The New to Canada Podcast

Recently, I hosted a live online event, my ‘Moving to Canada’ party! Not only was it SO much fun to meet and get to know you all in person, but it was also PACKED with so much value. It seemed crazy not to publish it here on the show for you all to experience... I’m joined by Career coach, Michelle Ashley, and together we tackle the TWO biggest areas of struggle that I see newcomers to Canada face, again and again: If you listen to just ONE episode of this podcast, this is the one. I’m so excited to share all this advice with you. Links & Resources: Learn more https://thenewcomercollective.com/canada-tips/ free webinar: "Navigating the Job Market with Clarity and Strategy"Learn More Use free online AI tool to scan your resume and get actionable tips to improve it: Jobscan.co

Let’s dive deep into the darker side of moving abroad… When you move to a new country, your mental health isn’t really your first priority. You’ve got immigration paperwork to complete, accommodation to find, and job searching to do… BUT expat mental health is a topic that, in my opinion, is NOT spoken about enough. The biggest lesson I’ve learnt since starting this podcast is that the majority of us struggle - and the emotional rollercoaster can take us by surprise as we rebuild our lives in a new place. Insecurity, loneliness, shame, regret… These are just some of the emotions that many of us face. SO for this episode, I’m joined by a very special guest - Gabriela Encina - A licensed psychologist with over 20 years of experience helping over 400 people find happiness after their big move. Together, we chat about where to even START when it comes to acknowledging and tackling your emotional struggles. We discuss the most common challenges that Gabriela sees her clients face (guilt, self-sabotage, dependency...) and we finish off with some deep thoughts on homesickness & culture shock. Links & Resources: Gabriela's Website: gabriela-encina.com Connect with Gabriela on LinkedIn: Click here Join the New to Canada Academy: Learn more Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! https://thenewcomercollective.com/canada-tips/ Follow me on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com

If you’ve ever worked in the United Kingdom (no matter what nationality you are), you have paid into the UK State Pension. Once you move away, say to Canada, you might think that those payments are simply lost, or like me, you’re unsure what can even be done from overseas… Good news is, I’m joined in this episode by Ian Andexser, a fellow Brit in Canada and chairman of the Canadian Alliance of British Pensioners (CABP). He’s here to shed light on how you can “buy back” missing years of contributions since moving abroad and still receive a good payout when you reach pension age - Despite no longer living in the UK! Ian also discusses the ongoing “frozen” pension issue, a problem that is costing pensioners in Canada hundreds of thousands of pounds, as well as the ways that CABP is lobbying the UK government for change. You don’t want to miss: PLUS, the fight against non-indexation of pension payments based on a pensioner’s country of residence - and an optimistic look to the future. Links & Resources: britishpensions.com/Check your State Pension age: https://www.gov.uk/state-pension-age hereLearn morehttps://thenewcomercollective.com/canada-tips/ @TheNewcomerCollective TheNewcomerCollective.com

If you’re inspired by “money mindset” podcasts, this is the episode for you! There comes a time in your immigration journey when you’ll start looking to the future and thinking about how to build your wealth in Canada long-term. This episode’s guest, Tomisin Salam, is originally from Lagos, Nigeria, and moved to Canada in 2011 to pursue his entrepreneurial dreams. Together, we chat about the art of taking educated risks and grabbing the endless opportunities that Canada has to offer. Tomisin talks us through his journey from selling clothes out of the trunk of his car to now being the CEO of his own FinTech company, FiatMatch - (An initiative that helps immigrants navigate the financial challenges of living in a new country) - and how you can start to build additional revenue streams too. You don’t want to miss: PLUS, the common scams and financial fraud that you should watch out for in Canada… Links & Resources: Click herefiatmatch.comimmigrantlibrary.comLearn morehttps://thenewcomercollective.com/canada-tips/@TheNewcomerCollectiveTheNewcomerCollective.com

