Bright lights can hide hard truths. We sit down with Mark Van Heerden, a South African guitarist who left home with his band after winning LA awards and chasing a label-fueled dream, only to land in a cramped Beverly Hills apartment, hustling tickets on Sunset and selling CDs by hand. The myth of Hollywood met the math of survival, and what followed is a rare, unfiltered look at how ambition, culture shock, and timing can collide for expats and artists alike.

Mark walks us through the grind behind the glamour: recording with a respected Manhattan Beach producer, learning the limits of indie distribution before streaming took off, and realizing that the “right” city isn’t always the right launchpad. He shares the lessons he’d apply today—why the Midwest might have been smarter for rock, how local scenes can nourish momentum, and how perception from afar often misses the small rooms and big disappointments. When the band splintered, each member reinvented: animation, touring production, academia, and a return to South Africa. Mark’s reinvention took a stunning turn.

A volunteer project filming a helicopter ride for a documentary opened a door to aviation. After scrubbing hangar floors and trading work for flight hours, Mark earned his wings and now manages a San Diego operation with five helicopters, serving the power grid and fighting wildfires. It’s a story about purpose over applause, competence over clout, and the radical hope of a second calling. We also talk about the pull of South Africa—family, food, landscapes—and the complex truth of home when your heart lives in two places.

If you’re drawn to stories of reinvention, expat life, and creative grit, this one’s for you. Listen, subscribe, and share with someone who’s weighing a big leap. And if this episode moved you, leave a review—your words help others find the show.

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What does it mean to truly come full circle in your expatriate journey? Rob Malitz reveals the unexpected twists and turns of a life spent bridging two continents while never losing sight of his South African heart.

Rob's story begins like many others – a young professional heading to London for what he calls "the partying year." But his path diverges from the typical narrative when he decides to return to South Africa after experiencing crime in London. "If I'm going to be surrounded by these elements, I'd rather actually go home to the country I love," Rob explains, challenging the common assumption that people leave South Africa primarily for safety reasons.

The conversation takes us through Rob's remarkable career transition from "boring old accountant" to successful recruitment entrepreneur. His candid account of founding Red Eye Recruitment during the credit crisis – "My business plan suggested nobody would be silly enough to do it" – reveals the blend of courage and strategic thinking that has defined his professional life. Now operating internationally, his business serves a unique purpose: helping South Africans gain global experience without permanently leaving, while also assisting those who wish to return home.

Perhaps most compelling is Rob's evolving definition of success. Where once it centered on material wealth, it now encompasses family well-being, respect from colleagues, health, and the flexibility to enjoy life. His advice for expatriates – "You are a guest in their country" – speaks to the humility required to thrive abroad while maintaining your South African identity. As Rob puts it, "When you arrive back in South Africa, part of me reattaches to myself," capturing the enduring connection many expatriates feel to their homeland regardless of where life takes them.

Whether you're contemplating a move overseas, currently living abroad, or considering a return to South Africa, Rob's journey offers valuable perspective on crafting a life that honors both your roots and your wings. Join us for this insightful conversation about what it truly means to be a South African abroad.

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What happens when a devoted Cape Town resident who "would never leave South Africa" finds herself making a new home in a small Spanish town? Simona's story isn't your typical expat tale of fleeing problems, but rather a thoughtful journey toward family and opportunity.

After both her adult children settled in Europe, Simona and her husband reconsidered their future. The growing gap between earning in rands versus euros combined with the pull of family abroad led them to Spain's beautiful Costa Blanca region. What they discovered there went far beyond financial considerations.

The most profound revelation came about a year into their new life: "I didn't even realize how much fear I was living in until I stopped just looking around me and clutching my bag," Simona shares. Watching someone leave their phone unattended at a café table—and finding it still there upon return—highlighted the dramatic shift in daily security and peace of mind.

Despite Italian heritage that simplified visa concerns, challenges remained. Spanish bureaucracy proved nightmarish, requiring legal help despite EU citizenship. Learning Spanish continues four years later (with amusing mishaps, like discovering the Italian word for butter means "donkey" in Spanish). And yes, those legendary Spanish siestas are absolutely real!

The move enabled Simona to finally pursue her dream of writing children's books, with her first publication coming this year. Meanwhile, her programmer husband continues working remotely, allowing them a comfortable life in their small town where everything is walkable.

For those contemplating a similar move, Simona offers wisdom: "It's not a question of the grass being greener on one side or the other. It's what you bring to it." Her experience shows that expat life isn't about escaping problems but about creating new possibilities—sometimes in unexpected places.

Want to hear more stories like Simona's? Subscribe to South Africans Abroad and join our community of global South Africans forging new paths while keeping their roots. Share your thoughts or your own expat journey with us at saabroadpodcast.com.

