Expat Podcast the Netherlands

In this episode of Expat Podcast the Netherlands, I talk with Hilly and Cristian Cassetta. Cristian is Italian and Hilly comes from South Africa. They met in London, built a life together in Italy, and raised their children in what many people would describe as paradise: the beautiful, protected surroundings of Tuscany. Life was good, safe and full of beauty. And yet, something started to shift. As a family, they felt the need for more challenge, more possibilities and more space to grow.So, they made a bold decision: to leave paradise behind and move to the Netherlands.In our conversation, we talk about what it means to choose growth over comfort, how an international move affects family life, and why the Netherlands became the place where they wanted to build their next chapter. Cristian and Hilly share openly what this move has meant for them as parents, for their daughters, and for their family as a whole.We explore the reasons behind their choice, the impact of Dutch life on their family dynamics, and what they have gained by stepping out of a familiar and beautiful environment into something new.If you are curious about family life abroad, the courage it takes to start again, and the unexpected gifts of leaving your comfort zone, this conversation is for you.Christian writes a blog about their experiences. You can read it here: https://www.casspeople ettas-reboot.xyz/en/===More information about our courses, coaching and support you can find on www.yourmovertothenetherlands.nl  

In this episode of Expat Podacst the Netherlands, I talk with Gary Sullivan, an American executive in the pharmaceutical industry who has lived and worked with his family across Austria, Switzerland, and now the Netherlands. From that international journey, he shares thoughtful insights on Dutch work culture, leadership, and family life abroad.We talk about the nuances of leading a Dutch team, the importance of being heard in the workplace, and why true integration goes deeper than simply feeling comfortable. Gary also reflects on raising children internationally and what helps expats build a real sense of connection in a new country. If you’re interested in leadership, cultural differences, and settling into life in the Netherlands, this conversation is for you.==If you enjoyed this podcast, please share it with someone who might appreciate it too. You can also subscribe to this channel to stay updated on new episodes.For more information, visit www.yourmovetothenetherlands.nl.And if you have your own story to share as an expat in the Netherlands, I’d love to hear from you. You can contact me at [email protected]

In this episode of Expat podcast the Netherlands, I talk with Elsa Tranquillo — an Italian professional who’s been living in the Netherlands for several years and knows the job-search reality here firsthand. Through her own experiences applying, interviewing, and navigating the Dutch market, Elsa shares practical, valuable advice on what really makes a difference when you’re trying to land a role.We dive into the nuances behind Dutch hiring culture, how to position your story in a way that resonates locally, and the small shifts that can dramatically improve your chances — from networking with intention to making your CV and LinkedIn feel “Dutch” without losing who you are. She also shares her own experience with self-discovery that came along with living and working in new country. If you’re looking for grounded, actionable tips to move your job search forward and how to develop yourself in the meantime, Elsa delivers.==At Your Move to the Netherlands, we support expats in building a happier, more effective and more confident life in the Netherlands.Whether you’re preparing to move, already settling in, or trying to find your way in Dutch work culture, we offer a range of courses, coaching and practical support. We help you navigate daily life, understand the Dutch way of working, find a job, develop your career, and integrate in a way that feels natural and empowering.www.yourmovetothenetherlands.nlcontact@yourmovetothenetherlands.nl

In this episode, Michel Daenen speaks with McKenna Mahacek. Her Dutch story beautifully combines creativity, courage, and finding your place in a new country.Some of you may remember a very special moment during the Michel Daenen's book launch of Expatfactor. While the audience watched a dancer move on screen, many didn’t realize they were witnessing a live performance. McKenna was dancing in a green screen setup, being filmed in real time — and only later did the audience discover that the dancer they had been watching on screen was performing live, in the main hall. In this podcast, McKenna shares what that unique experience was like for her, and how she experienced being part of such an unexpected and magical moment.Beyond that, McKenna talks about her journey from the USA to the Netherlands four years ago, how she transformed her passion for dance from a hobby into a profession, and how dancing has helped her build connections with people from all over the world — especially in Amsterdam. Through dance, community, and creativity, she has truly found her place in a new country More info on McKenna you find on https://www.mckennamahacek.com  McKenna's insta is https://www.instagram.com/fledglingdancersamsterdam/ This is a 2 minute video of the book launch of Expatfactor, in which you see a short clip of McKenna dancing, together with guitar player Jan Snellen: https://youtu.be/M_w-QN2_uMQ === Information on Your Move to the Netherlands you can find on https://yourmovetothenetherlands.nl  More background about the podcast host Michel Daenen you find here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michel-daenen/ 

