Whereabouts Tales

Buckle up, because this episode with Greg was a wild ride, and I mean that literally! We kicked things off talking about my latest thrill on the Autobahn, hitting speeds most people only dream of (0:37). But beyond the adrenaline, this led us down a fascinating road trip through the impact of technology on society, exploring how everything feels so slow once you step off that fast lane (2:07).I was so excited to dive deep into the future of humanity, especially with Greg's insights on AI and automation. We pondered how AI is already reshaping our job market and the critical question of what kind of economy exists when machines can fulfill most human needs (25:20). It’s not just about jobs; we also got into the alarming ways AI is being used for narrative shaping and manipulation on social media (31:10). This made me reflect on my own experiences growing up in communist Romania, where the state meticulously controlled information (12:46), drawing eerie parallels to today's digital landscape.But it wasn't all dystopian. We explored the incredible potential of AI in medicine, particularly its diagnostic capabilities and pattern recognition that could revolutionize healthcare, supporting doctors and saving lives (38:28). This led us to a deeply personal discussion on health and biohacking. I shared my journey with extended fasting and how the body’s innate regenerative processes like autophagy are truly mind-blowing (52:33). We even touched on cutting-edge DNA manipulation and the mRNA vaccine (45:50) – pushing the boundaries of what it means to be human.What truly stuck with me from this conversation was the stark contrast in lifestyles we observed globally. We compared the "live to work" mentality of some cultures with the "work to live" philosophy in places like Southern Europe, where community and family time are paramount (1:33:29). This brought us to questions of societal purpose, the ethics of war in an age of advanced weaponry (1:41:56), and even the philosophical implications of immortality and how we measure time (1:21:01).This episode is a journey through speed, technology, human nature, and the quest for meaning. My key takeaway? We're at a pivotal moment where understanding our past and questioning our "progress" is more crucial than ever. This conversation, while diverging from our usual Cosmos University focus, set the perfect stage for our next deep dive into ancient wisdom. I promise, you won't want to miss it!

In this episode, I had the immense pleasure of sitting down with Arjun Chhabra, whose journey I've come to call 'From Heartbreak in India to Healing in Spain.' I first connected with Arjun after seeing one of his Reddit posts, drawn in by the raw honesty of his story, and quickly realized he was a perfect fit for Whereabouts Tales, embodying the very spirit of transformation.Arjun shares the profoundly personal story of his mother's battle with breast cancer and her tragic passing in 2013 [1:21, 2:40]. This devastating loss plunged him into depression, leading to significant weight gain and a complete loss of direction. I truly felt his pain as he recounted those difficult months of helplessness, searching for answers and finding none.He then opens up about his upbringing in bustling Mumbai, challenging the stereotypes of India we often see. We delve into his unique experience with an arranged marriage [18:38, 20:26], a process that for him, involved surprising honesty and self-discovery.The conversation takes a fascinating turn as Arjun recounts his and his wife’s brave decision to sell everything and move to Spain in late 2019 [32:16], only to be met by the global pandemic [33:32]. This unforeseen challenge forced a major pivot from their organic clothing brand to a deep dive into wellness, reinvesting everything into studying functional medicine and herbalism. I was captivated by their resilience and adaptability.Arjun is now a Mind Expansion Coach, and his insights into the mind-body connection are truly transformative. He explains how our state of mind dictates our well-being [1:09:31], the importance of living in the present moment, and how trauma—even daily stress—can manifest physically. I found his distinction between easy and hard choices, and the long-term impact on our lives, particularly powerful.My key takeaway from our chat is Arjun's profound belief that healing comes from within, through acceptance and an alignment with our true purpose. It's about letting go of emotional baggage and connecting with our higher selves [1:18:05]. He’s dedicated to making wellness accessible through an upcoming online resource library, a book, and even a wellness center in Spain [1:18:41, 1:21:25, 1:25:11]. This conversation is a testament to resilience, purpose, and the incredible power of self-healing. Tune in for a truly inspiring and thought-provoking listen!Chapters00:00 Introduction 01:17 Arjun's Journey: From India to Spain04:06 The Impact of Personal Loss07:18 Growing Up in India: Cultural Insights10:29 Education and Class Systems in India13:29 The Journey to Self-Discovery16:23 The Illusion of Happiness18:54 Family Support and Personal Growth19:02 Arranged Marriages: A Cultural Perspective24:44 The Journey of Arranged Marriage27:59 Transitioning to Entrepreneurship31:08 Exploring Health and Wellness33:26 Relocating to Spain: Challenges and Adaptations41:44 Cultural Shifts and Culinary Experiences48:37 Mind Expansion and Self-Healing01:03:43 Understanding Individual Health Solutions01:08:43 The Role of Inflammation in Healing01:11:14 Mindset and Trauma's Impact on Health01:15:24 Spirituality and Healing Perspectives01:20:03 Creating Accessible Wellness Resources01:22:42 The Journey of Writing a Wellness Book01:26:20 Future Plans for a Wellness Center01:28:23 The Importance of Purpose Over Profit01:30:16 Rapid Fire Insights and Reflections01:37:37 OUTRO

