The Bittersweet Life
WARNING: This show might change your life. What began as a podcast about what it means to live abroad has become a dynamic examination of what it means to live. Public Radio’s Katy Sewall and Italy expert, Tiffany Parks, guide you on a vulnerable, entertaining journey to discover a more wondrous and adventurous life. Their famous guests, topic-based conversations, and visits to Rome will tweak how you see the world, keep you company, and expand your life view.
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Bittersweet Peek: A ChatGPT Party
01/07/2026
Bittersweet Peek: A ChatGPT Party
To celebrate the New Year, we ask ChatGPT to create a party for us! Is A.I. a good party planner? Or do the humans do it better? Listen in and send us your vote! This is just a sneak peek of a much longer bonus episode, available exclusively to our generous Patreon supporters. Want to hear more? Become part of the Bittersweet Life community by supporting just on ! For as little as $5 per month—less than the price of a coffee in some places—you will have access to multiple bonus episodes every single month. You'll hear conversations that would never take place on the main show, you'll be part of our new chat community, you'll have access to Patreon-only content in addition to bonus episodes, and you'll be invited to join us for regular live meet-ups. But most importantly, you'll be doing your part to help keep this show alive—an independent podcast with no corporate support. (You'll also help keep it virtually ad-free!) Check our our for all the details, and consider joining us at the $5 level or above. We are eternally grateful! ------------------------------------- COME TO ROME WITH US: Our third annual Bittersweet Life Roman Adventure is in the books! If you'd like to join us in 2026, and be part of an intimate group of listeners on a magical and unforgettable journey to Rome, discovering the city with us as your guides, find out more . ADVERTISE WITH US: Reach expats, future expats, and travelers all over the world. Send us an to get the conversation started. BECOME A PATRON: Pledge your monthly support of The Bittersweet Life and receive awesome prizes in return for your generosity! Visit our to find out more. TIP YOUR PODCASTER: Say thanks with a one-time donation to the podcast hosts you know and love. Click to send financial support via PayPal. (You can also find a Donate button on the desktop version of our .) The show needs your support to continue. START PODCASTING: If you are planning to start your own podcast, consider for your hosting service! Use this to get two months free, or use our promo code SWEET when you sign up. SUBSCRIBE: to the podcast to make sure you never miss an episode. Click to find us on a variety of podcast apps. WRITE A REVIEW: Leave us a rating and a written review on so more listeners can find us. JOIN THE CONVERSATION: If you have a question or a topic you want us to address, send us an email . You can also connect to us through , , and . Tag with your expat story for a chance to be featured! NEW TO THE SHOW? Don't be afraid to start with BOOK: Want to read Tiffany's book, Midnight in the Piazza? Learn more or order on . TOUR ROME: If you're traveling to Rome, don't miss the chance to with Tiffany as your guide!
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Episode 610: Fountains Aren't Free Anymore
01/05/2026
Episode 610: Fountains Aren't Free Anymore
Have you heard the news? The City of Rome will now be charging a 2 Euro fee to tourists who want to access the Trevi Fountain. Want to throw your coin in? You're going to have to pony up a few more coins that you'd counted on. This week, we talk about the ways a city can change, thanks to rampant over-tourism as well as other factors, and why seeing our city change before our eyes—for better or for worse—often makes us nostalgic for the past. What else used to be free in Rome that now costs money? (Turns out, a lot.) Tune in to our latest episode, and don't forget to share your thoughts—do you think Rome is right to charge an extra fee for getting close to the Trevi Fountain? Or should outdoor attractions be free no matter what? Read about the city's decision to impose this new fee . ------------------------------------- COME TO ROME WITH US: Our third annual Bittersweet Life Roman Adventure is in the books! If you'd like to join us in 2026, and be part of an intimate group of listeners on a magical and unforgettable journey to Rome, discovering the city with us as your guides, find out more . ADVERTISE WITH US: Reach expats, future expats, and travelers all over the world. Send us an to get the conversation started. BECOME A PATRON: Pledge your monthly support of The Bittersweet Life and receive awesome prizes in return for your generosity! Visit our to find out more. TIP YOUR PODCASTER: Say thanks with a one-time donation to the podcast hosts you know and love. Click to send financial support via PayPal. (You can also find a Donate button on the desktop version of our .) The show needs your support to continue. START PODCASTING: If you are planning to start your own podcast, consider for your hosting service! Use this to get two months free, or use our promo code SWEET when you sign up. SUBSCRIBE: to the podcast to make sure you never miss an episode. Click to find us on a variety of podcast apps. WRITE A REVIEW: Leave us a rating and a written review on so more listeners can find us. JOIN THE CONVERSATION: If you have a question or a topic you want us to address, send us an email . You can also connect to us through , , and . Tag with your expat story for a chance to be featured! NEW TO THE SHOW? Don't be afraid to start with BOOK: Want to read Tiffany's book, Midnight in the Piazza? Learn more or order on . TOUR ROME: If you're traveling to Rome, don't miss the chance to with Tiffany as your guide!
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The Bittersweet Past: Walking the Camino de Santiago (with Aarin Wright)
01/02/2026
The Bittersweet Past: Walking the Camino de Santiago (with Aarin Wright)
This January, our archive episodes—presented every Friday—will cover the theme of ADVENTURE! Because we could all use a little more adventure in our lives, and January is the perfect time to start thinking about the adventures we want to take during the new year. The Camino de Santiago is a popular pilgrimage route across Spain. On this episode from our archives, our guest Aarin Wright set off on the Camino with her father after finishing university. Was all the walking as rewarding as she had hoped? *** podcast has been on the air for an impressive 10+ years! In order to help newer listeners discover some of our earlier episodes, every Friday we are now airing an episode from ! Enjoy!*** ------------------------------------- COME TO ROME WITH US: Our third annual Bittersweet Life Roman Adventure is in the books! If you'd like to join us in 2026, and be part of an intimate group of listeners on a magical and unforgettable journey to Rome, discovering the city with us as your guides, find out more . ADVERTISE WITH US: Reach expats, future expats, and travelers all over the world. Send us an to get the conversation started. BECOME A PATRON: Pledge your monthly support of The Bittersweet Life and receive awesome prizes in return for your generosity! Visit our to find out more. TIP YOUR PODCASTER: Say thanks with a one-time donation to the podcast hosts you know and love. Click to send financial support via PayPal. (You can also find a Donate button on the desktop version of our .) The show needs your support to continue. START PODCASTING: If you are planning to start your own podcast, consider for your hosting service! Use this to get two months free, or use our promo code SWEET when you sign up. SUBSCRIBE: to the podcast to make sure you never miss an episode. Click to find us on a variety of podcast apps. WRITE A REVIEW: Leave us a rating and a written review on so more listeners can find us. JOIN THE CONVERSATION: If you have a question or a topic you want us to address, send us an email . You can also connect to us through , , and . Tag with your expat story for a chance to be featured! NEW TO THE SHOW? Don't be afraid to start with BOOK: Want to read Tiffany's book, Midnight in the Piazza? Learn more or order on . TOUR ROME: If you're traveling to Rome, don't miss the chance to with Tiffany as your guide!
