Shows
Diesel and Clooney Unpack the WorldLife Lessons with Doreen CumberfordEpisode 45: Chris and Jerry plumb the capacious depths of wisdom, warmth, and insight that are Doreen Cumberford (of the Nomadic Diaries Podcast). Doreen's so accomodating, she interviewed us on our own podcast! We also get a sneak peek at what's brewing in her forthcoming new book! Check out Doreen's marvelous podcast: Nomadic DiariesOr find … Continue reading Life Lessons with Doreen Cumberford2025-06-2149 min
Nomadic Diaries: Mastering Global TransitionsLiving Between Worlds: The Privileges and Losses of Global ChildhoodsIn this episode, Doreen Cumberford welcomes welcomes Mathieu Gagnon, an Adult Third Culture Kid (ATCK) and Professor of Psychology at the Royal Military College in Kingston, Ontario specializing in the emotional experiences of third culture kids (TCKs), expats, and people in global transitions.Mathieu's international upbringing as the son of a Canadian diplomat took him from Paris to Morocco, the Ivory Coast, Haiti, Switzerland, and back to Canada. Together, they dive deep into the emotional landscape of third culture kids (TCKs): from the privileges and the hidden losses, to the impacts of nostalgia and...2025-06-1040 min
Nomadic Diaries: Mastering Global TransitionsThirty Before Thirty: A Passport to AdventureEpisode Summary: In this insightful episode of Nomadic Diaries, Doreen sits down with Autumn Carolyn—world traveler, writer, and author of Traveling in Wonder—to talk about the realities of moving abroad, the impact of travel on our senses, the power of reflection, and the process of returning home after years overseas.Autumn shares heartfelt stories from her time living in England and traveling to 30 countries before turning 30, as well as her experience with reverse culture shock and rediscovering a sense of home in Minnesota.Key Highlights:Common Misconceptions Abou...2025-06-0536 min
Nomadic Diaries: Mastering Global TransitionsUnpacking Transitions: Coaching for Expats & the Globally MobileI sat down with Linda Mueller, who was a previous Co-Host for the Re-Entry Series. Linda is an experienced ExpatPartnerCoach and we dived into the benefits of coaching for people who live in the international and global communities.Together, we explored what it really means to thrive as a global nomad, especially as an accompanying partner. We cover everything from wrestling with issues of purpose and identity to maintaining relationships and overcoming guilt. Linda shares her hard-earned wisdom and actionable tips for navigating life across borders through coaching.Key Topics Covered:Why High-Achievers N...2025-05-2035 min
Nomadic Diaries: Mastering Global TransitionsTCKs and Passport Childhoods: Gifts & Challenges of Growing Up GloballyIn this episode of Nomadic Diaries, Doreen Cumberford sits down with Tanya Crossman, a leading expert on Third Culture Kids (TCKs) whose personal experiences and professional work have made her a trusted voice in the global mobility community.Tanya's Third Culture JourneyTanya Crossman's journey as a TCK began with moves between Australia and the United States during her childhood, following her father's career path. Her cross-cultural experiences deepened significantly when she later spent 13 years living and working in China. These formative experiences across different continents gave her unique insights into the TCK...2025-05-0725 min
Nomadic Diaries: Mastering Global TransitionsCompound to Camera: From Aramco Kid to Saudi Film Pioneer Todd NimmsTodd's Background:Todd was born in Saudi Arabia. His father worked for Aramco. He moved between Saudi and the US several times during his childhood.Experienced multiple evacuations due to geopolitical events like the Gulf War.Nomad and Expat Life:Todd is a third culture kid with experience living in various places, including Australia for study and Hollywood for work.Created "Home: The Aramco Brats Story," a film about the expatriate experience in Saudi Arabia.Filmmaking Journey:The film was the first publicly screened movie in Saudi Arabia in 30 years.Examined the expatriate experience...2025-05-0651 min
Nomadic Diaries: Mastering Global TransitionsSacred Luggage: Carrying Your Faith Across Borders - Marilyn GardnerIn this engaging episode of "Nomadic Diaries," host Doreen Cumberford sits down with Marilyn Gardner—a seasoned author and expat who has spent her life living across multiple countries. They dive into the essence of rituals and faith and how these elements intertwine with the nomadic lifestyle. Marilyn shares vivid memories from her childhood in Pakistan and discusses how these early experiences shaped her spiritual journey and everyday rituals.Key Topics CoveredIntroduction to Marilyn Gardner: Doreen highlights Marilyn's extensive experience as an expat and repatriator, noting her impactful writing and authentic jou...2025-04-2943 min
