Wannabe Americana

🌍✈️ Reverse culture shock is SO real — everyone hypes the idea of “going back home” after living abroad, but no one talks about how jarring it really is. You think you’re just slipping back into your old life, but news flash: you’ve changed, home has changed, and suddenly you’re the foreigner in your own country.In this episode of Wannabe Americana, I dive into the messy, funny, and sometimes traumatizing truth about reverse culture shock. From little things like food, fashion, and social norms, to deeper stuff like identity, friendships, and belonging — we’re unpacking it all.🎧 Whether you’re a returnee, immigrant, third culture kid, or just curious about what it feels like to “go back” when nothing feels the same… this one’s for you.💬 Drop your own reverse culture shock stories in the comments — I want to hear them!👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell so you don’t miss future episodes of Wannabe Americana.Keep up with us :IG : Wannabe AmericanaTikTok: Wannabe AmericanaYoutube: Wannabe Americana

Ever catch yourself missing that abroad life—despite knowing you struggled just to survive it? In Season 2, Episode 1 of Wannabe Americana, we dig into why returnees often romanticize the places they once called home—everlasting nostalgia blurring the reality.Join me as we unpack:The bittersweet fog of “reverse culture shock” – why home isn’t what we remember (or imagined)Why the “abroad fantasy” persists, even when you moved back knowing it wasn’t all glamorousThe tension between missing the energy, freedom, and novelty of abroad—and needing to slow down, be present, and build where you areReal talk on how to move forward: small steps, real acceptance, & letting go of comparing your life to someone else’s memoriesStories from Reddit that hit home:“Honestly the grass is always greener. I recently moved back… now all I want to do is go back… the feelings of FOMO will pass eventually.” “This is the curse of being an expat. You never fully fit into your new place, but you also no longer fully fit into where you came from.”Subscribe, like, and hit the bell to follow the journey of unlearning heavier-than-life expectations—and finally existing where you are, one step at a time. Drop your own returnee story in the comments—I want to hear your "I miss abroad, but…" moments.Keywords: romanticizing abroad, reverse culture shock, returnee struggles, missing abroad, diaspora nostalgia, moving home, expat FOMO, Wannabe Americana S2

What happens when someone you love dies—but you're 5,000 miles away? In this vulnerable episode of Wannabe Americana, Biani sits down with her family friend, Omaina, to talk about the gut-wrenching experience of grieving from abroad.Together, they unpack the emotional complexity of losing Omaina’s father just before moving to Canada, and her grandmother while already living overseas. From missing funerals to feeling detached from family milestones, they reflect on what it means to mourn without proximity, without cultural rituals, and without the physical presence of loved ones.This episode is for the immigrants, the third-culture kids, the international students, the outsiders—anyone who has felt the pain of not being able to be there when it mattered most. It's for those who have grown up oceans away from the people they love, and those who are learning to carry grief across borders and time zones.If you've ever felt guilty for not crying hard enough, or for carrying on while the world back home stands still, this conversation is for you.🎧 Tune in for a raw, deeply human conversation about distance, grief, memory, and healing when home is not just far—it's unreachable.

Happy Men's Mental Health Awareness Month.I don't think we speak on this enough so i thought I speak on it here with a very in-tune man. In this episode we speak on all things therapy, mental health, ideals men grew up with or what they defined as a man from their parents

First off congrats to all the graduates out there!!!This is probably the biggest step you may have taken you starting and finishing something this huge and it's like okay now what!! What's the next chapter and the truth is at least 60% of people don't know 30% of people think they are just find a job to distract themselves from their real potential and the other 10% are lucky enough to know their path and go straight into it but the journey isn't always so smooth and there's a lot of up and downs before you finally get to that point and this episode is to let you know you're not alone and we're all still trying to figure it out to.