In this episode, I had the immense pleasure of diving deep into the extraordinary journey of Wells Jones, a man who, as I playfully suggested, seems to have lived several lives already. From the moment he started sharing his story, I was captivated, and I know you will be too. Imagine jumping out of a plane over the South Pole, surviving the extreme conditions of Antarctica, and then walking into an acting school in New York City – that’s just a glimpse into Wells’s remarkable path.Wells's incredible adaptability and courage were forged early. Born on an army base and growing up in a bustling household of six kids after losing his father at a young age, he shared a profound insight from his mother: "I think you can do this." This simple belief became a guiding principle, acting as a recurring "tap on the shoulder" throughout his life, akin to the famous Churchill quote he shares (0:08, 0:58:18). This philosophy of embracing opportunities, even when unprepared, truly resonated with me.His decision to join the Navy was a quest for adventure, leading him to the breathtaking and brutal landscape of Antarctica as part of the Antarctic Parachute Rescue Team (0:20:59, 0:26:38). Wells vividly describes precision skydiving, crevasse rescues, and facing unimaginable conditions—like jumping from a C-130 into -59 degree Fahrenheit winds, a moment where he literally felt his hand freeze and thaw in 60 seconds (0:34:57). The raw struggle against nature and the reliance on primitive gear (0:37:04) offered powerful lessons in focus and responsibility.From the sub-zero training grounds, Wells pivoted to the stage, embarking on a fascinating acting career (0:43:13). He shares how a tough instructor taught him to "stop thinking too much and just be yourself" (0:45:53)—a lesson in authenticity that profoundly impacted his approach to life and performance. This led him into directing high-profile productions at places like Lincoln Center and the Kennedy Center (0:54:30, 0:57:24), orchestrating grand events with legendary figures.But the adventures didn't stop there. Wells recounts an audacious plan to trek through the Middle East, tracing T.E. Lawrence's path, a journey that involved 8 months of intense preparation, kidnap & ransom insurance, and an unwavering resolve even after hearing news of a hotel bombing (1:26:00, 1:27:48).Today, Wells is at the forefront of a groundbreaking venture called Reflector (SolTech), a company that uses AI to connect us with loved ones who have passed on. Imagine having an AI-powered conversation with a departed family member, hearing their voice, and revisiting their stories and nuanced responses (0:14:13). This technology is truly pushing the boundaries of legacy and remembrance, making the abstract idea of an "online obituary" a deeply personal and interactive experience.My biggest takeaway from speaking with Wells is the profound power of embracing "flow" (1:01:41)—not passively, but by fully engaging with each opportunity, learning from every challenge, and trusting that the right path will unfold. This episode is a testament to human resilience, curiosity, and the boundless possibilities that emerge when you say "yes" to life's taps on the shoulder. You won't want to miss a single moment of Wells's incredible story.

