Let’s showcase the real U.S.!

Because the real U.S. deserves to be spot on.

Hi, I’m Léa — a French girl who moved to the U.S. a little over a year ago and fell in love with this country.

But the truth is...

I didn’t just arrive with two giant suitcases — I also carried a backpack full of clichés about the U.S.

But very quickly, I realized: I was wrong.

This country is full of beauty, resilience, and incredible people — far beyond what we see on TV.

Feeling the urge to share that side of the story — the one nobody seemed to tell — I started posting on Instagram.

Raw, unfiltered, real life in America.

At first, just for fun. But in 5 months… over 15,000 people joined the journey.

Turns out, the real U.S. is what people crave. And honestly? So do I.

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Now, it’s time to take it to the next level.

I’m embarking on a one-month solo road trip across the South and Midwest — to capture the hidden gems, the everyday heroes, the small towns that built this country.

Because the real America deserves to be seen.

Because I wish I had seen this version before moving.

Because it’s beautiful, raw, and real — and people need to know it exists.

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My mission:

- Tell authentic stories

- Highlight unknown places

- Create powerful content through photos, videos, and storytelling

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Why this fundraiser?

I’ve estimated the total cost of this one-month solo road trip at around $5k — covering the rental car, gas, lodging, food, insurance, and the basic tools I need to create and share content all along the way.

Your support will help me make this journey independent and honest, without needing to rely on sponsors who don’t share the same values or vision.

That said, I’m also open to collaborations that align with the project — especially if they can help reduce the cost of the trip (lodging, gear, local services, etc). If you have something to offer or want to contribute in a different way, feel free to reach out at https://www.instagram.com/leanotfromparis/.

Every contribution — big or small, financial or practical — brings this project to life.

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As a thank you:

This trip is deeply personal — and I want you to feel part of it, not just as a follower, but as someone on the journey with me.

That’s why, for every contribution, I’ve prepared small, meaningful ways to thank you:

$10+ – Supporter

• Your name added to a special “Thank You” Highlight on Instagram

• Access to my private Telegram group, where I’ll share exclusive photos, voice notes, and behind-the-scenes moments from the road

$35+ – Snapshot Crew

• All of the above

• A personalized photo from the road, sent to you by email or DM — with a little note or story behind it

$75+ – Postcard Crew

• All of the above

• A handwritten postcard, sent from somewhere along the road (U.S. only — limited to the first 30 supporters)

$100+ – Legacy Supporter

• All of the above

• Your name featured in the Thank You section of the book I’ll write after the trip

$150+ – Book Crew

• All of the above

• A free digital copy of the book once it’s ready (PDF or ePub)

$250+ – Collector’s Edition

• All of the above

• A signed physical copy of the book, mailed to you with a personal note (limited to 20 spots)

These are the rewards I plan to offer — and they may evolve a little depending on the journey. But what’s certain is: if you support this project, you’ll receive something heartfelt in return. You’ll be part of it!

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Thank you for believing in this crazy, beautiful dream.

Let’s showcase the real America together!

See you on the road

Léa