We’re Moving to Europe Substack
We’re Moving to Europe Community
RJ Pesigan on LinkedIn
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=@WMTEurope
American physician Dr. RJ Pesigan joins We’re Moving to Europe to explain how the Dutch healthcare system really works. From finding a GP and getting insurance to understanding cultural differences, medications, and trans-inclusive care, this episode helps expats navigate healthcare in the Netherlands with confidence.
00:00 Dutch directness and healthcare culture
01:00 Welcome to We’re Moving to Europe
01:30 Meet Dr. RJ Pesigan, founder of Cornerstone Health
01:55 Moving to the Netherlands during COVID
03:00 From medicine to MBA to entrepreneurship
04:00 Understanding Dutch vs US healthcare systems
06:20 Cultural differences in doctor-patient communication
07:20 How to prepare for a GP visit in the Netherlands
08:47 Appeals and patient rights
09:50 Self-care and ownership in Dutch healthcare
11:20 Preventive healthcare and checkups
12:30 How to register with a Dutch GP and pharmacy
14:40 Health insurance requirements for expats
15:10 Membership community: We’re Moving to Europe
16:03 Medication availability (e.g., Adderall) and records
18:02 Access to transgender healthcare in the Netherlands
20:47 Managing chronic conditions as an expat
22:00 Bringing and digitizing your medical records
22:40 Budgeting for medications and transition period
23:30 Finding expat-friendly healthcare professionals
24:10 Vision, dental, and alternative care coverage
25:06 Closing and credits
Production team
Host and Researcher: Casey Kelly – We’re Moving to Europe
Producer and Editor: Magdalena Laas – Unscripted Creatives
Sound library
All the music was composed especially for the We’re Moving to Europe podcast by Sage Barton. Copyright 2025, Sage Barton.
Useful Resources:
We’re Moving to Europe Substack
We’re Moving to Europe Community
https://serenity-portugal.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-averbukh-md-mha-7b935a44/
Episode Description
Thinking about moving to Portugal and wondering how healthcare works? In this episode of We’re Moving to Europe, host Casey Kelly talks with Dr. Michael Averbukh, CEO and Managing Partner at Serenity, a healthcare concierge service for expats and immigrants in Portugal. They discuss how Portugal’s public and private systems compare to the US, what Americans should prepare for, managing medications, navigating bureaucracy, and access to care for trans people.
Whether you’re planning a relocation or already settling in, this conversation will help you understand how to prepare for your medical needs and make the most of Portugal’s healthcare system.
0:00 Introduction & guest intro
1:30 Dr. Averbukh’s journey to Portugal
2:55 Founding Serenity and its mission
4:24 Comparing US and Portuguese healthcare
6:19 Public vs private systems explained
9:20 Insurance and access differences
12:07 Medication availability & preparation
14:10 Navigating Portugal’s healthcare bureaucracy
19:15 Healthcare access for trans people
22:03 Tips for preparing medical care before moving
27:10 How to manage care after arrival
35:24 Final advice: Be prepared
Production team
Host and Researcher: Casey Kelly – We’re Moving to Europe
Producer and Editor: Magdalena Laas – Unscripted Creatives
Sound library
All the music was composed especially for the We’re Moving to Europe podcast by Sage Barton. Copyright 2025, Sage Barton.
B-Roll
Additional royalty-free footage curated via Pixabay and Pexels
Useful Resources:
We’re Moving to Europe Substack
We’re Moving to Europe Community
Episode Description
Thinking about moving to Europe? Dutch tax expert Christie DuChateau joins host Casey Kelly to explain what Americans really need to know about international taxes, salaries, and retirement planning abroad. Learn how double taxation actually works, what benefits your Dutch taxes cover, and how to prepare your finances before relocating.
[00:00] Casey opens the episode and introduces today’s topic on expat taxes
[01:00] Christie shares her background and how BNC Tax & Accounting began
[03:30] Breaking down misconceptions about double taxation for Americans overseas
[05:30] Comparing European and U.S. income levels and effective tax rates
[07:45] Understanding what European taxes cover, from healthcare to family leave
[10:00] How pensions, 401(k)s, and Social Security are treated across borders
[13:00] How expats can e-file, use software, or work with a tax professional
[15:30] The “three pillars” of retirement and smart cross-border investment options
[21:45] Why U.S. business entities are treated differently in Europe
[26:30] How far in advance to prepare for visas, housing, and finances
[28:45] Cost-of-living differences, culture shifts, and spending habits
[31:30] Christie’s final advice, plus where to find more information
Sound library
All the music was composed especially for the We’re Moving to Europe podcast by Sage Barton. Copyright 2025, Sage Barton
B-Roll
Additional royalty-free footage curated via Pixabay and FreePik
PROMOTION
Because you're a We're Moving to Europe listener, you can get 15% off Marisa's pet travel planner or concierge services at Paws Abroad. Enter the code WMTE when you check out at https://www.pawsabroad.co/. (I'll receive an affiliate commission if you make a purchase with this code.)
