From Washington D.C. to Costa Rica with Ayoka B.
SEASON 7 EPISODE 6 |Flourish in the Foreign - Black Women Living & Thriving Abroad
Support for today’s episode comes from the Center for US Voters Abroad Foundation. Ayoka B. delves into her experiences of moving to the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica. She recounts her upbringing in a Black activist household, her professional and academic journey, the emotional and logistical difficulties of transitioning to a new country, and the profound sense of freedom and safety she has found in Costa Rica.
Support for today’s episode comes from the Center for US Voters Abroad Foundation, a nonprofit, nonpartisan civic engagement organization that helps Americans living outside the U.S. vote via absentee ballot. Request your absentee ballot today using their tool here: https://usvotersabroad.org/podcast
Meet Ayoka
Ayoka B. tells the untold stories of mothers, sisters, daughters, and wives. Through her unique lens, she explores these voices through poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction.
Her debut novel, Love At Second Sight, was published in 2024. Works in progress include a spin-off of her debut, a collection of humorous vignettes for women, two poetry collections, and a YA paranormal novel. She is also co-host of a new podcast, Writing While Black.
Connect with Ayoka
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ayokad
Threads: https://www.threads.com/@joyinhome
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtKNu_pu-X29xtZ86jluA3A
What resources (books, blogs, services, apps) did you utilize to help you go abroad & thrive abroad?
I didn’t use any such resources. Once here, the people and community were our resources.
What's something you wish people would ask you about your life abroad?
I wish people asked how different I feel. My body and spirit are unburdened, and I feel joy in a way that I couldn’t before.
What wellness practices/mindset shifts have you adopted to support your wellness, sustainability, and longevity abroad?
Minimalism. I got rid of a lot of material items before we moved. I didn’t want all of that clutter in my new life. Nature/sun. I go outside daily. I put my feet in the grass or sand. Downshift. I move slower and with intent.
What is the motto (affirmation, prayer, poem, song lyrics, etc.) that you live by?
I am woman, I am fearless
I am sexy, I'm divine
I'm unbeatable, I'm creative
Honey, you can get in line
I am feminine, I am masculine
I am anything I want
I can teach you, I can love you
If you got it goin' on
This Episode Covers:
Planning the Move to Costa Rica
Adjusting to Life in Costa Rica
Reflections on Identity and Well-being
Overcoming Fear and Finding Safety
Healing Through Yoga and Nature
Rediscovering Writing and Creativity
Community Building and Cultural Respect
Reflections on Aging and Wellness
Episode Credits:
Christine Job-Creator & Host
Zachary Higgs-Theme Music
Subscribe to the Substack: https://christinejob.substack.com/
If you enjoyed this episode, listen to these next:
Reading As A Pathway to Wellness with Emely Rumble of “Bibliotherapy in the Bronx”
Mexico, Vietnam & Colombia with Jazzie Más
Be Sure to Follow Flourish in the Foreign on Social Media