Adobo Yarn

Imagine stepping off a plane into a new country right as the world is emerging from global lockdowns. You’re alone, you’re lost, and within your first 48 hours, things go completely off the rails—and you have absolutely no idea who or where to ask for help.In this episode, Anna and Razel sit down with Osep Estrada, who shares his raw, hilarious, and deeply moving experience of migrating to Australia solo in the immediate aftermath of COVID-19. Osep takes us back to those chaotic first two days in Adelaide South Australia, where a stressful series of mishaps led him to an unlikely saviour at a CBD Information Centre.But survival was just step one. Osep opens up about what comes after the initial landing:The roommate reality: The learning curves of navigating shared housing and living with flatmates.Stitching pieces together - his version of "adobo" yarn : How reclaiming his old hobbies of knitting and crochet, and cooking Filipino dishes he missed from back home, has become a vital anchor for his mental health and comfort.The ultimate career pivot: Trading in his old life as a landscape architect to find his footing in the hospitality industry that is the absolute polar opposite.Whether you’re a migrant who remembers the exact weight of your own first suitcase, or you're currently trying to reinvent yourself in a new city, Osep’s story is a beautiful reminder that sometimes being completely lost is exactly how you find your people—and yourself.We all have different migration journeys, but being solo is a whole other adventure. Which part of Osep's story resonates with you? Subscribe, listen and engage with us. Disclaimer: This episode features the personal story and lived experiences of our guest. It does not constitute professional career, legal, or migration advice. For specific guidance on migrating to Australia, always check official government resources.Adobo Yarn is our story as Filipinos, navigating the migrant life in Australia. Here, we share stories that resonate. Middle-age (Gen X) wisdom, meno episodes, parenting hacks, unfiltered conversations, hilarious experiences, anecdotes and recipes that brought us comfort when we needed it. From raising babies to now young adults, and navigating the labyrinth that is Australia. Join the conversation! Follow us on Instagram and Facebook - Adobo Yarn Podcast Follow Anna on Instagram Adobo Down UnderFollow Razel on Instagram In Season TodayMusic: Bass and Claps by Anastacia Chubarova from Pixabay

The crisp air has officially hit, and you know what that means—it’s time for the "Winter Pivot." In this episode, Anna and Razel settle in with hot mugs to discuss the inevitable shift from summer ease to winter survival.We’re diving deep into the seasonal wardrobe transition: the ritual of bringing out the scarves and beanies, and the perfect pair of boots that can survive a rainy commute. But staying warm isn't just about what you wear; it's about what you eat. We share our ultimate winter comforts, comparing the soul-warming power of traditional Pinoy soups (team Sinigang or Bulalo?) against the flaky, golden embrace of a classic warming pie, or the comfort hug of champorado!We also get real about the practical side of the chill. We share our (sometimes desperate) energy-saving hacks at home—turn off the heater (?), the strategic use of Oodies to the Filipino-parent-approved method of "just putting on another jumper."  We also share our honest take on what we appreciate (and strongly dislike) about the Australian winter.Pull up a chair, grab a bowl of something steaming, and join the yarn. Or better yet, we'd love to hear your tips for staying warm and toasty during the winter months! Support the Podcast: If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5-star review and share it with a friend who's currently shivering!Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts. Any content provided is for entertainment and informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional financial, dietary, or home maintenance advice. Please consult with a professional regarding energy-saving appliances or electrical safety in your home.Adobo Yarn is our story as Filipinos, navigating the migrant life in Australia. Here, we share stories that resonate. Middle-age (Gen X) wisdom, meno episodes, parenting hacks, unfiltered conversations, hilarious experiences, anecdotes and recipes that brought us comfort when we needed it. From raising babies to now young adults, and navigating the labyrinth that is Australia. Join the conversation! Follow us on Instagram and Facebook - Adobo Yarn Podcast Follow Anna on Instagram Adobo Down UnderFollow Razel on Instagram In Season TodayMusic: Bass and Claps by Anastacia Chubarova from Pixabay