Explore every episode of the podcast Quiero un Panino con Cheese - A Podcast for TCKs and Multicultural Families
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| HAPPY NEW YEAR!! | 31 Dec 2025 | 00:38:09 | |
As the year comes to a close, we’re also wrapping up Season 1 of Quiero un Panino con Cheese — and what a year it’s been. This episode serves as a year-end recap, where we share our honest thoughts on what 2025 has meant for us personally and creatively, the lessons we’ve learned along the way, and how this podcast has grown since its very first episode. From meaningful conversations to unexpected laughs, Season 1 has been full of moments we’ll never forget. We would also like to give special thanks to all the amazing guests who have taken the time to share their wisdom with us during some wonderful conversations. You’ll also get a behind-the-scenes glimpse into our dynamic as hosts — because as you can tell from the very first moments of this episode, we clearly never have any fun while recording 😉. Our chemistry, humor, and candid conversations have been at the heart of this show, and this episode is no different. As we close out the season, we also share what we’re hoping for in 2026 — both for ourselves and for the future of the podcast. New topics, deeper conversations, and a lineup of exciting guests are already in the works. After this episode, we’ll be taking a short break in January to regroup, gather our thoughts, and creatively reset. This pause will allow us to come back refreshed, inspired, and ready to bring you even more meaningful episodes in the next season. Most importantly, we want to hear from you, our listeners. Your support, feedback, and engagement have meant everything to us this season. What topics would you like us to explore next? Are there conversations you feel don’t get talked about enough? Guests you’d like us to bring on? Join us for this special season finale, celebrate the end of the year with us, and help shape what’s next for Quiero un Panino con Cheese. 🎙️✨ Happy New Year — and we’ll see you in the next season! Please hit the follow button and enter this crazy, multilingual, international world and explore these questions and so much more as I open up about my personal experiences over a cup of coffee, Americano, espresso, cafe solo, or whatever gets you moving! For more, please follow me also on Instagram at Quiero un Panino con Cheese | |||
| Planes, Trains, amd Automobiles | 17 Dec 2025 | 00:38:26 | |
Traveling—especially during the holiday season—can be exciting, chaotic, and downright stressful all at once. In this episode of Quiero un Panino con Cheese, Hazel and Gaia dive headfirst into the highs and lows of travel, sharing their personal tips, quirks, and very real anxieties when it comes to getting from point A to point B. In a lighthearted and funny conversation, they break down how each of them approaches travel, from the planning and preparation beforehand to the emotional rollercoaster that comes with taking off. Hazel and Gaia also explore how differently they feel about traveling, touching on what excites them, what overwhelms them, and how their personalities show up once a trip is on the calendar. The episode doesn’t shy away from the stressors either—they open up about their biggest fears, travel mishaps, and the little things that can spiral into full-blown anxiety while on the move. Along the way, they share practical travel tips they’ve picked up through experience, as well as relatable moments that will have you laughing and nodding along. So, if you’re gearing up for a holiday trip—or traveling anytime soon—and could use some laughs, reassurance, and honest travel talk, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in for helpful insights, shared experiences, and a good giggle before your next adventure. Please hit the follow button and enter this crazy, multilingual, international world and explore these questions and so much more as I open up about my personal experiences over a cup of coffee, Americano, espresso, cafe solo, or whatever gets you moving! For more, please follow me also on Instagram at Quiero un Panino con Cheese | |||
| TCK Stories with Chiara | 13 Aug 2025 | 00:42:03 | |
In today’s episode of our series, TCK STORIES , we sit down with Chiara — Gaia’s middle child and a true Third Culture Kid. Born in Paris to Italian parents, Chiara's journey spans multiple countries: from Rome to Madrid, then across the ocean to the U.S. for college and work, and now back to Spain. Chiara opens up in a raw and heartfelt conversation about what it’s like to grow up feeling like an outsider, navigating identity, and the challenges of reverse culture shock after returning to Europe. We talk about: Whether you're a TCK yourself or know someone who is, this episode is a must-listen. Chiara’s story is honest, reflective, and deeply relatable for anyone navigating cultural complexity and change. Mentioned in the episode: Find and follow TCK Global on Instagram Please hit the follow button and enter this crazy, multilingual, international world and explore these questions and so much more as I open up about my personal experiences over a cup of coffee, Americano, espresso, cafe solo, or whatever gets you moving! For more, please follow me also on Instagram at Quiero un Panino con Cheese | |||