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Episode 609: New Year, New Resolutions
12/29/2025
Episode 609: New Year, New Resolutions
It's that time of year—New Year's Resolution time! If you're a longtime listener you know that at every turn of the year, Katy and Tiffany revisit the New Year's Resolutions they made for the previous year, and assess (with brutal honesty) how they did. They end the episode with the announcement of their resolutions for the year to come. This year, Tiffany share the ingenious yet simple hack that makes crushing your resolutions much more doable. And Katy discovers that sometimes, keeping your resolutions is just not worth the effort. Find out if they did what they said they were going to do, and what they resolve to do in 2026! Listen to the end to hear a special performance by Tiffany! Curious about our previous editions? You can listen back to them all: (2024–>2025) (2023–>2024) & (2022—>2023) (2021—>2022) (2020—>2021) (2019—>2020) (2018—>2019) Other fun resolution episodes: ------------------------------------- COME TO ROME WITH US: Our third annual Bittersweet Life Roman Adventure is in the books! If you'd like to join us in 2026, and be part of an intimate group of listeners on a magical and unforgettable journey to Rome, discovering the city with us as your guides, find out more . ADVERTISE WITH US: Reach expats, future expats, and travelers all over the world. Send us an to get the conversation started. BECOME A PATRON: Pledge your monthly support of The Bittersweet Life and receive awesome prizes in return for your generosity! Visit our to find out more. TIP YOUR PODCASTER: Say thanks with a one-time donation to the podcast hosts you know and love. Click to send financial support via PayPal. (You can also find a Donate button on the desktop version of our .) The show needs your support to continue. START PODCASTING: If you are planning to start your own podcast, consider for your hosting service! Use this to get two months free, or use our promo code SWEET when you sign up. SUBSCRIBE: to the podcast to make sure you never miss an episode. Click to find us on a variety of podcast apps. WRITE A REVIEW: Leave us a rating and a written review on so more listeners can find us. JOIN THE CONVERSATION: If you have a question or a topic you want us to address, send us an email . You can also connect to us through , , and . Tag with your expat story for a chance to be featured! NEW TO THE SHOW? Don't be afraid to start with BOOK: Want to read Tiffany's book, Midnight in the Piazza? Learn more or order on . TOUR ROME: If you're traveling to Rome, don't miss the chance to with Tiffany as your guide!
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The Bittersweet Past: Holiday Magic
12/26/2025
The Bittersweet Past: Holiday Magic
Has Christmas lost its magic now that you're all grown up? In this episode from our archives, Katy and Tiffany brainstorm ways to bring that holiday magic back even if you don't believe in Santa anymore. Katy tells the story of the time she played Santa's secret helper to someone she barely knew and they muse on those magical moments when heaven and earth seem closer than usual. If you're already feeling the post-Christmas blues, snuggle up with a cup of cocoa and this nostalgic episode from the past. *** podcast has been on the air for an impressive 10+ years! In order to help newer listeners discover some of our earlier episodes, every Friday we are now airing an episode from ! Enjoy!*** ------------------------------------- COME TO ROME WITH US: Our third annual Bittersweet Life Roman Adventure is in the books! If you'd like to join us in 2026, and be part of an intimate group of listeners on a magical and unforgettable journey to Rome, discovering the city with us as your guides, find out more . ADVERTISE WITH US: Reach expats, future expats, and travelers all over the world. Send us an to get the conversation started. BECOME A PATRON: Pledge your monthly support of The Bittersweet Life and receive awesome prizes in return for your generosity! Visit our to find out more. TIP YOUR PODCASTER: Say thanks with a one-time donation to the podcast hosts you know and love. Click to send financial support via PayPal. (You can also find a Donate button on the desktop version of our .) The show needs your support to continue. START PODCASTING: If you are planning to start your own podcast, consider for your hosting service! Use this to get two months free, or use our promo code SWEET when you sign up. SUBSCRIBE: to the podcast to make sure you never miss an episode. Click to find us on a variety of podcast apps. WRITE A REVIEW: Leave us a rating and a written review on so more listeners can find us. JOIN THE CONVERSATION: If you have a question or a topic you want us to address, send us an email . You can also connect to us through , , and . Tag with your expat story for a chance to be featured! NEW TO THE SHOW? Don't be afraid to start with BOOK: Want to read Tiffany's book, Midnight in the Piazza? Learn more or order on . TOUR ROME: If you're traveling to Rome, don't miss the chance to with Tiffany as your guide!
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Bittersweet Moment #235: White Christmas: The History of a Classic
12/24/2025
Bittersweet Moment #235: White Christmas: The History of a Classic
You know it. You love it. You hear it every Christmas, and if you're like us, you never get sick of the classic holiday song, White Christmas. But did you know that the song has a very special, and very poignant, history? On this mini-episode, Katy tells you all about it. ------------------------------------- COME TO ROME WITH US: Our third annual Bittersweet Life Roman Adventure is in the books! If you'd like to join us in 2026, and be part of an intimate group of listeners on a magical and unforgettable journey to Rome, discovering the city with us as your guides, find out more . ADVERTISE WITH US: Reach expats, future expats, and travelers all over the world. Send us an to get the conversation started. BECOME A PATRON: Pledge your monthly support of The Bittersweet Life and receive awesome prizes in return for your generosity! Visit our to find out more. TIP YOUR PODCASTER: Say thanks with a one-time donation to the podcast hosts you know and love. Click to send financial support via PayPal. (You can also find a Donate button on the desktop version of our .) The show needs your support to continue. START PODCASTING: If you are planning to start your own podcast, consider for your hosting service! Use this to get two months free, or use our promo code SWEET when you sign up. SUBSCRIBE: to the podcast to make sure you never miss an episode. Click to find us on a variety of podcast apps. WRITE A REVIEW: Leave us a rating and a written review on so more listeners can find us. JOIN THE CONVERSATION: If you have a question or a topic you want us to address, send us an email . You can also connect to us through , , and . Tag with your expat story for a chance to be featured! NEW TO THE SHOW? Don't be afraid to start with BOOK: Want to read Tiffany's book, Midnight in the Piazza? Learn more or order on . TOUR ROME: If you're traveling to Rome, don't miss the chance to with Tiffany as your guide!
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Episode 608: How Christmas Looked in 2017
12/22/2025
Episode 608: How Christmas Looked in 2017
Christmas traditions can be grounding when you're living in a brand-new place. Tiffany and Katy talk about the joys and challenges of being untethered during the holidays. They also discuss which of their traditions come from childhood and which were added after living in a foreign culture. Bonus: Check out two of our favorite Christmas books: • (The Scratch & Sniff book Tiffany used to read when she was little and ordered for Aurelio) • (One of Katy's favorite Christmas books) ------------------------------------- COME TO ROME WITH US: Our third annual Bittersweet Life Roman Adventure is in the books! If you'd like to join us in 2026, and be part of an intimate group of listeners on a magical and unforgettable journey to Rome, discovering the city with us as your guides, find out more . ADVERTISE WITH US: Reach expats, future expats, and travelers all over the world. Send us an to get the conversation started. BECOME A PATRON: Pledge your monthly support of The Bittersweet Life and receive awesome prizes in return for your generosity! Visit our to find out more. TIP YOUR PODCASTER: Say thanks with a one-time donation to the podcast hosts you know and love. Click to send financial support via PayPal. (You can also find a Donate button on the desktop version of our .) The show needs your support to continue. START PODCASTING: If you are planning to start your own podcast, consider for your hosting service! Use this to get two months free, or use our promo code SWEET when you sign up. SUBSCRIBE: to the podcast to make sure you never miss an episode. Click to find us on a variety of podcast apps. WRITE A REVIEW: Leave us a rating and a written review on so more listeners can find us. JOIN THE CONVERSATION: If you have a question or a topic you want us to address, send us an email . You can also connect to us through , , and . Tag with your expat story for a chance to be featured! NEW TO THE SHOW? Don't be afraid to start with BOOK: Want to read Tiffany's book, Midnight in the Piazza? Learn more or order on . TOUR ROME: If you're traveling to Rome, don't miss the chance to with Tiffany as your guide!
