The New Paris Podcast

Should chocolate be an everyday item? How much should it cost? How challenging is it to run a chocolate shop? All of those questions get answers with Jade Genin, chocolatière and daughter of Jacques Genin, whose shop on Avenue de l'Opéra in Paris approaches chocolate a bit differently. Mentioned in this episode: Jade GeninJacques GeninXoco  Maxime Frédéric Audio production & editing: Matthew Jordan⁠Music by Little Glass Men⁠

10 years is almost an eternity in the restaurant world, and it’s a milestone that Pearl Lee reached with her business, The Hood. The Singaporean has run a Southeast Asian, in addition to a bánh mì sandwich and donut shop called Nonette across the street. I recently traveled with her through Singapore, a truly fascinating multiethnic and cultural melting pot, and I finally got to see firsthand how that plays out in its food. She joins me to talk about going from the corporate world to food, the hurdles she’s overcome in fulfilling her vision for the cafe, and educating diners about Southeast Asian flavors, particularly in Singapore, and why NOW Parisian diners are really latching on.Mentioned in this episode:The HoodNonetteBlk65Bao Family Belimbing Yeo’s Audio production & editing: Matthew Jordan⁠Music by Little Glass Men⁠

By now you’ve been inundated with images and news reports about the record-breaking heat crisis that hit nearly all of Europe last week, impacting France the most. The intensity of that was the cherry on top of a particularly punishing local news cycle in recent months, especially for CNN’s Paris bureau chief Saskya Vandoorne. She joins me to talk about what we can learn from the heat wave about our current climate crisis, as well as some of the very serious investigations she’s worked on since the start of the year. Warning: this episode contains discussions of sexual abuse and violence. Mentioned in this episode:Saskya Vandoorne, CNNHeat wave in France Paris is boiling Gisèle Pelicot case Investigation on abuse networkExposing a global rape academyLyhanna case and justice system failuresAudio production & editing: Matthew Jordan⁠Music by Little Glass Men⁠

Next month marks six years, if you can believe it, since The New Parisienne was released. I’ve kept tabs on all the women I profiled and some have become dear friends. Among them: Ariane Bernard who, at the time of our first interview, was overseeing all things digital at Le Parisien newspaper.  I distinctly remember the moment I met her. I heard her speak with the kind of cultural fluency and humor of someone reared in the United States. And yet, she wasn’t. I quickly learned she was perfectly bilingual but I also wanted to know how she accommodated the dualities of her identity. Today, she works for herself and goes between Paris and New York. We talk about her sequential bilingual journey, navigating two very different work cultures, and a few of her linguistic grievances. You’ll also hear which spots in Paris she returns to time and again. Want to learn French at your own pace with private or group classes online? Sign up for Lingoda. Mentioned in this episode: Ariane Bernard Sequential bilingualism Le Parisien Taboola Oh My CreamInstitut de France (18th century)Cour Carré du Louvre Le Severo Audio production & editing: Matthew Jordan⁠Music by Little Glass Men⁠

Moving to a new city can be both exciting and daunting, especially when it comes to making new friends. Paris, with its rich culture and vibrant social scene, may seem like the perfect place to forge connections. However, many newcomers often find it challenging to break into established social circles. Jane Bertch, entrepreneur, author, and podcaster at GenerateHER, joins me to talk about how we've made friends over the years and the etiquette of building contacts and friends in Paris, where cultural norms differ. Mentioned in this episode:Leaving America essay Jane Bertch GenerateHer Podcast Prompts from ParisJane's episode on friendship Amy Cuddy Retreats with JaneAudio production & editing: Matthew Jordan⁠Music by Little Glass Men⁠

As you may know, chocolate isn’t created equal, and French style is very different from Belgian and Swiss confections. There are chocolate shops and pastry chefs who dabble in chocolate all over Paris, but within that network, there are clear differences in quality. Lisa Allen, a chocolate educator, pastry chef, and guide who runs Tarts & Truffles, joins me to talk about some of these distinctions, what she’s learned about chocolate over the years, and where she recommends you go for all your chocolate needs in Paris.  Mentioned in this episode Lisa Allen, Tarts & TrufflesLisa on InstagramChuaoDandelion Chocolate Ferrandi Paris Ara ChocolateL'Instant Cacao Patrick RogerJacques GeninPlaqAudio production & editing: Matthew Jordan⁠Music by Little Glass Men⁠

What happens when you trade fifteen years of working in law for a professional kitchen? In the case of today’s guest, you get one of the most flavorful and unique dining experiences in the city. Priscilla Tram, the chef and founder of Trâm 130, has changed the conversation about what 'personal' cooking looks like in Paris today. We’ll talk about her career, why Paris was finally ready for her unique culinary voice, and chat about her brand-new project, Trâmette, opening soon in the 11th arrondissement. Mentioned in this episode:Trâm 130 The HoodRori Yasube Le DauphinGrammeAudio production & editing: Matthew Jordan⁠Music by Little Glass Men⁠

