In this episode of Away We Go We Go, Sophie and Jordan sit down with Maddie and Shelby to unpack what it really looks like to move abroad—not just the highlight reel, but the growth, discomfort, and unexpected joy that come with it. From having limited travel experience to packing up their entire lives and relocating to London, Maddie and Shelby share how one job opportunity turned into a four-year adventure filled with learning, resilience, and confidence-building moments. They reflect on those early days of culture shock, navigating visas, finding a place to live, and realizing just how big (and overwhelming) London can feel at first.

The conversation dives into the realities of building community abroad, especially as adults, and how patience, vulnerability, and putting yourself out there are often the key to finding your people. Maddie opens up about creating friendships from scratch—through pub quizzes, meetups, and trial-and-error—while Shelby shares how work and shared interests helped him settle more quickly. Together, they talk candidly about how living abroad reshaped their relationship, strengthened communication, and taught them how to support each other through uncertainty and stress.

They also reflect on travel as a catalyst for growth, including Maddie’s goal of visiting 30 countries before turning 30, unforgettable trips across Europe, and learning to handle when plans go sideways. This episode is an honest, approachable reminder that moving abroad isn’t about perfection or constant excitement—it’s about showing up, staying open, and allowing discomfort to shape who you become. Whether you’re dreaming of life abroad or simply craving a mindset shift, this conversation offers both inspiration and reassurance.

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-Intro and outro music produced by Jeremy Silver-

In this festive episode, Sophie and Jordan cozy up on the couch to share what the holiday season looks like in France, especially now that their twins are old enough to feel the magic. They paint a vivid picture of Aix-en-Provence in December—from the glowing Christmas markets and mulled wine stands along the Cours Mirabeau to carolers, children’s rides, raclette vendors, and beautifully decorated shops throughout the city. They also preview their upcoming plans, including the Christmas market at Château de Mille, a family dinner at La Mas Gorde, and finally visiting the famous holiday lights of Sanary-sur-mer.

They dive into some uniquely Provençal traditions like Les Treize Desserts and artisan-made santons, and reflect on how French Christmas Eve celebrations differ from what they grew up with in the U.S. The two talk about blending traditions—embracing rich French holiday dishes, preparing for Hanukkah with latkes and kugel, and keeping a few American staples like green bean casserole on the table.

The episode closes with a look at what it feels like to raise kids abroad during the holidays and how their community in France has made this season feel especially meaningful. It’s a warm, easygoing chapter full of family energy, cultural discovery, and holiday spirit.

Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review if you’re enjoying the show, and thank you for being a part of our journey.

Contact info:

Instagram:

@the_eptons

-Intro and outro music produced by Jeremy Silver-

In this solo episode of Away We Go We Go, Jordan opens up about navigating the holiday season as an expat in France, from the unexpected quiet of celebrating Thanksgiving abroad to the warmth of carving out new rituals as a family. He shares a peek into their recent holiday weekend—enjoying rare downtime while the twins were in school, exploring nearby towns, savoring great meals, and soaking up small moments of rest while Sophie battles some voice and sinus issues.

Jordan reflects on the emotional side of spending the holidays away from familiar traditions, touching on nostalgia, FOMO, and the surprising ways memories resurface. He compares U.S. holiday staples with French customs like Noël feasts, bûche de Noël, and the Provençal “13 Desserts,” and talks about how expats adapt by blending old and new traditions—Friendsgiving, local dishes, and rituals that help them feel connected despite distance. He also dives into the deeper identity questions expats wrestle with: belonging, staying grounded through uncertainty, and finding pride and gratitude in choosing a path that’s challenging, unconventional, and deeply rewarding.

The episode closes with an honest look at how living abroad shapes personal resilience, relationships, and family life—especially raising toddlers while far from home—and Jordan invites listeners to share their own stories of how they honor traditions, create new ones, and find meaning during the holidays while living away from their home country.

Keywords: expat life, holidays abroad, Thanksgiving abroad, Christmas in France, Provence Christmas markets, Les Treize Desserts, Friendsgiving, living abroad, homesickness, cultural traditions

Links:

• www.czgalerie.com
• https://agastache-restaurant.fr/
• https://grenache-aix.eatbu.com/?lang=fr
• https://open.spotify.com/artist/2DuHHTBRgNc3KNNNaQdooH?si=4RWScv4RQSiums54XW1Ghg

Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review if you’re enjoying the show, and thank you for being a part of our journey.

Contact info:

Instagram:

@the_eptons

-Intro and outro music produced by Jeremy Silver-