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In the inaugural episode of Nomadic Diaries, hosts Doreen Cumberford and Megan Norton-Newbanks dive deep into the concept of “belonging” within the context of global mobility, international relocations, and the personal effects of constantly moving across borders.

They explore:

• The connection between cycles of relocation, relational loss, and a sense of belonging.
• The ways globally mobile people, such as Third Culture Kids (TCKs) and expats, interpret, navigate, and sometimes “gatekeep” their own feelings of home and connection.
• The importance of self-awareness, self-care, and self-agency in cultivating belonging wherever life takes you.
• Plans for upcoming episodes, including a broad spectrum of guests - from those who grew up around the globe, to experts and thought leaders in cross-cultural studies and belonging.
• The power of storytelling and dialogue as tools for healing, fostering connection, and building community in an increasingly divided world.

Key Takeaways

• Belonging is Human: At its core, belonging is about being willing to be human with each other, to share stories, and create connection.
• Variety of Perspectives: Future guests will offer diverse voices and experiences, encouraging a multifaceted understanding of what it means to belong.
• Audience Goals: The hosts hope listeners will reflect on their own experiences, feel inspired toward self and collective understanding, and recognize that no one is truly alone.
• Bridging Divides: In a world marked by polarization and loneliness, this series seeks to empower, heal, and bring listeners together through authentic dialogue and shared journeys.

Memorable Quotes

• “If we think about the word belong, it literally means to go with. And so let's go with the interviewees and the listeners together in this project.” — Megan Norton
• “This is the heart of why we are doing this specific podcast.” — Doreen Cumberford

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You can map the move. You cannot map the metamorphosis. Nomadic Diaries explores the interior journey of expat life — the belonging, the identity shifts, the repatriation, and everything that travels with you that can't be packed in a suitcase. This episode may be part of our Re-Entry Series (30 episodes on coming home) or The Belonging Project (29 episodes on belonging across cultures). Browse the full catalog at nomadicdiariespodcast.com and please share or leave a review if this episode resonated.