Join me on a truly special episode of Wereabout Tales as he chats with Anthony and Sam, an inspiring American couple who made the unconventional leap to move to Romania. Anthony, who was adopted from Romania as an infant, and his wife Sam, to explore their incredible journey.From the outset, their story challenges perceptions. They delve into the stark cultural differences between the US and Romania, discussing the decline of community in America post-9/11 and the profound sense of belonging they discovered in their new home (0:57). Anthony shares the deeply personal and emotional tale of tracing his biological roots, a journey initiated by Sam's curiosity, and the surreal experience of reuniting with his birth family through the 'Never Forgotten Romanian Children' network (16:43). The conversation poignantly addresses the 'trolley problem' of his adoption, revealing the heartbreaking circumstances of extreme poverty his Roma family faced in post-communist Romania (35:53), offering a rare and empathetic perspective on a complex issue.Their decision to leave the overwhelming grind of New York life for Romania wasn't instantaneous but solidified after Sam's unexpected panic attack post-holiday (47:58). They candidly discuss the challenges—from navigating Romanian bureaucracy, including Anthony's complex citizenship process (50:54), to the surprisingly difficult task of apartment hunting with two cats (1:05:02). Yet, they’ve found unexpected joys, like discovering a passion for making music (1:07:30) and embracing local delicacies like *slanina* and *pufuleti* (1:31:04).Anthony and Sam's journey is a powerful testament to open-mindedness and embracing the unknown. They encourage listeners, especially prospective expats, to 'leave your preconceived notions about Romania at the door' (1:23:10) and discover its rich, diverse regions and warm hospitality. Living in Sibiu, they continue to immerse themselves in Romanian life, with exciting plans including recording their second album and potentially buying a home. This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about life abroad, cultural exchange, or the profound power of self-discovery.

Embark on a captivating intellectual journey with author Brian Cranley as he unveils his groundbreaking book, "The Call of Wonder." In this profound episode, Brian shares the fascinating story behind his work, which brilliantly bridges the perceived chasm between science and faith.Brian, with a unique background spanning biomedical engineering and five years in seminary studying philosophy and theology, reveals how these seemingly disparate worlds spectacularly collided. His "aha moment" (01:03), sparked by a Fermilab video on the Big Bang (05:26), revealed an astonishing parallel between modern physics' description of the early universe (unified mass, energy, and forces) and ancient philosophical concepts like divine simplicity – describing God as perfectly indivisible and unified."The Call of Wonder" invites listeners to explore this "God of reason" (16:10), a centuries-old conversation from Plato to Aquinas, providing philosophical arguments for God's existence that modern education often overlooks. Brian explains how classical wisdom helps us understand immaterial concepts like truth, beauty, and goodness, laying a foundation for deeper meaning.Dive into the "Three Miracles of Science" – the universe, life, and the human mind (21:16). Brian poses critical questions: How did matter and energy emerge from nothing? How did living cells arise from non-living matter? And what truly explains the vast chasm of human consciousness compared to other animals? He suggests that these aren't just scientific puzzles, but profound instances where the supernatural touches the natural world.Discover why "wonder" is not just an emotion but a "call" (12:15) – an innate human drive to seek understanding that unifies philosophy, theology, and science. Brian discusses how nurturing this sense of wonder can serve as a spiritual practice (43:01), offering a powerful antidote to modern cynicism and burnout, providing perspective and mental peace in our daily lives (40:57). He also shares valuable insights on how parents can foster this wonder in their children (47:35), encouraging a balanced view of science and faith.Whether you're a staunch scientist, a person of faith, or simply seeking deeper answers, this conversation promises to challenge your perspectives and reignite your own call to wonder. Brian wrote this book for those who feel science has made faith obsolete, offering a compelling narrative that celebrates compatibility rather than conflict (38:06).

