This Expat Life

If you’ve been a listener of the show and heard me talk about working together, perhaps you were thinking: “But I don’t need help with the expat things in my life”. Yes - AND I would still tell you to hire a coach.In this episode I tell you why I believe every expat should work with a coach - well, the expats that are serious about their expat life and view it as an opportunity for reinvention and their personal growth.👉 Ready to hire me? Read about my coaching hire and fill out the form on the website, I’ll reach out to you: https://www.amandamaximecoaching.com/coaching👉 Want a taster of working with me?Get my NEW, free creation: The Roundabout Exit. For expats who have been stuck in decision limbo for more than 6 months and are tired of overthinking. Not a pdf with prompts that are open doors, but three different ways for you to start lifting the fog. Built in the same way that I coach, delivered to your inbox over multiple days.Get it here for free: https://www.amandamaximecoaching.com/roundabout-exitLinks & Resources:📸 Connect on Instagram: @amandamaxime🕵️‍♀️ Connect on LinkedIn📰 Subscribe to my weekly Air Mail👩‍💻 Visit my website

“Make your big decisions more with your intuition” but what if you don’t know what your intuition is saying?! I got this question in different variations in the last weeks so I’m dedicating an episode to it.Because when you are a global citizen moving around, you have a ton of decisions to make, constantly. And if you can rely on a strong intuition, this will help you make better and faster decisions.Links & Resources:📸 Connect on Instagram: @amandamaxime 💌 Share your reflections: [email protected] 🌐 Explore more: amandamaximecoaching.comBeen stuck in expat decision limbo? Get my NEW free journey The Roundabout Exit here: https://www.amandamaximecoaching.com/roundabout-exit

What if you’re increasingly feeling like an outsider with your old friends from back home? This is not an episode where I give you practical tips on how to stay in touch - instead we’re looking at the undertow that might be happening in the dynamic between you and the group. And I give you 3 tips on how to deal with that, coming from my 1:1 coaching of the last few weeks.Liked the tips and implemented them? Let me know! Send me an email ([email protected]) or DM on IG or LinkedIn. 

Grab your pen and journal! This isn’t a regular episode where you get to listen, but one where I’m prompting you to reflect.The episodes where I ask you two sets of questions at the end of the year are always popular, and since I very much enjoyed my own mid-year review, I’m now bringing back this type of episode for the summer.If you had big goals for 2026, or wanted to change your habits, an area of your life or your entire life, this episode will help you see how far you’ve come, what you need to acknowledge and what you can let go of - as well as looking ahead to the final months of the year, how you can create the space for your desired results and what you need to change in order to get there.If you love goal setting or just a good self-reflection session, you’re going to love this episode.And would you like support to move out of expat decision limbo? Schedule a free call for The Co-Pilot here.

Why is it that so many expats start to wonder about their life choices in summer? I’m bringing back a popular episode from two years ago in which I give my perspective - plus tips on what to do with it, of course.And would you like support to move out of expat decision limbo, decide on what's next and start your next chapter? Book a free call to hear more about The Co-Pilot here.

Before we dive in, last chance: doors to The Space - my DIY solo retreat for expats - close in a few days, on July 31st!For years, business coach Elke van Eijk has built an international life shaped by curiosity, courage, and a willingness to embrace change, and based on one core value: freedom. But like many people living abroad, her journey hasn't always been straightforward. Behind every move, career decision, and new chapter came moments of uncertainty, self-reflection, and learning to trust herself.In this episode of This Expat Life, Elke shares the experiences that have shaped her perspective on living internationally, navigating transitions, and creating a life that feels aligned with who you are—not who you think you should be.Together, we explore what it means to build a meaningful life across borders, why personal growth often comes from the unexpected, and how embracing uncertainty can open doors to opportunities you never imagined.Whether you're an expat, considering a big life change, or simply looking for inspiration to create a life that's true to you, this conversation is full of thoughtful insights and practical reflections.Links & Resources:📸 Connect on Instagram: @amandamaxime 💌 Share your reflections: [email protected] 🌐 Explore more: amandamaximecoaching.com 📰 Subscribe to my weekly Air Mail

At the halfway point of the year, I opened my journal, looked back at the 3 big goals I'd set in January, and asked myself one simple question:Am I becoming the person I wanted to become?In this episode, I'm taking you behind the scenes of my first six months of 2026. I'm sharing where I've made progress, where I've fallen short, and the unexpected wins that I wasn’t seeing yet back in January (and they are GOOD!).This check-in and my 3 goals come directly from my solo retreat that I do every December for the new year. And because I know summer often serves as a reset time too, with back to school vibes in September, you might also want to have a process that sets you up for the change you desire.That’s why I re-opened doors to my DIY solo retreat The Space! I offered this two-day experience last December and it was a hit. You can join again now. Sign up, book yourself a nice cottage and go through the material that I’m giving you - yours to keep, so you can do it as often as you’d like!Doors close on July 31st, sign up now! https://www.amandamaximecoaching.com/the-space

By popular demand, I put the replay of my masterclass Out of Expat Decision Limbo back up! Listen here. Available till Tuesday.And then in this episode, I'm answering:- Will you host another round? Because this is not the right time for me.- What is the group like?- When do we start?- What do I exactly get?- What if I can't make the live calls?- I'm already doing therapy, is The Co-Pilot the right move now?If you have another question that's not here, come to the Zoom session or send me a DM!