If you’ve listened before, you know that our episodes are normally in English. But every now and then, there’s a conversation that deserves to be shared in Dutch — just as it was spoken. Today’s episode is one of those moments.And I really want to encourage you to stay with us, even if Dutch isn’t your strongest language yet. Think of it as a gentle listening exercise: you’ll hear natural Dutch, pick up new words and rhythms, and get a feel for how people truly speak in everyday life in the Netherlands. This episode may help you to build your confidence.In this conversation, I speak with Joyce van der Heide, a Dutch woman who spent many years living abroad as the partner of her husband who was posted around the world for a multinational company. She has a wealth of experience as an expat partner, and she shares her insights, stories, and lessons learned with honesty and clarity.I hope you enjoy this episode — in Dutch — and that it will inspire you on your own journey in the Netherlands.If you’re new here I want to let you know that at Your Move to the Netherlands, we support expats in building a happier, more effective and more confident life in the Netherlands.Whether you’re preparing to move, already settling in, or trying to find your way in Dutch work culture, we offer a range of courses, coaching and practical support. We help you navigate daily life, understand the Dutch way of working, and integrate in a way that feels natural and empowering.And because we work with a wide network of specialists, organisations and partners, we can guide you with many different questions — from career and culture to practical challenges and personal development.If you’d like to learn more, you’re very welcome to visit our website or connect with us.I hope today’s episode inspires you, and I look forward to having you with us next time, in English.www.yourmovetothenetherlands.nlmichel.daenen@yourmovetothenetherlands.nl==Information about Joyce: Joyce van der Heidewww.joyce2journey.nl==Music I Use: Bensound.com/royalty-free-musicLicense code: 7JJ25CVO3GLNSDPDArtist: : Benjamin Tissot

In this episode of Expat Podcast the Netherlands, Michel Daenen has a conversation with Carolina and Alvaro Olivares. The couple lived together with their three daughters in Peru.  When their oldest announced her ambition to study in the Netherlands, they decided to stay together and move with the whole family. They arrived about a half year ago and all family members enjoy Dutch life very much.  During the interview, Carolina and Alvaro discuss the challenges they encountered while preparing for their move. They also share valuable insights on how to create a fulfilling life in the Netherlands. ===  Are you curious about our courses, coaching and support before or after your move to the Netherlands? Then have a look at ⁠www.yourmovetothenetherlands.nl⁠ or contact us at [email protected] 

In this episode of Expat Podcast the Netherlands, Michel Daenen has a conversation with Lara Ferreira. Lara is originally from Brazil. She lived in the UK and Sweden before she chose to relocate to the Netherlands as she loves the Dutch way of life.  She feels at home in Amsterdam and after a career in the corporate world as marketing expert, she took the courage to start her own company Mindful Experiences and now helps expats to refind balance in their lives.  In this podcast she shares her experience as an expat and gives valuable tips for international people who would like to start their own company in the Netherlands.   More information: www.instagram.com/mindfulexperiences_  == Are you curious about available support before or after your move to the Netherlands? Then have a look at ⁠www.yourmovetothenetherlands.nl⁠ or contact us at [email protected] 

In this episode of Expat Podcast the Netherlands, Michel Daenen has a conversation with Soyinka Majumder. Soyinka is a big data specialist. The Dutch company Thuisbezorgd.nl connected with him through LinkedIn and offered him a job. This opportunity led him and his wife Rimi to relocate from Delhi to Amsterdam. With an open-minded approach, they successfully adapted to life in the Netherlands. They purchased a lovely home and even became parents. Their son became their Dutch language teacher. In this interview, Soyinka first discusses his specialized work in big data. He then shares valuable advice on how to be happy and successful while living abroad.  --- Are you curious about available support before or after your move to the Netherlands? Then have a look at ⁠www.yourmovetothenetherlands.nl⁠ or contact us at [email protected] 