What if Made in France for crafts could be a form of activism? Paramaz, a leather workshop, boutique, and café, is doing just that. I'm joined today by the co-owner and creative director, Marianna Stepanian, whose journey from diplomacy at UNESCO and the Dutch Embassy to the workbench of a local craft boutique offers a fascinating look at cultural preservation in action. We discuss how she and her partner Hagop Markarian are reviving the intimate "maker-client" relationship just steps away from Paris’s luxury giants, the vital role their space plays in highlighting Armenian heritage during turbulent times, and why the city is finally embracing the beauty of a multi-functional space where you can witness a bag being stitched while enjoying your espresso.Mentioned in this episode:Marianna StepanianParamazAstrig Agopian exhibition at Paramaz Safety for Women Journalists exhibition at UNESCOAudio production & editing: Matthew Jordan⁠Music by Little Glass Men⁠

How does technology play into the paradigm shift the world is experiencing?  I'm joined by digital anthropologist, author, and public speaker Rahaf Harfoush to talk about resilience and how global interconnection means we cannot speak about the future of France without considering the impact of decisions made much further afield, by other nations. We discuss geopolitical shifts and innovation in France amid global disruptions, and how cultural values must shape our response to crises and technological evolution. What does the future of France look like? Listen to find out. Mentioned in this episode: Rahaf Harfoush@Foushy Hypernormalization Emmanuel Grégoire + Station F The French Tech Journal European Unicorn ReportBlack Swan by Nassim Nicholas TalebOn Bullshit Jobs by David Graeber AI 2027 ReportPalantir deal with France Participatory local politics in ParisAudio production & editing: Matthew Jordan⁠Music by Little Glass Men⁠

There is some relief to be shared right now for many Parisians— voters sent Rachida Dati walking and opted for Emmanuel Grégoire, formerly Anne Hidalgo’s first deputy, as the French capital's new mayor. The Socialist party has governed Paris for 25 years and the majority has spoken. But that isn’t the full picture. To give you a sense of what his win means, how many people really turned up to vote, where the finger pointing is being aimed now by major political parties, and what Grégoire plans to do for Paris, I asked political journalist and author Léa Chamboncel. Here's what to know. Mentioned in this episode:Léa Chamboncel Popol Media Emmanuel Grégoire wins Paris mayoral raceFrench elections are still a warning to the left Edouard Philippe’s beard Adrien Quatennens, LFI, domestic violence caseLéa’s new book: à qui profite la lutte? Audio production & editing: Matthew Jordan⁠Music by Little Glass Men⁠

We are nearing the end of an era. Anne Hidalgo, Paris mayor since 2014, will soon be leaving office. And this weekend, we vote on her replacement. In fact, there are elections all over the country. But in Paris, there are changes to how that’s going to go down this year and who is likely to take over. I’m joined by Phineas Rueckert, a Paris-based journalist who covers politics and social issues for The Nation, Jacobin and New Lines Magazine, to unpack what’s at stake, who’s running, why this election is so important, and what legacy Anne Hidalgo leaves behind.Mentioned in this episode:Phineas RueckertPhineas's substack Becoming FrenchLe Monde on Hidalgo's legacyFrance's elections at risk of foreign interferenceFrance's local elections, 2026Elections as a preview for Europe Quentin Deranque, political flashpointLyon as French capital of political violenceSarah Knafo copies MamdaniPhineas's report for The Nation on Sarah Knafo Audio production & editing: Matthew Jordan⁠Music by Little Glass Men⁠

Almost two years ago, I met today’s guest on an art deco journalist jaunt around Greater Paris and have followed her work ever since. Maïa Morgensztern is a French art historian and culture journalist living in London but returns to Paris monthly, usually for an exhibition. Given how much has changed in the art world in the last year, I wanted to get her take on Paris vs London, the historical contexts of both cities in their approaches to culture, and the impact of Brexit on the art world. We talk about government and private funding in the arts, access to cultural institutions, and the class divides that influence who engages with art. You’ll also hear where she likes to go, every time she’s in town. Mentioned in this episode: Maïa MorgenszternMaïa on InstagramLouvre strikes Sackler family museum fundingFondation Cartier Museum upgrades in ParisCarnavalet Museum (free entry)London's free museumsFondation Giacometti Comédie FrançaiseThe Good LifeAudio production & editing: Matthew Jordan⁠Music by Little Glass Men⁠