By popular demand, I put the replay of my masterclass Out of Expat Decision Limbo back up! Listen here. Available till Tuesday.Lol 'a quick episode' has never been my thing but here's an episode with everything you wanted to know about The Co-Pilot before joining!You'll hear:- What exactly you're getting - The practical details- Who is inside this community of amazing people- What is possible for you after The Co-Pilot Ready? Sign up now! https://www.amandamaximecoaching.com/the-co-pilot Doors will close this Tuesday for the rest of summer. 

Laura had been living in Berlin for more than nine years, but after returning from a three-month sabbatical, she realized she couldn't ignore the feeling anymore. She was deeply unhappy in her corporate job and knew she wanted to move back to the UK - but instead of taking action, she found herself stuck in a cycle of overthinking, overworking, and waiting for life to change.For two years, she poured all her energy into a job that no longer fulfilled her, while putting her own dreams on hold. She wanted someone - or something - to come along and change her situation for her.Fast forward to today, and while Laura is still living in Berlin, everything has changed. She's back in the driver's seat of her life, creating the life she wants now instead of waiting until after the move, and confidently working towards her next chapter in the UK.Listen to this episode to hear how Laura shifted from waiting to taking action - and why small steps can completely change the direction of your life.And crave the same transformation as Laura? Let's have a call to see if The Co-Pilot is the right fit for you.Links & Resources:📸 Connect on Instagram: @amandamaxime📰 Subscribe to my weekly Air Mail

What is the most expensive mistake I see high-functioning expats make? In this episode I share my observations!Links & resources:Visit my websiteBook a call for The Co-Pilot Get out of expat decision limbo with my new FREE mini-journey The Roundabout Exit

Before we dive in, last chance to get your DIY solo retreat designed for expats! Get your two-day reset for just €149 (forever access). Doors close on July 31st. Sign up here: https://www.amandamaximecoaching.com/the-space Soraya - a Belgian coach living in Spain - rated her life abroad as a 7 out of 10, but still felt stuck. So stuck that she felt like living in a waiting room. She knew Spain wasn’t here long-term place - but where was her place?Months passed and she wasn’t investing in her home, relationships and more. Till she realized no one was coming to change it for her, and decided to get into action.Fast forward to today, and she’s moving to a whole new country - one that was never the easy choice. Listen to this episode to hear how Soraya made this happen!Links & Resources:📸 Connect on Instagram: @amandamaxime🧳 Sign up for the priority list of The Co-Pilot📰 Subscribe to my weekly Air Mail

Have you ever felt stuck at a crossroads, unable to make a decision no matter how much you think about it?In this episode of This Expat Life, I explore something I see over and over again with expats and globally mobile professionals: the hidden autopilots that quietly influence our decisions.What if the reason you're struggling to move forward isn't because you need more information - but because an unconscious pattern is running the show?I share the five most common autopilots that keep people stuck, from overthinking and fear to busyness and guilt. You'll learn how these patterns show up in everyday life, why they can be so difficult to spot, and how to start making decisions from a place of clarity rather than autopilot.If you're navigating a big life decision, feeling stuck between options, or wondering why you keep postponing the next chapter, this episode is for you.Let me know which autopilot you recognized most in yourself!Links & Resources:📸 Connect on Instagram: @amandamaxime🧳 Book a call to see if The Co-Pilot is the right fit for you📰 Subscribe to my weekly Air Mail

Before we dive in, did you know that doors to The Space - my DIY solo retreat package for expats - are open just for the month of July? 😌 Book it here! Doors close on the 31st.A few years ago, Martina and I met when she joined one of my coaching programs. At the time, she was deep in a burnout. After years of working in the humanitarian sector across the Middle East, South America, Eastern Europe, and Africa, her body had finally forced her to stop.What struck me most about Martina wasn't just her impressive international career, but her willingness to honestly look at the patterns that had brought her to that point, like perfectionism and the belief that her worth was tied to how much she achieved.In this episode of This Expat Life, Martina shares what burnout looked like from the inside, what recovery really required of her, and how her life has changed since.We talk about working in high-pressure international environments, the warning signs she ignored for too long, and the mindset shifts that helped her rebuild her relationship with herself, her work, and her definition of success - especially now that she’s preparing for motherhood.If you've ever struggled with burnout, perfectionism, people-pleasing, or the feeling that slowing down somehow means falling behind, I think you'll find a lot in this conversation.Want to connect with Martina and hear her story? Tune in to the episode and let me know what resonates most with you.Links & Resources:📸 Connect on Instagram: @amandamaxime💌 Share your reflections: [email protected]🌐 Explore more: amandamaximecoaching.com📰 Subscribe to my weekly Air Mail

From being a desert girl in Sedona, Arizona to now a single mom by choice of two back in Amsterdam, with a stop in NYC in between: in this episode I catch up with Charlotte van ‘t Wout.Charlotte (also known as Celine Charlotte on Instagram) is a multiple 7-figure entrepreneur and has lived a global life. She was one of the first guests on the show (her saying yes to my pitch actually was the kick in the butt I needed to get started!) and shared about her life in the US in episode 3. But a lot of things have changed for her since. She moved, twice. And she became a mom, twice. In this new episode of This Expat Life we talk about these changes, how she’s finding life back in Amsterdam, now in a completely different phase of her life, and the cultural differences in motherhood. Want to know more about Charlotte? Follow her on Instagram. Let me know what you thought of this episode! Links & Resources: 📸 Connect on Instagram: @amandamaxime 💌 Share your reflections: [email protected] 🌐 Explore more: amandamaximecoaching.com 📰 Subscribe to my weekly Air Mail

