive when you keep starting over. Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction: Meet Steve Felder, Montreal-based global executive 01:18 – Growing up in Cape Town, dropping out of UCT, and the early move to Joburg 02:29 – First attempt to move to Canada; Sweets from Heaven and running US stores 04:20 – Back to South Africa: Jetline and African Bank 06:30 – Joining Maersk/Safmarine — entering shipping with no industry experience 08:00 – Chief Commercial Officer for Africa; traveling the continent 09:50 – Moving to Israel (2008) as MD; life in Tel Aviv, son born on Freedom Day 12:30 – East Africa (2012): Running Maersk across Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda and beyond 15:00 – Mumbai (2017): Leading South Asia; COVID lockdown in a 20-million-person city 18:40 – Family splits between India and Copenhagen during the pandemic 21:30 – Life today: sabbatical, pickleball, cybersecurity venture, boards and advising 25:45 – Comparing countries: Kenya as the favourite 27:40 – Settling in across relocations — and why Canada was the hardest landing 32:00 – The importance of a strong family unit when relocating repeatedly 33:40 – India: "Expats cry twice — once when you arrive, once when you leave" 34:00 – How the kids identify: third culture kids who say "South Africa" even though they've never lived there 36:40 – Red tape around the world: Kenya easy, India brutal, UAE astonishing 41:09 – When did Steve realise he wasn't going back? 44:45 – Are South Africans more adaptable? The can-do attitude 48:21 – Living in Israel: perspective on the conflict from someone who was there 51:21 – Advice to a young South African: stay or go? 53:38 – Closing reflections and farewell If this episode resonated with you, please share it with someone who needs to hear it. Leave a review for Marilise and her books, and don't forget to follow and rate The Relocated South African wherever you listen to podcasts. Your documents should not slow down your new life. Apostil obtains, processes, and couriers South African police clearances, apostille certificates, unabridged documents, and more, directly to your door, anywhere in the world. Fast, professional, and stress-free. Need your documents sorted? Visit Apostil here -⁠https://tinyurl.com/apostilcoza⁠ Documents with convenience.
	Navigating Life and Identity as a South African Abroad with Cornis Van Der Lugt-Ep 65	08 juin 2026	00:53:08
In this episode I speak with Cornis van der Lugt, a South African sustainability expert. He shares insights on his international career, the transition from apartheid to democracy, and living across different cultures. This episode offers valuable lessons on resilience, cultural diversity, and building a meaningful life abroad. He discusses his childhood and family history rooted in the Western Cape and Dutch heritage and his involvement in anti-apartheid activism and transition into international environmental governance. He provides insights on navigating life and career in Europe, including language learning and cultural integration He shares his view on the importance of diaspora networks, maintaining roots, and fostering diversity Cornis Van Der Lugt: "Stay positive and embrace your roots" Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction: Cornis van der Lugt’s journey from South Africa to Europe 02:18 - Early influences: Family, upbringing, and political awakening 05:37 - University years and student protests in Stellenbosch 08:20 - First encounters with the ANC in Lusaka and exile experiences 10:37 - Transitioning into government work and South Africa's democracy 12:11 - Reflection on South Africa’s post-apartheid progress and challenges 15:13 - Foreseeing South Africa's future and lessons from history 17:34 - Rebuilding infrastructure and leadership in South Africa today 19:28 - Addressing crime and safety issues in South Africa 22:41 - Living abroad in Paris, Geneva, and cultural adaptation 25:12 - Language skills and cultural experiences across Europe 27:31 - Food, travel, and the joys of European multiculturalism 30:37 - Living in Switzerland: multicultural food and community life 32:24 - Staying connected to South African roots and diaspora networks 36:36 - Why South Africans excel abroad and resilience in the diaspora 39:22 - Cost of living, healthcare, and quality of life in Switzerland and Europe 41:32 - Success stories of South Africans internationally and their mindset 44:31 - Future plans: Retiring between South Africa and Europe 45:55 - The role of education, diversification, and AI in career planning 48:50 - Reflections on staying connected to South Africa and cultural roots 49:46 - Cornis’s advice to young professionals and future opportunities Your documents should not slow down your new life. Apostil obtains, processes, and couriers South African police clearances, apostille certificates, unabridged documents, and more, directly to your door, anywhere in the world. Fast, professional, and stress-free. Need your documents sorted? Visit Apostil here -⁠https://tinyurl.com/apostilcoza⁠ Documents with convenience.