| When Going Home Gets Tough with Annegret Bertsch, CPC | 30 Jul 2025 | 00:33:25 | |
After years of living abroad, returning home might seem like the easy part—but for many, it’s the hardest transition of all. In this episode, we dive deep into the often overlooked phenomenon of reverse culture shock—what it is, why it hits harder than expected, and how to navigate it with more awareness and compassion. We’re thrilled to welcome Annegret Bertsch, a solution-focused coach certified through Erickson International, with a background in Mathematics and English. Annegret has lived in across Europe, America, and Asia, and recently repatriated to Germany after years abroad. Together, we explore powerful questions, including:
Whether you’re preparing to return home or supporting someone who is, this conversation is packed with valuable insights to help you better understand and navigate the emotional complexities of coming home. You can find Annegret on Instagram, on LinkedIn and at Coaching Because Please hit the follow button and enter this crazy, multilingual, international world and explore these questions and so much more as I open up about my personal experiences over a cup of coffee, Americano, espresso, cafe solo, or whatever gets you moving! For more, please follow me also on Instagram at Quiero un Panino con Cheese | |||
| When Crisis Hits... | 16 Jul 2025 | 00:34:00 | |
In this heartfelt and candid episode, Hazel and Gaia tackle a tough but important topic: what happens when life takes a scary turn and you're thousands of miles away from your loved ones? Whether it's a personal emergency or a crisis back home, being far from family adds a layer of fear and helplessness that’s hard to shake. While we can't always prevent difficult moments, we can prepare ourselves emotionally and practically. In this episode, we discuss:
Tune in for this honest discussion, filled with reflection and helpful advice on how to be best prepared for when you need to be the strongest. You won't want to miss this one. Please hit the follow button and enter this crazy, multilingual, international world and explore these questions and so much more as I open up about my personal experiences over a cup of coffee, Americano, espresso, cafe solo, or whatever gets you moving! For more, please follow me also on Instagram at Quiero un Panino con Cheese | |||
| TCK Stories with Giulia | 02 Jul 2025 | 00:35:49 | |
Today, we sit down with Giulia, Gaia’s daughter, the talented graphic artist behind Quiero un Panino con Cheese, and a quintessential Third-Culture Kid. Born in France to Italian parents and having lived in France, Italy, and Spain, Giulia shares her unique perspective on what it means to grow up between cultures and across borders. In this episode, we explore:
Giulia opens up about the highs and lows of her multicultural upbringing, sharing honest, heartfelt stories and reflections. From feeling like an outsider to finding strength in her diverse background, she gives us an authentic look at the TCK experience. Don’t miss this insightful and inspiring conversation—raw, real, and full of warmth. Follow Giulia on Instagram at redbeaniebondi Mentioned in this episode: Third Culture Kids: Growing Up Among Worlds by David C. Pollock and Ruth E. Van Reken (3rd Edition, 2017) – a classic resource on the TCK experience. Please hit the follow button and enter this crazy, multilingual, international world and explore these questions and so much more as I open up about my personal experiences over a cup of coffee, Americano, espresso, cafe solo, or whatever gets you moving! For more, please follow me also on Instagram at Quiero un Panino con Cheese | |||
| WE'RE MOVING!!!! With Angela Vitiello - MBA, MS Ed and founder of "The Expat Parenting Collective" | 18 Jun 2025 | 00:34:58 | |
In this episode, we dive into the emotionally complex and often delicate topic of telling our families, "We're moving." Joining us is Angela Vitiello, founder of The Expat Parenting Collective. Angela brings a wealth of experience as an expat parent, having lived in four countries across three continents, traveled to nearly 40, and worked with globally mobile families since founding The Expat Parenting Collective based out of Brussels, Belgium. She is an INSEAD Business School alumna, is an affiliate with the Institute of Coaching: McLean-Harvard School of Medicine, and is a member of the European Mentoring & Coaching Council. Angela shares valuable insights on:
