Finding Your Place

About Finding Your Place

Welcome to 'Finding Your Place!' Every month, join me as I interview people from all over the world to find out how they found their place, a place they call home. We'll discuss everything from cultures and lifestyles to how they got there, why they chose that city/country, and even share tips that could be useful when moving abroad. This podcast aims to broaden your cultural knowledge and assist you if you're considering a move overseas. If you have any questions, please email me at findingyourplacebyelena@gmail.com.

Publisher

Elena Livadaru

Category

society & culture

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

23 Nov 2020

Latest episode

20 Mar 2024

Latest episodes

18 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   20 Mar 2024

   Moving from Lithuania to the UK, Czech Republic, USA and Australia: Diana's Journey!

   In this episode of "Finding Your Place," I chat with my friend Diana, who has seen more of the world than most of us can imagine. She's visited 100 countries and lived in places like the UK, Lithuania, the USA, the Czech Republic, and Australia. Diana shares some amazing stories about living in different countries. More importantly, she gives advice for anyone thinking about moving abroad or chasing big dreams. Even if you're not planning to move, there's something in her story for everyone. Tune in for tips and tales from someone who's made the world her home.

2. 

   14 Oct 2023

   Juliana's leap of faith: from Brazil's warmth to Portugal's charm and the UK's mystery. Unpacking cultural realities.

   In this heartfelt episode of 'Finding Your Place', Juliana takes us on her personal journey from the sunny streets of Brazil to the historic alleys of Portugal and finally, to the bustling cities of the UK. Without ever having set foot in the UK prior to her move, Juliana's story is a testament to listening to one's intuition and taking bold steps. We dive deep into cultural nuances, comparing the vibrancy of Brazil with the warmth of Portugal and the unique charm of the UK. Join us as we explore the challenges of leaving a comfortable life behind, the beauty of discovering new cultures, and the underlying thread of humanity that connects us all. An episode that's not just about moving geographically, but also about personal growth and finding one's true calling.

3. 

   17 Aug 2023

   Moving from Moldova to South Korea: Victoria's Journey!

   South Korea, a country that was once a distant dream for many, has now turned into a desirable destination, especially for the younger generation, thanks to the magnetic pull of Kpop and its vibrant culture. However, rewind back 12 years when I first met Victoria, and the notion of moving to South Korea was met with incredulity. It seemed like an offbeat aspiration, an unconventional path to pursue. Fast forward to 5 years ago, Victoria took a leap of faith and embarked on her journey to Korea. Her experiences offer a fascinating glimpse into the country's transformation and the facets that have made it a magnet for dreamers. One aspect that stands out is the safety quotient. Victoria points out how safe it is nowadays to send your kids to school and daycare, a luxury that not many places can boast. Even strolling at night carries an air of safety, where the freedom to step out at 2 a.m., grab a snack from the convenience store, and leisurely walk back home is a norm. This level of security adds a unique flavour to life, contributing to the allure of South Korea. To explore the full advantages and disadvantages of South Korea from the perspective of an expat, tune in to Victoria's story. Her journey offers an intimate peek into the nuances of life in this dynamic nation, illuminating both the highs and the realities that shape the expat experience.

4. 

   10 Jul 2023

   From Czechia to Finland, Asalya's journey to finding a home far away from home

   When I interviewed Asalya two years ago, it didn't even cross my mind that she would move abroad again. She was so content with her life in the Czech Republic that I had no doubts. You can go back and listen to her episode in Season 1. However, Asalya surprised us all when she made the decision to move to Finland a year ago. In this episode, we delve into her fascinating journey of finding a new home far away from home. During our conversation, we explore the unique aspects of Finnish culture, from the renowned tradition of sauna to the intriguing architecture of Finnish houses. Asalya shares her experiences and observations, shedding light on the quirks and charms of her new surroundings. But that's not all! We also dive into the culinary adventures Asalya has encountered in Finland. She discovered a particularly strange dessert that left her both bewildered and delighted. Tune in to hear all about this intriguing culinary discovery. And let's not forget about Asalya's viral TikToks! She has been creating captivating content that showcases her life in Finland. Be sure to check out the link below to watch her TikToks and join the thousands of viewers who have been captivated by her unique perspective. Join us in this episode as we explore Asalya's journey, her insights into Finnish culture, and the delightful surprises she has encountered along the way. It's a story that reminds us that home can be found even in the most unexpected places https://www.tiktok.com/@datgurl_asalya?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc

5. 

