The Global Girlfriend

Planning a Greek island summer? We’ve got you. In this episode of The Global Girlfriend, we draw on years of travel experience across Greece—covering over a dozen islands—to give you a practical, insider’s guide to planning an unforgettable trip. From iconic destinations like Santorini and Mykonos to lesser-known gems like Paros, Skopelos, and beyond, we break down what’s actually worth your time—and how to experience the Greek islands in a way that feels intentional, not overwhelming.In this episode, we share:The best Greek islands (and how to choose the right ones for you)Smart itinerary planning based on real travel experienceFerry vs. flights: what seasoned travelers know before bookingWhere to stay for the best mix of convenience, culture, and valueMust-try Greek dishes and how to eat like a localExactly how to order coffee in Greece (and why it matters)Tried-and-tested travel tips to avoid crowds, save money, and travel smarterThis isn’t a generic travel guide, it’s everything we’ve learned from navigating the Greek islands firsthand, from slow travel strategies to hidden spots that most tourists miss.Perfect for:Women who travel, experienced explorers, first-time Greece visitors, and anyone planning a European summer with intention.

In this episode of The Global Girlfriend Podcast, we sit down with digital nomad and content creator Jetsetting Jacki to talk about one thing so many women quietly stress about: turning 30. But what if your 30s aren’t the end of your “fun era”… but actually the beginning?Jacki shares her journey from a government job in Australia to bartending in Greece, building a travel brand, and living abroad full-time. From wild Euro summers to building a life in Bali, she opens up about what it really means to chase freedom, create a career online, and redefine what adulthood looks like on your own terms. We dive into the pressures women face around age, relationships, and “settling down” and why you don’t have to follow anyone else’s timeline. Whether you’re feeling behind, stuck, or unsure about your next move, this episode will remind you that it’s never too late to start living boldly.In this episode, we cover:How Jacki went from a government job to full-time travel creatorThe reality of digital nomad life (the highs and the hidden challenges)Why turning 30 doesn’t mean slowing down your life or your funTravel highlights from Greece, Bali, and beyondDating while traveling (yes… including the wild stories )How to build confidence and just go for it—even if you’re scaredTips for making friends while traveling and designing your dream lifestyleIf you’ve ever thought, “Am I too old for this?”—this episode is your sign to book the flight, take the risk, and create a life that feels exciting to you. Perfect for: solo travelers, digital nomads, women in their late 20s & 30s, and anyone craving more freedom, adventure, and fun in their life. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review The Global Girlfriend Podcast and share this episode with a friend who needs a little push to start living boldly.Follow Jacki on socials at @jetsetting_jackiFollow us @theglobalgirlfriend or reach out via www.theglobalgirlfriend.com

What happens when you speak five languages and build a life far from home?In this episode of The Global Girlfriend Podcast, we sit down with our friend Karla, who moved from Croatia to Spain and built a life navigating multiple cultures, languages, and identities. From teaching French in Sevilla to working in an international company in Madrid, Karla’s story shows how living abroad can completely transform the way you think, communicate, and see the world.We talk about what it’s really like to think in multiple languages, how language shapes personality and emotions, and why immersion is the fastest way to learn. Karla also shares her experience dating across cultures, integrating into Spanish life, and how speaking several languages opened unexpected career opportunities.If you’ve ever dreamed about moving abroad, learning a new language, or building an international life, this episode is packed with insights, honest stories, and encouragement to take the leap.In this episode we discuss:• What it’s like to think in five languages• How language influences personality and identity• Culture shock and adapting to life abroad• Dating across languages and cultures• The surprising career advantages of being multilingual• Why making mistakes is the best way to learn a language• Advice for anyone afraid to move abroad because of language barriersKarla’s story is a reminder that language is more than words: it’s a gateway to connection, opportunity, and a bigger life.🎧 If you’ve ever wondered how living abroad changes you, this episode is for you.