In this conversation, Joe shares his migration journey from the UK to a small village in Switzerland, discussing the challenges and triumphs of adapting to a new life. He reflects on the impact of COVID-19 on his family, the cultural integration process, and the language barriers he faces. Joe also highlights the beauty of the Swiss countryside and the importance of balancing work and family life as an expat. He expresses nostalgia for British pub culture and the high cost of childcare in Switzerland, ultimately finding a sense of home in his new environment. In this engaging conversation, Paul and Joe explore the cultural nuances of living in Switzerland, touching on language barriers, regional differences, and the unexpected divisions within the country. They share personal experiences about family life, the cost of living, and the challenges of adapting to Swiss customs, including the peculiarities of Sunday closures. The discussion also delves into the joys of exploring hidden gems in Switzerland and the nostalgia of home, reflecting on the complexities of living abroad and the importance of understanding oneself in the process.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Cultural Shock01:55 Migration Journey: From the UK to Switzerland04:44 Life in a Rural Swiss Village08:07 Navigating the Challenges of Relocation10:52 Language Barriers and Integration13:48 Cultural Differences and Community Dynamics16:54 Childcare and Family Life in Switzerland20:05 Reflections on Swiss Life and Nostalgia22:49 The Cost of Living and Economic Migration25:53 Food Culture and Culinary Adaptation29:03 Conclusion: Balancing Life as an Expat34:33 Culinary Experiences in Germany and Switzerland37:04 Exploring Nature Walks in Switzerland41:02 Feeling at Home in Switzerland44:33 Cultural Differences and Missing Home46:46 Navigating the Legal Landscape in Switzerland48:53 House Buying Experience in Switzerland51:10 Unexpected Aspects of Swiss Culture54:46 Language Barriers and Regional Differences58:31 Family Adventures in Amusement Parks01:01:06 Hidden Gems in Switzerland01:04:36 Skiing and Outdoor Adventures01:08:17 Cost of Living in Switzerland vs Germany01:10:37 Cultural Differences in Child Safety01:16:02 Rapid Fire Questions and Fun Comparisons01:28:42 Reflections on Home and Nostalgia01:34:45 OUTRO

Dive into this inspiring conversation with Richie Billing, who left behind a legal career to embrace his passion for fantasy writing. Discover the bold decisions, struggles, and creative breakthroughs behind his journey from courtrooms to crafting gritty, character-driven worlds. Richie and Paul explore how personal backgrounds shape storytelling, the power of hope, and why representation and authenticity matter in modern fantasy. If you love tales of risk, resilience, and the magic of everyday people, this episode is for youYou can find Richie Billing’s latest writing, stories, and podcasts on his Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/cw/RichieBilling. He’s also got a website: richiebilling.com, where you’ll discover his guides, resources for writers, and everything about his fantasy work—plus, he’s easy to spot with a quick Google search too. Whether you want to read his novels, listen to interviews, or join his creative community, those are the best places to connect and keep up with Richie’s journey.00:00 Highlights & Intro00:31 Influences02:34 The Role of Fantasy in Life05:49 Character Development and Realism08:48 The Impact of Family Background11:46 Writing Style and Genre Preferences14:46 The Magic of Storytelling18:09 Building a Fantasy World21:03 Exploring Good vs Evil23:00 Politics and Writing27:05 Character Development in Together We Rise33:09 The Role of Music in Storytelling38:06 Personal Connections in Writing41:02 The Journey of Self-Publishing45:57 Podcasting and Creative Community56:11 The Joy of Mentoring Writers01:00:19 Wearing Many Hats: The Multifaceted Life of a Writer01:01:45 Nature as Inspiration for Writing01:02:58 The Writing Process: Daily Routines and Midnight Sessions01:04:13 Music and Storytelling: The Soundtrack of Creativity01:05:44 The Power of Fantasy in Storytelling01:07:21 Rapid Fire Round: Insights and Favorites01:18:49 Life-Changing Books and Future Aspirations01:23:07 OUTRO

Join us for a heartfelt conversation with Paul Hughes as he opens up about the challenges and transformations of expat life. Discover what it means to be a “permanent stranger” navigating identity, belonging, and the search for home in foreign lands. This episode explores culture shock, personal growth, and the realities behind the romanticized notion of moving abroad.Connect with Paul Hughes:https://paulhughespodcasting.carrd.coSubscribe for more wanderlust stories and global insights.Chapters00:00 Highlights + Intro01:05 From Swindon to Amsterdam03:41 Cultural Adjustments in Amsterdam06:41 Life in Germany: Frankfurt to Wiesbaden09:44 The Challenges of Being an Expat in Germany12:44 Navigating Language Barriers15:45 Food, Drink, and Local Traditions18:29 Exploring German Cities: A Mixed Experience21:39 Sports and Community Integration24:39 Reflections on Cultural Differences27:51 The Impact of Brexit on Expat Life49:55 Life in Germany: Cycling and Culture56:43 Driving in Germany: The Autobahn Experience01:02:55 Cultural Integration: Feeling at Home in Germany01:10:59 Changing Perspectives: The Impact of Living Abroad01:13:06 Advice for Expats: Navigating Life in Germany01:41:26 Outro

Discover how software engineer Tim O'Hearn made $500K using Instagram growth hacks and bots in this eye-opening episode. Tim (https://timohearn.beehiiv.com/subscribe) reveals the secret world of social media automation, fake followers, and Instagram algorithm manipulation. If you're curious about how some accounts grow overnight and want a behind-the-scenes look at growth hacking's dark side, this episode is a must-listen. Perfect for marketers, entrepreneurs, and anyone fascinated by social media's real mechanics.Tune in for insider stories, ethical dilemmas, and a candid look at Instagram’s hidden growth tactics.!!!Giveaway!!!How often have you seen Instagram accounts explode overnight and thought, "OMG, how did they grow so fast?!" Now it’s your turn to share! Listen to the episode and tell us your wildest "OMG, how did they grow so fast?" story — whether it’s your own or someone you know.Also, take a guess: How many fake Instagram engagements did Tim O’Hearn automate? Drop your story and guess in the comments or reply to our social post.One lucky winner will get Framed: A Villain's Perspective on Social Media, Don’t forget to follow us and share it to a friend who loves Instagram mysteries.

What happens when a spontaneous job offer on Facebook sends an American from D.C. to Berlin’s booming startup scene? In this episode, Hank Smith shares the unfiltered story of his decade-long adventure in Germany, a journey that started with the shock of a rundown airport and the miracle of finding an apartment in three days.Dive into the highs and lows of expat life as Hank recounts his battles with German bureaucracy, the frustrating (and hilarious) attempts to learn the language, and the cultural quirks that define life in Berlin, from its impossible housing market to the mandatory Sunday shutdown.This isn't just a story about moving abroad; it's about building a life, forging deep friendships, and learning to live in the moment. Follow Hank’s journey as he navigates work, culture, and identity, eventually leading him back to the U.S. for a new adventure on wheels. Tune in for a candid conversation about what it truly means to find your place in the world.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Connection Rituals03:34 Hank's Journey from D.C. to Berlin06:32 Family Background and Travel Influences09:19 The Decision to Move to Germany12:32 First Impressions of Berlin15:22 Navigating the Housing Market in Berlin18:24 Cultural Differences and Adaptation21:07 The Challenges of City Registration and Bureaucracy31:13 Navigating Bureaucracy in Germany36:17 First Day at Work: Cultural Adjustments38:24 Building Social Connections in a New Country43:22 The Evolution of Berlin's Food Scene50:38 Language Barriers and Learning German58:45 Unique German Words and Their Meanings01:02:29 The Scripted Nature of Language01:04:25 Misunderstandings and Language Nuances01:06:50 Navigating Social Norms in Germany01:07:53 Cultural Differences: Sunday Closures01:13:10 The Complexity of Moving Back01:15:27 The Loop Back: Reflections on Change01:21:23 Contrasting Cultures: Germany vs. America01:27:53 Finding Humanity Amidst Chaos01:35:31 Navigating Bureaucracy: A Personal Journey01:39:50 Cultural Reflections: America vs. Germany01:46:55 Transformation Through Experience: The Impact of Living Abroad01:49:20 Redefining Home: A Search for Belonging01:52:20 Rapid Fire: Fun Insights and Cultural Comparisons02:06:25 Outro

Join me, as I sit down with Christian and Damien, the hilarious duo behind the "Remain Rome Return" podcast, for an episode that's equal parts laughter and life lessons. We dive into their journey from our shared Midwest roots in Nebraska to Damien's big-city adventures in LA, sharing stories of friendship forged in Omaha, culture shocks that hit hard, and why some of us roam while others return home. From debating the merits of Nebraska's Runza burgers and raccoon-watching dinners at the Alpine Inn to obsessing over deep-fried pickles, jalapeño chips, and the sacred art of ranch dressing, we geek out on food, travel mishaps like marathon cancellations and packing fails, and the surprises of podcasting life. I throw in some rapid-fire questions, we bust LA stereotypes, and ponder if anywhere truly feels like "home" after you've wandered. It's a fun, unfiltered chat full of comedic tangents, expat insights, and that signature curiosity you know from my show, guaranteed to leave you smiling (and maybe hungry for sunflower seeds or a gallon of ranch). 🎙️✈️

After 15 years as a practical engineer following his parents’ plan, Jeremie André shares how a devastating pregnancy loss in France ignited a radical shift: learning English in Australia, building an online yoga and consulting business, and embracing the nomad lifestyle across Serbia, Mexico, Thailand and beyond. Discover how grief became the catalyst for freedom, why a simple fear-setting exercise helped him quit his engineering job, and how meditation, community and risk-taking unlocked his path from a tiny village near Perpignan to global adventure. Whether you’re stuck in a 9-to-5, craving more purpose, or curious about digital nomad life, this raw, inspiring story will challenge everything you thought you knew about work, happiness and what truly matters.Chapters:0:00 Introduction01:05 Welcome and Current Location01:31 Growing Up in France03:29 Childhood Reflections07:36 Early Dreams and Aspirations09:16 University and Studies11:49 First Job and Practical Choices16:34 Internship in Australia21:40 First Impressions of Australia27:58 Meeting Future Wife29:33 Long-Distance Relationship32:13 Life as a Young Couple in Paris35:59 Cultural and Personal Differences42:05 Marriage and Family Plans43:41 Pregnancy Challenges and Loss50:02 Hardest Decision and Transformation57:37 Grief and Reconstruction1:00:47 Move to Miami1:06:01 Healing and Inner Shifts1:10:55 Starting Meditation1:13:33 Leaving the 9-5 Job1:20:26 Overcoming Fear of Failure1:22:33 Family Reactions1:29:34 Misconceptions About Quitting 9-51:33:23 Breaking Free from Societal Expectations1:37:25 Living Life Fully1:41:03 Daily Life as a Nomad1:46:01 Favorite Places and Future Plans1:48:47 Coaching and Consulting Journey1:53:41 Advice for Change Seekers1:55:49 Education System Reflections2:02:12 Freedom and Letting Go2:04:08 Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts

Join host Paul Puscas for a thought-provoking conversation with Emily Pabst, founder of Remake The Rules. Emily shares her journey from government data analyst to coach and consultant, exploring how modern technology and an overload of choices shape the way we live, make decisions, and find meaning. The discussion dives into tech’s role in our daily lives, the challenge of choice inflation, and practical ways individuals can reclaim agency in a world of digital nudges and algorithmic pressure.You’ll hear personal stories on independence, street smarts, growing up amidst changing rules, and the power of reframing—not just in business, but in how we navigate relationships, family, and society. Emily brings expert insight for anyone feeling overwhelmed by today’s information landscape, stressing that tools and apps are just that: tools, not your life.Feeling stuck or want to live more intentionally?Emily Pabst works directly with individuals, leadership teams, and small businesses to help them rethink how to make decisions—big and small—in noisy, novelty-driven times.Connect with Emily:Website: remaketherules.comSocials: @remaketherules on most platformsDiscover more about Emily, her mission, and get support on your own decision-making journey at Remake The Rules.Listen now and start remaking your own rules for life with insights you won’t find anywhere else.Chapters00:00 Highlights and Intro01:30 Meet Emily Pabst: Background and Upbringing05:54 Growing Up in Missouri: A Unique Perspective09:45 Navigating Childhood: Independence and Community12:18 The Impact of Technology on Childhood16:23 Parenting Challenges in a Changing World20:11 The Role of Technology in Modern Parenting23:07 Art, Curiosity, and Challenging Perspectives26:24 Flexibility in Thought and Understanding Others28:10 The Influence of Environment on Development29:52 Transitioning to Adulthood: Education and Career Choices30:20 Emily's Journey: From Missouri to Colorado30:59 Public Service and Career Path32:08 Understanding Redistricting in the U.S.34:02 The Dynamics of U.S. Elections37:41 The Role of Data in Governance38:21 Rulemaking and Rule Breaking40:35 The Challenges of Government Institutions42:04 Power Dynamics in Governance45:16 Data Analysis and Decision Making49:14 The Need for Meaningful Data52:33 Optimization Fatigue in Modern Society53:09 Remake The Rules: A New Approach01:00:02 The Impact of Technology on Relationships01:04:50 Navigating Information Overload01:09:22 Client Transformation Stories01:11:11 Empowering Business Owners in the Digital Age01:16:26 Re-centering Purpose in Decision Making01:20:43 Navigating Technology and Information Overload01:25:04 The Complexity of Choice in the Information Age01:30:33 The Role of AI in Decision Making01:34:10 Living Well in the Information Age01:45:00 OUTRO

