How it started vs how it is going- with Ashley Russell, Part 2 (New Zealand) Artwork

hanna_worldwide&friends

This is a podcast about people who have left their home country to live abroad or have an abroad experience. There are so many different reasons why we choose to move countries and become an expat and so many interesting stories of amazing people. Having relatable struggles, amazing adventures and new beginnings! Be excited about getting to know great humans with individual experiences. It is about getting to know new cultures, learning about different countries, having compassion and inspiring people to follow their dreams. If you have any questions regarding a specific topic or if you want me to cover anything in particular in the podcast, please leave a comment or message me directly! Can't wait to hear from you! :) If you want to be a guest on my show or you want to work with me, please send an email to: hannaworldwideandfriends@outlook.com Love, Hanna

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How it started vs how it is going- with Ashley Russell, Part 2 (New Zealand)

March 01, 2025 • Hanna • Season 1 • Episode 51

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Hi everyone,

Please welcome back with me Ashley Russell from New Zealand who moved to the UK 1.5 years ago. She made a rare family visit over the Christmas holidays and I was fortunate enough to get her back on the show to talk about her new life in the UK.

The last time we spoke (Episode 13), she was preparing for the big move—full of excitement, hopes, and expectations. Now, she shares how reality has unfolded.

Adjusting wasn’t easy at first. Making friends took time, and she quickly realized her Kiwi humor didn’t always land the same way. The first few months felt lonely, but finding a church community changed everything. She’s also gained a new perspective on immigration, now understanding the challenges newcomers face when trying to connect in a new country.

Despite the struggles, Ashley has fallen in love with England’s landscapes, describing them as straight out of a fairytale—places she never imagined she’d actually live. She’s also cherished reconnecting with family, especially bonding with her grandma and her cousin’s baby.

Music, once a big dream for London, took a back seat as all her energy went into settling in. But now that she feels more at home, she’s ready to let her creativity flow again. When asked what didn’t meet expectations? Without hesitation—“the food.” And did she ever think of giving up? Never. Ashley’s stubborn determination kept her going, even on the tough days. Still, her love for New Zealand is undeniable, as she often finds herself daydreaming about home—its beaches, fields, and familiar comforts.

Tune in to hear Ashley’s reflections on expat life, personal growth, and what’s next on her journey!

Connect with her on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/asherlycurly/

Feel free to connect with me on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/hanna_worldwide_and_friends/

or email me under:
hannaworldwideandfriends@outlook.com

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https://www.buzzsprout.com/2110137
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Thank you so much for being here, I appreciate every single one of you!

Love,
Hanna