Episode Details

What if summer didn’t feel like unpaid overtime with a side of mom guilt?

In this episode of Abroadly Speaking, I pull back the curtain on what summer really looks like when you leave the U.S.—and no, it’s not all white linen beach photos and perfect sunsets.

I share my own story of swapping a spreadsheet full of “free” activities (that still cost $75) for a life where summer isn’t something to survive. From six-week school breaks and paid vacation that actually lets you rest, to day camps that teach independence instead of just supervision—this is the unfiltered, real-life version of raising a kid abroad.

We talk about:

✅ How summer in Switzerland actually works (spoiler: it’s not 12 weeks of chaos)

✅ Why living abroad didn’t make life perfect—but made it damn more livable

✅ Letting go of guilt about “not doing enough” every day

✅ The quiet truth: wanting more space, slower days, and less panic doesn’t make you selfish—it makes you awake

If you’re currently googling “affordable summer camps near me” or “how old can a kid be home alone,” take this as your sign:

It doesn’t have to be like this.

✨ Want to take the first step?

Grab my free visa checklist—a real, no-fluff list of what you actually need to get your paperwork started.

🌍 Ready for more?

• Follow along on Instagram @iammistelle for the real, messy, hilarious life abroad
• Leave a quick review to help other women (and moms) dreaming of a slower, saner life abroad find us
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Life’s too short to stay stuck. Let’s see what’s possible—together.