	My Soul Never Felt at Home in England with Marilise de Villiers-Basson- Ep 64	01 juin 2026	00:51:00
In this episode, I sit down with Marilise de Villiers-Basson — TEDx speaker, high-performance coach, founder of Roar Coaching & Consulting, and bestselling author — for one of the most honest and inspiring conversations the show has had. Marilise grew up in Bredasdorp in the Cape Overberg, studied B Accounting at Stellenbosch University, and qualified as a Chartered Accountant with PwC in Cape Town. It was during her induction training at PwC that she realised her true calling wasn't in numbers — it was in people. Within three years of qualifying she had become the firm's Training Manager for the Western Cape. In 2004, mid-20s and newly in love, she gave her now-husband Heini an ultimatum: are you coming or going? He chose to go — with her — to London. What followed was 18 years of building a career, a family, and a life in England, including 16 years with PwC and a pioneering move into the human side of cyber security, a field she continues to shape today. But it wasn't all plain sailing. Marilise shares openly about the four-year ordeal of being bullied by a managing director — and the moment she was publicly demoted in a boardroom in front of her entire team. She talks candidly about becoming her own biggest bully in the process, the burnout that followed, and her journey back to herself through physical health, coaching, and eventually, her writing. Her first book, Roar: How to Tame the Bully Inside and Out, was born out of that experience — and out of the realisation that workplace bullying is a silent epidemic that far too many people suffer alone. Now being republished in South Africa under her own brand, Roar is more relevant than ever. Then came the decision to return home. COVID shifted everything. Parents were getting older. The boys — born in England — were growing up. And something about South Africa kept pulling them back. In 2023 they moved into their dream barn-style home in Jamestown, just outside Stellenbosch. But re-entry brought its own challenges: reverse culture shock, a second burnout, and the humbling reality of rebuilding a business in a new market. That experience became the seed of her brand-new book: Moar: How to Play to Win Without Burning Out — a guide to finding your unique "more" and pursuing it with energy, intention, and joy, without losing yourself in the process. In this episode we cover: 01:18 — Growing up barefoot in Bredasdorp and studying at Stellenbosch University 01:55 — Qualifying as a Chartered Accountant and discovering a passion for training at PwC 04:46 — Moving to London in 2004 and spending 18 years building a career and family 04:58 — Transitioning into cyber security — and why it's fundamentally a people problem 06:25 — The brave decision to return to South Africa after 18 years 12:37 — Reverse culture shock and the reality of rebuilding life back home 17:39 — Four years of workplace bullying and what it taught her about resilience 19:55 — Being publicly demoted — and why it was the turning point she needed 24:44 — Recovering from burnout and her journey into high-performance coaching 28:22 — A second burnout in 2023 — and why she had to "live the curriculum first" 31:21 — The new book Moar and what it means to play to win without burning out 45:52 — Advice for South Africans thinking about leaving — or coming home Connect with Marilise: Website: marilise-de-villiers.com Podcast: Roar for More Books: Roar and Moar — available on Amazon worldwide, Exclusive Books, and Takealot in South Africa Your documents should not slow down your new life. Apostil obtains, processes, and couriers South African police clearances, apostille certificates, unabridged documents, and more, directly to your door, anywhere in the world. Fast, professional, and stress-free. Need your documents sorted? Visit Apostil here -⁠⁠https://tinyurl.com/apostilcoza⁠⁠ Documents with convenience.
	From Randburg to Perth with Jannie and Karen Kotzé-Ep 64	25 mai 2026	00:57:23
In this episode, I speak with a South African couple Jannie and Karen Kotzé about their migration journey to Australia. They discuss the challenges they faced, and practical advice for others considering the move. We talk about safety concerns, immigration processes, cost of living, and cultural adjustments, providing valuable insights for prospective migrants. Karen also shares some insight on Australian immigration process and visa options They also talk about the mistakes they made in their personal journey. Jannie and Karen: “Focus on the reasons why you want to migrate" Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Kotzé family's journey 04:08 The Decision to Migrate: Personal Experiences 10:01 Navigating the Migration Process 16:15 Life in Australia: Expectations vs. Reality 21:21 Healthcare and Cost of Living in Australia 27:06 Final Thoughts on Migration and Consultancy 28:56 The Emotional Cost of Immigration 31:37 Cultural and Work Adjustments 33:58 Navigating Legal Differences in Australia 35:14 Impact of COVID-19 on Migration 37:49 Current Immigration Landscape in Australia 41:20 Who Should Consider Migrating? 43:21 The Migration Process Explained 48:26 Building a New Social Network 52:15 Reflections on Migration and Adaptation resources Karen's Email - karen@kotzélaw.com.au Your documents should not slow down your new life. Apostil obtains, processes, and couriers South African police clearances, apostille certificates, unabridged documents, and more, directly to your door, anywhere in the world. Fast, professional, and stress-free. Need your documents sorted? Visit Apostil here -⁠https://tinyurl.com/apostilcoza⁠ Documents with convenience.