Whether you're preparing for a relocation or still adjusting after a recent move, this episode offers compassionate advice and actionable steps to support your family through change. Don’t miss it! Angela can be reached through the following links: On Instagram Expatparentingcollective The Expat Parenting Collective Website The Conversation Cards can be purchased through the link to Wings & Wonder's webshop via Etsy. You can follow Wings & Wonder on Instagram Please hit the follow button and enter this crazy, multilingual, international world and explore these questions and so much more as I open up about my personal experiences over a cup of coffee, Americano, espresso, cafe solo, or whatever gets you moving! For more, please follow me also on Instagram at Quiero un Panino con Cheese | |||
| Finding Your Tribe - With Julia Marcos | 04 Jun 2025 | 00:38:34 | |
In today's episode of Quiero un Panino con Cheese, we're excited to welcome our very first guest, Julia Marcos, a close friend of Hazel’s who has navigated the challenges of raising children in a foreign country, far from her family and support system. Julia shares her remarkable journey, detailing how a planned three-month stay in the U.S. unexpectedly evolved into a 22-year adventure. She opens up about the difficulties she and her partner faced in those early days and how finding their "tribe" transformed their experience. In this episode, we delve into a variety of thought-provoking topics, including:
Join us as we explore the heartfelt story of how Hazel and Julia met, and engage in an open, insightful discussion about the universal quest for belonging and support in a new land. This episode serves as a poignant reminder of the shared experiences that unite us all. Please hit the follow button and enter this crazy, multilingual, international world and explore these questions and so much more as I open up about my personal experiences over a cup of coffee, Americano, espresso, cafe solo, or whatever gets you moving! For more, please follow me also on Instagram at Quiero un Panino con Cheese | |||
| The Learning Gypsies | 21 May 2025 | 00:42:26 | |
🎙️ Today on “Quiero un Panino con Cheese” — we dive deep into the future of education through the inspiring journey of Hazel and her husband Iñaki. After growing disillusioned with traditional schooling, they made a bold decision: to leave everything behind and embark on a three-year nomadic adventure in search of the most effective and meaningful ways to educate their children. In this heartfelt and thought-provoking conversation, Gaia sits down with Hazel to explore:
✨ This is more than a story of travel and homeschooling—it’s a powerful reflection on learning, parenting, and the courage to question the status quo. Join us for this special episode full of insights, surprises, and inspiration—you won’t want to miss it. Documentary Learning Gypsies: https://vimeo.com/360241372?share=copy World Schoolers: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1AK8y5b7PQ/?mibextid=wwXIfr Escuela Del Siglo XXI ( referred to as La Escuela del Futuro by Hazel during the interview): The Parenting Camp: https://www.instagram.com/the_parenting_camp?igsh=MXJtMjR1cXVkajh3ag== Please hit the follow button and enter this crazy, multilingual, international world and explore these questions and so much more as I open up about my personal experiences over a cup of coffee, Americano, espresso, cafe solo, or whatever gets you moving! For more, please follow me also on Instagram at Quiero un Panino con Cheese | |||
| Lost and Found in Translation | 07 May 2025 | 00:43:01 | |
Navigating the journey of raising bilingual children comes with its own unique set of challenges — and joys! In this episode of "Quiero un Panino con Cheese," we dive into our personal experiences of living across borders and growing up in multilingual households. We share the triumphs, the frustrations, and the surprising moments that come with communicating with our kids in more than one language. Join us as we explore a range of lively topics, including:
As parents navigating multilingual worlds, it's easy to worry about making mistakes or "doing it wrong." But in this conversation, we reflect on how a relaxed, flexible approach might be the secret to helping our children fall in love with languages and with learning itself. Tune in for a heartfelt and inspiring discussion filled with real talk, relatable stories, and actionable advice! Madres en Cuarantena https://www.instagram.com/p/DGbI-mbPyFR/ Please hit the follow button and enter this crazy, multilingual, international world and explore these questions and so much more as I open up about my personal experiences over a cup of coffee, Americano, espresso, cafe solo, or whatever gets you moving! For more, please follow me also on Instagram at Quiero un Panino con Cheese | |||
