

Dating Beyond Borders
Marina Iakovleva
Welcome to the Dating Beyond Borders Podcast!
I’m Marina, the creator behind the Dating Beyond Borders YouTube channel, where I’ve spent the past 10 years exploring how culture shapes love and connection. Now, I’m bringing that same passion to the podcast world!
Each week, I sit down with guests from around the globe to dive into the ways culture influences relationships, identity, and the way we connect. From dating norms to cross-cultural misunderstandings, no topic is off-limits.
Let’s break down barriers. One culture at a time.
I’m Marina, the creator behind the Dating Beyond Borders YouTube channel, where I’ve spent the past 10 years exploring how culture shapes love and connection. Now, I’m bringing that same passion to the podcast world!
Each week, I sit down with guests from around the globe to dive into the ways culture influences relationships, identity, and the way we connect. From dating norms to cross-cultural misunderstandings, no topic is off-limits.
Let’s break down barriers. One culture at a time.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Feb 12, 2025 • 1h 12min
Ep. 59 - From LA to Paris: Why I Moved Abroad to Find Love (Feat. Ursulline)
This week, I sit down with Ursulline, who reached a breaking point with the LA dating scene. Frustrated and out of options, she made a life-changing decision: to leave it all behind and try her luck abroad. We dive into what led her to move, how dating in LA compares to Paris, and the realities of dating in your late 30s. Plus, we explore the big question—how do you know when it’s time to walk away and start fresh in a new country?Say hi to Ursulline: https://www.instagram.com/ursullinetv/Each week I will interview guests from all around the world on the topics of culture, connection and of course, dating. The goal is to go as deep as possible and to really understand where we all come from and how much culture influences our life.Want to join the mailing list? https://www.dating-beyond-borders.comSay hi on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/datingbeyondbordersDating Beyond Borders channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/datingbeyondborders

Feb 4, 2025 • 53min
Ep. 58 -Korean-Brazilian Couple Reveals Their Biggest Culture Shocks (Feat. Ana e Wan)
I interview Ana, a Brazilian, and Wan, a Korean, who had a long-distance relationship for years before getting married and settling in Minas, Brazil.
We dive into the biggest cultural differences between Korean and Brazilian mindsets—as well as in dating. Ana shares why she struggles to relate to certain aspects of Brazilian culture, and we explore the unexpected challenges and nuances of being in an international relationship.
If you're curious about cross-cultural relationships, dating customs in Brazil and Korea, or navigating cultural differences in love, this episode is for you!
Say hi to Ana and Wan: https://www.instagram.com/_wana218/
Each week I will interview guests from all around the world on the topics of culture, connection and of course, dating. The goal is to go as deep as possible and to really understand where we all come from and how much culture influences our life.
Podcast Production by Podders: https://Podders.io
🎙️ Want to be a guest on the Podcast? https://forms.gle/J7CjyY1s7jKkLDEa9
Support the Podcast (money will be used for operational budget/equipment) https://tr.ee/0SzhdgntdC
Make your Podcast with Streamyard and get $10 in credit: https://shorturl.at/knzA2
Youtube Channel: @DatingBeyondBorders
/ datingbeyondborders
/ datingbeyondborders

Jan 28, 2025 • 1h 12min
Ep. 57 - Iranian Woman on Culture Shocks and Dating in Germany
Curious about dating an Iranian woman and how it compares to dating in other cultures? In this post, we dive into Iranian culture, explore the dating scene, and compare it to Germany, where Melica, our guest, currently resides.
Discover the unique aspects of Iranian hospitality, the nuances of communication, and the cultural dynamics that shape relationships. Whether you're interested in cross-cultural dating or just learning about Iranian traditions, this Podcast is for you.
Say hi to Melica: https://www.instagram.com/melicasha/
Each week I will interview guests from all around the world on the topics of culture, connection and of course, dating. The goal is to go as deep as possible and to really understand where we all come from and how much culture influences our life.
Podcast Production by Podders: https://Podders.io🎙️
Want to be a guest on the Podcast? https://forms.gle/J7CjyY1s7jKkLDEa9
Support the Podcast (money will be used for operational budget/equipment)
https://tr.ee/0SzhdgntdCMake your Podcast with Streamyard and get $10 in credit: https://shorturl.at/knzA2
Youtube Channel: @DatingBeyondBorders /
Tune in on other Podcast Platforms
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/dating-beyond-borders/id1718400067

