Abby and Ashley met at their MBA program at UC. They sit down and talk about transitions from New England (New Hampshire and Vermont) and they both owned small food based businesses. Abby has been in NZ for less than a year and still figuring out community.

Two bold American women, Nicki and Ashley sit down to discuss life in a culture that is more passive and humble. In this conversation, Nikki shares her journey from San Jose, California to New Zealand, detailing her experiences during the 2008 recession, exploring New Zealand, and the cultural differences she encountered. She discusses her relationships, parenting, and the healthcare system in New Zealand. The conversation highlights the importance of community, personal growth, and the unique aspects of life in New Zealand compared to her life in the United States.

takeaways

• Nikki moved to New Zealand due to the 2008 recession.
• She experienced a quarter-life crisis that led her to explore new opportunities.
• Nikki's adventures in New Zealand included traveling and exploring the North Island.
• She found the healthcare system in New Zealand to be supportive and accessible.
• She discusses the cultural differences in relationships and communication styles.
• Nikki reflects on her parenting experiences in New Zealand.
• She appreciates the quality of coffee and food in New Zealand.
• Nikki shares her thoughts on the importance of perspective in understanding different cultures.
• She expresses a sense of belonging and immersion in Kiwi culture.

In this episode, I interview Sarah, who shares her journeyof moving to New Zealand, her experiences with the culture, education system, and the challenges of navigating life in a new country. They discuss the importance of embracing the Māori language, the differences between Wellingtonand Christchurch, and the significance of outdoor adventures. Sarah also shares insights on the education system, visa pathways, disaster preparedness, and her experiences in sports and gender equity. The conversation concludes with advice for newcomers and reflections on the food culture in New Zealand. Sarah is finishing her PhD at UC!