Almost Local: Living Abroad Stories shares honest, human stories of people building lives and homes abroad. Hosted by Marc Alcobé, the channel explores what it really means to live somewhere new, beyond visas, checklists, and highlight reels.
Through in-depth conversations with people living abroad around the world, we talk about belonging, identity, culture shock, community, and the slow process of becoming almost local. These are stories about finding home in unfamiliar places, navigating life between cultures, and redefining where you’re from.
Whether you’re already living abroad, planning a move, or simply curious about life elsewhere, Almost Local is a space for reflection, connection, and real experiences of life beyond borders.
New episodes weekly feature personal stories from around the world, shared with honesty, depth, and nuance.
Site
RSS
Data updated on 22/07/2026
Recent rankings
Latest chart positions across Apple Podcasts and Spotify rankings.
Shared links between episodes and podcasts
Links found in episode descriptions and other podcasts that share them.
Almost Local #66 | Relocation Reality: From Digital Nomad to Portugal Innovator with Scott Kirk
Season 3 · Episode 66
Monday, July 20, 2026 • Duration 49:56
This episode delves into the real insides of living, adapting, and thriving abroad. Scott Kirk shares his unconventional journey from a tech background to helping others with their international moves—highlighting the psychological and cultural aspects of settling in Portugal and beyond.
In this episode:
How moving abroad is about more than geography—it's about identity and safety
The mindset shifts involved in becoming a digital nomad before the term existed
The importance of community and cultural integration when relocating
Practical insights on navigating Portugal's bureaucracy and cost of living
The evolving definition of "home" through a life of constant change
How sports, local customs, and language shape integration
The strategic approach to choosing where and how to live based on lifestyle needs
Scott’s transformation from a tech entrepreneur to a relocation facilitator
Key tips for a smooth transition and avoiding common pitfalls
🎙️ Guest: Scott Kirk A relocation expert and Portugal integration guide, and a former digital nomad turned community-builder.
Level8: Upgrade your travel experience with luggage designed for people constantly on the move. Durable, sleek, and built to last—Level8 makes every trip smoother. Get 10% off with code LEVEL8Expat10.
StartAbroad: Planning a move abroad doesn’t have to be overwhelming. StartAbroad helps you navigate visas, paperwork, and the entire relocation process—especially for Costa Rica, Panama, Spain, and Portugal.
Get 5% off with code ALMOSTLOCAL.
PodMatch Like a dating app by matching hosts and guests for podcast interviews with process automations.
Riverside is your online studio for high-quality podcast and video recording and editing. Powered by AI.
Slate and Key The Key To Your New Life. A experience to curate the life of your dreams in the Portugal.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
🌎✈️ Join our Almost Local Network now and connect with a global community of like-minded adventurers!
Almost Local #65 | The Truth About Belonging When You Live Abroad with Willa Goodfellow
Season 3 · Episode 65
Monday, July 13, 2026 • Duration 45:25
This episode explores the transformative journey of Willa Goodfellow as she navigates life across Costa Rica and Ireland, revealing how culture, community, and identity intertwine in foreign lands. Her story offers valuable insights into adapting to new environments, building community, and embracing change with curiosity and humour.
Key topics:
Willa's background, from Colorado to Costa Rica to Ireland, and what drove her travels
How living in diverse environments influences creativity and writing
The role of community, local customs, and the bar life in Costa Rica in shaping her experience
Practical insights on integrating into small towns and rural communities abroad
The impact of cultural and language differences on social life and forming local relationships
Managing identity shifts, cultural adjustments, and the routines of living between two worlds
The significance of faith and religion in forming community and local engagement
Experiences as a lesbian couple abroad: acceptance, challenges, and the evolving landscape
Practical tips for newcomers: finding housing, participating in local life, and navigating bureaucracy
Reflections on the best and worst aspects of life in Costa Rica and Ireland
Willa's co-authored books, blending humour, personal stories, and cultural insights
🎙️ Guest: Willa Goodfellow An Episcopal priest and author who has lived across Colorado, Costa Rica, and Ireland. She’s a curious storyteller who writes about community, identity, and the humour of living abroad.
Like a dating app by matching hosts and guests for podcast interviews with process automations.The Key To Your New Life. A experience to curate the life of your dreams in the Portugal.is your online studio for high-quality podcast and video recording and editing. Powered by AI.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
Almost Local #64 | The Unexpected Emotional Crash of Moving Back Home with Annegret Bertsch
Season 3 · Episode 64
Monday, July 6, 2026 • Duration 57:56
In this episode, we explore the emotional and practical realities of living abroad and returning home. Annegret Bertsch, a coach specializing in expats and repatriation, shares her insights on navigating identity shifts, cultural differences, and the unexpected challenges of reintegration.
Key topics: - The emotional side of returning home after years abroad, including grief and identity shifts - How living in different countries like the US, China, and Germany shapes personal and cultural identity - The importance of emotional support and coaching in managing expatriation and repatriation challenges - Strategies for coping with reverse culture shock and maintaining a sense of belonging - Lessons learned from cultural differences, such as humility and positivity, and what we can import from other societies - The role of intentional community-building and self-awareness in successful international transitions
🎙️ Guest: Annegret Bertsch A coach specializing in supporting expats and those navigating repatriation, drawing from her personal experiences of living in multiple countries like the US, China, and Germany. Her journey highlights the emotional and cultural challenges of international transitions, emphasizing the importance of coaching in finding purpose and adapting to new environments.
: Upgrade your travel experience with luggage designed for people constantly on the move. Durable, sleek, and built to last—Level8 makes every trip smoother. Get 10% off with code LEVEL8Expat10.
Like a dating app by matching hosts and guests for podcast interviews with process automations.The Key To Your New Life. A experience to curate the life of your dreams in the Portugal.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
Almost Local #63 | Is Leaving Home Worth It? The Real Cost of Living Abroad with Lisa La Valle
Season 3 · Episode 63
Monday, June 29, 2026 • Duration 41:02
This episode offers a deep dive into the unseen forces shaping expatriates' experiences, with Lisa La Valle sharing her journey across countries, cultures, and careers. Discover how cultural awareness influences not just adaptation but personal growth, and learn practical strategies to thrive abroad.
Key Topics:
The invisible forces of culture and their influence on behavior
The evolution of Lisa’s expatriate identity over time
How understanding your own culture is crucial for successful adaptation
The role of self-reflection in navigating cultural differences
Practical tools: the 101 Culture Hacks book and how it simplifies cultural intelligence
The impact of language as both a practical tool and emotional doorway
Cost of living as a motivation for relocating and lifestyle choices
Balancing cultural traits of origin with new cultural influences
The importance of kindness and humility in cross-cultural encounters
How to develop social anchors and avoid expatriate isolation
The transformation from eager newcomer to confident resident
Insights into the emotional landscape of expatriates and common challenges
The significance of continuous learning and curiosity in midlife abroad
🎙️ Guest: Lisa La Valle A cultural anthropologist and cross-cultural trainer who has lived and worked across various countries, sharing her insights on cultural adaptation and identity. She is also the author of "101 Culture Hacks," a guide aimed at helping expatriates navigate cultural differences effectively.
The Key To Your New Life. A experience to curate the life of your dreams in the Portugal.Like a dating app by matching hosts and guests for podcast interviews with process automations.is your online studio for high-quality podcast and video recording and editing. Powered by AI.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
Almost Local #62 | The Honest Reality of Being Location Independent with Bobby Casey
Season 3 · Episode 62
Monday, June 22, 2026 • Duration 01:10:08
In this episode, Bobby Casey shares his journey of living in multiple countries, building online businesses, and managing a remote team — all while traveling the world. His experience offers valuable lessons for entrepreneurs and digital nomads aiming to incorporate location independence into their lives.
