ABROADly Speaking

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Podcast by Mistelle Godlewski

ABROADly Speaking

Welcome to Abroadly Speaking—where we’re not just talking about life abroad; we’re living it, challenges and all. Hosted by Mistelle Godlewski, a three-time expat with a serious knack for navigating life far from home, this podcast cuts through the glossy Insta-perfect scenes and gets real about what it takes to thrive overseas. Every episode, we dive into the unfiltered side of moving abroad—culture shock that’ll hit you sideways, the endless paperwork nobody warns you about, and the moments that make you realize why you took the leap in the first place. You’ll get stories that don’t hold back, practical tips you’ll actually use, and a community that’s in it with you. Whether you’re just dreaming or already living that overseas life, Abroadly Speaking is your passport to living your dream life beyond borders. We’re here to make the journey smoother, more connected, and more fulfilling—so grab your passport, hit play, and let’s dive into this adventure together!
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Latest episodes

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31 March 2025

Budget Series: Proof of Funds: How Much Do You Need to Move Abroad?

If the government thinks you're just borrowing from your mom to get through the visa process, they’re going to see right through it—and deny your visa. So, let’s talk about proof of funds: what it is, why it matters, and how to make sure you have what you need (without resorting to sketchy money moves).

In this episode of Abroadly Speaking, we’re breaking down:

✔️ What proof of funds is and why some countries require it

✔️ How much money you actually need (hint: it depends!)

✔️ The right way to prepare so you’re not scrambling at the last minute

✔️ What not to do (aka why you shouldn’t ‘borrow’ money just for a bank statement)

✔️ How this all fits into your bigger Move Budget

If you’re serious about moving abroad, you need to know the financial realities of visa applications. I’m here to help you get prepared so that your move isn’t just a dream—it’s a reality.

Join the 'Don't Go Broke Abroad' Challenge! Starting April 1, 2025, this free 3-day challenge will walk you through exactly how to budget for your move abroad—before, during, and after. Sign up now and take the stress out of your finances. Join Here!

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24 March 2025

Budget Series: How to Move Abroad Without Going Broke: Budgeting Hacks That Actually Work

So, you’re ready to move abroad—but you’d prefer not to survive on instant ramen for six months? Fair enough.

In this episode, we’re diving into real ways to cut costs before, during, and after your move—without extreme couponing or moving back into your parents’ basement. We’re covering:

✔️ Visa & paperwork hacks that actually save you money

✔️ The best ways to score cheap flights (hint: forget weekends)

✔️ Smart shipping tricks that won’t drain your bank account

✔️ How to avoid the “Oh $%&!, I’m broke” moment after landing

💡 Bonus: My FREE 3-day “Don’t Go Broke Abroad” Challenge kicks off April 1st! We’ll map out your budget together so you can move abroad without financial regret. Sign up now!

10 Ways to Save on Your Move freebie!

Hit play, take notes, and let’s get you moving abroad without emptying your bank account.

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17 March 2025

Budget Series: Hidden Costs (and how to avoid them)

Don't Go Broke Abroad Challenge: Register HERE

Moving abroad isn’t just about booking a plane ticket and packing a few suitcases. If you’re not prepared for the hidden expenses lurking in the shadows, they’ll devour your budget faster than you can say "visa application fee." In this episode, we’re uncovering the sneaky costs that catch so many expats off guard—documentation fees, visa costs, banking nightmares, short-term housing expenses, and more.

But don’t panic! I’m giving you the inside scoop on how to avoid these budget busters (without having to sell a kidney). Plus, if you’re serious about moving abroad without going broke, don’t miss my Don't Go Broke Abroad challenge kicking off on April 1st, 2025. Details and registration link below!

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

  • Why documentation and legalization fees can feel like legal extortion—and how to cut costs.
  • The real price of visa applications (hint: it’s not just the application fee).
  • How foreign banking fees quietly drain your wallet and what to do instead.
  • The hidden costs of temporary housing (and how to score deals on short-term rentals).
  • Why shipping your entire house abroad might be the worst financial decision you ever make.
  • The shocking reality of double taxation for U.S. citizens (because Uncle Sam never forgets).