	Navigating China: Insights from a South African Entrepreneur with Marco Bouwer-Ep 62	18 mai 2026	00:47:23
In this episode I chat with Marco Bouwer, A South African entrepreneur who builtds bridges between South Africa and China through his work in international trade. He shares insights into living in China, doing business there, and the cultural nuances that shape this unique experience. Marco discusses how to build trust in Chinese business culture and navigating Chinese regulations and red tape. He also shares the important role of WeChat in daily life and business Through his business, mychinalink.com he not only facilitates business but also tourism between South Africa and China. Marco Bouwer: "China's speed is unmatched in the world" Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Marco Bouwer and His Journey 06:18 From Journalism to Living in China 11:08 Life in China: Challenges and Opportunities 16:10 Daily Life in Shanghai 20:45 Healthcare and Cost of Living in China 24:25 Starting MyChinaLink: Business Insights 29:11 Navigating the Chinese Market 34:38 Logistics and Cultural Experiences 40:35 Reflections on South Africa and Future Aspirations MyChinaLink - https://www.mychinalink.com Your documents should not slow down your new life. Apostil obtains, processes, and couriers South African police clearances, apostille certificates, unabridged documents, and more, directly to your door, anywhere in the world. Fast, professional, and stress-free. Need your documents sorted? Visit Apostil here -https://tinyurl.com/apostilcozaDocuments with convenience.
	From South Africa to Canada: A Mining Engineer's AI Revolution	11 mai 2026	00:50:50
In this episode, I speak with South African entrepreneur Francisca Lombard who shares her journey from South Africa to Canada. Discover how she turned tech innovator, leveraged Canadian industry experience to create MineGPT—an AI system tailored specifically for the mining sector. This episode explores themes of adaptation, entrepreneurship, and the transformative power of AI in resource exploration. She gives personal insights on immigration, cultural differences, and building a new life abroad. She shares the challenges of healthcare, cost of living, and maintaining family connections overseas 00:00 - Introduction to Francisca Lombard's migration story and AI ventures 02:15 - How and why Francisco chose Canada for mining opportunities 03:52 - The influence of South Africa's mining industry and exporting engineering talent 05:14 - Insights into Canada’s mining industry and global influence 06:54 - The challenges faced with visa processes and immigration lotteries 08:23 - Personal motivation: coping with the loss of Francisco’s brother and desire for international experience 09:33 - Family life in Canada: marriage, parenting, and adapting to harsh winters 10:36 - The emotional impact of being far from family and support networks 11:33 - Differences in healthcare systems and access to medical services 12:19 - The cultural dynamics among South Africans abroad and community experiences 14:26 - How Canadian lifestyle differs from South Africa in leisure and infrastructure 16:43 - Cost of living and the high expenses associated with imported goods 21:03 - The evolution of Francisco’s AI business and its potential in South Africa 29:11 - How AI is accessible globally, even for those with minimal development experience 32:16 - How MindGPT simplifies regulatory report analysis and risk assessment in mining 35:14 - AI’s role in transforming the mining industry and analysis of large technical documentation 37:14 - Future of work, AI adoption, and evolution of industry standards 39:11 - Perspectives on South Africa’s mining industry and mineral wealth 42:55 - Connecting with family and revisiting South Africa 44:10 - The impact of COVID-19 on living and working abroad 46:20 - Advice for young professionals contemplating international careers 48:17 - Reflections on belongings and the value of accumulated possessions during migration 50:12 - Final thoughts on resilience, entrepreneurship, and the journey of emigration Resources & Links: mindgpt.ai — Francisca’s AI platform tailored for mining LinkedIn: Francisco Lombard — Connect with Francisco Thanks for listening! If this episode resonated, please share it and subscribe for more inspiring migration and industry insights. Your documents should not slow down your new life. Apostil obtains, processes, and couriers South African police clearances, apostille certificates, unabridged documents, and more, directly to your door, anywhere in the world. Fast, professional, and stress-free. Need your documents sorted? Visit Apostil here -https://tinyurl.com/apostilcozaDocuments with convenience.
	South Africa to the US, a journey of growth with Lazola Tutani - Ep 60	04 mai 2026	00:49:12
In today’s episode I talk with Lazola Tutani who shares his inspiring journey from South Africa to the US via Germany. We discuss his early life and the lessons learnt from his rugby coaches in the Eastern Cape. He highlights his career in manufacturing, cultural adaptation, and future ambitions to contribute back home. He shares insights on living abroad, career growth, and maintaining family connections across continents. He talks about how his young family adapted two two moves across continents and how they enjoy life in the US His ultimate goal is to return to South Africa to make a contribution to the country. Lazola Tutani: "Anything is possible if you have a vision” ”Work hard and be stubborn to pursue your dreams" Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Lazola's Background 02:24 Early Life and Education in South Africa 05:34 Working as a Petrol Attendant During University 08:06 Relocating to Germany for Career Opportunities 09:29 Learning German and Cultural Integration 12:11 Family Challenges and Adaptation in Germany 16:43 Transition from Germany to the US 20:33 First Impressions and Life in the US 22:56 Visa, Work, and Family in America 26:28 Participating in Ironman and Personal Challenges 29:01 US Healthcare and Food Culture 31:44 Family Exercise and School System in the US 35:58 South African Community and Cultural Integration 37:48 Challenges of Living in the US 39:19 Missing Family and Future Plans 41:48 Return to South Africa and Contributing to the Country 45:10 Mentorship, Giving Back, and Future Aspirations 46:31 Final Advice and Inspirational Message LinkedIn Profile of Lazola Titani - https://www.linkedin.com/in/lazolatitani Your documents should not slow down your new life. Apostil obtains, processes, and couriers South African police clearances, apostille certificates, unabridged documents, and more, directly to your door, anywhere in the world. Fast, professional, and stress-free. Need your documents sorted? Visit Aposil here -https://tinyurl.com/apostilcoza Documents with convenience.
	Simplifying documentation for South Africans with Jesse Green-Ep 59	27 avr. 2026	00:50:18
In this episode I speak with Jesse Green the founder of Apostil.co.za. He shares his journey from South Africa to Seville in Spain. He provides insights on immigration, and the services offered by apostill.co.za to assist South Africans with documentation and legal processes. He discusses some of the challenges and solutions encountered in dealing with international documentation. We explore the cost of living and quality of life as well as the language, culture, and integration in Spain Jesse Green: "Immersing in the culture is essential." "Professional help saves time and money." Chapters 00:00 Journey of Immigration: From South Africa to Spain 05:48 Cultural Immersion and Language Challenges in Spain 12:17 Navigating Tax and Healthcare as an Expat in Spain 19:00 Building a Business: Apostil.co.za and Its Growth 24:48 From Recruitment to E-commerce 26:20 The Need for Documentation 31:33 Being Document Ready for Immigration 34:05 Services Offered for South Africans 36:41 Navigating Visa Applications 39:05 Common Mistakes in Document Processing 42:00 Last-Minute Solutions and Delays 46:48 Entrepreneurship Across Borders 48:38 Cultural Differences and Personal Touch Resources Website - https://apostil.co.za Jesse Green links LinkedIn - https://linkedin.com/in/jessegreen
	Living Abroad and Embracing the South African Spirit with Rob Mailich-Ep 58	20 avr. 2026	00:48:43
In this episode I speak with Rob Mailich, a seasoned South African entrepreneur and recruitment expert. He shares his fascinating journey from Johannesburg to London and beyond. He discusses the importance of maintaining cultural roots, the realities of immigration, and the value of international experience for young professionals. He highlights the cultural attributes of South Africans that make them stand out globally. Rob says that the role of family in cross-border relocations and immigration choices can never be underestimated. Rob emphasises that embracing change, maintaining cultural pride, and continuously learning are key to thriving abroad. His insights remind us that regardless of where we are in the world, staying connected to our roots and fostering community are vital for success and happiness. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to Rob Mailich 02:14 - Growing up in Johannesburg and early educational path 03:32 - Rob’s first international move and work in Atlanta, Georgia 05:28 - Returning to South Africa and transition into recruitment 06:18 - Starting Redi Recruitment during the 2008 financial crisis 07:22 - Rob's move to London to establish UK operations 09:01 - Rob's perspectives on cultural identity and maintaining South African roots abroad 10:47 - The South African passion, humour, and community spirit 15:12 - Top countries for South African professionals to immigrate to, including the UK, Canada, and Australia 16:45 - Skills in demand abroad: engineers, CAs, and other professionals 18:54 - Trends of returning South Africans and age demographics influencing immigration 20:20 - South African work ethic, problem-solving, and diversity as attractive qualities abroad 25:07 - Follow-up for placed candidates and career growth over the years 27:04 - The emotional challenges of immigration and the importance of community support networks 29:55 - Family considerations and the influence of children and aging parents on migration decisions 31:42 - The psychological effects of migration and lessons learned 35:11 - Rob's advice for those contemplating migration and cultural adaptation 37:16 - South African identity across borders and the emotional pull of home 38:34 - Support and unity among South Africans abroad 40:35 - Rob’s favourite country to live in: South Africa, and his love for travel and lifestyle 48:00 - How to connect with Rob and resources for career and relocation guidance Resources & Links: https://rediholbourne.com/ Rob's LinkedIn profile (search "Rob Mailich") Rob's Instagram and Facebook page links (available on his website) Find your digital home with fellow Relocated South Africans around the world. Visit https://therelocatedsouthafrican.com and connect with Jan at jan@therelocatedsouthafrican.com
	Navigating Borders and Building a Life with Ankia Coetzer-Ep 57	13 avr. 2026	00:54:25
Explore the compelling story of Ankia Coetzer, a South African whose life has spanned several countries, careers, and personal challenges. Her journey highlights the complexities of migration, the importance of resilience, and the evolving meaning of home. Ankia shares how her early relocation from Johannesburg shaped her perspective on migration She talks about the experiences and lessons learned during her two decades of living and working in London and how she navigated visa pathways, citizenship, and tax implications across the UK and South Africa She highlights the impact of family, health crises, and personal growth on her international decision-making Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to Ankia´s unique relocation story 01:16 - Early beginnings and moving between South African towns 02:41 - First move to London and initial work experiences 03:24 - Why London was the chosen destination in 2000 04:44 - Starting her career in retail and retail management 