The Layover is a behind-the-scenes series where I step from behind the mic to rap about the creative process as Black Expat Stories evolves from an ethnographic podcast into a global docuseries. It’s my opportunity to invite you into the journey — to witness the big wins, the tough lessons, and the crucial conversations fueling the Blaxit movement.
I can’t stop thinking about the conversation I just had while recording for Black Expat Stories because it was the kind of conversation that leaves you reevaluating your own metrics for success.
My upcoming guest, Nicole Brewer, has been living abroad for 16 years on a $44K salary, and somehow, her life feels richer than most folks I know making three times that.
She’s a teacher, a writer, and a travel influencer who has been living abroad for the past 16 years - first in South Korea, now in Oman.
I first learned of her story through a recent CBNC Make It Millennial Money highlight she was featured in.
I was so inspired and intrigued by it that I reached out and asked if she would like to share more in-depth conversation around her journey abroad.
Nicole graciously accepted my invite and we had such a rich conversation.
I jokingly said she’s one of the OGs because she moved overseas way before the idea of the Blaxit even became a hashtag or a trend. She said she’s been hearing that a lot lately. Because it’s true!
So for this episode of THE LAYOVER, I wanted to share some gems from our conversation while they’re still fresh on my mind.
Season 2 of Black Expat Stories is heating up and I’m having THE BEST TIME recording these conversations for you!
Nicole’s full episode of Black Expat Stories is coming soon, and trust me, you’ll want to catch it when we drop it. So stay tuned!
A few things I’m still pondering:
What if the goal wasn’t more money… but more life?
What if “freedom” isn’t something we earn, but something we choose?
And what stories do we need to hear more of — to remind us that there’s more than one way to be free?
Listening to Nicole reminded me that alignment can be louder than ambition.
Living abroad has shown me that.
Above all, though, it’s shown me what it means to be rich in every way that matters — regardless of what’s in your bank account.
-Courtney
Resources and More Ways to Stay Connected
Subscribe to the Beauty in the Blaxit
To receive new posts directly in your inbox, and to support my work, please subscribe!
Watch Black Expat Stories: The Ethnography Series
Curious about what it’s really like to live abroad? Black Expat Stories brings you the unfiltered, inspiring, and unforgettable journeys of those pioneering America’s Next Great Migration: The Blaxit. We’re capturing some of the most riveting stories about international living—told by Black expats and immigrants. Click to watch now!
Blaxit Soundtrack & Soul Work Journal
Whether you're pondering making a move abroad or reflecting on what freedom truly means for you, this beautiful blend of curated music and guided prompts will help you chart your path - from decision to departure. Download it for free now.
Find Thriving Black Expat Communities
Thinking about making a move abroad and want find our where your people are? Check out my curated guide: 14 Countries With THRIVING Black Expat Communities.
Follow me on Instagram
For more daily musings.
Share this post