Away We Go We Go

What does it really take to move to France- and stay?In this episode, I’m sitting down with Susannah and Hugh Cameron, the founders of Chez Pluie (a beautifully curated French antiques boutique) and creators of Provence Export, a shipping app that helps shoppers get antiques home safely from anywhere in France.They share the real story behind their move from Australia to Provence, including the unforgettable moment they bought their village house in just four days (yes, really), what it was like arriving with no fixed plan, and how they built a business from a garage logistics setup into a full-scale operation with a growing French team.We talk about the romantic side of Provence and the realities: French bureaucracy, hiring, taxes, finding the right accountant, and how embracing the French system became a turning point. Plus, Susannah and Hugh share behind-the-scenes stories from shipping priceless antiques around the world, including a truly wild one involving Julia Child’s stove!If you’re dreaming about a big move, building a business abroad, or just love Provence, antiques, and reinvention, this one’s for you.More Information about Chez Pluie:www.chezpluie.comhttps://www.instagram.com/chezpluie/https://www.chezpluie.com/pages/international-shipping-of-french-antiques-and-fine-arthttps://catalog.chezpluie.com/at-home-with-patricia-wells/full-view.htmlhttps://catalog.chezpluie.com/eb3ea471-160f-435e-8ae6-3eae990aae9cProvence Export App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/provence-export/id6471974317https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.export.exportDon’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 special one-year anniversary episode of Away We Go We Go, we’re taking a moment to reflect on everything this past year has held—both on the podcast and in our life in France. What started as a way to answer questions and document our move abroad has grown into a global community we never could have imagined. From raising our twins in Provence and building family rituals at local markets, to traveling across Europe and back to California, this year has been full of adventure, perspective, and growth. We share some of our biggest “roses” from the year—travel highlights, watching our kids thrive, deepening friendships, and the unexpected joy of creating a home and rhythm here.Of course, we also talk honestly about the “thorns.” The realities of bureaucracy, visa delays, school logistics, traffic, and the emotional toll of navigating life in a foreign country are very real. Moving abroad isn’t just lavender fields and long lunches—it’s paperwork, hard decisions, and plenty of “what the heck are we doing?” moments. We open up about the challenges we’ve faced behind the scenes and what those experiences have taught us about resilience, perspective, and knowing your “why.”Most of all, this episode is about gratitude. We reflect on how this podcast has connected us with incredible guests and listeners around the world, and how much this community has meant to us. Thank you for being part of this journey—through the laughs, the mishaps, the big wins, and the messy middle. We can’t wait to see what the next year brings.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-

When Jordan heads back to the U.S. for a work conference, Sophie is left holding down the fort in France—and almost immediately, the week spirals into total chaos. A planned support system falls through, illness hits the house, the logistics of solo parenting pile up, and even Jordan’s return home turns into a multi-day travel nightmare. What starts as a string of unfortunate (and eventually laughable) events opens the door to a much deeper conversation.As Sophie navigates life on the ground in France and Jordan slips back into the rhythms, comforts, and contradictions of being in the U.S., they’re both confronted with a familiar but rarely discussed truth of living abroad: your heart doesn’t neatly relocate when you move countries. In this episode, they talk candidly about what it means to miss home while loving the life you’ve built somewhere else, the emotional whiplash of moving between cultures, and the quiet reality that your heart can belong to two places at once. If you’ve ever moved far from home, lived abroad, or wondered whether missing one place means you chose the wrong one, this conversation is for you.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_eptonsTikTok: @the_eptons-Intro and outro music produced by Jeremy Silver-

What if you gave yourself permission to pause — really pause — and intentionally design your year ahead?In this solo episode, Sophie pulls back the curtain on the 2026 Summit she and Jordan created: a 24-hour intentional getaway to reflect, dream, plan, and build a clear roadmap for their best year yet. This isn’t about vision boards alone or vague resolutions — it’s about turning big dreams into real, calendar-backed action.Whether you’re craving clarity, feeling stuck in the hamster wheel of daily life, or dreaming about bold changes (big or small), this episode walks you through exactly how to host your own personal summit — solo or with someone you love — starting right where you are.Your life is worth the pause. Your dreams are worth a plan.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_eptonsTikTok: @the_eptons-Intro and outro music produced by Jeremy Silver-