Thinking about planning an international bachelorette party… but not sure where to start?In this episode of The Global Girlfriend Podcast, we break down exactly how to plan a destination bachelorette party — using Morgan’s London celebration as a real-life case study.From coordinating friends across six countries to budgeting flights, managing group dynamics, and building an itinerary that actually works — we’re sharing the practical steps (and honest lessons) behind planning a successful international hen do.Inside this episode, we cover:How far in advance to plan an international bacheloretteComparing international vs. domestic costs (you might be surprised)Using Google Docs to delegate roles and streamline planningChoosing a destination that feels authentic to the brideHow to build a realistic itinerary (without burnout or decision fatigue)Inviting beyond the bridal party and navigating global friendshipsHandling group dynamics and setting boundariesBalancing iconic events (like ABBA Voyage and West End shows) with downtimeAccommodation tips for large international groupsWe also talk about:How to divide responsibilities across your groupWhy logistics matter more than you thinkHow to prioritize what actually matters to the brideMaking an international trip feel inclusive and celebratoryThe emotional beauty of gathering friendships from different chapters of lifeIf you are:A bride considering a destination bacheloretteA maid of honor planning a hen party abroadA group of friends spread across countriesOr someone who loves women, travel, and big life momentsThis episode will give you both inspiration and strategy.International bachelorettes don’t have to be “extra” — with the right planning, they can be intentional, meaningful, and surprisingly doable.Would you plan a destination hen party abroad?Tell us the farthest you’ve traveled for a bachelorette.Connect with us on Instagram and TikTok @TheGlobalGirlfriend.If this episode helps you plan your trip, leave us a 5-star review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts — it helps more global girlfriends find us.

Have you ever gone on a trip… and come back a completely different person?In this powerful and reflective episode, we explore how travel can spark life-changing decisions, shift your mindset, and help you see what’s truly possible. Inspired by the idea that “travel breaks the illusion that your current life is the only possible one,” we share personal stories, listener experiences, and honest insights into why one journey can reshape your entire future. From Morgan’s transformative trip to Paris that led her to move abroad, to Brianna’s life-changing teaching internship in Kenya, this episode dives deep into how travel creates clarity, courage, and confidence. We also discuss: Why travel helps you reconnect with your intuitionHow stepping outside your routine creates perspective The balance between therapy and real-world experiencesStories of quitting jobs, starting businesses, and ending relationships after travelHow different cultures redefine “success” and happinessWhy your dreams feel more possible when you’re abroadWhether you’re planning your first solo trip, dreaming of living abroad, or feeling stuck in your current routine, this episode will inspire you to listen to your inner voice and embrace change.If you’ve ever wondered:“How travel changes your life,”“Should I move abroad?”“Can travel help me find myself?”or “Why do trips feel so transformative?”—this episode is for you.Tune in, get inspired, and let your next adventure change everything.www.theglobalgirlfriend.comOn socials: @theglobalgirlfriend

What starts as a TEFL certification in Florence turns into a life-changing journey through Rome, Tuscany, and the Italian wine world In this episode of The Global Girlfriend Podcast, we sit down with Tara, co-host of Taste Toast Travel, to talk about what really happens when you say yes to living abroad — the messy parts, the magic moments, and everything in between.Tara shares how a breakup and career crossroads led her from retail in California to teaching English in Italy, working with the Italian military, living in Rome, and eventually landing at a Tuscan winery where she met her husband and later got married — yes, at an Italian vineyard.We dive into:✨ What it’s actually like to get a TEFL certification abroad✨ How to find English teaching jobs in Italy✨ Florence vs. Rome — and why Rome might surprise you✨ Working at a winery in Tuscany✨ Planning a destination wedding in Italy (on a budget!)✨ Following your intuition when life feels uncertain✨ Building a global life, career, and family abroadThis episode is for anyone who’s dreamed about teaching English overseas, moving to Italy, or reinventing their life through travel — and wants the honest version, not just the Instagram highlight reel. Plus, Tara sticks around for our rapid-fire round covering Italian food obsessions, underrated destinations, and the ultimate wine to bring to a girlfriend dinner.If you’ve ever thought, “There has to be more than this” — this one’s for you.Follow Tara & Taste Toast Travel:Instagram & TikTok: @tastetostravel_Website & Podcast: tastetostravel.comFollow The Global Girlfriend:Instagram & TikTok: @theglobalgirlfriendWebsite: theglobalgirlfriend.com✈️ New episodes weekly. Bring your passport energy.

