When we talk about Third Culture Kids (TCKs), we often hear perspectives from educators, researchers, and parents—but it’s not every day we get to hear from a father who was a TCK himself. That’s why I’m especially excited about this conversation with Chris Moyer. Having grown up between the U.S., France, and Germany, Chris understands firsthand the challenges and joys of a globally mobile childhood. Now, as a parent raising his own children across cultures, he brings a unique perspective on identity, belonging, and resilience. Let’s dive in!
Tell us a little about yourself.
I often say my life has been a series of transitions, and that’s not an exaggeration. I moved to France at the age of five, then back to the U.S. from ages 10-12, back to France from 12-15, Germany from 15-16, the U.S. again from 16-17, back to Germany at 17, then back to the U.S. from 18-37. I’ve been in France ever since. That kind of movement shapes you in ways that are hard to put into words—it builds resilience, adaptability, and a deep appreciation for different ways of life.
Professionally, I earned a Master’s in Counseling and have been working with expat families since 2018, helping them transition and thrive in their new homes. But honestly, my professional journey grew organically out of my personal experiences. I know firsthand the joys and struggles of international life, and I’m passionate about making those transitions smoother for others.
What have been the most rewarding aspects of living abroad, and what challenges have you faced?
The biggest reward? Hands down, the relationships. Living across cultures has given me a unique ability to connect with people from all walks of life. It’s also made me natively bilingual in French and English, which isn’t just a practical skill—it’s a bridge to deeper understanding. Plus, growing up between cultures has taught me how to observe, adapt, and empathize in ways I wouldn’t have if I had stayed in one place my whole life.
But, of course, there are challenges too. A life of constant movement means a life of goodbyes. Losses, transitions, identity struggles—all of these come with the territory. I wrote about this in one of my blog posts, Neither Here Nor There – I Don’t Belong Anywhere (you can check it out here: link). It’s not always easy to define where “home” is, but I’ve come to embrace the idea that home is more about people and connection than a single place.
What inspired you to focus on expat care and TCKs? How did your personal experience shape your career path?
Growing up across multiple cultures, I experienced firsthand the joys and struggles of international life. I know what it’s like to feel both at home everywhere and nowhere at the same time. That’s why I’m passionate about supporting expat families and Third Culture Kids (TCKs)—helping them navigate transitions, build a sense of belonging, and thrive in their unique journeys. My work is not just about logistics; it’s about helping families create a life where they don’t just survive, but truly feel at home—wherever they are.
Having endorsed books and written about TCKs, what are some emerging trends or critical issues you see in this field today?
There’s definitely an increasing awareness of TCK needs, which is encouraging. More parents and schools are recognizing the unique challenges these kids face and are looking for ways to support them.
But one area that still needs more attention is transition support. TCKs don’t just go through one big move—they experience multiple transitions throughout their lives, whether it’s changing countries, schools, languages, or even friend groups. It’s not just about helping them adapt to a new place; it’s about equipping them with the skills and emotional support to manage the constant cycle of change. That’s where the real work is needed.
What advice would you give to parents raising TCKs to help them navigate identity and belonging?
The biggest piece of advice I’d give is to strike a balance between understanding general TCK experiences and recognizing your child’s individual needs. Yes, there are common themes—grappling with identity, dealing with loss, navigating different cultural expectations—but every child experiences these things in their own way.
Create a home environment where open conversations about identity and belonging are the norm. Celebrate your child’s unique cultural mix. Give them the language to describe their experience, and provide spaces where they can process their emotions. And most importantly, be present. Sometimes the best thing you can do is simply acknowledge what they’re going through and let them know they’re not alone.
How would you continue Coaching because…?
I continue coaching because I believe in the power of shared experiences and the impact of having someone walk alongside you through transition. Every conversation I have reinforces that our differences are our strengths, and I love helping people reframe challenges as opportunities. Coaching isn’t just something I do—it’s a way of being present for others in the same way I wish I had someone present for me during my own transitions.
Fun fact: What’s one cultural tradition or food you’ve discovered abroad that has become a personal favorite?
Raclette. Hands down. It’s a dish where you melt cheese and pour it over a baked potato, covering it with ham—simple, but absolutely amazing. While it’s not traditionally a Christmas meal in France, it has become my family’s Christmas tradition, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Also, I’m a huge sports fan. I love both my passport country’s (USA) and my heart country’s (France) sports cultures. I jokingly call myself “Phrench”—a mix of my love for Philadelphia sports teams (go Eagles, Phillies, Sixers, Flyers!) and my passion for French soccer.
Where can people connect with you?
You can connect with me on LinkedIn: Chris Moyer LinkedIn.
What else would you like to share?
If there’s one thing I’ve learned from my life abroad, it’s that identity isn’t about picking one culture over another—it’s about embracing the richness of all the places, people, and experiences that shape you. Whether you’re an expat, a TCK, a parent raising global kids, or someone just curious about international life, I hope you know that your story matters.
Wherever you are in your journey, I’d love to connect and support you. After all, life abroad is a shared adventure, and we’re all in it together.
LIFE ABROAD IS A SHARED ADVENTURE, AND WE´ER ALL IN IT TOGETHER.
- Chris Moyer -
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