In this episode, Daniel Laurean sits down with South African sommelier and filmmaker Michael Gabagas to unpack one of the least-spoken realities among migrant professionals — the Black Tax: the unspoken responsibility to financially support family back home.Michael shares the personal story that inspired his upcoming documentary, tracing how informal remittances have become a $700 billion global flow — a lifeline for some and a burden for others. From sending money five times in one month to realizing how emotional giving can be, he opens up about guilt, pride, and the thin line between love and dependency.Together, they explore:Why Black Tax exists and how it silently shapes lives across Africa, Asia, and Latin AmericaHow technology and instant transfers have changed the psychology of givingThe danger of creating dependency vs. inspiring growthThe cultural weight of “what will the neighbors say”What happens when emotional obligation meets financial realityHow migrants can set boundaries without losing their identityA raw, honest conversation about family, sacrifice, and what it truly means to “make it.”🎬 Follow Michael Gabagas and stay tuned for his upcoming documentary on the Black Tax phenomenon.💬 Key TakeawaysEmotional economics: most remittances are driven by guilt, love, and nostalgia — not spreadsheets.A double-edged sword: helping family can either empower them or breed dependency.Historical weight: colonialism, inequality, and corruption still echo through today’s migration patterns.Digital remittances = emotional triggers: instant requests mean instant giving.The wine-making metaphor: “the worse the soil, the better the wine” — over-supporting others can weaken their roots.Global lens: the “Black Tax” extends far beyond race — any migrant who supports loved ones abroad feels it.Self-care first: “You can’t give what you don’t have.” Setting boundaries is an act of love.My Socialshttps://www.instagram.com/daniel.laurean/https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-laurean-25b50085/https://www.daniellaurean.com#blacktax #remittances #africandiaspora #migrationstories #collectiveprojectpodcast #michaelgabagas #daniallaurean #familyobligations #cultureandmoney #emotionalfinance #selfcarefirst #documentaryfilm #modernwisdomstyle #mentalhealthmatters #diasporalife