As we step into a new year, this episode of The Global Girlfriend is all about pausing, reflecting, and dreaming forward. In this New Year special, we’re looking back at 2025: a year of travel, growth, courage, and unexpected lessons...and setting powerful intentions for 2026. From unforgettable destinations and meaningful cultural moments to behind-the-scenes reflections on building a global podcast and community, this episode is about honoring where you’ve been and getting excited about where you’re going.We reflect on what travel taught us in 2025—about slowing down, belonging, confidence, and purpose—and share how The Global Girlfriend podcast evolved through conversations centered on global living, love, friendship, and personal expansion. We also express deep gratitude for our listeners, whose messages, stories, and support continue to shape this community.Looking ahead to 2026, we talk about:Dream travel destinations and intentional ways of exploring the worldSlow travel, deeper cultural immersion, and traveling for meaning, not just contentNew podcast themes, dream guests, and how we want the show to feel next yearPersonal intentions, growth goals, and choosing a word or mantra for the year aheadThis episode is also an invitation to reflect on your own year and step into your Global Girlfriend era, wherever you are in the world. You don’t need a passport to live globally, curiosity, courage, and intention are enough.Whether you’re planning your next trip, navigating life abroad, or simply craving a sense of expansion and connection, this episode is meant to feel like a hug and a boarding pass.🎧 Subscribe, share this episode with a fellow global girlfriend, and tag us with your 2026 dreams. Wherever you are in the world, you belong here.

What does it really mean to build a life around travel, purpose, and curiosity? In this episode of The Global Girlfriend Podcast, we’re joined by travel creator, journalist, and host of the Eternally Evolving podcast, Miriam Donovan, who’s currently living on a boat in French Polynesia . From studying international relations and Middle Eastern politics to full-time slow travel across 44 countries, Miriam shares how she followed her intuition, left her apartment behind, and created a sustainable travel lifestyle rooted in cultural understanding, ethical tourism, and community. We dive into her transformative experiences in Jordan, Nicaragua, Central America, and beyond—and what those places taught her about identity, belonging, and growth.In this episode, we talk about:What full-time travel actually looks like behind the scenesLiving and working on a boat in French PolynesiaSlow travel, work exchanges, and building community abroadTurning multiple passions into a sustainable careerEthical, cultural, and responsible travelOvercoming fear, anxiety, and uncertainty while traveling soloHow travel can be the ultimate educationWhether you’re dreaming of becoming a digital nomad, curious about life at sea, or navigating your own evolving relationship with work, home, and identity, this conversation will inspire you to trust the path you’re on—even when it doesn’t look conventional.Follow Miriam: @miriamdonovanListen to her podcast: Eternally Evolving✨ New episodes of The Global Girlfriend Podcast drop weekly—follow, rate, and share if this episode resonates with you.

Ready to update your 2025 travel bucket list? In this fun duo episode, Brianna and Morgan dive into Time Out’s “25 Best Things to Do in the World in 2025” and play a travel-lover’s version of Smash or Pass. From Arctic micro-cruises and vintage steam trains in Vietnam to wild new museums, creative cities, and party spots you may (or may not) want to visit, we’re breaking down which global experiences are actually worth the hype.As two women who live abroad and travel extensively, we’re sharing our honest reactions, our dream destinations, and a few hilarious hard passes. If you’re planning your next trip or just love hearing about unique travel experiences, this episode is full of inspiration, laughter, and wanderlust.In this episode:✨ The 2025 world events and destinations worth flying for✨ Why Greenland is suddenly on our radar✨ Bali’s new “creative city” and why it feels straight out of Black Mirror✨ Vintage steam trains, Arctic micro-cruises, and other aesthetic travel dreams✨ Places we’d skip — even for the plotThis is the perfect episode for travelers, expats, digital nomads, or anyone looking to explore new corners of the world in 2025.Share your Smash or Pass list with us!Find us on Instagram & TikTok: @theglobalgirlfriendExplore more at theglobalgirlfriend.com

