Armchair Expat - a Bargain Homes Abroad Production

How to Prepare for a Successful Move Abroad: A psychologist’s take on navigating fear, family dynamics, and the unknown with Dr. Colleen Crowley

Today’s guest brings both heartfelt wisdom and hard-won experience to one of life’s biggest transitions: moving abroad.
Dr. Colleen Crowley is a psychologist, expat, and global traveler who has spent the last 30 years living around the world—while also raising a family and supporting others through major life changes. Drawing on over two decades of clinical experience, she now helps individuals and families navigate the emotional and logistical complexities of starting a new life overseas.
In this episode, Dr. Crowley shares her personal journey from California to Spain with her children, her mother, and the family dog, as well as the mindset shifts that made it possible. We talk about the realities of expat life beyond the Instagram highlights: the identity changes, the emotional toll, and the surprising growth that can come from doing something bold and unfamiliar.
We cover:
What it takes to emotionally prepare for an international move
How to manage fear, uncertainty, and big emotions
Tips for moving as a family
The power of community, communication, and mindset
Why living abroad can be both transformative and healing
If you’ve been dreaming of life abroad but feel overwhelmed by the unknowns, this episode will leave you feeling grounded, informed, and inspired to take the next step.
CONNECT WITH DR COLLEEN CROWLEY
Website
Grab her workbook here
 
Armchair Expat is hosted by Shannon Acton, founder and Chief Bargain Hunter of Bargain Homes Abroad
Follow on Instagram  @bargainhomesabroad
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She Thrives Abroad: From Fear to Freedom Abroad with Lauren McDonnell

Lauren McDonnell of She Thrives Abroad shares her journey from the U.S. to the Netherlands, detailing the motivations behind her family's move abroad, the extensive research and planning involved, and the challenges of transitioning to a new culture. She discusses the importance of safety, quality of life, and education for her children, as well as the unique aspects of living in the Netherlands, including the housing market, cost of living, and community integration. Lauren also discusses her long-distance relationship with her wife and offers advice for others considering a similar path.
 
CONNECT WITH LAUREN
Instagram
Website
 
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
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If you enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe, and leave a review. It helps us reach more future expats and keep these stories coming.
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If you're interested in sponsoring or partnering with Armchair Expat, please reach out to Shannon at the following email: info AT bargain-homes DOT com

Early Retirement in Italy: Choosing Meaning Over Money in Midlife with Dan Kidson

In this episode of the Armchair Expat podcast, Dan shares his journey from a corporate career in the U.S. to pursuing his dream of living in Italy. He discusses his love for travel, the challenges of finding a home, navigating the visa process, and the cultural immersion he experienced in his new community.
Dan also highlights the bureaucratic hurdles he faced while purchasing a property and the ongoing renovation challenges, all while emphasizing the importance of community connection in his new life abroad.
In this conversation, Dan shares his experiences of living and renovating a property in Italy, emphasizing the importance of hiring an architect, understanding the true costs of property acquisition, and the unique lifestyle in a small Italian town. He discusses healthcare, the cost of living, tax incentives for residents, and the challenges of navigating bureaucracy. Dan also reflects on cultural adjustments and the joys of traveling across Europe, offering advice for those considering a move abroad.
 
TIMESTAMPS
00:00 From Corporate Life to Italian Dreams
03:05 The Journey to Finding Home
06:12 Cultural Immersion and Community Connection
09:00 Navigating the Visa Process
12:06 The Search for a Home in Italy
15:09 Overcoming Bureaucratic Hurdles
17:47 Renovation Challenges and Community Life
30:01 The Role of Architects in Italian Renovations
33:28 Cost Considerations in Property Acquisition
37:27 Living in a Small Italian Town
40:02 Healthcare in Italy: A Personal Experience
44:02 Climate and Daily Life in Basilicata
45:04 Cost of Living Comparison: Italy vs. the US
47:22 Tax Incentives for Residents in Southern Italy
49:00 Navigating Bureaucracy: Driving and Residency
51:03 Cultural Adjustments and Lifestyle Changes
55:03 Traveling Across Europe from Italy
56:37 Advice for Those Considering Moving Abroad
CONNECT WITH DAN
Instagram
***
This episode is brought to you by International Living—trusted since 1979 to help people like you live better, spend less, and move smartly overseas. Their guidance has helped thousands find their perfect corner of the world—from coastal Portugal to mountain villages in Mexico.
Right now, they’re offering listeners a special freebie: when you sign up for their daily postcard e-letter, you’ll get a sneak peek in their brand-new book European Living: The Complete Manual for Americans Over 55
Check out your free chapter: The Loophole That Allows You to Live in Europe 360 Days a Year Without a Visa
Sign up here to grab your free chapter: https://intliving.com/eu360 
Big thanks to International Living for supporting the show—and for inspiring so many of us to think beyond borders!
***
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 enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe, and leave a review. It helps us reach more future expats and keep these stories coming.
 