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The Bittersweet Past: Finding Your Joyous Life (with/Sarah McColl)
12/19/2025
The Bittersweet Past: Finding Your Joyous Life (with/Sarah McColl)
Do I deserve to live a bigger life? Sarah McColl, author of the memoir Joy Enough, joins us to talk about the beautiful life she discovered while living alongside her dying mother. In this probing coversation from our archives, we also explore how fear, loss, and the expectations of others can limit our potentially terrific lives. Find McColl's memoir Joy Enough . Find Sarah on or at . *** podcast has been on the air for an impressive 10+ years! In order to help newer listeners discover some of our earlier episodes, every Friday we are now airing an episode from ! Enjoy!*** ------------------------------------- COME TO ROME WITH US: Our third annual Bittersweet Life Roman Adventure is in the books! If you'd like to join us in 2026, and be part of an intimate group of listeners on a magical and unforgettable journey to Rome, discovering the city with us as your guides, find out more . ADVERTISE WITH US: Reach expats, future expats, and travelers all over the world. Send us an to get the conversation started. BECOME A PATRON: Pledge your monthly support of The Bittersweet Life and receive awesome prizes in return for your generosity! Visit our to find out more. TIP YOUR PODCASTER: Say thanks with a one-time donation to the podcast hosts you know and love. Click to send financial support via PayPal. (You can also find a Donate button on the desktop version of our .) The show needs your support to continue. START PODCASTING: If you are planning to start your own podcast, consider for your hosting service! Use this to get two months free, or use our promo code SWEET when you sign up. SUBSCRIBE: to the podcast to make sure you never miss an episode. Click to find us on a variety of podcast apps. WRITE A REVIEW: Leave us a rating and a written review on so more listeners can find us. JOIN THE CONVERSATION: If you have a question or a topic you want us to address, send us an email . You can also connect to us through , , and . Tag with your expat story for a chance to be featured! NEW TO THE SHOW? Don't be afraid to start with BOOK: Want to read Tiffany's book, Midnight in the Piazza? Learn more or order on . TOUR ROME: If you're traveling to Rome, don't miss the chance to with Tiffany as your guide!
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Bittersweet Peek: There's No Place like Work for the Holidays
12/17/2025
Bittersweet Peek: There's No Place like Work for the Holidays
The holidays aren't all fun and games. Sometimes you have to go to work. But is there any sort of magic to work this time of year? We discuss this topic on our latest bonus episode, and share some of the memories of times we had to work over Christmas. This is just a sneak peek of a much longer bonus episode, available exclusively to our generous Patreon supporters. Want to hear more? Become part of the Bittersweet Life community by supporting just on ! For as little as $5 per month—less than the price of a coffee in some places—you will have access to multiple bonus episodes every single month. You'll hear conversations that would never take place on the main show, you'll be part of our new chat community, you'll have access to Patreon-only content in addition to bonus episodes, and you'll be invited to join us for regular live meet-ups. But most importantly, you'll be doing your part to help keep this show alive—an independent podcast with no corporate support. (You'll also help keep it virtually ad-free!) Check our our for all the details, and consider joining us at the $5 level or above. We are eternally grateful! ------------------------------------- COME TO ROME WITH US: Our third annual Bittersweet Life Roman Adventure is in the books! If you'd like to join us in 2026, and be part of an intimate group of listeners on a magical and unforgettable journey to Rome, discovering the city with us as your guides, find out more . ADVERTISE WITH US: Reach expats, future expats, and travelers all over the world. Send us an to get the conversation started. BECOME A PATRON: Pledge your monthly support of The Bittersweet Life and receive awesome prizes in return for your generosity! Visit our to find out more. TIP YOUR PODCASTER: Say thanks with a one-time donation to the podcast hosts you know and love. Click to send financial support via PayPal. (You can also find a Donate button on the desktop version of our .) The show needs your support to continue. START PODCASTING: If you are planning to start your own podcast, consider for your hosting service! Use this to get two months free, or use our promo code SWEET when you sign up. SUBSCRIBE: to the podcast to make sure you never miss an episode. Click to find us on a variety of podcast apps. WRITE A REVIEW: Leave us a rating and a written review on so more listeners can find us. JOIN THE CONVERSATION: If you have a question or a topic you want us to address, send us an email . You can also connect to us through , , and . Tag with your expat story for a chance to be featured! NEW TO THE SHOW? Don't be afraid to start with BOOK: Want to read Tiffany's book, Midnight in the Piazza? Learn more or order on . TOUR ROME: If you're traveling to Rome, don't miss the chance to with Tiffany as your guide!
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Episode 607: Pageantry and Anticipation
12/15/2025
Episode 607: Pageantry and Anticipation
The Christmas season starts earlier and earlier every year. Pretty soon we'll be setting up our tree before Halloween! What do you think about this? Are you shamelessly here for it, or do you cringe when you hear Bing Crosby crooning White Christmas in early November? Is the joy that the Christmas season brings enough of an excuse to indulge in it two months before the actual event? Or is there something to be said for the delightful anticpation of Christmas? What do we lose when we no longer allow space to look forward to something? We discuss this and more holiday-related topics on this new episode! ------------------------------------- COME TO ROME WITH US: Our third annual Bittersweet Life Roman Adventure is in the books! If you'd like to join us in 2026, and be part of an intimate group of listeners on a magical and unforgettable journey to Rome, discovering the city with us as your guides, find out more . ADVERTISE WITH US: Reach expats, future expats, and travelers all over the world. Send us an to get the conversation started. BECOME A PATRON: Pledge your monthly support of The Bittersweet Life and receive awesome prizes in return for your generosity! Visit our to find out more. TIP YOUR PODCASTER: Say thanks with a one-time donation to the podcast hosts you know and love. Click to send financial support via PayPal. (You can also find a Donate button on the desktop version of our .) The show needs your support to continue. START PODCASTING: If you are planning to start your own podcast, consider for your hosting service! Use this to get two months free, or use our promo code SWEET when you sign up. SUBSCRIBE: to the podcast to make sure you never miss an episode. Click to find us on a variety of podcast apps. WRITE A REVIEW: Leave us a rating and a written review on so more listeners can find us. JOIN THE CONVERSATION: If you have a question or a topic you want us to address, send us an email . You can also connect to us through , , and . Tag with your expat story for a chance to be featured! NEW TO THE SHOW? Don't be afraid to start with BOOK: Want to read Tiffany's book, Midnight in the Piazza? Learn more or order on . TOUR ROME: If you're traveling to Rome, don't miss the chance to with Tiffany as your guide!
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The Bittersweet Past: The Illusion of Choice (with Tom Vanderbilt)
12/12/2025
The Bittersweet Past: The Illusion of Choice (with Tom Vanderbilt)
Why do you like what you like? Journalist Tom Vanderbilt joins us to explore how our likes and dislikes are formed. His new book is . Find Tom Vanderbilt at or on . His other books include and . *** podcast has been on the air for an impressive 10+ years! In order to help newer listeners discover some of our earlier episodes, every Friday we are now airing an episode from ! Enjoy!*** ------------------------------------- COME TO ROME WITH US: Our third annual Bittersweet Life Roman Adventure is in the books! If you'd like to join us in 2026, and be part of an intimate group of listeners on a magical and unforgettable journey to Rome, discovering the city with us as your guides, find out more . ADVERTISE WITH US: Reach expats, future expats, and travelers all over the world. Send us an to get the conversation started. BECOME A PATRON: Pledge your monthly support of The Bittersweet Life and receive awesome prizes in return for your generosity! Visit our to find out more. TIP YOUR PODCASTER: Say thanks with a one-time donation to the podcast hosts you know and love. Click to send financial support via PayPal. (You can also find a Donate button on the desktop version of our .) The show needs your support to continue. START PODCASTING: If you are planning to start your own podcast, consider for your hosting service! Use this to get two months free, or use our promo code SWEET when you sign up. SUBSCRIBE: to the podcast to make sure you never miss an episode. Click to find us on a variety of podcast apps. WRITE A REVIEW: Leave us a rating and a written review on so more listeners can find us. JOIN THE CONVERSATION: If you have a question or a topic you want us to address, send us an email . You can also connect to us through , , and . Tag with your expat story for a chance to be featured! NEW TO THE SHOW? Don't be afraid to start with BOOK: Want to read Tiffany's book, Midnight in the Piazza? Learn more or order on . TOUR ROME: If you're traveling to Rome, don't miss the chance to with Tiffany as your guide!