| Marriage Without Borders | 23 Apr 2025 | 00:40:04 | |
In this episode, Hazel and I explore the dynamics of being in relationships with partners from diverse cultural backgrounds and the unique challenges that arise. While my husband and I share Italian roots, we were raised in different countries, each with its own customs and traditions. Similarly, Hazel and her husband communicate in Spanish but hail from entirely distinct cultures. Join us as we delve into a variety of intriguing topics:
We enjoyed a lively conversation filled with humor and anecdotes about the ups and downs of intercultural relationships. We discovered that every family, regardless of origin, has its own cultural norms. Many challenges faced by intercultural couples mirror those experienced by partners from the same hometown. Ultimately, the foundation of a successful relationship lies in communication, empathy, and a willingness to learn and grow together, no matter the language spoken. Tune in for an engaging discussion that celebrates love across cultures! Jen Brister and her Spanish mum https://www.instagram.com/p/DAQPHc9sOFF/ “How to Avoid Getting 'Hit by Air' in Italy” by Dany Mitzman - BBC https://www.bbc.com/news/magazine-15987082 “Building a Successful Intercultural Marriage and Family” - Grant Hilary Brenner MD, DFAPA https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/experimentations/202401/building-a-successful-intercultural-marriage-and-family Please hit the follow button and enter this crazy, multilingual, international world and explore these questions and so much more as I open up about my personal experiences over a cup of coffee, Americano, espresso, cafe solo, or whatever gets you moving! For more, please follow me also on Instagram at Quiero un Panino con Cheese | |||
| So Where Are You From? | 07 Apr 2025 | 00:37:09 | |
In this episode, we tell the story of how our podcast got its very particular name and how our multicultural backgrounds have brought us to interrogate ourselves regarding issues like nationality, identity, and sense of belonging. After sharing our own crazy mixed-up stories of how we grew up and got to where we are today, Hazel and I discuss the various doubts and concerns that naturally arise when discussing our backgrounds. It all begins with that harrowing question… “So, where are you from?”. Some of the topics we touch on are:
Please hit the follow button and enter this crazy, multilingual, international world and explore these questions and so much more as I open up about my personal experiences over a cup of coffee, Americano, espresso, cafe solo, or whatever gets you moving! For more, please follow me also on Instagram at Quiero un Panino con Cheese | |||
| Happy Holidays??? | 03 Dec 2025 | 00:42:47 | |
In this light-hearted episode, Hazel and Gaia dive into the joys and challenges of navigating the holiday season as part of a multicultural, globally-scattered family. With relatives spread across countries and time zones—and traditions coming from multiple cultures—the holidays can quickly become complicated. They explore:
The episode keeps things warm and fun, offering relatable insights for anyone juggling different backgrounds or trying to craft meaningful holidays in a globalized world. Grab a hot chocolate—or some mulled wine—and enjoy the laughs. Please hit the follow button and enter this crazy, multilingual, international world and explore these questions and so much more as I open up about my personal experiences over a cup of coffee, Americano, espresso, cafe solo, or whatever gets you moving! For more, please follow me also on Instagram at Quiero un Panino con Cheese | |||
| Expat Guilt - with Elisabeth Hutman, multilingual psychotherapist | 19 Nov 2025 | 00:32:42 | |
In this episode, we sit down with Elisabeth Hutman, a multilingual psychologist based in Madrid, to explore a topic many expats quietly struggle with: expat guilt. Together, we unpack questions such as:
Elisabeth offers deep insights and practical advice as we shed light on an emotional experience many expats and immigrants don’t even realize they’re carrying. If you're living abroad and struggling with hard-to-name feelings, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. You can find Elisabeth on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/homeforemotions/?hl=en You can also reach out to her directly at hutman.elisabeth@gmail.com Please hit the follow button and enter this crazy, multilingual, international world and explore these questions and so much more as I open up about my personal experiences over a cup of coffee, Americano, espresso, cafe solo, or whatever gets you moving! For more, please follow me also on Instagram at Quiero un Panino con Cheese | |||