Nomadic Diaries: Mastering Global TransitionsThink East While Living West - Bridging CulturesIn this episode of Nomadic Diaries, Doreen interviews Kirtika van Hunen-Malla who shares her experiences of living across cultures and how Eastern philosophies have shaped her understanding of international living. Here are some key highlights from their conversation:Background & Cross-Cultural Upbringing:Kirtika grew up with a unique blend of Indian and Nepali cultures, which provided her with a rich cultural perspective even before moving to the West.Eastern Philosophical Influence:Kirtika discusses how the Eastern approach to life, focusing on acceptance and adaptability, has helped her navigate different cultural environments with less conflict.I...2025-04-2336 min
Nomadic Diaries: Mastering Global TransitionsUnpacking Your Emotional Suitcase: Therapy for the Globally MobileIn this episode, host Doreen Cumberford chats with Dr. Sally McGregor, a licensed clinical psychologist and adult third culture kid, about the mental health challenges faced by expatriates and globally mobile individuals. Dr. McGregor is the founder of Wanderwell Psychology, focusing on the well-being of expatriates, third culture kids, global nomads, and more. They discuss the unique psychological pressures of expat life, the importance of finding the right psychotherapist, and the difference between therapy and coaching. They also explore how cultural identity affects mental health and the significance of maintaining meaningful relationships.The conversation highlights the s...2025-04-0859 min
Nomadic Diaries: Mastering Global TransitionsSomething A Little Different - International Women's VoicesNomadic Diaries Episode: International Women's Day SpecialHost: Doreen CumberfordIn this episode, we have combined the voices of six women who I interviewed over the last year. Each one is unique, works in international and intercultural situations, and has at least one golden nugget of wisdom to contribute to our lifestyles.Meet:Iliana Jankova: Moved from Hungary to the US with $200. Iliana's story embodies courage as she has navigated several countries and continents solo. https://www.nomadicdiariespodcast.com/moving-abroad-with-200-ilianas-brave-leap/Melissa Hahn: Is a...2025-03-0824 min
Nomadic Diaries: Mastering Global TransitionsBridging Hearts and MindsIn this episode of Nomadic Diaries, host Doreen Cumberford sits down with cross-cultural communication expert Kathy Ellis to explore the intricate world of cultural adaptation and repatriation. From her humble beginnings in small-town Midwest America to living in six different countries and visiting over 40, Kathy shares her fascinating journey of becoming a global citizen and helping others bridge cultural divides.Throughout the conversation, Kathy delves into the complexities of developing a cross-cultural mindset, emphasizing that true cultural understanding goes far deeper than simply recognizing surface-level differences. She discusses the emotional challenges of cultural adaptation, particularly f...2025-02-1236 min
Nomadic Diaries: Mastering Global TransitionsMoving From Comfort Zones to Superpowers:Join Doreen Cumberford, the host for a delightful conversation with Margaret Ghielmetti, author of "Brave(ish)," who reveals how living abroad transformed her life from the inside out. Margaret shares her refreshingly honest take on finding courage in unexpected places and building what she playfully calls "superpowers" through facing fears head-on.In this episode, you'll discover:Why being "brave-ish" (rather than perfectly brave) leads to authentic growthHow living in different cultures sparked Margaret's deepest personal changesPractical, courage-building techniques anyone can use, regardless of geographyThe surprising connection between vulnerability and strengthMargaret's storytelling...2025-02-1133 minNomadic Diaries: Mastering Global TransitionsBuilding Better Insurance For Living Abroad - Andrew JerniganWhat happens when a 13-year-old in Malawi needs emergency medical evacuation, but their insurance has just expired? Andrew Jernigan shares the dramatic story and reveals how proper international insurance can be the difference between life and death.In this episode of Nomadic Diaries, Doreen sits