resilience, medicine, minority, expectations, mental health, first-generation, success, personal presence, hard work, faith, vulnerability, femininity, representation, healthcare, victim mindset, self-worth, confidence, inner peace, fear of failure, personal growthSummaryIn this episode, Bianim Isibor and Ada discuss the journey of pursuing a medical career as a minority woman. They explore themes of resilience, the pressures of expectations, the importance of mental health, and the challenges faced by first-generation medical students. Ada shares her experiences of overcoming obstacles, the significance of taking up space in competitive environments, and the role of faith and intentionality in achieving success. The conversation emphasizes the need for transparency about failures and the importance of building connections in navigating the medical field. In this engaging conversation, Ada and Bianim explore themes of vulnerability, representation, and self-worth, particularly in the context of minorities in healthcare. They discuss the importance of embracing one's femininity, the need for better representation in medical fields, and the detrimental effects of a victim mindset. The dialogue emphasizes the significance of understanding one's worth, aspiring for more, and building confidence while maintaining inner peace. They encourage listeners to overcome fears of failure and to recognize that success is achievable through determination and self-belief.TakeawaysAda has always known she wanted to pursue medicine since childhood.Success in medicine often comes with pressures and expectations, especially for minorities.Transparency about failures is crucial in the medical journey.Mental health is vital; Ada emphasizes the importance of coping with emotions.Being a woman of African descent in medicine presents unique challenges.First-generation students often navigate their paths without a clear blueprint.Taking up space means being unapologetically oneself in competitive environments.Intentional work is necessary for achieving goals; faith plays a role in success.Coping with failure is essential; it's important to process emotions.Building connections and networking is crucial for first-generation students. Embracing vulnerability can be a source of strength.Representation in healthcare is crucial for effective patient care.Resilience does not equate to being strong all the time.Cultural understanding is vital in medical practice.Overcoming the victim mindset is essential for personal growth.Your worth is determined by your efforts and achievements.Aspiring for more is necessary for long-term success.Confidence should come from within, not from external validation.Failure is a stepping stone to success.You deserve to be where you are because of your hard work.

Keywordsfriendship, green flags, red flags, communication, support, trust, connection, twenties, personal growth, relationshipsSummaryIn this conversation, Bianim Isibor explores the essential elements of true friendship, emphasizing the importance of honesty, accountability, and genuine support. The discussion delves into the green flags that indicate a healthy friendship, such as open communication and the ability to embrace differences. Bianim also highlights the red flags to watch out for, including jealousy and inconsistency. The conversation provides insights on navigating friendships in your twenties, building trust, and avoiding desperation in forming connections. Ultimately, it underscores the significance of surrounding oneself with quality friends who contribute positively to one's life.TakeawaysHonesty and accountability are crucial for lasting friendships.Friendship should be a space for growth and support.Genuine support without jealousy strengthens bonds.Effective communication prevents misunderstandings and stress.Embracing differences enriches friendships.Red flags include jealousy, ghosting, and inconsistency.Prioritizing friendships over romantic relationships is vital.Desperation can lead to unhealthy friendships.Finding friends involves engaging in activities you enjoy.Quality friendships enhance overall well-being.

moving out, family dynamics, financial independence, cultural expectations, personal growth, relationships, boundaries, guilt, friendships, mental healthSummaryIn this episode, Bianim Isibor and Awa discuss the journey of moving out from home, the emotional and financial challenges that come with it, and the impact on family dynamics. Awa shares her personal experiences, including feelings of guilt, the importance of financial independence, and the necessity of setting boundaries with family. They also explore cultural expectations surrounding moving out and relationships, emphasizing the importance of personal growth and self-care.TakeawaysMoving out can be the best decision for personal growth.Coping with guilt is a common challenge when leaving family behind.Financial independence requires discipline and planning.Friendship dynamics can change during significant life transitions.Setting boundaries is essential for mental health and well-being.Cultural expectations can create pressure when deciding to move out.Understanding parental expectations can help in navigating family dynamics.Personal growth often comes from stepping outside of comfort zones.It's important to prioritize self-care and mental health.Relationships can improve with distance and personal space.

At the start of any career journey, it’s easy to believe that hard work alone is enough. But navigating the professional world—especially as a Nigerian in certain spaces—requires more than just skill. It requires mentorship. This episode dives into how finding the right mentors can transform careers, open doors to unexpected opportunities, and boost confidence in ways no one talks about.But not everyone has access to the same support systems. Gatekeeping culture within professional spaces often makes it harder for people—especially those from marginalized communities—to find opportunities. This is especially true on platforms like LinkedIn, where who you know can be just as important as what you know.This episode is a wake-up call: mentorship is essential, and finding the right people can change everything. Whether you’re seeking career guidance, trying to grow professionally, or simply looking for advice from someone who’s been in your shoes, mentorship is the key. And beyond that, once you’ve climbed a few steps up, it’s just as important to turn back and help others do the same.