| The Life of an "Embassy Kid" - with author J.K. Amerson López | 05 Nov 2025 | 00:41:38 | |
Today we sit down with J.K. Amerson López, author of Embassy Kid: An American Foreign Service Family Memoir — the first book to tell the story of Foreign Service life from the perspective of a child. Kelly, as she likes to be called, shares vivid memories of growing up as the eldest daughter of a U.S. Foreign Service officer during a turbulent era beginning in the late 1950s. From moving between countries to adapting to new cultures, she reflects on what it meant for her and her family to be known as “Embassy People” and how those experiences shaped her identity. In this heartfelt and eye-opening conversation, Kelly opens up about:
This episode offers a rare, behind-the-scenes look at the Foreign Service experience — through the eyes of someone who lived it from childhood. You can follow Kelly on Instagram at realembassykid and you can read more about her life and adventures on her blog at www.embassykid.com Her book Embassy Kid: An American Foreign Service Memoir, is available on AMAZON Please hit the follow button and enter this crazy, multilingual, international world and explore these questions and so much more as I open up about my personal experiences over a cup of coffee, Americano, espresso, cafe solo, or whatever gets you moving! For more, please follow me also on Instagram at Quiero un Panino con Cheese | |||
| Parenting and Educating Across Borders with Kat Simison – Brewster Madrid | 22 Oct 2025 | 00:36:26 | |
In this inspiring episode, we chat with the wonderful Kat Simison from Brewster Madrid. Kat wears many hats — she’s Brewster’s Director of Enrollment and External Affairs, an educator, and a mom raising a daughter between two homes: Spain and the USA. Our conversation dives deep into what it means to raise and educate children across cultures. Kat shares insightful stories that weave together her personal journey as a parent of a bi-cultural, bilingual child and her professional role supporting internationally minded students at Brewster — many of whom are Third Culture Kids (TCKs) navigating complex cultural identities. Some highlights from our discussion include:
This episode is full of warmth, humor, and wisdom. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or simply curious about cross-cultural life, Kat’s reflections will resonate deeply. Tune in to learn, laugh, and be inspired by the stories of raising and educating across borders! More information on Brewster Madrid can be found on their website: https://www.brewstermadrid.com/ Kat Simison can be reached directly at kat.simison@brewstermadrid.com Additional information can be requested at admissions@brewstermadrid.com Please hit the follow button and enter this crazy, multilingual, international world and explore these questions and so much more as I open up about my personal experiences over a cup of coffee, Americano, espresso, cafe solo, or whatever gets you moving! For more, please follow me also on Instagram at Quiero un Panino con Cheese | |||
| Building a TCK Community with Markian Benhamou | 08 Oct 2025 | 00:34:27 | |
Markian Benhamou on the TCK Experience and Building Global Community In this episode, we sit down with Markian Benhamou — creator, content entrepreneur, and founder of the Smile Squad — to explore what it means to grow up as a Third Culture Kid (TCK) and how that experience has shaped his mission to build community across cultures. Markian shares his journey of growing up between worlds, the challenges of identity and belonging, and how his multicultural background inspired him to create spaces — both online and offline — where global citizens can connect through shared experiences. From humorous takes on cross-cultural life to the deeper reflections behind his videos, Markian opens up about the power of storytelling, empathy, and finding “home” in sensations rather than places. Key themes include:
Whether you’re a TCK yourself, a global nomad, or simply curious about life between cultures, this episode offers an honest, uplifting look into the beauty and complexity of growing up globally. Please hit the follow button and enter this crazy, multilingual, international world and explore these questions and so much more as I open up about my personal experiences over a cup of coffee, Americano, espresso, cafe solo, or whatever gets you moving! For more, please follow me also on Instagram at Quiero un Panino con Cheese | |||
| Our Top Culture Shocks | 24 Sep 2025 | 00:39:14 | |
