The In- Between Life

Australia is known as one of the most multicultural countries in the world—but what does inclusion actually look like when you’re a migrant working here?In this episode of In Between Life, I share my experience as a pastry chef and skilled migrant in Melbourne, exploring the reality of diversity and inclusion in Australian workplaces—especially in hospitality.Because there’s a difference between being present at work… and truly feeling like you belong.From navigating communication styles and cultural differences to understanding workplace dynamics, confidence, and visibility—this episode breaks down what many migrants experience but rarely talk about openly.We also connect real experiences with research from cross-cultural psychology and workplace studies to understand:• The difference between diversity and inclusion• Why many migrants feel “present but not included” at work• Cultural differences in communication and leadership styles• The role of confidence, visibility, and workplace dynamics in career growth• Psychological safety and why it matters in multicultural teams• How migration impacts identity, performance, and belonging• Practical ways migrants can navigate Australian work cultureIf you’re an immigrant, international student, or professional working in Australia—especially in hospitality, healthcare, IT, or service industries—this episode will resonate deeply.This is not just a conversation about workplaces.It’s about identity, belonging, and what it takes to build a life—and a career—in a new country.Australian Bureau of StatisticsRoberson, Q.M. (2006) — Workplace InclusionShore, L.M. et al. (2011) — Inclusion & PerformanceGeert Hofstede — Cultural Dimensions TheoryAmy Edmondson — Psychological SafetyJohn W. Berry (1997) — Acculturation TheorySyed & Özbilgin (2009) — Migration & Workplace Marginality🎙️ In Between Life explores migration, identity, hospitality life, and the real experiences of building a future in Australia.📢 Follow the podcast for real migrant stories💬 Share this episode with someone navigating work in Australia📊 Vote in the poll and join the conversation

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

Loneliness is one of the most common — and least talked about — experiences of moving to a new country.In this episode of In Between Life, I talk about the emotional reality of loneliness as a migrant in Australia — something that doesn’t come with visa documents, job offers, or university brochures.From working long hours in hospitality to navigating cultural differences and building friendships from scratch, this episode explores what it really feels like to live far from home.I also connect personal experiences with research from cross-cultural psychology and migration studies, including concepts like acculturative stress and identity shift — to explain why so many immigrants feel isolated, even when surrounded by people.We talk about:• Why loneliness is common among immigrants in Australia• The challenge of making meaningful friendships as an adult• Cultural differences in social life and communication• Staying within your own community vs integrating into a new culture• Identity shifts and the emotional impact of migration• Work-life patterns that increase isolation (especially in hospitality)• How loneliness can also become a space for growth and self-discoveryIf you’re an immigrant, international student, or working professional in Australia who has ever felt alone, disconnected, or in between — this episode will resonate with you.This is not just your experience.It’s a shared reality.🎙️ Follow In Between Life for honest conversations about migrant life in Australia, identity, mental health, hospitality careers, and everything we go through while becoming.Episode References - Berry, J.W. (1997) — Acculturative Stress & AdaptationTajfel & Turner (1979) — Social Identity TheoryWard, Bochner & Furnham (2001) — Culture Shock & AdjustmentStudies in Migration & Cross-Cultural Psychology (Google Scholar)

What does it really feel like to build a life in Australia as an immigrant in 2026?In this episode of In Between Life, I reflect on everything we’ve talked about so far — from the rising cost of living in Australia to burnout, identity, and the emotional reality of starting over.Following my last episode on the cost of living, I dive deeper into what’s changed since 2022 — including inflation, petrol prices, groceries, and government relief measures — and why, despite these changes, many immigrants and hospitality workers still feel financially and emotionally stretched.This episode is also a reflection on the journey of this podcast and the stories shared so far:• The pressure to find your first job in Australia• The reality of working in hospitality as a migrant• Conversations with Sandra, Darlene, and fellow chefs navigating visa pressure and responsibility• Burnout in demanding industries and the mental health impact of migration• Insights from Isha on emotional exhaustion, resilience, and coping strategies• Identity struggles — living between visas, countries, and versions of yourselfIf you’re an immigrant, international student, or working professional in Australia trying to build stability while navigating uncertainty — this episode will resonate deeply.This is not just one story.This is a shared experience.🎙️ Follow In Between Life for real, unfiltered conversations about migrant life in Australia, hospitality careers, mental health, identity, and the journey of becoming Reach out to me on Instagram - @itsthecookiebrain Linkedin - Gaurvi P