ENTER THE REVIEW CONTEST: https://www.bargainhomesabroad.co/reviews
 
If you're interested in sponsoring or partnering with Armchair Expat, please reach out to Shannon at the following email: info AT bargain-homes DOT com

Renovating Life: An American Family’s Move to Portugal

In this episode of the Armchair Expat podcast, Shannon interviews Allison, an American expat living in Portugal. They discuss Allison's journey from New York to Portugal, the challenges of moving abroad with children, the process of finding a suitable school, and building a community in a new country. Allison shares her experiences with language learning, the pursuit of citizenship, and the cultural differences she has encountered. The conversation highlights the joys and challenges of expat life, particularly for families, and offers valuable insights for those considering a similar move. In this conversation, Allison shares her experiences and insights about moving to Portugal, including navigating healthcare, creating resources for newcomers, and the importance of personal growth. She discusses her projects aimed at helping others settle in Portugal, the challenges of finding housing, and the emotional journey of relocating abroad. The conversation emphasizes the value of community, reliable resources, and the transformative power of embracing change.
 
TIMESTAMPS
00:00 Introduction to Allison's Journey
01:11 The Decision to Move Abroad
03:09 Researching the Move to Portugal
05:01 Planning the Move and Choosing a Location
08:29 Moving with Children: Challenges and Advice
11:45 Choosing the Right School for Kids
13:38 Building Community in a New Country
16:47 Personal Challenges of Living Abroad
19:08 Pursuing Citizenship in Portugal
21:03 Navigating American Identity Abroad
22:41 Daily Life in Portugal: A New Routine
27:25 Navigating Trust in Healthcare and Services
28:41 Creating Resources for Moving to Portugal
32:10 Connecting People with Reliable Resources
33:29 Hands-On Support for New Arrivals
35:02 Understanding Visa Requirements and Housing
37:22 Tips for Finding a Place to Live
42:10 Personal Growth and Renovating Life
50:11 Embracing Change and Moving Abroad
 
CONNECT WITH ALLISON
Instagram
Website
 
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 enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe, and leave a review. It helps us reach more future expats and keep these stories coming.
ENTER THE REVIEW CONTEST
If you're interested in sponsoring or partnering with Armchair Expat, please reach out to Shannon at the following email: info AT bargain-homes DOT com

Move Overseas Now: Real Talk on Visas, Mindset & Building a Life Abroad with Shawna Lum

In this episode of the Armchair Expat podcast, Shawna shares her journey from growing up in Los Angeles to living in Spain and helping others move abroad. She discusses her experiences in the corporate world, her love for the European lifestyle, and the creation of her business, Move Overseas Now, which assists Americans in relocating to Europe. Shawna provides valuable insights into visa options, healthcare in Europe, and practical tips for those considering a move abroad. She emphasizes the importance of community and mindset in pursuing one's dreams.
 