How do you know when to say yes to a big investment, scary step or invitation?I was in California when I got a text at 3AM from a friend: he needed to make a decision around a financial investment - could I advise him? Coincidentally, that day I too had to make a decision about a big investment. If both he and I were going through the same thing, I’m sure others are too. And because I have my ways to find my own answers to these questions, I’m sharing my approach with you in this episode. Plus, at the end you’ll hear what investment & personal project I said yes to 👀 Tune in to find out!PS. This is the Business Insider article I'm talking about

Wow, I absolutely loved this interview. I met Rianne at my business conference in April last month where she delivered a talk on how you can use two Dutch words to amplify your most authentic self the next time you need to perform. And she blew us away. So I knew I had to get her on the show. Because if you live abroad in a context that’s requiring you to adjust or in a global life that’s constantly changing… You want to be your most authentic self. I’m not going to spoil anything further - just listen to this fantastic episode to know how you can be your magnetic self, have more fun, get better results and stay true to yourself. Enjoy! Find more about Rianne on Instagram and LinkedIn.

What’s the ONE quality high-achieving expats have in common? As a coach having worked with 240+ expats personally (aside from my DIY courses), I see this one quality again and again. And… I also see where it’s becoming a trap. In this episode I share what I see and how it’s holding you back, plus my own experiences of when you can soften the quality-turned-trap. I’d love to hear if it resonates! And ready to let go of your self-reliance a little and call in support? Book a call to see if The Co-Pilot is the right fit for you now.

A question came in from someone inside The Co-Pilot recently for our hot seat coaching call - and the moment I read it, I knew it needed its own episode. Because I've been there myself, more than once, and I have a feeling at least one of you listening right now will recognize yourself in it too.My coachee had just joined the program ready for the next chapter. There was momentum, clarity, energy - the good kind of feeling that something new is finally starting to move. And then, a few weeks in, she got ill, enough to slow everything down. And she asked me: what do you do when you want to keep going, but your body or your life just won't let you? In this episode, I share my answer to that - because this isn't just about being sick. It's about any moment where your tank is running low. A stressful stretch at work, a breakup, a grey winter in Europe, grief, burnout. Those seasons where you still feel that pull toward something bigger, but you simply don't have the energy to chase it at full speed. I talk about why those low periods are actually the worst time to make big decisions, why giving yourself explicit permission to pause matters more than you'd think, and what you can do in the meantime - an exercise I've used myself in Rio, after my parents died, and in many other harder chapters - that shifts something internally without costing you the energy you don't have. So if you’re feeling stuck between wanting to move forward and simply not having the capacity to, this one is for you. Let me know what you think! Links & Resources: 📸 Connect on Instagram: @amandamaxime📞 Book a call to see if The Co-Pilot is the right fit for you💌 Share your reflections: [email protected] 🌐 Explore more: amandamaximecoaching.com

Most expats focus on the decision or crossroads that’s in front of them: should I stay or should I go, apply for a new role, relocate, or go for my big scary goal? And it makes sense that most of your attention goes here, but… what few people don’t look at beforehand is who you need to be to carry that decision. If you want to start a next chapter, you need to expand, too, for the decision to be truly a success. And the earlier you are aware of this identity change, the better you can prepare for it.In this episode I explain what I mean with ‘new chapter new you’ by using a personal example of when a stranger told me to go home while I was in Mexico City.Did this episode resonate? I’d love to hear from you! Links & Resources:📖 Prioritize your life with The Wheel of Expat Life (free download)📸 Connect on Instagram: @amandamaxime 💌 Share your reflections: [email protected] 🌐 Explore more: amandamaximecoaching.com

In this episode, I’m answering a question I recently received while I was in Mexico City: how do you not feel lonely when you arrive somewhere new on your own? It’s such a real question - and if you’ve ever moved abroad, even temporarily, you’ve probably felt this too.I’ve experienced this many times myself, arriving in a new city without knowing anyone. And while I genuinely enjoy my own company, I also know that connection is essential for me to feel good and grounded. So in this episode, I’m sharing the three things I personally do every time I land somewhere new to meet people and build meaningful connections (well - tip #3 is dependent on something else 👀). Want to get more tips? Go to episode #1 for the full list of how to make friends and build a community abroad!Links & Resources: 📸 Connect on Instagram: @amandamaxime 💌 Share your reflections: [email protected] 🌐 Explore more: amandamaximecoaching.com

And then you’ve reached episode 100, wow! To celebrate this special episode, for the first time ever, I’m the one being interviewed on my own podcast 👀Tune in to hear how my dear friend Coco Hofs (one of the very first guests on the show) interviews me and asks me some deep questions that really made me think - I had told her that nothing was off topic.In this episode you’ll get honest reflections on what it means to live a global life, making space for the new, and staying true to yourself wherever you go. And if you are a long time listener of the show.. THANK YOU! It means a lot that you are here, listening to the episodes, sharing what my words brought up for you. We are growing our community of heart-led expats and I’m so happy and grateful that you are part of it.If you want to say something about this episode, your favorite episode so far, or the show in general, I’d love to hear!Send me a DM on Instagram at @amandamaxime, or email me anytime at [email protected].

