What does it mean to belong when your life has crossed continents, cultures, and expectations?

In this reflective episode, Lan shares her journey of migration from China to the U.S., the shaping of her values across languages and geographies, and how her understanding of community has shifted over time. We talk about caring for aging parents, letting go of inherited expectations, and learning to center your own needs without guilt.

This episode is a meditation on transitions, chosen values, and the slow, intentional work of becoming yourself on your own terms.

Guest: Lan Guo

Episode Overview

00:00 Introduction to Tea and Transitions

00:19 Sipping on Stories: The Power of Tea

01:32 Exploring the Concept of Belonging

02:18 Personal Stories of Belonging

03:37 Navigating Relationships and Belonging

07:09 Guest Introduction: Meet Lan

07:57 Icebreaker Game

14:40 Discussing Community and Values

27:01 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Show Notes

Lan Guo grew up in Tianjin, China. After graduating from high school, she moved to the US with her parents. She spent 4 years in New York state for college, then 2 years in Georgia for grad school. Her first job took her to Pennsylvania in 2007. A few job switches later, in 2015 she moved to the Bay Area in California with her husband to take on a new career opportunity in tech. All the transitions so far gave her many chances to try new strategies in navigating through changes. She loves watching people, listening to their stories, and making sense of things.