Armchair Expat

Wanna Move Abroad? Your Exit Strategy Starts Here with Jen Barnett

Welcome to the very first episode of Armchair Expat. In this kickoff conversation, host Shannon Acton chats with Jen Barnett about her journey from Alabama to Mérida, Mexico—and how she turned her relocation experience into a powerful resource for others through her platform, Expatsi.
Jen opens up about the political motivations behind her move, the surprises and challenges of settling into a new country, and the reality of building a business abroad. From housing headaches to hugs at Costco, this episode is packed with both inspiration and practical insight for anyone considering life beyond U.S. borders.
What You’ll Learn:
Why the decision to move abroad often starts with values and lifestyle
What it takes to relocate
The surprising struggles (and wins) of finding housing abroad
How Expatsi is helping people find & explore their best-fit countries
The stages of moving abroad—and why the process doesn’t have to be overwhelming
Resources & Links:
Wondering where should you move? Take the Expatsi test: https://www.expatsi.com
Learn more about Move Abroad Con taking place in May 2025 in San Antonio, TX. And save 10% off convention tickets with code ARMCHAIR
Join the Expatsi Membership - Apply discount code ARMCHAIR to save 35% off the first month of membership)
Connect with Jen Barnett:
Website: https://expatsi.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/expatsi
Armchair Expat is hosted by Shannon Acton, Founder and Chief Bargain Hunter of Bargain Homes Abroad
Follow on Instagram  @bargainhomesabroad
Visit our Website: https://www.bargainhomesabroad.co
Subscribe to our E-Mail Digest: https://www.bargainhomesabroad.co/subscribe
Join for VIP Access: https://www.bargainhomesabroad.co/membership
If you're interested in sponsoring or partnering with Armchair Expat, please reach out to Shannon at the following email: info@bargain-homes.com
Enjoy this episode? Please like, subscribe, and leave a review—it helps us reach more future expats and keep these stories coming your way.
Until next time… remember: the adventure starts right from your armchair.

Armchair Expat Promo

What really happens when you leave everything familiar behind and start over in a new country?
Armchair Expat is a podcast about moving abroad, living overseas, and building a life you love on your own terms. Hosted by Shannon Acton of @BargainHomesAbroad, each episode features real stories from people who have relocated internationally—whether for work, retirement, lifestyle, or love.
Guests include everyday expats, digital nomads, and entrepreneurs who share honest insights, practical advice, and personal reflections on what it really takes to move abroad and thrive. But this show isn’t just about logistics—it’s about the inner journey, too. From identity shifts and culture shock to healing, intuition, and transformation, Armchair Expat explores how living abroad can change you in ways you never expected.
If you’re dreaming of moving to another country or curious about expat life, this podcast will inspire, inform, and guide your journey—no passport required.