The new year is coming! This is the last podcast episode of the year. Andrew has a lot of things in the works right now, but 2018’s theme is going to be ‘commitment.’ Are you committed to going where you’re treated best, paying less in taxes, and living a freedom-based lifestyle? People who get by, by just doing the minimum, are going to have a hard time as new laws and governments get stricter. Be aware! Instead of doing the minimum, get committed and take the long but fulfilling path to freedom.
Key Takeaways:
Andrew’s Editorial:
[2:50] Nomad Capitalist is growing up.
[4:45] Andrew doesn’t want to keep flying around for the sake of flying around anymore. There are some big changes coming your way.
[6:35] This year’s theme was home. Being a nomad doesn’t have to be about abandoning everything you care about.
[7:40] For U.S. Citizens living abroad, everything about your tax strategy has now been blown up with this new law.
[8:10] The entire game has changed. The answer for a majority of U.S. expats is that it’s no longer good to be a U.S. citizen.
[9:45] You’re not going to be able to get away with just traveling on a whim anymore. It’s coming to the point where you’ll need to prove you actually live somewhere. This applies to not just U.S. citizens.
[10:00] On the positive side, there are more and more countries out there that are developing.
[12:00] The theme for the new year here at Nomad Capitalist is ‘Commitment.’
[12:55] Andrew wants to work with people who are all in. This means entrepreneurs who make 6-7 figures a year.
[14:15] So many people who become a nomad just do the minimum, and it hurts them in the long run.
[19:10] Think about how can you be fully committed to getting a 2nd passport.
Interview:
[20:10] Perhaps you don’t need to finish university, after all.
[23:00] Sam’s school wanted him to leave or they’d expel him. His only choice after that was to take an apprenticeship at an office.
[25:35] Why did Sam want to travel the world?
[32:25] Schools don’t teach you how to find a job.
[35:20] The school that kicked Sam out actually did him a huge favor.
[37:55] When Sam left the country, he went to Russia.
[42:40] Why did Sam pick Ho Chi Minh city to live in?
[48:20] What’s next for Sam?
[49:35] What advice does Sam have for those who want to live this lifestyle?
Mentioned in This Episode:
Email: Andrew@NomadCapitalist.com
Email: Hola@NomadCapitalist.com
On last week’s episode, Andrew discussed how it will potentially be harder for U.S. citizens overseas to live a tax-free lifestyle based on the new tax plans that have been proposed. With that being said, Americans are not the only people who will have to worry. The EU is also going to become stricter. As we round down for the year, why not make ‘getting a second passport’ a part of your new year's resolutions for 2018? You never know when you’re going to need that plan B.
Key Takeaways:
Andrew’s Editorial:
[1:35] Lots of uncertainty right now for U.S. citizens living overseas.
[2:40] Andrew just picked up two new residency cards recently. He’ll be trying it out and seeing how it goes.
[4:05] A great new year's resolution for the upcoming year is to get your second citizenship!
[4:35] It’s going to become harder for EU citizens to pack their bags and go.
[5:25] Remember, the rules are getting stricter everywhere, not just the U.S..
[8:00] The new year is the perfect time to come up with your plan B when/if it comes time you are fed up with your home country.
Interview:
[13:55] Why did Matt decide to become a nomad?
[17:50] When Matt went to Iceland for the first time. His mind was blown!
[20:35] Why are you addicting to the notifications? Stop it. Go explore the world.
[23:35] When Matt started Under 30 CEO, what did he learn about young CEOs?
[28:15] Matt realized that instead of blowing all his money on New York rent, he could take it and have meaningful experiences throughout the world. His money would last longer, too.
[32:45] Why did Matt decide to run a tour company? How did he get to this next step?
[36:45] Matt has offices in Austin, Texas and central America. Why did he decide to split the company up in this way?
[41:35] Right now, Matt’s company is an LLC in the U.S.. However, he is looking into maybe opening a company in Latin America.
[46:25] How does Matt design his tours? What can his customers expect?
[48:15] What’s the new ‘Iceland’ of the world?
Mentioned in This Episode:
Email: Andrew@NomadCapitalist.com
Email: Hola@NomadCapitalist.com
Andrew discusses how Americans might be affected by Trump’s new tax reform bill. By having an ‘America first policy,’ many American expats might find themselves in trouble. Nothing is set in stone yet, but what the tax bill is proposing should cause any American to become concerned. Andrew explains what you need to know if this bill were to pass ‘as is.’
Key Takeaways:
Andrew’s Editorial:
[1:30] Andrew would like to touch on something that’s going to affect American Citizens; actually, it’s going to affect everyone around the world.
[2:15] How will the Trump tax reform impact U.S. expats (and also countries like Ireland, Australia, etc)?
[3:30] Based on what’s being proposed (which may change), you may be forced to pay a lot of tax if you live overseas.
[6:00] Remember, none of this is written in stone as of yet.
[6:10] Foreign income exclusion (what allows you to earn $100K tax-free) might be removed.
[7:00] America first policy is not good for those who want to live abroad.
[10:25] If you’re a high earner, you may have more incentive to abandon that U.S. passport.
[11:40] This year, Andrew has been focused on where he considers ‘home.’
[12:35] Andrew has heard the stories of what happened to Serbia from his friends, who are from there, and their personal counts will make you want to cry.
[14:20] There will always be options, and for so many people, the U.S. is not home.
[15:45] Not wanting to be American is just as much as about identity as it is about money. The way the government acts with its wars and finances, it shows they don’t care about you.
[17:00] Don’t feel defeated, just be prepared that changes will be made.
[19:55] Andrew believes it’s almost criminal that there’s no way you can live overseas without paying the mothership.
Interview:
[22:00] From the U.S. to Chile, why did Nathan make the switch?
[23:55] How did Nathan find out about the 6-month startup program Chile was having?
[25:15] Why did Nathan want to leave his home country?
[26:35] Nathan’s business partner always wanted to study to abroad and it seemed like a natural fit for the two of them to go.
[28:00] What did Nathan like about Chile where it made him decide to come back more ‘full-time’?
[31:10] By leaving the country, Nathan was able to find out about some core issues within the team and he was able to fix it so that the business could still function on its own, making it a stronger business.
[34:20] Chile is considerably more expensive than say, Colombia or Ecuador.
