This episode is Part 1 of Stephanie's conversation with Michele Coleman. Make sure you subscribe for Part 2 coming in the next episode.

In this episode I’m joined by one of our lovely clients, Michele Coleman, an Irish woman who left for the UK over 30 years ago to build a brilliant career in teaching and special education, and who has now started the journey home.

Michele shares why she always felt that pull back to Ireland, even while enjoying opportunities in the UK that simply wouldn’t have been available to her here at the time.

We talk about the reality of coming back after decades away – the emotional side as much as the practical. Michele explains what’s different about day-to-day life in Ireland compared to the southeast of England, from pace of life and community to the small interactions that make you feel like you belong. There’s even a mention of how the Irish drive differently!

Michele’s story will give you a very honest feel for what “home” can look like after so many years, and why the pull back to Ireland is so strong despite decades away.

Main Topics:

1. Michele’s Career Journey in the UK: Michele shares how a lack of opportunities in Ireland initially pushed her to the UK, where she built a long, successful career across mainstream and special education.
2. The Emotional Pull of Returning to Ireland: Despite thriving professionally abroad, Michele describes a constant desire to return home, rooted in family, friendships, and a deep cultural connection.
3. Life Transitions and Timing the Move Back: Michele speaks candidly about personal loss, retirement, and the moment she finally decided the time was right to buy a home in Ireland—even making the offer from Spain.
4. Cultural and Lifestyle Differences Between Ireland and the UK: She reflects on the contrast in pace of life, accessibility, commuting, and social interactions, highlighting what feels distinctly Irish versus life in the southeast of England.
5. Belonging, Community, and the Irish “Way of Being”: Michele and Stephanie discuss the everyday warmth, banter, and sense of community that define Irish life—and why those small moments matter so much to returning expats.

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