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Bittersweet Moment #234: A Surprisingly Perfect Time to Visit Rome
12/10/2025
Bittersweet Moment #234: A Surprisingly Perfect Time to Visit Rome
What's the best time of year to visit Rome? That's a truly impossible question to answer, but Tiffany has an ideal time that might surprise you. Listen to this mini-episode to discover the unlikely perfection of a season you've probably never considered. Don’t miss your chance to visit Rome with us, on our , coming up in October 2026. Find out all about it , or for more information! ------------------------------------- COME TO ROME WITH US: Our third annual Bittersweet Life Roman Adventure is in the books! If you'd like to join us in 2026, and be part of an intimate group of listeners on a magical and unforgettable journey to Rome, discovering the city with us as your guides, find out more . ADVERTISE WITH US: Reach expats, future expats, and travelers all over the world. Send us an to get the conversation started. BECOME A PATRON: Pledge your monthly support of The Bittersweet Life and receive awesome prizes in return for your generosity! Visit our to find out more. TIP YOUR PODCASTER: Say thanks with a one-time donation to the podcast hosts you know and love. Click to send financial support via PayPal. (You can also find a Donate button on the desktop version of our .) The show needs your support to continue. START PODCASTING: If you are planning to start your own podcast, consider for your hosting service! Use this to get two months free, or use our promo code SWEET when you sign up. SUBSCRIBE: to the podcast to make sure you never miss an episode. Click to find us on a variety of podcast apps. WRITE A REVIEW: Leave us a rating and a written review on so more listeners can find us. JOIN THE CONVERSATION: If you have a question or a topic you want us to address, send us an email . You can also connect to us through , , and . Tag with your expat story for a chance to be featured! NEW TO THE SHOW? Don't be afraid to start with BOOK: Want to read Tiffany's book, Midnight in the Piazza? Learn more or order on . TOUR ROME: If you're traveling to Rome, don't miss the chance to with Tiffany as your guide!
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Episode 606: The Anxiety of the Unexpected
12/08/2025
Episode 606: The Anxiety of the Unexpected
A sudden change of plans, an unexpected surgery—these are the kinds of things that can throw your world into temporary disarray, and often cause no little anxiety in the process. On this personal and vulnerable episode, Tiffany and Katy discuss their recent experiences with the anxiety of the unexpected, and how best to deal with those inevitable times that life throws you a curve ball. ------------------------------------- COME TO ROME WITH US: Our third annual Bittersweet Life Roman Adventure is in the books! If you'd like to join us in 2026, and be part of an intimate group of listeners on a magical and unforgettable journey to Rome, discovering the city with us as your guides, find out more . ADVERTISE WITH US: Reach expats, future expats, and travelers all over the world. Send us an to get the conversation started. BECOME A PATRON: Pledge your monthly support of The Bittersweet Life and receive awesome prizes in return for your generosity! Visit our to find out more. TIP YOUR PODCASTER: Say thanks with a one-time donation to the podcast hosts you know and love. Click to send financial support via PayPal. (You can also find a Donate button on the desktop version of our .) The show needs your support to continue. START PODCASTING: If you are planning to start your own podcast, consider for your hosting service! Use this to get two months free, or use our promo code SWEET when you sign up. SUBSCRIBE: to the podcast to make sure you never miss an episode. Click to find us on a variety of podcast apps. WRITE A REVIEW: Leave us a rating and a written review on so more listeners can find us. JOIN THE CONVERSATION: If you have a question or a topic you want us to address, send us an email . You can also connect to us through , , and . Tag with your expat story for a chance to be featured! NEW TO THE SHOW? Don't be afraid to start with BOOK: Want to read Tiffany's book, Midnight in the Piazza? Learn more or order on . TOUR ROME: If you're traveling to Rome, don't miss the chance to with Tiffany as your guide!
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The Bittersweet Past: Honing Your Visual Intelligence (with Amy Herman)
12/05/2025
The Bittersweet Past: Honing Your Visual Intelligence (with Amy Herman)
Can studying fine art keep you safe? According to today's guest Amy Herman it can. Lawyer and art historian, Herman uses works of art to "sharpen observation, analysis, and communication skills. By showing people how to look closely at painting, sculpture, and photography, she helps them hone their to recognize the most pertinent and useful information as well as recognize biases that impede decision making." Amy has trained police officers, doctors, military members, and special operatives to see the world in a richer way through observing art—and in turn, use that skill to improve their effectiveness on the job. On this episode from our archives, Amy shares her secrets. Find Amy Herman on or at . *** podcast has been on the air for an impressive 10+ years! In order to help newer listeners discover some of our earlier episodes, every Friday we are now airing an episode from ! Enjoy!*** ------------------------------------- COME TO ROME WITH US: Our third annual Bittersweet Life Roman Adventure is in the books! If you'd like to join us in 2026, and be part of an intimate group of listeners on a magical and unforgettable journey to Rome, discovering the city with us as your guides, find out more . ADVERTISE WITH US: Reach expats, future expats, and travelers all over the world. Send us an to get the conversation started. BECOME A PATRON: Pledge your monthly support of The Bittersweet Life and receive awesome prizes in return for your generosity! Visit our to find out more. TIP YOUR PODCASTER: Say thanks with a one-time donation to the podcast hosts you know and love. Click to send financial support via PayPal. (You can also find a Donate button on the desktop version of our .) The show needs your support to continue. START PODCASTING: If you are planning to start your own podcast, consider for your hosting service! Use this to get two months free, or use our promo code SWEET when you sign up. SUBSCRIBE: to the podcast to make sure you never miss an episode. Click to find us on a variety of podcast apps. WRITE A REVIEW: Leave us a rating and a written review on so more listeners can find us. JOIN THE CONVERSATION: If you have a question or a topic you want us to address, send us an email . You can also connect to us through , , and . Tag with your expat story for a chance to be featured! NEW TO THE SHOW? Don't be afraid to start with BOOK: Want to read Tiffany's book, Midnight in the Piazza? Learn more or order on . TOUR ROME: If you're traveling to Rome, don't miss the chance to with Tiffany as your guide!
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Bittersweet Peek: A Promise—Kept or Broken? (You Decide)
12/03/2025
Bittersweet Peek: A Promise—Kept or Broken? (You Decide)
Tiffany made a big promise last month about her video watching habit. Here's an update on what's happened since that episode aired. This is just a sneak peek of a much longer bonus episode, available exclusively to our generous Patreon supporters. Want to hear more? Become part of the Bittersweet Life community by supporting just on ! For as little as $5 per month—less than the price of a coffee in some places—you will have access to multiple bonus episodes every single month. You'll hear conversations that would never take place on the main show, you'll be part of our new chat community, you'll have access to Patreon-only content in addition to bonus episodes, and you'll be invited to join us for regular live meet-ups. But most importantly, you'll be doing your part to help keep this show alive—an independent podcast with no corporate support. (You'll also help keep it virtually ad-free!) Check our our for all the details, and consider joining us at the $5 level or above. We are eternally grateful! ------------------------------------- COME TO ROME WITH US: Our third annual Bittersweet Life Roman Adventure is in the books! If you'd like to join us in 2026, and be part of an intimate group of listeners on a magical and unforgettable journey to Rome, discovering the city with us as your guides, find out more . ADVERTISE WITH US: Reach expats, future expats, and travelers all over the world. Send us an to get the conversation started. BECOME A PATRON: Pledge your monthly support of The Bittersweet Life and receive awesome prizes in return for your generosity! Visit our to find out more. TIP YOUR PODCASTER: Say thanks with a one-time donation to the podcast hosts you know and love. Click to send financial support via PayPal. (You can also find a Donate button on the desktop version of our .) The show needs your support to continue. START PODCASTING: If you are planning to start your own podcast, consider for your hosting service! Use this to get two months free, or use our promo code SWEET when you sign up. SUBSCRIBE: to the podcast to make sure you never miss an episode. Click to find us on a variety of podcast apps. WRITE A REVIEW: Leave us a rating and a written review on so more listeners can find us. JOIN THE CONVERSATION: If you have a question or a topic you want us to address, send us an email . You can also connect to us through , , and . Tag with your expat story for a chance to be featured! NEW TO THE SHOW? Don't be afraid to start with BOOK: Want to read Tiffany's book, Midnight in the Piazza? Learn more or order on . TOUR ROME: If you're traveling to Rome, don't miss the chance to with Tiffany as your guide!