[37:55] Why hasn’t Santiago, Chile progressed to a New York, Hong Kong, or Singapore level yet?
[40:25] Nathan discusses how Chile has changed for the better over the years.
[43:25] How do the Chilean people feel about immigration and foreigners coming into the country?
[47:00] What is Nathan’s company about and how does he help his clients?
[53:15] What’s happening in Venezuela is impacting the Chilean economy in a positive way.
[54:50] When it comes to free markets, where does Chile sit? It seems Colombia is faring better in this area.
[57:35] If your goal is to just make money, Nathan believes Asia has much better opportunities.
[59:15] What’s it like to date romantically in a country like Chile?
Mentioned in This Episode:
Email: Andrew@NomadCapitalist.com
Email: Hola@NomadCapitalist.com
Andrew received an angry listener letter saying that what Andrew is doing (encouraging people to go where they’re treated best) is wrong. In the email, this person believes people leaving the UK and escaping their tax obligations are putting more burden on good citizens like himself and ruining it for the rest of the people who happily live in the UK. Well, on this week’s introduction, Andrew has a few words for people who think it’s morally wrong to leave and seek a different kind of lifestyle. People have always and will always vote with their feet!
Key Takeaways:
Andrew’s Editorial:
[1:40] Andrew reads out loud a listener email, who is upset people are leaving the UK! He thinks what Andrew is doing is wrong.
[5:15] Is paying low taxes and traveling the world really so ‘wrong’?
[9:00] Going where you’re treated best is not a unique concept. It’s a natural concept.
[9:55] “I pay my taxes!” Chances are, no, you don’t!
[10:55] If you want to live in a country that has high tax, then you’re more than welcome to do that.
[13:45] Everybody wants YOU to pay taxes (yet they don’t want to pay it themselves), and if you want to live to seek a better life, those same people are going to tell you that you’re wrong.
[16:00] No matter where you’re from, working towards a second passport is never wrong. In fact, it’s a safety measure.
[17:10] You have the right to leave your own country for tax reasons and non-tax reasons.
[18:15] Are you obligated to pay? Should you feel bad about leaving?
[19:45] You wouldn’t pay double the price for office space just because it was the right thing to do. You wouldn’t pay double for anything!
Interview:
[24:55] How did it all begin for Danny?
[27:45] How does Danny stay content with his life?
[31:15] Why did Danny decide to leave California?
[35:10] If you want to become an entrepreneur, you really have to put yourself out there. There will be times you fail, but you just have to get back up again.
[40:15] Why does Danny love Jakarta and can’t stand Bali?
[43:40] How does Danny date in a foreign country?
[47:45] What makes Jakarta unique?
[52:00] The taxes in Asia are so low, especially at the airports and they’re incredibly nice to travel in.
[54:50] How do we get our hands on Danny’s book, Dr. Growth?
Mentioned in This Episode:
Email: Andrew@NomadCapitalist.com
Email: Hola@NomadCapitalist.com
Andrew recently saw an ad in his in-flight magazine for an Australian university. In it, it said, “...To be a business leader, you need an MBA.” As someone who chooses to run his own business, Andrew does not have a university degree. In fact, Andrew is willing to bet that none of his guests that have been on the show even have an MBA. As many of the listeners of this show are well aware, you don’t need an MBA to be a business leader, but this ad was just a further reminder of the kind of ‘status quo’ we nomads are up against.
Key Takeaways:
Andrew’s Editorial:
[2:20] Andrew reads an ad he saw on his flight. “...To be a business leader, you need an MBA.”
[5:55] If a university degree is such a big deal, then why are they advertising for it on a cheesy in-flight magazine?
[7:25] Andrew does not have a university degree. He started his business at 19 and it became a multi-million dollar business.
[9:20] How does having an MBA make you a business leader?
[10:55] If you’re an entrepreneur, you’re naturally looking for new angles.
[11:20] Andrew bets that of all the guests who have been on the show, none of them have an MBA.
[12:20] Don’t fall for the status quo where everyone moves out to the suburbs and pays the price in high taxes.
[13:20] No matter what lifestyle you choose, someone, somewhere will have an opinion on it and will try to get on your case about it. Ignore them!
Interview:
[16:30] Where did this all start for Lucian?
[19:15] What is Romanian culture like?
[25:15] Although Lucian has a university degree, he believes nowadays with the amount of information available online, you don’t need to follow a 4-5 year curriculum.
[29:35] If you’re going to start a business with someone, do it with someone you’ve at least worked with before.
[37:15] At the end of the day, what really matters is the quality of your life.
[39:00] How does Lucian run his business when he’s traveling the world?
[43:45] When it comes to hiring, employers often look to Asia, but it seems that Romania has much more similar values to Western culture compared to Asian countries.
[49:05] Five years ago, people thought Lucian was weird for working from home. Now, it’s much more accepted.
Mentioned in This Episode:
Email: Andrew@NomadCapitalist.com
Email: Hola@NomadCapitalist.com
Andrew has been receiving questions about how Nomad Capitalist ranked their recent article entitled, “Nomad Quality of Life Index.” The article featured 100 cities and how friendly they are to the Nomad lifestyle. Some of these cities like London and Dubai are lumped in with Lisbon and Malta Island, which to some, doesn’t make sense. Andrew explains the logic behind each of these rankings and how nomads can use this guide to pick and choose their cities based on the kind of mood they’re in.
Key Takeaways:
Andrew’s Editorial:
[3:00] Andrew and his team recently released the Nomad Quality of Life Index on his website.
[4:15] How did Andrew calculate and rate each of these 100 cities?
[9:55] Why are London and Portugal on the top of the list when they’re such high-tax countries?
[14:40] You always do a ‘pick and match’ kind of lifestyle where you hang out in a high-tax country for a couple of months and then move to a low-tax country.
[15:20] Check out the list of cities on the Nomad Quality of Life Index. It might surprise you!
Interview:
[15:50] What kinds of changes is Andrew seeing in the Nomad movement?
[16:45] Why did Daniel leave the UK at 22 years old?
[21:30] After receiving numerous job offers when moving to Singapore and Tokyo, what did that tell Daniel about the job market? How does it compare to the UK?
[25:10] Don’t let yourself talk you out of moving/traveling to another country. You can’t research everything.
[29:40] Companies are having a hard time retaining talent because people realize they can travel, work, and be done with all the extra stress.