Episode Description
Bringing your pets along when you move abroad can feel overwhelming. Between airline rules, health certificates, and crate training, it’s easy to feel stressed about international pet relocation. On this episode of the We’re Moving to Europe podcast, Paws Abroad founder Marisa Hoskins shares her recommendations for planning your move with pets, how to make the journey easier for both you and them, and why you may have more – and better – options than you think.
Quote
“Don’t wait till the bitter end. Sign up three to six months in advance, so we can help you plan. That’s how you avoid quarantine, paperwork issues, and stress for both you and your pet.”
Useful Resources
We’re Moving to Europe Substack
We’re Moving to Europe Community
[00:00] Meet Annie, the Portuguese Podengo
[00:48] Welcome to We’re Moving to Europe
[01:21] Guest intro: Marisa Hoskins, founder of Paws Abroad
[01:56] Marisa’s first experience with international pet travel
[03:14] Launching her first pet company
[04:32] Why she built Paws Abroad
[05:18] The Pet Travel Planner explained
[06:05] Growing community & concierge services
[07:20] Myths about pet quarantine and cargo travel
[09:01] Paperwork, health certificates, and safe cargo travel
[10:32] Why planning 3–6 months ahead matters
[11:29] Common mistakes: carriers, bookings, breed restrictions
[13:08] Personalized support & peace of mind
[14:46] Other travel options: charters, cruises, new airline rules
[16:18] About the We’re Moving to Europe community
[17:37] Food & medication planning for pets
[20:28] Traveling with multiple pets & airline restrictions
[22:15] Best timing: why 6 months is ideal
[25:26] Advice for people worried it’s “too stressful”
[26:36] Free guide & final tips
[27:41] Community discount & contact info
[28:28] Wrap up & credits
Production Team
Host and Researcher: Casey Kelly – We’re Moving to Europe
Producer and Editor: Magdalena Laas – Unscripted Creatives
Sound library
All the music was composed especially for the We’re Moving to Europe podcast by Sage Barton. Copyright 2025, Sage Barton.
B-Roll
Additional royalty-free footage curated via Pexels
Useful Resources
Production Team
Host and Researcher: Casey Kelly-Barton – We’re Moving to Europe
Producer and Editor: Magdalena Laas – Unscripted Creatives
[0:03] Feeling overwhelmed about moving to Europe?
[0:10] Introducing the We're Moving to Europe community
[0:23] Learn at your own pace with expert support
[0:29] Monthly classes, tools, and resources
[0:37] Reliable, up-to-date information
[0:43] Practical guidance and early podcast access
[0:58] Helping you make your own decisions
[1:08] Find us at skool.com
[1:48] Welcome and intro to the episode
[2:19] Meet Karen Shopoff Rooff
[2:52] How Karen got into college coaching
[3:29] Addressing educational inequity
[4:18] Pandemic-era inspiration and early work
[5:07] Finding the right fit for students
[5:33] Dispelling college consultant myths
[6:05] Karen's international education story
[7:01] Life-changing London experiences
[8:18] Study abroad as a valuable experience
[9:05] Specialized training for international options
[10:14] Rise in interest for college abroad
[11:10] Factors driving interest in EU colleges
[12:19] Safety and intellectual freedom
[12:53] Why European college might be a better fit
[13:22] When it's *not* a good fit
[13:59] Maturity and independence required
[15:00] Financial considerations of EU degrees
[15:53] Housing challenges in the Netherlands
[16:42] Knowing your kid’s resilience
[17:39] Academic differences in EU colleges
[18:08] Transparent EU admissions process
[19:00] Application pre-reads and reduced guesswork
[20:05] Grading systems and assessment style
[21:16] High stakes grading vs busywork
[21:45] Program rigidity and flexibility differences
[22:21] Mini-courses and short modules
[23:13] Importance of time management skills
[24:05] FAFSA and financial aid in Europe
[25:14] Merit scholarships for international students
[26:03] Risks of switching programs
[26:51] A costly time zone mistake
[27:34] Tracking deadlines for scholarships
[28:28] Disability accommodations in EU colleges
[29:24] When to start planning for college abroad
[30:32] APs, IBs, and test prep importance
[31:41] Visiting EU schools and virtual tours
[32:45] Better virtual tours than in the US
[33:43] International student resources
[34:46] The emotional impact on families
[35:20] Family transitions and multiple moves
[36:14] When transition is harder than expected
[37:07] Supporting your child emotionally
[38:01] Normalize the fear of a big move
[38:26] Where to find Karen Shopoff Rooff
[39:16] Show credits and closing
Sound Library
All the music was composed especially for the We’re Moving to Europe podcast by Sage Barton. Copyright 2025, Sage Barton.
