Sailing Couple, Ryan and Sophie, on Culture Shock, Mental Health, and Living an Unconventional Lifestyle

Sailing Couple, Ryan and Sophie, on Culture Shock, Mental Health, and Living an Unconventional Lifestyle

Author: Kristin Wilson | Traveling with Kristin March 14, 2023 Duration: 1:13:34

French-American couple, Ryan and Sophie, talk about the struggles and benefits of sailing the world and living an unconventional digital nomad lifestyle.

They shine light on why they left their jobs and home countries to travel, the challenges of dating someone from a different culture, and their experience buying and fixing up a sailboat to live in. Ryan and Sophie open up about the difficulty of navigating mental health issues amidst the chaos of living and traveling on a boat.

Despite the many challenges of sailing and even a reduction in income from transitioning to this location-independent lifestyle, Ryan and Sophie truly believe they made the right decision. 

Curious to know what life is like onboard? Thinking of hitting the high seas? Tune in to see if the sailing nomad lifestyle is right for you!

 

Episode 198 Special Offers: 

 

NEW YOUTUBE VIDEOS: 

EPISODE 198 TOPICS DISCUSSED/WHAT YOU'LL LEARN:

  • The story of how Ryan and Sophie met abroad.
  • Cultural differences in dating between the US, Sweden, and France.
  • Navigating the challenges of dating someone from a different culture.
  • The best parts of living in Sweden.
  • Working to live vs. Living to work.
  • Ryan's firsthand experience with reverse culture shock as an American expat.
  • The biggest reasons why people want to leave the US.
  • Things people don't realize until they travel.
  • Why they chose to live on a sailboat & What it's like to live and travel on a sailboat.
  • Strategies they used to transition from regular jobs to remote jobs.
  • The chaos and cost of living on a sailboat.
  • Things to consider when buying a boat.
  • The most and least expensive places to sail.
  • Maintaining your mental health while living on the sea.
  • Top 3 things you need to do before starting boat life.

 

QUESTIONS ANSWERED:

  • How did you get jobs working abroad in Sweden?
  • Where did you choose as a homebase in the world?
  • What was your inspiration behind living on a sailboat?
  • How did you quit your job before starting to travel?
  • Have you been able to maintain your income while traveling full-time?
  • How do you care for your mental health during times of chaotic travel?
  • Were there any surprises when you bought your boat?
  • What is the annual cost of living on a sailboat?
  • How many hours per week do you work on the boat?
  • What is the best way to get the internet on a boat?
  • What underrated travel destination surprised you?
  • What is your morning routine living on a sailboat?
  • And more!

 

RESOURCES

Resources for Digital Nomads:

 

Books Mentioned:

 

Related Podcasts:

 

Related Videos:

 

Ryan & Sophie's Top Sailing Destinations:

  • Azores
  • Madeira
  • Cape Verde
  • Bonaire

 

Connect with Ryan & Sophie:

 

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Support the Badass Digital Nomads Podcast:

 

A special thank you to Kat B for the 5-Star Review and Donation!

 

Become a Patron for $5/month at Patreon.com/travelingwithkristin

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Connect with Kristin: 

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Podcast descriptions may contain affiliate links of products and services we use and recommend at no additional cost to you.


There's a certain rhythm to building a life that isn't tied to a single address, and that's the beat Traveling with Kristin moves to. Hosted by Kristin Wilson, a veteran digital nomad who has been navigating the world as an entrepreneur for years, this podcast feels like a series of candid conversations with a friend who's already figured out a lot of the logistics so you don't have to. Each episode digs into the practicalities and the personal shifts that come with choosing a borderless existence. You'll hear honest discussions about the financial realities of retiring abroad, the unexpected challenges of working from a new time zone every few months, and the cultural nuances that you only learn by being there. It's not just about destination highlights; it's about the mindset and the mechanics of designing a sustainable international lifestyle. Kristin brings a grounded perspective, stripping away the glossy social media filter to talk about what global living actually requires-from visas and banking to building community and maintaining relationships on the road. If you're contemplating a permanent move overseas or simply want to weave more extended travel into your remote work, this podcast serves as an essential, deeply relatable guide. Tune in for a mix of solo reflections, interviews with others who've made the leap, and actionable advice that makes the world feel a little more accessible and your dreams a lot more possible.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

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