06:26 - Transition into recruitment and HR consulting 08:08 - Returning to South Africa and the challenges of visa and education rules 10:29 - Deciding to study HR and career development in South Africa 12:02 - Balancing work, study, and entrepreneurial efforts as a student 14:23 - Re-entering the UK visa system and professional growth 16:53 - Building lasting relationships and community across different years and countries 18:57 - The complexities of immigration compliance and becoming a UK citizen 22:26 - Reflections on the privilege of citizenship and the costs involved 24:09 - Moving back to South Africa in 2020 during the pandemic 33:27 - Navigating homelessness and repatriation during COVID lockdowns 36:52 - Realising her impact through coaching and relationships in her current career 40:07 - The importance of soft skills and emotional intelligence in leadership 42:13 - Family, safety, and balancing dual identities across borders 45:42 - What South Africa means to her and the pull of home 53:52 - The challenges and opportunities of working in both countries 54:12 - Looking back and advice for her younger self Connect with Ankia LinkedIn - Ankia Coetzer MBA Email - hello@yellow-cable.com Find your digital home with fellow Relocated South Africans around the world. Visit https://therelocatedsouthafrican.com and connect with Jan at jan@therelocatedsouthafrican.com
	SA, Jersey, London, Singapore, Liechtenstein-SA? with Johan Jooste - Ep 56	06 avr. 2026	00:59:09
In this episode, I speak with Johan Jooste who has lived in 4 countries abroad and is considering moving back to South Africa. He shares his extensive journey as a South African expatriate, detailing his experiences living in various countries including Jersey, London, Singapore, and Liechtenstein. He discusses the challenges of relocation, the importance of family dynamics, and the emotional and logistical hurdles faced during their transitions. Johan reflects on the lessons learned throughout his journey, the impact on his family, and the considerations involved in potentially returning to South Africa. He emphasises the need for flexibility, thorough research, and the significance of support systems in navigating life abroad. He highlights that financial strains can be unexpected when relocating to a new country. Johan Jooste: “You can't do too much research." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Johann's Journey 01:06 Early Life and Education 02:29 Career Beginnings and First Move 05:03 Life in London and Transition to Singapore 16:21 Challenges of Relocation and Family Dynamics 21:41 Considering a Return to South Africa 32:04 Comparative Experiences in Different Countries 46:08 Cost of Living and Bureaucracy Insights 52:18 Reflections on the Journey Find your digital home with fellow Relocated South Africans around the world. Visit https://therelocatedsouthafrican.com and connect with Jan at jan@therelocatedsouthafrican.com
	A Journey of Immigration and Reinvention with Wendy Williams -Ep 55	30 mars 2026	00:39:05
In this episode, I speak with Wendy Williams who left South Africa for Australia at age 45. Wendy shares her inspiring story of moving from Zimbabwe to South Africa and eventually settling in Australia. Her journey highlights the courage it takes to restart later in life, navigate complex immigration processes, and embrace new opportunities. She discusses adjusting to life in Australia: safety, quality of life, and cultural difference Her advice for prospective emigrants: seize opportunities and stay positive Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:51 Wendy’s early life in Rhodesia and education background 02:52 Moving from Zimbabwe to South Africa in 1984 03:44 Farmer life and family in South Africa before emigrating 04:54 The gradual decision to leave South Africa amid political uncertainty 06:51 Deciding to emigrate to Australia and the four-year process 10:15 Navigating visa challenges and qualification recognition 13:22 The emotional and practical coping strategies during the long wait 14:57 Landing in South Australia with immediate PR and support 16:53 The kids’ experience and integration into Australian life 17:09 The importance of community and support networks 19:51 Farm work, career shifts, and embracing change at mid-life 23:45 The bold move into hydraulics and starting a new business 29:44 Adjusting to life on the coast, retirement plans, and lifestyle in South Australia 30:55 Reflections on missing South Africa, safety, and wildlife 32:07 Thinking retrospectively: leaving earlier or at the right time? 34:28 Advice to young families considering migration 36:59 Wendy’s current activities: selling biltong and community involvement 38:46 The joy of sharing South African culture abroad and future outlook Find your digital home with fellow Relocated South Africans around the world. Visit https://therelocatedsouthafrican.com and connect with Jan at jan@therelocatedsouthafrican.com
	South Africa to Canada: A Journey of Resilience with Vincent Heys-Ep 54	23 mars 2026	00:56:33