Nearly 12 years I ago, I became a French citizen. Since then, a lot has changed. Most notably, the criteria for nationality have tightened this year. Given how many more Americans, in particular, are looking to move to France, I thought it was time to dig into the process, how it’s gotten harder and why — at least for everyone except George Clooney— and to do so, I brought on a friend of the show, France 24 journalist, and new French citizen, Charli James.  Mentioned in this episode:Charli James Stricter French requirements, fewer resources: Immigrants face new hurdlesFrance defends decision to grant George Clooney citizenshipLes procédures d'accès à la nationalité française Immigration : polémique sur des tests de français A new civic examination for foreigners wishing to settle in FranceHow France’s far right changed the debate on immigrationIn Brussels, the far right can no longer be ignoredAudio production & editing: Matthew Jordan⁠Music by Little Glass Men⁠

Whether you have children or not, chances are you’ve heard that France’s childcare system is among the best in Europe, both in terms of public and private options. There’s the crèche, subsidized daycare, shared nannies, au pairs, and full-time Nannies who make, or should anyway, a living commensurate with their experience and hours worked. Since more and more foreigners are moving to Paris with children or with the intention of having children, it’s important to understand the landscape. I happen to know someone who works in this world and wanted to get her story, her views on child rearing in Paris specifically, the options that exist, the dark side of the business, and how it all compares with the UK and Germany, where she has both lived and worked. Meet Lise Scott. Mentioned in this episode: Lise ScottNorland nannies French nursery (crèche) shortageParis childcare optionsOptions and unequal accessAudio production & editing: Matthew Jordan⁠Music by Little Glass Men⁠

To kick off season 10 a few days into a year that’s already turbulent, I thought I’d keep things lighter and more casual with a friend of the show. I crossed town the day after Paris was submerged in snow to chat with Jay Swanson, YouTuber and creator of Paris in My Pocket, about coffee in the city, the cost of things, pearl-clutching newspaper stories, and what we hope for Paris in 2026. Mentioned in this episode:Jay Swanson Paris in my PocketGalette des RoisSubstance Café The Guardian articleAudio production & editing: Matthew Jordan⁠Music by Little Glass Men⁠

In continuing the conversation around the city’s culinary scene, the episode you’ll hear today comes directly from a panel discussion I was part of at The American Library in Paris with two very powerful voices in food that I’m proud to know. I was joined by Carina Soto Velasquez, the co-founder and owner of Quixotic Projects (Candelaria, Le Mary Celeste, and A La Renaissance), and Nora Bouazzouni, a French journalist and author who reports on ethical issues in the industry. We go through the changes in the food scene, some of the ongoing challenges for women, and how violence endures in the kitchen across the country. Thank you to the American Library for allowing me to use the audio and to Rachel Donadio for her thoughtful moderation. Mentioned in this episode: The American Library in Paris talk Want to watch the conversation? It’s on YouTubeThe Eater Guide to ParisCarina Soto Velasquez Nora Bouazzouni "Violences en Cuisine: Une Omerta à la Française"Audio production & editing: Matthew JordanMusic by Little Glass Men⁠

What does it take to run a successful restaurant or several in a city full of them? Josh Fontaine, cofounder of Candelaria, Le Mary Celeste, and the newly opened A La Renaissance, knows something about it. He joins me to talk about what’s changed in the Paris food and beverage scene since COVID, the proliferation of concept-driven restaurants, creating longevity, and some of the details he’s most proud of at his new restaurant.Mentioned in this episode:Joshua Fontaine, Quixotic ProjectsCandelariaLe Mary CelesteA la RenaissanceLutèceMatcha pop-ups Bemelman's Bar Audio production & editing: Matthew Jordan⁠Music by Little Glass Men⁠

Almost a year ago, I launched a series on my newsletter called Leaving America, based on the multitude of reasons Americans opt to leave the country and why many of them, as it happens, end up in Paris. Through this series and my network of creative women in Paris, I’ve connected with so many brilliant Americans who have moved, want to move, or at least understand the desire to. That includes Susanna Schrobsdorff, a former executive editor and columnist for Time Magazine who moved to Paris within the last couple of years. Right off the bat, we started talking together about the feelings tied up in leaving one’s homeland and Paris has done for us, as it has for so many before us. She joins me today to talk about her path to Paris, why it was the right place to settle at this point in her life, and the importance of building community to withstand the toughest of times. Mentioned in this episode: Susanna schrobsdorffOn leaving Brooklyn for ParisSuzy Hansen's Notes on a Foreign CountryThe Blue Hour workshop with Glynnis MacNicol