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Episode 605: An Update on Katy's Sister Dana
12/01/2025
Episode 605: An Update on Katy's Sister Dana
Today we catch up with Katy's sister Dana to hear the latest on her battle with aggressive brain cancer. If you want to hear more of Dana's story and her fight with brain cancer, check out these recent episodes: Episode 575: Episode 577: Episode 591: ***Katy's sister Dana has recently been diagnosed with stage 4 agressive brain cancer. To help with the staggering medical costs—her specialist is outside her insurance network—as well of the costs of temporarily relocating to San Francsico for her treatments, please consider donating to her . Anything you can contribute will be extremely helpful. Thank you.*** ------------------------------------- COME TO ROME WITH US: Our third annual Bittersweet Life Roman Adventure is in the books! If you'd like to join us in 2026, and be part of an intimate group of listeners on a magical and unforgettable journey to Rome, discovering the city with us as your guides, find out more . ADVERTISE WITH US: Reach expats, future expats, and travelers all over the world. Send us an to get the conversation started. BECOME A PATRON: Pledge your monthly support of The Bittersweet Life and receive awesome prizes in return for your generosity! Visit our to find out more. TIP YOUR PODCASTER: Say thanks with a one-time donation to the podcast hosts you know and love. Click to send financial support via PayPal. (You can also find a Donate button on the desktop version of our .) The show needs your support to continue. START PODCASTING: If you are planning to start your own podcast, consider for your hosting service! Use this to get two months free, or use our promo code SWEET when you sign up. SUBSCRIBE: to the podcast to make sure you never miss an episode. Click to find us on a variety of podcast apps. WRITE A REVIEW: Leave us a rating and a written review on so more listeners can find us. JOIN THE CONVERSATION: If you have a question or a topic you want us to address, send us an email . You can also connect to us through , , and . Tag with your expat story for a chance to be featured! NEW TO THE SHOW? Don't be afraid to start with BOOK: Want to read Tiffany's book, Midnight in the Piazza? Learn more or order on . TOUR ROME: If you're traveling to Rome, don't miss the chance to with Tiffany as your guide!
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The Bittersweet Past: The Inevitability of Expat Guilt (with Jessica Scott-Reid)
11/28/2025
The Bittersweet Past: The Inevitability of Expat Guilt (with Jessica Scott-Reid)
Among the plethora of emotions that plague expats, one of them is guilt. What happens when you know you should go home, but don't? Guest Jessica Scott-Reid tackled just this subject for . On this episode from our archives, Jessica joins Katy and Tiffany to discuss this often unpleasant subject. *** podcast has been on the air for an impressive 10+ years! In order to help newer listeners discover some of our earlier episodes, every Friday we are now airing an episode from ! Enjoy!*** ------------------------------------- COME TO ROME WITH US: Our third annual Bittersweet Life Roman Adventure is in the books! If you'd like to join us in 2026, and be part of an intimate group of listeners on a magical and unforgettable journey to Rome, discovering the city with us as your guides, find out more . ADVERTISE WITH US: Reach expats, future expats, and travelers all over the world. Send us an to get the conversation started. BECOME A PATRON: Pledge your monthly support of The Bittersweet Life and receive awesome prizes in return for your generosity! Visit our to find out more. TIP YOUR PODCASTER: Say thanks with a one-time donation to the podcast hosts you know and love. Click to send financial support via PayPal. (You can also find a Donate button on the desktop version of our .) The show needs your support to continue. START PODCASTING: If you are planning to start your own podcast, consider for your hosting service! Use this to get two months free, or use our promo code SWEET when you sign up. SUBSCRIBE: to the podcast to make sure you never miss an episode. Click to find us on a variety of podcast apps. WRITE A REVIEW: Leave us a rating and a written review on so more listeners can find us. JOIN THE CONVERSATION: If you have a question or a topic you want us to address, send us an email . You can also connect to us through , , and . Tag with your expat story for a chance to be featured! NEW TO THE SHOW? Don't be afraid to start with BOOK: Want to read Tiffany's book, Midnight in the Piazza? Learn more or order on . TOUR ROME: If you're traveling to Rome, don't miss the chance to with Tiffany as your guide!
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Episode 604: How to Go Deeper when Traveling
11/24/2025
Episode 604: How to Go Deeper when Traveling
For some travelers, visiting the sites just isn't enough. One of our listeners wrote to express her longing to go deeper when traveling, far beyond the monuments, art, cuisine, and local culture. Into the very life and people of the place she's visiting. But how do you go about that? Today we offer our practical tips. Got a question? Send us an email (or better yet, record a voice message asking the question yourself) and if the questions resonates with us, we might just do a whole episode around it! ------------------------------------- COME TO ROME WITH US: Our third annual Bittersweet Life Roman Adventure 2025 is in the books! If you'd like to join us in 2026, and be part of an intimate group of listeners on a magical and unforgettable journey to Rome, discovering the city with us as your guides, find out more . ADVERTISE WITH US: Reach expats, future expats, and travelers all over the world. Send us an to get the conversation started. BECOME A PATRON: Pledge your monthly support of The Bittersweet Life and receive awesome prizes in return for your generosity! Visit our to find out more. TIP YOUR PODCASTER: Say thanks with a one-time donation to the podcast hosts you know and love. Click to send financial support via PayPal. (You can also find a Donate button on the desktop version of our .) The show needs your support to continue. START PODCASTING: If you are planning to start your own podcast, consider for your hosting service! Use this to get two months free, or use our promo code SWEET when you sign up. SUBSCRIBE: to the podcast to make sure you never miss an episode. Click to find us on a variety of podcast apps. WRITE A REVIEW: Leave us a rating and a written review on so more listeners can find us. JOIN THE CONVERSATION: If you have a question or a topic you want us to address, send us an email . You can also connect to us through , , and . Tag with your expat story for a chance to be featured! NEW TO THE SHOW? Don't be afraid to start with BOOK: Want to read Tiffany's book, Midnight in the Piazza? Learn more or order on . TOUR ROME: If you're traveling to Rome, don't miss the chance to with Tiffany as your guide!
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The Bittersweet Past: When Life Is Inspired by Art
11/21/2025
The Bittersweet Past: When Life Is Inspired by Art
Could watching a movie inspire you to move abroad? Could reading a book launch a lifetime of travel? Movies and books can have a big influence on personal actions. On this episode from our archives, Tiffany and Katy share the cultural works that have shaped their lives. Listen to the end to find out which film was the impetus for Tiffany's move to Italy. Be a part of the conversation: What art has influenced you? We love hearing from our listeners. Send us an or better yet, record a voice memo telling us about it and it to us. If we get enough responses we may record a follow-up episode—and you could be on it! *** podcast has been on the air for an impressive 10+ years! In order to help newer listeners discover some of our earlier episodes, every Friday we are now airing an episode from ! Enjoy!*** ------------------------------------- COME TO ROME WITH US: Our third annual Bittersweet Life Roman Adventure is all sold out for 2025! If you'd like to join us in 2026, and be part of an intimate group of listeners on a magical and unforgettable journey to Rome, discovering the city with us as your guides, find out more . ADVERTISE WITH US: Reach expats, future expats, and travelers all over the world. Send us an to get the conversation started. BECOME A PATRON: Pledge your monthly support of The Bittersweet Life and receive awesome prizes in return for your generosity! Visit our to find out more. TIP YOUR PODCASTER: Say thanks with a one-time donation to the podcast hosts you know and love. Click to send financial support via PayPal. (You can also find a Donate button on the desktop version of our .) The show needs your support to continue. START PODCASTING: If you are planning to start your own podcast, consider for your hosting service! Use this to get two months free, or use our promo code SWEET when you sign up. SUBSCRIBE: to the podcast to make sure you never miss an episode. Click to find us on a variety of podcast apps. WRITE A REVIEW: Leave us a rating and a written review on so more listeners can find us. JOIN THE CONVERSATION: If you have a question or a topic you want us to address, send us an email . You can also connect to us through , , and . Tag with your expat story for a chance to be featured! NEW TO THE SHOW? Don't be afraid to start with BOOK: Want to read Tiffany's book, Midnight in the Piazza? Learn more or order on . TOUR ROME: If you're traveling to Rome, don't miss the chance to with Tiffany as your guide!