[33:15] The 4-hour workweek really inspired Daniel to take action and improve his family’s quality of life.
[37:35] What was it about moving away from Singapore that convinced Daniel’s wife to pack up and change the kid’s schools?
[42:00] Once you move to a new country, the fear of the unknown now becomes exciting.
[45:15] Daniel discusses how he makes the nomad lifestyle work with a family.
Mentioned in This Episode:
Email: Andrew@NomadCapitalist.com
Email: Hola@NomadCapitalist.com
As someone who grew up in the United States, Andrew struggles with the concept of what it means to be American. With new regulations, rules, and restrictions coming out, he is reminded again of what it means to be truly ‘home,’ which is this year’s Nomad Capitalist theme. In this week’s introduction, Andrew reminds the audience that it’s okay to let go of the country in which you grew up if it no longer serves you in a positive way.
Key Takeaways:
Andrew’s Editorial:
[1:50] Are you traveling to the U.S. anytime soon? You might want to listen in to what’s in store for you. There are some new screening restrictions!
[3:20] Nomad Capitalist’s theme this year is the concept of home. Andrew shares a frustrating story he’s experienced with being ‘American.’
[4:00] If every other country in the world can get by with a certain set of standards, and if there’s one that can't, then there really isn’t much of an excuse for that outlier.
[6:45] Andrew is sad that the place he grew up in, the place where he comes from, has made things so difficult that he doesn’t even want to go back — not even to see his family!
[7:50] Andrew is in Portugal right now celebrating his birthday.
[12:45] For many of us, there are places in the world that do not serve us. However, it can be difficult to let go of the country where you grew up.
[14:15] As the year comes to an end, Andrew wants you to remember that concept of home and to remember the things that don’t serve you can be not a part of your home. And, that’s okay!
Interview:
[16:30] How did the entrepreneurial journey start for Neil?
[18:05] Neil used to work as a chef for Gordon Ramsay. Gordon probably fired him about three times while he was working for him.
[23:10] No matter how successful we get, we never seem to be satisfied.
[25:45] When Neil decided to pack his bags and move to Australia, how did that adventure work out for him in the end?
[30:30] The 6 major English-speaking countries — U.S., Canada, UK, Ireland, Australia, and New Zealand — have the strictest policies when it comes to expatriation.
[36:40] Neil fell in love with France, until he realized how much money they wanted in taxes.
[41:55] What’s it like living in Portugal?
[45:10] Where does Neil find his talent?
[48:00] It’s important to ‘check-in’ with both your business and your personal life to make sure the things you’re striving towards/doing are still working for you and if they still make sense to you.
Mentioned in This Episode:
Email: Andrew@NomadCapitalist.com
Email: Hola@NomadCapitalist.com
Thepointsguy.com/2017/10/us-flights-stricter-security-oct-26
Andrew admires Millennials. They seem to get it right compared to all the other generations out there. Why own a home, or even a car, when you can travel and live a more freedom-based lifestyle? Andrew recently came across a Bloomberg article about Porsche changing up their business model to entice more Millennials into buying their cars. Car manufacturers are struggling because Millennials aren’t interested in the challenges and complications of ownership.
Key Takeaways:
Andrew’s Editorial:
[1:40] Porsche has a new subscription-based model out right now. Andrew reads an article from Bloomberg news about it.
[3:15] According to the article, the economy now has successful Millennials who have the financial power to own a high-end car.
[3:35] Andrew hasn’t owned a car for more than four years.
[5:20] The desire to own a car just isn’t there with the younger generation.
[7:40] Not owning a car is, frankly, fantastic. So much less stress.
[9:00] With the people Andrew works with, very few of them buy a car. Despite saving enough money in taxes to buy 10 luxury cars.
[10:20] Why do you want to be part of a system that forces you to own, forces you to pay high taxes, and gives you very little rewards in return?
[11:45] You can take advantage of the way the system (the law) is set up so you can go where you’re treated best.
[15:10] If Andrew ever wants to go back to the ‘ownership’ experience, he can… by renting a car for a day or for a month.
[16:00] Despite all the criticism Millennials receive, Andrew admires that they’re not interested in the status quo. They want a better quality life for themselves.
Interview:
[18:15] Why are British people so darn likable?
[20:10] So many people in the UK have expatriated to other countries due to the bad economic situation that happened in 2008.
[21:20] What was Adrian’s journey into becoming a nomad?
[23:55] Lose your ego when you travel and be prepared to make a complete idiot out of yourself.
[26:20] When Adrian first went to Poland, it was 20 years ago and it was much, much different than it is today.
[28:25] What made Adrian decide to leave his home country?
[30:55] Andrew could never play the office politics very well and neither could Adrian. It’s one of the big reasons why Adrian became a nomad.
[32:05] After 20 years of traveling, what kinds of lessons has Adrian learned along the way?
[35:00] For many British citizens, Germany is quite the culture shock. How did Adrian manage so well in these ‘stricter’ countries?
[39:40] What made Adrian decide to settle down in one country?
[43:05] What’s the difference between the business mindset of the Czechs and the Polish?
[46:15] Doing business in Georgia with Georgians isn’t the easiest thing to do.
[49:10] Is Tbilisi the place to be for creative professionals?
[54:00] Is Adrian living in Georgia just on a tourist visa or how has he set that up for himself?
Mentioned in This Episode:
Email: Andrew@NomadCapitalist.com
Email: Hola@NomadCapitalist.com
Andrew recently received a listener question about having more than one home base and what the logistics were when it came to paying taxes. On today’s show, Andrew clears up any confusion listeners might have on the differences between tax resident, resident, and the country you’re currently living in. You can have more than one home base and still not pay any taxes in that country. Andrew explains how.
Key Takeaways:
Andrew’s Editorial:
[1:25] Andrew reads a listener email, who disagrees with Andrew about living in more than one home base.
[4:20] Tourists don’t pay tax. In fact, tourists get treated better than citizens do.
[5:45] The world is becoming a more connected place, which is why it’s becoming more difficult to claim perpetual tourist and not pay taxes.
[8:30] How can you live somewhere without a visa?! The border agent was confused.
[10:45] As an example, if Andrew is a resident in Mexico, that doesn’t mean he needs to pay taxes. He can be a resident in Mexico, but also perpetual tourist living in other countries and he would have no tax obligations in Mexico.