Key topics: - Bobby’s early influences and shift from a traditional upbringing to a travel-oriented lifestyle - How travel and cultural adaptation shaped his entrepreneurial mindset - The logistics and mindset behind managing multiple companies remotely - The importance of cultivating a culture of remote work within a team - Insights into international tax residency, compliance, and how to optimize for location independence
🎙️ Guest: Bobby Casey A seasoned entrepreneur and digital nomad who thrives on building businesses while exploring the world, offering unique insights into location-independent living and remote work management.
Like a dating app by matching hosts and guests for podcast interviews with process automations.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
Almost Local #61 | Balkans Life: The EU Move that Transformed My Identity and Perspective with Chanoa Inez
Season 3 · Episode 61
Monday, June 15, 2026 • Duration 37:30
In this episode, we explore the inspiring story of Chanoa Inez, a fearless American who transitioned from New York to the Balkans, lived in Montenegro, and built a life rich with cultural exploration and personal growth. She shares the emotional journey behind her relocations, the challenges of language learning, and her work bridging personal development with professional branding. If you're curious about embracing change or moving abroad, this conversation offers valuable insights and practical tips.
Main insights covered: - How a chance visit in Montenegro turned into a full-time residence after a profound in-person connection and cultural immersion. - The emotional impact of grief and loss, and how living abroad can aid in healing and reconnecting with oneself. - Navigating the logistics and cultural differences of moving to Serbia and Montenegro as a foreigner, including language learning and social integration. - The unique lifestyle contrasts between Serbia’s vibrant city life and Montenegro’s slow-paced seaside living. - The importance of self-love, mental health, and spiritual practices in rebuilding confidence after personal tragedies.
🎙️ Guest: Chanoa Inez A transformative storyteller and cultural explorer who empowers others through her journey of personal growth and resilience across diverse global landscapes.
Level8: Upgrade your travel experience with luggage designed for people constantly on the move. Durable, sleek, and built to last—Level8 makes every trip smoother. Get 10% off with code LEVEL8Expat10.
Like a dating app by matching hosts and guests for podcast interviews with process automations.The Key To Your New Life. A experience to curate the life of your dreams in the Portugal.Personalised relocation services for Costa Rica, Panama, Portugal and Spain. Code 5%: ALMOSTLOCADisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
Almost Local #60 | The Reality of Being a Foreigner in Dubai: Life after a football career with Marcelo Mercuri
Season 3 · Episode 60
Monday, June 8, 2026 • Duration 42:40
In this episode, Marcelo Mercuri shares his journey from a professional football goalkeeper spanning four continents to becoming an investor and real estate expert in Dubai. His story provides a unique perspective on adapting to new cultures, planning for life after sports, and thriving in a dynamic city like Dubai.
Key Topics:
The cultural and logistical differences of football in Greece, Spain, Australia, and the US
How Marcelo prepared financially and professionally for life after football starting at age 25
The decision-making process behind moving to Dubai and integrating into its expat community
Insights on living in Dubai: costs, lifestyle, public transport, and social integration
His approach to investing in real estate and supporting other athletes' financial futures
How global events, such as regional conflicts, influence expatriates living in Dubai
Practical advice for those considering a move to Dubai based on Marcelo's experience
🎙️ Guest: Marcelo Mercuri Former professional goalkeeper, now a real estate and investment advisor in Dubai, with a rich career spanning four continents. His insights reveal what it takes to adapt, succeed, and build a new life outside the spotlight—preparedness, curiosity, and strategic thinking.
Level8: Upgrade your travel experience with luggage designed for people constantly on the move. Durable, sleek, and built to last—Level8 makes every trip smoother. Get 10% off with code LEVEL8Expat10.
The Key To Your New Life. A experience to curate the life of your dreams in the Portugal.Like a dating app by matching hosts and guests for podcast interviews with process automations.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
Almost Local #59 | When Everything Changes, Home Becomes Internal with Nina Aziz Justin
Season 3 · Episode 59
Monday, June 1, 2026 • Duration 44:07
In this episode, Nina Aziz Justin shares her inspiring story of moving across borders, building resilience, and redefining belonging amidst cultural shifts. Her journey from Malaysia to Europe, her professional evolution, and her experiences with family challenges offer powerful insights into adapting and thriving in change.