🚨 Don’t Miss Shawna’s Free Abroad in a Year MasterclassHappening June 7th, this live session walks you through the exact steps to start planning your move to Europe. Sign up here for free
 
TIMESTAMPS
00:00 Introduction and Background
03:50 The Journey to Spain and Corporate Life
07:11 Transitioning to Entrepreneurship
09:57 Creating Move Overseas Now
13:11 Advice for Aspiring Expats
15:57 Visa Options for Moving to Europe
18:55 Exploring Other Countries and Their Visa Options
28:23 Exploring Residency Options in Latin America
33:08 Navigating Residency in France
38:30 Understanding Digital Nomad Visas in Europe
40:27 Healthcare Insights for Expats
47:02 Resources for Moving Abroad
49:18 Mindset Shifts for Relocation
 
CONNECT WITH SHAWNA
Instagram
 
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 enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe, and leave a review. It helps us reach more future expats and keep these stories coming.
 
ENTER THE REVIEW CONTEST
 
If you're interested in sponsoring or partnering with Armchair Expat, please reach out to Shannon at the following email: info AT bargain-homes DOT com

Reinventing Life and Work in France with Andrew Guck

In this episode, guest Andrew Guck shares his remarkable journey from upstate New York to building a life in southern France, where he’s lived for over a decade. What began with a casual interest in French class—and a long-lost crush—eventually led to a love story, a spontaneous elopement, and a bold move abroad.
Andrew opens up about the cultural differences he encountered, especially the French approach to communication, debate, and saying “non.” He reflects on how these challenges reshaped his worldview and taught him to slow down, set boundaries, and trust his intuition.
We talk about the foods he still misses from America, what it really takes to start over in a new country, and how he went from odd jobs to a successful career in real estate. Along the way, Andrew offers candid, heartfelt advice for anyone dreaming of making a big leap—emphasizing the power of passion, flexibility, and following the signs (even when they don’t make sense at first).
Whether you're curious about expat life, craving a career pivot, or just love a good origin story—this conversation will inspire you to trust your gut and chase the life that’s calling.
 
TIMESTAMPS
00:00 Introduction and Background
11:32 Journey to France and Love Story
18:06 Life in France: Reality vs. Expectations
28:48 Cultural Differences and Adaptation
33:35 Navigating No: Understanding Rejection and Opportunity
34:52 Cultural Differences: The Pace of Life in France vs. America
36:05 Missing Home: Food and Traditions from America
38:35 Career Challenges: Finding Work as a Foreigner in France
44:22 The Evolution of Remote Work: A Personal Journey
46:03 Embracing Change: From Yoga to Real Estate
57:51 Advice for Expats: Following Your Heart in New Adventures
 
CONNECT WITH ANDREW
YouTube
Facebook
******
This episode is brought to you by International Living—trusted since 1979 to help people like you live better, spend less, and move smartly overseas. Their guidance has helped thousands find their perfect corner of the world—from coastal Portugal to mountain villages in Mexico.
Right now, they’re offering listeners a special freebie: when you sign up for their daily postcard e-letter, you’ll get a sneak peek in their brand-new book European Living: The Complete Manual for Americans Over 55— check out your free chapter: The Loophole That Allows You to Live in Europe 360 Days a Year Without a Visa
Sign up here to grab your free chapter: https://intliving.com/eulive
Big thanks to International Living for supporting the show—and for inspiring so many of us to think beyond borders!
******
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 enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe, and leave a review. It helps us reach more future expats and keep these stories coming.
 
ENTER THE REVIEW CONTEST: https://www.bargainhomesabroad.co/reviews
 
If you're interested in sponsoring or partnering with Armchair Expat, please reach out to Shannon at the following email: info AT bargain-homes DOT com

How NOT to Retire Abroad: One Couple’s Story of Moving to Portugal

In this episode, I'm joined by Matt and Dawn — better known as The Unretirees — who traded their big-city grind for a brand-new life on Portugal’s Silver Coast. We talk about how they sold almost everything they owned, why the pandemic was a turning point, and what made Portugal the obvious choice (spoiler: fast-track citizenship and serious beach vibes helped).
We get into the real talk about integration challenges, why expat groups are a double-edged sword, and what you must know about taxes and healthcare before considering moving abroad. Plus, Matt and Dawn share how they’re helping other midlife adventurers turn career expertise into online income — and why starting small could be your ticket to freedom.
Takeaways:
They downsized their entire life to chase a long-held dream of living abroad.
Portugal stood out for its fast-track citizenship, lower cost of living, and overall safety.
Language barriers and cultural differences are real — but kindness and persistence make all the difference.
Expat groups can offer support but aren't a substitute for truly integrating.
Turning midlife expertise into online income is possible — even if you don't feel like an "expert."
Moving abroad is about running toward the life you want, not away from the one you had.
Connect with Dawn & Matt
YouTube Channel
Moving to Portugal Course (Affiliate link)
 
