Today we discuss the language we use to describe ourselves in our experiences of living abroad. Do you use the word “expat” to describe yourself? Or do you prefer the word “immigrant”? What about “global nomad”? Something else altogether?

In this episode, I share with you some of my thoughts about these different terms and how I’ve come to understand some of the connotations associated with them. I also discuss my hope to make the podcast relevant for all people living abroad, regardless of what words they prefer to use to describe themselves.

What you’ll hear in today’s episode:

• Some common terms people use to describe their experiences of living abroad.
• Some of the nuances and connotations (intended or not) to these words.
• How I decided to name the podcast “Mindful Expat.”
• How I hope to make the podcast relevant for all people living abroad, whether or not they identify with the word “expat.”

Resources mentioned in today’s episode:

• The article I mentioned: “Why are white people expats when the rest of us are immigrants?” by Mawuna Remarque Koutonin (from The Guardian, 2015).
• Another article on the same subject but more specific to France: “Expats or immigrants in France: Is there a difference?” by Oliver Gee (from The Local, 2016).

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