In this conversation, Christian shares his journey from Costa Rica to Germany and eventually to Japan. He discusses the cultural shocks he faced, the challenges of adapting to new environments, and his experiences with education and career changes. Christian reflects on the food culture in Japan, the kindness of its people, and the difficulties of navigating language barriers. He also talks about his decision to pursue a digital nomad lifestyle and the unique challenges that come with it. In this conversation, Christian shares his experiences living in Japan, discussing the challenges of language barriers, cultural connections through food, and the unique aspects of Japanese society such as perfectionism and work culture. He reflects on the differences in holiday celebrations, the search for belonging, and offers advice for future expats. The discussion also touches on humorous misunderstandings, the joys of exploring Tokyo on foot, and the cultural discoveries he made during his time there.Chapters00:00 Highlights & Intro01:32 Introduction and background04:12 Life in Costa Rica07:13 Cultural Shock in Germany10:17 University Experience and Career Path13:12 Transition to Software Engineering16:16 The Move to Japan19:16 Digital Nomad Visa Experience22:14 First Impressions of Japan25:15 Living Arrangements and Cost of Living28:19 Cultural Adaptation and Socializing31:04 Food Culture in Japan34:22 Healthcare Experience in Japan37:13 Work-Life Balance and Remote Work40:14 Final Thoughts on Living in Japan58:10 Navigating Language Barriers in Japan59:59 Building Connections Through Food01:02:01 Cultural Surprises: Garbage Rules and Perceptions01:06:09 The Pursuit of Perfection in Japanese Culture01:12:35 Cultural Differences: Employment and Social Stability01:17:27 Celebrating New Year's: A Contrast of Cultures01:19:25 Christmas in Japan: A Unique Celebration01:22:06 Homesickness and Belonging: A Personal Journey01:23:42 Advice for Future Expats: Moving to Japan01:27:17 Funny Misunderstandings: Lost in Translation01:30:40 Public Transport: A Walkable Experience01:32:31 Finding Home: A Sense of Belonging01:37:59 Cultural Discoveries: Music and Art in Japan

Pastor, professor, and sci-fi lover Robert Wallace joins Paul for a deeply human conversation about faith, doubt, and the beauty of imperfection. From the raw honesty of Psalm 88 to what Star Trek teaches us about hope, Robert shares how spirituality can remain real, relevant, and compassionate. They explore religion beyond dogma, prayer without perfection, and how it's okay to show up angry, broken, or unsure and still be heard.🎙 Topics include:– Why Psalm 88 is the most direct prayer in the Bible– How faith and doubt coexist– Building unity in politically divided communities– Sci-fi’s surprising role in spiritual insight– The danger of perfectionism in faith and lifeThis episode is not just for believers, it’s for seekers, skeptics, and anyone navigating life’s deeper questions.

Sergiu left Romania with no plan — just a hunger for adventure. He landed in South Africa expecting excitement and found a life full of contrasts: danger, kindness, loss, and love. From visa chaos to raising kids under constant vigilance, Sergiu shares the raw reality behind the romantic idea of moving abroad. A story about courage, adaptation, and what it really means to call a place home.