As new residents and citizens of Canada, it is so important for us to learn about and become allies for its Indigenous Peoples. First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples have been living in what is now Canada for thousands of years, and they each have unique histories, languages, cultural practices, and spiritual beliefs. We newcomers are now lucky enough to call this beautiful country our home - but we must remind ourselves that we are living on their land. In this episode, I’m joined by Danielle and Jamie-Leigh, who come to us from RAVEN Trust, a not-for-profit that raises legal defense funds to assist Indigenous Peoples. They also have a fantastic online video course called Home on Native Land that you can take for FREE to start your learning. In this episode, we discuss the history of colonization in Canada, including the definitions of Terra Nullius, the Doctrine of Discovery, and the Indian Act. We also speak about the common misconceptions about Indigenous peoples, as well as the ongoing conflict over broken treaties. I ask Danielle and Jamie-Leigh whether Indigenous Peoples welcome immigrants and refugees to Canada, as well as what they think about the term “Canadian”. They also share some of the ways that newcomers to Canada can contribute to ongoing reconciliation efforts. __ In Canada, September 30 is The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, or “Orange Shirt Day.” The day aims to raise awareness about the Indian Residential School System, where Indigenous children across Canada were ripped from their families, abused and thousands killed. It is also an opportunity to commit to the process of truth, justice, and reconciliation. You can learn more by clicking here. __ Links & Resources: Home on Native Land is a new, free online learning tool that is funny, honest, and accessible, providing a no-risk, comfortable way to understand Indigenous law, Canadian law, and their impact on the nation we call home. The series of 10 x 30-minute modules is the first public education initiative from RAVEN, an organization dedicated to supporting Indigenous rights. Join the New to Canada Academy: Learn more Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! https://thenewcomercollective.com/canada-tips/ Follow me on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com

Imagine moving across the world and, on a whim, entering an online contest called Canada’s Luckiest Newcomer… Now imagine getting the phone call that you’ve actually WON, out of thousands of entrants, and a bundle of life-changing prizes is on its way to you… including $20,000, free groceries for a year, 50,000 Air Miles, and more! That’s what happened to this episode’s guest, Hannibal from the Philippines. Tune in to this episode to hear all about Hannibal’s experience arriving in Canada as an international student during the pandemic, how it felt to win BIG, and what he’s been up to ever since. Links & Resources: Enter Canada’s Luckiest Newcomer for a chance to win $20,000 and more:Click here@hann.balHannibal Delos Reyes IIILearn morehttps://thenewcomercollective.com/canada-tips/ @TheNewcomerCollective TheNewcomerCollective.com

Searching for some camping tips as you head out into Canada’s National Parks this summer? Look no further! This episode’s guest, Audrey Levesque, is a Canadian camping expert who has worked with Parks Canada for over 20 years. Canada’s diverse NATURE is one of the main reasons that newcomers give for moving here and Parks Canada manages and protects many of the most special places it has to offer - 171 national historic sites, 47 national parks and 5 national marine conservation areas to be exact! Join us as Audrey shares her experiences working in some of Canada’s most beautiful and interesting spots, as well as her best advice for making the most of your campsite. You don’t want to miss: PLUS, all about the ‘Learn to Camp’ overnight program if you’d like your first camping experience to be with an expert. Links & Resources: www.pc.gc.ca https://reservation.pc.gc.ca/https://canoo.ca/Visitor Safety: https://parks.canada.ca/voyage-travel/securite-safety ‘Learn to Camp’ Program: https://parks.canada.ca/serapprocher-connect/ltc-dlc https://parks.canada.ca/voyage-travel/hebergement-accommodation/camping-101Learn morehttps://thenewcomercollective.com/canada-tips/ @TheNewcomerCollective TheNewcomerCollective.com

I'm back on the mic and officially a MOTHER to 8-week-old Sienna Joy - and what a whirlwind it has been... Tune in to this episode to hear exactly what went down (11 days overdue, multiple induction procedures, failed epidurals, doctor unavailable due to family emergency, the FULL birth story!) As well as my postpartum experience so far including my struggles with guilt and loneliness due to starting a family abroad and my best advice for when you do the same. Links & Resources: Blog Posthttps://thenewcomercollective.com/pregnancy-in-canada/ Freya: Virtual birth partner app:Download here. Peanut app:Download here. New to Canada Academy:Learn more 50 free tipshttps://thenewcomercollective.com/canada-tips/@TheNewcomerCollective TheNewcomerCollective.com

Roberto was just 18 years old when he moved from Mexico to Canada to be an international student. 17 years later, he’s built a successful career and family life in Canada and he's here to share with us the ups and downs of his journey. Today, Roberto gives back to the newcomer community through his work at the Institute for Canadian Citizenship. They run the Citizenship ceremonies that you’ll attend when you eventually get that all-important Canadian passport; as well as their incredible (FREE!) app Canoo - which grants Permanent Residents & Citizens free or discounted access passes to many of Canada’s best attractions, parks, and experiences. You don’t want to miss: PLUS, find out what happens when a brand-new Mexican immigrant tries to “hail” a Toronto public bus like a taxi… Links & Resources: Canoo appInstagramFacebookTwitterInstitute for Canadian CitizenshipInstagramFacebookTwitterLinkedInMilagroSeven Lives TacosLearn more thenewcomercollective.com/canada-tips/@TheNewcomerCollectiveTheNewcomerCollective.com

This episode’s guest is Ashley from Glasgow, Scotland, who moved to Burlington, Ontario in 2019. Ashley’s son was born in Scotland - Shortly followed by the birth of her daughter here in Canada. As she’s experienced both, Ashley is here to highlight the differences that she’s noticed when having a baby using the UK’s National Health Service vs. The Canadian Healthcare system. Together, we chat about: Links & Resources: Learn morehttps://thenewcomercollective.com/canada-tips/@TheNewcomerCollectiveTheNewcomerCollective.com

Newcomers often arrive in Canada full of confidence that they’ll soon find a job in their field and thrive in their new home… Unfortunately, it isn’t always that simple. The Canadian job search can be notoriously challenging and many immigrants suddenly find themselves doubting their experience and skills. This episode’s guest, Brenda Ngure from Kenya, is here to remind us of everything that we CAN offer employers and how we should never lose sight of the value we bring from overseas. Brenda was born in Nairobi, Kenya, and left to study in the United States where she lived for 18 years, before eventually moving to Toronto in 2016. She discusses with us the African immigrant experience, as well as her struggle with loneliness when she first arrived here. Links & Resources: AD: Access mental health support based on language and cultural background atPsymood.com Click hereWebsiteInstagramFacebookmytasteofafrica.comRead the blogLearn morehttps://thenewcomercollective.com/canada-tips/@TheNewcomerCollectiveTheNewcomerCollective.com

Ever wondered what the workplace culture in Canada is like? Turns out that there can be a lot of unexpected differences to get your head around when you first start your career here. From the amount of paid time off you are entitled to, to the famous American “hustle” culture, to how much time you spend socialising with your colleagues after work. In this episode, I’m joined by Lindsay McMahon, co-host of the immensely popular podcast All Ears English (which is downloaded a whopping 8 million times per month globally) to discuss… Together, we compare what various business etiquettes you can expect here in the Great White North, and how they may differ from other countries like the USA, Japan, and the UK. We chat about team collaboration, decision-making, and how employees can expect to receive feedback - As well as share some valuable tips for making connections with your colleagues if English is your second language. Links & Resources: Listen nowListen nowSave 20%promo code 'FLUENT'Click hereLearn morehttps://thenewcomercollective.com/canada-tips/@TheNewcomerCollectiveTheNewcomerCollective.com

Are you wondering what it’s like to live in small vs. big cities in Canada? Look no further than this episode’s guest, Mustafa from Pakistan. In this episode, he shares his experience of being an international student at Queen’s University and moving from crowded Karachi to the close-knit community of Kingston, Ontario. He also explains his career path as a fresh graduate in Canada and his experience living and working in Toronto. You don’t want to miss: Links & Resources: @paaniproject@tayabaorg@theexpatspak@PCAofKingston@mustafa23ansariClick hereJoin the New to Canada Academy:Learn morethenewcomercollective.com/canada-tips/@TheNewcomerCollectiveTheNewcomerCollective.com

Dreaming of moving to Vancouver Island? I don’t blame you! We have all seen the stunning ocean and mountain landscapes that British Colombia has to offer… This episode’s guest, Emme, is originally from Yorkshire in England and moved to Toronto in 2016. After spending several months in the bustling city, she decided to pack her bags and move solo to Vancouver Island in search of a more tranquil and scenic lifestyle. In this episode, we chat about what to expect from life on the island, the differences between British and Canadian driving, applying for the International Experience Canada (IEC) Work Permit, and much much more! You don’t want to miss: PLUS, What even is a “British” accent and the various nationalities we get mistaken for in Canada! Links & Resources: bit.ly/ELSAxTHENEWCOMERCOLLECTIVE https://elsaspeak.com/inf/thenewcomercollective/ @emmeoxford @emmeoxford Learn morehttps://thenewcomercollective.com/canada-tips/@TheNewcomerCollectiveTheNewcomerCollective.com

