Sharing my story with Vox on "Today, Explained"
Last Thursday, I had the incredible opportunity to be a guest on the "Today, Explained" podcast, where we dove into the digital nomad lifestyle and what it means to live and work remotely in a post-pandemic world. If you’ve ever been curious about how working from anywhere has changed my life, and what the Lisbon lifestyle is like for an American expat, this episode covers it all.
During the conversation, we explored the rise of digital nomads, especially in Portugal, a hotspot for remote workers seeking a better work-life balance. I shared how my move here in 2018 allowed me to reinvent my professional and personal life. Instead of burning out in L.A. seeing 35-40 clients a week, I now see patients three days a week and spend the rest of my time focusing on writing, content creation, and enjoying life in this beautiful city.
One of the topics that resonated with me was the balance between finding community and respecting the local culture. There’s no doubt that the influx of digital nomads has created tension, with rising housing prices and the influx of tourists. But for many, including myself, there’s also a deep appreciation for the sense of community and slower pace of life that Portugal offers.
If you're interested in hearing more about my experience, or if you're curious about the digital nomad lifestyle and how it could work for you, click the button below to listen to the full episode of "Today, Explained".
Key Takeaways from the Episode:
How Portugal became a haven for remote workers post-pandemic.
The benefits of adjusting work-life balance as a digital nomad.
The importance of integrating respectfully into local cultures as a foreign worker.
Moving to Lisbon was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. It allowed me to prioritize my well-being, step away from the chaos of overworking, and find a community that has enriched my life in ways I never imagined. I went from being stuck in endless traffic and working myself to the bone in L.A., to embracing a slower, more intentional way of living.
One thing that may stand out to you from our conversation is that this lifestyle isn't reserved for just a few lucky people. Whether you're a therapist like me, a creative, or someone just looking to regain control over your time and energy, the digital nomad life might be more within reach than you think.
It’s not always easy—it comes with its own set of challenges—but the rewards, both personally and professionally, can be life-changing. It’s been a journey of unlearning what "success" should look like and redefining what matters most to me. And if this resonates with you, maybe it’s worth exploring your own version of this lifestyle—one that prioritizes balance, flexibility, and the freedom to choose what feels best for you.
Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all way to live or work. But if you can find a way to build a life that aligns with your values and goals and is meaningful to you, it’s truly a gift.
If you're curious or inspired by this conversation, I encourage you to listen to the full episode. And if you're considering making a big change in your life, whether it’s moving to a new city or simply rethinking your work-life balance, I’m here to say: it’s possible, and it’s worth it.
Here’s to building lives that we truly love.
- Therese