Sticky Note Conversations

In this episode of Sticky Note Conversations with Erika Washington, Erika talks to Deborah Porter, a former Las Vegas resident who decided to leave the United States and settle in Panama. They discuss the reasons behind Debora's decision, the practicalities of relocating, and the differences in lifestyle between the US and Panama. Deborah shares her experiences with Panama's healthcare, community, and culture, emphasizing the sense of safety and community she found there. This episode provides a comprehensive guide and personal insights into the life of an expatriate, especially for Black Americans considering a move abroad.

Theme song "Way Below Acceptable" by Grov "G.T." Tigue IV feat. Inohs Sivad is available on all of your favorite streaming platforms.
https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/grovgttigueiv/quincyphones--the-collaba-nation-notes-from-2020

  • (00:00) - Introduction to Sticky Note Conversations
  • (00:47) - Meet Deborah Porter: A Journey of Leaving the US
  • (03:01) - Life in Las Vegas Before the Move
  • (07:47) - The Decision to Leave the US
  • (09:55) - Choosing Panama: Research and Visits
  • (16:09) - Adjusting to Life in Panama
  • (21:05) - Cultural Differences and Work in Panama
  • (23:36) - Safety and Community in Panama
  • (28:21) - Understanding Poverty and Crime in Panama
  • (29:07) - Cost of Living and Housing in Panama
  • (31:38) - Living Conditions and Amenities
  • (33:59) - The Black Expat Community in Panama
  • (37:18) - Panamanian Politics and Corruption
  • (42:33) - Healthcare and Medical Costs in Panama
  • (45:11) - Reflections on Democracy and the American Dream
  • (49:43) - Future Plans and Advice for Expats
  • (51:19) - Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Creators and Guests

Producer
Erika Washington
SE
Editor
Simone Endress
WB
Composer
Wil Black

What is Sticky Note Conversations?

To keep my thoughts in order and my to-do lists remotely manageable I create arrays of sticky notes on my desk and wall. New idea? Stick note! Someone I want to meet with? Sticky Note! Need to remember to pay a parking ticket? Write it on a sticky note. Over the course of the last year, I have wanted to create a podcast that allowed me to dive deep into conversations with interesting people.. I wanted to have real conversations that were more than sound bites or regurgitated talking points about fluffy topics. My hope is that each episode feels like old friends catching up. Revealing great information but also humanity, struggle, victory, joy, grief, and possibly, a flicker of transcendence.

I hope you will enjoy these as much as I do creating them.
Join me here every Saturday as I pull a new sticky note off my desk.