full

Embracing Diversity: From Micronesia to Bosnia with Sheila Savanović

Published on: 23rd November, 2023

Today, I have a truly inspiring guest, Sheila Savanović, a resilient lady from Micronesia who has made an extraordinary journey from the eastern Pacific to Southeastern Europe.

Sheila shares her fascinating story of meeting her husband in China, settling in Banja Luka, and the cultural adjustments she had to make along the way.

From learning the local language ,to living in this misunderstood country, and experiencing some tough moments during her motherhood, Sheila’s story is a testament to her adaptability and strength.

So, sit back, relax, and get ready for an enlightening conversation that celebrates cultural diversity and personal strength.

00:00 Introduction and Sheila's Origin

00:23 Journey from Micronesia to Southeast Europe

00:52 Understanding Micronesian Culture and Languages

01:47 Studying in China and Meeting Her Husband

04:03 Moving to Europe and Adjusting to New Culture

04:55 Learning the Local Language

06:24 Raising Children in a Multicultural Environment

10:53 Dealing with Personal Tragedy

13:50 Coping Mechanisms and Support from Friends

15:37 Micronesian Similarities and Personal Background

15:49 How Sheila Started Working at the Restaurant

17:28 The Unique Design and Menu of the Restaurant

19:52 Introducing New Food and Dietary Options

20:23 The Popularity and Impact of the Restaurant

22:30 Sheila's Unexpected Journey to a Celebrity Cookery Show

23:48 Sheila's Experience and Recognition Post Television Show

26:28 Sheila's Cultural Connection to Micronesia

29:36 Sheila's Future Plans and Dreams

Please also do share this episode and maybe leave a 5 start review on the podcast platform you listened to this on.

Stay tuned for more exciting stories and adventures from the Englishman in the Balkans podcast!

Thank you for being a part of our podcasting community, and we look forward to bringing you more exciting content in the future.

You can support my work, by maybe leaving a Tip or by becoming a member of our podcast family at: https://anenglishmaninthebalkanspodcast.com/support

Get full access to 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 An Englishman in the Balkans Blog 🇧🇦 at https://www.anenglishmaninthebalkans.com/


This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.anenglishmaninthebalkans.com/subscribe

Mentioned in this episode:

Tamara Intro Tip



This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.coffeeandrakija.com/subscribe

Next Episode All Episodes Previous Episode

☕ Support the Podcast

If you enjoy listening to An Englishman in the Balkans and would like to support what I do, you can now leave a small tip.

Your support helps me keep the podcast independent, ad-free, and full of stories from this fascinating corner of Europe. Whether it’s a one-time coffee or a few euros for the mic, every gesture is truly appreciated — and it keeps me fuelled for the next episode!

Thank you for being part of the journey.
☕ Support the Podcast
A
We haven’t had any Tips yet :( Maybe you could be the first!

Listen for free

Show artwork for An Englishman in the Balkans

About the Podcast

An Englishman in the Balkans
An Englishman in the Balkans is a podcast about life, culture, and slow living in Bosnia and Herzegovina, seen through the eyes of a British expat who’s made the Balkans home for over two decades.

Hosted by broadcaster and storyteller David Bailey, each episode explores everyday moments, local traditions, conversations with fascinating people, and reflections on what it means to live abroad.

Whether you’re curious about life after 50, considering a different pace of life, or simply fascinated by the hidden corners of Europe, this podcast offers a gentle, engaging escape.

🎧 New episodes weekly from the heart of the Western Balkans.

Perfect for listeners who love expat stories, slow travel, off-the-beaten-path adventures, and authentic cultural insights.
Support This Show

About your host

Profile picture for David Bailey

David Bailey

David Bailey is a veteran broadcaster and podcast producer with over three decades of experience behind the mic. From hosting and producing radio shows to pioneering independent podcasting in the Western Balkans, David’s voice has long been a trusted guide for curious listeners.

Now based in Bosnia and Herzegovina, he blends his storytelling roots with modern audio formats, producing "An Englishman in the Balkans", "Postcards from Bosnia" and "Postcards in Sounds" podcasts, that explore culture, life, and slow living in a country he’s called home for over 20 years.

David brings warmth, clarity, and deep production knowledge to every episode, whether recording in his studio or capturing soundscapes in a village in rural Bosnia.