#14 Living Abroad: Megan’s Journey in Germany

Have you ever made a big move for love - and then had to figure out everything else after? In this episode, I sit down with Megan, an American expat who’s been living in Germany for over a decade. We chat about what it’s really like to start over abroad: navigating career changes, learning a new language, and building friendships that actually feel meaningful.Megan shares the highs and lows of parenting in a new culture, especially during isolating times like COVID, and how she’s raising her son to embrace both his American and German roots. From cultural differences at work to finding joy in the small things, we talk about how your perspective on success, identity, and community shifts when you live abroad - and how resourcefulness and connection make all the difference.If you’ve ever struggled with staying true to yourself while adapting to life abroad, this one’s for you.Tune in to learn the following takeaways:Living and parenting abroad require intentionality—from building community and maintaining cultural identity to navigating career shifts and raising bilingual children.Expat life offers perspective shifts on success, friendships, and parenting, especially when facing cultural differences and isolation.Support systems matter—language skills, professional networks, and meaningful connections are essential for thriving abroad.01:54 - Love and Relocation Decisions06:00 - Navigating Career and Education in Germany09:55 - Cultural Adjustments and Work Environment14:01 - Building Connections and Community17:49 - Transitioning from Munich to Hamburg22:14 - Embracing Parental Leave and Community Building26:00 - Balancing Work and Family Life30:00 - Perspective on Career and Life Choices32:23 - Navigating Cultural Comparisons and Personal Choices34:00 - The Challenges of Parenthood Abroad36:20 - Building Community as an Expat Parent39:16 - Resourcefulness in Overcoming Isolation42:45 - Raising a Bilingual Child in a Multicultural Environment46:47 - Traveling with a Multicultural Perspective51:12 - Finding Community and Connection Abroad55:24 - Maintaining Cultural Identity While Adapting✨ Connect with Mary Martha:→ LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/marymarthakipcak/⁠⁠→ Book a free call: ⁠https://calendly.com/coachwithmm/30min⁠⁠⁠