Nomadic Diaries: Mastering Global Transitions
Where Global Living Transforms Lives
Imagine a life where every border crossed becomes a doorway to personal transformation!
Welcome to Nomadic Diaries, the podcast that turns international adventures into extraordinary personal journeys. We're not just telling travel stories. We're uncovering the raw, unfiltered experiences of expats and global nomads who have transformed uncertainty into opportunity.
Each episode dives deep into the hearts and minds of extraordinary individuals who've turned geographical transitions into powerful paths of self-discovery. Are you an expat feeling lost between worlds? A digital nomad seeking more than just scenic backdrops? This podcast is your compass.
We explore the real-life challenges and insights of international living, sharing genuine stories, practical strategies, and life-changing wisdom from those who've navigated the complex terrain of global mobility.
Nomadic Diaries is more than just a podcast – it's a platform for connection, understanding, and personal growth. We believe that living abroad isn't about collecting stamps in a passport, but about expanding the boundaries of who you can become. Join us as we explore how stepping outside your comfort zone can be the most profound journey of personal growth you'll ever undertake.
Your global adventure starts here – where every mile traveled is a mile of transformation.
Nomadic Diaries: Mastering Global Transitions
Letters Now Sent by Megan Norton-Newbanks
In this heartfelt solo episode, Megan Norton-Newbanks pulls back the curtain on her new book, Letters Now Sent, a collection of letters from over 90 contributors who have experienced life as expats, nomads, and third culture kids (TCKs). Inspired by Ruth Van Ryken's memoir, Letters Never Sent, the project explores themes of belonging, vulnerability, and the emotional tapestry of cross-cultural living.
Key Themes & Highlights
- Origins of the Project:
Megan Norton-Newbanks was inspired by Ruth Van Ryken’s letter-form memoir and wondered how deeply personal reflections from those living cross-culturally could create a shared archive - Emotional Responses to Letter Writing:
Contributors reported tears, laughter, and catharsis as they revisited formative memories. Letters range from humorous moments to deep expressions of grief and gratitude - Who Are the Letters For?
Letters addressed parents, grandparents, children, mentors (including Ruth Van Ryken), and younger selves—showing the diverse impact of globally mobile lives ( - Standout Letters:
- Chris O’Shaughnessy’s letter to his childhood friend highlights empathy and its lasting effects on cross-cultural connection
- Susie Brown, a U.S. Foreign Service mom, writes to her sons about the real challenges and closeness that come from their “vagabond life” (
- What is Belonging?
Megan Norton-Newbanks concludes: belonging isn’t about fitting in, but being seen—especially “in the mess” of global mobility (00:07:02–00:07:34). - Letters as Emotional Yarn:
These aren't tidy stories, but threads handed to the listener—the reality of living between cultures (00:07:18–00:07:34). - Shared Experience:
Despite chaos and change, the book reassures listeners that they’re not alone in their questions and feelings. It’s “messy, lovely, layered, and deeply human” (00:09:24–00:09:31).
Memorable Quotes
- “Belonging isn’t about fitting in, it’s about being seen. Even in the mess.”
- “Sometimes being a part of someone else's story is the most sacred kind of belonging there is.”
Call to Action
Share the episode or the Belonging Project series with expats, nomads, TCKs, or anyone seeking to feel seen in their globally mobile journeys.
Home is Where Your Story Crosses Borders!
We aim to inspire expat solutions, by helping you navigate global living with ease and grace.