What happens when your life changes in a single moment, and you refuse to stop exploring the world anyway?In this powerful episode, we sit down with Evan Folan, the first-ever man to join The Global Girlfriend, to share his unbelievable story of surviving a traumatic brain injury (TBI) after a freak semi-truck accident on a California freeway. Evan opens up about the day that changed his life, the years of recovery that followed, and what it means to travel, hike, love, and stay hopeful while living with chronic pain, memory loss, and hidden disabilities.From packing with checklists and traveling with ice packs to seeking joy in food, mountains, and meaningful human connection, Evan reminds us that life is a gift, and no day is guaranteed.He also introduces Toro & Tides, the brand he created to support and educate the brain-injury community, where 10% of profits help people access treatment when insurance fails. You’ll hear:Evan’s near-death experience and recoveryHow he continues traveling with a TBIWhat allies can do to support hidden disabilitiesWhy living in the moment matters now more than everHow Toro & Tides is building community & awareness🌊 Follow & Support Toro & Tides: @toroandtides | toroandtides.com Listen to Evan’s podcast Brain to Brain for more stories from the TBI community.

What does it take to see the world when the world isn’t always built for you? In this inspiring episode we sit down with disability advocate, writer, and photographer Michelle Steiner to talk about navigating travel through the lens of a learning disability.Michelle shares her story of resilience: from being told she couldn’t go to college to proving everyone wrong, building a life she loves, and finding freedom through travel. She opens up about her first solo trip, how she prepares for accessible adventures, and the small acts of kindness that make travel more inclusive for everyone.You’ll also learn about the Flight Ambassador Program, the Hidden Sunflower Lanyard, and other travel resources designed to support travelers with invisible disabilities. This conversation is a reminder that the world can open up in beautiful ways when we meet it with curiosity, patience, and compassion.Follow Michelle at https://www.michellesmission.com/Connect with us on socials @theglobalgirlfriend

In this powerful and heart-opening episode we sit down with Moira Khan: grief coach, educator, and founder of Griefspan Education. Moira shares how her international journey took a devastating turn when she experienced the tragic loss of her family while living abroad.Instead of shutting down, she transformed her pain into purpose, creating a compassionate global community for others navigating grief far from home.In this episode, we explore:Moira’s life abroad and the story behind her international rootsHow profound loss inspired her to create Griefspan Education and support others in griefReal, honest tips for coping with grief while living in a foreign countryWhat to do when you’re facing anticipatory grief or deciding whether to move homeHow to begin again. Rebuilding identity, purpose, and joy in a new countryThis conversation is tender, raw, and full of hope. A must-listen for anyone who’s ever lost someone while living far from “home,” or loves someone who has.Check out Moira's grief coaching community and services here: https://www.griefspan.com/about @greifspaneducation

This week on The Global Girlfriend, we sit down with Sofia, a Portuguese event producer whose leap of faith took her from the sunshine of Lisbon to the hustle of London. We talk about what it really means to start over in a new city: the loneliness, the late nights, and the unexpected joys that come with carving out a life abroad. From volunteering at a festival in Albania to building a thriving freelance career in one of the world’s busiest cities, Sofia shares how courage, community, and a little chaos shaped her journey.Whether you’ve ever dreamed of moving to a new country or just love stories of women chasing bold adventures, this episode will remind you that home isn’t always where you start, it’s where you grow.www.theglobalgirlfriend.comwww.sofiamariz.com