Shows
Balkan Sis38 Weeks Pregnant & Ready For New Beginnings | 38 Tjedana Trudna i Spremna Za Nove PočetkeIn this episode of Balkan Sis, I dive into a whirlwind of personal updates and reflections. I’m 38 weeks pregnant and preparing for a home birth, while also navigating changes in my life and home. I discuss:
- The journey of being so close to welcoming a new baby.
- The process of changing my son’s school and renovating our home.
- The profound experience of losing my aunt at 63 and writing her eulogy.
- The contrast between life and death and the shared human experience.
...
2024-09-1833 min
Balkan SisBalkanina Unplugged Pt.2 : Life, Love, Therapy, and CreativityWelcome to Balkanina Unplugged: Life, Love, Therapy, and Creativity (Part 2)!
Hey there, friend! Join us for some real talk and genuine connections. In our cozy corner of the internet, we're diving deep into the stuff that matters – life, love, therapy, and creativity.
We're not holding back. We're covering everything from sharing our experiences of breaking those old family habits to navigating the beautiful chaos of motherhood, fashion, and the digital creator life.
But this isn't just about us. It's about you too. We're here to share heartfelt stories, have some honest chats, and em...
2024-05-2631 min
Balkan SisBalkanina Unplugged Pt.1 : Life, Love, Therapy, and CreativityWelcome to Balkanina Unplugged: Life, Love, Therapy, and Creativity (Part 1)!
Hey there, friend! Join us for some real talk and genuine connections. In our cozy corner of the internet, we're diving deep into the stuff that matters – life, love, therapy, and creativity.
We're not holding back. We're covering everything from sharing our experiences of breaking those old family habits to navigating the beautiful chaos of motherhood, fashion, and the digital creator life.
But this isn't just about us. It's about you too. We're here to share heartfelt stories, have some honest chats, and em...
2024-05-2553 minBalkan SisSUPRISE! Catch-Up Episode: Where Am I Now & What to Do When You Feel StuckEpisode Title: SUPRISE! Catch-Up Episode: Where Am I Now & What to Do When You Feel Stuck
In this episode, I have some exciting news to share - tune in to find out if it's a boy or a girl! But that's not all; I'll be catching you up on everything that's been happening lately in my life. From personal updates to professional endeavors, we're diving deep into it all.
Feeling stuck sucks, right? Don't worry; I've got your back. I'll be sharing my insights on navigating those moments when you feel like you're going nowhere...
2024-05-0146 min
Balkan SisBONUS EPISODE: Baba's Journey of Love, Resilience, and Cultural Fusion Through Food, Music, Fashion, and Giving Back!Welcome to a special bonus episode of Balkan Sis! In this episode, we have the pleasure of chatting with the fabulous Balkan baba who brought her love and culture to Australia many years ago. Join us as we delve into her journey, dedicated to the memory of her late husband Kojo, and celebrate overcoming hardships with a virtual shot of rakija.
We explore the spiritual messages from loved ones who have passed away and the importance of finding purpose and giving back to the community. From parenting and assimilating to Aussie culture to donning...
2024-03-0628 min
Balkan SisRolling Forward: The Burek on Wheels Story | Priča o Bureku Na TočkovimaJoin us for an inspiring conversation with Lepa, the unstoppable force behind Burek on Wheels, a beloved family-run business. Alongside her mother, affectionately known as Baba, Lepa shares her journey from the depths of corporate disillusionment to the heights of entrepreneurial success. We delve into Lepa's personal experience of grief following the passing of her father, tracing her path from mourning to healing and resilience.
In this episode, we explore the myriad obstacles and triumphs inherent in running a small family business, from navigating the complexities of entrepreneurship to balancing familial dynamics. Through it all, Lepa's unwavering commitment to her...