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Roy Bowden's journey from the sun-drenched beaches of Port Shepston to the snow-covered forests of Sweden offers a fascinating window into the dramatic contrasts of expatriate life. As a boat builder who once helped prepare the first blind man to sail solo from South Africa to Australia, Roy's adventurous spirit has carried him through multiple countries before finding an unexpected home in Scandinavia.

The cultural shift proves as dramatic as the climatic one. Roy vividly describes the transition from South Africa's open, spontaneous social culture to Sweden's more structured, reserved society where "you wouldn't just pitch up at somebody's house on a weekend." This adjustment represents one of the most significant challenges for South Africans abroad – recalibrating expectations around friendship and community building.

Brexit introduced a bureaucratic nightmare that continues to shadow Roy's life in Sweden. Despite being married to a Swedish citizen for nine years, the end of EU freedom of movement left him in a precarious legal position, highlighting how international politics can dramatically impact individual lives without warning. His four-year battle to secure legal residency serves as a cautionary tale about the complex, shifting landscape of international immigration.

Yet amidst these challenges, Roy finds profound joy in Sweden's seasonal contrasts, comprehensive social systems, and the vibrant community of 12,000 South Africans who have created support networks across the country. From annual camping weekends to homemade biltong, these expatriates maintain their cultural identity while adapting to Swedish life – embodying Roy's philosophy that "the grass is greener where you water it."

For anyone contemplating a similar journey, Roy's story offers both inspiration and practical wisdom. Success abroad requires thorough preparation, realistic expectations, and complete commitment to adaptation. The expatriate experience isn't simply about finding greener grass – it's about learning to cultivate your own garden in foreign soil.

Join our vibrant community of expat South Africans on Facebook by searching "South Africans Abroad Podcast" and become part of the conversation. If you love our show and want to support these unique stories, visit saabroadpodcast.com to become a sponsor.

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Step into the electrifying world of slap fighting with our special guest, Danie "The Pitbull" van Heerden, a name that resonates power and prowess in Las Vegas's slap fighting championship circuit. Discover how Danie became the number two ranked super heavyweight globally, fueled by his roots in Walkerville, South Africa, and a rich history in boxing and mixed martial arts. From the early days of his fighting family to the unexpected career pivot during the COVID-19 pandemic, Danie candidly shares the psychological nuances of slap fighting, including the strategic importance of winning that crucial coin toss.

We also spotlight Danie's ambitious journey in the slap championships, his stepping stone toward life-altering success in the USA. His story is one of aspiration and determination as he navigates the challenges of relocating his family while dreaming of inspiring fellow South Africans. With Slap fighting's rising popularity and potential to become a major sporting event in South Africa, we explore how this sport can mirror the success of UFC and WWE. Catch the fervor and passion as Danie illuminates the resilient spirit of South Africans striving for global recognition in this gripping episode.

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Journey with us as we uncover the remarkable story of Hayley Reichert, a dedicated South African living in England. What drove her to leave her homeland for the UK? And more importantly, what sparked her fierce passion for advocating change from across the seas? Listen as Hayley recounts the transformation from a mere adventurer to a relentless advocate involved with the DA abroad, overseas voting, and key legislative lobbying efforts. Her narrative of aiding South Africans stranded during the pandemic and her vision of returning to contribute directly is both inspiring and a testament to the power of dedicated individuals.

But that's not all—we tackle the tough challenges of promoting change in South Africa amidst widespread apathy and negative news. Hear about the entrepreneurial spirit alive in communities like Soweto and the initiatives aiming to bridge gaps between South African expatriates and local businesses. We also delve into the emotional tales of repatriation during global crises, the unyielding efforts to reunite families, and the critical role of networking. The episode concludes with a hopeful outlook, envisioning a united and prosperous South Africa driven by education, job readiness, and healing racial divides. Don't miss this compelling episode packed with stories of resilience, connection, and hope.

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Ever wondered what it's like to swap the sunny streets of Johannesburg for the icy expanses of Alaska? Join us as we chat with Candice Vialpando, a vivacious South African expat, who shares her fascinating journey from Benoni to Anchorage. Listen as Candice recounts her transcontinental love story, beginning with meeting her American husband in South Africa and navigating the complexities of a long-distance relationship, which ultimately led her to a new life in the United States. After nearly a decade in Nevada, she and her family sought a more sustainable lifestyle, finding their paradise amidst Alaska's stunning landscapes.

