In the inaugural episode of the Village Voices podcast, host DJ shares his personal journey from Trinidad to living abroad in Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand. He reflects on the challenges he faced, including the loss of his father, the responsibilities that followed, and the pivotal moments that led him to pursue a life of travel and teaching. Through his experiences, DJ emphasizes the importance of resilience, seizing opportunities, and learning from adversity, aiming to inspire others to carve their own paths.

Key Takeaways

The journey of migration often begins with a personal story.

Facing loss can lead to unexpected responsibilities and growth.

Traveling abroad can be a transformative experience.

Opportunities for teaching abroad are often underexplored in the Caribbean.

Resilience is key in overcoming life's challenges.

It's important to seek out information and resources when planning to travel.

Every challenge can lead to a valuable lesson or opportunity.

In this special first episode of Village Voices, the mic flips as DJ, host of the podcast and seasoned Trinidadian expat, is interviewed by Adana Philip about his new guidebook, Unlocking Southeast Asia.

From the decision to leave Trinidad and Tobago to the highs, lows, and lessons of living across Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand, DJ opens up about what it truly means to start over in a foreign land. This isn’t just a book about travel. It’s a story of transformation, cultural connection, and boldly stepping into the unknown.

Tune in as DJ opens up about:

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  What inspired him to leave Trinidad and Tobago

• How he navigated culture shock, language barriers, and moments of growth

• The real-life stories, tips, and truths woven into his book

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  Whether you’re thinking of moving abroad, chasing a dream, or just curious about life outside the norm, this episode is your invitation to explore.