creativity, content creation, balancing education, financial struggles, international creators, originality, Nigerian creators, global audience, engineering to content, creative journey, content creation, self-discovery, imposter syndrome, creative pressure, balancing work and passion, personal growth, only child experiences, overcoming challenges, creative industry, journey to successSummaryIn this engaging conversation, Bianim Isibor and Prof TV explore the multifaceted journey of creativity, particularly in the context of content creation. They discuss the challenges faced by creators, the balance between education and passion, and the financial struggles that often accompany a creative career. Prof TV shares his personal experiences transitioning from engineering to content creation, the impact of living abroad on his creativity, and the importance of originality in a saturated market. The dialogue emphasizes the value of creativity in different cultural contexts and offers advice for aspiring creators navigating their own paths. In this engaging conversation, the speakers delve into the complexities of content creation, the pressures of being an only child, and the journey of self-discovery. They discuss the challenges faced in the creative industry, including imposter syndrome and the balancing act between traditional jobs and creative pursuits. The dialogue emphasizes the importance of perseverance, the impact of personal experiences, and the necessity of finding one's path in a competitive landscape.TakeawaysCreativity is essential for personal fulfillment and growth.Balancing education and passion can be challenging but necessary.Financial struggles are common among content creators.Originality is key to standing out in the creative space.Living abroad can influence creative perspectives and opportunities.Networking and connections are crucial in the content creation industry.It's important to find a unique voice and style in content creation.Creators should not compromise their originality for broader appeal.The value of creativity varies significantly across different countries.Persistence and adaptability are vital for success in content creation. Content creation often involves unexpected challenges and setbacks.Being an only child can create unique pressures and expectations.Self-discovery is a continuous journey that shapes our creative paths.Imposter syndrome is a common struggle among creators, but it can be overcome.Balancing a nine-to-five job with creative pursuits requires careful planning and dedication.The journey to success is not linear; it involves ups and downs.Finding inspiration in familiar places can rejuvenate creativity.It's important to lean on faith and trust in the process.The goal of making money remains constant, regardless of the path taken.Creativity flourishes when one is willing to take risks and invest in their passions.

au pair, cultural exchange, South Africa, America, identity, TikTok, returning home, consumerism, cultural connection, personal growthSummaryIn this episode, Bianim Isibor and Nothile discuss the journey of moving from South Africa to America as an au pair. They explore the cultural exchange experience, the challenges of returning home, and the excitement of experiencing American culture. Nothile shares her reflections on identity, consumerism, and the importance of community while living abroad. The conversation highlights personal growth, the impact of cultural differences, and the significance of maintaining connections to one's roots.TakeawaysNothile is proud of her achievements on TikTok.The au pair experience is a unique cultural exchange.Returning home after two years brings mixed emotions.Experiencing American culture is exciting and overwhelming.Consumerism in America is vastly different from South Africa.Identity can shift when living abroad, especially with accents.Maintaining connections to South African culture is important.Community support is crucial for South Africans abroad.Materialism can influence one's perspective on life.Personal growth is a significant outcome of the au pair journey.

moving abroad, cultural differences, personal growth, living abroad, returning home, life challenges, new experiences, self-discovery, family connections, embracing change Summary In this episode of 'Wannabe Americana', Bianim Isibor reflects on the complexities of moving abroad and returning home. She discusses the challenges of adapting to life in a new country, the cultural shifts that occur, and the personal growth that comes from these experiences. Bianim shares her insights on the differences between living and visiting abroad, the realities of life back home, and the importance of creating new memories while embracing change. Takeaways Moving abroad changes your mindset and perspective. There is a significant difference between living abroad and visiting. Cultural shifts can lead to personal growth and new opportunities. Returning home can feel unfamiliar after living abroad. Navigating life back home comes with its own challenges. Building connections and networking is easier in familiar environments. Creating new memories is essential for adapting to change. It's important to embrace the new chapter of life after returning home. Being around family can provide comfort and happiness. It's okay to feel different after experiencing life abroad.