2024-02-2756 min
Balkan Sis2023 in Review: The Good, the Bad, and the Unforgettable on Balkan SisTitle: Balkan Sis Recap 2023: A Journey Through the Unexpected
Hey there, my wonderful Balkan Sis family! As we wrap up the wild ride that was 2023, I'm sitting down to chat about it all—the highs, the lows, and everything in between.
**In Our Household:**
From the daily adventures in our home to the unexpected twists that kept us on our toes, our family story in 2023 is one for the books. Join me as we laugh, cry, and reminisce about the moments that defined our year.
2023-12-3127 min
Balkan SisBalkan Sis Speaks: I Guest Star on 'An Englishman in the Balkans' - Forced Out, a story of surviving conflict | Balkan Sis Govori:Gostujuća Zvijezda na 'Englez u Balkanu'-priča o preživljavanju sukobaHey, lovely listeners, and welcome back to another episode of Balkan Sis. I'm your host, Ivana, and today is a special episode, but not in the way you might expect. Today, I'm stepping out from behind the mic and into the guest seat on another fantastic podcast.
Meeting David Pejčinović-Bailey:
That's right, I had the incredible opportunity to be a guest on David Pejčinović-Bailey's podcast, "An Englishman in the Balkans." I mean, can we talk about David hyphenating his wife's last name, Pejcinovic, to his own? I immediately knew this guy was...
2023-11-061h 23
Balkan SisLaura Marin's Journey: From Galicia to the Balkans, Singing with Halid Bešlić, and Embracing Global DreamsWelcome to a special episode of Balkan Sis, where we celebrate talent, resilience, and the power of faith. In today's episode, we have the privilege of speaking with Laura Marin, a remarkable Galician singer, online sensation, and an emerging star in the Balkan music scene. With nearly 400,000 followers across YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok, Laura has captured the hearts of the diaspora and Balkan music enthusiasts worldwide.
*Defying Expectations and Naysayers
Laura's journey to stardom hasn't been without its challenges. She faced her fair share of naysayers and negative influences along the way. Despite the obstacles...
2023-10-261h 29
Balkan SisPunica, Promaja, i Papuče: Cody McLain Brown, American Author, Lecturer, and Comedian, on Chasing a Croatian Girl | Cody McLain Brown, američki autor, predavač i komičarIn this episode of "Balkan Sis," we sit down with Cody McLain Brown, a multi-talented author, comedian, lecturer, and a man led by his heart on an extraordinary journey. Cody, the author of two bestselling books, including "Chasing a Croatian Girl," shares his unique insights. With a background in Political Science and as a professor at the University of Zagreb, he bridges cultural gaps between Croatia and America with humour and wisdom.
We explore the essence of his book, "Chasing a Croatian Girl," a hilarious tale of an American man falling in love with...
2023-10-111h 08
Balkan Sis15 Years of Love & Wisdom: Unveiling the Essence of Relationships with My Husband | 15 godina ljubavi i mudrosti: Otkrivanje biti u vezi s mojim suprugomWelcome to Balkan Sis - a heartfelt podcast where we share the most intimate details of our journey together as a couple. In this special episode, "15 Years, 15 Lessons," we delve deep into the essence of being in a relationship, as we celebrate the milestones and lessons that have shaped our love over the past decade and a half.
Join us as we take you on a candid and heartwarming exploration of the 15 things that have profoundly changed and bettered our relationship. From the challenges we faced to the triumphs we celebrated, we open up about how each...
2023-07-2349 min
Balkan SisPt. 2: Jelena Healing Journey - From War Nurse to Psychic Healer | Dio 2: Jelenina Transformacija - Od Ratne Bolničarke do Duhovne IscjeliteljiceJoin us on a deeply moving and enlightening journey with our guest,
Jelena Vukalovic, in this captivating two-part episode of Balkan Sis.
Jelena is not only an Intuitive Alchemist and Healer Coach but also a
remarkable individual with an incredible life story to share.
