Nearly twenty years after meeting during a study abroad program in Bilbao, Mandy reconnects with her longtime friend Bea to reflect on how living in Spain shaped both of their lives. They discuss cultural differences between Spain and America, lessons learned through travel, regional identity, friendship across borders, and how stepping outside your comfort zone can change the way you see the world.
In this episode:
- Reconnecting After Years [03:02]
- How We Met in Bilbao [03:51]
- Raising Kids Multilingual [06:17]
- Host Family Memories [07:49]
- Protests and Basque Spirit [08:34]
- Stereotypes and Spanish Dialects [11:12]
- Meet Bea [15:33]
- Food Culture and Tapas Life [17:39]
- Siesta Slow Living [23:58]
- Growing Up in Spain [27:37]
- Early Travel Independence [30:25]
- Getting Robbed and Travel Smarts [34:04]
- Europe Travel Mindset [39:52]
- Basque Identity Loyalty [41:52]
- Multilingual Europe Reality [46:58]
- First America Trips Chicago [50:11]
- Big City Freedom Vibes [52:56]
- Work Travel US Culture [55:51]
- Iowa Small Town Warmth [59:57]
- Travel Changes Worldview [01:02:44]
Why it matters:
From siestas and family traditions to travel mishaps and lasting connection, this conversation is full of perspective, humor, and heart.
Wildly Recommended:
Reflection Question:
Where might stepping outside your comfort zone open the door to a new perspective, connection, or version of yourself?
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