France Made Simple

Taking down internal walls in a French property can transform your space—but it’s rarely straightforward. In this episode, we look at what’s really involved, from structural considerations to cleaning up the mess afterwards. And yes, that’s the worst part!
A concise, practical reality check to help you plan smarter before you start swinging the hammer.

Designing a dream kitchen in a French home sounds idyllic—until you run into the realities of old stone walls, uneven floors, and workmen that move ant their own pace. In this episode, we break down what it actually takes to create a kitchen that works for modern life while respecting the character of a French property.
From planning layouts and choosing materials to navigating French suppliers, artisans, and timelines, this is a practical look at the decisions that matter. We cover budgeting in a market where costs can escalate quickly, the trade-offs between bespoke and off-the-shelf solutions, and how to avoid common (and expensive) mistakes.
Whether you’re renovating a farmhouse, updating a village house, or starting from scratch, this episode will help you approach your kitchen project with clarity—and fewer (nasty!) surprises.

In this episode, I’m chatting to Ellen Hilton, a young American mum, who has made the leap across the Atlantic to start a completely new life in France. We talk candidly about the realities behind the Instagram version of expat life.
She shares what surprised her most about raising a child in France, from cultural differences in pre-school and parenting styles to the practical challenges of healthcare, administration, and everyday routines. We also get into the emotional side: identity shifts, isolation, and the small wins that make it all worthwhile.
If you’re thinking about moving to France with children - or you’re already here and wondering if everyone else is finding it just as complicated - this conversation is just what you need to hear!
And you can catch up with Ellen’s various social channels including here blog here : https://www.americaineinfrance.com

Navigating life in France is easier when you’ve got the right tools in your pocket. In this episode, we break down the most useful apps to have on your phone—from transport and banking to food delivery, healthcare, and everyday admin. Whether you’re a newcomer trying to decode the system or a long-term resident looking to streamline daily life, these apps can save you time, money, and frustration.
We’re talking essential services like getting around with ease, managing bills, finding the best local spots, and staying connected to French bureaucracy without the headache. Expect practical recommendations, insider tips, and a few lesser-known gems that even seasoned expats might not be using yet.
If you want to simplify your day-to-day life in France, this episode gives you a curated digital toolkit to get started.
And here’s a link to the CROWDFARMING app - https://cfarm.co/mgm?lc=LC3BCK8P

What is daily life really like in France? In this episode, we unpack the small but constant frictions of living in France—from confusing bureaucracy and slow administration to shop opening hours, strikes, customer service differences, and language barriers.

If you’re an expat, planning a move to France, or already living here and wondering why everything feels just slightly harder than expected, this episode breaks down the hidden realities behind French life.

A practical, honest look at expat life in France, French culture, and the everyday challenges that don’t make it into the dream—but shape your experience once you’re here.