   21 Jun 2023

   Grigore's Global Journey: From Moldova to the Portugal, Georgia, Lithuania, Armenia

   Hey there, wanderers! In this week's episode of 'Finding Your Place', we're taking a trip down memory lane, but with a twist. I'm thrilled to have my childhood friend Grigore on the podcast, someone who's not just a friend but a fellow traveller and explorer, just like us! Grigore and I share more than just childhood memories from Moldova; we share an insatiable thirst for new experiences and cultures. He's lived in Portugal, Poland, Lithuania, Armenia, and Georgia, and will share his firsthand accounts of the cultures, the highs, the lows, and everything in between. But this episode isn't just about Grigore's adventures. It's also about our shared homeland, Moldova. If you've never thought about visiting Moldova, buckle up because this episode might just change your mind. From our love for the place to the reasons why we didn't go back, we delve deep into our personal stories intertwined with the history, politics, and economics of our homeland. It's a hearty mix of cultural insights, personal reflections, and a dash of nostalgia. A first for 'Finding Your Place' as we venture into the realms of history and geopolitics, all through the lens of personal experiences. So grab your favourite brew, get comfortable, and join us on this fascinating journey. You're in for a treat!"

6. 

   1 Jun 2023

   Noza's Empowering Journey: Finding Strength and Identity Across Borders as a Woman. From Uzbekistan to Australia, Russia, and France

   Prepare yourself for an incredibly personal and eye-opening episode as Elena sits down with Noza, a brave soul hailing from Uzbekistan. In this heartfelt conversation, Noza shares her remarkable journey of self-discovery, shedding light on the challenges faced by women in different countries and her deep desire to escape her homeland. With raw honesty, Noza recounts her experiences navigating the complexities of cultural norms, from the limitations imposed on women to the pressures she felt growing up. Her candid storytelling unveils the hardships she faced and the resilience she found within herself to break free from societal expectations. Through Noza's words, you'll gain a deeper understanding of the struggles she encountered, from leaving her home country to adapting to new environments. Her story touches on the realities of being an immigrant and the hurdles she had to overcome, including language barriers and the search for a sense of belonging. In this episode, Noza's narrative resonates with simplicity and authenticity. Her journey serves as a powerful reminder that we all possess the strength to forge our own paths, regardless of the challenges we face. It's an invitation to reflect on our own journeys, embrace our uniqueness, and find the courage to create a life that aligns with our deepest aspirations. Tune in and be inspired by Noza's unwavering spirit as she shares her story of resilience, personal growth, and the pursuit of freedom. Let her words encourage you to embrace your own journey and find the strength to overcome obstacles, rewriting your story in your own authentic voice.

7. 

   17 May 2023

   Moving from Vietnam to Singapore, Canada and the UK: Ray's Journey!

   When Ray was just 14, he swapped the familiar streets of Vietnam for the bustling cityscape of Singapore, embarking on an international journey that would shape his personality and perspective on life. In this eye-opening episode, Ray pulls back the curtain on his experiences living in Singapore, Canada, the UK, and his return to Vietnam after 15 years of being an expat. From his first impressions of each new country to the fascinating insights into how these vastly different cultures shaped his identity, Ray will walk you through the transformative journey that was his life abroad. It took him years of adapting, growing, and learning to truly call these places home, but each one left an indelible mark on who he is today. Our conversation delves deep into Ray's life, covering everything from his views on the different education systems and work cultures, to the social and cultural nuances he had to navigate. Ray shares candidly about how his time abroad has changed him and what it feels like to return to Vietnam with a completely different mindset. But it's not just about his personal growth. Ray also offers invaluable advice to anyone considering a move abroad, drawing from his own experiences to provide a unique perspective on adapting to new cultures, environments, and ways of life. The discussion takes an intriguing turn towards the end, as Ray reveals what it feels like to be a local again in his homeland. He reflects on the striking differences in mentality between Vietnam and the countries he lived in and how he reconciles his evolved self with his roots. If you've ever wondered what it's like to move abroad at a young age, or are seeking advice on adapting to a new place, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in to hear Ray's captivating stories about living across the world and rediscovering his home country.

