Quiero un Panino con Cheese - A Podcast for TCKs and Multicultural Families

Ever tried answering the question “Where are you from?” and gave a 10-minute monologue? Ever caught yourself switching between three languages in the middle of a sentence? Ever wondered what home really means when you’ve had more than one?

If so, welcome to Quiero un Panino con Cheese, the podcast for parents, kids, and families living the beautiful chaos of multicultural life.

Season 2 will be hosted by Gaia Striano, a TCK mom who has raised 3 TCKs across borders, cultures, and languages.

This show explores the joys and challenges of Third Culture Kids—kids who grow up between cultures, languages, and identities.

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Quiero un Panino con Cheese - A Podcast for TCKs and Multicultural Families

TCK Stories with Chiara

August 13, 2025 • Gaia and Hazel • Season 1 • Episode 10

0:00 | 42:03

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In today’s episode of our series, TCK STORIES , we sit down with Chiara — Gaia’s middle child and a true Third Culture Kid. Born in Paris to Italian parents, Chiara's journey spans multiple countries: from Rome to Madrid, then across the ocean to the U.S. for college and work, and now back to Spain.

Chiara opens up in a raw and heartfelt conversation about what it’s like to grow up feeling like an outsider, navigating identity, and the challenges of reverse culture shock after returning to Europe.

We talk about:
✨ Growing up with a sense of not fully belonging
✨ How being a TCK has shaped her identity and worldview
✨ The complicated question: "Where are you from?"
✨ Navigating friendships and explaining her multicultural background
✨ Long-distance guilt and adjusting to life back home
✨ Her best advice for parents raising TCKs

Whether you're a TCK yourself or know someone who is, this episode is a must-listen. Chiara’s story is honest, reflective, and deeply relatable for anyone navigating cultural complexity and change.

Mentioned in the episode: Find and follow TCK Global on Instagram

Please hit the follow button and enter this crazy, multilingual, international world and explore these questions and so much more as I open up about my personal experiences over a cup of coffee, Americano, espresso, cafe con leche, or whatever gets you moving!

For more, please follow me also on Instagram at Quiero un Panino con Cheese