Paris = luxury fashion, right? Louis Vuitton, Hermès, and Chanel are pillars of France’s soft power and legacy of craftsmanship. And they are among the most counterfeited brands in the world. That's part of what I learned reporting on secondhand luxury and authentication issues for Bloomberg Businessweek. I got to go behind the curtain at Vestiaire Collective, the leading French secondhand platform, to understand the surge in superfakes, how brands are responding to them, and how platforms like Vestiaire have become frontline defenders in this battle for authenticity. Today, I'm joined by Vestiaire's co-founder Fanny Moizant to talk about values, authentication, access, and how our relationship to French savoir-faire is evolving. Most of all, we'll discuss why secondhand no longer carries a stigma. Mentioned in this story: My Bloomberg Businessweek reportVestiaire Collective Fanny Moizant

Today's guest, André Michel, is a Paris insider; the unofficial Mayor of Paris with a deep and varied knowledge of food and culture, and a talent for weaving it all into compelling storytelling and events. The occasional food and travel writer and event organizer joins me to talk about what it means to know Paris, why there’s never been a better or more dynamic time to visit or live in Paris, and what travelers should check out this summer.Mentioned in this episode: André MichelThe Butcher of ParisBruno Verjus / Table Capital in the 21st Century by Thomas PikettyJacques Genin⁠⁠Jade Genin⁠⁠Cheval d'Or Othership NYLa Vasque Olympique Audio production & editing: Matthew Jordan⁠Music by Little Glass Men⁠

Diehard fans of Paris already know there’s never been a shortage of activities to fill one’s intellectual and cultural cup. Art openings, talks and conferences, concerts and performances happen every day of the week. But if you’re interested in learning in a classroom setting without going back to school in the traditional sense, the options dry up. That’s where Off Campus steps in. It’s a two-month-old coffee shop and bookstore launched by two friends that has a special room dedicated to classes for adults. I’m joined by the co-founder Siham Jibril to talk about what sparked the idea, why there’s more interest in continuing education, and which themes resonate most with Parisians. Mentioned in this episode:Off CampusOff Campus on Instagram Bonjour JacobShakespeare & Co Galignani MK2 Bibliothèque Audio production & editing: Matthew Jordan⁠Music by Little Glass Men⁠

My new book is officially on shelves! To celebrate, The Red Wheelbarrow bookstore hosted me for a launch event last week. At the start, I was in conversation about the project (and more) with the legendary New York Times bestselling and James Beard Award–winning cookbook author Dorie Greenspan. This episode is an edited version of that discussion. Mentioned in this episode: The Eater Guide to ParisDorie Greenspan Julien Pham / Phamily First Kubri / Rita HigginsAudio production & editing: Matthew Jordan⁠Music by Little Glass Men⁠

In the canon of Paris narratives, few focus on oddball finds and secrets lurking right beneath our noses. But Vanessa Grall, more commonly known and Messy Nessy, has made it her calling card. For more than a decade she has sussed out offbeat tales and fascinating individuals who have shaped our world and published several guidebooks to help travelers get beyond the obvious. More than a year ago, she opened a storefront, Messy Nessy’s Cabinet, a shop full of curiosities she joins me to talk about today. Mentioned in this episode:Messy Nessy Chic Messy Nessy's CabinetBottled Seine water Suzanne ValadonDon't Be a Tourist guidesMessy Nessy Instagram Audio production & editing: Matthew Jordan⁠Music by Little Glass Men⁠

So far, the year in Paris has been bright — at least in a cultural sense. The Louvre Museum is leading the charge with its very first full-fledged fashion exhibition in its 232-year history. To talk about why it’s significant, what visitors can expect, and the cultural context surrounding the pieces on display is Amy Verner, a fashion journalist and longtime Paris resident who has likely spent more time pondering the works inside the Louvre than all of my listeners combined. Mentioned in this episode:Amy VernerLouvre CoutureOlivier GabetLouvre renovation plan Elaine Sciolino's new book "Adventures in the Louvre"

Like many people living in France, I took a break from alcohol during the imported milestone of Dry January. But we’re in February, and two wine fairs have brought wine lovers and wine pros to the city for talks, tastings, and buying. Wine consumption has been dropping steadily in France, and sales have declined since the 1970s. So what’s happening here? How are people drinking? Are they drinking? What’s the status of natural wine today? Where should people go to drink well in Paris if they’re going to do so? I'm joined by Alicia Dorey, a wine journalist who writes regularly for Le Figaro, to talk about the ins and outs of wine consumption.Mentioned in this episode: Alicia DoreyAlicia's book A Nos Ivresses Austrian wine pop-up in ParisLes Caves LegrandVivant and DéviantAugustin Marchand d'Vins Audio production & editing: Matthew Jordan⁠Music by Little Glass Men⁠