The Netherlands feels familiar to people because so many people speak English, and there are a lot of things from American culture that come from Dutch culture – Jana
The real question that everyone needs to ask themselves is, what do you want your life to look like? What kind of a country do you want to live in, and what kind of a country do you want your kids to live in? – Bethany
Useful Resources
Production Team
Host and Researcher: Casey Kelly-Barton – We’re Moving to Europe
Producer and Editor: Magdalena Laas – Unscripted Creatives
[0:03] Introduction to the We’re Moving to Europe Community
[1:47] Welcome to the Episode
[2:18] Meet Bethany and Jana of GTFO Tours
[2:40] Their Backgrounds and How They Met
[3:52] Why They Chose to Move to the Netherlands
[4:52] Starting GTFO Tours and What It Offers
[6:20] Early Success and Tour Launch
[6:38] Why Americans Are Attracted to the Netherlands
[7:37] What Is the DAFT Visa and How It Works
[10:27] Income, Freelancing, and Family Considerations
[12:13] Entrepreneur Visas vs. DAFT
[14:06] Dual Strategy for Spouses and Work Options
[15:09] The Housing Challenge in the Netherlands
[16:32] Schooling, Taxes, and Administrative Hurdles
[17:54] 30% Tax Ruling and Planning Ahead
[18:56] The Bureaucracy of Moving and Starting Over
[19:25] Keeping US Jobs and Managing Time Zones
[21:08] The Reality of the Dutch Housing Market
[22:56] Misconceptions About Rent and Pitching Yourself
[23:44] Budgeting and the Role of a Makelaar
[25:07] How Bethany Found Her Apartment
[26:02] Alternatives to Living in Amsterdam
[27:35] Picking Cities Based on Lifestyle and Needs
[28:53] The Housing Crisis vs. the US Context
[30:15] Reasonable Timelines for Moving
[31:57] How Complexity Affects Your Timeline
[33:07] Downsizing and the Cost of Moving Furniture
[34:12] Don't Wait Too Long to Move
[35:24] Life Vision and Family Considerations
[36:01] Debt, Financial Mindsets, and Cultural Differences
[37:23] Building Community in the Netherlands
[38:02] How to Make Connections as an Expat
[40:24] Surprising Benefits of Living in the Netherlands
[41:51] Bethany on Dating and Emotional Balance
[42:58] Closing Remarks and Where to Find More Info
[43:34] Outro and Credits
Sound Library
All the music was composed especially for the We’re Moving to Europe podcast by Sage Barton. Copyright 2025, Sage Barton.
What’s it like starting a new life in the Balkans as an American, and then dealing with sudden tragedy in an unfamiliar place? In this episode, author Chanoa Inez shares her experiences living in Montenegro and Serbia, why she still loves Montenegro, and how she rebuilt her life.
"You can come back from any tragedy. There's always another dream to be had."
Useful Resources
Dream on: How to Create the New Life of Your Dreams after Upheaval or Loss (Book)
Chanoa Inez (LinkedIn)
We’re Moving to Europe (Substack)
European-wide emergency number: 112
Where are U app (identifies caller's exact location in an emergency)
US Department of State issues travel alerts and warnings if you enroll into its Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)
[00:26] Introduction to the podcast and host Casey Kelly
[00:57] Guest introduction: Chanoa Inez, author and marketing strategist
[01:21] Chanoa’s move to Montenegro and how it came about
[04:22] A tragic turning point: sudden loss of her partner
[06:17] Why Chanoa chose to stay in Europe and her dual life in Serbia and Montenegro
[07:52] Learning Serbo-Croat and choosing Serbia vs Montenegro
[10:46] Returning to the U.S. and the pull of Los Angeles
[12:24] Realizing the long-term impact of grief and trauma
[15:58] The deliberate journey of healing and personal transformation
[17:00] Childhood-rooted limiting beliefs and perfectionism
[19:05] Core message of the book Dream On and who it's for
[22:00] Language learning advice for prospective expats
[24:28] Why integrating with locals matters abroad
[25:16] How to prepare for emergencies while living overseas
[26:53] U.S. State Department travel alerts and embassy support
[29:03] Life in Montenegro: natural beauty, lifestyle, and international appeal
[32:52] Final message for those facing grief, anxiety, or transition
[34:50] Thank you and where to find Chanoa’s book
[35:27] Closing credits and Substack mention
Sound Library
All the music was composed especially for the We’re Moving to Europe podcast by Sage Barton. Copyright 2025, Sage Barton.