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Bittersweet Peek: An Armoire for your Smartphone
11/19/2025
Bittersweet Peek: An Armoire for your Smartphone
Tiffany's son Aurelio will soon be in middle school, and the exact age that Katy and Tiffany were when they first met. And, wow, how things have changed. Tiffany reports on her visit to his potential new school. This is just a sneak peek of a much longer bonus episode, available exclusively to our generous Patreon supporters. Want to hear more? Become part of the Bittersweet Life community by supporting just on ! For as little as $5 per month—less than the price of a coffee in some places—you will have access to multiple bonus episodes every single month. You'll hear conversations that would never take place on the main show, you'll be part of our new chat community, you'll have access to Patreon-only content in addition to bonus episodes, and you'll be invited to join us for regular live meet-ups. But most importantly, you'll be doing your part to help keep this show alive—an independent podcast with no corporate support. (You'll also help keep it virtually ad-free!) Check our our for all the details, and consider joining us at the $5 level or above. We are eternally grateful! ------------------------------------- COME TO ROME WITH US: Our third annual Bittersweet Life Roman Adventure is all sold out for 2025! If you'd like to join us in 2026, and be part of an intimate group of listeners on a magical and unforgettable journey to Rome, discovering the city with us as your guides, find out more . ADVERTISE WITH US: Reach expats, future expats, and travelers all over the world. Send us an to get the conversation started. BECOME A PATRON: Pledge your monthly support of The Bittersweet Life and receive awesome prizes in return for your generosity! Visit our to find out more. TIP YOUR PODCASTER: Say thanks with a one-time donation to the podcast hosts you know and love. Click to send financial support via PayPal. (You can also find a Donate button on the desktop version of our .) The show needs your support to continue. START PODCASTING: If you are planning to start your own podcast, consider for your hosting service! Use this to get two months free, or use our promo code SWEET when you sign up. SUBSCRIBE: to the podcast to make sure you never miss an episode. Click to find us on a variety of podcast apps. WRITE A REVIEW: Leave us a rating and a written review on so more listeners can find us. JOIN THE CONVERSATION: If you have a question or a topic you want us to address, send us an email . You can also connect to us through , , and . Tag with your expat story for a chance to be featured! NEW TO THE SHOW? Don't be afraid to start with BOOK: Want to read Tiffany's book, Midnight in the Piazza? Learn more or order on . TOUR ROME: If you're traveling to Rome, don't miss the chance to with Tiffany as your guide!
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Episode 603: The Benefits of Missing the Nuance
11/17/2025
Episode 603: The Benefits of Missing the Nuance
When you're visiting a foreign country, you miss a lot. From conversations around you on the street to advertisements on billboards or your favorite podcast that is suddenly playing you ads in the local language. You also miss a lot of cultural context, and while that can sometimes be problematic, it can also lead to overlooking prejudices that might be common with locals. Can missing the nuance be a good thing? We all know the downsides of being on the outside when in a foreign country, but are there also positives? We discuss this topic on today's brand-new episode. ------------------------------------- COME TO ROME WITH US: Our third annual Bittersweet Life Roman Adventure is all sold out for 2025! If you'd like to join us in 2026, and be part of an intimate group of listeners on a magical and unforgettable journey to Rome, discovering the city with us as your guides, find out more . ADVERTISE WITH US: Reach expats, future expats, and travelers all over the world. Send us an to get the conversation started. BECOME A PATRON: Pledge your monthly support of The Bittersweet Life and receive awesome prizes in return for your generosity! Visit our to find out more. TIP YOUR PODCASTER: Say thanks with a one-time donation to the podcast hosts you know and love. Click to send financial support via PayPal. (You can also find a Donate button on the desktop version of our .) The show needs your support to continue. START PODCASTING: If you are planning to start your own podcast, consider for your hosting service! Use this to get two months free, or use our promo code SWEET when you sign up. SUBSCRIBE: to the podcast to make sure you never miss an episode. Click to find us on a variety of podcast apps. WRITE A REVIEW: Leave us a rating and a written review on so more listeners can find us. JOIN THE CONVERSATION: If you have a question or a topic you want us to address, send us an email . You can also connect to us through , , and . Tag with your expat story for a chance to be featured! NEW TO THE SHOW? Don't be afraid to start with BOOK: Want to read Tiffany's book, Midnight in the Piazza? Learn more or order on . TOUR ROME: If you're traveling to Rome, don't miss the chance to with Tiffany as your guide!
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Bittersweet Past: Armchair Travel (with Nancy Pearl)
11/14/2025
Bittersweet Past: Armchair Travel (with Nancy Pearl)
Don't have the cash or the time off to travel right now? Not to worry! Reading can take you anywhere. On this episode from our archives, we recommend books that will transport you. NPR's Nancy Pearl—quite possibly the world's most famous librarian—is known for giving the perfect book recommendation for any situation. She sits down with us to share her selections for the best armchair travel books. Don't know who Nancy Pearl is? She's an American librarian, best-selling author, and iterary critic. Her prolific reading and her knowledge of books and literature first made her locally famous in Seattle, Washington, where she regularly appears on public radio recommending books. She achieved broader fame with , her 2003 guide to good reading. Pearl was named 2011 Librarian of the Year by Library Journal. Check out her travel-themed recommendations in . *** podcast has been on the air for an impressive 10+ years! In order to help newer listeners discover some of our earlier episodes, every Friday we are now airing an episode from ! Enjoy!*** ------------------------------------- COME TO ROME WITH US: Our third annual Bittersweet Life Roman Adventure is all sold out for 2025! If you'd like to join us in 2026, and be part of an intimate group of listeners on a magical and unforgettable journey to Rome, discovering the city with us as your guides, find out more . ADVERTISE WITH US: Reach expats, future expats, and travelers all over the world. Send us an to get the conversation started. BECOME A PATRON: Pledge your monthly support of The Bittersweet Life and receive awesome prizes in return for your generosity! Visit our to find out more. TIP YOUR PODCASTER: Say thanks with a one-time donation to the podcast hosts you know and love. Click to send financial support via PayPal. (You can also find a Donate button on the desktop version of our .) The show needs your support to continue. START PODCASTING: If you are planning to start your own podcast, consider for your hosting service! Use this to get two months free, or use our promo code SWEET when you sign up. SUBSCRIBE: to the podcast to make sure you never miss an episode. Click to find us on a variety of podcast apps. WRITE A REVIEW: Leave us a rating and a written review on so more listeners can find us. JOIN THE CONVERSATION: If you have a question or a topic you want us to address, send us an email . You can also connect to us through , , and . Tag with your expat story for a chance to be featured! NEW TO THE SHOW? Don't be afraid to start with BOOK: Want to read Tiffany's book, Midnight in the Piazza? Learn more or order on . TOUR ROME: If you're traveling to Rome, don't miss the chance to with Tiffany as your guide!
