Armchair Expat - a Bargain Homes Abroad Production – Détails, épisodes et analyse

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.

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.

In this episode, Cepee shares how a restless career path and a big leap abroad led her to create She Hit Refresh—a thriving community for women over 30 ready to reinvent their lives overseas. We dive into the highs and lows of her expat story, what it really takes to start over in a new country, and why community is the secret ingredient to a successful transition. Plus, Cepee shares inspiring refresh stories from women in her network and practical advice for anyone dreaming of a bold new chapter abroad.

Key Takeaways

• Cepee's background as a child of immigrants shaped her desire for freedom.
• Her early career was marked by job hopping and a quest for meaningful work.
• The importance of community in the process of moving abroad.
• Remote work opportunities have changed the landscape for expats.
• Scouting trips are essential for making informed decisions about moving.
• Albania is an emerging destination for Americans looking to move abroad.
• Women over 30 often feel it's too late to make a big life change.
• Success stories from the She Hit Refresh community inspire others to take the leap.

If you enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe, and leave a review. It helps us reach more future expats and keep these stories coming. 

Where to Find Cepee:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shehitrefresh

Move Abroad Masterclass affiliate link:

https://shehitrefresh.kartra.com/affiliates/411713

Refresher’s Lounge Waitlist: https://www.shehitrefreshacademy.com/loungewaitlist

She Hit Refresh Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/shehitrefresh

She Hit Refresh Podcast: https://shehitrefresh.com/category/podcast/

She Hit Refresh YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SheHitRefresh

Resources/Links

Home Exchange (affiliate): https://spn.so/digk6ev9

Trusted Housesitters affiliate link (Use our code BHA25 for 25% off membership): trustedhousesitters.pxf.io/POzVMY

Host a Sister Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/hostasister

Sabbatical Homes: https://www.sabbaticalhomes.com

About the Podcast

Armchair Expat is hosted by Shannon Acton, founder and Chief Bargain Huntress 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

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

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.

PSST! You Could Win a $100 (USD) Amazon Gift Card 

​Love The Armchair Expat podcast? Tell the world—and you could win big!

We’re on a mission to reach 100 reviews on both Apple Podcasts and Spotify. To celebrate, we’re giving away a $100 (USD) Amazon gift card to one lucky listener when we hit the milestone.

How to enter:

1. Leave a review on Apple Podcasts &/or Spotify.

2. Take a Screenshot of your review(s)

3. Fill out this quick form so we know how to reach you.

Once we hit 100 reviews on both platforms, we’ll draw one winner to receive a $100 (USD) Amazon gift card.

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

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

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

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

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

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 Masterclass Happening 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