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
Join for VIP Access
If you enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe, and leave a review. It helps us reach more future expats and keep these stories coming.
ENTER THE REVIEW CONTEST 
If you're interested in sponsoring or partnering with Armchair Expat, please reach out to Shannon at the following email: info AT bargain-homes DOT com

Doing Italy: Life Lessons from a Female Founder with Thea Duncan

In this episode of the Armchair Expat podcast, Shannon chats with Thea Duncan, the founder of Doing Italy. The conversation explores Thea's journey to Italy, her love for the culture, and how she helps others navigate the process of moving to Italy. Thea shares her experiences with intuition, the impact of COVID-19 on her career, and practical advice for those looking to relocate to Italy, including visa options and common mistakes to avoid. The discussion also highlights the importance of building community and integrating into Italian society. In this conversation, Thea shares her experiences of living in Italy, discussing cultural identity, parenting, and the nuances of the Italian real estate market. She reflects on her journey as a Black woman in Italy, the joys and challenges of raising a child in a different culture, and the complexities of buying property as an expatriate. Thea emphasizes the importance of curiosity, community, and taking small steps towards change, encouraging listeners to embrace their fears and pursue their dreams of living abroad.
Takeaways
Intuition is a powerful compass.Thea followed inner nudges—not a master plan—and built a life in Italy because of it.
You do need a visa to move to Italy.From student to digital nomad, understanding your options is essential.
Speaking Italian matters.Language skills aren’t just helpful—they’re often necessary for work and connection.
The job market isn’t like the U.S.Lower salaries, but higher stability—know what you’re walking into.
Buying property won’t get you residency.Italy isn’t a “buy to stay” country. Don’t fall for the myth.
Community is everything.From expat groups to local cafés, showing up with curiosity opens doors.
Raising kids in Italy is beautifully communal.From pregnancy perks to pesto made by Nona—Italy moms differently.
Fear fades when you take the next right step.Thea’s advice? Don’t wait for certainty. Start with action.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Thea's Journey
01:19 Discovering Italy: A Love Story
06:03 Intuition and Life Decisions
11:44 Starting 'Doing Italy' During COVID
15:08 Navigating the Path to Italy
16:13 Visa Options for Moving to Italy
23:42 Common Mistakes When Moving to Italy
29:40 Building Community in Italy
34:39 Cultural Curiosity and Identity in Italy
37:15 Raising a Child in Italy: A Personal Journey
44:01 Navigating the Italian Real Estate Market
56:28 Embracing Change: Moving to Italy and Overcoming Fear
 
Connect with Thea
Website: https://www.doingitaly.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doingitaly/
 
Books Referenced:
Sacred Contracts: Awakening Your Divine Potential by Caroline Myss
The 4-Hour Workweek by Tim Ferriss
 
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 enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe, and leave a review. It helps us reach more future expats and keep these stories coming.
ENTER REVIEW CONTEST: https://www.bargainhomesabroad.co/reviews
 
If you're interested in sponsoring or partnering with Armchair Expat, please reach out to Shannon at the following email: info AT bargain-homes DOT com

How to Move Abroad (Without Forcing It): The Power of Intuition & Divine Timing with Nicolle