In this episode of Expat Podcast the Netherlands, Michel Daenen has a conversation with Siddharth Gupta. Siddharth had a successful career in India when his wife got a job offer in the Netherlands. When that offer turned into a permanent contract, they decided that Siddharth would leave it all behind and move to the Netherlands as well, so they could live together. A journey with ups and downs started for him when things did not work out as planned. In this interview Siddharth shares openly his experiences as being an expat spouse in the Netherlands and gives tips for how to move forward in difficult times.    Are you curious about available support during or after your move to the Netherlands? Then have a look at ⁠www.yourmovetothenetherlands.nl⁠ or contact us at [email protected] 

In this episode of Expat Podcast the Netherlands, Michel Daenen has a conversation with Christopher McCabe. Chris is an American attorney who has been wondering about moving to the Netherlands for quite some time. To make sure relocating is a good decision he made a preview trip to Amsterdam. This interview was recorded during that trip when Chris had just been in the country for 10 days. He speaks detailed about his first impressions of the Dutch capital and all the things he had been experiencing since he arrived at the airport. Finally, he shares his decision about his future steps.  Are you curious about available support during or after your move to the Netherlands? Then have a look at ⁠www.yourmovetothenetherlands.nl⁠ or contact us at [email protected] 

In this episode of Expat Podcast the Netherlands, Michel Daenen has a conversation with Ida Fischer, who lives in the Netherlands with her Dutch husband and 3 children.  Ida grew up in the Rocky Mountains of Montana in the USA. After deciding to settle in the Netherlands with her family, she felt out of place and struggled to adapt. Unable to relocate, she embarked on a personal journey that not only deepened her understanding of the Dutch landscape and culture but also led to significant self-discovery. In this interview, she shares her experiences and insights from her journey. == Would you like to know more about Ida’s journey? Follow her on Instagram via @dutchmountainproject Are you curious about available support for expats in the field of living and working in the Netherlands? Then have a look at www.yourmovetothenetherlands.nl⁠ or contact us at [email protected]    And please subscribe to this chanel so you will be notified when there are new episodes of Expat Podcast the Netherlands. 

In this episode of Expat Podcast the Netherlands, Michel Daenen has a conversation with Erika Kataveli, who lives in the Netherlands since May 2023. Erika is from Greece and moved to the Netherlands to work in sales for the Rotterdam School of Management, Erasmus University. Her first year in the Netherlands has been a challenge. Not because she did not like the country, contrary. But because she had to take care of so many things and had some major setbacks. She used it as fuel for personal growth. Also, she learned much about what it takes to have a good start as an expat in the Netherlands. In this interview she shares her story and gives valuable advice for newcomers to the country.  == Are you curious about available support during your move to the Netherlands? Then have a look at ⁠www.yourmovetothenetherlands.nl⁠ or contact us at [email protected] 

In this episode of Expat Podcast the Netherlands, Michel Daenen has a conversation with Jayita Datta, who resides in the Netherlands with her husband and their 14-year-old son. Originally from Agartala, in Northeast India, Jayita moved to the Netherlands in 2013 to join her husband who found a job after his Dutch MBA. Throughout the interview, she provides a comprehensive glimpse into their daily life as a family in the Netherlands. Additionally, Jayita shares her story of how she grew her own business as an entrepreneur specializing in event management. She also shares important tips for people who will move to the Netherlands. Would like to find out more about Jayita’s business, then visit https://www.facebook.com/share/6REtizmnaZn3fGm1/ Are you curious about available support during your move to the Netherlands? Then have a look at www.yourmovetothenetherlands.nl or contact us at [email protected]

In this episode of Expat Podcast The Netherlands a conversation with Anastasia Nefed. Anastasia is a Ukrainian data-analyst and moved to Germany about 4 years ago. Two years ago, she received a job offer in The Netherlands and decided to make a move again. She enjoys an active life in Amsterdam, although she misses her friends and family in Ukraine. In this interview many topics and tips are covered about establishing a life in Netherlands. Also, Anastasia reflects on differences between Dutch life and living in her home country.      -- Are you planning to relocate to The Netherlands? Would you like to prepare well to have a soft landing? Then please visit our website to see how you can benefit from our online programs. Simply have a look at yourmovetothenetherlands.nl. And please remember to follow this podcast channel so know when there is a new episode for you. Have a great rest of the day and 'tot ziens'.  