8. 

   15 Apr 2021

   Moving from Uzbekistan to Czechia: Asalya's Journey, home is where you feel safe!

   Asalya moved abroad when she was 17. Prague for her wasn't a dream. It was a suggestion that she gladly accepted. From her first impression of the city to her thoughts on changing the country where she lives, Asalya will unveil her experience in this episode. It took Asalya four years to call the place home. In our conversation, we cover all the "whys" someone should leave Prague and why people want to stay. We talk about what will help you to adapt quickly. Asalya unveils her daily life experiences in Czechia: from dating to alcohol from university to career development. Our discussion goes beyond crazy at the end, where she told us her story of becoming a local. Asalya talks about the differences in mentality between Czechia and Uzbekistan and how she learned to adapt to the Czech lifestyle in her daily life. If you need advice on how to adapt quickly to a new place, this episode will help you.

9. 

   11 Mar 2021

   From Australia to the UK, Karla's Journey: is good coffee the recipe for a happy life?

   Yes, we did have an episode about moving to London, but no that episode did not cover everything. I want to highlight with this episode that although it may be the same cities, people have different experiences based on the place where they lived before. So you will get to know different reasons for choosing Australia or UK. In this episode, Karla talks about the differences in lifestyles. Karla covers everything from education in high school, coffee, dating, community, and friends. She explains why Australians are so chilled. Also, Karla unveils why she gave up the warm weather for the rainy days in London. Together we discuss things that one should know before moving to Australia or UK. So get ready to dive deep into some interesting experiences, lots of smiles guaranteed. Music at the begging by Kabbalistic Village kabbalisticvillage.com/ (https://gate.sc/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fkabbalisticvillage.com%2F&token=92f57d-1-1608105385491) Background music: https://www.FesliyanStudios.com

10. 

    25 Feb 2021

    From Italy to Iceland, is it worth giving up the warm weather for the icy landscape? Doina's story

    Doina moved from Moldova to Italy to study and be reunited with her mom. The warm weather and good food kept her there for a while. But as an adventurous soul, she and her boyfriend moved to beautiful Iceland to experience stable life. In this episode, Doina talks about the advantages and disadvantages of living in Iceland. She states the reasons for finding holm in Rejkyavik and what is the job market there. If you want to experience travel pretty close to the North pole, listen to this episode as we will take you there. Music at the begging by Kabbalistic Village kabbalisticvillage.com/ (https://gate.sc/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fkabbalisticvillage.com%2F&token=92f57d-1-1608105385491) Background music: https://www.FesliyanStudios.com

11. 

    11 Feb 2021

    Living your best life, why New Zealand can be called home? Ethan's Journey

    Ethan moved from States to Prague when he was 19. Homesick and impressed described him perfectly those times. Five years down the line he managed to move several times and experience life in Hawaii, Australia, and New Zealand. In this episode, he explains what is great about life in New Zealand, why he left the USA and Australia, and what is the secret to finding a home. Every phrase that Ethan says is almost a life lesson advice, and trust me you will want to take notes. If you want to experience the world, this is the episode that virtually will take you through some nice adventures. Music at the begging by Kabbalistic Village kabbalisticvillage.com/ (https://gate.sc/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fkabbalisticvillage.com%2F&token=92f57d-1-1608105385491) Background music: https://www.FesliyanStudios.com

12. 

