Summary
In this episode of Expat Insights, host Annegret and guest Julie M. Marx explore the multifaceted experience of expat life in China, particularly focusing on the unique challenges and opportunities faced by expat spouses. They discuss the rapid pace of life in China, the importance of learning Mandarin, and the emotional complexities of living abroad, including feelings of guilt and homesickness. Julie shares her insights on building community, navigating professional restrictions, and the evolving nature of expat life, emphasizing the need for support and connection in a foreign environment.
Takeaways
Life in China moves at lightning speed, impacting expat experiences.
Expat spouses often feel isolated and need strong support networks.
Learning Mandarin opens doors and fosters connections.
Cultural misconceptions about China can hinder expat experiences.
Finding purpose and passion is crucial for expat spouses.
Professional opportunities for expats are often limited by work permits.
Community building is essential for emotional well-being.
Expat guilt and homesickness are common emotional challenges.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Expat Life in China
02:39 Cultural Insights and First Impressions
07:15 Understanding Change and Misconceptions
11:47 The Scale of Life in China
14:45 Language as a Gateway
19:41 Challenges for Expat Spouses
22:11 Navigating Work Restrictions
23:17 Conclusion and Advice for Expat Spouses
23:58 Navigating Business in China
26:56 Challenges and Opportunities for Non-Working Spouses
29:26 Building Community in China
34:04 Emotional Challenges of Expat Life
36:28 Reverse Culture Shock
42:59 The Future of Expat Life in China
45:12 China Expert Spouse: Support for Expats
47:25 Defining Home in an International Life
48:33 Introduction to Expat Insights
50:34 Closing Thoughts and Resources
Podcast Guest
Julie M. Marx
https://chinaexpatspouse.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-m-marx/
Host
Annegret Bertsch
https://www.coaching-because.com
Summary
This conversation explores the complexities of relationships for expats, highlighting the hidden stressors that arise from moving abroad, the impact of career changes, and the importance of communication and support systems. Wiebke Anton, a relationship coach, shares insights on how cultural differences and financial dynamics can complicate relationships, while also emphasizing the need for counseling and the normalization of seeking help. The discussion concludes with hopes for the future of expat couples, focusing on the importance of maintaining healthy relationships amidst the challenges of living abroad.
Takeaways
Expat life can lead to hidden stressors that impact relationships.
Career changes often create imbalances in expat couples.
Financial dynamics can complicate relationship roles abroad.
Cultural differences significantly affect relationship dynamics.
Communication is key to navigating challenges in expat life.
External influences can exacerbate relationship issues for expats.
Counseling should be normalized as a tool for relationship health.
Establishing routines can help couples manage stress.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Wiebke Anton and Her Journey
02:59 The Challenges of Expat Life and Relationships
06:31 Hidden Stressors in Expat Relationships
10:44 The Impact of Career Changes on Relationships
14:54 Coping with Financial Dynamics Abroad
18:53 The Role of External Influences on Expat Couples
23:06 Navigating Intimacy and Social Life Abroad
27:06 The Importance of Communication in Relationships
31:05 Repatriation and Its Challenges
35:10 Strategies for Strengthening Expat Relationships
39:23 The Future of Expat Relationships and Support Systems
55:35 Introduction to Expat Insights
55:56 Closing Thoughts and Resources
Podcast Guest
Wiebke Anton
https://www.help4love.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/wiebke-anton/
Host
Annegret Bertsch
https://www.coaching-because.com
Summary
In this conversation, Annegret and Martyna delve into the complexities of culture shock experienced by expats. They explore the various phases of culture shock, from the initial excitement of the honeymoon phase to the frustrations and doubts that often follow. Martyna shares her personal experiences of living in different countries, highlighting the importance of finding belonging and home in a new environment. They discuss the journey of self-discovery that comes with adapting to a new culture and the challenges of managing expectations from oneself and others. The conversation concludes with practical advice for new expats on how to navigate their experiences and create a sense of belonging.
Takeaways
Culture shock has four distinct phases: honeymoon, frustration, adaptation, and mastery.
The honeymoon phase is characterized by excitement and novelty.
Frustration often arises when the initial excitement fades and challenges become apparent.
Finding belonging in a new country is a significant aspect of the expat experience.
Self-discovery is a crucial part of living abroad and adapting to new cultures.
Expectations from oneself and others can complicate the expat experience.
Building connections through work and hobbies can alleviate feelings of loneliness.
Lowering expectations can help in forming deeper connections with others.
Creating a sense of belonging often requires active participation in the community.
Emotional experiences during culture shock can lead to personal growth.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Martyna
04:08 Understanding Culture Shock
08:12 The Honeymoon Phase of Expat Life
14:48 Navigating Challenges in a New City
17:58 Self-Discovery Through Expat Experiences
22:29 Identity and Authenticity Abroad
24:46 The Concept of Home
28:04 Belonging and Connection
31:48 Navigating Loneliness and Building Relationships
36:00 Expectations and Career Challenges
42:59 Coping with Culture Shock
45:10 Evolving Definitions of Belonging
49:00 Introduction to Expat Insights
49:29 Closing Thoughts and Resources
Podcast Guest
Martyna Brewczyk
https://prosperabroadcoaching.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/martynacoach/
Host
Annegret Bertsch
https://www.coaching-because.com
Living abroad changes you—sometimes in exhilarating ways, other times in deeply challenging ones. I know, because I’ve been there.
I’m Annegret Bertsch, an Erickson Certified Coach, and I created Expat Insights to explore the real experiences of life abroad. In Season One, you’ll hear from experts around the globe as we dive into topics such as:
Navigating culture shock
Raising Third Culture Kids
Keeping relationships strong across borders
Leading effectively abroad
Repatriation—and the big question: what does home even mean now?
This podcast is here to give you practical insights, honest conversations, and the reassurance that you’re not alone.
So, if you’re an expat, a spouse, someone in global mobility, or simply curious about the expat experience—this is for you.
The first episode drops October 1st 2025, with new episodes released every other Wednesday.
Subscribe now and join me for Expat Insights—a space where your story matters.
If you’d like personal support navigating life abroad, connect with me at www.coaching-because.com.