As a nurse during the turbulent times of the former Yugoslav war,
Jelena worked tirelessly amidst unimaginable challenges: no electricity,
limited medicine, and scarcity of food. She opens up about her
experiences during those tumultuous years, shedding light on the
resilience and determination that carried her through those dark times.
But...
2023-07-011h 00
Balkan SisPt. 1: Jelena Healing Journey - From War Nurse to Psychic Healer | Dio 1: Jelenina Transformacija - Od Ratne Bolničarke do Duhovne IscjeliteljiceJoin us on a deeply moving and enlightening journey with our guest, Jelena Vukalovic, in this captivating two-part episode of Balkan Sis. Jelena is not only an Intuitive Alchemist and Healer Coach but also a remarkable individual with an incredible life story to share.
As a nurse during the turbulent times of the former Yugoslav war, Jelena worked tirelessly amidst unimaginable challenges: no electricity, limited medicine, and scarcity of food. She opens up about her experiences during those tumultuous years, shedding light on the resilience and determination that carried her through those dark times.
But...
2023-06-2858 min
Balkan SisNikolina's Art of Motherhood: Weaving Creativity, Chaos, and Connection | Nikolinina Umjetnost Majčinstva: Priče o Kreativnosti, Kaosu i PovezanostiIn this episode, I had the pleasure of a delightful conversation with Nikolina Koevska Karoufeh, a multifaceted media producer, presenter, author, and mother of two. Nikolina graciously shared her profound insights into Balkan parenting culture, drawing from her rich Macedonian heritage. We delved into her remarkable journey, where she adeptly navigates the challenges of raising children while passionately pursuing her various talents and interests.
Throughout our discussion, we explored essential topics, such as the value of fostering creativity in our children, the common but often overwhelming feeling of mom's guilt, the complexities of managing...
2023-03-3158 min
Balkan SisHumanitarian & Young Entrepreneur Jelena Šutić - Inspiring Change | Humanitarka i Mlada Poduzetnica Jelena Šutić - Inspiracija za PromjeneIn this episode, we are joined by Jelena Šutić, a young entrepreneur and founder of the "Pomozi Mojoj Nevjeri" foundation. Jelena shares her inspiring journey and her impressive humanitarian work. We delve into her life in Hercegovina, the challenges faced in Bosnia and Hercegovina, and her dedication to helping others.
Jelena's foundation has raised thousands of dollars and built a house from scratch for those in need. Our conversation is filled with authenticity and emotional insights. We discuss the mindset of burnout and navigating corrupt systems in the Balkans, emphasizing resilience and the power of spreading love an...
2023-03-201h 44
Balkan SisCelebrating International Women's Day and a Full Circle Moment | Proslava Međunarodnog Dana Žena i Poseban TrenutakWhat an incredible week it has been! Happy International Women's Day to all you beautiful ladies, near and far. In today's episode, I take the solo flight and share the heartfelt speech that I had the privilege of presenting at the Multicultural Families Organization on the stunning Gold Coast, Australia.
This was a day filled with immense emotion and boundless energy, and to make it even more special, my beautiful mama was there, sitting proudly in the front row, showing her unwavering support. The preparation for this speech involved days and hours of heartfelt dedication, and when...
2023-03-0828 min
Balkan SisRelationships and Boundaries - Part 2 with Psychologist Luciana Franicevic | Otkrivanje Zdravih Odnosa i Granica - Dio 2 s Psihologinjom Lucianom FranicevicExploring Relationships and Boundaries with Psychologist Luciana Franicevic - Part 2
In this second part of our conversation with Luciana Franicevic, a highly qualified psychologist specializing in relationships and boundaries, we delve deeper into the intriguing world of human connections. We discuss our personal journey, how we crossed paths, and what motivated Luciana to pursue her career, highlighting her passion for psychology.
Our discussion explores various aspects of relationships, including friendships and romantic connections. We delve into the complexity of expectations, both self-imposed and externally influenced, shedding light on the intricacies of human interactions and the...
