Welcome to Global Student Voices, hosted by Scott R. Martin!

In this powerful episode, we are joined by Michéle Phoenix—renowned TCK advocate, author, and expert on the Third Culture Kid (TCK) and Missionary Kid (MK) experience.

This conversation serves as a vital companion to Michele’s acclaimed book, Pieces of Purple: The Greatness, Grit, and Grace of Growing Up MK. Host Scott R. Martin, also known as Coach Martin, calls the book a “spectacular resource,” one he has personally shared with international parents—including during a recent trip to Kenya.

Endorsed by TCK thought leader Ruth Van Reken (a previous guest on GSV), Pieces of Purple is available globally via Amazon (including international sites like amazon.fr and amazon.nl) and as an ebook.

Michéle shares her own background as a TCK and MK—born in France, holding three passports, and having spent two decades teaching at Black Forest Academy in Germany. She brings to life the complexity of the TCK identity through her famous “purple Play-Doh” analogy: unlike monocultural children (red or blue), TCKs blend diverse cultural influences into a rich, complex, and often confusing shade of purple.

Key insights from this episode include:

• • The often hidden grief and trauma carried by TCKs—and how it manifests emotionally
  • The intense, fast-forming relationships typical of globally mobile youth.
• • A breakdown of the six types of belonging that TCKs seek throughout their lives.
• • The unique “superpowers” of TCKs—including emotional intelligence, adaptability, and their innate ability to build bridges across cultures.
    

  Michéle calls on international schools to recognize and nurture these strengths, especially as they are increasingly valued in fields like diplomacy and global business.

As someone who has worked extensively with international students, Scott R. Martin underscores the depth and relevance of Michéle’s insights. This episode is part of a broader effort to elevate global student voices and to provide meaningful resources for students, parents, and educators navigating cross-cultural lives.

Connect with Michéle Phoenix:

• Website: michelephoenix.com

• Facebook: facebook.com/shellphoenix

• Podcast: A Pondering Purple (audio versions of her articles) https://open.spotify.com/show/0zqqxnBUbuTif04j8Z1lHu?si=da2d6b40fc6b45a6

• Book: Pieces of Purple – available on Amazon and global Amazon platforms https://a.co/d/2GRLJY3
  

Connect with Global Student Voices and the Global Student Solutions family:

Are you part of an international school community? Whether you’re a student with a story to tell, a parent seeking guidance, or a school leader looking to strengthen your support systems—Global Student Voices is here for you. Subscribe, share, and connect with us to become part of a growing global network committed to elevating student voices worldwide.

School leaders are invited to explore GSS Consulting Services and join the Global Education Network, a powerful community designed to support international schools through resources, collaboration, and leadership development. For students and parents, our My College Coach services offer personalized guidance to help you navigate global university admissions with clarity and confidence.

Let’s build something remarkable—together.