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FLOURISHING IN SPAIN: Christine Job on Finding Home, Purpose & Herself Abroad

Updated: Aug 7


FLOURISHING IN SPAIN: Christine Job on Finding Home, Purpose & Herself Abroad

FLOURISHING IN SPAIN: Christine Job on Finding Home, Purpose & Herself Abroad


What does it really mean to thrive abroad? In this episode of the Armchair Expat podcast, host Shannon Acton interviews Christine Job, J.D., the award-winning storyteller, strategist, and creator of the acclaimed podcast Flourish in the Foreign. Christine shares her powerful journey from burnout in Atlanta to building a new life in Spain—one rooted in wellness, community, and creative purpose.


If you’ve ever dreamed of moving abroad, questioned the grind of U.S. hustle culture, or wondered how expat life can support your personal growth, this episode offers a refreshingly honest and deeply inspiring perspective.


From Burnout to Breakthrough: A Life Transformed by Living Abroad


Christine’s relocation story didn’t start with a carefully crafted plan. It began with burnout—after law school, launching a business, and chasing external success. In 2017, she took a sabbatical to Spain, walked the Camino de Santiago, and never looked back. What she discovered on the trail wasn’t just the beauty of Northern Spain—it was a deeper sense of clarity and a new relationship with time, rest, and purpose.

Spain’s slower, more intentional pace of life offered Christine something she didn’t know she was missing: space to breathe, to reflect, and to reimagine what success could look like.


Why Spain? Culture, Community, and a Different Way of Living


In the episode, Christine reflects on the cultural differences between the U.S. and Spain—especially around work-life balance, wellness, and societal values. She shares how Spain's culture of community care and rest helped her step away from the "grind-to-prove-your-worth" mindset so common in American life.

“I just didn’t want to be burned out anymore,” she says. “And I didn’t want my mental or physical health to be the price of success.”

Creating Flourish in the Foreign and Amplifying Black Women’s Voices Abroad

Christine also opens up about launching Flourish in the Foreign, her award-winning podcast that affirms and amplifies the stories of Black women thriving abroad. What began as a pandemic passion project has since grown into a globally recognized platform—and soon, a forthcoming book exploring the intersections of Blackness, womanhood, migration, and wellness.


Through over 150 episodes, Christine has created space for nuanced, liberating conversations about identity, belonging, and what it means to build a life overseas.


Episode Highlights: What You’ll Learn

In this episode, we explore:

  • Burnout, sabbaticals, and starting over abroad

  • The Camino de Santiago and its impact on clarity and self-trust

  • Cultural differences between the U.S. and Spain around wellness and rest

  • Why community and social connection are central to life in Spain

  • How migration can be a form of liberation and identity expansion

  • The creation and evolution of Flourish in the Foreign

  • How to know if you’re ready for life abroad—and how to choose a country that nurtures who you are


Whether you're actively planning a move abroad or simply craving a more aligned and intentional way of living, Christine’s story is a powerful reminder that you don’t have to grind yourself into the ground to build a meaningful life.


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Connect with Christine

With over 700,000 properties across Spain, Portugal, France and Italy – plus expert advice and curated emails full of dream homes and local insights – Kyero makes finding your perfect place abroad a breeze.

Kyero Property Sampler


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Location: Monpazier, Dordogne France
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Description: Escape to this delightful stone cottage, a short stroll from the heart of Monpazier's shops, bars and restaurants. Relax on the spacious covered terrace overlooking your private pool and stunning countryside views.
Village house in Monpazier, Dordogne 195,000 Euros

Bargain Property - Spain

Location: Restabal, Granada Spain
Asking Price: €137,000
Beds: 3
Baths: 2
This delightful 3-bedroom village home is in a quiet street in the picturesque village of Restábal, in the beautiful Lecrín Valley. Brimming with character, the property features high ceilings, terracotta floor tiles, large windows throughout and many original architectural details.
Village house in Restabal Granada Spain for 137000 Euro
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Bargain Property - Portugal

Location: Guerreiros do Rio, Faro Portugal
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Beds: 1
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Located in the picturesque village of Guerreiros do Rio - Alcoutim, this single-story house underwent a complete renovation and was fully equipped in 2022. Situated just a few meters away from the Guadiana River, the property offers easy access to the riverside area, which features a boat pier, small local shops, and a museum showcasing the village's heritage.
Villa in Alcoutim Faro Portugal €149,500

Bargain Property - Italy

Location: Riparbella, Tuscany Italy
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Nestled in the stunning setting of the Cecina hills, casa alfred is much more than a holiday home it’s a little corner of paradise for those seeking privacy, peace, and authentic beauty, immersed in the timeless charm of Tuscany.
Apartment in Riparbella Tuscany Italy Pisa €265,000

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


If you enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe, and leave a review. It helps us reach more future expats and keep these stories coming.

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

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