Social media and the web are full of useful information for Americans who are considering a move to Europe. But they’re also full of outdated, incomplete, and outright bad information that can steer you wrong on a life-changing decision.
Behavioral analyst and educator Dr. Jennifer Weber shares her recommendations on how we can examine the information we find online and figure out if we can trust it.
"Anecdotes prompts us to ask questions, data answers these questions."Useful Resources
We’re Moving to Europe (Substack)
Dr. Jennifer Weber (Substack)
Production Team
Host and Researcher: Casey Kelly-Barton – We’re Moving to Europe
Producer and Editor: Magdalena Laas – Unscripted Creatives
[00:00] Intro & Community Announcement
[01:14] Welcome to the Podcast
[01:46] Introducing Dr. Jennifer Weber
[02:20] Dr. Webber’s Background in Behavior Analysis
[03:11] Systems Thinking in Education
[04:06] Why She Started Writing on Substack
[04:29] Social Media's Impact on Thinking
[05:29] The Double-Edged Sword of Social Media
[06:35] How Social Media Shapes Engagement
[07:18] How to Check Ourselves Online
[08:12] Why Slowing Down Matters
[09:07] Media Silos & Losing Context
[10:16] Portugal Example & Public Reaction
[10:49] Breaking Out of the Silo Mentality
[12:09] Repetition vs. Evidence
[13:12] Three Critical Questions to Ask
[14:20] Critical Thinking & Mental Comfort
[15:13] Interrupting the Behavior Loop
[16:11] Algorithmic Influence and Personal Responsibility
[17:14] Learning How to Think in a Digital World
[18:28] Decoupling Emotion from Information
[19:05] Understanding the Function of Information
[19:45] Evaluating Data vs. Anecdotes
[21:24] How to Use Anecdotes Constructively
[22:59] Starting with Two Sources
[23:55] Misconceptions Around Sourcing
[24:49] Why Google or ChatGPT Aren’t Enough
[26:00] Teaching Better Research Habits
[27:11] Top Search Results vs. Quality
[28:09] Applying These Skills Across Life
[28:35] Dr. Weber’s Upcoming Course
[30:07] Summary of Key Takeaways
[31:11] Start Small, Build Better Habits
[32:13] Empowerment Through Verification
[32:54] Final Thanks & Closing
[33:27] Outro & Credits
Sound Library
All the music was composed especially for the We’re Moving to Europe podcast by Sage Barton. Copyright 2025, Sage Barton.
Summary
Moving to another country is a big challenge, especially if you’re bringing your child and your business to a new culture. Our guest, open source consultant and expert Emily Omier, did both when she moved from Oregon to Paris. She shares her experiences with getting her daughter ready for the move, learning what French public schools provide, and operating her consultancy business in a new bureaucracy.
Useful Resources
Emily’s website: https://www.emilyomier.com/
Emily on LinkedIn
We’re Moving to Europe Community Pre-Launch Survey
Production Team
Host and Researcher: Casey Kelly-Barton – We're Moving to Europe
Producer and Editor: Magdalena Laas – Unscripted Creatives
Time Stamps
0:26 – Introduction to the podcast and host
0:54 – Today’s topic: moving abroad solo or with a child
1:10 – Guest introduction: Emily Omier, consultant & parent
1:44 – Emily's international living history
2:55 – Moving to Nicaragua with a toddler
3:41 – Moving to France with a 7-year-old
4:19 – Talking to her daughter about the move
5:26 – Language learning in French schools
6:24 – The social benefits of French integration classes
7:31 – Public vs. private school and enrollment logistics
8:36 – Grade placement & school culture differences
9:01 – Parent-teacher communication norms in France
10:30 – College prep and standardized testing in French schools
11:18 – Evaluation expectations and a hands-off approach
12:11 – Homework in French elementary schools
12:25 – Parenting culture and social integration in France
13:38 – Healthcare logistics for children in France
14:28 – Healthcare system costs & cultural adjustment
16:10 – Visa logistics and dependent rules for minors
17:22 – Visa process and timeline for moving to France
18:43 – The biggest upsides of moving to Paris for her daughter
20:27 – Social and structural support for parents in France
22:59 – Emily’s business background & being self-employed in France
24:18 – Adapting an established business to a new country
25:22 – Cultural nuances in doing business in France
27:29 – Industry vs. national culture: knowing the difference
28:19 – Advice for anyone considering an international move
29:27 – Don’t idealize Europe: do your research
30:44 – Why Emily chose Paris specifically
31:25 – Outro and credits
Sound Library
All the music was composed especially for the We’re Moving to Europe podcast by Sage Barton. Copyright 2025, Sage Barton.
