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Passport to Wealth™
Passport to Wealth™
Author: Passport to Wealth™
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Whether you're a U.S. expat, a digital nomad, or someone with ties to the US looking to explore opportunities abroad, join us on Passport to Wealth™. Here we dive into the nuances of cross-border living as a US citizen living abroad.
We'll be delving into essential topics such as managing your money while living abroad, staying compliant with US tax regulations, and uncovering stories of fellow expats who have forged the path to financial freedom while living abroad.
So, grab your passport and join us on this journey!
We'll be delving into essential topics such as managing your money while living abroad, staying compliant with US tax regulations, and uncovering stories of fellow expats who have forged the path to financial freedom while living abroad.
So, grab your passport and join us on this journey!
58 Episodes
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In this episode of Passport to Wealth™, host Arielle Tucker, CFP®, EA, sits down with Christopher J. Hughey, entrepreneur and founder of Americans Moving to Spain, to uncover what US citizens really need to know before taking the leap abroad. From navigating Spain’s digital nomad and non-lucrative visas to understanding how culture, bureaucracy, and lifestyle differ from the US, this episode pulls back the curtain on what life in Spain truly looks like for Americans.Christopher shares what inspired him to create a platform helping thousands of US expats move abroad, the most common mistakes Americans make when relocating to Spain, and how to prepare financially, emotionally, and logistically for your move. Whether you’re exploring retirement abroad, remote work in Spain, or simply dreaming of Mediterranean life, this conversation is packed with actionable insight, practical visa guidance, and hard-earned wisdom for anyone ready to start a new chapter overseas.
In this episode of Passport to Wealth™, host Arielle Tucker, CFP®, EA is joined by cross-border financial expert Jane Mepham, CFP®, founder of Elgon Financial Advisors and host of the International Money Cafe podcast. Together, they dive deep into the financial, legal, and tax challenges immigrants, expats, and globally mobile professionals face when moving to or from the United States.Whether you're entering the U.S. on a work visa like H-1B or L-1, or preparing to repatriate or retire abroad, this episode covers the real-world planning opportunities and pitfalls that could cost you thousands if overlooked. This episode is essential listening for immigrants, foreign nationals, and U.S. expats who want to make smarter financial decisions and avoid the common traps around taxation, compliance, and wealth preservation.
In this episode of Passport to Wealth™, host Arielle Tucker, CFP®, EA sits down with Ambika Mathur, model, creator, and founder of Travel with Amby, to explore her journey from Southern California to Naples, Italy. After dreaming of life abroad for years, Ambika took a leap of faith by booking a one-way ticket to Europe that led her not only to a new country but also to love. Today, she shares her honest insights about what it’s really like to move abroad as an American: from navigating visas and language barriers to finding belonging in a new culture. Together, Arielle and Ambika discuss the realities of expat life, the challenges of starting over, and the rewards of embracing uncertainty. Whether you’re considering your own move overseas or simply curious about life in Italy, this episode offers both inspiration and practical wisdom for your global journey.
In this episode of the Passport to Wealth™, host Arielle Tucker, CFP®, EA, sits down with Saaya Sorrells-Weatherford, the CEO and co-founder of Emigreat, a regtech startup simplifying the global relocation process for companies and immigrants alike.Saaya shares her deeply personal story of navigating complex immigration systems across multiple countries, from her multicultural upbringing in Japan to building a purpose-driven tech company in Sweden. Together, Arielle and Saaya discuss the realities of moving abroad, the hidden challenges of cross-border living, and the rising global trends shaping immigration policy. This thoughtful conversation unpacks what it means to be an “accidental entrepreneur,” the biases immigrants face in international job markets, and how technology can make relocation fairer and more transparent.Whether you’re an aspiring expat, startup founder, or globally minded professional, this episode offers practical insights into resilience, adaptability, and building meaningful impact through innovation.
Raising children abroad comes with unique rewards and challenges. In this episode, host Arielle Tucker, CFP® EA, sits down with Angela Vitiello MBA, MS Ed, founder of the Expat Parenting Collective, to explore how globally mobile families can thrive through transition. A coach, researcher, and expat parenting expert, Angela has lived in four countries across three continents and now helps families strengthen their communication, resilience, and relationships as they navigate expat life.From identity shifts and parental burnout to raising third culture kids and managing cross-cultural partnerships, Angela shares her research and lived experience to help parents build emotional awareness, stronger partnerships, and healthier family systems abroad.Whether you are preparing for your first international move or already raising your family overseas, this conversation will help you understand how to create stability, connection, and growth in your expat journey.