[11:00] There’s a difference between tax residents and second residents and there’s a difference between where you spend time vs. where you’re a resident.
[14:15] Andrew believes choosing where you want to live in the world will become easier for U.S. citizens, only because other countries will be making it harder for their citizens.
[16:55] There are so many shades of grey in this system, which is why it’s so, so important to do all of this legally.
[17:10] FACTA and CRS are very important because they are changing the way this business works.
[17:55] Just because Andrew doesn’t agree with certain practices does not mean he believes in breaking the law. The law is the law and there are ways to work with it LEGALLY!
[18:50] How many home bases do you want? Let Andrew know!
Interview:
[21:10] What made Tomas interested in the nomad lifestyle?
[30:00] How can we apply mindfulness to the nomad lifestyle?
[34:40] We create artificial busyness in our lives when all we really need to do is slow down and really consider what’s important to us.
[39:55] What’s Tomas’s number one favorite place to visit and relax?
[43:00] Tomas’s entire entrepreneurial/nomad lifestyle is based on being mindful and present with his needs and wants.
[44:20] Stop chasing things that do not serve you!
[46:55] Remember, the government makes the rules and there are legal ways to follow those rules and still get the benefits.
Mentioned in This Episode:
Email: Andrew@NomadCapitalist.com
Email: Hola@NomadCapitalist.com
Andrew recently read an article on NBC Bay Area saying over half of Californians want to leave the state of California. People often complain about their living conditions and the decline of the United States, but so very few people actually take action and move. The difference between those who take actions and those who don’t? The people who are taking actions are working and striving towards something important and meaningful to them. And for those who don’t? They’re running away from their problems and, through that, all they want to do is complain.
Key Takeaways:
Andrew’s Editorial:
[1:45] Will soaring California housing prices lead to an exodus?
[3:25] The top three places Californians go when leaving California are Seattle, Portland, and Austin.
[4:20] Whenever something crazy happens in the world, like Brexit or the election of Donald Trump, Andrew sees huge traffic spikes to his website.
[6:35] Those top three places people go to aren’t exactly cheap places either.
[7:20] The reality is, most people aren’t going to do anything about their living situation.
[8:40] So, why do some people pull the trigger and other people don’t?
[10:25] You’re not going to save that much in taxes by moving to Texas.
[11:10] Andrew has helped some of his clients save 70% of their income from taxes. The legal way!
[12:55] 52,000 new companies were formed in the state of California in the last 4 years. That’s more than Florida, Colorado, and Arizona combined.
[14:00] Want to leave California? Well, first of all, what are you trying to accomplish by doing that? Second, consider looking beyond the border of the U.S.
Interview:
[16:30] Where did this nomad journey start for Louise?
[19:00] The purpose of Louise’s YouTube channel is to let people know that there are options.
[19:35] How did Louise meet her partner, Ed?
[24:30] When Louise and Ed moved in together the very first time, they had very little problems because they didn’t have financial issues and they were able to hire a maid to clean the house.
[26:30] Louise’s family back home thinks she and Ed are poor because they live in Thailand. Quite the contrary.
[27:15] What other benefits does Louise have by living in a less expensive country like the UK?
[33:25] Why does Louise think that there are more men living a nomad lifestyle? How can we incorporate more women into this?
[38:35] Where is the digital nomad community going?
[41:40] Has Louise found a place that she can call home, outside of the UK?
[46:10] Did Louise enjoy living in Chile?
[51:45] The world is so global now that the Government really has to start competing for nomad dollars.
Mentioned in This Episode:
Email: Andrew@NomadCapitalist.com
Email: Hola@NomadCapitalist.com
Soaring California Housing Prices May be Leading to an Exodus
As many of you know, this year’s Nomad Capitalist theme is ‘home.’ More and more of Andrew’s clients don’t want to be perpetual travelers. They want home bases, places where they can feel at home. What’s great is when clients finally do find a location where they can call home, they develop a sense of identity that they feel even more proud of.
Key Takeaways:
Andrew’s Editorial:
[1:25] This year’s Nomad Capitalist theme is ‘home.’
[2:55] On Andrew’s social media feed, he sees his clients buying homes in places where they finally feel at home.
[5:20] When Andrew brings on a client for the very first time, they go through an intense diagnostic process.
[7:35] Andrew loves seeing his clients painting walls, buying furniture, and settling into their new homes.
Interview:
[9:30] Where did it all start for Brian?
[11:50] Brian ended up losing everything in the 2008 crash. This humbled a very cocky Brian at the time.
[18:45] Why did Brian have an ego problem?
[24:00] The financial success Brian achieved was not fulfilling. He felt fulfilled when he traveled.
[26:15] What’s life like in Bali for Brian? What kind of luxuries does he enjoy?
[31:20] How does Brian manage his business overseas?
[33:10] Brian highly recommends the development company called 10 Clouds.
[40:00] Indonesia wants to tax you on your worldwide income. Brian decided not to become an Indonesian resident.
[43:35] What is Brian’s company, CallerSmart, about?
Mentioned in This Episode:
Email: Andrew@NomadCapitalist.com
Email: Hola@NomadCapitalist.com
Andrew is back from his summer break! While he was away, he was off testing new overseas strategies to see how effective they are in practice. While there may be guys out there who are doing podcast episodes regularly, Andrew would rather get real, on the ground, experience about what it’s like living and investing overseas than to be known as the ‘media expert.’
Key Takeaways:
Andrew’s Editorial:
[2:00] As many of you know, Andrew used to be in radio. It was a common rule in radio to never share info that would date yourself/could be outdated in the future.
[2:25] Well, today’s episode will be breaking that rule.
[3:35] Andrew took about 6 weeks off to test out new overseas strategies.
[4:15] There are guys out there doing podcasts 5 days a week. You know what that makes them? Podcast experts, not nomad subject-matter experts. Andrew walks the walk and talks the talk, but in order to do that effectively, he has to take a break from podcasting.
[6:10] How long should you spend in each place when you’re living the nomad lifestyle?
[8:15] Not everyone can run their business successfully by bouncing around to a new country every 30 days.
[9:00] Andrew currently has 4 home bases.
[10:35] Watch the latest YouTube video that discusses how long a nomad should stay in one country.
