Moving Countries 101, hosted by Clare Kay, welcomes Isabel Mislinay, an Ecuadorian native who has lived in the United States for 37 years, to discuss her journey and evolving career. Isabel, now a high-performance business coach specializing in real estate, shares her inspiring story of moving from Ecuador to America for love, building a successful life, and achieving her version of the American dream.
Isabel reflects on the lasting love she shares with her husband, which was the driving force behind her permanent move to the U.S. The love story that began 37 years ago has only grown stronger over the years, and she beautifully describes how their bond—strengthened by shared experiences across various states and cultures—has been a source of stability and growth, nurtured by the life they’ve built together and their children.
In this episode, Isabel recalls her transition from a comfortable life in Ecuador, where her family ran a successful bakery, to navigating the complexities of the U.S. real estate market. From her early struggles as a non-English speaker to becoming a realtor and licensed loan officer, Isabel emphasizes the importance of education in unlocking opportunities, including homeownership, which she views as central to achieving the American dream. She also discusses how these educational opportunities made her valuable in the job market and her commitment to helping others fulfil their dreams of homeownership.
Isabel credits much of her success to the welcoming nature of the U.S. Throughout the episode, Clare and Isabel explore how Isabel’s experience as an immigrant has shaped her perception of identity and belonging. Having deeply connected with the diverse cultural tapestry of America, she no longer identifies solely as an immigrant but as someone who has integrated into the very fabric of the country. Her perspective is unique—where some may feel labelled by their immigration status, Isabel sees it as a state of mind. She explains that the opportunities in the U.S. are available to anyone willing to take them. While her brothers continue to identify more strongly with their Ecuadorian roots, Isabel has planted her roots deeply in American soil, embracing both her past and future. This outlook underscores how breaking free from labels and engaging fully with a new environment allowed her to thrive, both personally and professionally.
Reflecting on her influences, Isabel cites The Greatest Salesman in the World by Og Mandino as a pivotal book in her personal development, teaching her that she could be exactly who she wanted to be.
Clare and Isabel also touch on Isabel’s husband’s multicultural background and the broader implications of education, self-belief, and hard work in making the American dream attainable. Her message is clear: by staying open to opportunities, embracing love, and choosing to see the world through compassionate, open eyes, anyone can create a life of deep meaning and joy.
Tune into the full episode of Moving Countries 101 to hear Isabel’s transformative story that not only celebrates her journey of love and growth but also serves as an inspiration for anyone navigating the complexities of moving to a new country, integrating into a new culture, and finding personal fulfilment.
About Moving Countries 101 Podcast:
Moving Countries 101 explores the journeys of individuals who have made significant moves across the globe, sharing their stories of relocation, adaptation, and travel. Hosted by Clare Kay, whose own global travel adds a unique perspective, the podcast seeks to inspire and inform those looking to embrace world travel or a global lifestyle. Moving Countries 101 offers insights into the challenges, rewards, and opportunities that come with living and traveling abroad.
Tune in to Moving Countries 101 for real stories, unique observations, and expert insights on navigating international moves and global travel.
Podcast Links:
You can listen/watch and follow this week’s podcast here:
Apple
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/moving-countries-101/id1724940782
Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/4cxcZ9rbrvZ6A0B6UPMaXj
YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCo75XfTWDQl6JgTn4pzlvnA