Have you ever wondered if it’s too late to move abroad after 30? For many women, the idea of starting fresh overseas feels out of reach, but Cepee Tabibian, founder of She Hit Refresh, proves otherwise.At 35, she sold her belongings, left Texas, and moved to Spain, a dream she had been chasing since she first visited Madrid at 21. That leap changed her life and sparked a movement.Today, Cepee is the author of I’m Outta Here: An American’s Ultimate Visa Guide to Living in Europe, featured in Forbes as a trusted resource for Americans navigating the visa process. Through her masterclasses, her private membership community, and the She Hit Refresh social platforms, she has helped thousands of women over 30 take their own bold steps toward a life abroad.In this episode, Cepee talks about the real challenges US expats face, from housing and bureaucracy to finding lasting friendships. Cepee explains how digital nomad and retirement visas are opening new doors for US expats, why Albania is becoming a surprising destination, and how mindset and patience are just as important as logistics when you’re moving overseas.If you’re a woman dreaming of a new chapter in Spain, Portugal, Mexico, or beyond, Cepee’s story will inspire you to get clear on your vision and take practical steps toward building a life you love abroad.
In this episode of Passport to Wealth™, host Arielle Tucker, CFP®, EA, sits down with Jen Barnett, co-founder of Expatsi. She shares her personal story of leaving Alabama for Mérida, Mexico, and how her journey inspired the creation of Expatsi’s country-matching test and upcoming app.Jen also shares how she built the Expatsi Test to match Americans with their ideal country and how Expatsi now supports people through every step of the move-abroad process. From ideation to paperwork, logistics, and settling in, Expatsi is helping thousands of Americans create intentional lives abroad. Jen also reveals insights into today’s expat trends, the countries most Americans are drawn to, and her ambitious goal of moving 1 million Americans overseas.Whether you’re seeking better cost of living, healthcare, community, or new adventures, this episode offers practical strategies and encouragement for building your dream life overseas.
George Kinder, internationally recognized as the father of the Life Planning movement, joins Arielle Tucker, CFP®, EA on Passport to Wealth™ for a transformative conversation about money, purpose, and living intentionally abroad.Kinder is the founder of the Kinder Institute of Life Planning and the author of 12 books, including the groundbreaking The Seven Stages of Money Maturity, Lighting the Torch, and Life Planning for You. His pioneering work has inspired thousands of advisors and clients worldwide to center financial planning on people’s deepest values and life goals rather than just portfolios and spreadsheets.In this episode, George shares his own expat journey of relocating to London at age 77 on the prestigious UK Innovator Founder Visa, proving it’s never too late to start a bold new chapter. He discusses his philosophy of “fiduciary in all things,” the three life-changing questions he’s known for, and why mindfulness and intentionality are at the core of financial and personal fulfillment.For US expats and globally minded Americans, this episode offers a powerful reminder: true wealth is about aligning your money with your life’s purpose.
Dreaming of starting a new life in Germany? In this episode of Passport to Wealth™, Arielle Tucker, CFP®, EA, sits down with immigration and relocation specialists Hannah S. and Hena Vega Larios of Start Relocation to unpack the realities of moving abroad as a U.S. citizen. From navigating German immigration laws to securing a visa, finding housing, and adjusting to the culture, they share practical insights that make the transition to life in Germany smoother and more successful.The conversation highlights the new Opportunity Card visa, a game-changing option for job seekers, and breaks down what Americans need to know about preparing documents such as translations, apostilles, and degree recognition. Hannah and Hena also explain why planning ahead is critical, how to avoid common immigration mistakes, and what everyday costs look like when comparing life in Germany versus the United States. They stress the importance of learning German early to ease cultural adjustment and share personal stories that reveal the challenges and rewards of international relocation.Whether you’re moving for a company transfer, following love, or simply seeking a fresh start abroad, this episode provides the essential knowledge US expats need to confidently plan their move and thrive in Germany.
