First up, there are some strange audio issues later in the episode. It sounds like we have a ghost in the room, but I think it was the software trying to reduce the background noise. I'll try a quieter room next time!

This introductory episode sets the stage for a podcast that explores the emotional, social, and cultural dimensions of leaving one’s home country and starting a new life abroad — beyond the usual logistical topics like visas and taxes. Liam (now living in southern Spain) and Tom (living near Monaco in southern France) reflect on:

• Their friendship from childhood in West London.
• Contrasting reasons and methods for leaving the UK – Liam driven by boredom and the desire for change, Tom prompted by his partner’s job opportunity.
• Emotional and cultural challenges of settling into new countries.
• Family immigrant backgrounds (Irish for Liam, Italian for Tom).
• The fantasy vs. reality of moving abroad.
• How their upbringings, careers, and relationships influenced their choices.
• Cultural observations and humorous stories about relocation.
• Tribute to Brian Wilson and the emotional weight of cultural figures passing.

The episode is informal, reflective, and peppered with tangents that highlight their personalities and conversational chemistry. It's meant to feel like listening in on an honest chat between two old friends who have taken bold steps in life and want to explore what it really feels like to start over.

Chapters:

00:00 – Opening Banter & Recording Nerves

00:42 – What the Podcast Is About

01:37 – Meet the Hosts

02:55 – Life in Spain vs. France

03:55 – Family Backgrounds & Heritage

04:53 – How Liam Moved to Spain (Loot Van & All)

05:17 – Childhood Influences & Media Fantasies

06:48 – Tribute to Brian Wilson & Glastonbury

09:19 – Pirate Radio & Radio Caroline

11:33 – Career Backgrounds

14:00 – Shifting into the Main Topic: Reasons for Leaving

16:07 – Tom’s Story: Moving for a Job in Monaco

18:26 – Liam’s Story: From London to Nottingham to Spain

23:57 – Why Nottingham Felt Different

27:04 – The One-Way Van Move to Spain

30:53 – Life in Monaco Begins

32:00 – Two Mindsets: Seeking More vs. Sentimentality

36:00 – The American Dream & Cultural Influence

42:00 – Differences in Personality & Adaptation

45:00 – Living in Two Very Different Places

47:00 – Wrapping Up: Why We’re Doing This Podcast