    28 Jan 2021

    From Kyiv to Budapest and Bratislava: Ana's Journey. Let's talk about relationships abroad

    Ana moved abroad to study when she was 17. She chooses Budapest. After spending three years there decided to relocate to Bratislava. From first impressions about the cities to advantages and disadvantages. Together we discuss how life is in Bratislava, how to adapt to the city life, how is the dating scene there, and what are mistakes to avoid when moving abroad. Curious about Slovakian culture and life in Bratislava? Listen to this episode. You are going to love it. Music at the begging by Kabbalistic Village kabbalisticvillage.com/ (https://gate.sc/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fkabbalisticvillage.com%2F&token=92f57d-1-1608105385491) Background music: https://www.FesliyanStudios.com

13. 

    21 Jan 2021

    Moving from India to UK and back to India: Tap's Journey, home is where you are accepted?

    Taps had pretty comfortable in India, but he never felt accepted. He chooses Brighton at the age of 19 and found a home there. This year he returned to India. Questioning why? Listen to this episode where we unveil the best reason to choose Brighton, why people love living in India. Together we discuss how difficult is to find a home as a gay person and why making changes is good. Taps will give you some awesome advice about how to enjoy life abroad. He will tell you all the reasons why you should or shouldn't move to Brighton. Music by Kabbalistic Village kabbalisticvillage.com/ (https://gate.sc/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fkabbalisticvillage.com%2F&token=92f57d-1-1608105385491)

14. 

    7 Jan 2021

    Dream life in Canada, why you should not move there? Val's Journey

    Val moved abroad for the first time when she was 17. Her first experience went much better than she expected. Val lived the high school life that we all saw through the screen in American movies. In this episode, she unveils her experience of moving to the USA and then Canada. Our discussion goes beyond the amazing Canadian' health care system- the most known fact about Canada. We also get a little bit sentimental when we talk about how difficult it was to move abroad with no money. Val talks about why someone shouldn't move to Canada and how to find your home in a country that seems so far away and cold. If you are curious about life in Canada, this is the episode that you do not want to miss.

15. 

    24 Dec 2020

    Moving from USA to France: Alex's Journey, how to become a local?

    Alex never wanted to live the American dream, but somehow got the opportunity to do it. In this episode, he unveils how it feels moving to the USA and back to Europe. What are the main differences between cultures? What to expect when eating your cheesecake alone in the USA versus France? Why Americans are into watching games? Why getting to know the food is the key to adaptation in France. Together we discuss the meaning of being a local and how to celebrate, properly, Christmas? If you are interested in everything culture, this is the episode that you do not want to miss. Music by Kabbalistic Village kabbalisticvillage.com/ (https://gate.sc/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fkabbalisticvillage.com%2F&token=92f57d-1-1608105385491)

16. 

    16 Dec 2020

    Vivi's journey: Moving to Copenhagen, what is the secret of Danish happiness?

    In this episode, I and my close friend Vivi, discuss moving to Copenhagen. From moving to Romania, France and Germany, Vivi talks about how she found a place to call home in Copenhagen. We cover how life is in Denmark, what is the secret of Danish happiness and why Danish people do not say please. Curious about ex-pats life in Denmark, then listen to this episode. Music by Kabbalistic Village kabbalisticvillage.com/ (https://gate.sc/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fkabbalisticvillage.com%2F&token=92f57d-1-1608105385491)

17. 

    4 Dec 2020

    Alina's journey: Moving from Kazakhstan to Prague, why LA is not a dream place!

    In this episode, Alina is telling us her story of how she got to Prague. From her first impressions of Europe at the age of 12 to the best experience of her life moving to Los Angeles, Alina is opening up on topics that anyone should know before considering moving or send their child to Prague. The conversation becomes spicy when we talk about weed and other things in Prague. Listen to the episode till the end as Alina reveals the ultimate test for finding out if you can call your city home.

18. 

    23 Nov 2020

    My journey moving from Moldova to London

    In the first episode of Finding Your Place, I am telling my story about moving to London and how I experienced the cultural shock here. From Chisinau to Prague and then all the way to London this is the story about how all the roads brought me to London. I am going to tell you how is living here and what you need to take into consideration before moving here.

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Spotify

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