In this episode of Away We Go We Go, we’re getting real about something that doesn’t show up on postcards: what it’s actually like to live in Provence during the winter. While the region is often romanticized for lavender fields and endless summer, winter brings a very different rhythm—slower days, quieter villages, fewer open businesses, colder homes, and a noticeable emotional shift. We talk honestly about the contrast between expectations and reality, from the lack of central heating and high energy costs to the way entire towns can feel like ghost towns once the tourist season ends.We also share what winter looks like for us as a family living here full time, especially with young kids. Between weeks of rain, limited outdoor time, and navigating school schedules and closures, winter requires a lot more planning, flexibility, and acceptance. At the same time, there are unexpected positives: a calmer pace, deeper connections with other expats who stay through the season, and the chance to experience Provence as locals do—through seasonal markets, winter produce, and quieter routines that invite rest.This episode is about perspective, trade-offs, and learning as you go. Whether you’re dreaming of moving abroad, planning a winter trip to the south of France, or already living here and wondering if it’s just you—this is a candid look at the season most people don’t talk about. Winter in Provence isn’t for everyone, but with the right expectations, planning, and mindset, it can still be meaningful, grounding, and even quietly beautiful.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 episode of Away We Go We Go, we’re finally back after an unexpectedly long holiday break and kicking off 2026 with a real-life catch-up. Between 17 straight days home with the twins, festive traditions in Provence, and a December fueled almost entirely by sugar, we talk through what the holidays actually looked like for us—equal parts magical, chaotic, and exhausting. From toddler performances and gingerbread house disasters to that familiar post-Christmas emotional dip, this episode is an honest look at family life abroad during the holidays.We also share the reset we didn’t know we needed: a rare kid-free staycation that gave us space to rest, reconnect, and slow down after weeks of nonstop motion. We reflect on why building in intentional pauses matters—especially as parents—and how even a short break can change everything. We wrap things up with highlights from festive coastal light displays, the reality of winter in Europe, and a candid recap of how sickness hit at the worst possible time (and how teamwork carried us through).This episode is a soft re-entry into the new year—warm, reflective, and real. If the holidays left you feeling full, tired, or a little wrung out, this one is a reminder that rest counts, survival is enough, and sometimes the best way forward is to slow down first.Links:Maison de Frederic  (Instagram) Sanary-sur-MerDon’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 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.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 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 traditionsLinks:www.czgalerie.comhttps://agastache-restaurant.fr/https://grenache-aix.eatbu.com/?lang=frhttps://open.spotify.com/artist/2DuHHTBRgNc3KNNNaQdooH?si=4RWScv4RQSiums54XW1GhgDon’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-

Join Sophie and her mom Camy for a charming deep dive into Provence shopping — from magical Christmas markets to iconic brocantes, antiques, French fashion, and the artisanal foods that make this region a dream for every traveler.In this episode, we explore: • Why Provence and France are some of the best places in the world to shop • The most memorable Christmas markets and what makes them so enchanting • Provençal foods worth bringing home: lavender honey, jams, truffle goodies & more • How to spot quality vendors at local marchés • The best flea markets and antique shops (including hidden gems!) • What to buy for the perfect French-inspired gift • Provençal vs. Parisian fashion + where to shop for linens, scarves & effortless French style • Our favorite small producers, artisans, and can’t-miss local boutiquesWhether you’re planning holiday shopping in France or dreaming of a future trip, this guide will help you shop Provence like a local — savoring beauty, craftsmanship, and the joy of finding treasures you’ll cherish forever.Keywords: Provence shopping, Provence markets, French Christmas markets, Provence antiques, brocantes, French fashion, shopping in France, Provence travel tipsLinks:https://www.lesagnels.com/en/https://maisondoramaar.org/events/christmas-market/https://www.fairepress.com/marchedenoel2025https://beaurepos.fr/https://www.instagram.com/laboutiquedelantiquairehttps://www.facebook.com/BrocantedeCarpentras/https://chez-serge.fr/https://www.pucesdeparissaintouen.com/en/https://www.instagram.com/yourfrench_rendezvous/https://www.instagram.com/frenchlarkspur/https://www.souleiado.com/https://www.fragonard.com/https://www.instagram.com/le_104_rdm/https://isabelmarant.com/https://www.lagrandeboutique.net/fr/https://www.jerome-dreyfuss.com/enhttps://jamiebeck.co/https://amandadaniel.com/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-

Thinking about moving to France? In this episode, Sophie and Jordan share the honest, unfiltered reality of expat life in the South of France — from cultural differences and surprising lifestyle adjustments to navigating bureaucracy, parenting, and daily rhythms that look nothing like life in the U.S. If you’ve ever dreamed of starting fresh in France, this is the episode you need before you pack your bags.

In this episode, Sophie and Jordan are finally back together behind the mic — catching up after a whirlwind stretch of travel that took them from Paris to London to California. They share their favorite Paris discoveries, from hidden hotels and perfect fries to their go-to Lebanese spot and the surprisingly luxurious Italian train that connects Aix to Paris. The conversation then jumps across the Atlantic as they recount their California adventures — tacos, sunsets, ice cream, and the joy (and exhaustion) of working while traveling.Back home in France, they dive into real life again — jet lag, parenting twin toddlers, and navigating the quirks of the French school calendar. Sophie and Jordan also answer listener questions about expat life: from whether French bureaucracy or the French language is harder to master, to what’s in season at the fall markets, and how healthcare works in France compared to the U.S. Their honest, funny reflections give a glimpse into the highs, hiccups, and heart behind building a new life abroad.Whether you’re dreaming of moving overseas or just love hearing how others make bold changes work, this episode blends travel inspiration, practical insights, and the relatable chaos of expat family life. Grab a cup of coffee (or a glass of French wine) and settle in for stories of Paris charm, California comfort, and the real realities of life between two worlds.Links:https://www.hotelparticulier.com/https://www.legrandmazarin.com/fr/https://www.instagram.com/des.jacqueries/https://www.restaurant-liza.com/https://www.walmercastle-nottinghill.co.uk/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-

Hello everybody, Jordan here!In this heartfelt solo episode, I celebrate twelve years of marriage with Sophie and offer a candid look into our experience of moving abroad as a couple. I reflect on the adventures, challenges, and growth that have shaped our relationship since making the leap to Provence with our twins. I share personal stories from our deconstructed wedding, the importance of knowing your “why” before big changes, and how roles and communication have evolved in our partnership.I dive into the reality behind the “dream” of living abroad, speaking honestly about moments of exhaustion, shifting roles, and the ups and downs that come with being far from friends and family. I highlight the ways we support each other through tough days, maintain a sense of humor, and continually choose to be each other’s home even amidst uncertainty and stress.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:Website: https://sophieepton.com/ Instagram: @thesophiepton@jordanepton-Intro and outro music produced by Jeremy Silver- 

In this episode, I sit down with Trisha Estopiñan, the creative force behind Mama Does Europe, to talk about her vibrant journey of moving from Florida to Paris with her family. Trisha shares her real experiences, from navigating life in a city where every street feels magical to the daily surprises of parenting abroad and building a lively online community. We explore how living in Paris has changed her, what family life looks like in France, and her favorite moments from sharing it all with the world.We chat about the ups and downs of expat life, hilarious culture clashes, and memorable Instagram moments. Trisha reflects on the challenges of adapting to French ways, starting fresh during a global lockdown, raising bilingual kids, and the friendships she’s made along the way. She also opens up about preparing for her family’s next chapter as they get ready to move back to Florida, highlighting the excitement and bittersweet feelings that come with it.If you’ve ever thought about packing up for a big adventure or want an honest, funny, and insightful look at life abroad, this episode is for you. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave us a review. Follow me and Trisha for more stories and inspiration about living boldly and making memories wherever you are.Links of Trisha Estopiñan: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mamadoeseurope/Contact info: Website: https://sophieepton.com/ Instagram: @thesophiepton@jordanepton-Intro and outro music produced by Jeremy Silver-

In this heartfelt episode, Jordan takes the reins solo and shares both the joys and challenges that come with uprooting your life and moving abroad. Drawing from personal experiences in France, he reflects on everything from embracing micro routines and handling unpredictable expenses to the very real struggles of making mistakes and navigating language fatigue. You will get a candid peek into the ups and downs of daily life, coupled with relatable anecdotes about raising twins, weathering allergy season, and uncovering the not-so-glamorous reality behind those dreamy Instagram posts.Jordan also dives deep into practical tips for protecting your mental health when living overseas: creating simple rituals, budgeting for surprises, seeking out “anchor people,” and giving yourself permission to celebrate ordinary wins. The episode emphasizes that while life abroad is often romanticized, building true stability and happiness comes from embracing the small victories and weathering inevitable frustrations with grace.If you’re dreaming of making a big move, are in the thick of adjusting to life in a new country, or just need a boost in your day-to-day resilience, this episode is for you. We’d love to hear your thoughts or your own tips for thriving through life’s big transitions. So don’t forget to subscribe, share with a friend, and join our community on Instagram or TikTok!Contact info: Website: https://sophieepton.com/ Instagram: @thesophiepton@jordanepton-Intro and outro music produced by Jeremy Silver- 

Thinking about a bold move abroad? In this episode, I chat with Eryn Albaugh, who recently traded California sunshine for the lavender fields of Provence. She shares the excitement, challenges, and emotional ups and downs of her family’s first three months in France, from leaving a beloved home and friends to navigating cultural differences and creating new daily rhythms.From a dreamy Paris proposal to a Tuscan wedding and new motherhood in California, Eryn’s story is filled with big leaps and heartfelt moments. We explore what it’s really like to relocate with kids, build community in a new country, and embrace the simple joys of slower living. Whether you’re planning an international move or simply craving inspiration, this conversation will reassure you that starting fresh can be both possible and deeply rewarding.Links:https://www.instagram.com/chasingprovence/https://chasingprovence.substack.com/archivehttps://www.venuereport.com/blog/an-under-the-tuscan-sun-style-wedding/Contact info:Website: https://sophieepton.com/ Instagram: @thesophiepton@jordanepton-Intro and outro music produced by Jeremy Silver-

In this episode of Away We Go We Go, we open up about what life’s really been like since we took the leap and moved our family to France two years ago. From handling France’s endless paperwork and adjusting to the slower pace of life, it’s all here: the highs, the lows, and the everyday magic of living abroad. We even share how our recent experiences, like a transformative solo trip to Florence and our twins starting at an international school, have shaped our perspective on expat life. We also have a little fun with pop culture, diving into “The Summer I Turned Pretty” and exploring what TV gets right (and wrong!) about moving to France. From tricky visa rules to the magical moments wandering sunlit streets, we break down the real vs. the romanticized. It’s a blend of humor, honesty, and practical advice for anyone dreaming of living abroad or just curious about life in the south of France. If you’ve ever been inspired by a show, book, or movie to start your own adventure, we’d love to hear your story! Don’t forget to hit subscribe so you won’t miss our next guest episode. Thanks for listening, and remember, you’re not alone in chasing those big, bold dreams! Contact info: Website: https://sophieepton.com/ Instagram: @thesophiepton@jordanepton-Intro and outro music produced by Jeremy Silver- 

In this episode, I talk with Adrienne Ryser about her journey from sunny California to lively Paris, and now to peaceful Oslo. She shares how growing up surrounded by flowers and working in PR led her to buy the oldest flower shop in Paris, and later bring her floral art to Norway. Her story is about love, resilience, and finding inspiration in unexpected places.Adrienne also talks about the cultural differences she’s noticed in her new home, from local flower traditions to the slower pace of life in Norway. She explains how she combines French techniques with her own style, and gives us a glimpse of her upcoming book on French floral arranging.This episode takes you behind the scenes of starting a business abroad, adjusting to a new culture, and turning challenges into opportunities. If you’ve ever thought about moving somewhere new, starting fresh, or just enjoy stories of change and growth, you’ll find this conversation inspiring.Links:https://www.larrosoirparis.com/ https://www.instagram.com/larrosoirparis/https://www.instagram.com/adrienneryser/ https://www.amazon.fr/Fleurs-Bouquets-Arrangements-French-Inspirations/dp/1454958022 Contact info:Website: https://sophieepton.com/ Instagram: @thesophiepton@jordanepton-Intro and outro music produced by Jeremy Silver-

In this heartfelt episode, I take you on a personal journey back to Florence, Italy, a city that changed my life in ways I never expected. I share memories from my college years when I felt stuck, weighed down by a difficult relationship and searching for a sense of self. Through moments of growth, learning to navigate a new culture, and stepping far outside my comfort zone, Florence became the place where I rediscovered my confidence, independence, and dreams.I reminisce about vibrant days of exploring the city, connecting with new friends, savoring gelato on the steps of Santa Croce, and tackling all the small challenges of living abroad. These experiences shaped who I am, encouraged me to take risks, and ultimately led to meeting my husband and building a life filled with adventure and possibility.If you’re on the edge of making a big change or just love stories about transformation and travel, this episode is for you. Listen in for inspiration and a reminder that you are the architect of your own life. Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and follow along for more uplifting stories and adventures.Contact info: Website: https://sophieepton.com/ Instagram: @thesophiepton@jordanepton-Intro and outro music produced by Jeremy Silver- 

In this episode of Away We Go We Go, we’re celebrating a big milestone: our twins just turned three! Between birthday cake, ice cream, and a little less sleep than usual, we share what life has been like lately and reflect on how far we’ve come as parents. There are plenty of sweet moments (and funny ones) that remind us what raising twins abroad is all about.We also finally braved the giant Carrefour after two years in France, and it did not disappoint. From long-missed ingredients to pantry staples we’d almost forgotten about, it felt like striking gold. Along the way, we dive into school choices, building community, and why finding real connections matters so much as parents in a new country.Plus, we answer your questions about the best times to visit Provence, mom networks in Europe, and the markets you won’t want to miss.If you’ve been enjoying these glimpses into our daily life, or have questions of your own, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review. We’d love to hear from you. And for more updates and behind-the-scenes moments, follow us on Instagram @the_eptonsLinks:https://www.mailegusa.com/https://barjac-foire-antiquites-brocante.org/ https://www.mothereuro.com/Contact info:Website: https://sophieepton.com/ Instagram: @thesophiepton@jordanepton-Intro and outro music produced by Jeremy Silver-