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

Redefining the "Trailing Spouse" Experience with Annegret Bertsch, CPC

Gaia Striano - a TCK raising TCKs Season 2 Episode 31

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0:00 | 51:02

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In this episode, I’m joined once again by Annegret Bertsch, a Certified Professional Coach, for a thoughtful conversation about the realities of accompanying a partner abroad and the complex emotions, challenges, and opportunities that can come with it. 

Together, we explore why the term “trailing spouse” often feels limiting and discuss how accompanying partners can reclaim their identity, purpose, and sense of belonging while navigating life overseas.

Annegret shares both personal and professional insights, offering practical advice, encouragement, and a fresh perspective for anyone living an international life.


In This Episode We Discuss:

  • Why many people dislike the term trailing spouse
  • The identity shifts that often accompany international moves
  • Navigating career interruptions and personal reinvention
  • Building community and finding purpose abroad
  • Common emotional challenges accompanying partners face
  • Practical strategies for adapting to life in a new country
  • The importance of self-compassion during transitions
  • How international experiences can lead to unexpected growth


Connect with Annegret here:

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Until next time, on Quiero un Panino con Cheese. ❤️


If this conversation about Third Culture Kids, global parenting, identity, belonging, and raising multicultural children resonated with you, I'd love your support.

Please subscribe to the podcast, leave a rating or review, and share this episode with someone navigating international life, raising globally mobile children, or searching for where they truly belong.

Together, we can help more globally mobile families feel understood, connected, and at home—wherever they are in the world.

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