Jan 21, 2025 • 52min
Ep. 56 - Why German Men Flock to Latin America for Love (Feat. SoyChrisRo)
This week, I sit down with Chris, a German content creator, to dive into his unique experiences dating in Latin America. We discuss the key differences between Latinas and German women, debunk common German stereotypes, and uncover the reasons why so many German men are drawn to Latin America in search of love.
If you're curious about cross-cultural dating, the allure of Latin American romance, or what makes German men venture abroad for relationships, this episode is for you.
Say hi to Chris: https://www.instagram.com/soychrisro/
Each week I will interview guests from all around the world on the topics of culture, connection and of course, dating. The goal is to go as deep as possible and to really understand where we all come from and how much culture influences our life.
Podcast Production by Podders: https://Podders.io
🎙️ Want to be a guest on the Podcast? https://forms.gle/J7CjyY1s7jKkLDEa9
Support the Podcast (money will be used for operational budget/equipment) https://tr.ee/0SzhdgntdC
Make your Podcast with Streamyard and get $10 in credit: https://shorturl.at/knzA2
Youtube Channel: @DatingBeyondBorders
/ datingbeyondborders
/ datingbeyondborders
Tune in on other Podcast Platforms 🎧
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4aoPPtJxxcP974vv0Ly95g
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/dating-beyond-borders/id1718400067

Jan 14, 2025 • 1h 6min
Ep. 55 - Truth About Finnish Relationships: Self Sufficiency, Silence and Sisu (Feat. Miikka Martinkainen)
This week, I talk to Miikka, a Finnish content creator known for his videos on Finnish culture. We dive into everything from saunas to small talk, with a special focus on Finnish relationships. Miikka shares insights on gender equality, the lack of PDAs, and what he wouldn't tolerate on a date. Tune in for a candid look at dating in Finland and the cultural nuances that shape relationships.
Say hi to Miikka: https://www.instagram.com/miikka_martikainen/
Each week I will interview guests from all around the world on the topics of culture, connection and of course, dating. The goal is to go as deep as possible and to really understand where we all come from and how much culture influences our life.
Want to join the mailing list? https://www.dating-beyond-borders.com
Say hi on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/datingbeyondborders
Dating Beyond Borders channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/datingbeyondborders

Jan 7, 2025 • 58min
Ep. 54 - Stop Making These Cross-Cultural Communication Mistakes! (Feat. TEDx Speaker Pellegrino Riccardi)
Join TEDx speaker and cultural coach Pellegrino Riccardi, originally from the UK and now living in Norway, as he unpacks the fascinating world of cross-cultural communication. He explores the differences in expressiveness between Scandinavians and Italians, and how humor plays a crucial role in bridging gaps. Pellegrino sheds light on the cultural nuances around complaining, and shares personal anecdotes that highlight the importance of curiosity in navigating diverse societal norms. His insights offer practical tips for enhancing connections across cultures.

Dec 10, 2024 • 9min
The Truth About Dating Turkish Men: Love Bombing, Cheating and Family Ties
What are Turkish men like in relationships? This Podcast I talk to Anastasia, a Belarusian born woman who lives in Istanbul with her Turkish husband about all the truth in dating Turkish men. From their strong family ties, to courtship, to the negative side that comes with passion.
Get in touch with Anastasia: / belish.travel
Each week I will interview guests from all around the world on the topics of culture, connection and of course, dating. The goal is to go as deep as possible and to really understand where we all come from and how much culture influences our life.
🎙️ Want to be a guest on the Podcast? https://forms.gle/J7CjyY1s7jKkLDEa9
Support the Podcast (money will be used for operational budget/equipment) https://tr.ee/0SzhdgntdC
Make your Podcast with Streamyard and get $10 in credit: https://shorturl.at/knzA2
Youtube Channel: @DatingBeyondBorders
/ datingbeyondborders
/ datingbeyondborders
Editing by Ivan Popovic: https://shorturl.at/rOsC5
Instagram: @i__popi__