down with Andrew Jernigan, CEO of Insured Nomads, to unravel the complexities of international insurance for global citizens. Andrew shares compelling narratives that shaped his mission, including the tragic story of a family in Malawi who lost their father to malaria due to lack of insurance, and a young digital n...2025-02-0838 minNomadic Diaries: Mastering Global TransitionsRe-Entry Series: From Pinterest to Purpose: Your Guide to Powerful Vision BoardsImagine unlocking the power of your subconscious to achieve your dreams. In this episode of Nomadic Diaries, host Doreen Cumberford introduces us to the life-changing tool of vision boards, detailing how they can help expats and nomads achieve their goals through visualization and intentionality. Whether you are departing or arriving, an expat, nomad or repat vision boards can be a worthy tool. Enhanced Focus through Visual Tools: Vision boards aren't just pretty collages. They tap into our brain's natural wiring, acting as a GPS for our dreams by leveraging the Reticulating Activating System (RAS). The...2025-01-3014 minNomadic Diaries: Mastering Global TransitionsMoving Abroad With $200: Iliana's Brave LeapIn this episode host Doreen Cumberford interviews Iliana Genkova, who shares her remarkable journey from Bulgaria to building a life across multiple continents. Starting with just $200 in her pocket, Iliana moved to the United States in 1999, marking the beginning of her global adventures. Her story demonstrates how sometimes the best plans are a mix of preparation and embracing the unknown.After securing U.S. citizenship, Iliana's journey took her to the UK, where she learned valuable lessons about expectations versus reality. Despite having what looked perfect on paper - a prestigious job with diplomatic advantages - she...2025-01-2129 minNomadic Diaries: Mastering Global TransitionsThe Story Behind This Podcast....Ever wondered how globe-trotting lifestyles are transforming in our post-pandemic world? In this captivating episode of "Nomadic Diaries," guest Sylvia Thiesen interviews host Doreen Cumberford, to find out why Nomadic Diaries exists. The Importance of Belonging and ConnectionOne of the central themes of the podcast is the importance of connection and belonging. In today's digital age, this issue is even more pressing, especially for older generations who may face loneliness after returning from abroad. The podcast aims to explore these themes further, with future episodes focusing on crossing cultures, building...2024-12-1048 minNomadic Diaries: Mastering Global TransitionsRebecca Eichler - How Expats Spark Real-World Impact - Las AbogadasHosts: Doreen and Sharon Fields Special Guest: Rebecca EichlerEpisode Summary:Welcome to another compelling episode of Nomadic Diaries! In this episode, hosts Doreen and Sharon Fields are joined by the remarkable Rebecca Eichler, an international human rights advocate and the star of the acclaimed documentary Las Abogadas: Attorneys on the Front Lines of the Migrant Crisis.Key Takeaways:Rebecca’s Journey to Mexico: Rebecca shares her and her family’s transformative journey from the United States to Panama in a vin...2024-12-0321 min
Nomadic Diaries: Mastering Global TransitionsRe-Entry Series 30: Reflections and FarewellsWe hope that these 30 podcasts have been both useful and informative!In this final episode of Nomadic Diaries' Reentry Series, hosts Doreen Cumberford and Linda Mueller reflect on 30 days of podcasts that included stories, themes, and challenges faced during the journey of returning to one's passport country.The series centered on personal experiences, expert tips, and actionable advice aimed at transforming repatriation into a positive and generative phase of life. The question at the heart of this series is "what if it were possible to make this the best time of our lives"? Whe...2024-11-3023 min
Nomadic Diaries: Mastering Global TransitionsRE Series 28: Repatriation & Family Helen EllisHave you ever felt the rush of joy upon returning home from a long journey, only to be blindsided by the emotional and logistical challenges that follow? In this short episode of Nomadic Diaries' ReEntry Series, host Doreen Cumberford sits down with Helen Ellis, an expert in long-distance grandparenting relationships, to uncover the practical and emotional intricacies of repatriation. Helen shares heartwarming and pragmatic strategies to help expats navigate their return with grace, blending their old lives with their global experiences. Tune in to learn how to make your reentry as smooth and enriching as po...2024-11-2812 min
