Unmarked

PODCAST · society

Unmarked

Life doesn’t come with a grading rubric. Unmarked is an open conversation between two international teachers figuring out life, love, and purpose far from home. No edits, no filters!

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    Episode 4 — A Lesson On Chemistry

    In this episode, we talk about the difference between comfort and chemistry. The calm, steady kind of love versus the intense, exciting connection that keeps you guessing. We explore whether we mistake chaos for chemistry, and if comfort is something we truly value… or sometimes overlook.Because maybe the question isn’t which one is better but what we actually need.Homework: Stand by Me by Ben E. King Why relationships in 2026 carry impossible expectations Follow @unmarked.pod [email protected] 🤍

  2. 20

    Episode 3 — Friendship

    In this episode, we talk about what makes a friendship last, how people grow together or apart, and the quiet moments that define real connection. From loyalty and support to misunderstandings and outgrowing each other, we reflect on the friendships that shape who we are.Because sometimes friendships feel like home.And sometimes they teach you when it’s time to let go.Homework:How to Win Friends and Influence People — Dale CarnegieBride WarsLean on Me — Bill WithersFollow @[email protected] 🤍

  3. 19

    Episode 2 — Emotional Baggage Claim

    We all carry something.Old patterns, past relationships, habits we thought we’d outgrown.In this episode, we unpack emotional baggage. What we bring into our lives and relationships, and whether it protects us or holds us back.Because it’s not just about what you carry. It’s about whether you ever unpack it.Homework:Something’s Got a Hold on Me — Etta JamesWhy Coffee No Longer Tastes The SameFollow @[email protected] 🤍

  4. 18

    Episode 1 - The Art of Disappearing

    We’re back.But not everything returns the same way.Some people don’t leave all at once.They fade. Slowly, quietly… until one day you realize they’re no longer part of your life.In this first episode of Season 2, we talk about the art of disappearing, the slow fades, the unanswered messages, and the endings that never really get named. We explore why we choose silence over honesty, and whether disappearing is a form of self-protection… or avoidance.We also ask the harder question:what about the times we were the ones who disappeared?Maybe not every story gets closure. But maybe we still need to create it.Homework:“Goodbye Stranger” — Supertramp Challenge:Have one honest conversation you’ve been avoiding. Give or ask for the closure you didn’t get.Follow the podcast on Instagram & TikTok @unmarked.podShare your thoughts with us at [email protected] available on YouTubeIf you’re glad we’re back, don’t forget to leave a comment and a 5-star review 🤍

  5. 17

    Episode 17 — Parenting & Kids

    In this episode, we talk about what it means to raise children today, the expectations parents place on themselves and their kids, and how our own childhood experiences shape the way we think about parenting. And somewhere in this episode… there’s a small announcement about the future of the podcast.You’ll have to listen to find out.Homework:Father and Son — Cat StevensRead an article about different parenting styles.Follow the podcast on Instagram & TikTok @unmarked.podShare your thoughts with us at [email protected] available on YouTube.If this episode resonated, don’t forget to leave a comment and a 5-star review 🤍

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    Episode 16 — Expectation vs Reality

    In this episode, we talk about the gap between what we planned and what actually happened. From career paths and relationships to the small everyday moments where reality looks nothing like the picture we had in our heads.Is the difference between expectation and reality disappointment… or simply life unfolding in its own way?Sometimes reality isn’t worse. Just different.Homework:Listen: “You Can Get It If You Really Want” — Jimmy CliffWatch: A video essay by Anna Howard on how language shapes our reality.Follow the podcast on Instagram & TikTok @unmarked.podShare your thoughts with us at [email protected] available on YouTube.If this episode resonated, don’t forget to leave a comment and a 5-star review 🤍

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    Episode 15 — I Am Every Woman

    For this special International Women’s Day episode, we’re joined by our very first guest, our principal, who also happens to be the only woman on the leadership team at our school.In this conversation, we talk about what it really means to be a woman navigating leadership, expectations, and ambition. From the realities of stepping into spaces that are often still male-dominated, to the quiet strength it takes to lead with confidence and authenticity.We also reflect on the many roles women carry — teacher, leader, mentor, friend, and the stories that shape the women we become. Homework:Watch: The Real HousewivesListen: I’m Every Woman — Chaka KhanListen: This Must Be the Place — Talking HeadsFollow the podcast on Instagram & TikTok @unmarked.podShare your thoughts with us at [email protected] available on YouTube.If this episode resonated, don’t forget to leave a comment and a 5-star review 🤍

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    Episode 14 — Seasons in Our Lives