Summary
Leiden University undergraduate Fletcher Barton shares how and why he left Texas for college in Europe. He also offers tips on deciding if it fits your goals well, what to expect, and how to get ready.
That's, you know, I, I get to learn so much more about the world and I get so many more opportunities to, to try new things like like new cuisines or practicing a lot of different languages.
Useful Resources
Search By Country - Beyond The States
Admission and application - Leiden University
We’re Moving to Europe Community Pre-Launch Survey
Production Team
Host and Researcher: Casey Kelly-Barton – We’re Moving to Europe
Producer and Editor: Magdalena Laas – Unscripted Creatives
Time Stamps
00:34 – Introduction to the episode: Topic overview – college in Europe
00:53 – Meet the guest: Fletcher Barton, archaeology student at Leiden University
01:26 – Fletcher shares his study path and plans
02:24 – Regional limitations of certain degrees (e.g., law, medicine)
03:18 – How studying abroad impacts long-term career goals
04:33 – When to evaluate the transferability of a European degree to the U.S.
05:12 – Challenges of changing majors in European universities
06:36 – Fields that transfer well between countries vs. those that don’t
07:06 – Comparing educational quality: Leiden vs. top U.S. schools
08:15 – Breakdown of tuition costs at Leiden University
08:38 – Scholarships and financial aid considerations
09:25 – Differences in the admissions process (U.S. vs. Europe)
10:52 – Conditional acceptance and financial proof requirements
13:02 – How Fletcher found Leiden and selected his program
14:00 – Using the “Beyond the States” tool to find English-taught programs
15:29 – What it was like settling into life and school in the Netherlands
16:53 – Bureaucracy, housing, banking, and other logistics
18:50 – Fletcher's experience as an American student abroad
20:07 – The social scene and student life in Europe
21:07 – European universities and the lack of traditional campuses
22:58 – Travel opportunities and transportation around Europe
25:11 – Practical advice for students and families considering this path
27:08 – Researching the right program and country fit
28:19 – Planning academic requirements early (e.g., AP classes)
29:25 – How to prepare between acceptance and arrival
30:03 – Learning the language and getting involved in campus life
31:12 – Working while studying and work permit limitations
32:26 – Cultural adjustment and food differences
34:22 – Final thoughts and wrap-up
Sound library
All the music was composed especially for the We’re Moving to Europe podcast by Sage Barton. Copyright 2025, Sage Barton.
Our guest, Anita Ahiadormey, is an international travel professional who’s lived in and visited many countries around the world. In this episode, she shares her expert recommendations for scouting a location—and explains why treating your scouting trip like a vacation can steer you wrong.
Quote
“When we move, there are real consequences to our actions and our decisions. So take your time and flesh it out as much as you can. You're not gonna know everything, but make sure the major things are covered.”
Useful Resources (links)
Anita Ahiadormey @ Fora Travel
La Casa Baatsona, Accra, Ghana
We’re Moving to Europe Substack
We’re Moving to Europe Community Pre-Launch Survey
Production Team
Host and Researcher: Casey Kelly-Barton – We’re Moving to Europe
Producer and Editor: Magdalena Laas – Unscripted Creatives
Time Stamps
01:56
Anita shares where she has lived
03:16
Anita’s travel history
05:37
More about her travel agency
06:45
Scouting trip vs. vacation
08:22
Importance of being honest about your reason for moving across borders
09:25
Practical tips when deciding to relocate — which things do you need to consider?
13:52
Cultural integration, understanding nuances, and learning the language
20:34
Stay focused on the reason for your trip — it's scouting for relocation, not a vacation. Perform typical daily tasks (e.g., transport, supermarket, safety in the neighborhood, doctors/medical centers, banking, internet, schools, etc.)
27:25
Become familiar with the difference between the healthcare system in the new country and at home
30:05
Possibly different religious beliefs — show respect
33:30
Find out about local festivals, celebrations, and customs
36:36
Summary of advice
37:59
Give thought to getting older, or what to do in case of death, and funerals
39:27
Final thoughts
Sound library
All the music was composed especially for the We’re Moving to Europe podcast by Sage Barton. Copyright 2025, Sage Barton.