The “Spirit in the Material World” podcast is back!

It’s been a minute since I’ve interviewed some of my travel inspirations but all this talk post-election about Black women leaving the country really lit a fire under me. Social media has been full of Black women wondering if it’s finally time to leave the United States, as we are faced with the uncertainty of this incoming administration and with clear evidence of the country’s disrespect and disdain for us.

The day after the election a lot of folks were selling classes and expensive consultations about moving abroad to capitalize on people’s fear. With so much free and low-cost information available, I felt compelled to gather some of my trusted friends and colleagues to share some insight on what you should think about if you’re seriously thinking about moving abroad.

In this conversation with Raychelle Heath (currently in Costa Rica) and Twanna A. Hines (currently in Portugal), we discuss questions to ask yourself to decide if/where you should move, the joys and challenges of living outside of the United States, and what it means to be a Black American living in someone else’s country.

We covered A LOT because there’s so much to say and parse through. Our relationship with the United States is complicated, as is our relationship to our Americanness especially as Black Americans.

One of my favorite quotes was from Twanna: “We are the global majority.” It’s important we remember that where ever we go and regardless of how anyone makes us feel. And also this by Ray: “We have to stop centering ourselves.” She’s referring to how living abroad requires us to understand our privilege and identity in relationship to others in different countries and contexts. I’m telling you they were dropping gems and spitting facts!

These were a few takeaways from the discussion:

• Black women are increasingly seeking to leave the U.S. for better opportunities abroad.
• Social media has changed the way people share their expat experiences, often glamorizing the move.
• It’s essential to prioritize personal needs when choosing a new country to live in.
• Building community in a new place requires humility and a willingness to learn.
• Mental health plays a crucial role in the transition to living abroad.
• Gentrification can displace local communities and alter the cultural landscape of popular expat destinations.
• Learning the local language is vital for integration and community building.
• Traveling can be a way to explore personal identity and cultural connections.
• Finding joy in everyday experiences is a key aspect of living abroad.
• Self-discovery is an ongoing process that can be intensified by living in a new environment.

Have you been thinking about leaving the country? Let me know!