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Bittersweet Moment #233: The Collapse of Torre dei Conti
11/12/2025
Bittersweet Moment #233: The Collapse of Torre dei Conti
Last week, a thousand-year-old medieval tower in Rome partially collapsed. This disaster for history and Rome's patrimony—which could have been much worse—serves as a reminder that Rome's monuments are not forever. The Torre dei Conti is far from being the only historic building to collapse—partially or completely—in recent years. And antiquity and the Middle Ages witnessed the loss of more treasures of engineering, art, and architecture than we can probably imagine. We think of Rome as eternal (for good reason), but the truth is, Rome’s cityscape is slowly but perpetually changing. Moral of the story: if there's a site in Rome you'd like to visit, do it now. (Before it's gone forever!!) P. S. Don’t miss your chance to visit Rome with us, on our , coming up in October 2026. Find out all about it , or for more information! ------------------------------------- COME TO ROME WITH US: Our third annual Bittersweet Life Roman Adventure is all sold out for 2025! If you'd like to join us in 2026, and be part of an intimate group of listeners on a magical and unforgettable journey to Rome, discovering the city with us as your guides, find out more . ADVERTISE WITH US: Reach expats, future expats, and travelers all over the world. Send us an to get the conversation started. BECOME A PATRON: Pledge your monthly support of The Bittersweet Life and receive awesome prizes in return for your generosity! Visit our to find out more. TIP YOUR PODCASTER: Say thanks with a one-time donation to the podcast hosts you know and love. Click to send financial support via PayPal. (You can also find a Donate button on the desktop version of our .) The show needs your support to continue. START PODCASTING: If you are planning to start your own podcast, consider for your hosting service! Use this to get two months free, or use our promo code SWEET when you sign up. SUBSCRIBE: to the podcast to make sure you never miss an episode. Click to find us on a variety of podcast apps. WRITE A REVIEW: Leave us a rating and a written review on so more listeners can find us. JOIN THE CONVERSATION: If you have a question or a topic you want us to address, send us an email . You can also connect to us through , , and . Tag with your expat story for a chance to be featured! NEW TO THE SHOW? Don't be afraid to start with BOOK: Want to read Tiffany's book, Midnight in the Piazza? Learn more or order on . TOUR ROME: If you're traveling to Rome, don't miss the chance to with Tiffany as your guide!
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Episode 602: It Doesn't Have to Be this Way
11/10/2025
Episode 602: It Doesn't Have to Be this Way
When you spend a good deal of time in a foreign country, going back home can often be eye-opening. Why do we do it this way? Can be a suddenly common thought. Does it have to be this way? You might ask yourself, when considering how things are done in other countries. As Katy returns to the States after a few weeks in Rome, she finds herself shaking her head at the way some things are done in her home country, as well as wondering why Italy can't get its own act together in certain respects. ------------------------------------- COME TO ROME WITH US: Our third annual Bittersweet Life Roman Adventure is all sold out for 2025! If you'd like to join us in 2026, and be part of an intimate group of listeners on a magical and unforgettable journey to Rome, discovering the city with us as your guides, find out more . ADVERTISE WITH US: Reach expats, future expats, and travelers all over the world. Send us an to get the conversation started. BECOME A PATRON: Pledge your monthly support of The Bittersweet Life and receive awesome prizes in return for your generosity! Visit our to find out more. TIP YOUR PODCASTER: Say thanks with a one-time donation to the podcast hosts you know and love. Click to send financial support via PayPal. (You can also find a Donate button on the desktop version of our .) The show needs your support to continue. START PODCASTING: If you are planning to start your own podcast, consider for your hosting service! Use this to get two months free, or use our promo code SWEET when you sign up. SUBSCRIBE: to the podcast to make sure you never miss an episode. Click to find us on a variety of podcast apps. WRITE A REVIEW: Leave us a rating and a written review on so more listeners can find us. JOIN THE CONVERSATION: If you have a question or a topic you want us to address, send us an email . You can also connect to us through , , and . Tag with your expat story for a chance to be featured! NEW TO THE SHOW? Don't be afraid to start with BOOK: Want to read Tiffany's book, Midnight in the Piazza? Learn more or order on . TOUR ROME: If you're traveling to Rome, don't miss the chance to with Tiffany as your guide!
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The Bittersweet Past: Negotiating Italy's Endless Bureaucracy
11/07/2025
The Bittersweet Past: Negotiating Italy's Endless Bureaucracy
Every country has its own bureaucracy... but some countries are worse than others. Part of living in a new country is learning the hoops you need to jump through to keep your life running smoothly. In this episode from our archives, Tiffany talks about how she has learned to deal with Italian bureaucracy, and how doing so is part of the inevitable expat process. What has she learned? *** podcast has been on the air for an impressive 10+ years! In order to help newer listeners discover some of our earlier episodes, every Friday we are now airing an episode from ! Enjoy!*** ------------------------------------- COME TO ROME WITH US: Our third annual Bittersweet Life Roman Adventure is all sold out for 2025! If you'd like to join us in 2026, and be part of an intimate group of listeners on a magical and unforgettable journey to Rome, discovering the city with us as your guides, find out more . ADVERTISE WITH US: Reach expats, future expats, and travelers all over the world. Send us an to get the conversation started. BECOME A PATRON: Pledge your monthly support of The Bittersweet Life and receive awesome prizes in return for your generosity! Visit our to find out more. TIP YOUR PODCASTER: Say thanks with a one-time donation to the podcast hosts you know and love. Click to send financial support via PayPal. (You can also find a Donate button on the desktop version of our .) The show needs your support to continue. START PODCASTING: If you are planning to start your own podcast, consider for your hosting service! Use this to get two months free, or use our promo code SWEET when you sign up. SUBSCRIBE: to the podcast to make sure you never miss an episode. Click to find us on a variety of podcast apps. WRITE A REVIEW: Leave us a rating and a written review on so more listeners can find us. JOIN THE CONVERSATION: If you have a question or a topic you want us to address, send us an email . You can also connect to us through , , and . Tag with your expat story for a chance to be featured! NEW TO THE SHOW? Don't be afraid to start with BOOK: Want to read Tiffany's book, Midnight in the Piazza? Learn more or order on . TOUR ROME: If you're traveling to Rome, don't miss the chance to with Tiffany as your guide!
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Bittersweet Peek: A Promise (on Day One)
11/05/2025
Bittersweet Peek: A Promise (on Day One)
Tiffany is on "Day One!" of a new undertaking. It is something that ALL OF US should probably be doing. Find out what it is, and answer this question: Do you agree that you need to do this too? This is just a sneak peek of a much longer bonus episode, available exclusively to our generous Patreon supporters. Want to hear more? Become part of the Bittersweet Life community by supporting just on ! For as little as $5 per month—less than the price of a coffee in some places—you will have access to multiple bonus episodes every single month. You'll hear conversations that would never take place on the main show, you'll be part of our new chat community, you'll have access to Patreon-only content in addition to bonus episodes, and you'll be invited to join us for regular live meet-ups. But most importantly, you'll be doing your part to help keep this show alive—an independent podcast with no corporate support. (You'll also help keep it virtually ad-free!) Check our our for all the details, and consider joining us at the $5 level or above. We are eternally grateful! ------------------------------------- COME TO ROME WITH US: Our third annual Bittersweet Life Roman Adventure is all sold out for 2025! If you'd like to join us in 2026, and be part of an intimate group of listeners on a magical and unforgettable journey to Rome, discovering the city with us as your guides, find out more . ADVERTISE WITH US: Reach expats, future expats, and travelers all over the world. Send us an to get the conversation started. BECOME A PATRON: Pledge your monthly support of The Bittersweet Life and receive awesome prizes in return for your generosity! Visit our to find out more. TIP YOUR PODCASTER: Say thanks with a one-time donation to the podcast hosts you know and love. Click to send financial support via PayPal. (You can also find a Donate button on the desktop version of our .) The show needs your support to continue. START PODCASTING: If you are planning to start your own podcast, consider for your hosting service! Use this to get two months free, or use our promo code SWEET when you sign up. SUBSCRIBE: to the podcast to make sure you never miss an episode. Click to find us on a variety of podcast apps. WRITE A REVIEW: Leave us a rating and a written review on so more listeners can find us. JOIN THE CONVERSATION: If you have a question or a topic you want us to address, send us an email . You can also connect to us through , , and . Tag with your expat story for a chance to be featured! NEW TO THE SHOW? Don't be afraid to start with BOOK: Want to read Tiffany's book, Midnight in the Piazza? Learn more or order on . TOUR ROME: If you're traveling to Rome, don't miss the chance to with Tiffany as your guide!