    Some people are forever. Some are seasonal. The hardest part is knowing the difference.In this episode, we talk about the seasons of our lives, the friendships we outgrew, the relationships that shaped us, the versions of ourselves we had to let go of.Is change something we choose or something that chooses us? Maybe not everything is meant to last. Maybe some things are meant to teach.Homework:Landslide — Fleetwood MacHow I Met Your Mother Follow the podcast on Instagram & TikTok @unmarked.podShare your thoughts with us at [email protected] this episode resonated, don’t forget to leave a comment and a 5-star review 🤍

  9. 13

    Episode 13 — Celebrating Heritage (Keep it or Toss it)

    Why do we do the things we do? In this episode, we unpack the customs we grew up with: the ones that felt magical, the ones that felt heavy, and the ones we’re not sure we’ll carry forward. From childhood rituals and family expectations to weddings, surnames, and generational rules, we explore what it means to live between honoring your roots and creating your own path.Traditions shape us. But we get to decide which ones shape our future.Which tradition are you keeping and which one stops with you?Homework:To Listen - CNY Song: 万事 All Right 酷哒哒 (Everything's Alright! Kudada)To Watch - CNY Short Film: Hundred Families QuiltTo Read - Little Women by Louisa May AlcottFollow us on Instagram & TikTok @unmarked.podEmail us your thoughts at [email protected] this episode resonated, don’t forget to leave a comment and a 5-star review 🤍

  10. 12

    Episode 12 — Love, Unmarked

    This Valentine’s special, we’re talking about love the only way we know how, honest, nostalgic, and a little chaotic.We revisit our school crushes, first butterflies in the hallway, and the unexpected perks (and realities) of dating a teacher. We get real about love and dating now, what we’ve learned, what we’re unlearning, and the green and red flags we wish we noticed sooner. Plus, we play a special Valentine’s game that may or may not expose us.Love Homework:Normal People — Sally RooneyAt Last — Etta JamesFinding Her EdgeLove isn’t always perfect. But maybe it doesn’t have to be.Follow the podcast on Instagram & TikTok @unmarked.podShare your thoughts with us at [email protected] available on YouTube.If this episode resonated, don’t forget to leave a comment and a 5-star review 🤍

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    Episode 11 — First times that changed us

    Some first times announce themselves loudly. Others slip in quietly and change everything before you even notice. In this episode, we talk about the first moments that shaped us such as brave beginnings, awkward starts, and the times we didn’t realize we were becoming someone new.Homework:Listen: Olivia Dean — DiveMake a list of books or movies that changed you the first time you experienced them.Follow the podcast on Instagram & TikTok @unmarked.podShare your thoughts with us at [email protected] this episode resonated, don’t forget to leave a comment and a 5-star review 🤍

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    Episode 10 — Down the Aisle or Window Seat?

    In this episode, we’re back from vacation and reflecting on what travel gives us, the movement, the pauses, and the people we meet along the way. From choosing aisle or window seats to the quiet moments that only happen when you’re away, this conversation is about transition, perspective, and how travel gently reshapes us.Whether you travel to escape, reset, or feel inspired again, this one is about being in motion, and noticing who you become along the way.Homework:People We Meet on VacationCanyon Moon — Harry StylesYou Are Here — David NichollsFollow the podcast on Instagram & TikTok @unmarked.podShare your thoughts with us at [email protected] available on YouTubeIf this episode resonated, don’t forget to leave a comment and a 5-star review 🤍

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    Episode 9 — Assessed in School and Life

    In this episode, we talk about assessment — not just in school, but in life. From grades, observations, and evaluations in the classroom to the quiet ways we measure ourselves as adults, this conversation explores pressure, comparison, and self-worth.What happens when being assessed doesn’t stop after school?And how do we learn to step outside of constant evaluation?This episode is about unlearning the need to be measured, and choosing presence over performance.Homework: Listen: Ain’t No Mountain High Enough — Marvin Gaye and Tammi TerrellRead: Tara Westover — Educated Watch: The best way to become good at something might surprise you - David EpsteinFollow the podcast on Instagram & TikTok @unmarked.podShare your thoughts with us at [email protected] available on YouTubeIf this episode resonated, don’t forget to leave a comment and a 5-star review 🤍

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    Episode 8 — Hope-ing into 2026

    In this episode, we talk about hopes, intentions, and the kind of resolutions that don’t come with pressure. As we step into a new year, this conversation is about reflecting on what we’re carrying forward, what we’re ready to release, and how we want the next chapter to feel, both in and out of the classroom.No “new year, new me.” Just honesty, growth, and a little hope.Homework:📚 Bridget Jones’s Diary 🎵 Shake It Out — Florence + The Machine🎬96 Years of Wisdom: The 3 Lessons That Will Make You Feel AweFollow the podcast on Instagram & TikTok @unmarked.podSend us your thoughts at [email protected] available on YouTubeIf this episode resonated with you, don’t forget to leave a comment and a 5-star review — it helps us more than you know 🤍