We discuss:
Her decision to study abroad at 17 and the courage required for such a leap
How her daughter’s rare genetic condition reshaped her perspective on resilience and life priorities
Practical tips for adapting to Dutch culture, language learning, and navigating the housing market
🎙️ Guest: Nina Aziz Justin A business resilience mentor and author who has navigated life across multiple cultures, using her experiences to help others build resilience and adaptability in their personal and professional lives. Her journey from Malaysia to Europe, coupled with her role as a mother to a special needs child, has shaped her unique perspective on identity, belonging, and the power of reinvention.
Level8: Upgrade your travel experience with luggage designed for people constantly on the move. Durable, sleek, and built to last—Level8 makes every trip smoother. Get 10% off with code LEVEL8Expat10.
Personalised relocation services for Costa Rica, Panama, Portugal and Spain. Code 5%: ALMOSTLOCAThe Key To Your New Life. A experience to curate the life of your dreams in the Portugal.Use code LEVEL8Expat10 for 10% off your next high-quality travel suitcase.Like a dating app by matching hosts and guests for podcast interviews with process automations.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
Almost Local #58 | Always Hiking, Never Home: What That Actually Feels Like with Belinda Coker
Season 3 · Episode 58
Monday, May 25, 2026 • Duration 49:09
In this episode, Belinda shares her inspiring journey from corporate life and extensive travel to embracing the outdoor life in Scotland. Discover how hiking and slow travel have transformed her perspective and enriched her life, offering practical insights for anyone looking to explore beyond conventional tourism.
Belinda’s story exemplifies how embracing outdoor adventures and thoughtful travel can invigorate retirement and reshape one’s sense of community and purpose. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or contemplating your first long-distance trail, her insights invite you to see travel and life through a broader, more enriching lens.
🎙️ Guest: Belinda Coker An adventurous spirit who transitioned from a corporate career to a life of exploration, embracing hiking and slow travel across the globe. With roots in New Zealand and Australia, she now resides in Scotland, sharing her experiences and insights through her hiking guides and house-sitting projects.
Level8: Upgrade your travel experience with luggage designed for people constantly on the move. Durable, sleek, and built to last—Level8 makes every trip smoother. Get 10% off with code LEVEL8Expat10.
Personalised relocation services for Costa Rica, Panama, Portugal and Spain. Code 5%: ALMOSTLOCAThe Key To Your New Life. A experience to curate the life of your dreams in the Portugal.Use code LEVEL8Expat10 for 10% off your next high-quality travel suitcase.Like a dating app by matching hosts and guests for podcast interviews with process automations.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
Almost Local #57 | From France to Canada: A Journey of Language and Culture with Cathy Introligator
Season 3 · Episode 57
Monday, May 18, 2026 • Duration 39:40
Unlock the secrets of embracing life abroad and learn how mastering language and culture can transform your experience — all from someone who did it firsthand. Cathy shares her incredible journey moving from France to Canada, launching a French bakery in Vancouver, and shifting to a successful language coaching career — showing that with the right mindset and approach, you can turn challenges into opportunities.
Discover how the Canadian approach to immigration and entrepreneurship can be surprisingly accessible — lower barriers, fewer formal requirements, and faster paths to success compared to France. Cathy breaks down her unique experience building a bakery with just a startup mindset, plus the cultural nuances between French and Quebecois French that most outsiders never see. If you're considering moving abroad or leaning into multilingualism, her insights on navigating local customs, learning new languages, and making meaningful connections will inspire your next step.
You'll learn the key differences between city life in Vancouver versus Montreal, including cost of living, social customs, and everyday routines — essential intel whether you're planning your move or just curious about life in Canada. Cathy also dives deep into her neural language coaching method, revealing how understanding your brain’s language learning processes can accelerate fluency and boost confidence — crucial for anyone struggling with language anxiety or looking to elevate their skills beyond basic conversation.
Most importantly, this episode highlights how taking risks, embracing failure, and staying curious can open doors you never imagined. Whether you’re dreaming of living abroad, switching careers, or simply want to deepen your multilingual journey, Cathy’s story proves that the best experiences often come from stepping outside your comfort zone.
🎙️ Guest: Cathy Introligator Cathy is a passionate language coach from Montreal with extensive expat experience in Canada, known for her innovative neural language coaching approach and her inspiring journey from bakery owner to language educator.
The Key To Your New Life. A experience to curate the life of your dreams in the Portugal.Like a dating app by matching hosts and guests for podcast interviews with process automations.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
Level8: Upgrade your travel experience with luggage designed for people constantly on the move. Durable, sleek, and built to last—Level8 makes every trip smoother. Get 10% off with code LEVEL8Expat10.
StartAbroad: Planning a move abroad doesn’t have to be overwhelming. StartAbroad helps you navigate visas, paperwork, and the entire relocation process—especially for Costa Rica, Panama, Spain, and Portugal.
StartAbroad: Planning a move abroad doesn’t have to be overwhelming. StartAbroad helps you navigate visas, paperwork, and the entire relocation process—especially for Costa Rica, Panama, Spain, and Portugal.
Get 5% off with code ALMOSTLOCAL.
Slate and Key: Thinking about relocating to Portugal? Slate & Key offers step-by-step support to guide you through the process. Start with their free webinar to understand exactly what it takes to make the move. Check out the free webinar!
Level8: Upgrade your travel experience with luggage designed for people constantly on the move. Durable, sleek, and built to last—Level8 makes every trip smoother. Get 10% off with code LEVEL8Expat10.
StartAbroad: Planning a move abroad doesn’t have to be overwhelming. StartAbroad helps you navigate visas, paperwork, and the entire relocation process—especially for Costa Rica, Panama, Spain, and Portugal.
🌎✈️ Join our Almost Local Network now and connect with a global community of like-minded adventurers!
Level8: Upgrade your travel experience with luggage designed for people constantly on the move. Durable, sleek, and built to last—Level8 makes every trip smoother. Get 10% off with code LEVEL8Expat10.
StartAbroad: Planning a move abroad doesn’t have to be overwhelming. StartAbroad helps you navigate visas, paperwork, and the entire relocation process—especially for Costa Rica, Panama, Spain, and Portugal.
Get 5% off with code ALMOSTLOCAL.
Slate and Key: Thinking about relocating to Portugal? Slate & Key offers step-by-step support to guide you through the process. Start with their free webinar to understand exactly what it takes to make the move. Check out the free webinar!
🌎✈️ Join our Almost Local Network now and connect with a global community of like-minded adventurers!
StartAbroad: Planning a move abroad doesn’t have to be overwhelming. StartAbroad helps you navigate visas, paperwork, and the entire relocation process—especially for Costa Rica, Panama, Spain, and Portugal.
🌎✈️ Join our Almost Local Network now and connect with a global community of like-minded adventurers!
StartAbroad: Planning a move abroad doesn’t have to be overwhelming. StartAbroad helps you navigate visas, paperwork, and the entire relocation process—especially for Costa Rica, Panama, Spain, and Portugal.
🌎✈️ Join our Almost Local Network now and connect with a global community of like-minded adventurers!
StartAbroad: Planning a move abroad doesn’t have to be overwhelming. StartAbroad helps you navigate visas, paperwork, and the entire relocation process—especially for Costa Rica, Panama, Spain, and Portugal.
Level8: Upgrade your travel experience with luggage designed for people constantly on the move. Durable, sleek, and built to last—Level8 makes every trip smoother. Get 10% off with code LEVEL8Expat10.
StartAbroad: Planning a move abroad doesn’t have to be overwhelming. StartAbroad helps you navigate visas, paperwork, and the entire relocation process—especially for Costa Rica, Panama, Spain, and Portugal.
🌎✈️ Join our Almost Local Network now and connect with a global community of like-minded adventurers!
Related Shows Based on Content Similarities
Discover shows related to Almost Local: Living Abroad Stories, based on actual content similarities. Explore podcasts with similar topics, themes, and formats, backed by real data.