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Episode 601: Every Pilgrimage Needs Merch
11/03/2025
Episode 601: Every Pilgrimage Needs Merch
As Katy prepares to leave Rome once again, she and Tiffany muse on the 2025 Jubilee or Holy Year that has taken over Rome this year. How does Holy Year 2025 compare to past Jubilees? And does the change of pope halfway through the year make a difference? And what about merch? How odd is it that a Jubilee (an institution that has been occurring every quarter century in Rome for over 500 years) should have a mascot and official merch? Does that cheapen it or make it more current? And whose job is it to design the Jubilee branding? And how has the city handled this mega-event? Has Rome been up to the task? We discuss on this episode taped on a park bench in Piazza Cavour. ------------------------------------- COME TO ROME WITH US: Our third annual Bittersweet Life Roman Adventure is all sold out for 2025! If you'd like to join us in 2026, and be part of an intimate group of listeners on a magical and unforgettable journey to Rome, discovering the city with us as your guides, find out more . ADVERTISE WITH US: Reach expats, future expats, and travelers all over the world. Send us an to get the conversation started. BECOME A PATRON: Pledge your monthly support of The Bittersweet Life and receive awesome prizes in return for your generosity! Visit our to find out more. TIP YOUR PODCASTER: Say thanks with a one-time donation to the podcast hosts you know and love. Click to send financial support via PayPal. (You can also find a Donate button on the desktop version of our .) The show needs your support to continue. START PODCASTING: If you are planning to start your own podcast, consider for your hosting service! Use this to get two months free, or use our promo code SWEET when you sign up. SUBSCRIBE: to the podcast to make sure you never miss an episode. Click to find us on a variety of podcast apps. WRITE A REVIEW: Leave us a rating and a written review on so more listeners can find us. JOIN THE CONVERSATION: If you have a question or a topic you want us to address, send us an email . You can also connect to us through , , and . Tag with your expat story for a chance to be featured! NEW TO THE SHOW? Don't be afraid to start with BOOK: Want to read Tiffany's book, Midnight in the Piazza? Learn more or order on . TOUR ROME: If you're traveling to Rome, don't miss the chance to with Tiffany as your guide!
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The Bittersweet Past: Getting Comfortable with Death (with Caitlyn Doughty)
10/31/2025
The Bittersweet Past: Getting Comfortable with Death (with Caitlyn Doughty)
Mortician Caitlin Doughty—of fame—joins us on this episode from our archive to talk about death practices around the world. Discover where you'd like to die and what countries deal with mortality best. Find Caitlin on , at her website, , or on her You Tube Channel, ------------------------------------- COME TO ROME WITH US: Our third annual Bittersweet Life Roman Adventure is all sold out for 2025! If you'd like to join us in 2026, and be part of an intimate group of listeners on a magical and unforgettable journey to Rome, discovering the city with us as your guides, find out more . ADVERTISE WITH US: Reach expats, future expats, and travelers all over the world. Send us an to get the conversation started. BECOME A PATRON: Pledge your monthly support of The Bittersweet Life and receive awesome prizes in return for your generosity! Visit our to find out more. TIP YOUR PODCASTER: Say thanks with a one-time donation to the podcast hosts you know and love. Click to send financial support via PayPal. (You can also find a Donate button on the desktop version of our .) The show needs your support to continue. START PODCASTING: If you are planning to start your own podcast, consider for your hosting service! Use this to get two months free, or use our promo code SWEET when you sign up. SUBSCRIBE: to the podcast to make sure you never miss an episode. Click to find us on a variety of podcast apps. WRITE A REVIEW: Leave us a rating and a written review on so more listeners can find us. JOIN THE CONVERSATION: If you have a question or a topic you want us to address, send us an email . You can also connect to us through , , and . Tag with your expat story for a chance to be featured! NEW TO THE SHOW? Don't be afraid to start with BOOK: Want to read Tiffany's book, Midnight in the Piazza? Learn more or order on . TOUR ROME: If you're traveling to Rome, don't miss the chance to with Tiffany as your guide!
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Bittersweet Moment #232: Claudio's Ghost Story
10/29/2025
Bittersweet Moment #232: Claudio's Ghost Story
Mini episode drop! Have you ever seen a ghost? Not just sensed one’s presence, but actually seen one with your own eyes? Tiffany’s husband Claudio has. In honor of Halloween, today we hear his story, a story that took place one frigid night in a tiny hilltop town near Rome. Happy Halloween and happy ghost hunting! ------------------------------------- COME TO ROME WITH US: Want to join our next Bittersweet Life Roman Adventure in October 2026? You'll be part of an intimate group of listeners on a magical and unforgettable journey to Rome, discovering the city with Katy and Tiffany as your guides—and participating in a live episode like this one! Find out more . ADVERTISE WITH US: Reach expats, future expats, and travelers all over the world. Send us an to get the conversation started. BECOME A PATRON: Pledge your monthly support of The Bittersweet Life and receive awesome prizes in return for your generosity! Visit our to find out more. TIP YOUR PODCASTER: Say thanks with a one-time donation to the podcast hosts you know and love. Click to send financial support via PayPal. (You can also find a Donate button on the desktop version of our .) The show needs your support to continue. START PODCASTING: If you are planning to start your own podcast, consider for your hosting service! Use this to get two months free, or use our promo code SWEET when you sign up. SUBSCRIBE: to the podcast to make sure you never miss an episode. Click to find us on a variety of podcast apps. WRITE A REVIEW: Leave us a rating and a written review on so more listeners can find us. JOIN THE CONVERSATION: If you have a question or a topic you want us to address, send us an email . You can also connect to us through , , and . Tag with your expat story for a chance to be featured! NEW TO THE SHOW? Don't be afraid to start with BOOK: Want to read Tiffany's book, Midnight in the Piazza? Learn more or order on . TOUR ROME: If you're traveling to Rome, don't miss the chance to with Tiffany as your guide!
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Episode 600: Reaching Milestones (with our Rome guests)
10/27/2025
Episode 600: Reaching Milestones (with our Rome guests)
So it turns out, 600 episodes is a lot! Katy and Tiffany celebrate the work and dedication it has taken to reach this impressive milestone along with our guests on our third annual Bittersweet Life Roman Adventure, a trip to Rome we take with a small number of our listeners every October. Hear us share our thoughts about this big big number, as well as other milestones we have achieved in our lives. Our guests also share what milestones mean to them, what their greatest ones have been so far, and how they help keep them motivated as well as contribute to a sense of accomplishment and confidence. Be sure to listen all the way to the end to hear another significant milestone that Katy has recently achieved in a different aspect of her life. (You heard it here first!) Want to join our next Bittersweet Life Roman Adventure in October 2026? You'll be part of an intimate group of listeners on a magical and unforgettable journey to Rome, discovering the city with Katy and Tiffany as your guides—and participating in a live episode like this one! Find out more . ------------------------------------- ADVERTISE WITH US: Reach expats, future expats, and travelers all over the world. Send us an to get the conversation started. BECOME A PATRON: Pledge your monthly support of The Bittersweet Life and receive awesome prizes in return for your generosity! Visit our to find out more. TIP YOUR PODCASTER: Say thanks with a one-time donation to the podcast hosts you know and love. Click to send financial support via PayPal. (You can also find a Donate button on the desktop version of our .) The show needs your support to continue. START PODCASTING: If you are planning to start your own podcast, consider for your hosting service! Use this to get two months free, or use our promo code SWEET when you sign up. SUBSCRIBE: to the podcast to make sure you never miss an episode. Click to find us on a variety of podcast apps. WRITE A REVIEW: Leave us a rating and a written review on so more listeners can find us. JOIN THE CONVERSATION: If you have a question or a topic you want us to address, send us an email . You can also connect to us through , , and . Tag with your expat story for a chance to be featured! NEW TO THE SHOW? Don't be afraid to start with BOOK: Want to read Tiffany's book, Midnight in the Piazza? Learn more or order on . TOUR ROME: If you're traveling to Rome, don't miss the chance to with Tiffany as your guide!
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