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    Episode 7 — Letting Go

    In this episode, we talk about what it really means to let go. Letting go of expectations, old versions of ourselves, and things that no longer fit the life we’re living now. From the classroom to real life, this conversation is about release, growth, and choosing what we carry forward.Letting go isn’t losing, sometimes it’s making space.Homework:🎬 Past Lives🎵 I Wish You Love — Sam Cooke✍️ Write your word for the yearFollow the podcast on Instagram & TikTok @unmarked.podSend us your thoughts at [email protected] available on YouTubeIf this episode resonated with you, don’t forget to leave a comment and a 5-star review — it helps us more than you know 🤍

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    Episode 6 — All Teachers Want for Christmas is a Break

    In this Christmas episode, we slow things down and talk about our Christmas traditions. From teaching through December to finding small moments of calm, this one is about reflection, gratitude, and drinks.Homework:🎬 It’s a Wonderful Life📖 The Magic Faraway Tree by Enid Blyton🎵 Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas — Billie HolidayFollow the podcast on Instagram and TikTok @unmarked.pod or send us your email into [email protected]. Also available on YouTube Don’t forget to leave a comment and 5 start review!Merry Christmas 🤍

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    Episode 5 — Burnout

    In this episode, we talk about the kind of tired that isn’t fixed by sleep, the emotional load, the pressure, and the slow slide into burnout.From the classroom to the real-life burnout, we break down what it looks like and what helps you find your way back.Homework:🎬 Signs of Clinical Burnout🎵 Vienna — Billy JoelIf you’re running on low battery, this one’s for you. Subscribe for weekly episodes. Give us 5 stars and share with your friends!Follow us on IG and Tiktok: @unmarked.pod Send us your email: [email protected]

  18. 4

    🎙️ Episode 4 — The Life of a Teacher

    In this episode, we take you through a full day in our lives as international teachers. The early-morning hustle, classroom magic (and madness), tiny things kids do that make everything worth it, the exhaustion no one talks about, the soft moments that remind us why we’re here. Check our Homework this week! Our recommendations for anyone who needs a little comfort after a long day.📖 5 Types of Hobbies Everyone Should Have For Wellness 🎬 About Time🎵 The Show Must Go On — Bruno MajorWhether you’re a teacher, an expat, or someone who just loves cozy, real-life conversations - welcome to our day.Subscribe for weekly episodes!Follow us on IG and TikTok: @unmarked.pod Send us your email: [email protected] us on YouTube: @UnmarkedPodcast

  19. 3

    🎙️Episode 3 — Icks

    In this episode, we dive into the hilarious, slightly dramatic, totally relatable world of ICKS.From classroom habits that live rent-free in our minds, to everyday life icks - this is the lightest and most laughter-filled episode so far.Homework🎵 Find My Way - Gabe Dixon🎬 How to lose a guy in 10 days📖 Icks from the strangers - https://shorturl.at/Y2AWf Follow us on Instagram and TikTok @unmarked.pod Watch on YouTube UnmarkedPodcast Send us an email to [email protected] Don’t forget to follow and rate us ⭐

  20. 2

    🎙️ Episode 2 — Teaching Abroad, Living in Between

    What does it really mean to live in-between? Between countries, classrooms, cultures — and constantly redefining the idea of “home”?In this episode, we talk about what international teaching actually feels like — beyond the glossy brochures and Pinterest classroom ideas. From classroom stories to loneliness, culture shock, and deep friendships, we unpack it all.This week’s homework:📖 Brooklyn — Colm Tóibín🎬 Emily in Paris (but with real life expectations)🎵 Home — Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic ZerosMaybe home isn’t a place. Maybe it’s something we’re building as we go.Follow the podcast on Instagram and TikTok @unmarked.pod or you can send us an email at [email protected] You can watch the episode on YouTube — https://www.youtube.com/@UnmarkedPodcast Please leave us a 5-star review!

  21. 1

    🎙️ Episode 1 – Marking Life Lessons

    Welcome to Unmarked — a podcast by Nika and Carol, two international teachers talking about school, life, and everything in between.In our first episode, we’re marking something a little different — the lessons life has taught us by 25 and 28. From classroom chaos and cultural shocks to learning patience, boundaries, and self-trust, we reflect on what’s shaped us as teachers and humans.Each episode ends with a little homework— something to listen to, watch, or read, then share your thoughts with us!Here’s this week’s homework:Listen to - Two Oruguitas by Sebastián YatraWatch - The Orchestra - by Mikey HillRead - your pick! Tell us in the commentsFollow us on Instagram and TikTok @unmarked.podWatch on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@UnmarkedPodcastSend us email to [email protected]’t forget to follow and rate us ⭐

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

Life doesn’t come with a grading rubric. Unmarked is an open conversation between two international teachers figuring out life, love, and purpose far from home. No edits, no filters!

HOSTED BY

Nika and Carol

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