Before we dive in, did you know that doors to The Space - my DIY solo retreat package for expats - are open just for the month of July? Book it here! Doors close on the 31st.There’s something about when a decision has actually been made. Not just knowing what you want… But actually committing to it and taking the first steps. The weight that will be lifted is huge!In this episode of This Expat Life, I share what it felt like to return to The Hague knowing I’m closing this chapter and starting a new one soon - and how different everything feels when you’re no longer stuck in indecision. I talk about the expat waiting room - that in-between phase where life feels “fine,” but something deeper isn’t aligned. A place many expats stay longer than they intend, waiting for clarity that never comes from overthinking. If you’ve been going back and forth on your next move, this episode will help you understand why it feels so heavy - and what shifts when you finally choose. Because clarity doesn’t come from waiting. It comes from deciding. And yes, I’m also sharing what I actually decided for my own next chapter! Listen to know where I’m going 👀 Links & Resources: 📸 Connect on Instagram: @amandamaxime 💌 Share your reflections: [email protected] 🌐 Explore more: amandamaximecoaching.com

Before we dive in, did you know that doors to The Space - my DIY solo retreat package for expats - are open just for the month of July? You get your two-day reset, forever access, and a live call late August for just €149. Book it here! Doors close on the 31st.There’s a phase in expat life I see again and again - and I’ve lived in it myself. It’s that in-between space where you know something needs to change, but you don’t yet know what or where. So you wait. You overthink. You pause your life just a little… until weeks turn into months, and sometimes even years. Inside my world we call this the expat waiting room. And sometimes, you do get clarity and know what is the right decision for you now. But how do you stay your course when doubts come up? When others question your choices? When you are presented with other options? And how do you actually get moving to open a new door? In this solo episode of This Expat Life, I share 3 things I say to myself that have really helped me to keep my eyes on the ball, maintain my confidence, and stay in action. Sometimes you don’t need deeper insights into yourself - you need a super practical easy tool to implement what you already know. Those 3 things are that for me. And by the way, that’s also exactly what you’re getting inside The Co-Pilot: proven, powerful coaching exercises that give you deep insights about yourself and your decisions - as well as practical tools and tips to apply what you’re learning, in the context of your busy global life.I’d love to hear what resonates with you. Send me a DM on Instagram at @amandamaxime, or email me anytime at [email protected]. Links & Resources: 📸 Connect on Instagram: @amandamaxime 💌 Share your reflections: [email protected] ✈️ Join The Co-Pilot: https://www.amandamaximecoaching.com/the-co-pilot 🌐 Explore more: amandamaximecoaching.com

What if you’re navigating an expat life decision… But you’re not doing that alone?In this episode of This Expat Life, I sit down with Wiebke Anton, a relationship coach who works specifically with expat couples and internationally mobile professionals. Together, we explore what really happens beneath the surface when couples are navigating moves, repatriation, career sacrifices, and the unspoken fear that one decision could change everything forever. We talk about why decision-making often feels heavier abroad, how power imbalances quietly show up in expat relationships, and why avoiding difficult conversations can slowly create distance - even when everything looks “fine” on the outside. We also dive into how perfectionism, fear of irreversibility, and the pressure to “make it work” can prevent couples from having honest, connecting conversations. If you’re in a relationship and navigating big expat life decisions - whether you’re moving together, meeting abroad, or feeling stuck between options - this episode will help you feel less alone and more empowered to talk about what truly matters. We’d love to hear what resonates for you! Links & Resources: 📸 Connect on Instagram: @amandamaxime 💌 Share your reflections: [email protected] ✈️ Join The Co-Pilot: https://www.amandamaximecoaching.com/the-co-pilot 🌐 Explore more: amandamaximecoaching.com

The start of a new year is always very exciting to me as I set 3 big goals for the year that I can't wait to work on. But sitting here in Mexico City, beginning 2026 far away from my usual routines, I’ve been reflecting deeply on what this new chapter is asking of me - and what I’m finally ready to let go of.In this episode of This Expat Life, I share my three personal goals for 2026 and the intention behind them - not as resolutions to tick off, but as identities I’m consciously stepping into. I talk about why I choose ambitious goals that stretch me beyond what feels “realistic,” how I use goals as mirrors for who I’m becoming, and what it means to commit even when doubt is still present.I also open up about a big decision I made toward the end of last year - a decision that came after years of waiting, negotiating with myself, and hoping external circumstances would make things clearer. I share what finally helped me move from being frozen to taking responsibility for my next chapter, even without knowing exactly how it will unfold.This episode is for you if you’re entering a new year feeling both excited and unsettled… if you know something needs to change but you don’t yet have the full plan… or if you’re learning how to trust yourself enough to move before certainty arrives.Sometimes clarity doesn’t come before the decision - it comes BECAUSE you made one.If this resonates with you, I’d love to hear your reflections.Send me a DM on Instagram at @amandamaxime, or email me at [email protected] & Resources: 📸 Connect with me on Instagram: @amandamaxime  💌 Share your reflections with me: [email protected] 🌐 More at: amandamaximecoaching.com

How can you make this year different from the last? I’m always incredibly intentional about how I want to start the new year, so that I can ensure my continuous growth and avoid autopilot mode. Many set new year’s resolutions, but these are designed to fail. In this episode I share 12 questions that will help you set your priorities and see how you can stay your course throughout the year.And prefer to turn your answers into concrete results? These are the last days that doors to The Space are open, your DIY solo retreat to start 2026 with clarity, direction and momentum!The Space includes the exact same tools & approaches that I use myself every December to lay down a super strong foundation for the next year. But hurry, as doors are closing and won't open until December next year!--Prefer the 12 questions in written form? Leave your email address here and you will get them delivered to your inbox! https://www.amandamaximecoaching.com/reflection-questionsThis episode is part 2 of a sequence. Go to episode #94 for part 1.Download the free tool The Wheel of Expat Live that I mentioned in the episode here: https://www.amandamaximecoaching.com/wheel-expat-life

