Anne Reiffenstein, a volunteer with Military Family Services (MFS) Europe developed a podcast to help those making the move overseas get to know their new posting location and gain some tips before the big change takes place.
The podcast, titled The OUTCAN Experience, covers topics such as planning for your children’s education, how to ship your pet, how to cope with culture shock and how an OUTCAN posting can benefit your career.
As a CAF member and military spouse, Anne is able offer valuable insight and share her own experiences and the tips she’s learned along the way.
“Anne's podcast gives a genuine picture of what it is like to live in Europe from a Canadian perspective,” says Joany Beauregard, Manager, MFS Europe. “The interviews with different Canadians posted all across Europe in various locations are informative and thoughtful. Although they give a personal perspective, the podcast is an amazing resource for families curious to know what it's like to live OUTCAN, for families that are screening for an OUTCAN posting in Europe or even for those who are already posted in Europe but who want to know more about other locations.”
Reiffenstein knows first-hand how challenging certain aspects can be and she hopes her podcast can help alleviate some of the concerns and questions some might be feeling.
“It’s not the travel lifestyle or the adventure aspect of the move you need to focus on. It’s what does the day-to-day look like,” says Anne. “It can be difficult, because every day you’re facing a new challenge, some are bigger and some are smaller and it’s being open to the new experience.”