Living in Australia is often seen as a better opportunity — but what does it actually cost to build a life here as an immigrant?In this episode of In Between Life, I break down the real cost of living in Australia (2022–2026) based on my experience as a pastry chef and skilled migrant in Melbourne.From rising inflation to everyday expenses, this is an honest look at what it takes to survive — and why saving money feels harder than ever.We talk about:• Weekly grocery costs in Australia ($80–$120+)• Transport expenses using Myki in Melbourne ($40–$50/week)• Petrol prices and weekly fuel costs ($1.80–$2.20 per litre)• Health insurance costs for visa holders ($100–$150/month)• How inflation has increased living costs by 10–25% since 2022• The reality of income vs tax (30%+ deductions)• Why many immigrants and hospitality workers struggle to saveThis episode is for immigrants, international students, and anyone working in hospitality in Australia who feels like they’re earning… but not getting ahead.If you’ve ever questioned your financial progress, felt the pressure of rising costs, or wondered if this journey is worth it this conversation will resonate.🎙️ Follow In Between Life for real, unfiltered stories about migration, work, mental health, and the life we build in between visas and dreams.References- Australia Human rights institutehttps://www.humanrights.unsw.edu.au/about-us/theinstituteAustralian Bureau of Statisticshttps://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/economy/price-indexes-and-inflation/consumer-price-index-australia/latest-release

Episode 9 with transcriptsLiving in Australia is often seen as a better opportunity — but what does it actually cost to build a life here as an immigrant?In this episode of In Between Life, I break down the real cost of living in Australia (2022–2026) based on my experience as a pastry chef and skilled migrant in Melbourne.From rising inflation to everyday expenses, this is an honest look at what it takes to survive — and why saving money feels harder than ever.We talk about:• Weekly grocery costs in Australia ($80–$120+)• Transport expenses using Myki in Melbourne ($40–$50/week)• Petrol prices and weekly fuel costs ($1.80–$2.20 per litre)• Health insurance costs for visa holders ($100–$150/month)• How inflation has increased living costs by 10–25% since 2022• The reality of income vs tax (30%+ deductions)• Why many immigrants and hospitality workers struggle to saveThis episode is for immigrants, international students, and anyone working in hospitality in Australia who feels like they’re earning… but not getting ahead.If you’ve ever questioned your financial progress, felt the pressure of rising costs, or wondered if this journey is worth it this conversation will resonate.🎙️ Follow In Between Life for real, unfiltered stories about migration, work, mental health, and the life we build in between visas and dreams.References- Australia Human rights institutehttps://www.humanrights.unsw.edu.au/about-us/theinstituteAustralian Bureau of Statisticshttps://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/economy/price-indexes-and-inflation/consumer-price-index-australia/latest-release

Burnout in hospitality is real — but for many immigrants in Australia, it goes even deeper across industries like agriculture, paramedics, healthcare, ITIn this episode of In Between Life, I sit down with Isha, who brings a rare and powerful perspective. Having worked in hospitality across India and Australia in front office, food & beverage, and sales roles — she now works in the mental health field, supporting people experiencing psychosocial challenges.Together, we explore burnout not just as exhaustion from long hours, but as something layered with migration, identity, and the pressure to survive in a new country.We talk about:• Why burnout is so common in the hospitality industry• The added pressure on immigrants and international students in Australia• Early signs of burnout most people ignore• Emotional vs physical burnout — and how to recognise both• How work stress starts affecting life outside the job• Realistic ways to protect your mental health while working long hours• Cultural barriers around mental health in Asian and immigrant communitiesIf you're hospitality worker, or immigrant trying to build a life in Australia — this conversation will feel real, honest, and necessary.You’re not alone in feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, or stuck.🎙️ Follow In Between Life for real stories about migration, work, and the life we build in betweenhttps://www.lifeline.org.au/https://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au/https://www.beyondblue.org.au/get-supporthttps://mensline.org.au/phone-and-online-counselling/

Behind every chef in a kitchen, there’s a story that goes far beyond food.In this episode of "In Between Life" I speak with a fellow chef from the Philippines who shares her journey of moving to Australia, building a career in hospitality, and navigating life as an immigrant.We talk about what it really means to be the primary visa holder while your partner is dependent — the responsibility, the pressure, and the emotional weight that comes with it.From working long hours in professional kitchens to adjusting to a new country, culture, and system, her story reflects the reality many migrant workers in Australia experience but rarely talk about openly.This episode explores:• Immigrant life in Australia• Working as a chef in the hospitality industry• Visa pressure and responsibility as the primary applicant• Emotional resilience and adapting to a new lifeIf you are an immigrant, international student, or hospitality worker in Australia, this conversation will feel deeply relatable.These are the stories behind the aprons — real, unfiltered, and still unfolding.🎙️ Listen now and follow the podcast for more real migrant stories from kitchens across Australia