Join me as I share another of my passionate pep talks! This time, the topic is: Self-Sabotage. I'm sharing 5 behaviours and mindsets to avoid after moving abroad that could be setting back your progress and hindering your whole experience. You might not even know you're doing it... Let me know if you're guilty! Links & Resources: WIRELESSWAVE Black Friday Deals on smartphones, data plans, and accessories:https://direc.to/i3Hrthenewcomercollective.com/canada-tips/@TheNewcomerCollectiveTheNewcomerCollective.com

In this episode, I am reunited with poll winners Elizabeth from Colombia (ep. 9), Harisha from India (ep. 5), and Mike from Brazil (ep. 17) for a fun end of Series 3 get together. Get ready to laugh along with us as we share 2 truths, 1 lie about our native countries, as well as dive deep into more personal aspects of moving abroad - Such as adjusting to a different workplace culture, growing up with immigrant parents, tipping expectations, and finding the right balance between friends from your native country vs. Canada. You don’t want to miss: PLUS, an important update: Where you can meet Jason Momoa in Toronto… Links & Resources: thenewcomercollective.com/academy/thenewcomercollective.com/canada-tips/@TheNewcomerCollectiveTheNewcomerCollective.com

Looking for some job search tips? Luckily, this episode’s guest knows all about how best to navigate the Canadian job market! Hugo O’Doherty is originally from Ireland and he moved to Montreal in 2011. He is also a Product Manager at Moving2Canada: An invaluable resource for newcomers offering endless recruitment & immigration information. Together we chat about life in Montreal, the global Irish community, and how he and his wife had a baby during the pandemic! We also dive deep into resume tips, including how to adapt it for the Applicant Tracking System (ATS); as well as how to access the infamous “hidden job market” in Canada. You don’t want to miss: PLUS, some bonus homesickness tips! Links & Resources: Learn moreLinkedInTwitterLinkedInFacebookInstagramClick hereClick herethenewcomercollective.com/canada-tips@TheNewcomerCollectiveTheNewcomerCollective.com

Congratulations! Canadian Citizenship is the final step in your immigration journey… That passport will feel SO good when you finally have it in your hands. If you think you’re ready to start your application, this episode’s guest, Canadian Immigration Lawyer, Larry Butkowsky from Butkowsky Immigration Law, is here to help. *Disclaimer: This episode was recorded on August 5, 2022. Always check the IRCC website for the most up-to-date and accurate information. You don’t want to miss: Links & Resources: larrybutkowsky@sympatico.caLarry ButkowskyClick here Click herecanoo.ca thenewcomercollective.com/canada-tips/@TheNewcomerCollectiveTheNewcomerCollective.com

In 2016, Mike decided to abandon his Law career in Brazil to start a new adventure in Toronto. Fast forward to today, he’s now living an entirely different and unexpected life! He is a successful entrepreneur, has built a cool online community of English learners over on his Instagram @itsteachermike, and is expecting his second child with the love of his life! In this episode, he shares with us his honest (and often hilarious!) experiences with culture shock and how he has adapted from Brazilian to Canadian life. We also chat about how long it REALLY takes to feel settled in a new country, the unrealistic pressures newcomers put on ourselves to quickly build the “perfect” life, and how to stay positive if you feel out of place. Finally, Mike shares he and his wife’s experience of having a baby in Canada and what to expect from Canadian healthcare during the process. Links & Resources: @itsteachermikethenewcomercollective.com/canada-tips/@TheNewcomerCollectiveTheNewcomerCollective.com

Sometimes a story comes along that every person on earth should hear - The story of Tareq Hadhad and his family is one of them. A once displaced Syrian refugee, Tareq is now a Canadian CEO and a public speaker who tours the country to inspire audiences, advocate for immigration, humanize refugees, and share his family’s incredible story of survival. In this episode, he walks us through his family’s journey from a loving, peaceful life in their home city of Damascus, Syria, to losing everything overnight and fleeing for their lives. After 3 years as refugees with little opportunity or hope, Tareq and his family were offered a second chance - to start again in a small town in Nova Scotia, Canada. Listen to hear Tareq’s journey to becoming Canadian, the whirlwind of support and love he’s experienced from his new home, and how he and his father have built their successful chocolate company ‘Peace by Chocolate’ so that they can give back to those less fortunate than them. Links & Resources: Tareq Hadhad@tareqhadhadpeacebychocolate.caClick HereClick Herethenewcomercollective.com/canada-tips/@TheNewcomerCollectiveTheNewcomerCollective.com