In this episode, I speak with Vincent Heys, a South African immigrant to Canada, about his journey of relocation, the challenges faced in adapting to a new country, and the importance of financial planning for immigrants. We discuss family dynamics, the decision-making process behind immigration, and the role of faith and community support. Vincent shares insights on the differences in education and healthcare systems between South Africa and Canada, as well as the mission behind his business, WealthStack, which aims to provide clarity and peace of mind for clients navigating their financial futures in a new country. He highlights that immigrants often underestimate the emotional impact of leaving friends and family behind. Vincent Heys: “It's not for sissies." Chapters 00:00 Navigating Immigration and New Beginnings 02:20 Vincent's Journey: From South Africa to Canada 07:45 Family Dynamics in Immigration 10:32 The Decision to Leave: Push vs. Pull Factors 15:59 Faith and Community in Decision Making 20:08 Adapting to Life in Canada 28:47 Education and Healthcare: A Comparative Perspective 36:41 Financial Planning for Immigrants 45:50 Building a Business: WealthStack's Mission 54:30 Advice for Future Immigrants Vincent is active on Linked in and his business can be found at www.wealthstack.ca. Find your digital home with fellow Relocated South Africans around the world. Visit https://therelocatedsouthafrican.com and connect with Jan at
	Relocating doctors to Ireland with Graham Cosgrave - Ep 53	16 mars 2026	00:45:21
In this episode, I speak with Graham Cosgrave, a recruiter for doctors in Ireland, discussing the intricacies of relocating for medical professionals, particularly from South Africa. We explore the challenges faced during relocation, the unique qualities of South African doctors, and the importance of family and community integration in the process. Graham shares insights on the growing interest from South African doctors, common mistakes made during relocation, and the financial considerations involved. He says that South African doctors are adaptable and resourceful. The conversation highlights the cultural adjustments required and concludes with success stories of doctors who have made Ireland their home. Graham Cosgrave “The Irish and South Africans get on very well." Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background of the Podcast 02:43 The Role of Recruitment in Doctor Relocation 05:34 The Importance of Community and Support 08:31 Growing Interest from South African Doctors 11:12 Unique Qualities of South African Doctors 14:25 Adapting to Life in Ireland 17:26 Family Dynamics in Relocation 20:10 The Impact of Global Dynamics on Relocation 23:42 Understanding the Relocation Process 26:24 Characteristics of a Successful Relocation Candidate 27:23 Common Mistakes in Relocation 29:09 Financial Considerations for Relocating Doctors 31:39 Cultural and System Shocks in Relocation 34:30 The Journey to Irish Citizenship 36:55 Success Stories of Relocated Doctors 39:23 Embracing Irish Culture and Community 41:10 The Doctor Diaries Podcast Graham is active on LinkedIn and has a podcast- Doctor Diaries: Adventures to Ireland. It is available on all podcast platforms. Find your digital home with fellow Relocated South Africans around the world. Visit https://therelocatedsouthafrican.com and connect with Jan at jan@therelocatedsouthafrican.com
	Cape Town to Copenhagen with Kurt De Bique - Ep 52	09 mars 2026	00:48:17
In this episode I speak with Kurt De Bique, a South African who has made the significant transition from Cape Town to Copenhagen. Kurt shares his journey, detailing his upbringing in Cape Town, the pivotal moments that led to his family's decision to emigrate, and the challenges they faced during the relocation process. He reflects on the emotional farewells to family and friends, the cultural adjustments, and the practicalities of settling into a new country, including housing, schooling, and the cost of living in Denmark. Kurt emphasises the importance of resilience and adaptability in the face of change, noting that while the move was not without its difficulties, it has also brought about personal and professional growth for both him and his wife. He discusses the role of faith in their decision-making process and how it has provided a sense of stability amidst the uncertainties of relocation. The conversation also touches on the joys of exploring Europe, the differences in lifestyle, and the unique experiences that come with living abroad, ultimately highlighting the enriching journey of embracing a new life while cherishing the roots left behind. Kurt De Bique “It's not for the faint-hearted." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest 01:09 Kurt's Background and Early Life in Cape Town 05:08 The Decision to Move to Copenhagen 08:57 Challenges of Relocation and Family Dynamics 15:38 The Role of Faith in the Journey 20:15 Living Conditions and Cost of Living in Denmark 26:37 Coping with the Weather and Language Barriers 32:13 Healthcare and Taxes in Denmark 42:17 Professional Growth and Opportunities Abroad 50:55 What They Miss About South Africa 53:31 Closing Thoughts and Reflections Find your digital home with fellow Relocated South Africans around the world. Visit https://therelocatedsouthafrican.com and connect with Jan at jan@therelocatedsouthafrican.com
	Life in Ukraine: A South African's Perspective with John Pereira-EP 51	02 mars 2026	00:51:38