In this episode of Expat Podcast The Netherlands a conversation with Vimal Dhaduk and Parul Ajudiya. They live in Almere, about 20 minutes east of Amsterdam. Originally, they are from India an both work in IT. They were expats on Cyprus in the Mediterranean Sea. Since about two years they live in The Netherlands. In this podcast they talk about their experience as expats, which even includes buying a house in The Netherlands. Are you planning to relocate to The Netherlands? Would you like to prepare well to have a soft landing? Then please visit our website to see how you can benefit from our online programs. Simply have a look at yourmovetothenetherlands.nl. And please remember to follow this podcast channel so know when there is a new episode for you. Have a great rest of the day and 'tot ziens'.  

In this episode of Expat Podcast The Netherlands Michel Daenen speaks with Uschi Straumann. Uschi lives in Almere, about 20 minutes east of Amsterdam. Originally, she is from Switzerland, but was born in Sweden. She works in The Netherlands and internationally in the field of spiritual healing. In this podcast she talks about her experience with living in The Netherlands and highlights some pros and cons. Also, she shares practical advice for newcomers. More info on Uschi Straumann:  ⁠https://cosmicinspirations.com/⁠ ⁠[email protected]⁠ == Are you planning to relocate to The Netherlands? Would you like to prepare well to have a soft landing? Then please visit our website to see how you can benefit from our online programs. Simply have a look at yourmovetothenetherlands.nl. And please remember to follow this podcast channel so know when there is a new episode for you. Have a great rest of the day and tot ziens.   == Would you like to share your story?  Are you an expat living in The Netherlands? Would you like to share your story in an episode of Expat Podcast The Netherlands? Then simply send an email to [email protected] and I will get back to you.  Take care.  Michel Daenen

Michal van Belle-Stap is originally from Israel. She met her husband when she studied in Belgium. Short after she moved to The Netherlands where they live ever since. In this podcast she speaks about the pros and cons of living as a multicultural family in The Netherlands. She also talks about the services she provides for expats in the field of housing. If you would like to learn more about Michal or you wish to contact her, this is her website and email address: http://www.homestyleme.nl/ [email protected] == Are you an expat living in The Netherlands? Would you like to share your story in an episode of Expat Podcast The Netherlands? Then simply send an email to [email protected] www.yourmovetothenetherlands.nl 

Claudia Ziegler-Zech is originally from Germany, but lives in The Netherlands for many years. In this podcast she speaks about the first years after her move, her corporate experience and typical Dutch cultural characteristics. She also provides some handy tips for newcomers to The Netherlands. Have fun listening to this energizing episode. If you would like to learn more about Claudia of you wish to contact her, this is her linkedIn address and email: Claudia Ziegler-Zech | LinkedIn - [email protected] Are you an expat living in The Netherlands? Would you like to share your story in an episode of Expat Podcast The Netherlands? Then simply send an email to [email protected]

Caroline Geiser is from the French part in Switzerland, is 24 years old and recently moved to The Netherlands for her internship. This was in the middle of the Covid 19 crisis where also in The Netherlands there were restrictions. In this podcast she talks about her experience and gives valuable advice on how to best get going in a new country, even during challenging situations.

In this episode of Expat Podcast The Netherlands an interview with Sairah Erens and Elyse O'Shaughnessey. Elyse is from the USA, Sairah is Dutch. They both have a passion for theatre. Together they started the Orange Theatre Company. In this podcast they tell you all about it. About Orange Theatre Company “Orange Theatre Company produces an annual season of compelling and contemporary English language theatre. Our International theatre community inspires our Dutch and international audience by providing them with regular opportunities to connect in a culturally relevant way. We are Amsterdam’s leading English language theatre company. We’re not just an English language theatre company, but we’re also a melting pot of nationalities. We pride ourselves in our diverse ensemble and viewership. By producing compelling English theatre, we bridge the social and cultural barriers that day to day life creates and connect our Dutch and international audience. OTC’s annual season is (in a Covid-19 free scenario) constructed of multiple productions, giving people a regular schedule to explore their love of English language theatre in Amsterdam. About our next production The Last Five Years: The Last Five Years is an emotionally powerful and intimate musical about two New Yorkers in their twenties who fall in and out of love over the course of five years. Jamie Wellerstein, a rising novelist, and Cathy Hiatt, a struggling actress open their hearts and minds as they tell their side of the relationship, proving there are always two sides to every story. Cathy's story is told in reverse chronological order (beginning at the end of the marriage), and Jamie's told in chronological order (starting just after the couple first meet).” More info? Have a look at http://www.orangetheatrecompany.com/