Candice offers an intriguing glimpse into adapting to Alaskan life, including the culture shock and unique wildlife encounters that come with the territory. Experience the thrill and challenges of living alongside nature as Candice tells stories of moose munching on Halloween pumpkins and the necessity of bear spray and special trash locks. She also dives deep into the immigration process, from securing a K-3 visa for marriage to the ongoing pursuit of citizenship, highlighting the patience and resilience required for such a monumental move.

Discover the transformative journey Candice has undergone, including her return to school for a master's degree and the sense of community she found in Anchorage. She candidly shares the emotional ups and downs of being far from family and the enriching cultural exchanges between South Africa and Alaska. Candice reflects on the freedom and safety of her new home, the economic challenges, and the benefits of the Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD). Her experiences in early childhood education and her husband’s role with the Bureau of Land Management provide a comprehensive look at life in the Last Frontier, offering invaluable insights for anyone considering a similar adventure.

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Embark on a magical creative odyssey with Trevor Romain, the South African-born American mastermind whose pen breathes life into children's stories and animations. Grappling with his own early academic hurdles, Trevor's rise to international acclaim as an author and animator is a testament to the transformative power of an inspiring English teacher and a relentless writing discipline. Our conversation weaves through the enchanting process of extracting wonder from the mundane and how Trevor's childhood in South Africa has left an indelible mark on his narrative flair. His journey from words to visuals encapsulates not just the evolution of a storyteller but also the tenacity needed to bring vibrant, educational animations to life.

Transitioning across continents, Trevor illuminates the striking contrasts between the advertising landscapes of his homeland and the United States, where he sought the allure of the bustling industry. Music, a muse that often guides his creative spirit, weaves through our discussion on crafting stories. But it's not all smooth sailing; Trevor opens up about the hurdles of establishing oneself amidst the industry giants, debunking myths of American studios, and the resilience required to thrive in the face of cultural and professional upheaval. His anecdotes paint a picture of an artist navigating the tumultuous seas of a career transition during a politically charged epoch.

As we wrap up, the complex tapestry of expat life comes into sharp focus. Trevor shares the poignant tug-of-war between the successes of a new life in America and the yearning for South African roots—a duality many expatriates know all too well. From Rugby World Cup nostalgia to the delicate dance of identity between an accent and assimilation, our dialogue journeys into the heart of what it means to belong. Tune in and be captivated by the stories of someone living between two worlds, intertwining a tale of personal growth, cultural richness, and the universal quest for a place to call home.

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Moving to a new country is an epic saga of its own, and for Sam, our vibrant guest from South Africa now thriving in California, it was a tale filled with love, and the unexpected call to serve. As she unfolds her story, you'll be transported from the excitement of meeting her US Marine husband in Pretoria to the sobering complexities of immigration, all leading her to don the uniform of the US Navy. Amidst the intricacies of job hunting and proving the legitimacy of her marriage, Sam's resilience shines, offering a raw look into the emotional and financial sacrifices that come with chasing the American dream.

Our conversation with Sam is a masterclass in adaptation and the pursuit of joy amidst change. You'll hear how she's fostering her children's South African heritage, keeping it alive across the seas while they carve out their American lives. With her South African laughter mingling with the California sun, Sam's anecdotes about finding community in unexpected places, from roller derby tracks to motorcycle clubs, will inspire you to seek out your own sense of belonging, no matter where you find yourself. Join us as we celebrate the spirit of this South African expat, whose story of transformation echoes the boundless strength of the human spirit.

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Embarking on a journey that would transform their lives, Tania Plakonouris and her family waved goodbye to the familiar landscapes of South Africa for the quaint, uncharted territories of central Portugal. As Tania shares her family's extraordinary adventure, we're reminded of the incredible courage it takes to uproot one's life in pursuit of new beginnings. Imagine leaving behind a successful career, only to find yourself embracing the simplicity of housekeeping or the craft of carpentry—Tania's narrative is a moving chronicle of humility and resilience that speaks to the heart of every listener.

Throughout our conversation with Tania, we uncover the rich tapestry of experiences that come with settling into a new culture—from the late-night social buzz that contrasts the early sunsets of their former home, to the chilly European winters that test their warm African blood. These stories of adaptation are the threads that weave together the vibrant community of South Africans in Portugal, bound by the spirit of 'Ubuntu' and the shared pursuit of a fulfilling expat life. As Tania and her family continue to navigate this beautiful yet challenging landscape, their journey serves as an awe-inspiring blueprint for resilience, community, and the eternal quest for home.

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Embarking on a new chapter across the ocean, Nicole Woodstock shares her colorful journey from the bustling world of South African advertising to the sunny shores of Florida, where motherhood and entrepreneurship await. With wit and wisdom, she peels back the layers of the American dream, revealing the complexities of immigration, the decisions that steered her family from Europe to the U.S., and the intricate dance of cultural adaptation. Nicole's tale is not just one of change, but a lesson in resilience, as she navigates the nuances of a new market with her business while holding onto the essence of her South African roots.

