In this episode of Armchair Expat, I sit down with freelance writer and editor Nicole “Ziza” Bauer, who shares her journey of moving to Italy and building a new life abroad.

Ziza talks about the lifelong dream that led her to Italy, her experience navigating the dual citizenship process, and how she used manifestation, intuition, and practical planning to make her move happen. We dig into the logistics of moving abroad as well as the mindset shifts, identity changes, and moments of trust that unfold along the way.

Whether you're looking to move to Italy, become a freelancer abroad, or simply curious about how to live and work in Italy, this conversation covers it all.

Ziza’s story is both inspiring and grounding—a reminder that moving to Europe isn’t always quick or easy, but it is possible with clarity, persistence, and trust in your own timeline.

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The Expanded Podcast

Armchair Expat is hosted by Shannon Acton, founder and Chief Bargain Hunter of Bargain Homes Abroad

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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.

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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
• 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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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

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

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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