Transplants - Conversations With Women Thriving Abroad

Immigration has been part of Soldana’s life since forever. It’s part of her roots: her grandmother left the Philippines to pursue a better life in the United States, a decision that deeply shaped Soldana’s story. Like many people growing up in the U.S., she was raised as a multicultural kid, surrounded by both Filipino and American influences.Maybe that’s why Soldana has been drawn to life abroad from a very young age. She took part in student exchange programs in Spain and France, more specifically, in Paris, a place she immediately fell in love with. Years later, she would accept a transfer offer from her corporate job to move to the French capital.The rest is history. As you can imagine, she didn’t plan to meet the love of her life there, nor did she expect to eventually leave her corporate career to pursue a creative path - something that had always been part of her life, even if she had become disconnected from it for a while.Today, Soldana works as a singer, songwriter, content creator, and writer. In this episode, we talk about her childhood, her move to Paris, how she met her husband and knew he was the one, and how she decided to quit her job to follow her passion, and how Paris played a key role in making that possible.Connect with Soldana:Instagram @iamsoldanaYoutube https://www.youtube.com/@iamsoldanaTikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@iamsoldana/Spotify https://open.spotify.com/artist/3e6xJICUqmZZGc6GF73XBT?si=futWTJ-TSjaKKLEQpTUTLg__________________________________________Why the name “Transplants”?I've always loved the meaning this word can have. To be a transplant is to carry one life while learning to live another._______________________________________Connect with Transplants:Follow on IG https://www.instagram.com/transplants.podSubstack/newsletter - https://wearetransplants.substack.com/Laura's IG https://www.instagram.com/laura_peruchiFollow on TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@wearetransplants

Sandra Romero, a Spanish teacher and founder of the Queer Spanish School, shares her journey from Spain to Mexico. Inspired by her mother's stories, she turned teaching into a passport for adventure while living in diverse countries. She pivoted to online classes during the pandemic, creating a safe space for queer women, non-binary, and trans students. Sandra discusses the complexities of identity, cultural belonging, and the importance of teaching Mexican Spanish while advocating for greater awareness among Europeans in Latin America.

In this engaging conversation, Monique Kreis, an Australian transplant thriving in Tuscany, shares her adventurous journey of spontaneity and love for food. She recounts her move from Tasmania to Italy, driven by her passion for culinary experiences. Listeners will be enchanted by her rom-com-like meeting with Adriano and insights on adapting to a new culture. Monique highlights the importance of independence in relationships, embracing life's quirks, and the beauty of asking for opportunities. Her reflections inspire a blend of Australian and Italian identities.

Ambika Mathur, an American who moved to Italy for love, shares her journey of relocating to Naples and tackling skepticism about her decision. She emphasizes the thrill of embracing the unknown and the risks involved in relationship-driven moves. The podcast features insights from 15 inspiring immigrant women, touching on themes of reinvention, financial independence, and the importance of maintaining individuality in relationships. Their collective stories aim to motivate listeners for a transformative 2026.

In this engaging conversation, Marion Müller, a Swiss content creator, shares her inspiring journey from Zurich to Singapore. She discusses how a temporary move became a permanent adventure after a breakup. Marion reveals the challenges of starting a new life solo, including job hunting and cultural differences. She highlights what makes Singapore special, from its vibrant community to affordable food. With a focus on personal growth and creativity, she encourages listeners to embrace change and choose action over regret.

Join Olga Kudrick, a Lithuanian expat and creator of The Messy Mom Chronicles, as she shares her incredible journey from Lithuania to London and then to the U.S. She reflects on her challenging early days in London, including housing instability and cultural shocks. Olga discusses the heart-wrenching decision to relocate again, the emotional toll of leaving her home, and how therapy helped her navigate these transitions. Hear her insights on building community for mothers and the joys and challenges of raising a mixed-heritage daughter.

Kaila Krayewski, a Canadian-born writer, has spent years embracing life abroad, from teaching English in Japan to finding paradise on Thailand's Koh Phangan. She candidly shares her journey of building a life while grappling with loss, entrepreneurial challenges, and relationship strains. Kaila discusses the harsh realities that come with island life and reflects on her decision to leave Thailand for a fresh start in Valencia. She also offers heartfelt insights on coping with grief and maintaining connections while living away from home.

Celia Alves, a former math teacher from Portugal, shares her inspiring journey of immigrating to Canada and reinventing herself as an Excel specialist. She discusses the emotional and bureaucratic challenges related to immigration, including their sudden crisis and decision against returning to Portugal. Celia describes her intense learning experience with Excel, how it became a therapeutic escape, and her rise as a community leader, culminating in recognition as a Microsoft MVP. Her story is a testament to resilience and the pursuit of passion.

Karen Bussen, an American creative entrepreneur and former wedding planner, shares her journey from New York to Paris. She reveals how a love for France led her to practice conversational French through dating, ultimately meeting her husband on Bumble. Karen discusses the challenges of integrating into Parisian life, emphasizes the importance of honesty in relationships, and offers advice for those contemplating a move to France. With insights on building a new identity and the emotional complexities of relocating, her story inspires boldness and connection.

Fernanda Santos, a Brazilian author and former New York Times staff writer, opens up about her journey of love, loss, and reinvention in the U.S. She shares how a chance encounter at a job fair reshaped her destiny. After the tragic loss of her husband, Fernanda discusses navigating grief, raising her daughter, and finding her voice authentically. She reflects on the importance of embracing one's identity, shares insights on resilience, and reveals how she found love again while honoring her past.