Dec 4, 2024 • 1h
Ep. 53 - The Truth About Living (& Dating) as an American in Brazil (Feat. Tim Explica)
This week, I chat with Tim, a content creator from the US who’s been diving deep into Brazilian culture, lifestyle, and the dating scene. We talk about his experience as a foreigner living in Brazil, what it’s really like to date there, and how he ended up meeting his now-Brazilian wife.
Tim shares his story, along with some tips for anyone curious about dating in Brazil or navigating cross-cultural relationships. From the dos and don’ts to what makes Brazilian dating so unique, this episode has you covered.
Say hi to Tim: https://www.instagram.com/timexplica/
Tim's channel: https://www.youtube.com/ @TimExplica
Each week I will interview guests from all around the world on the topics of culture, connection and of course, dating. The goal is to go as deep as possible and to really understand where we all come from and how much culture influences our life.
Podcast Production by Podders: https://Podders.io
🎙️ Want to be a guest on the Podcast? https://forms.gle/J7CjyY1s7jKkLDEa9
Support the Podcast (money will be used for operational budget/equipment) https://tr.ee/0SzhdgntdC
Make your Podcast with Streamyard and get $10 in credit: https://shorturl.at/knzA2
Youtube Channel: @DatingBeyondBorders
/ datingbeyondborders
/ datingbeyondborders

Nov 27, 2024 • 58min
Ep. 52 - Dating in Switzerland: First Dates & Modern Matchmaking (Feat. Elena Sachs)
In this episode, I sit down with Elena Sachs, the founder of Match Maison, a leading matchmaking agency in Switzerland, to dive into the unique aspects of Swiss dating culture. We explore what to expect when dating a Swiss man or woman, why your Swiss partner might wait before introducing you to their friends, and the often-overestimated qualities in attraction. Plus, we discuss whether matchmaking is becoming the go-to alternative to dating apps.
Say hi to Elena: https://www.instagram.com/elenasachsofficial/
Check out Match Maison: https://matchmaison.com/
This conversation is a must-watch for anyone curious about Swiss romance and the evolving world of relationships.
Each week I will interview guests from all around the world on the topics of culture, connection and of course, dating. The goal is to go as deep as possible and to really understand where we all come from and how much culture influences our life.
Podcast Production by Podders: https://Podders.io
🎙️ Want to be a guest on the Podcast? https://forms.gle/J7CjyY1s7jKkLDEa9
Support the Podcast (money will be used for operational budget/equipment) https://tr.ee/0SzhdgntdC
Make your Podcast with Streamyard and get $10 in credit: https://shorturl.at/knzA2
Youtube Channel: @DatingBeyondBorders
/ datingbeyondborders
/ datingbeyondborders

Nov 19, 2024 • 1h 9min
Ep. 51 - Truth About Dating as an Iranian-American in Los Angeles (Feat. Nazanin Nour)
This week, I chat with Nazanin Nour, an Iranian-American actress, comedian, and podcast host. We discuss growing up Iranian in the U.S., dating in Los Angeles, and her insights into Iranian-American culture. Tune in for an engaging conversation on identity, relationships, and life in L.A.
Say hi to Nazanin: https://www.instagram.com/iamnazaninnour/
Each week I will interview guests from all around the world on the topics of culture, connection and of course, dating. The goal is to go as deep as possible and to really understand where we all come from and how much culture influences our life.
🎙️ Want to be a guest on the Podcast? https://forms.gle/J7CjyY1s7jKkLDEa9
Support the Podcast (money will be used for operational budget/equipment) https://tr.ee/0SzhdgntdC
Make your Podcast with Streamyard and get $10 in credit: https://shorturl.at/knzA2
Youtube Channel: @DatingBeyondBorders
/ datingbeyondborders
/ datingbeyondborders