Summary In this episode, the host shares personal experiences and insights on dating as an international student. The conversation explores the complexities of navigating relationships in a new cultural environment, the challenges of peer pressure, and the importance of self-discovery in dating. The host emphasizes the need for boundaries, understanding cultural differences, and the purpose of dating as a means to find compatibility rather than just romantic connections. Takeaways This episode is a safe space for sharing personal experiences. Dating as an international student comes with unique challenges. Cultural dynamics play a significant role in relationships. It's important to set boundaries in dating. Clinginess can be a major turn-off in relationships. Peer pressure can influence dating decisions. Understanding cultural differences is crucial for relationship success. The purpose of dating is to discover compatibility. Self-discovery is an essential part of the dating process. It's okay to prioritize personal well-being over dating. Keywords international students, dating advice, cultural differences, college relationships, personal experiences, dating challenges, peer pressure, self-discovery, relationship dynamics, dating tips

Summary In this episode, the host shares her personal experiences with college party life, contrasting the dynamics of black and white parties. She discusses the cultural differences, safety concerns, and the evolution of her party habits over time. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding one's limits, being aware of surroundings, and the social dynamics that play out in these environments. Ultimately, the host encourages listeners to enjoy their college experiences while being mindful of safety and personal boundaries. Keywords college parties, black parties, white parties, party culture, college life, safety tips, drinking limits, personal experiences, social dynamics, cultural differences Takeaways College party life often differs significantly between cultures. Black parties can be chaotic and sometimes unsafe. White parties tend to be more carefree and fun. It's important to know your drinking limits. Safety should always be a priority at parties. Peer pressure can influence drinking habits. Having a sober friend is crucial for safety. Cultural dynamics affect party experiences. Enjoying parties doesn't always require drinking. College experiences can be fun if approached wisely.

Summary In this episode of the Wannabe Americana podcast, host Bianim Isibor and guest Serena Allison explore the complexities of friendship, dating, and cultural identity as they navigate life in a new city. They discuss their experiences with dating apps, the challenges of making friends in a new environment, and the cultural differences that shape their interactions. The conversation highlights the importance of self-acceptance, the evolution of friendships, and the significance of taking up space in social settings. Keywords friendship, dating, cultural identity, social dynamics, personal growth, podcast, Nigerian culture, American culture, navigating life, self-discovery Takeaways Navigating friendships in a new city can be challenging. Cultural identity plays a significant role in social interactions. Dating experiences can vary greatly based on cultural backgrounds. It's important to take up space and be yourself in social settings. Friendships can evolve and sometimes end as people grow apart. Self-acceptance is crucial in navigating life changes. Making friends requires effort and openness to new experiences. Long-distance friendships can be fulfilling and meaningful. Social dynamics can be influenced by cultural differences. It's okay to prioritize your own well-being in friendships.

Keywords Lagos, Uber, friendship, long-distance, moving abroad, emotional impact, safety, celebration, home visits, advice Summary In this conversation, Seun and Bianim Isibor discuss their experiences living in Lagos, the challenges of maintaining friendships across distances, and the emotional impact of friends moving abroad. They share personal anecdotes about safety concerns while using Uber, the overwhelming nature of home visits, and the importance of checking in on friends, whether they are back home or abroad. The conversation highlights the dynamics of friendship, the adjustments required when friends move away, and the need for understanding and grace in maintaining these relationships. Takeaways Navigating life in Lagos has its challenges, especially with rising Uber prices. Safety concerns in transportation are a common topic among friends. Moving abroad can create a sense of distance but also new experiences. Maintaining friendships requires effort, especially across time zones. Celebrating friends' achievements from afar can strengthen bonds. Home visits can be overwhelming due to multiple social obligations. Friendship dynamics can change when friends move away, leading to fears of drifting apart. Emotional impacts of friends moving can affect one's sense of stability. Checking in on friends is crucial for maintaining connections. Understanding and grace are essential in long-distance friendships.