A quick one from me to kickoff season 9 and share some fun news: I have a new book coming out this spring!The Eater Guide to Paris hits shelves on April 29 in the U.S. /Australia/Europe and on May 8 in the U.K., wherever books are sold. A few links below to pre-order now:Abrams (publisher)Bookshop.orgBarnes & NobleAmazon (U.S.)Shakespeare & CoWaterstonesIndigo BooksBooktopia (Australia)Audio production & editing: Matthew Jordan⁠Music by Little Glass Men⁠

I'm recording new episodes for season 9 (coming soon!) but I wanted to bring back some of the most appreciated episodes of the show in the meantime. I originally recorded this episode with Comice co-owner and sommelière Etheliya Hananova in March 2022, and it ranks among the most listened-to since I first started recording in 2017. She talks about the journey from Montreal to Paris, the type of dining environment she and her husband, Comice's chef, Noam set out to create, and what it means to be working in wine in Paris on her terms. Book a table at Comice Follow Comice on Instagram

This month is my 18th December living in Paris, and as I reflect on that time, I’m struck by how much the city still enchants and surprises me. It might be a buzzy neighborhood, a refurbished historical marvel like Notre Dame, a dining experience, or something more unexpected. Someone in the business of sussing out and building such experiences, including some I have attended, is today’s guest Catherine Down. She’s a food writer and travel and event consultant who joins to talk about the most surprising spaces and experiences in Paris, what she finds so meaningful about the city after 12 years as a resident and what she recommends if you’re coming to town this month.  Mentioned in this episode: Catherine Down Catherine's newsletter Catherine on Instagram Modern Love NYT essay Caractère de Cochon Le Marché Saint Germain Ice Skating at the Grand Palais  Café Mirabelle Le Doyenné  Repaire de Cartouche  Le Baron Rouge  Le Bon Marché  Audio production & editing: Matthew Jordan ⁠Music by Little Glass Men⁠

In times of turmoil, we naturally seek sources of calm. And in Paris, perhaps nothing that recenters Parisians more than the Seine. The city’s most iconic waterway has shaped its mythology long before there were tourist boats and selfie-taking travelers. Today, the significance of the Seine is front and center again, thanks to the Olympics and a billion-euro cleanup project. To talk about this, I’m joined by my friend and fellow journalist Mary Winston Nicklin, who reported National Geographic’s cover story on the Seine earlier this year. Mentioned in this episode: ⁠Mary Winston Nicklin⁠ ⁠National Geographic Cover Story (Online edition)⁠ The ancient goddess of the Seine River: Sequana ⁠The Man Who Swam the Seine⁠ (GQ) Audio production & editing: Matthew Jordan ⁠⁠Music by Little Glass Men⁠⁠

Did you know that Arabic is the second most spoken language in France? However, the way it is perceived and taught has led many Arabic speakers in France to either abandon the language or not pass it down to their children. It’s this particular experience that the journalist Nabil Wakim sought to investigate in his documentary for France 2, Mauvaise Langue. He joins the show to talk about the project, what has been done, or not done, politically to boost Arabic instruction and France’s relationship with the Arabic language. Mentioned in this episode: Nabil Wakim, Le Monde L’Arabe pour Tous book Mauvaise Langue documentary Najat Vallaud-Belkacem, former minister of education under François Hollande Audio production & editing: Matthew Jordan ⁠Music by Little Glass Men⁠

It’s been several months since the President threw us into a mess by calling a snap election and in early September, months overdue, Macron finally named a prime minister. What does his choice mean for the country, and what does it signal to voters who cast their ballots for the left coalition? I speak with Alexander Hurst, a writer and columnist for The Guardian whose recent op-ed looks into what went wrong and what issues the new government inherits.  Mentioned or featured in this episode: Alexander Hurst French politics analogy in the Guardian op-ed Alexander's op-ed column for The Guardian French debt French taxes Audio production & editing: Matthew Jordan ⁠Music by Little Glass Men

After enduring nearly a year of pandemic-related isolation and a punishing lack of human touch, author Glynnis MacNicol boarded a plane for Paris in August, 2021 to sublet a friend’s apartment for the month. She was 47 years old and on a mission—100% enjoyment. An exploration of pleasure. Close contact. Her memoir about this time, called I’m Mostly Here to Enjoy Myself, came out a few months ago and I was delighted to interview her in Paris last week at The Red Wheelbarrow bookstore. This episode is a recording of that conversation. Mentioned in this episode: Glynnic MacNicol Order "I'm Mostly Here to Enjoy Myself" Glynnis's New York Times Op-ed Glynnis on CBS Morning