Interview:
[12:35] Why did Neil decide to become a DJ who travels around the world?
[14:05] Serious question, does Wales count as a country?
[22:50] How old was Neil when he started his own record label?
[27:30] Financial success is not Neil’s primary motivator.
[29:25] How did Neil build his career to the point where he was able to travel the world?
[36:20] Did women throw themselves at Neil because of his status?
[41:10] Why did Neil decide to move to Bulgaria?
[50:15] How did Neil meet his Bulgarian girlfriend?
[52:30] What kind of cultural differences has Neil spotted between those from Europe and the U.S.?
Mentioned in This Episode:
Email: Andrew@NomadCapitalist.com
Email: Hola@NomadCapitalist.com
Andrew received a listener email asking about some of the places you can settle down, raise children, and get citizenship through marriage. Now, let’s be clear, you should not have a sham wedding as that is not only illegal, but it most likely will cause you more stress than it is worth. Getting citizenship through marriage isn’t that common these days, but there are still some countries out there that will let you do it.
Key Takeaways:
Andrew’s Editorial:
[1:40] Andrew reads out loud a listener email about settling down and raising children on this nomad lifestyle.
[4:15] Why stick around and live in a place where you’re actively discriminated against?
[5:00] Don’t have a sham marriage just for the passport.
[7:00] Nomad Capitalist does have a list of countries where you can obtain citizenship via marriage.
[12:10] Being married to an EU citizen definitely has its advantages.
[14:55] There’s nothing wrong with going out there and dating someone from a different culture, especially if you can’t find what you’re looking for at home.
Interview:
[19:25] When did the travel bug first begin for Brian?
[22:15] Why is Brian still a nomad? What keeps him going?
[24:25] You have to be honest with yourself, and make sure your travel lifestyle meets your needs and comforts.
[25:25] It’s okay if you just want to dip your toe in and test the waters. You don’t need to create a big splash in order to become a nomad.
[26:50] You can travel on your own time. Don’t feel obligated to check off a box you don’t even want to check off in the first place.
[31:00] What’s Brian’s routine? How does he balance travel and work?
[36:30] Brian has four cities — four home bases — he regularly goes to.
[40:50] So many nomads try to get the cheapest price, but cheap doesn’t mean good value. Those who ‘cheap it out’ don’t always have a good quality of life.
[48:05] You will always feel a connection to the place you grew up, but it doesn’t make it home, and there’s no reason to get upset over the crazy things (political or otherwise) that are happening there.
[52:40] You, yourself, have to put in the effort of finding a location that works for you. Andrew cannot do everything.
[55:25] This year’s theme at Nomad Capitalist is home. If you’re ready to find it, contact Andrew and his team!
Mentioned in This Episode:
Email: Andrew@NomadCapitalist.com
Email: Hola@NomadCapitalist.com
Brie Moreau was raised by French hippie parents. He’s traveled all over the world, and had even been to 17 different primary schools when he was a young child. He admits he pretty much grew up in a van. Some parents believe that children need stability and a ‘home’ in order to thrive, but Brie disagrees. Through his own personal life experiences, he was taught how to be self-reliant and to take risks. On today’s episode, Brie discuss what his young nomad life was like, and how it has shaped him for the better.
Key Takeaways:
Andrew’s Editorial:
[1:30] Andrew just got back from a Nomad Capitalist mastermind in Dublin.
[2:45] Check out the Youtube channel to see what you missed from the event.
Interview:
[3:55] Brie is the love child of two French hippies and has lived all over the world.
[4:35] When did Brie realize he was a nomad?
[6:15] Brie pretty much grew up in a van and never really had a ‘home’.
[7:40] What kind of lessons did Brie learn as a young child and traveling the world?
[8:25] Don’t need children need some ‘roots’?
[11:30] Brie was taught radical self-reliance as well as the ability to say yes and take risks. He’s not afraid to fail.
[15:55] To ask yourself, ‘Where should I live?’ is a tough question.
[21:30] As a French and Australian citizen, how easy has it been for Brie to travel and be a nomad?
[25:00] Would Brie like to become an Indonesian one day?
[31:55] Nomads are going out and creating their own ecosystem. Having a ‘Silicon Valley’ will not just be a U.S. thing. Andrew believes we’ll be seeing big hubs soon.
Andrew’s Editorial:
[34:20] Nomad Capitalist has been receiving a lot of interesting questions lately!
[35:15] Ten years ago, there wasn’t a lot of information about becoming a nomad.
[35:50] Today, there’s too much information and people are getting confused.
[36:20] Andrew has spent over a million dollars trying to find the perfect nomad strategy.
[41:00] When asking too specific questions, it becomes difficult to answer without knowing your whole story. That’s when a real conversation needs to take place. Random strangers shouldn’t be answering these Questions.
[43:35] Want to be your own doctor? Go right ahead.
[46:00] You have to pay for good advice. Free advice can damage you.
[47:55] A lot of people want the end results, but they’re not willing to do those push ups. You gotta get sweaty!
Mentioned in This Episode:
Email: Andrew@NomadCapitalist.com
Email: Hola@NomadCapitalist.com
What’s happening in Vanuatu right now? Well, Andrew is currently visiting to find out. As he talks with various expats on the island, it becomes obvious that the nomad mindset is changing. People who want to live abroad to hide their money are becoming less and less, especially because governments everywhere are making it a lot harder for them to get away with it. Andrew has always been of the mindset that you should do things legally and use the law to your advantage. Running away from it will only cause you more problems in the end.
Key Takeaways:
Andrew’s Editorial:
[1:35] Andrew is in Vanuatu right now talking to the people living there.
[3:00] There’s a lot going on in this country!
[3:35] Vanuatu is a true tax haven. You can live there and not pay tax!
[4:50] There are two different types of expats on Vanuatu.
[7:35] The offshore/nomad world is dramatically changing and regulations are getting stricter.
[9:35] Hiding your money is getting harder, plus it’s also against the law. Don’t break the law!
[11:15] The strategies will change based on what your end goal is. This is why you need to get clear about what your end goal is.
Interview:
[14:30] What was the spark that made Phil want to become a nomad?
[17:00] Why did Phil choose a career in law?
[20:30] Are you happy chasing the money? Phil wasn’t. So he left the UK and went to Australia.
[26:25] Can you develop the same kind of camaraderie in traditional co-worker/work relationships living as a nomad?