Back by popular demand after I did this last year!Here are 12 reflection questions that help you make sense of your year, who you've become and what you want to bring forward (and let go of). I'm answering the same questions for myself and they are already bringing the insights 🔥If you want to change something in your life - big or small - next year, you've got to make sure you have space for it. Getting into the habit of regular reflection is a great way to be more intentional with your time & energy, especially if you are as future-oriented as me. It’s tempting to always look ahead to the next month, the next promotion, the next country - but there are powerful lessons in your past that can make your future even better.I'm sharing a personal intro first, then grab a notebook & pen, a cup of tea and let’s dive into it!Want the questions delivered to your inbox? Leave your email address here: https://www.amandamaximecoaching.com/reflection-questionsEager for more? Then you'll LOVE my DIY solo retreat package The Space, exclusively designed for expats finishing up the year and wanting to start 2026 with confidence, direction and energy. Here you won't get just insightful questions but also powerful exercises & audios to do something with your answers. The Space is a 2-day structure and doors close in a couple of days! And stay closed until December next year. But once you're in, you keep forever access - meaning you can do your own retreat whenever, wherever, and as often as you want :) Enjoy!

I’ve been thinking about the way we treat January 1st as if it’s some kind of magical reset button - a clean slate, a fresh start, the moment everything finally falls into place. And I’ve definitely done that myself!But the truth is… nothing actually resets at midnight. Not your nervous system. Not your overthinking. Not the weight you’ve been carrying all year. And yet, so many of us quietly hold onto the belief that “I’ll figure it out in January.” So we postpone clarity, delay decisions, and put our dreams on hold until the calendar gives us permission. In this episode of This Expat Life, I share what this December is feeling like for me as I’m about to leave for a 3-month trip and also want to be intentional about 2026. I talk about the five small but powerful things we can begin doing now to create that grounded, spacious, fresh-start energy long before the clock hits midnight on New Year’s Eve. Because the version of you you want to become in January can only exist if you start shifting something in December! And if you would like some extra guidance or an energy boost for that, so that you can really make 2026 your year… For the first time ever, I’m sharing the exact tools that I use every year during my annual solo retreat that set me up for growth, success and fun, year after year! And you can now book your own solo retreat too. Book The Space - Cabin Edition - a complete package to have an in-depth retreat yourself, with short(!) videos, boosting exercises and powerful audios. The exact same tools I use myself. Doors close on December 31st (but you keep forever access once you're in and can do this retreat whenever you like). Enter the Cabin! https://amandamaxime.plugandpay.nl/checkout/the-space-cabin-edition

Lately, I’ve been thinking a lot about those chapters in life where everything looks “fine” from the outside - yet something deep inside whispers that this isn’t really your place anymore. Not because anything is dramatically wrong, but because you know you’re meant for something different… something more aligned.In this episode of This Expat Life, I dive into a concept that came up inside The Co-Pilot and instantly struck a chord: the waiting room. It’s that in-between phase where life feels like a 6/10 - functional, familiar, even comfortable - but not truly fulfilling. The kind of place you don’t choose, but somehow drift into. I share how the waiting room has shown up in my own expat journey, how easy it is to stay there longer than you intend, and the subtle ways we end up waiting for clarity, timing, or external signs before we permit ourselves to move. If you’ve ever felt like you’re hovering between chapters, knowing you want change but not knowing when or how to start, this episode will speak to you. It will help you see where you might be giving your power away - and what becomes possible once you decide you’re done waiting. I’d love to hear if this resonates. Send me a DM on Instagram at @amandamaxime, or email me at [email protected]. And if you want to get OUT of the waiting room... Your next door to open is my signature program The Co-Pilot, starting again in June 2026. Sign up for the priority list now so you'll be the first to hear the news and an exclusive offer!Links & Resources:  📸 Connect with me on Instagram: @amandamaxime  💌 Share your reflections with me: [email protected] 🌐 More at: amandamaximecoaching.com

Have you ever had one of those weeks where nothing is technically wrong… but your body, your emotions, and your brain are all just slightly out of sync? That was me last week. In this solo episode of This Expat Life, I open up about a very wobbly, very real week - one where I felt exhausted, anxious, numb, unfocused, and disconnected from myself… for no obvious reason. And as I started sharing it on Instagram, so many people said, “Oh wow, me too.” So I knew I wanted to bring this conversation here. Sometimes the most powerful thing we can do is pause, surrender, and give ourselves what we actually need instead of pushing harder. This conversation is especially for you if:  🌍 You’re abroad and far from the people who usually ground you  🌙 You’ve been feeling low-energy, anxious, or numb  🧠 Your mind is busy but you can’t quite pinpoint why  💛 You’re craving softness, spaciousness, and a bit of self-compassion And in this episode I share the 5 things I did last week that helped me to get back to my grounded, powerful self. I hope this episode lands softly with you — and gives you a moment to breathe, reset, and feel seen. If something resonated or you had an “oh wow, that’s me” moment, I’d love to hear from you. Send me a DM on Instagram at @amandamaxime, or email me at [email protected]. Links & Resources:  📸 Connect with me on Instagram: @amandamaxime  💌 Share your reflections with me: [email protected]  🌐 More at: amandamaximecoaching.com

Have you ever felt like language is the one thing standing between you and truly belonging abroad?In this episode, I dive into a question from a listener about how to overcome language obstacles — not from a technical perspective, but from the inside out. Because learning a new language isn’t just about memorizing words or grammar rules. It’s about how you see yourself, what you believe you’re capable of, and how open you are to connecting in new ways. I share my personal experiences learning Dutch, English, Spanish, and Portuguese while living across different countries — and how each language unlocked a new part of me. You’ll hear about the mindset shifts that made learning easier, the moments I got it wrong (including a funny story involving Brazilian lyrics 😅), and how curiosity and connection made all the difference. If you’ve been feeling stuck, frustrated, or disconnected because of language barriers, this episode will help you reframe that experience — and maybe even start to enjoy the process again. Links & Resources:  📸 Connect with me on Instagram: @amandamaxime  💌 Share your reflections with me: [email protected]  🌐 More at: amandamaximecoaching.com

