Episode 12- What Migration Teaches You About Leadership, Identity & Work Culture; India, France, Australia

What does it really mean to build a career across countries?In this episode of In Between Life, I share my journey as a pastry chef working in India, France, and Australia—and the deeper lessons behind it.This is not just about hospitality.It’s about how migration reshapes the way you think about work, leadership, business, and identity.From high-pressure kitchens in India to the precision-driven craft culture of France, and the structured, multicultural workplaces of Australia—each system taught me something different about what it takes to grow, adapt, and survive as a migrant professional.But beyond the surface, this episode also explores the psychology of migration.Why do so many skilled migrants feel like they are starting from zero again?Why does identity feel unstable when you move countries?And how do different cultures shape the way we lead, work, and build careers?Drawing from research in cross-cultural psychology, leadership theory, and vocational identity, this episode connects real-life experience with deeper insights into:• Migrant life in Australia• Hospitality careers across countries• Leadership styles in India vs France vs Australia• Cultural differences in workplaces• Identity shifts and starting over as a skilled migrant• Business models and labour systems across economies• The emotional reality of rebuilding your career abroadIf you’re an immigrant, international student, chef, or professional navigating life in Australia—this episode will resonate.And if you’ve ever felt like you’re constantly adapting, proving yourself, or rebuilding your identity in a new country…this conversation is for you.🎙️ In Between Life is a podcast about migration, identity, hospitality life, and everything we go through while becoming.📢 Follow the podcast to support the journey💬 Share this episode with someone building a life abroad📊 Vote in the poll and be part of the conversation Academic References - United Nations (2020) — International Migration Report→ Over 281 million people live outside their country of birth (3.6% of global population)John W. Berry (1997) — Acculturation and Adaptation→ Introduces the concept of acculturative stress in migrants adjusting to new culturesGeert Hofstede — Cultural Dimensions Theory→ Explains power distance, hierarchy, and cultural differences in workplacesHenri Tajfel & John Turner (1979) — Social Identity Theory→ Identity shaped by social groups, belonging, and environmentColleen Ward, Bochner & Furnham (2001) — The Psychology of Culture Shock→ Cultural adjustment, adaptation, and migrant experience in new environmentsVocational Identity Research (VET Studies, 2020–2025)→ Craft-based identity and occupational identity formation in skilled professionsAustralian Bureau of Statistics→ Over 30% of Australia’s population is overseas-born, highlighting a multicultural workforce