Burnout is one of the most common but least talked about realities of working in hospitality.In this episode, I share my personal experience as an immigrant pastry chef in Melbourne working six days a week while trying to build a stable life in Australia.From early morning kitchen shifts to late night rides on public transport, hospitality life can be physically demanding and emotionally exhausting — especially for migrants balancing work, studies, visas, and the pressure to succeed in a new country.Why do so many chefs, kitchen workers, baristas, and hospitality professionals feel constantly tired?How does migration make burnout even heavier?And why do we rarely talk about it openly?This episode explores the quiet realities of burnout in hospitality, the immigrant mindset of pushing through exhaustion, and the resilience it takes to keep building a life far from home.If you’re an immigrant, international student, chef, or hospitality worker in Australia, this conversation will feel very familiar.In the next episode, I’ll also be speaking with a mental health professional who previously worked in hospitality, to discuss practical ways professionals can deal with burnout both personally and professionally.Follow the podcast, share it with someone in hospitality, and join the conversation.

Moving to a new country changes more than your address — it can change your identity.In this episode of In Between Life, Gaurvi shares a deeply personal reflection on the identity crisis many skilled migrants face in Australia. When your life starts revolving around visa statuses — student visa, temporary visa, sponsored worker — it can feel like your professional identity, confidence, and sense of belonging are constantly being redefined.As a pastry chef and skilled migrant working in hospitality, Gaurvi talks honestly about living between two countries, rebuilding a career from scratch, and navigating the emotional pressure that many immigrants silently carry.This episode explores:• Identity crisis as a skilled migrant• Living between two cultures and countries• Career resets in the hospitality industry• The mental health challenges of migration• Burnout, resilience, and rebuilding confidence• Life while waiting for permanent residency in AustraliaIf you’re an immigrant, international student, hospitality worker, or migrant building a life in Australia, this conversation will feel familiar.You’re not alone in the uncertainty, the pressure, or the quiet strength it takes to keep going.

In this episode of In Between Life, I share my journey from international student to sponsored pastry chef — navigating school, part-time kitchen work, visa transitions, and the emotional reality of starting over in your late 30s.I talk about studying at Le Cordon Bleu, Melbourne, Australia, balancing three days of school with three days of work, and how soft skills, cultural sensitivity, and professional discipline shaped my transition from student visa to sponsored work visa in 2023.This is not a success story.It’s a real story.We talk about:Migrant life in AustraliaHospitality careers for international studentsStudent visa to work visa Working while studying pastry artsCultural integration in Australian workplacesDiscipline, sacrifice, and professional growthIf you’re an immigrant, hospitality worker, international student, or someone rebuilding life in Australia — this episode is for you.Not advice. Not motivation.Just the truth about building something from the ground up.

What is it really like working in hospitality as a migrant in Australia?In this episode, I interview a fellow Colombian hospitality worker about their real experience moving abroad — from jobs, to challenges, and what helps them overcome the cultural and language barriers.We talk about:Migrant life in AustraliaChallenges in the workplace Motivations behind ChefsBuilding a life while waiting for stabilityIf you’re an international student, skilled migrant, or working in hospitality overseas, this honest conversation will resonate deeply.This is a real story from the in-between.

Starting over in a new country sounds exciting — until you actually have to do it.In this episode of In Between Life, I share the story of my very first hospitality job in Australia — just 10 days after landing as a migrant student.From identity confusion to culture shock, I talk about:The pressure to find work immediately in AustraliaWhat kitchen trials are really like here vs back homeThe emotional shift from experienced professional to “new migrant”Lessons I learned in my first month working in Australian hospitalityIf you're an immigrant, international student, chef, or skilled migrant trying to find your first job in Australia — this episode is for you.This is not advice.This is the reality of starting over.🎧 Real migrant stories.Unfiltered. Still unfolding.

Before I was a pastry chef in Australia, I was a home baker in India trying to rebuild my life.In this first episode of In Between Life, I share my journey — from baking my first messy cake in Mumbai, to studying patisserie in France, building a cloud kitchen in India, and starting over again as a Le Cordon Bleu student in Melbourne.This is a story about migration, reinvention, and the quiet reality of starting from zero more than once.Not a success story.Not advice.Just an honest migrant journey — still unfolding.If you’re a migrant in Australia, a hospitality worker, an international student, or someone rebuilding life far from home — this episode is for you.Follow In Between Life for real stories about migration, identity, hospitality life, and everything we go through while becoming.

In Between Life is a podcast about the space migrants live in — between leaving home and finding belonging.Through honest conversations with hospitality workers and skilled migrants, this podcast explores survival, identity, mental health, and the quiet struggles no one talks about.Not success stories. Not advice. Just real life in between.