Leaving Soon for Our First Contract

ITP - 123 We are joined by Monique and Jimmy, two teachers who packed up their lives in the U.S. and are now gearing up for a big move to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Their story kicks off at a job fair—those hectic, slightly awkward events where life-changing decisions are made in 30-minute interviews and coffee-fueled conversations. They share the twists and turns that led them to say yes to this new chapter, and all the serendipitous moments in between.

We also hear from Darian, who’s already living in Saudi, and offers the kind of real-talk you wish you’d hear more often—what family life actually looks like over there, how the culture feels on the ground, and how kids adjust when “home” gets redefined.

This conversation gets into it all—the nerves, the excitement, the never-ending to-do list before a big international move. There’s talk of cultural shifts, how Saudi Arabia is changing fast, and what that means for families like Monique and Jimmy’s. We talk about safety, schools, food, friendships, and those unexpected moments of connection that remind you why you took the leap in the first place.

There are laughs, a few deep breaths, and a lot of reflection—on parenting abroad, building a life in a new place, and figuring out how to thrive, not just survive. From funny travel stories to heartfelt moments about what it means to chase something new as a family, this episode is a reminder that moving overseas isn’t just about changing your location—it’s about changing your lens.

Chapters

(00:00) Introduction and Guest Welcome

(02:38) Monique and Jimmy's Journey to International Teaching

(05:37) Job Fair Experiences and Serendipity

(08:38) Finding the Right Fit in Saudi Arabia

(11:31) Living in Saudi Arabia: Insights from Darian

(14:36) Cultural Experiences and Family Life

(17:31) Navigating Life as Expats in Saudi Arabia

(21:33) Exploring Jeddah: A Family Adventure

(21:40) Cultural Insights and Gender Dynamics

(23:04) Safety and Freedom for Children

(26:44) Preparing for Life in Saudi Arabia

(31:01) Navigating the Relocation Process

(36:02) Balancing Work and Family Transitions

(36:14) Mid Break - Contact ITP

(41:06) Networking and Finding the Right Fit

(49:33) Preparing for the Move

(52:30) Navigating Emotions and Adjustments

(55:28) Cultural Identity and Home

(57:12) Experiences Abroad and Connection

(01:00:31) Packing and What Matters

(01:02:35) Adventures and Misadventures

(01:08:43) Final Thoughts and Reflections

The International Teacher Podcast is a bi-weekly discussion with experts in international education. New Teachers, burned out local teachers, local School Leaders, International school Leadership, current Overseas Teachers, and everyone interested in international schools can benefit from hearing stories and advice about living and teaching overseas.

Additional Gems Related to Our Show:

Greg’s Favorite Video From Living Overseas - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UQWKBwzF-hw

Signup to be our guest  https://calendly.com/itpexpat/itp-interview?month=2025-01

Our Website⁠ -  https://www.itpexpat.com/

Our FaceBook Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/itpexpat

⁠JPMint Consulting Website  - https://www.jpmintconsulting.com/

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