This week, I’m sharing a very personal story - one that honestly still feels a little raw. Out of nowhere, during an ordinary bike ride home, I got the clearest intuitive nudge: “Pause one-on-one coaching.”There was no plan, no logic, no strategy behind it - just a deep knowing that it was time to let go of something that had brought me so much success. What followed was fear, tears, doubt, and eventually… peace. In this episode, I take you behind the scenes of that decision: how it arrived, why I chose to trust it anyway, and what happened after I did. I also share how this experience completely changed my relationship with hard work, receiving, and self-trust. If you’ve ever felt stuck between what’s working and what’s next or you sense something bigger waiting for you but don’t know how to make space for it, this one’s for you. Links & Resources:  📸 Connect with me on Instagram: @amandamaxime  💌 Share your reflections with me: [email protected]  🌐 More at: amandamaximecoaching.com

Have you ever found yourself stuck in the same loop of overthinking - waiting for “the right moment” or a lightning bolt of clarity before making a big life decision?In this solo episode of This Expat Life, I share the 4-part framework that I use myself and have taught to dozens of overthinking expats to start new chapters in a global life. I talk about what helped us move forward, what true clarity actually looks like, and how to make decisions that feel aligned, calm, and authentic. If you’ve been spinning in indecision, whether about a job, a move, or your next chapter abroad, this episode will help you reconnect with yourself, move forward with confidence, and reclaim your power to choose.And would like more support with that? You can now sign up for the priority list of The Co-Pilot: https://www.amandamaximecoaching.com/priority-co-pilot Links & Resources:  📸 Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amandamaxime  💌 Share your reflections with me: [email protected]  🌐 More at: https://www.amandamaximcoaching.com

Have you ever found yourself lying awake at night, circling the question: “Should I stay or should I go?”In this solo episode of This Expat Life, I uncover the six most common mistakes career-driven expats make when facing big life decisions - mistakes I’ve seen over and over again in my clients, and lived through myself. Whether your crossroads is sparked by a visa, a job, or a quiet inner nudge for change, chances are you’ll recognize yourself in at least one of these. And now that you are aware you might be making one or more of the mistakes… You can avoid them and start making progress on getting your answer to the Expat Dilemma. If you’ve been stuck circling the same options, talking yourself in loops, or waiting for the “perfect” answer, this episode will help you see new ways forward - with more calm, confidence, and clarity.Links & Resources:  📸 Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amandamaxime  💌 Share your reflections with me: [email protected] 🌐 More at: amandamaximecoaching.com

Have you ever found yourself lying awake at night, whispering the question: “Should I stay or should I go?” I bet you have!In this solo episode of This Expat Life, I dive into one of the biggest dilemmas expats face: the tug-of-war between staying where you are, moving on to a new chapter, or returning home. What I’ve seen through my coaching (and lived myself) is that this question isn’t just about location - it’s about identity, belonging, and the version of yourself you want to grow into. Together we’ll explore:  ✨ The Expat Paradox: why life abroad can look perfect on the outside but feel unfulfilled inside  ✨ The Expat Dilemma: how one decision about work, relationships, or location can spiral into a web of options  ✨ The 3 most common ways this dilemma shows up for expats  ✨ Why overthinking keeps you stuck - and how decisions don’t have to take yearsIf you’re stuck at a crossroads in your expat life and wondering which path is truly right for you, this episode is for you. And need a little more help?Doors to The Co-Pilot are soon opening! Go to https://www.amandamaximecoaching.com to know more.

Have you ever gone back to a place where you once lived, only to feel both comforted and strangely disconnected? In this solo episode of This Expat Life, I share my recent experiences of returning to Rio de Janeiro and London, two cities that were once deeply important in my global journey. What I found was a mix of nostalgia, distance, and clarity about how much I’ve grown since living there. Together we’ll explore:  ✨ Why revisiting a former home can feel both familiar and foreign  ✨ The role of nostalgia and why it’s not always the best reason to move back  ✨ How to know if “going back” fits your current chapter  ✨ What it means to create an inner home when your sense of belonging is scattered across countries  ✨ Why accepting all parts of yourself (even the shadow sides) is the foundation of true belonging If you’ve ever returned to a previous home or are thinking about it, this episode is for you. Links & Resources:  📸 Connect with me on Instagram: @amandamaxime https://www.instagram.com/amandamaxime 💌 Share your reflections with me: [email protected] The Co-Pilot are now open! Join us now, our first call is on February 17th >> 🌐 More at: https://www.amandamaximecoaching.com/