Nomadic Diaries: Mastering Global TransitionsRe-Entry Series 27: Reading From Arriving WellEver felt the pull of the world that lies beyond your doorstep? In this episode of Nomadic Diaries, the Re-Entry Series host Doreen Cumberford reads the heartwarming and insightful story of Deirdre K. Razzaque, exploring her journey of identity and belonging after living abroad. Through her experiences in diverse cultures, from Costa Rica to Vermont, Deirdre shares the continuous and often challenging process of finding home within oneself. Arriving Well is a compilation of five raw, compelling, autobiographical stories about re-entry. Each of the authors experienced the roller-coaster ride of re-entry to their hom...2024-11-2719 min
Nomadic Diaries: Mastering Global TransitionsRe-Entry Series 26: Repatriation RealitiesImagine transitioning from the vibrant expat life in California to the complex and challenging reality of returning to London? That’s the journey Polly Collingridge from the Cultural Intelligence Centre shared with Doreen Cumberford and Linda Mueller on this episode of Nomadic Diaries.Polly discusses the cultural shifts, reverse culture shock, and the intricate emotional landscape faced during repatriation, alongside insights from academic research on cultural identity and expat adaptations. Join us to delve into the trials and triumphs of expatriation and repatriation, and discover how you can use these lessons to navigate your...2024-11-2648 min
Nomadic Diaries: Mastering Global TransitionsRe-Entry Series 25 : LandingsFeeling unsteady as you transition back to your home country?In this episode of Nomadic Diaries, host Doreen Cumberford and co-host Linda Mueller delve into the complexities of repatriation, exploring the emotional and logistical challenges through the metaphor of lily pads. Repatriation isn't just about physically returning home. It's a multifaceted process that involves emotional, psychological, and logistical shifts. The lily pad analogy perfectly captures how these small steps can lead to significant changes.Doreen and Linda share real-life experiences and insights on how to navigate reverse culture shock, redefine relationships, and maintain a...2024-11-2526 min
Nomadic Diaries: Mastering Global TransitionsRe-Entry Series. 24: Inspiration OutdoorsHave you ever used nature, the outdoors, or your environment to inspire or ground yourself during repatriation?In this episode of Nomadic Diaries, the Re-Entry Series, host Doreen Cumberford and co-host Linda Mueller seek to provide encouragement to go outdoors, to breathe in nature and to ground oneself during the repatriation journey.Here at Nomadic Diaries we love to interview expat and cross-cultural authors, so continue to tune in to discover wisdom and lessons that create a more inspired and fulfilling repatriation!Listen to the next episode for more content on repatriation:Leave a...2024-11-2418 min
Nomadic Diaries: Mastering Global TransitionsRe-Entry Series 23: Ups and Downs of RepatriationFeeling adrift or untethered after moving back home? In this episode of Nomadic Diaries, our host Doreen Cumberford speaks with guest Camilla Quintana about the emotional and practical challenges of repatriation while sharing her personal stories of transition and adaptation. Camilla offers insights on maintaining connections and shifting your focus to commonalities, and offers valuable advice for making your return a smoother, more fulfilling experience. Join us to learn how to leverage these lessons and transform your repatriation journey into an opportunity for growth and rediscovery. Camilla shared her personal journey of moving back...2024-11-2313 min
Nomadic Diaries: Mastering Global TransitionsRE Series 22: Repatriation SymptomsHave you ever experienced what you suspected might be symptoms of repatriaion?In this episode, hosts Doreen Cumberford and Linda Mueller discuss some of the more light-hearted ways and situations where returnees can sometimes feel caught between multiple cultural identities, struggling to reconcile their international experiences with their home environment.The psychological impact of repatriation can often include unexpected grief, a sense of loss, and difficulty communicating the depth of their transformative experiences. Repats frequently experience reverse culture shock, feeling alienated in a place that should feel familiar, and grappling with a deep sense of...2024-11-2217 min