It’s the end of summer holidays, the city is slowly filling up again and that means, novelty is upon us. I associate this time with new restaurant openings, events, and even pop-ups that will carry us to the end of the year. It’s a return to life. One person who is full of life, with plenty of creative ideas to usher in a new season, is Fanny Boucher. She’s the creator of the jewelry brand Bangla Begum and she joins the show to talk about moving to Paris after high school, becoming an entrepreneur, and developing her personal style while living in Jaipur for nearly a decade.  Mentioned in this episode: ⁠Fanny Boucher⁠ ⁠Bangla Begum⁠ ⁠Visit the atelier⁠ Audio production & editing: Matthew Jordan ⁠Music by Little Glass Men

After years of planning and a solid 7 months of Parisian complaining, the Olympics are here! Over their history, they have put some tourist destinations on the map, attempted to build unity, and accelerated social and infrastructural change in host cities. Of course, not everyone benefits, and the legacy of the Olympics, including the impact on tourism, is fraught. To discuss both Paris 2024 and the broader issue of tourism, the good, the bad, and the complicated, I'm joined by Paige Mclanahan, a fellow travel journalist and the author of the new book The New Tourist: Waking Up to the Power and Perils of Travel. Mentioned in this episode: Paige McClanahan's work Paige on Instagram The Better Travel Podcast Buy Paige's Book The Case Against Travel essay Copenhagen Rewards Tourists for Good Behavior Audio production & editing: Matthew Jordan ⁠Music by Little Glass Men⁠

In the last episode, you heard me talk to Katy Lee about the snap elections in France. Why they happened, what they mean, and what party was predicted to perform well in the first round. Now, the day before the second round and not only has everything we discussed come to pass, but the stakes are even higher now. Let's go through the results of the first round, what they mean, and why the far right really does present the same danger it always has for democracy in France. Mentioned in this episode: Episode 133 with Katy Lee Rym Momtaz on CNN Eric Fassin on France 24 1930s Germany French scientist op-ed in Le Monde Lauren Collins' newsletter Audio production & editing: Matthew Jordan ⁠⁠Music by Little Glass Men⁠

(This episode was recorded on June 14) There's a lot to unpack following President Macron’s decision to dissolve the lower house of parliament and call snap elections for the end of June and there is no one better to dive in with me than journalist and podcaster Katy Lee. We discuss the role of these elections, what Macron’s move means for the country, and the political alliances that have formed in record-breaking time. Is there reason to remain hopeful? Have a listen and find out.  Mentioned in this episode: Katy Lee of The Europeans podcast Katy Lee's Twitter (X) thread The Europeans episode on the European Elections Audio production & editing: Matthew Jordan ⁠Music by Little Glass Men⁠

There’s something about leaving Paris, even briefly, and returning that makes all of its idiosyncrasies and charms all the more compelling and obvious. And sometimes, it takes talking with someone who is a particularly keen observer of daily life to highlight these elements even further. Seb Emina, today’s guest, is one such example. The writer and former editor of The Happy Reader joins the show to talk about moving from London to Paris, the essence of the Parisian experience, and how he feels about the city hosting the Olympic Games.    Mentioned in this episode: Seb Emina Seb’s Substack: Read Me   The Happy Reader The Gentlewoman Le Musée des Arts Forains  Five Radio Stations Audio production & editing: Matthew Jordan ⁠Music by Little Glass Men⁠

As much as the Paris food scene has grown increasingly international and casual, fine dining establishments continue to soar. They’ve had to modernize their menus and their approaches to service to stay relevant, but the tasting menu and Michelin-starred experience continues to thrive. However, the way to do that while also opening up the experience to more people who can’t necessarily afford a Michelin meal is by expanding the offering in new ways. Few have done that better than La Tour d’Argent. Find out why and how! Mentioned in this episode: La Tour d'Argent Ratatouille restaurant Thierry Boeuf on La Tour Audio production & editing: Matthew Jordan ⁠Music by Little Glass Men⁠

When it comes to artistic endeavors, Paris shines bright as a historically welcome place to pursue them. The city that gave us the Louvre and some of the finest galleries in the world is full of creative talent or, at the very least, creative inspiration. But how it feels living and working as an artist in Paris is an altogether different story. Today’s guest trained as an architect but has been working as an illustrator and painter for several years and has a unique viewpoint on the arts. Guillaume Sardin has exhibited his work in Southeast Asia, South Africa, and throughout Europe, created works for French icons like Ruinart and Le Bristol, and talks today about how cultural preservation needs to be a bipartisan ambition.  Mentioned in this episode: Guillaume Sardin (website and Instagram) Nantes School of Architecture Créolization & Edouard Glissant French ministry of culture history Pierre Paulin room at the Elysée Palace Aya Nakamura and the Olympics Rachida Dati as Cultural Minister Stendhal's Syndrome Château d'Écouen- Renaissance Museum Château de Maisons Villa Savoye Château Rosa Bonheur Malmaison & Josephine Palais de la Porte Dorée History of Immigration Museum André and Ivana Lemaître Audio production & editing: Matthew Jordan Music by Little Glass Men