[27:25] How does Phil manage living in a place for two months for work and then saying goodbye?
[29:15] How does Phil define or differentiate between an expat lifestyle vs. nomadic lifestyle?
[31:20] It’s okay to have more than one home base.
[34:45] Phil has noticed that you met surprisingly few people from the U.S., despite the large population.
[36:15] How does Phil manage to work for some big companies like Coca Cola, and not go into their offices?
[39:35] More companies need help bridging the gap and becoming more connected with the world’s up-and-coming markets. There are both positives and negatives to this.
[41:25] As nations begin to grow and adapt bad habits (like using more plastic), can entrepreneurs realistically solve these environmental issues nomadically?
[45:25] Which has a more pro-business mentality? The UK or Australia?
[47:40] How will you create your offshore strategy?
Mentioned in This Episode:
Email: Andrew@NomadCapitalist.com
In this week’s show, Andrew discusses the importance of not letting others hold you back, especially when trying to achieve your dreams. Do not go against your instincts to have a better life, for ‘the greater good.’ In the Western culture, Andrew sees that more and more people are becoming jealous of those who have slightly more than them, and those people will try everything in their power to make you feel guilty for it.
Key Takeaways:
Andrew's Editorial:
[1:35] Remember, this is not a political show. However, politics are discussed, especially if it affects us nomads!
[2:30] Andrew noticed something in the news recently that he’d like to bring to your attention.
[5:15] The government makes the rules. That’s just the way it is, and it’s in your best interest to follow those rules.
[6:35] Some people think it’s unfair to not pay taxes, even if there’s a legal way to do it. By the way, Andrew does pay taxes, just not to the U.S.
[7:15] It’s not tax avoidance. Andrew wants to be very, very clear. There are legal ways that you can pay less taxes and keep more of your money. Want to be sketchy and hide your money in an island? Go somewhere else.
[8:10] So, back to the news story (promise it’s related). There’s a big story about Melania Trump lately.
[11:00] Years ago, Andrew did have a chip on his shoulder about the U.S., but now he’s more wiser, and much, much calmer.
[12:35] There’s a culture that has developed in the United States (or anywhere really) that has become hostile towards people who seek a better lifestyle. Don’t get guilt-tripped into believing you should be miserable for the ‘greater’ good.
[15:30] You’re not the enemy for trying to achieve something and live a more fulfilling life.
Interview:
[16:55] Why did Tal want to become a nomad?
[19:45] When Tal worked for a 9-to-5, he felt like his soul was being crushed. He longed for adventure and travelling the world.
[21:45] Despite making a lot of money, Tal was so miserable at his job. Tal thought back to when he was at his happiest. It turned out that when he was a dishwasher, making almost no money, in Australia, was when he felt truly happy. That’s when he knew it was time for a change.
[26:50] When Tal went back to Australia, he felt at home immediately.
[28:40] How did Tal get an Australian passport?
[31:45] After he received his Australian passport, Tal felt like it was now time to go and move on to the next thing.
[33:10] Did Tal’s identity change when he became an Australian citizen?
[36:15] Tal discusses the benefits of living a ‘light’ lifestyle. Sometimes you need to reevaluate and shed your current identity to push you to new heights.
Mentioned in This Episode:
Email: Andrew@NomadCapitalist.com
Andrew does a solo show this week on why it’s important to have the right mindset when you’re making some serious and potentially irreversible life choices. Don’t renounce your citizenship out of anger, it will not do you any good. Instead, take a break from it and come back with a different mindset on whether or not your home country can still serve you. From there, you can make the right choices based on your future dreams and goals.
Key Takeaways:
Andrew's Editorial:
[1:55] Why does Andrew talk about mindset so darn much?
[8:25] Andrew knew someone who was really, really into the book, ‘The Secret.’ Andrew personally thinks that book is total bunk, but there are some lessons that can be learned from it.
[11:20] So, why is mindset so important? Because you eventually get rewarded for who you are and how authentic you are.
[16:15] Some listeners wrote to Andrew asking why did he decide to visit the U.S.
[17:15] Andrew hates it when countries issue him a ‘landing card,’ like Singapore and Indonesia.
[19:40] Andrew had been out of the United States for so long that coming back into the country just didn’t feel right.
[21:25] Andrew wondered to himself if he was okay with the idea of being a tourist in his own country.
[29:00] It’s important to do a ‘gut check’ on whether your home country can still provide the things that you want before you give it up for good.
[32:25] Don’t burn your home country’s passport out of frustration and anger.
[36:35] If your home country no longer serves you, it’s okay to go look for another one.
[41:15] Andrew answers some of your listener questions!
[46:45] Please leave a review on iTunes!
Mentioned in This Episode:
Email: Andrew@NomadCapitalist.com
Andrew circles back on this year’s theme of ‘home.’ Andrew is currently in the United States after not being here for over 1,000 days. Although Andrew was born in the U.S., he rarely tells people he’s from there. The U.S. does not feel like home to him anymore. So, when strangers ask him, “Where are you from?” How does Andrew answer this popular question?
Key Takeaways:
Andrew's Editorial:
[2:25] Gasp! Andrew is in the U.S. of A.! It’s been over 1,000 days since Andrew was last here.
[3:50] When you’re constantly on the move and being a nomad, it’s easy to fall into the trap of not having a home.
[7:15] Andrew was born and raised in the U.S., but he never felt comfortable here.
[8:00] Where are you from? Where is your home?
[10:10] It’s okay to choose where you’re from. Where you’re from doesn’t have to be where you’re born anymore.
[12:00] As a nomad, it’s okay to want a home!
Interview:
[17:25] Singles and the overworked aren’t just the only types of people coming to Bali. Just the other day there was a family meetup.
[20:25] What made David decide to leave the U.S. and move to Bali?
[24:05] David is also a rare earth metals expert.
[28:35] Coming to Bali to find yourself? You might want to take a step back on that.
[31:10] Vacationing all the time gets stale. You need to be a part of something — a community.
[35:40] When you travel, you find out what you really need, and become not so attached to material possessions.
[40:25] David loves being a part of something bigger, and helping his team develop better talents and skillsets.
[45:45] What kind of flags did David plant while he was in Indonesia?
[50:10] Can someone build a $100 million dollar business from Bali, or will they need to go to New York in order to make it?