Keywords American Dream, job search, networking, certifications, resilience, job market, visa processes, emotional toll, career insights, market saturation Summary In this episode of the Wannabe Americana podcast, host Bianim Isibor shares her personal journey of navigating the complexities of finding a job in the United States as an international student. She discusses the misconceptions surrounding the American Dream, the challenges faced during the job search, the importance of networking, and the emotional toll of rejections. Bianim emphasizes the need for persistence, understanding job-related terminology, and the significance of certifications. She also reflects on the lessons learned throughout her journey and the reality of job expectations in a saturated market. Takeaways The American Dream often doesn't align with reality. Job searching can be a long and challenging process. Networking is essential for finding job opportunities. Certifications can enhance your employability. Persistence is key in the face of rejection. Understanding job terminology is crucial for success. The emotional toll of job searching is significant. Finding purpose beyond traditional employment is important. Lessons learned from failures can guide future success. The job market is competitive and requires strategic approaches.

Books: Rich AF by Vivian Tu: https://amzn.to/3ZeO8z8 The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel: https://amzn.to/3YVGGaN Keywords international students, finance, financial independence, budgeting, credit, savings, investing, money management, personal finance, financial literacy Summary In this episode, Biani Isibor shares her personal journey navigating finances as an international student in the U.S. She discusses the challenges of adjusting to a new currency, the importance of financial independence, and the fulfillment she found in her work experiences. Vianney emphasizes the significance of building credit, saving, and investing wisely, while also recommending resources and books for financial literacy. Takeaways Adjusting to local currency is crucial for survival. Financial independence brings a sense of liberation. Finding a fulfilling job can enhance your overall experience. Building credit is essential for future financial opportunities. Passive income is a valuable financial strategy. Researching financial options can lead to better decisions. Consider the benefits of high-yield savings accounts. Investing small amounts can lead to significant growth over time. Be mindful of spending habits to avoid debt. Reading finance books can enhance your understanding of money.

Keywords American culture, small talk, oversharing, social interactions, dorm life, classroom etiquette, cultural differences, personal space, communication skills, understanding others Summary In this episode of the Wannabe Americana podcast, host Biani Isibor explores various aspects of American culture, particularly focusing on social interactions, small talk, and the nuances of communication. She shares her experiences with oversharing, morning conversations, and the importance of personal space. Biani also discusses the challenges of navigating eye contact, unexpected social encounters, and the etiquette of dorm life. Throughout the episode, she emphasizes the need for understanding and grace in interactions, especially when cultural differences come into play. Takeaways Small talk is a vital skill in American culture. Oversharing can be overwhelming but is often well-intentioned. Morning interactions should be approached with caution. Eye contact can lead to unwanted conversations. Unexpected social interactions can be awkward. Confrontation often lacks follow-through in social dynamics. Dorm life can present unique challenges regarding hygiene. Consideration for others is crucial in shared spaces. Classroom etiquette is important for a conducive learning environment. Understanding cultural differences can enhance social interactions.

Summary In this episode of 'Wannabe Americana', host Bianim Isibor discusses the multifaceted purpose of studying abroad, emphasizing that it's not just about academics but also about personal development, networking, and social experiences. She compares the educational systems of Nigeria and America, highlighting the supportive nature of American colleges. Bianim shares practical advice on course selection, balancing academics with social life, and strategies for success as an international student, including the importance of discipline and overcoming intimidation in the classroom. In this conversation, Bianim Isibor shares her personal journey through academic challenges, emphasizing the importance of asking questions, seeking help, and building a support network. She discusses strategies for academic success, including effective study habits and maintaining a high GPA. Bianim also highlights the significance of balancing academics with social experiences and networking opportunities in the American educational system. Her candid reflections on personal growth and the importance of mental health resonate throughout the discussion. Keywords study abroad, American education, Nigerian education, college life, networking, academic success, international students, course selection, social life, personal development, academic challenges, success strategies, college life, mental health, networking, GPA, American experience, personal growth, study tips, life balance Takeaways The purpose of going to the US is all around development. School is for networking, making friends, and partying. The main purpose of school is not just academics. American colleges want to see you succeed. Taking five to six classes equals zero life. You need to join clubs and meet people. Rate my professor is like movie reviews. You have to have a very disciplined schedule. Finding that balance is key. Feeling intimidated in classes is common but can be overcome. Asking questions is crucial for understanding. Don't let fear of judgment stop you from seeking help. Building a support network can lead to academic success. It's important to reflect on failures and learn from them. Maintaining a high GPA requires effort in the first half of the semester. Networking and joining clubs can open doors for future opportunities. Balance between academics and social life is essential. Experiencing new things is part of the college journey. Moderation is key when trying new experiences. Discipline and practicality are vital for success.