2023-03-031h 01
Balkan SisRelationships and Boundaries with Psychologist Luciana Franicevic - Part 1 Otkrivanje Zdravih Odnosa i Granica s Psihologinjom Lucianom Franicević - Dio 1Exploring Relationships and Boundaries with Psychologist Luciana Franicevic**
In this episode, we have the privilege of diving deep into the world of relationships and boundaries with the highly qualified psychologist, Luciana Franicevic. Luciana's expertise in these areas is truly remarkable, and I'm excited to share our insightful conversation with you.
We begin by delving into our personal connection, sharing how Luciana and I first crossed paths, and what inspired her to pursue a career in this field. Our discussion takes us on a journey through various aspects of relationships, covering friendships, romantic connections, and the...
2023-03-031h 03Balkan Sis35 Life Lessons from 35 Years | 35 Životnih Nauka iz 35 GodinaHAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME! YAY! 🎂**
35 never felt so amazing, and I truly believe that February is the new January 😂. After emerging from a transformative healing season, I'm taking a moment to celebrate and share the top 35 things I've learned in 35 years. Life is an ongoing journey, and some of these lessons are still a work in progress. I hope you find inspiration and wisdom in the insights I'm sharing today. ✨
Please let me know which of these insights resonated with you 🥳, and connect with me over on Instagram at @ivanastrbacalfonso. Your heartfelt birthday messages mean the world t...
2023-02-0148 min
Balkan SisEmpowering 10-Minute Forgiveness Meditation The Yogini | Osnažujuća 10-Minutna Meditacija Oprosta s Helen Selmeczy, The YoginiAs a special gift to all my listeners around the world, I believe that now, more than ever, our region and its people need safe spaces and profound healing, even as many years have passed since the war. Helen has generously shared a ten-minute forgiveness meditation, which can be applied to any aspect of your life, whether personal or professional. I genuinely hope it serves you as much as it has served me. Let this be your small stepping stone towards a calmer and more peaceful life.
Sending all my love, xoxo Ivana
2023-01-2312 min
Balkan SisDiscovering Your Authentic Purpose and Cultivating Inner Harmony with Helen Selmeczy | Otkrivanje Vaše Istinske Svrhe i Kultiviranje Unutarnjeg Sklada s Helen SelmeczyI am thrilled to bring you an enlightening conversation with my local yoga teacher and master sound healer, Helen Selmeczy, from THE YOGINI. Over the years, I've discovered a profound love for yoga and the transformative benefits it offers, from breathwork and meditation to inner peace and serenity. Yoga has become a sacred sanctuary for me, a place where I release the burdens I carry.
Despite my initial scepticism about yoga that persisted for years, my dearest friend and fellow Balkan sister, Franka Batinic, encouraged me to overcome my doubts and misconceptions. I'm truly grateful that I...
2023-01-231h 21
Balkan SisBalancing Your Life and Healing Your Body with @NitaNutrition | Urađenje Ravnoteže u Životu i Liječenje Tijela s @NitaNutritionGet ready for an exciting episode as I sit down with Leonita, a remarkable host of the BOTA podcast located in the United States. Leonita, a fellow Balkan sister, shares her immense passion and expertise in wellness, beauty, creativity, and nutrition. With years of experience as a fully qualified dietitian in the healthcare field, she made the bold decision to step out on her own and create @nitanutrition.
In our conversation, we delve into the transformative power of mindfulness, awareness, and slowing down in our fast-paced lives. Despite the demands of her busy life and caring for...
2023-01-111h 02Balkan SisFarewell to 2022: A Year in Review | Doviđenja 2022: Pregled GodineWow, looking back at 2022, it truly was a challenging year. Both professionally and personally, I faced numerous hurdles, and the loss of my beloved companions, Bruno and Lea, brought many tears. This year was marked by goodbyes and the lingering uncertainty of post-COVID life. The world may appear to be back to 'normal,' but what even is 'normal' in this new reality?