[52:45] Andrew needs a favor from you. Go to iTunes and please leave a review.
Mentioned in This Episode:
Email: Andrew@NomadCapitalist.com
Andrew discusses how this year he paid zero U.S. income tax. How did he do it? Well, through the businesses and systems he’s set in place in different countries. It is possible to reduce your taxes through legal means, and no, it’s not an option only the rich have either. If you don’t want to pay so much in tax, then set up a nomad strategy that helps you succeed.
Key Takeaways:
Andrew's Editorial:
[1:35] If you qualify as an expat, you get an extension in your income tax by default.
[1:50] Andrew paid zero on his income tax!
[4:00] However, Andrew has paid tax in 4 other countries this year.
[4:55] Are these tax options only available to the rich? No.
[6:05] Andrew is not a tax dodger. Everything he does is legal.
[7:25] Wanting to pay less tax does not make you a bad person or a tax dodger.
Interview:
[10:25] Why did Ben decide to become an entrepreneur?
[12:00] When Ben got two clients for his company, he left the U.S. and went to Mexico.
[16:20] Ben had no plan B when he decided to take his business seriously.
[24:25] Ben met a woman shortly after he touched down in Mexico. How did the relationship progress beyond the honeymoon phase?
[29:30] When Ben went to Vancouver with his girlfriend, he ended up getting addicted to heroin.
[33:55] You can get into trouble anywhere in the world. You’ll never escape it.
[38:35] Being an addict and an entrepreneur who travels certainty has its challenges.
[39:25] There is no running away from yourself.
[40:10] We can change the location, but we can not change the person we are when we arrive at the location.
[44:10] If you’re struggling with your own demons, stop wearing a mask, and start being honest with people.
Mentioned in This Episode:
Email: Andrew@NomadCapitalist.com
Andrew discusses the possibility of keeping your onshore options open. This year’s Nomad Capitalist theme is home, and so consider the possibility of picking a country and planting a home base, where you are able to get your residency and pay tax. No-tax countries are becoming harder to find, and it’s only a matter of time before they go completely extinct. Weigh both options of traveling without a home base vs. traveling with a home base, and you might find that your onshore options actually open more doors for you.
Key Takeaways:
Andrew's Editorial:
[2:10] We all know about offshore asset location, but what about onshore strategies?
[4:55] Andrew is in love with Montenegro.
[8:20] Low-tax options across the world are becoming fewer and fewer.
[9:30] Sometimes paying 5-10% in tax is more worth than paying 0%.
[10:45] The best time to act is today.
[11:55] Instead of being a nomad, consider the onshore option and hit several birds with one stone. No-tax options are becoming far and few between.
Interview:
[17:20] Why did Chris become an entrepreneur?
[21:00] Is teaching English a good way to ‘dip the toe’ into the nomad lifestyle?
[32:00] Chris discusses how he met his wife. He ended up meeting her in South Korea on an online dating site!
[42:40] What’s the difference between South Korea and Thailand?
[50:25] When you’re on dating sites or even dating in general, make your intentions clear!
[52:30] Chris had tried dating local women, but found out their goals were much different than his goals.
Mentioned in This Episode:
Email: Andrew@NomadCapitalist.com
Andrew received some great feedback on last week’s solo episode discussing and debunking common tax and banking myths. However, one of the things he’s noticed is that some of you don’t feel comfortable sharing these nomad stories because your friends will not understand this lifestyle.
Well, Andrew believes it’s important to get these messages out there, so that it becomes more acceptable in your social circle to branch out and start businesses outside of your home town. In fact, 14 years ago, a location-independent business didn’t even exist. Now, everyone knows what that is and is okay about it!
Key Takeaways:
Andrew's Editorial:
[2:00] Thank you for the feedback on last week’s show!
[2:15] Want to support the show? Rate us on iTunes and spread the word!
[3:55] Do you feel like none of your friends really get this nomad lifestyle?
[6:25] Beware, the offshore world is going to get tricker, even when using legal strategies the way Andrew does.
[7:55] When Andrew first started 14 years ago, running a location-independent business wasn’t even a thing. Today, more people understand what that means.
[9:15] Want your friends to finally ‘get it’? Then tell them about it! Keep talking about it so it becomes normal.
Interview:
[12:25] Why did Tim become an entrepreneur? How did he get started?
[14:55] Tim had to manage a full time job while starting his side hustle. How did he balance being an entrepreneur and employee at the same time?
[20:10] Bank doesn’t accept the kind of business you’re running? Don’t lie about it! Honest is really the best policy.
[26:30] Does Tim regret not being an EU citizen? He could have gotten a Dutch passport.
[33:25] Has Tim experienced any resentment for being a nomad?
[36:00] What is Tim’s business about?
[44:25] What are Tim’s thoughts on Taiwan? What kind of opportunities exist for foreigners over there?
[49:20] What’s next for Tim?
Andrew's Editorial:
[51:40] When Andrew first decided to become a nomad, he was very much like Tim. He tries to consume as much information on the subject as possible.
[52:15] Don’t listen to an arm-chair expat. Find the experts and seek out their advice.
[55:25] Believe the sky’s falling? That’s your deal. Find someone who believes what you believe. Want to have multiple businesses offshore? Again, get the expert that aligns with your views and goals.
[57:40] When it comes to becoming a nomad, pick your message and go from there.
Mentioned in This Episode:
Email: Andrew@NomadCapitalist.com
Andrew has not gotten Bill O’Reilly-ed! He’s been traveling Asia, and took some time out from hosting the show to get an on-the-ground perspective of what’s happening in banks in Hong Kong. Hong Kong banks are getting more and more hostile towards business owners, but if you’ve been following Andrew for some time, you’d know that is something he’s predicted since 2013!
Key Takeaways:
Andrew's Editorial:
[1:55] Andrew will be doing a solo show today!
[3:35] Andrew finally closed his HSBC account.
[6:45] Is Hong Kong still a place to go?
[12:35] Be wary of people who give you answers to your problems without actually meeting you.
[15:45] One of the compliance employees at HSBC couldn’t even get a HSBC bank account for his side business.
[17:15] Andrew doesn’t have any secret powers. He learns by doing. Yes, by going out there and actually trying to set up bank accounts!
[21:20] Andrew saw problems arising with Hong Kong and their banking years ago. He first wrote about the issues in 2013!