What if your next big move—whether it’s across the world or deep within—wasn’t about figuring it out, but about feeling it through?
In this episode, Shannon sits down with Nicolle Merrilyne, a Certified Intuitive Energy Healer, Medium, and Meditation Teacher who recently left California to follow her intuition—and her spirit guides—all the way to Spain.
Together, they explore how grounding, energy healing, and intuitive guidance can shape a life abroad and support personal growth along the way. Nicolle shares her own spiritual awakening, her unexpected path into intuitive healing during the pandemic, and what it really felt like to move abroad with no backup plan—just trust.
You’ll hear how to:
Use meditation to sharpen your intuition
Protect your energy while adjusting to expat life
Recognize when a past life might be influencing your present
Build community with intention, wherever you are
This one is part spiritual toolkit, part expat story, and full of insights for anyone feeling that soul-nudge to leap—whether it’s across oceans or into the unknown.
TimeStamps:
00:00 – Grounding for Clarity
04:59 – Nicolle's Journey to Intuition
09:57 – The Leap to Spain
14:57 – Navigating New Beginnings
19:51 – Understanding Intuition
24:58 – Meditation and Intuition Development
29:52 – Energy Healing Explained
34:55 – Protecting Your Energy
35:09 – Communicating with Spirit Guides
39:32 – Building a Spiritual Community
43:33 – Exploring Past Lives and Ancestral Connections
48:00 – Navigating Community in New Places
52:18 – Taking the Leap to Move Abroad
57:42 – Trusting Your Intuition in Big Decisions
Connect with Nicolle
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicollemerrilyne/
Rise Membership:  https://risebynicollemerrilyne.my.canva.site/join-rise
 
EPISODE SPONSOR
This episode is brought to you by International Living — trusted since 1979 to help people like you live better, spend less, and move smartly overseas. Big thanks to International Living for supporting Armchair Expat, and for inspiring so many of us to think beyond borders!
 
ABOUT US
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 enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe, and leave a review. It helps us reach more future expats and keep these stories coming.
 
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Call for Sponsors
If you're interested in partnering with Armchair Expat, please reach out to Shannon at the following email: info AT bargain-homes DOT com

Astrocartography 101: Finding the Best Place to Live, Love & Thrive with Helena Woods

What if your birth chart could tell you where in the world you're meant to thrive?
In this episode of Armchair Expat, Shannon chats with world traveling professional relocation astrology specialist Helena Woods about the weird, sometimes woo-woo, and yet wildly accurate world of astrocartography— otherwise known as the “astrology of place”.
 
They dive into why where you are matters, and how planetary lines can influence everything from career clarity to finding “the one.”
 
Helena shares how trusting her gut (and the stars) led her to a life-changing move abroad—and how you can use your unique astro-map to make bold, aligned decisions.
 
From relocation timing tips to the surprising magic of remote activation, this convo covers what most people get wrong about astrology, what not to do on your Mars line, and how moving abroad can crack you wide open in all the right ways.
 
Whether you're craving a fresh start, seeking your soul city, or just tired of forcing it where you are—this episode will have you rethinking everything you thought you knew about moving.
 
Takeaways
Astro cartography reveals the energy and stories of different locations.
Trusting your intuition is key to personal growth.
Jupiter and Venus lines are the most beneficial for relocation.
Uranus lines can bring chaos and instability.
Timing is crucial when planning travel or relocation.
Your birth chart influences your experiences in different places.
Small daily habits can strengthen your intuition.
Astro cartography can help find love and career opportunities.
You can still benefit from astro cartography even if you live far from a line.
Listening to your inner voice can lead to fulfilling life choices. Solar Fire is recommended for astro photography software.
Venus and Jupiter descendant lines are ideal for partnerships.
Sun Ascendant lines provide clarity on purpose.
IC lines are important for home and family considerations.
Remote activation allows energy connection from a distance.
Hiring decisions should consider astro compatibility.
Pluto lines can have positive experiences contrary to popular belief.
Family dynamics should be assessed through astro mapping.
Travel experiences can reveal personal growth and challenges.
Eclipse season brings significant global shifts and personal reflections.
Connect with Helena
Instagram
Website: https://helenawoods.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@helenawoods
 
Resource Links
Free Astrocartography Cheat Sheet: https://helenawoods.com/cheatsheet
GTFO Workshop: https://helenawoods.com/gtfo
Other Courses: helenawoods.com/courses
Book a Reading with Helena: https://helenawoods.com/readings
Reader Directory: helenawoods.com/directory
 
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 free 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