Have you ever traveled somewhere and found yourself in a situation that felt completely foreign—even uncomfortable—because it was normal for the locals but so unusual for you? That’s culture shock. And that’s exactly what Hazel and Gaia dive into in today’s episode. Having lived in various countries around the world, they’ve both had their fair share of moments where local customs clashed with their own expectations—sometimes leading to hilarious, sometimes eye-opening situations. Tune in as they each share their top three culture shocks from living abroad and reflect on how those experiences shaped them. Exploring new cultures is always a chance to learn. Sometimes we adopt what resonates with us, and other times we recognize what we can’t accept and leave it behind. Either way, every encounter helps us grow, expand our horizons, and cultivate tolerance and acceptance. Please hit the follow button and enter this crazy, multilingual, international world and explore these questions and so much more as I open up about my personal experiences over a cup of coffee, Americano, espresso, cafe solo, or whatever gets you moving! For more, please follow me also on Instagram at Quiero un Panino con Cheese | |||
| The Name Game | 10 Sep 2025 | 00:34:00 | |
Naming a baby should be one of the most joyful parts of expecting. But when families cross borders, cultures, and languages, this “fun” task can quickly turn into a puzzle. In this episode of Quiero un Panino con Cheese, we explore the complexities of choosing a name that works across multiple worlds. From avoiding awkward translations to navigating legal requirements in different countries, to finding names that kids won’t get teased for, we dive into the challenges (and comedy) of the naming process. Along the way, we share our own personal stories about names—how our experiences shaped the way we approached naming our children, and why we may have been a little “extra careful.” This episode is funny, relatable, and packed with practical advice for anyone currently playing The Name Game. Please hit the follow button and enter this crazy, multilingual, international world and explore these questions and so much more as I open up about my personal experiences over a cup of coffee, Americano, espresso, cafe solo, or whatever gets you moving! For more, please follow me also on Instagram at Quiero un Panino con Cheese | |||
| Expatting, but 65 years ago - with Nicoletta Loewenherz | 27 Aug 2025 | 00:35:08 | |
What would it be like to leave everything you’ve ever known — your family, your hometown, your traditions — at just 23 years old and start a life abroad? Now imagine doing it 65 years ago, without the internet, Google Maps, cell phones, Duolingo, or even reliable landlines. That’s the incredible journey of our guest, Nicoletta Loewenherz, who “expatted” long before the word was even common. Now 87 years old, Nicoletta shares wonderful stories and timeless wisdom from a life lived across countries, continents, and cultures. In our conversation, we talk about: Nicoletta’s closing advice to anyone considering this lifestyle is absolutely golden — inspiring, practical, and heartfelt. 🎙️ This is an episode you won’t want to miss! Please hit the follow button and enter this crazy, multilingual, international world and explore these questions and so much more as I open up about my personal experiences over a cup of coffee, Americano, espresso, cafe solo, or whatever gets you moving! For more, please follow me also on Instagram at Quiero un Panino con Cheese | |||
| Season 2 Teaser! Welcome back | 11 Feb 2026 | 00:02:16 | |
Season 2 of Quiero un Panino con Cheese is almost here. After a heartfelt and meaningful first season, I want to express my deep gratitude to my co-host, Hazel, whose energy and care helped shape this podcast. Due to professional commitments, she won’t be continuing into season two, and I wish her nothing but the very best. This new season marks a fresh chapter. I’ll be hosting solo, with a stronger focus on guest conversations featuring TCKs, parents, educators, creatives, and multicultural voices from around the world. Together, we’ll explore identity, belonging, home, language, family, and the beautifully complex realities of living between cultures. Season 2 is about expanding the table and continuing the conversation—and I’d love for you to be part of it. New episodes are coming soon. Stay curious. Please hit the follow button and enter this crazy, multilingual, international world and explore these questions and so much more as I open up about my personal experiences over a cup of coffee, Americano, espresso, cafe solo, or whatever gets you moving! For more, please follow me also on Instagram at Quiero un Panino con Cheese | |||