[25:05] What are Andrew’s thoughts on China vs. India?
[31:45] A mayor in Sweden wants to give employees an hour work break for sex. But, what kind of great companies come out of Sweden? This is why Asia runs laps around places like Sweden. They want to work hard.
[40:10] It took one guest on the show three years to get rejected for residency in Costa Rica. Three years!
[43:25] Create a clear plan and strategy over where you want your life to go. When you have a clear plan in place, and say, Hong Kong banks try to screw you over, you are already miles away and not dealing with it!
Mentioned in This Episode:
Email: Andrew@NomadCapitalist.com
Andrew is currently in Mongolia, and shares his thoughts on where he sees the country going in the next couple of years. Andrew believes if you’re an already established entrepreneur who’s gotten your tax and second passports taken care of, then yes, come check out Mongolia for fun. However, if you’re looking for a new home, a more free lifestyle, then you might want to wait on taking Mongolia seriously.
Key Takeaways:
Andrew's Editorial:
[2:25] Andrew is currently in Mongolia.
[4:30] Andrew believes there’s a lot of potential in certain African countries right now, but has not traveled to there just quite yet.
[6:40] What are some of the benefits to living/working in Mongolia?
[8:25] As of right now, Mongolia is an interesting place to watch.
[10:15] If you’re trying to invest, Andrew is not quite convinced Mongolia is the place for that, just yet.
Interview:
[12:20] Where did it all start for Matthew?
[14:25] What did Matthew learn from his entrepreneurial parents?
[19:35] Nomad entrepreneurs are able to have very unstructured lives, but how does that affect the overall cultural view of entrepreneurs?
[23:25] Is this nomad/work from anywhere lifestyle too flashy, too markety?
[29:25] Coworking spaces are excellent networking opportunities.
[30:25] Matthew is loving Georgia right now. The talent out there is amazing!
[32:15] What advice does Matthew have for those on the fence about Georgia?
[36:30] Matthew believes in the next five-ten years Georgia will be the next Berlin or London.
[43:25] These up and coming countries just feel more open and welcoming to foreigners, and when you look at the numbers, it makes those sentiments even more real.
[46:20] What’s been Matthew’s experience with working in Hong Kong?
Mentioned in This Episode:
Email: Andrew@NomadCapitalist.com
Ashley Dymock is the author of World Schooling, a book on how to keep your nomadic lifestyle when you’re ready for the next phase of your life and to have kids. Many people feel like they should give up their lifestyle and settle down somewhere. Well, Ashley says no! You have other options! Find out how you can live a nomadic lifestyle with children, on this week’s episode.
Key Takeaways:
Andrew's Editorial:
[2:05] It’s always easy to tell who’s taking action, and who’s sitting on the sidelines.
[3:00] Every year, Andrew is learning new things, and what’s working/not working.
[4:50] When you’re seeking out help, keep this in mind: Moving forward generates mastery.
[5:35] Get your taxes taken care of, build the freedom lifestyle you want, and then invest your income.
Interview:
[7:25] How can people be a perpetual traveler with a child?
[9:00] What’s the biggest thing Ashley learned from writing the World Schooling book?
[10:10] There are thousands of people educating their children while traveling!
[12:10] You can design your life the way that you want.
[13:00] Take a step back — what’s the purpose of the education system? Can they do a better job than you?
[16:25] When did the traveling start for Ashley?
[21:25] What does it really mean to be a nomad?
[24:25] What’s the best way to approach world schooling?
[28:10] Ashley has been robbed 4 times, but you know, life goes on!
[30:55] Children can help open doors for citizenship as well.
[35:00] Can unschooling your children really be the best option for them?
[41:35] The traditional education system is not preparing our sons and daughters for ‘real life.’
[47:55] What do children really need to ‘know’?
[51:00] There’s no template for how you should teach your children.
Mentioned in This Episode:
Email: Andrew@NomadCapitalist.com
With recent news coming out that the EU wants to restrict visa-free travel for Americans, Andrew retouches on a topic he spoke about last week — second passports. Don’t let your ego get in the way of a second passport from a ‘lesser’ country. The reality is that those ‘first world passports’ are hard to come by and require an extensive investment on your time. However, there are plenty of fantastic T and B tier passport for a good value, if you’re willing to take ego out of it.
Key Takeaways:
Andrew's Editorial:
[1:55] It’s up to you to decide whether or not you need an additional passport.
[3:00] How likely is it to happen that Americans will lose their visa-free travel to Europe?
[5:00] Ha! Moldova citizenship. Good luck living in your mud hut (as some would say).
[6:15] Colombia ain’t a bad place to be, frankly.
[7:05] Having an EU passport is where it’s at. You can stay busy for the rest of your life in Europe.
[9:10] Georgia and Montenegro are some of the friendliest places on earth to investors.
[10:05] Want a second passport? Have an open mind. Getting a canadian passport is hard!
[10:45] Don’t let your ego get in the way of being a Dominican, for example.
Interview:
[11:55] Last time Andrew spoke to Reid, he was big on Cambodia and loves Asia. What things have changed in the last couple of years?
[12:50] Why Asia? How did Reid get started in all of this?
[15:15] How has the acting industry changed when Reid was a kid and part of the Screen Actors Guild?
[19:20] There’s not enough demand to meet up with the supply of readily-available actors.
[22:05] Reid has learned a lot of relevant life lesson from being a child actor.
[26:45] Child actors = Chick magnet ... right?
[29:25] How did Reid grow his wealth?
[34:50] Andrew believes it’s important to invest wisely. Who knows what Amazon stock will do tomorrow? Diversify your assets!
[35:25] A lot of financial institutions will acquaint risk with volatility. Risk and volatility are two very different things!
[39:25] Reid moved to Thailand at the age of 18 to attend university.
[42:35] Why is Reid in Bangkok?
[45:05] Does the average person want to live in Cambodia?
[47:45] Foreigners love Bangkok because it has become a little slice of America, so to speak.
[49:15] How possible is to become a Cambodian citizen?
[50:45] Be aware of the scam passports.
[52:30] Why is Cambodia number one for investors/foreigners?
[54:25] Cambodia doesn’t have a McDonald’s, but they do have a Starbucks.
Mentioned in This Episode:
Email: Andrew@NomadCapitalist.com