It feels like forever since my last solo episode! After our wonderful Global Woman Summer Series, I'm back with some deeply personal reflections from what has been the most amazing and intensive summer. This summer was intense, inspiring, and unforgettable. Between road-tripping through California, a 48-hour visit to Rio, hosting a coaching dinner for 26 women in London, and saying yes to my very first TV interview, I realized there's so much I want to share with you as we transition into this new season. In this episode, I break down five major reflections that stood out for me and what I'm taking into the fall. These insights are for you if you're someone with a busy, packed life who struggles to hear your inner voice, if you're seeking the right community to accelerate your growth, or if you're someone who adapts easily but wants to build a stronger inner foundation. And more importantly, if you're ready to recognize that you might already be living elements of your dream life RIGHT NOW. I also share why I'm focusing more on This Expat Life and growing this community - because I want to connect with YOU more! 👉 I'd love to hear about YOUR summer reflections! What topics do you want to hear more about on the show? Who should I interview next? You can let me know by responding in the Spotify app, sending me an email, or connecting with me on Instagram @AmandaMaxime - I read (and respond to) every message myself! — Want more? 👉 Subscribe to my weekly Air Mail: https://www.amandamaximecoaching.com/email-opt-in👉 Download the free tool The Wheel of Expat Life: https://www.amandamaximecoaching.com/wheel-expat-life

The last episode of The Global Woman Summer Series!---In this honest, open-hearted conversation, Anne and I swap the kind of stories you usually only share with a trusted friend: love bombing, ghosting, dating culture shocks, and the relief of finally meeting someone who’s just as intentional as you are.We also talk about turning 40, rethinking motherhood when the “default” version doesn’t inspire you, and navigating long-distance love when visas and timelines are still uncertain, but trust runs deep. After all, dating & relationships aren't simple as a global woman.This is a conversation about clarity, courage, and creating space for the love - and the life! - you actually want. If you are a global woman and are rethinking your path to motherhood, navigating a long-distance relationship, or simply ready to stop settling, we hope that you’ll find both honesty and hope as we open up.We would love to hear what you took away from this episode. Find Anne on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/_ipromiseitwontbeboring_?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==And Amanda here:Instagram: Https://Www.Instagram.Com/Amandamaxime/https://www.amandamaximecoaching.com

Episode 5 of The Global Woman Series! This summer, every week you’ll get to listen to an honest conversation with a woman navigating life between worlds. The women I interview are inspiring, authentic and an example in leading themselves - all in their own way - and I can’t wait to share the convos! Make sure to subscribe to not miss an episode.When I came across Anne’s viral reel in which she openly shared about taking a leap of faith into the unknown, I knew I had to invite her for the show. She shared openly + authentically about the other side of this global life beyond the adventure & excitement - not having a stable base, long distance relationships, and supporting yourself in petrifying leaps of relocation - which many of us know too. In our interview, Anne gets real about embracing the 'messy middle,' her dating disasters in London, the magnetic pull of California, and how she found the love of her life, Harman, across continents at 39. Tune in for an inspiring and honest conversation about following your heart, rolling with life's punches, and finding home wherever you are in the world.Find Anne on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/_ipromiseitwontbeboring_?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

Episode 4 of The Global Woman Series! This summer, every week you’ll get to listen to an honest conversation with a woman navigating life between worlds. The women I interview are inspiring, authentic and an example in leading themselves - all in their own way - and I can’t wait to share the convos! Make sure to subscribe to not miss an episode.And next up is the inspiring brand provocateur & Mexico City fan girl Erica Reitman! I’ve been following Erica for years and her vibrant energy & creativity has inspired me SO much - in my business, but also in my life abroad and back home again. I knew a conversation with her on the podcast would contain so many nuggets of wisdom & inspiration - and I was right.In this episode, Erica shares all about her expat life in Mexico - which isn’t just one chapter… After spending a few years in Mexico and then trying for a year to settle back in the US again, Erica realized her home country wasn’t the right place for her now. So she & her husband decided to move back to their beloved Mexico City (happening right as we speak) - raising a lot of questions from others who are trying to understand why they’re ‘coming back’ on their decision.Erica shares openly how she felt in the US, what helped her make this big decision, and how she continues to build her self-trust. Moreover, we also talk about how you can set up your home space so that it truly inspires you (even if it’s furnished!) and about Erica’s hack of ‘merching’ her life. I absolutely loved this conversation and the vibrant energy that Erica brought with her. I hope you enjoy this episode.And if you did, let us know by leaving a review for This Expat Life!You can find Erica on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ericareitman/And me too: https://www.instagram.com/amandamaxime/

Episode 3 of The Global Woman Series! This summer, every week you’ll get to listen to an honest conversation with a woman navigating life between worlds. The women I interview are inspiring, authentic and an example in leading themselves - all in their own way - and I can’t wait to share the convos! Make sure to subscribe to not miss an episode.Are you an expat who moved abroad for love, or navigating an international relationship? This episode is for you! (And also for all my single girlies out there! This episode has useful tips that you would want before you move for love 🙂).Elle McPherson used to be the self-reliant nomad, till she found love during the pandemic. She moved to Argentina to be with her now husband and treated it not only as an outer adventure, but also as an inner journey. In this episode, Elle shares her inspiring journey of moving to Buenos Aires for love, navigating cultural challenges, balancing independence with reliance, and finding her community abroad.If you’d like to know more about Elle, take a look on her Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondtheitinerary/.Liked this episode? Leave a review! 

