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"Forced Out" - A story of Surviving Conflict

Published on: 29th October, 2023

In this episode I explore the emotional journey of Ivana Štrbac-Alfonso, who was forced to leave her home in Bosnia and Herzegovina during the conflict in the 1990s.

Ivana, who was only five to six years old at the time, lived in a village outside Zenica, a moderately large town in middle Bosnia.

The episode delves into the pain and struggle of leaving one’s country amidst conflict and seeking safety elsewhere.

Ivana eventually found a new home on Australia’s Gold Coast. The episode sheds light on her experiences as a refugee and her efforts to rebuild her life in a new country.

Ivana shares her passion for giving back to there community and how her experiences have shaped her into the person she is today.

This episode promises an insightful and emotional exploration of Ivana’s journey from being a young refugee to becoming a successful community builder in Australia.

You can find out more about, Ivana at:

https://anenglishmaninthebalkanspodcast.com/balkansis

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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.

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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.
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About your host

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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.