With a pandemic, global tensions, and rising inflation, we're only scratching the surface of the complexities we've had to navigate. So, how do we find stability on such shaky ground? How can we nurture...
2022-12-3021 min
Balkan SisStarting from Scratch | Početi od nuleWelcome back, dear friends,
In this episode, I decided to step up to the microphone and open up about what's been happening in the Fonzi household over the past few weeks and months. We've experienced the loss of our beloved family members, Bruno and Lea, in a very short period. I want to use this episode to discuss my mental health journey, breaking the stigma around seeking help.
I'll share my experience of participating in a wonderful podcast called "Never Just a Dog," where I talk about the profound impact Bruno and Lea had on...
2022-11-0437 min
Balkan SisThe Journey of the Girl Who Left | Putovanje Djevojke Koja Je Otišla - Debra GavranichDebra Gavranich - The Girl Who Left
Debra Gavranich joins us from North Queensland, Australia, to discuss her recently published book, "The Girl Who Left." This book delves into her mother's journey from Korčula to the cane fields of Australia. In this episode, we explore life on Korčula, the proxy marriage that led to her mother's departure, and her adaptation to life in Australia. Debra shares her inspiration behind the book and the surprising opportunities for song and movie productions it has brought.
At the age of 18, Marija, Debra's mother, ag...
2022-10-071h 00
Balkan SisLove and Loss | Istraživanje Dubina Ljubavi i GubitkaEmbracing Grief, Cultivating Resilience, and Reclaiming Mental Health
Dear brothers and sisters, it's been a while. I've been deep in my grief, and I've finally come out to share my experiences of loss. I've lost my childhood home, experienced miscarriages, lost family members, and, sadly, my first dog and family member, Bruno. I know that if you come from our culture and Balkan heritage, goodbyes become a part of your childhood and your life story. Whether you were born in the homeland or abroad, you're all too familiar with this feeling.
I hesitated to share...
2022-10-0741 min
Balkan SisFica Crew: Part 2 | Fića Crew Dio.2 - Upoznavanje Tima FićaPart 2 - Featuring Amar & Lejla from the Fića Crew
With a strong following of over 27,000 on Instagram and other social platforms, Lejla & Amar share their love, lives, and adventures around the world with their little green car!
They enlighten us on why this car is so iconic, what it represents historically, and how they're expanding their adventures in Sarajevo with their young family. Their humility and boundless energy are truly inspiring, and I'm delighted to have them as guests on Balkan Sis. I hope you can infuse a bit of the Fića Crew at...
2022-09-1243 min
Balkan SisFića Crew: Part 1 - Who Are They? | Fića Crew Dio 1 - Tko Su Oni?Wow, wow! We are truly humbled and excited to have hosted the FIĆA CREW on this week's episode. Amar and Lejla are two extraordinary creatives with an impressive following of almost 27,000 on Instagram. They've organically grown a substantial audience across various social media platforms.
During our conversation, we delved into a wide range of topics, from their journey as entrepreneurs to pursuing their passions, embracing parenthood, and challenging the status quo. Amar's upbringing in Australia and Lejla's in Switzerland brought them together, and now, with their young family, they're enjoying life in Sarajevo.
This e...
2022-09-1256 min
Balkan SisWelcome | Dobrodošli na Balkan Sis PodcastHello, beautiful souls,
Thank you for being part of this incredible journey. Balkan Sis began as two best friends creating a safe haven for women from the Balkans and beyond. With the challenges of time differences and guests scattered worldwide, we've embarked on a fresh, solo adventure.
This podcast is a quest to stay connected to our culture, heritage, and the diaspora. Each episode is a learning experience, offering insights into our guests, ourselves, and the world we inhabit. Our intention is simple: to make you feel less alone, more loved, and deeply connected to...
2022-09-0231 min2022-09-0200 min