Pamela Topjian left an abusive marriage, a stable career, and nearly everything she owned—at 50 years old. In this raw and powerful episode, she shares how she boarded a bus to California with nothing but a suitcase and a last shred of hope. We talk about childhood trauma, surviving emotional abuse, rebuilding identity, the power of therapy, and what it means to find peace later in life. Pamela's story is a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to begin again.

In this heartfelt conclusion, Perrine opens up about how Germany became her most transformational chapter. From struggling through lockdown and language barriers to finding love and meaning, this story is a powerful reminder of how life abroad can change us—completely.Chapters00:00 Highlights & Intro00:42 Moving to Canada02:39 Cultural Differences: Language and Weather05:47 Work Experience in Canada08:27 Traveling Within Canada11:39 Social Dynamics and Friendships14:37 Conclusion: Reflections on Canada28:50 Navigating Tough Decisions: Leaving Canada31:14 The Journey to Germany: A New Adventure35:54 Finding Home: The Apartment Hunt in Munich42:03 Building Community: Expat Life in Munich44:07 Cultural Differences: Munich vs. Marseille53:12 Understanding German Society: Rules and Regulations57:20 Love and Relocation: Moving to Stuttgart01:03:17 Transformative Experiences Across Countries01:07:44 Country Recommendations for Different Ages01:11:39 Social Media Growth and Personal Branding01:13:57 Christmas Traditions and Markets in Germany01:15:54 Culinary Favorites: Poutine and German Treats01:19:43 Cultural Reflections on Safety and Community01:25:15 The Journey of Expat Life01:27:40 Cultural Recommendations: Books, Movies, and Music01:34:35 Defining Home as an Expat

What if the pyramids are older than we think? Or quantum chips are syncing across parallel universes?Paul speaks with Greg Dizzia and D.R. Foresi, co-founders of Cosmos University, about rewriting human history, the Book of Enoch, ancient floods, quantum computing, and AI's role in shaping the future. A wild ride from lost civilizations to cutting-edge tech.Perfect for fans of Graham Hancock, ancient mysteries, AI breakthroughs, and deep thought.Chapters00:00 Origins and Historical Context03:01 Graham Hancock's Influence on Alternative History05:49 The Age of Civilizations and Human Existence08:55 The Book of Enoch and Cataclysmic Events11:45 Challenging Established Archaeological Narratives14:40 The Evolution of Scientific Understanding17:54 The Role of Data in Scientific Inquiry21:07 The Interplay of Myth and History24:01 The Future of Archaeological Research32:36 The Enigmatic Figure of Noah36:45 Genetic Insights and Ancient Civilizations39:56 The Rise of Civilizations and Population Dynamics41:29 The Future of AI and Its Implications50:52 Quantum Computing and Interdimensional Theories01:01:27 The Future of Medicine and Genetic Engineering01:02:24 Universal Income and Societal Changes01:03:09 Secrets of Power and Knowledge in History01:06:45 The Fleeting Nature of Attention01:07:58 Commercialization of Information01:09:50 Media Consolidation and Its Effects01:12:36 The Power of Propaganda01:17:07 Polarization and Misinformation01:20:41 The Role of Politics in Public Health01:23:04 Healthcare Systems: A Comparative Analysis01:36:56 The Complexities of Healthcare Systems01:39:46 The Role of Preventative Medicine01:42:57 Emerging Technologies in Health Monitoring01:49:49 The Theranos Case: Innovation vs. Integrity01:56:57 The Future of Education and Research

Rachel Lloyd grew up in rural Florida, never dreaming she'd one day study international law—in Russian—in the middle of a global crisis.In this episode, she shares her bold leap from small-town life to the heart of Moscow, how she adapted to a new culture and language, and what it was like living abroad during the war in Ukraine.We talk about language barriers, protests, Russian friendships, finding confidence abroad, and how it all changed her idea of “home.”➡️ Follow Whereabouts Tales for more real expat stories.📬 Send us your thoughts or share your story: whereaboutstales@gmail.com