In this episode of Passport to Wealth™, host Arielle Tucker, CFP®, EA sits down with Alex Ingrim, CEO of Liberty Atlantic Advisors, to unpack the realities of living abroad as an American in Italy. From navigating U.S. expat taxes and avoiding costly cross-border mistakes, to understanding Italy’s tax incentives like the 7% flat tax and impatriate regime, Alex brings his insider expertise to help you plan smarter.Together, Arielle and Alex discuss what everyday life in Italy looks like: family rhythms, financial culture, and the slower pace that often surprises new expats. They dive into the most common financial planning mistakes Americans make when moving to Italy, how U.S. assets are taxed abroad, and what proactive strategies can make the transition smoother.If you’re considering a move to Italy, or already there but feeling overwhelmed, this episode is full of actionable expat advice to help you build a more secure and fulfilling life overseas.
In this episode of Passport to Wealth™, Arielle Tucker, CFP®, EA, interviews Brandon Mitchener, Executive Director of Tax Fairness for Americans Abroad, to unpack the urgent fight for residence-based taxation.Brandon shares his personal story of living more than 35 years in Europe while still being subject to citizenship-based taxation (CBT) a system that forces millions of Americans abroad to file and pay U.S. taxes despite earning no U.S. income.Together, they explore the financial discrimination expats face, from banking restrictions and compliance costs to lost retirement opportunities and gender inequities.Listeners will learn why citizenship-based taxation is outdated, how residence-based taxation (RBT) works in the rest of the world, and what legislative efforts are underway in Congress to finally bring fairness to Americans abroad. Brandon explains the current progress of the Residence-Based Taxation for Americans Abroad Act, the bipartisan support behind it, and why expats must share their stories with Congress to help push reform over the finish line.If you’re a U.S. citizen living abroad struggling with unfair tax obligations, this conversation will show you that change is possible and how you can be part of it.
In this episode of Passport to Wealth™, Arielle Tucker, CFP®, EA sits down with Bethany Stevens, founder of Your Sign to Siesta, to discuss how burnout, big life changes, and a desire for deeper alignment can spark a life abroad.Bethany opens up about leaving the U.S. to escape the hustle and have more time for what really matters. She explains why she chose Spain as her new home, and how her experience inspired her to launch a platform dedicated to helping other Americans reimagine rest and reinvention overseas.From navigating Spain’s Non-Lucrative Visa to learning to slow down in a new culture, Bethany shares relatable insights for expats, creatives, and anyone craving more balance in life. This is a must-listen for anyone who’s ever dreamed of stepping away from the hustle and toward a life rooted in well-being, clarity, and intentional living.Whether you're exploring a sabbatical, planning your move to Spain, or just need a little push to rethink your pace of life, this episode is your sign to siesta.
In this episode of Passport to Wealth™, Arielle Tucker, CFP®, EA sits down with Céline Flores-Tavukcuoglu, founder and CEO of Céline Concierge, a bespoke luxury concierge service based in Paris. Originally from Texas, Céline shares how a one-way ticket to France turned into a 12-year journey building a thriving business and life in the City of Light.Céline walks us through her transition from film production to entrepreneurship, the realities of French bureaucracy, and the visa challenges many Americans overlook when moving abroad. Together, she and Arielle dive into the complexities of cross-border taxes, self-employment, and starting a business as a U.S. citizen in France.Whether you're a dreamer planning your move to Paris or already navigating expat life, this episode delivers real talk and expert insight.
In this episode of Passport to Wealth™, Arielle Tucker, CFP®, EA sits down with Nicolás Castillo, CPA, founder of Rook International CPAs and Advisors, to demystify the tax complexities U.S. expats face abroad. From setting up a business in Spain to navigating Social Security agreements and international tax filings, Nicolás shares practical advice for digital nomads, remote workers, and entrepreneurs building global lives. U.S. expat taxation is notoriously complicated, but Nicolás breaks down everything from the Beckham Law and self-employment pitfalls to how tax treaties and reporting thresholds really work. Learn how to avoid the most common filing mistakes, why most Americans still need to file a tax return abroad, and how to legally reduce your tax burden while living in Spain, France, Italy, and beyond. If you're a U.S. citizen managing income across borders.Whether you're planning your move or already living overseas, this episode is packed with tax-smart strategies you can't afford to miss.