In this episode, I speak with John Pereira, a South African living in Ukraine. We explore his journey from South Africa to the UK at age 20 and eventually to Ukraine. John shares his experiences in the British Armed Forces, his deployment to Iraq and Afghanistan, and his life in Ukraine during the ongoing conflict. He moved from Kyiv to Lviv due to the ongoing conflict in Kyiv. He discusses cultural insights, economic comparisons, and the challenges of living in a war-torn country. John also reflects on his visit to South Africa and offers advice for young South Africans regarding financial education and opportunities abroad. John Pereira: “ I wish I saved more” Chapters 00:00 - Introduction to John Pereira and his journey from South Africa to Ukraine 02:16 - John's early life in Kempton Park and move to the UK in 2004 03:23 - Working as a labourer and medical trials in London 04:50 - Joining the British Army and deployment to Iraq and Afghanistan 10:26 - Experiences in Iraq’s Basra and Helmand Province 12:00 - The reality of war: casualties, survival, and combat 13:00 - Transition to civilian life and life in Scotland as a bouncer and entrepreneur 15:21 - Moving to Ukraine for holiday and decision to settle 16:19 - Life in Kyiv before the full-scale invasion 18:36 - The full-scale invasion: early days, chaos, and resilience 20:02 - Power outages, infrastructure attacks, and the ongoing war 22:12 - Comparing corruption and societal structures in Ukraine and South Africa 23:28 - Living in Lviv: culture, architecture, and local atmosphere 25:46 - Marshal law, military drafts, and the impact on daily life 27:45 - Community involvement, volunteering, and safety measures 30:14 - Ukrainian cuisine, hospitality, and cultural norms 33:31 - Ukrainians' friendliness, language, and cultural nuances 36:41 - Cost of living, salaries, and the IT sector's growth in Ukraine 40:02 - Healthcare system, hospitals, and medical services during wartime 43:11 - Weather adaptation and the Ukrainian lifestyle in winter 45:32 - Clothing, winter gear, and Ukrainian customs 47:33 - Travel routes into Ukraine: Warsaw, Krakow, Budapest, and border challenges 48:36 - Returning briefly to South Africa: perceptions and realities 50:17 - Future prospects for South Africans abroad and John's views on governance John is very active on TikTok using the handle @diary_safa_john_travel. Find your digital home with fellow Relocated South Africans around the world. Visit https://therelocatedsouthafrican.com and connect with Jan at jan@therelocatedsouthafrican.com
	Emigration from South Africa, a different view with Dr Mario Denton - Ep 50	23 févr. 2026	00:49:49
In this conversation, I speak with Dr. Mario Denton a world renowned coach and speaker. He shares his insights on immigration, personal growth, and the emotional challenges faced by South Africans considering moving abroad. He discusses the importance of understanding one's purpose, the emotional costs of immigration, and the need for support networks. Dr. Denton emphasises that immigration is not a selfish decision but rather a complex choice influenced by various factors, including personal growth opportunities and family dynamics. He also highlights the significance of emotional intelligence in navigating these challenges and encourages individuals to seek guidance in their decision-making process. According to Dr Denton not everyone is a candidate for emigration-self-awareness is key. Dr “Mario Denton: "You are the CEO of your own life." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Immigration and Personal Growth 03:09 Dr. Mario Denton's Background and Experience 05:51 Perspectives on Immigration: Selfishness vs. Opportunity 09:03 Emotional and Mindset Challenges in South Africa 11:52 Who Should and Should Not Immigrate? 14:50 Coping with Trauma and Emotional Challenges 17:46 The Role of Parents in Supporting Immigrants 20:58 Maintaining Family Connections Across Borders 24:04 The Costs of Immigration: Emotional and Financial 26:39 Future Considerations for Families in South Africa 27:32 Navigating Life Abroad: Opportunities and Challenges 28:51 Coping with Loneliness: The Emotional Toll of Distance 31:13 The Importance of Sharing: Building Support Networks 33:48 South Africa's Future: Balancing Hope and Reality 38:40 Exploring Opportunities: To Stay or To Go? 41:48 Understanding Disengagement: The Path from Engagement to Disconnection 48:36 Finding Purpose: Aligning Life Choices with Personal Values Contact Dr Denton at www.drmariodenton.com. Find your digital home with fellow Relocated South Africans around the world. Visit https://therelocatedsouthafrican.com and connect with Jan at jan@therelocatedsouthafrican.com
	From South Africa to New Zealand with Abré Van Wyk (KarooKiwi) -Ep 49	16 févr. 2026	00:38:16