In this episode of Expat Podcast The Netherlands an interview with Devendra Singh. Devendra is and ICT professional from North India. He has been living in the USA, Singapore and Australia before. In The Netherlands he worked for KLM and Rabobank. Currently he works for ING. He talks about his experiences as an expat. Are you an expat living in The Netherlands? Would you like to share your story in an episode of Expat Podcast The Netherlands? Then simply send an email to [email protected] And I will get back to you. Warm regards, Michel Daenen

In this episode of Expat Podcast The Netherlands an interview with Jolyan Leonard. Jolyan is from the UK. He moved with his family to The Netherlands 3 years ago. In this podcast he speaks about his motives to move, his work in Virtual Reality and a special building project he is involved in. Because of the Corona situation we did this interview online. Hopefully you'll agree that Jolyan's story more than makes up for the poor sound quality. 

In this episode of Expat Podcast The Netherlands an interview with Francisca Burgos. Francisca is originally from Aruba, a tropical island in the Caribbean. Singing and dancing has always been an important part of her life. She recently started JoysingNL, a networking event where international and Dutch people come together to sing, enjoy and connect. In this podcast she tells you about herself and about Joysing. - About JoysingNL Join new residents and born Dutch for an hour to sing different old and new Dutch pop songs. Just because it’s fun! Anyone who wants to meet new people, who wants to learn Dutch and /or wants to sing out loud is welcome. For more information about JoysingNL you can go to https://joysing.nl/en/ 

In this episode of Expat Podcast The Netherlands an interview with Hannah van der Rest. Hannah is Dutch, lives in Amsterdam and is project leader of the Amsterdam Culture Club, an English-speaking community group that brings together culturally minded internationals at exclusive special events in the Amsterdam Area. In this interview she explains how it works and shares tips for trips. I interviewed Hannah together with co-host Dharminder Bihari during the LIVE radio show Easy Fm Expat Radio

You’re listening to the podcast Expat Podcast The Netherlands. My name is Michel Daenen, of Your Move to The Netherlands, a company that supports international people with a smooth landing in the Netherlands. In this episode of Expat Radio an interview with Katerina Kusova (or in short Kate Kusova). Kate is from Moskow, Russia. She met her Dutch boyfriend via Tinder and after travelling back and forth for quite some time she decided to move to The Netherlands to live with him. In this interview she gives valuable tips on how to build a social network and how to find a job in The Netherlands.I interviewed Kate together with co-host Dharminder Bihari during the LIVE radio show Easy Fm Expat Radio. 

Mayte de Vries is program manager Sustainability at the Municipality of Almere, in the Amsterdam Area. In this interview she talks about circular economy, sustainability and the ‘Steiger Festival’ (Jetty Festival) in Almere, where entrepreneurs showcase their contribution to the development of circular economy. She also talks about the efforts of the municipality of Almere to turn itself into a sustainable green city. I interviewed Mayte together with co-host Dharminder Bihari during the LIVE radio show Easy Fm Expat Radio, which took place in the ‘Week of Circular Economy The Netherlands’.

In this episode of Expat Podcast The Netherlands an interview with Edwina Kannemeyer-Snelting and her husband Bert Snelting. Edwina is from South Africa. She came to The Netherlands to live with Bert. In this interviews she talks about her experiences as a ‘love-pat’ establishing a live in Almere, a city 20 km east of Amsterdam. I did this interview with Edwina and Bert together with co-host Dharminder Bihari during the LIVE radio show Easy Fm Expat Radio. We talked about how they met, cultural differences, Dutch ‘inburgering’, her work in The Netherlands and Tips for Trips.

Monica-Adriana Moga is originally from Romania and moved to the USA in 2001 following her husband’s work. She lived in Boston, San Francisco and New York. Then she moved to the UK. Later she came to the Netherlands to do a scholarship program in data analytics at Microsoft in Amsterdam. She first lived in Almere, 20 km east of Amsterdam and later she moved to Rotterdam because of a job opportunity. She is about to leave to the USA again, to Florida, to start a new business in kitchen remodeling, together with a friend of hers. Just before her departure I got to speak with her about her experiences living in The Netherlands.