Nomadic Diaries: Mastering Global TransitionsRe-Entry Series 21: Nomads RepatriatingWhat do digital nomads have to consider when returning back home after enjoying thrilling adventures, exciting work projects and all that freedom?In this episode of Nomadic Diaries, host Doreen Cumberford welcomes Amy Suto, a seasoned traveler and writer, to share insights from her eight-month journey across South Korea, Japan, Taiwan, and Singapore, and discuss how her travels inspired her latest book "Nomad Detective." Amy provides tips on avoiding digital nomad burnout, planning ahead for better deals, and reassessing one's travel goals annually. Tune in to discover how you, too, can harness the power of b...2024-11-2105 min
Nomadic Diaries: Mastering Global TransitionsRe-Entry Series 20: Reading from Arriving WellCan you imagine uprooting your life multiple times, weaving through diverse cultural landscapes, and then finding your way back to a semblance of "home"?. In this episode of Nomadic Diaries, host Doreen Cumberford read from Michael Pollock's poignant narrative, "Bridges and Anchors," which is a chapter from the book Arriving Well. As Michael recounts his dynamic journey from New York to Kenya, China, and back to the United States, he shares the intricate challenges and enriching experiences of a third culture kid and adult.Arriving Well is a compilation of five raw, compelling, autobiographical stories a...2024-11-2022 min
Nomadic Diaries: Mastering Global TransitionsRe-Entry Series 19: Coming Home Is Hard Craig StortiCan you magine stepping back into your homeland only to feel like a stranger in a once-familiar place?In this episode of Nomadic Diaries, hosts Doreen Cumberford & Linda Mueller together with author and repatriation expert Craig Storti, examine the intricate world of repatriation, unpacking the emotional, social, and cultural challenges that come with a returning home after long stints abroad. From the unexpected struggles of returning home to the emotional impact of farewells, Craig's insights were truly invaluable. If you've ever lived abroad or plan to, you can't miss this episode! Explore how th...2024-11-1934 min
Nomadic Diaries: Mastering Global TransitionsRe-Entry Series 18: FarewellsHave you ever wondered how to truly find closure when saying goodbye to a place you've called home? In this episode of Nomadic Diaries, the Re-Entry Series, titled Farewells, hosts Doreen Cumberford and Linda Mueller delve into the emotional intricacies of farewells and the impact they have on our repatriation journey. From personal anecdotes to expert tips on creating meaningful rituals, they explore how farewells can be empowering rather than distressing. Tune in to discover how you can transform painful goodbyes into hopeful farewells and take actionable steps to make your own transitions smoother and mo...2024-11-1824 min
Nomadic Diaries: Mastering Global TransitionsRe-Entry Series 17: Inspiration - MusicHave you ever felt like you needed some choices and sources of inspiration amidst a repatriation journey?In this episode of Nomadic Diaries, the Re-Entry Series, host Doreen Cumberford and co-host Linda Mueller seek to provide ideas of where to find that lightbulb of inspiration that will propel you to take the very next ideal step. Linda shares her insights into the topic of music, including how your favorite pieces of music can inspire your journey of repatriation, together with reminders to listen and engage all the senses. Here at Nomadic Diaries we lo...2024-11-1710 min
Nomadic Diaries: Mastering Global TransitionsRe-Entry Series 16: Repatriation & IdentityWhat sort of hidden grief and identity struggles can plague Third Culture Kids and expats when 'going home' again?"In this episode of Nomadic Diaries, the Re-Entry Series, host Doreen Cumberford a looks into the emotional and psychological challenges faced by Third Culture Kids (TCKs) when returning to their passport countries. They interviewed the brilliant Dr. Rachel Cason, a leading TCK therapist and author of "Incredible Lives and the Courage to Live Them". Together, they explore issues like identity loss, grief, and the struggle for belonging, while also providing practical advice for fostering curiosity and e...2024-11-1624 min
Nomadic Diaries: Mastering Global TransitionsRe-Entry Series 15: Reading from Life in the Camel LaneWhat does it take to prepare oneself for repatriation?In this episode of Nomadic Diaries, the Re-Entry Series, Doreen Cumberford reads from the book she authored, Life in the Camel Lane: Embrace the Adventure. This story highlights the preparation for a repatriation that seemed imminent but happened many months later. Each person's re-entry experience is unique and unrepeatable. Life in the Camel Lane is a comprehensive book written about living in Saudi Arabia and the lessons of tolerance, graciousness and inspiration that sojourn delivered.Want to dive deeper into the repatriation jo...2024-11-1523 min