Running a business in Paris is a dream for some, a hardship for others. But for today’s guest, Jane Bertch, it has been a variety of things including life changing. 15 years ago she confounded La Cuisine Paris, a French cooking school that is still going strong. She talks about the journey to Paris and running a cooking school in her book: The French Ingredient: Making a Life in Paris One Lesson at a Time which hits shelves April 9. Our conversation covers the Jane from Chicago to the Jane of Paris, starting and running a business, lessons from locals, and writing a memoir.  Mentioned in this episode: Episode 9 with Jane Bertch Jane's book: The French Ingredient La Cuisine Paris cooking classes La Cuisine Paris on Instagram Jane Bertch on Instagram

There’s nothing like leaving Paris for a short time to reset perspectives. I’ve recently returned from 10 days in New York and the Philadelphia region and I was struck by how worn and behind both destinations felt. Part of that is lingering socio-economic impact of the pandemic, and part of it may be insufficient funds devoted to much-needed improvements to public services and transportation. It only served to amplify how good we have it in Paris where major infrastructural investment and urban rehabilitation policies have shaped the city. To talk about this, I'm joined by my friend Brent Longley, an urbanist who moved to Paris a year ago with fervent support for Mayor Hidalgo and her transformative policies. We discuss Paris as a global leader in urban transformation, the opposition that still exists to some of the changes underway, and where the Olympics fits into the equation of a sustainable metropolis.  Mentioned in this episode: Brent Longley, urbanist The Tryphena Project, Brent's newsletter Infill architecture Paris 2024 Olympic Games Audio production & editing: Matthew Jordan ⁠Music by Little Glass Men

Paris has always been a refuge for foreigners. For a lifetime for some, for a chapter of their lives for others. One of my very best friends in Paris was drawn to many of the qualities that I’ve described on the show over the years (and in The New Paris book) and falls into one of those categories. Like me, she’s been an avid storyteller and reporter covering the many ways that old meets new in the city and how it’s changed over the years. But now, she’s gearing up to leave which is exciting for her and sad for those who love her here. It seemed like the right time to have her on the show to talk about that particular Paris experience, and all of the things she’s seen change in the almost decade that she's lived here. And we made it nearly to the end without tears! Mentioned in this episode: Sara Lieberman Sara's newsletter Overthinking It Sara on Instagram Sara's GQ story on Mayor Hidalgo's swimmer son Hire Sara! Audio production & editing: Matthew Jordan ⁠⁠Music by Little Glass Men⁠

Welcome to the end of 2023! Let's take a look back at the challenging, protest-heavy, crisis-generating year in Paris and beyond, with a few thoughts for 2024. Bonnes fêtes et bonne année! Season 8 will begin in the second half of January. Buy my book: The New Paris Buy my book: The New Parisienne Follow me on social: @LindseyTramuta Follow the show: @TheNewParisPodcast Audio production & editing: Matthew Jordan Music by Little Glass Men

Paris has a long legacy not merely as a world capital of culture but as a literary capital. Some of the world’s greatest writers and thinkers have created some of their best work in or about Paris and found homes for it in bookstores, to be sure, but also libraries. Two years ago I interviewed the bestselling author Janet Skeslien Charles on this show about her novel The Paris Library (Episode 74) but today I’m excited to be joined by the executive director of The American Library in Paris Audrey Chapuis, someone I’ve had the great pleasure of collaborating with over the years as I’ve spoken at the library about my own work and moderated discussions for other authors. This fall, we were among the inaugural speakers at the Angers English language Literary Festival and Audrey spoke at length. In this conversation, we talk about her library path, bookish culture in Paris, the role that libraries play in the world and the role that this library has played since 1920, and much more. Mentioned in this episode: Audrey Chapuis The American Library in Paris Become a member Make a donation Proust and the Squid Sara Georgini Viet Thanh Nguyen Hala Alyan Kirstin Chen and Grace Ly in conversation On the Road events The BNF Galignani Bookstore Joan by Katherine Chen The Curse of the Marquis de Sade by Joel Warner Audio production & editing: Matthew Jordan ⁠⁠Music by Little Glass Men⁠

It’s the week of thanksgiving and that seems like an appropriate time to bring back an American friend. Amanda Bankert is a previous guest of this show (episode 8!) and the owner and pastry chef behind Boneshaker, the only donut shop in Paris worth your time, money, and sweet tooth. She’s also just released her first book in English called Voilà Vegan. We talk about how she got into baking, becoming vegan, how easy it is to find veggie or vegan food in Paris these days, and why all of this fits into evolving tastes in the food capital. Mentioned in this episode: Boneshaker Donuts & Coffee Boneshaker on Instagram Buy Voila Vegan Jah Jah Faubourg Daimant Plan D  VG Pâtisserie  Land & Monkeys  Tekés Le Petit Monstre, Brooklyn The Southern V, Nashville  Chambelland (gluten-free bakery) Audio production & editing: Matthew Jordan ⁠⁠Music by Little Glass Men⁠