In this episode of Passport to Wealth™, host Arielle Tucker, CFP®, EA, welcomes Bethany Quinn, founder of GTFO Tours, for a candid conversation about relocation, reinvention, and what’s driving more Americans especially women and LGBTQ+ folks to seriously consider life abroad.Bethany shares how her own political and professional burnout in the U.S. led her to make a bold leap to the Netherlands, where she now helps others navigate their own exits. What started as a personal move turned into a full-fledged movement: GTFO Tours now provides community, coaching, and in-person support for Americans ready to start a new chapter overseas.Together, Arielle and Bethany explore everything from visa logistics (including the Dutch-American Friendship Treaty) to relocation trends for 2025 and beyond, cultural shocks, and the emotional experience of being a first-time immigrant. Whether you’re dreaming of beaches in Panama or building a life in Europe, this episode is equal parts inspiration and practical roadmap. Listen now and discover what’s possible when you stop waiting and start planning your ideal life abroad.
In this episode of Passport to Wealth™, Arielle Tucker, CFP®, EA sits down with Matthew Hitchcock, CPA and founder of Hitchcock & Partner GmbH, to demystify one of the most complex and misunderstood parts of expat taxes: Passive Foreign Investment Companies (PFICs).Whether you're investing in a foreign mutual fund or unknowingly triggering PFIC rules through a local retirement account, Matthew breaks down exactly how PFICs work, why they exist, and the real risks of getting it wrong, including harsh tax penalties and indefinite IRS examination windows.If you’re a U.S. citizen living abroad and investing globally, this episode is a must-listen. Learn how to avoid costly mistakes, stay compliant, and build a tax strategy that supports your long-term financial freedom.
What would make an American academic sell everything and move across the world for a new career? In this episode of Passport to Wealth™, Arielle Tucker, CFP®, EA sits down with Dr. Jonah Otto, Assistant Professor at the University of Augsburg, to unpack what’s driving more U.S. scholars to consider international academic careers particularly in Germany.Jonah shares his personal journey from Indiana to Europe, where a partnership between universities turned into a fully funded PhD opportunity, a civil servant academic position, and eventually German citizenship. Together, Arielle and Jonah explore the major differences between U.S. and German university systems, from the way academic roles are structured to the surprising amount of autonomy and research freedom afforded to professors abroad.They also dive into the concept of the “academic brain drain,” the push and pull factors influencing scholars today, and why long-term planning, especially around residency and citizenship, is becoming essential for academics looking to thrive outside the U.S. Whether you’re curious about teaching abroad, interested in earning a PhD overseas, or simply exploring more fulfilling career paths, this conversation offers a refreshingly honest look at what’s possible. If you're interested in Jonah's research you can find it here.
In this episode of Passport to Wealth™, Vivian Najib, founder of FTB Home and creator of The Expat Diaries newsletter, sits down with us to explore what it really takes to build a life you love in a new country.Vivian’s journey began with a one-way ticket to Thailand and unfolded into a 9-year global adventure through Cambodia, Vietnam, and long-term house-sitting across Europe before finally landing in Portugal. She shares what it was like to navigate culture shock, secure legal residency, and slowly build a version of home that felt true to her.This candid conversation is full of wisdom, laughter, and hard-earned insight whether you’re still dreaming of expat life or deep in the process of figuring it out.
Welcome back to Passport To Wealth! I'm Arielle Tucker CFP®, EA, and today’s episode is a short but meaningful send-off to our very first season.When Savannah and I launched this podcast, our mission was clear: to inform, empower, and support U.S. expats navigating life and money abroad.From cross-border taxes and cultural transitions to entrepreneurship and investing overseas, Season 1 covered a wide range of real-life topics with stories from around the globe. I’m so grateful to Savannah for co-hosting this journey with me and to you, our listeners, for tuning in. Season 2 is coming this July, with an exciting lineup of expat voices, finance experts, and more global insights you won’t want to miss. Follow us on Instagram @PassporttowealthofficialExplore more at Passport To Wealth™ Subscribe now so you don’t miss what’s next.Until then, stay curious and remember: wherever you go, you can build wealth, live well, and feel at home.
In this episode, we are joined by Emily Haines, CPA, and founder of Xpatax Solutions. Emily is an expert in U.S. taxation for expats, with years of experience helping individuals navigate the complexities of cross-border tax compliance. She specializes in making tax planning more accessible and stress-free, especially for Americans living in or connected to Germany.We dive into Emily’s personal journey, from how she ended up in Germany to how she fell in love with the country and eventually built her company. She shares what it was like to integrate into a new culture, build a community, and transition her career as an expat. We also explore her experiences living in both Berlin and London, and the distinct differences between the two.Throughout the conversation, Emily emphasizes the importance of understanding cultural nuances and local systems, key elements that can make or break a successful expat experience.