Nomadic Diaries: Mastering Global TransitionsRE Series 12: Sudden RepatriationCan you imagine repatriating in an emergency? Welcome to Nomadic Diaries, the Re-Entry Series where we explore the journey of repatriation back home. In our latest episode, Doreen Cumberford and Linda Mueller chat with Joel David Bond, a true explorer who's spent 20 years living on multiple continents. We plunged into the story of his abrupt return to the U.S. after 20 years abroad,Joel offered insights into managing anxiety, using technology for smooth transitions, and fostering a mindset of calculated optimism. From inventory apps to personal rituals of closure, Joel’s experience serves as both a p...2024-11-1252 min
Nomadic Diaries: Mastering Global TransitionsRe-Entry Series 11: LogisticsHave you ever felt overwhelmed by the planning and logistics of moving back home? In today's episode of the Re-Entry Series, Doreen Cumberford and Linda Mueller dive deep into the logistics of repatriation on Nomadic Diaries. They share invaluable tips on everything from efficient packing to handling crucial documentation and pet transport.One key to a satisfying repatriation lies in managing the logistics effectively. When the practical details are well-managed, you can focus on the deeper aspects of this life-changing transition. Whether you've moved internationally before or are planning your first overseas return, this episode i...2024-11-1127 min
Nomadic Diaries: Mastering Global TransitionsRe-Entry Series 10: Inspiration - The Pivot YearDo you ever feel like the invisible side of you needs some sources of inspiration during the potential chaos of repatriating back home?In this episode of Nomadic Diaries, host Doreen Cumberford and co-host Linda Mueller dive into the invisible aspects of repatriation. Linda shares her insights into a book called The Pivot Year, 365 Days to Become the Person You Truly Want to Be by Brianna Weist. Here at Nomadic Diaries we love to interview expat and cross-cultural authors, so continue to tune in to discover wisdom and lessons that create a more inspired and f...2024-11-1009 min
Nomadic Diaries: Mastering Global TransitionsRE Series 9: From Familiarity to ForeignHave you experienced the rollercoaster of crossing borders, building a life overseas only to do so in reverse? In this episode of Nomadic Diaries, the Re-Entry Series, host Doreen Cumberford plunges into the challenges and triumphs of repatriation. In this episode, we had an eye-opening conversation with Chris O'Shaughnessy who is a TCK and InterCultural trainer, about the complexities of this mighty transition.From treating your home country as foreign, to using humor and humility, Chris shares indispensable advice for seamless transitions. Whether you're a third culture kid or an adult navigating your next chapter c...2024-11-0914 min
Nomadic Diaries: Mastering Global TransitionsRe-Entry Series 8: Hidden Grief - Dr. Sally McGregorHow do you navigate the complex journey of grieving an old life while building a new one?In today's episode of Nomadic Diaries, the Re-Entry Series, we look into the often overlooked topic of grief during repatriation. Doreen and Linda interviewed Dr. Sally McGregor, cross-cultural therapist, who shared invaluable insights on dealing with hidden grief, ambiguous loss, and the emotional journey faced by expats and Third Culture Kids. We learned about the power of being present, finding culturally competent therapists, and embracing our global experiences. Some of the gems included not forgetting that your grief i...2024-11-0835 min
Nomadic Diaries: Mastering Global TransitionsRe-Entry Series 5: The Emotional Toll of RepatriationHave you ever grappled with the upheaval of moving countries and then moving back? In this episode of Nomadic Diaries, the Re-Entry Series, hosts Doreen Cumberford and Linda Mueller engage with cross-cultural coach Jerry Jones to delve into the emotional and psychological effects of repatriation.Jerry shares his compelling personal experiences transitioning from China back to the United States, highlighting how seemingly minor lifestyle disruptions can accumulate into significant emotional challenges. Jerry observed that "the transitions were emotionally taxing, leading to a lack of self-awareness about their impact on mental health". We sense th...2024-11-0538 min