Episode 2 of The Global Woman Series! This summer, every week you’ll get to listen to an honest conversation with a woman navigating life between worlds. The women I interview are inspiring, authentic and an example in leading themselves - all in their own way - and I can’t wait to share the convos! Make sure to subscribe to not miss an episode.Join us today for a heartfelt and raw conversation with Brigette Muller, a global citizen whose journey from South Africa to Tampa, USA, showcases resilience through immense personal loss. In this episode, Brigette opens up about losing her wife suddenly and how she navigated the complexities of grief while living abroad. We dive into the complexities of grieving in a foreign country, cultural differences in dealing with loss, and the essential role of community support. Brigette also offers valuable advice for other expats coping with loss and opens up about her own path to healing and finding purpose. Join us for this touching and insightful episode as we explore what it means to navigate life, love, and loss abroad.Find more about Brigette here:https://brigettemuller.org/https://www.linkedin.com/in/brigettemuller/And about my coaching & courses here: https://www.amandamaximecoaching.com

We’re kicking off The Global Woman Summer Series of This Expat Life! (or Winter Series if you live in the southern hemisphere :)). This summer, every week you’ll get to listen to an honest conversation with a woman navigating life between worlds. The women I interview are inspiring, authentic and an example in leading themselves - all in their own way - and I can’t wait to share the convos! Make sure to subscribe to not miss an episode.Our first interview of The Global Woman Summer Series is with Mickelle Weber: the founder of House of Peregrine, a creative technologist, and a passionate advocate for meaningful connections and intentional living. In this episode, Mickelle shares her compelling journey from Salt Lake City, Utah to Amsterdam, Netherlands, exploring themes of identity, belonging, and personal growth. Discover how Mickelle has navigated the challenges and triumphs of living abroad, all while fostering a deep sense of community and shared experience. Whether you're an expat, a nomad, or simply curious about life abroad, this episode offers valuable insights on creating a life that's true to your values and aspirations.You can find more about Mickelle’s House of Peregrine here: https://www.houseofperegrine.com.Want to go deeper on your own identity, belonging and personal growth? My doors are open for 1:1 coaching this summer. Find more here.

You can now sign up for the priority list of The Co-Pilot: https://www.amandamaximecoaching.com/priority-co-pilot 

The Co-Pilot are now open! Join us now, our first call is on February 17th >>Ana Tello, a Panamanian expat in Germany, had it all: a successful career, a nice apartment, a fancy car - but on the inside, she felt sad and lost. She had secret dreams but didn’t know where to start. If you see her now, absolutely thriving and living her dream life, you wouldn’t think that that was her starting point!Ana shares how coaching with Amanda helped her uncover her true desires, overcome deep-seated fears, and begin living a life aligned with her soul. She left her corporate job to start her own business empowering Latinos to migrate to Germany and now splits her time between her two homes. Ana’s story is a testament to the power of self-investment and the transformative potential of coaching - and in this episode, she gives advice to expats who feel lost and stuck too.Want to know more about Ana? Find her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ana.la.alemana/

Where should I go this fall? A couple of weeks ago I asked you this on Instagram as I want to spend a few months abroad again - and I got a long list of suggestions.And it seems I made my decision… In this episode, I break down the process of how I got to it, so you can understand how I use my inner clarity system to make authentic decisions and take confident action. Now it’s about my next destination, but I’ve used the same principles to decide on quitting my job, moving to Rio for 6 months, and so much more - allowing me to make a choice without constant overthinking. These pillars are for you if you find yourself worrying about your next step, feeling stuck in a sea of options, or don’t have clarity on what you want.And would you like to actually nail that inner clarity system, so you can feel confident about your move no matter where life takes you?Priority doors to The Co-Pilot are now open! Enjoy early access, a 30% discount AND a private decision session. Sign up by Friday January 30th: https://www.amandamaximecoaching.com/the-co-pilot

Candice and I are organizing a Global Girls Supper Club in London on September 4th - join us for a coaching workshop, fun and new connections! Tickets are going fast, get them here.If you are single, in a situationship or navigating dating in your global life, this episode is for you!Candice Gallagher knows all about dating as an expat - up to the point that when she lived in Singapore, she started SinglePore, a dating event company to help singles meet offline. Now back home in England - although, what's home really after living abroad for 18 years? - she's still on that mission to help exhausted daters, and find love herself. On her social media accounts Candice very openly shares about the struggles we all go through quietly - which made me personally feel less alone 🫶In this episode we talk about why she founded Single Pore, her experience of dating in different countries, mourning the hope after a failed situationship, the challenges of finding the right relationship as an expat, and advice for high-achieving women looking for the right partner abroad - and much more!If you are exhausted by modern dating, abroad or back home again, you'll love this episode. (And if that's the case, make sure to subscribe and leave a review!).You can find Candice & her dating stories on Instagram, TikTok and Substack.

Almost weekly I get requests from other coaches and (aspiring) business owners if I can have a virtual coffee with them because they want to hear how I set up my business, work on my online presence and more. And almost always I decline them (simply because my focus is elsewhere - the people pleaser in me struggles with this!).But this week I organized a free call for a small group to chat all things business. And I figured, why not share that on the podcast too? So I recorded this episode, in which I share the 4 pillars for The Globetrotter CEO. If you are an expat or nomad and have your own online business or are thinking about starting one, this episode is for you. Because it's one thing to run a business... It's another to do that while you roam the world or are far away from your trusted inner circle.And if you like what I'm saying, then you'll LOVE the content from my business mentor James Wedmore.If you hurry, you can still catch the replay of his AMAZING, free 3-part training:>>> Sign up for The Rise of the Digital CEO** Affiliate link. And if you sign up for his program Business By Design through me, you'll also get some really cool bonuses with me - including live calls with a group of fellow globetrotting CEOs, content brainstorming and more! Take a look here!

The #1 question I get asked is: Why did you leave your diplomacy career? Followed by #2: Will you go back? Which always surprises me because it's been over 3 years since I quit as a diplomat and started my coaching practice!However, sometimes I do miss certain elements of that career and lately I've been wondering... So in this episode, I'm going to share my honest answer to the question of if I would go back 👀Liked this episode? Let us know by leaving a review! 🙏Want more?➡️ Sign up for my weekly Air Mail