In this episode, I speak with Abré Van Wyk the host of the KarooKiwi podcast about his personal story of moving from South Africa to Hamilton, New Zealand. He highlights the immigration process, community integration, and the realities of living abroad. We explore his insights on setting up a business, cultural differences, and maintaining connections with South Africa. We discuss building community and networks in New Zealand and the inspiration behind the Karookiwi podcast. He shares some sound advice for anyone considering emigration. Abré gives us a bit of insight into the cost of living in New Zealand versus South Africa and Australia. He also stresses how important it is to maintain mental health and faith while abroad. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to Abré’s story and podcast 04:10 - Deciding to move to New Zealand after visiting family 07:12 - The role of family and community in expatriation 08:36 - Origins and goals of the KarooKiwi podcast 10:03 - Guests and topics featured on KarooKiwi podcast 16:39 - Comparing New Zealand and Australia for emigrants 17:40 - Meeting South Africans and social integration 18:45 - Local social customs and community life 20:13 - Challenges of household help and day-to-day living 22:08 - Travel and flight times back to South Africa 23:26 - Reflections on the past year and lessons learned 25:24 - Healthcare in New Zealand: access and costs 29:14 - Tax residency and maintaining South African links 32:16 - What Aubrey would ship from South Africa today 33:42 - Local faith communities and church life in New Zealand 37:23 - Closing remarks and future collaborations The KarooKiwi website is www.karookiwi.com. Abré is also active on LinkedIn and other social media. Contact Abré at info@karookiwi.com. Find your digital home with fellow Relocated South Africans around the world. Visit https://therelocatedsouthafrican.com and connect with Jan at jan@therelocatedsouthafrican.com
	Navigating tragedy and multiple relocations to the US with Danie Brink-Ep 48	09 févr. 2026	00:54:28
In episode 48, I interview Danie Brink, a South African math teacher who has navigated multiple relocations to the US. Danie shares his journey from South Africa to the US, discussing his teaching experiences, the challenges of immigration, and the importance of education. He also highlights his charity work, Stepping Into Grace, born out of a family tragedy, which provides prosthetic limbs to those in need in South Africa. The conversation touches on the realities of life in the US, including the cost of living, community engagement, and the emotional aspects of leaving one's home country. He discusses moving from being a teacher at the prestigious Pretoria Boys High to almost starting over in America. His wife homeschools the children and he discusses his views on homeschooling as a teacher himself. We discuss the cost of living in the US which can be manageable for teachers, especially dual-income families. He suggests that Immigrants should consider trying life in a new country, as they can always return if needed, as they have proven. Danie Brink: “We are where God wants us now." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest 01:10 Danie’s Background and Journey to the U.S. 07:05 Graduate Studies and Immigration Insights 13:40 The Impact of a Tragic Accident 17:08 Establishing a Nonprofit for Prosthetics 19:10 Life in Georgia and Cultural Connections 25:28 Homeschooling Philosophy and Practices 40:03 A morning run discussion 47:22 American friendships The charity which provides prosthetic limbs can be found at www.steppingintograce.com. Find your digital home with fellow Relocated South Africans around the world. Visit https://therelocatedsouthafrican.com and connect with Jan at jan@therelocatedsouthafrican.com
	Navigating emerging markets to living in Norway with Nicholas Kühne-Ep 47	02 févr. 2026	01:02:22
In Episode 47 I speak with Nichola Kühne a South African brand specialist and founder of “From Startup to Wunderbrand” podcast. Nicholas talks about his early life in South Africa, his professional journey in branding and marketing and the adjustments he and his family have made in Norway. The discussion touches on cultural integration, the South African identity abroad, and the importance of community. Nicholas also reflects on the work ethic of South Africans and offers valuable advice for those considering immigration. The conversation concludes with insights on personal growth and the joys of living in a new country. He encourages others to embrace their strengths rather than focus on weaknesses. Nicholas believes in the value of community and making connections in a new country. He shares insights on the importance of integrating into the local culture. Nicholas advises future immigrants to consider Scandinavia for its quality of life. He expresses gratitude for his journey and the opportunities it has provided. Nicholas Kühne: “Norway is a play-play land." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Journey 02:41 Nicholas's Background and Early Life 05:35 Career Path and Experiences in Africa 08:24 Emigration to Malaysia and Its Challenges 11:00 Transition to Norway and Cultural Adjustments 13:42 Social Dynamics and Community in Norway 16:26 Navigating Identity as an Expat 19:05 Reflections on South African Heritage 21:40 Business Ventures and Podcasting Journey 24:32 Advice for New Immigrants 30:50 Building Brands for Emerging Markets 38:01 Focusing on Strengths Over Weaknesses 41:38 The South African Work Ethic Abroad 48:24 Navigating Business and Tax in Norway 54:35 Embracing Life in Norway Nicholas’ podcast is available on all platforms as From Startup to Wunderbrand. His website is: https://www.kuhne.no/ Find your digital home with fellow Relocated South Africans around the world. Visit https://therelocatedsouthafrican.com and connect with Jan at jan@therelocatedsouthafrican.com

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