Netherlands: Community, Cycling and Contrasts to America

We both went to the Netherlands in the last few weeks and wanted to do a deep dive into the contrasts between the Dutch and American cultures and how we think it impacts our overall health and well-being. A really cool part of traveling is to take inspiration from a place so this episode is not meant to hate on the United States, it’s more about how we are inspired by elements of the Dutch lifestyle and how we can incorporate more of those practices, routines and systems into our lives!We are also not unique in taking inspiration from the Dutch. The Netherlands' innovative and progressive approach to various societal issues has made it a source of inspiration for countries seeking solutions to common challenges. Its lessons in sustainability, social inclusivity, and urban planning continue to shape global conversations and influence policy decisions in many parts of the world.The Netherlands' cycling culture is renowned worldwide. Amsterdam, in particular, is often cited as one of the most bike-friendly cities globally. Socially they are open-minded and tolerant. They’re decades ahead of other first-world countries in terms of urban planning and infrastructure. The Netherlands also has a robust social welfare system that includes universal healthcare, unemployment benefits, and other social services. This safety net helps reduce the impact of income inequality.Americans have a strong entrepreneurial spirit, with many individuals pursuing their own businesses and startups. The "American Dream" often revolves around the idea of personal success, achievements and financial independence. The concept of self-reliance is deeply ingrained in American culture. Personal privacy is highly valued, and individuals often have a strong desire to protect their personal information and space. Think - blinds closed, privacy fences, gated communities, etc. The United States has one of the highest income inequality levels among developed countries. The wealth gap between the rich and the poor has been widening for decades.We unpack all of this and more in today’s episode. SPONSORS + DISCOUNTS: This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/ALREADYFRIENDS and get on your way to being your best self.HelloFresh: Go to HelloFresh.com/50ALREADYFRIENDS and use code 50alreadyfriends for 50% off plus 15% off the next 2 months! HelloFresh is America’s #1 meal kit!This episode is sponsored by Proactiv and their newest skincare innovation, Proactiv Clean. Head to Proactiv.com and use promo code ALREADYFRIENDS to get 20% off!LINKS: Untuckit - Ceara’s VideoAllison’s Netherlands PDF - New Wave Travel GuidesSt Louis Pumpkin Patch - Eckhert’s MillstadtOmaha Pumpkin Patch - Vala’sHuman Design Episode #134 HD Chart Reading with Rebekah - Code ‘alreadyfriends’ for $20 offSOCIAL LINKS:Already Friends Socials: Instagram, TikTokAllison's Socials: Instagram, TikTokCeara's Socials: Instagram, TikTokAlready Friends Patreon: $5.55 a Month for Bonus EpisodesLet's be friends - join the Already Friends FB Group!If you enjoyed this episode, we would really really appreciate it if you left a rating and review on Apple Podcast / Spotify or share the show with a loved one. This helps us grow the show so that we can keep doing what we are doing! Thank you so much for the support!To sponsor our show, email hello@alreadyfriendspodcast.com.Our Sponsors:* Check out Gaia Provides and use my code ALREADYFRIENDS for a great deal: www.gaiaprovides.com* Check out Happy Mammoth and use my code ALREADYFRIENDS for a great deal: happymammoth.com* Check out Shopify and use my code alreadyfriends for a great deal: www.shopify.com* Check out Shopify and use my code alreadyfriends for a great deal: www.shopify.com* Get 15% off on your entire first order at happymammoth.com just use the code ALREADYFRIENDS at checkout.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy