She Hit Refresh

This special episode of the She Hit Refresh podcast dives into the world of home swapping. Host Cepee is an avid HomeExchange user with over 60 home swaps, from Madrid to Mexico!Cepee is joined by Clémence Craig, Head of Growth for North America at HomeExchange, who provides an insider's look at how the platform works, its community-driven model, and answers to frequently asked questions. You'll also hear from two experienced Home Exchange members: Maria Nicholas, an American living in Malaga, and Shannon Acton, founder of Bargain Homes Abroad and the Armchair Expat podcast. They share their real-life experiences, favorite swap experiences, and essential tips for first-time home exchangers.We hope you enjoy this episode!  if you're ready to give home swapping a try, head to SheHitRefresh.com/homeexchange, and you'll get some free GuestPoints. See y'all back here next season!IN THIS VIDEO:The benefits of HomeExchange compared to platforms like Airbnb Debunking common misconceptions and misgivings about home sw

Thea Duncan is the founder of Doing Italy, a company that helps people purchase property in Italy. She helps people gain the knowledge they need to move to Italy with ease, while avoiding the pitfalls that can affect expats when moving abroad.Thea shares her personal story of navigating Italy's evolving landscape for foreigners. She discusses everything from securing visas and building a career in Italy's unique job market, and the things that she loves most about Italy.Born in Trinidad and Tobago and raised in Miami, Thea traveled the globe until Italy captured her heart in 2002. She earned her master’s degree at Bocconi University in Milan, and later worked with some of Italy’s storied fashion and design houses, including Gucci and Luxottica. Some 20 years after her first trip to Italy, Thea lives in Milan with her husband, Diego, and their adorable son, Lorenzo.In this video:How Thea's initial trip in 2002 sparked her two-decade journey to living in ItalyVisa options for moving to Italy, including the stud

For the past three and a half years, Marla (53) has called Valencia, Spain, her home. In this episode, Marla gives us an in-depth look at how a rare cancer diagnosis a few months after moving to Spain changed the direction that she thought her “refresh” would take.Along with immersing herself in Spanish culture, Marla is working on her memoir about overcoming adversity with grace and humor. She’s traveled to 40 countries and lived in various parts of Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. She has been a professional fundraiser, event planner, freelance writer, and teacher of English as a Second Language. Marla has been a part of the She Hit Refresh community since 2018. She first appeared on the podcast in 2022 and shared how she's navigated some of the many curveballs thrown her way. In this episode:Marla's experience receiving a rare cancer diagnosis just months after moving to SpainNavigating the Spanish public healthcare system with a chronic illnessParallels between facing a health crisis and moving

Kathleen O’Donnell is a freelance writer and former digital nomad who has lived in Greece full-time since 2022. Athens, with all its chaotic charm, has become Kathleen’s home, and her love for the country keeps getting stronger. Kathleen started her writing business, secured a residency visa in Greece, and has grown her business into a sustainable and successful company. In this episode:How Kathleen transitioned from a corporate job in Boston to freelancing in GreeceRequirements for the Greek digital nomad visa and residency permitWhy Athens is an amazing city — but not for everyoneHow Kathleen built a successful freelance writing businessGreek bureaucracy and living with uncertaintyAdvice for women over 30 who dream of moving abroad but feel scaredWhere to find Kathleen:Substack: American Girl in GreeceTravel blog: mylonesomeroads.comGreek nomad visa/permit processLinkedInThis episode is sponsored by International Living.

Jacinda Fuller is an international educator and aspiring freelancer who’s passionate about living life abroad. After spending three lovely years in Spain, she knew that living abroad was meant for her. Now based in Guatemala, Jacinda is enjoying the warm hospitality and Latin American culture. Cepee catches up with Jacinda, who speaks about why she left Spain, her temporary return to the US, and the teaching opportunity that led her to Central America.This conversation isn't just about changing countries; it's about Jacinda's journey of resilience, adapting to bureaucracy and cultural differences, and her plans to keep evolving her career as a long-term expat.In this episode:Why Jacinda returned to the US after three years as a language assistant in SpainHow Jacinda found a teaching job at an international school in GuatemalaHer favorite things about Spain and her new home of GuatemalaAdvice on overcoming challenges and fears when moving abroadAbout Jacinda:In her free time, she enjoys baking, exp

In 2021, at 36 years old, Mary Alice took a bold leap… leaving behind her life in Philadelphia to start fresh in France, sight unseen!With her husband and young daughter, she moved to Montpellier on France’s profession libérale visa—the country’s self-employment visa—and has been building a new, more intentional life ever since.Tune in to hear how she made it happen and what life looks like now on the other side of her dream.In this episode:Why Mary Alice and her husband decided to move to MontpellierThe steps she took to secure France’s profession libérale visaAdvice on how to get letters of intent from potential French clientsMary Alice's experience adapting her business to her new lifestyle in FranceFrench taxes / social charges and benefits for self-employed individualsDetaching from American productivity culture and embracing a slower lifeMentioned in this episode:Profession libérale visaFoolproof French Visas Connect with Mary AliceTaking the Leap: How Patricia Built a Business in France After 50 |

A favorite guest, Lori L. Tharps, returns for her third appearance on the podcast. Lori is an award-winning author, journalist, and founder of the Reed, Write and Create Sanctuary. She updates us four years after her move from the U.S. to Spain. She talks about her life as an expat in Malaga, how her children have adjusted to life and school in Spain, and how her career has evolved.Lori shares the joys and challenges of building a life abroad, including manifesting her dream creative career, and needing to support her aging parents from afar. Lori initially joined us nine days before her move (Ep39, re-released this season) and again six months later (Ep40). In this episode:Lori’s life and academic career in the US before moving to SpainLori's biggest surprises about living in SpainPractical reasons behind Lori's decision to move to Spain with her familyHow Lori's two children have adjusted to life and schooling in Spain and EuropeOngoing challenges of supporting aging parents from abroadHow Lori

Are you an artist dreaming of a creative life abroad? Well, consider moving to Berlin, which offers artists the opportunity to live in Germany on a freelance artist visa! Carly, a holistic health coach, DJ, and storyteller, shares her path to getting a freelance visa in Germany as an artist juggling multiple creative pursuits. If you’re a creative who doesn’t qualify for a traditional work visa or a digital nomad visa, then this visa might be for you!Carly breaks down the process and requirements for obtaining a freelance visa in Berlin, including language requirements, resources to support you, and steps to German citizenship. She also talks about her unexpected loneliness, culture shock, and living costs in this vibrant city.  If you’re considering moving to Berlin to continue your artistic career, Carly’s honest advice will give you essential information to get you started on the path to residency.In this episode:The process for obtaining a freelance artist visa in BerlinUnexpected challenges of culture sh

Cheryl is a seasoned entrepreneur who built a multi-million dollar business over 32 years. Meanwhile, she traveled to seven continents and over 40 countries. In 2023, she made her dream of living abroad a reality, relocating to Tirana, Albania, after selling and donating most of her belongings. Currently on sabbatical, Cheryl is embracing this next chapter with curiosity and joy.Learn what surprised her most about Albanian culture, and how she’s building community in her new home city. If you feel that moving abroad is too expensive, too complicated, or that you've waited too long, Cheryl's story will give you hope! In this episode:Cheryl’s “good enough” life before making the move abroadHer method of downsizing and the emotional challenges of moving abroadSome of the pros and cons of living in AlbaniaWhat Cheryl loves most about living in TiranaWhy taking a scouting trip to Albania is an essential stepThank you to our sponsor, INTERNATIONAL LIVING!

Are you a nurse in the US dreaming of living and working abroad, but don’t know how? Meet Sophie Blake, a NICU travel nurse who went from travel nursing in the US to working as a nurse in the UK. Sophie shares her experience obtaining a UK skilled worker visa, the licensing process, and the unexpected differences in her daily nursing duties while working in a private hospital in London. If you're a nurse who wants to move abroad, this episode outlines a pathway and the practical steps to working as a nurse in the United Kingdom. In this episode:How Sophie got a visa to work as a nurse in the UKRecruiting agencies that place US nurses in the UKDifferences in nursing duties in the UK vs the USOverall experience of working as a nurse and living in LondonWhere to find Sophie:The Traveling SophaInstagram: @‌TheTravelingSophaMentioned in this episode:Continental NursesReachout MedicalAnywaywardThank you to our sponsor, International Living!

At 51, Patricia Brooks traded her corporate paycheck for life in a small town in southern France. A seasoned problem-solver with many years of experience as project manager and a certified coach, Patricia started a business, The Courage Catalyst. Passionate about instilling confidence and courage in others, Patricia now empowers women to confidently pursue their dreams of living abroad.Patricia discusses pathways for long-term stays and entrepreneurship in France. And she confirms that knowing your core motivation ("your why") is essential for navigating the challenges that come with moving abroad. Her story and expert guidance offer real encouragement for anyone dreaming of an international adventure, proving it's not too late to create a life you love in a new country.In this episode:Patricia's unexpected desire to learn French and decision to move to FranceAnxieties around leaving a corporate paycheck and the importance of running the numbersFrance’s long-stay visitor visa and the profession libérale (free

As founder of Digital Nomad Kit and creator of the Virtual Excellence Academy, Hannah Dixon has empowered over 37,000 freelancers worldwide. Hannah is known for creating inclusive communities that inspire belonging and well-being while empowering learners to build thriving independent businesses.Hannah discusses why being a virtual assistant (VA) is a good career option. She shares her insights on staying motivated, trying to avoid burnout, and what it takes to be a successful VA, as well as her project to support and connect remote workers who are LGBTQIA+. In this episode:Hannah's journey to becoming a pioneer in the location-independent lifestyle.The definition of virtual assistance and the work of Digital Nomad KitHannah’s free 5-Day VA Challenge and its potential to launch remote careersThe benefits of freelancing and becoming a VA over traditional full-time employmentRainbow Remote community for LGBTQIA+ remote workersHannah's future plans and dream projectsConnect with Hannah:Free 5-Day VA Chal

This episode from the archive features author and She Hit Refresh member Lori Tharps just before her 2021 move from the U.S. to Spain with her husband and two children. At that time, Lori was just 9 days away from hopping on a plane and making her life abroad dream with her family a reality! Lori gives us an insight into those last final days of closing up shop on your life in one country and prepping for a big move with your family to another continent. And we’ll be posting an episode this season where we’ll catch up with Lori to see how it’s going now that she’s settled into her life in Spain.In this episode:How her love affair with Spain beganWhy she’s moving to Spain at age 49How she decided to leave her tenured faculty positionHow her children feel about moving to a different countryHow Lori and her husband will support themselves abroadHer experience as a Black woman in SpainWhat the last 9 days of her life in the U.S. were likeAbout LoriLori L. Tharps is an author, journalist, educator, and podcast hos

Cepee answers move abroad questions from the November 2024 Move Abroad After 30 Masterclass, providing practical advice and personal insights to help you navigate your move abroad. Moving abroad can be an emotional rollercoaster. But the challenges that you face can be overcome if you surround yourself with like-minded people and maintain a solutions-based mindset.Still have questions? The April 2025 Move abroad after 30 masterclass is a great resource to get your questions answered!In this episode:Do you need an immigration lawyer when applying for a visa?How do I figure out where to move if I'm not sure yet?Can I take my U.S.-based job abroad?What kind of healthcare can I expect abroad?How do I rebuild my social life abroad?Should I buy property abroad?How do I stay motivated when the move abroad feels overwhelming?About Cepee:Cepee Tabibian is the founder of She Hit Refresh, a global community of over 17,000 women aged 30+ who want to transform their lives by moving abroad. Her expertise and inspiring

Cepee speaks with Denise, who moved from the US to the Netherlands in her 50s on the DAFT visa. A certified project manager and Prosci-certified change manager, Denise is launching her management consulting business, Pastel Fire Business Consulting, while navigating life in her new home. Denise's story will inspire you to pursue your dreams, no matter your age!In this episode:How divorce and tech layoffs led to a turning pointThe fear, excitement, and uncertainty of preparing for a move abroadDAFT visa requirements, benefits, and limitationsFinding housing in the Netherlands’ competitive rental marketDenise's advice for women in their 50s who want to move abroadWhere to find Denise:Pastel Fire Business ConsultingYouTube: @TrippingtheBrightFantasticMentioned in this episode:I want to take care of me: Why more American women are moving abroad for a better life (USA Today)THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR, INTERNATIONAL LIVING!

Cait Church is a music marketing professional, full-time wanderluster, and typical Pisces. With a passion for amplifying the voices of women in country music, Cait built her career at a major record label as a marketing director and promotion director. But burnout led her to step away, and she embarked on an adult gap year, traveling across Europe with her wife and Winston, their one-eyed Chihuahua mix.Now based in Valencia, Spain, Cait is a freelancer, working on projects that are in alignment with her lifestyle, including collaborating with She Hit Refresh and working in international marketing at an artist management company. On weekends, you’ll find her eating tapas, taking walks along the Mediterranean, or hopping on a train to explore somewhere new. In this episode:Cait’s burnout and adult gap year away from the corporate hustleSpain’s Golden Visa and changing visa requirementsWhy Valencia is a great fit for Cait and her wifeLiving as an LGBTQ+ couple in SpainHow networking helped Cait transition to fre

Michelle Coulson is CEO and founder of Remote Rebellion, a company that teaches people how to get remote work and design their lives with freedom and flexibility. In this episode, Michelle shares actionable tips on how to get a remote job, common mistakes to avoid, and the realities of the digital nomad lifestyle. Originally from the UK, Michelle worked as a recruiter for seven years. During lockdown, she was required to work remotely, so she took advantage and moved from London to Bali.Then in 2021, when the dreaded “return to office” call came, she said NO. She quit her job and set up Remote Rebellion. Since then, she’s empowered hundreds of people to get remote jobs that align with their values. In this episode:Michelle's path from a traditional job in London to working remotely in BaliWhy Michelle founded Remote RebellionDebunking misconceptions about remote workCommon mistakes job seekers make Tips for landing remote rolesStrategies to stand out in the competitive remote job marketWhy taking breaks and p

Alyssa is an American writer and educator with a very low tolerance for comfort zones. Ten years ago she took the leap of a lifetime, moving from Boston to teach at an international school in Switzerland. She currently lives in Scotland, where she recently completed her PhD. She loves being an advocate for other solo women looking to take their leap into life abroad.Alyssa has been a finalist for the BBC's Scottish Voices talent development program, and her unpublished novel was longlisted for Helen Lederer's Comedy Women in Print Prize. In her free time she can be found dancing (badly) doing improv and hanging out in bookstores. In this episode:Why Alyssa left Boston to explore international opportunitiesHow she found her first teaching position in SwitzerlandThe timeline for international school recruitment and tips for educatorsWhy she moved to Edinburgh, ScotlandUK visa options and challengesHow to deal with doubts when making a big life changeThe value of community and support from women who have already

Nicole is a 44-year-old American who moved from California to Portugal, sight unseen, with her husband, two cats, and a dog. Before moving, Nicole was successful in convincing her employer to let her work remotely from overseas. Three years later, she’s happily living in Porto, learning the language, building a community, and sharing her immigrant journey on Instagram. She has no regrets about her decision to move and enjoys the slower pace of life, affordability, and safety in her new home country. In this episode: Why Nicole and her husband chose Portugal over other options Differences between Portugal’s D7 visa and digital nomad visa How Nicole made a strong case to her employer that enabled her to work remotely Using an EOR (employer of record) company to handle taxes and compliance How she found her apartment in Porto Challenges of making local friends and the importance of expat communitiesEOR (Employer of Record) Companies: Deal Native Teams  RemoteWhere to find Nicole:Nicole shares her immigran

Your host, Cepee, is joined by a returning favorite, Cindy Sheahan, for an update on her incredible journey. Cindy learned about the possibility of obtaining Italian citizenship through descent, a much faster process than waiting for Portuguese citizenship. This led to a swift change of plans, packing up her life in Portugal and heading to Italy. Cindy's story is proof that it's never too late to rewrite your story. From solo travel at 56 to now traveling extensively with a partner and a home base in Palermo, Sicily, Cindy's adventures show that it's never too late to change course!In this episode: Pivoting from nomadic travel to living in Portugal to becoming an Italian citizen Why Italy works better for Cindy’s nomadic lifestyle  Overview of the process to obtain Italian citizenship through descent Update on her relationship with her French paraglider boyfriend What Cindy loves about Palermo, SicilyAbout CindyCindy is a world traveler, American expat, wine drinker, and rule-breake