Join the "Don't Go Broke Abroad" Challenge! Want a clear, stress-free roadmap to budgeting for your move? Join my 3-day Don't Go Broke Abroad challenge, starting April 1st, 2025. We’ll cover: ✔️ The BEFORE Budget: Visa fees, application costs, medical exams, document and translator fees. ✔️ The MOVE Budget: Travel expenses, temporary accommodation, pet relocation costs. ✔️ The AFTER Budget: Taxes, tax treaties, double taxation, and managing retirement accounts.

📍 Sign up here: LINK

Resources Mentioned:

  • Wise & Revolut for international banking
  • U.S. State Department for apostille information
  • Expat Facebook groups for short-term rental deals

🎧 Enjoyed this episode?

  • Subscribe & leave a review on your favorite podcast platform!
  • Screenshot this episode, share it on Instagram, and tag me @iammistelle so I can say hi!

Your budget deserves better—let’s make your move abroad as affordable (and stress-free) as possible!

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10 March 2025

Finding a Job Abroad

Looking for a job abroad? Buckle up, because today we're diving into the reality of international job hunting. Forget the myths—just showing up in a new country or assuming your English skills alone will land you a job isn’t the golden ticket you think it is. In this episode, we’ll break down the most common misconceptions about working abroad and give you actionable strategies to actually land a job.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

  • Why “just showing up” in a new country won’t guarantee you a job.
  • The truth about English speakers being in demand abroad.
  • The visa vs. job dilemma and which one you should focus on first.
  • How multinational companies can be your best bet for job sponsorship.
  • Why LinkedIn (used strategically) can be your best friend—but not your only tool.
  • The power of networking and how to do it without being that person who cold DMs strangers.
  • Why taking a lateral move (or even a slight demotion) might be your ticket abroad.

Got questions or want to share your job search story? Connect with me on Instagram @iammistelle.

Want to know more about our Career & Professional Life mini-course? Check out all the info here.

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03 March 2025

Moving Abroad with Pets: Because Leaving Fluffy Behind is NOT an Option

Leaving your pet behind when you move abroad? Yeah, that’s not happening. If you’re a pet parent planning an international move, this episode is for you. I moved abroad in 2013 with two cats (who, at the time, were my only family), so I get how stressful this can be. From breed restrictions to airline fees, microchips to health certificates—there’s a lot to consider when taking your furry friend with you.

In this episode, we’ll cover: ✅ The first steps to take when planning your pet’s move ✅ The ‘paw-sport’ (yes, really) and paperwork they’ll need ✅ Country-specific restrictions (especially for certain dog breeds) ✅ Vaccination, microchipping, and health certificate requirements ✅ Flying with pets—cargo vs. in-cabin and what to expect ✅ Budgeting for pet relocation (because, of course, it’s not cheap) ✅ Housing and finding pet-friendly rentals ✅ What to do once you arrive: vet care, registration, and emergency prep

Resources Mentioned:

📌 My Export & Ship mini-course covers pet relocation in detail, including a step-by-step process for getting your pet abroad without a headache.

📌 Need help figuring out breed restrictions or pet travel rules? DM me on Instagram!

Follow & Connect: 📍 Instagram: @iammistelle 📍 Threads: (Okay, you can’t DM me there, but you can stalk my posts.)

Hit play and let’s get Fluffy ready for their big move!

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17 February 2025

How to Legally Stay Abroad Without Selling a Kidney or Marrying a Local

Ever dreamed of living abroad but don’t want to risk deportation or, you know, breaking international law? In this episode, I’m breaking down the real, legal ways to move abroad—no fake marriages or under-the-table gigs required.

From freelancer and digital nomad visas to traditional work sponsorships and even golden visas for the bougie among us, I’ll walk you through the options, the loopholes, and what you definitely shouldn’t do unless you want to be on a first-name basis with immigration officials.

So, if you’re ready to pack your bags legally, hit play and let’s talk visas!

Follow me on Instagram

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