I have been waiting to talk about the new book by today’s guest for years. Actually, since I met him some 7 years ago when he was already hard at work researching it. Jon Bonné has worked as a journalist for three decades and currently serves as the managing editor at RESY. He is, particularly for wine lovers, best known for his wine reporting and two essential wine books :The New California Wine and The New Wine Rules, which has sold more than 50,000 copies and has been adapted into numerous languages. But his latest, The New French Wine, which came out earlier this year, is his most deeply researched, chef d’oeuvre that tells the groundbreaking tale of the world's greatest wine culture at a moment of profound change. What follows was recorded several weeks ago when I had the great honor of leading a discussion with Jon about this immense project at The American Library in Paris.  Mentioned in this episode: The New French Wine Jon Bonné (On Instagram) Resy New York Times/Eric Asimov review of the book *Watch my conversation with Jon on YouTube Audio production & editing: Matthew Jordan ⁠⁠Music by Little Glass Men⁠

If you spend any amount of time on social media, chances are good you’ve come across the very viral videos of today’s guest. Cécilia Jourdan is a language teacher, content creator and entrepreneur who started Hello French in 2020 with an Instagram account that has since become a full blown business. She joins me today to talk about her trajectory from Paris to New York and in between, building a linguistic career, and what words and ideas seem to cut through the noise most on social media.  Mentioned in this episode: Hello French NYC Hello French on Instagram & TikTok The most viral video (on parenting) on Hello French Cécilia Jourdan in Le Monde

In the previous episode, you heard from four incredibly smart people invested in both raising awareness and pushing for change when it comes to the fashion industry as a whole. But what practical steps are needed? In this episode, I'm joined again by Aja Barber, Khémäis Ben Lakhdar, and Esha Chhabra to talk about accountability, transparency, decolonization, brands that are doing things right, and slowing down our own consumption as a means to extract ourselves from the performative cycle of fashion. Guests Aja Barber, activist, consultant and author of Consumed  Khémaïs Ben Lakhdar, fashion historian, lecturer, & PhD candidate at Paris-1 La Sorbonne Esha Chhabra, journalist and author of Working to Restore Mentioned in this episode Vogue Business Story on Post-Purchase Technology The Ugly History of Beautiful Things book Decolonizing Fashion Veja Nisolo Terra Thread Grace Wales Bonner Jamini  Habile  Nona Source About a Worker Special thanks to Matthew Jordan for producing and editing this episode.

(Special two-part episode!) Every season, all eyes are on the Parisian runways as onlookers try to get a peak at what big and disruptive trends await for the following year. But few know about the history of how this industry came to be, the role of colonialism in its development, and how the industry upholds many of the same ideas and practices today. As you will discover, the legacy of colonialism lives on within the fashion industry, and not only in France. You’re going to hear from a fashion historian, environmental journalists, and activists over the course of the next two episodes who will help me unpack the darker side to la mode, why it’s crucial to amend old ways and correct for generations of unethical labor and overproduction, and what the idea of decolonizing fashion really means. GUESTS Aja Barber, activist and author of Consumed  Khémaïs Ben Lakhdar, fashion historian, lecturer, & PhD candidate at Paris-1 La Sorbonne Esha Chhabra, journalist and author of Working to Restore Catherine Dauriac, President of Fashion REvolution France  SOURCES The King of Couture: The Atlantic The Empire of Fashion and the Rise of Capitalism in 18th century France (William H. Sewell) Colonialism's Clothing (Victoria L. Rovine) Aja on Al Jazeera Tiffanie Darke's Substack "It's Not Sustainable"  Clothing landfills in Ghana's textile market Waste Colonialism Special thanks to Matthew Jordan for producing and editing this episode.

It’s la rentrée! I’m back to my usual home studio and routine which means I’m ready to kick off the fall, and the end of season 7, with some fresh conversations. Let’s kick off September with a friend, entrepreneur and previous guest of this show, Jay Swanson. We’re going to talk about his new project, Paris in My Pocket, Paris news, and what you really need to know if you’re coming to the city this fall.  Mentioned in this episode: Jay Swanson on YouTube Jay Swanson on Instagram Paris in My Pocket Ajiri Aki episode Rugby World Cup The end of e-scooters Chulita (tortas) Thank you to Matthew Jordan for producing and editing this episode.