Our conversation with Nicole is a vibrant tapestry of experiences, blending the excitement of American sports prospects for her children, with the sobering realities of a healthcare system worlds away from what she knew. We traverse the amusing twists of language that bewilder and delight, and explore the value of educational opportunities that America offers her family. Join us for this episode that is as much about the joys and pitfalls of expatriate life as it is about the power of community, and don't forget to connect with fellow listeners in our South Africans Abroad Podcast Facebook group to keep the conversation going.

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Imagine  starting a South African business in a place where South Africans are a rarity, In today's episode, we sit down with  Sacha who's venture is dedicated to the art of crafting Biltong.  It's a tale of bravery, resilience, and the irresistible power of sharing a piece of one's culinary heritage in the most unexpected corners of the world, Columbia.

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In this episode, we sit down with Edu Lourens from Australia to explore his globetrotting adventures across different continents. Join us as we uncover his top travel destination and discover the catalyst that ignited his passion for exploration.

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On this weeks episode we chat to Dr Kayleigh Aymon about life as a chiropractor in Switzerland, we find out if it's all it's cracked up to be.

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Join us in this episode as we explore the captivating journey of Adrian Bresler, a compassionate missionary hailing from the vibrant landscapes of South Africa. we explore Adrian's path as he spreads  his South African roots but also discover the love of his newfound home. Tune in as we uncover the unique challenges and triumphs of a South African making a remarkable difference in the heart of Minnesota.

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Join us on this captivating episode as we delve into the remarkable journey of Kim Kruger, a Texan native from South Africa who embarked on a whirlwind romance spanning continents. Kim's story unveils the incredible adventures and challenges she faced while navigating the uncharted waters of a 90-day fiancé visa.

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In this captivating episode, we explore James's path from humble beginnings to becoming a prominent figure in the safari industry. With his passion for wildlife and a determination to share the wonders of the South African nature, James built a safari company called "Find your Africa" that offers unforgettable adventures to eager travelers.
We also chat about how he got his green card and what advice he has for couples thinking of getting married. 

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This week we chat to Steve Meiring  about life in the Carnival.We discus the possibilities of working abroad for the Carnival with an HB visa giving opertunities to people wanting to explore the USA without committing to expensive green cards. 

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"The writing was on the wall mate" we head down under to chat to Paul an old school friend who has been in Australia going on 29 years. We ask the questions and discover if it was the right move.This one was a real fun one.

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Life in England has Thandi and her family feeling safe, where the kids can play without worries and life seems normal, But at what price and will Thandi ever go back?

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This week we explore the aupair visa and touch on the marriage visa.Juanita tells us how Texas has become home and how living with 7 kids she wouldn't have it any other way.

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This week we go to a Mediterranean island with a  population of just over 500 000 people, the island of Malta. We chat to Ryan Scerri who talks about how different life is on an island with minimal space and extreme temperatures.

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We chat to Nick Short in Canada this week and learn that he runs a multi million dollar charity helping children in Africa. Nick we salute you. 

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We talk to Martin in New York, although he has lived in over 7 countries growing up. He tells us his favorite places to live as well as his battle with the Visa process.

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This week we talk to Laren Van Der Westhuizen all the way in Austria. He talks about the crime free world and has an interesting story on how he ended up in Austria of all places, and almost without his luggage.

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This week we go to San Fransisco to speak with Mano who has been here a long time to get his take on living in the Bay Area and why he made the move.

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Our episode this week explores the Hollywood world of acting and how different the scene is over in the USA. We share celebrity stories and discus how coming over to America is such a humbling experience 

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This week we chat to Chris Wright, owner of The Wright Law Firm in LA. Chris talks us through the visa options, and answers some frequently asked questions.

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This week we travel to Queensland Australia to chat with Kent Roberts, someone who left  a dream job in South Africa to pursue greener pastures. We find out what he is doing now and most importantly was it the right decision. 

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We talk to Lyla Illing a singer songwriter from Johannesburg, now residing in New York. Lyla talks about the what her music represents and how she overcame difficulties in her life.
Chatting to Lyla was very inspirational and her story is certainly a different one, Enjoy !

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We talk to Steve about the flooring game and explore the O1 visa, not sure it's all it's cracked up to be.

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This week we talk to Josette Eales an aspiring actor, producer and writer living in Hollywood. Is the green card lottery real? this episode reveals the truth behind the myth.

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This week we talk to Nick Boraine an actor from South Africa who lives in Los Angeles.

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