Discovering Journeys by Sujala Shastry
Sujala contacted me by email in September 2024 and asked if I would be able to talk on her Podcast show. At first I hesitated. Hesitation came from a few reasons. One big reason was that we just moved back to Virginia from Tokyo. Thus, I was not in a state of mind to do anything but sorting things out for our new family life in Virginia. Sujala was kind enough to wait for me to be ready for it. Finally in June 2025, the interview happened thanks to wonderful Sujala.
Prior to recording the interview, I had listened to many of her previous shows in order to study her content, questions and style to prepare for my own talk. I must tell you that you need to go listen to her podcast, Discovering Journeys. Her questions to her interviewees are very insightful and intriguing. The speakers she has found and carefully selected to interview are incredibly interesting to listen to and well spoken. I listened to Discovering Journeys podcast episodes one after another. At the same time, my self-doubt started to creep in. Am I good enough for her interview? Will my stories be interesting enough for the listeners? Would there be people who would be interested in listening to my story?
Getting Over My Insecurity
The biggest challenge for me to try a podcast was to get over my insecurity. Accepting to speak on a podcast was going out of my comfort zone. I have never spoken publicly on a podcast. I gathered my courage and pushed myself to say yes because I wanted to get over the fear and insecurity. I knew that getting over the discomfort would make me stronger. If I ran away from this opportunity, how can I grow from here? If my speaking out about the life as an expat, not just an expat, but as an expat trailing spouse, gives courage and insight to others who may struggle in this lifestyle, it would be my honor. Even though I had some noises in my head, I ignored them and accepted the lovely offer to speak on Discovering Journeys. I’m humbled by the opportunity given to me.
Joy Of Having My Voice
I must admit that I’m not a good story teller. This may not be a great way to promote the Podcast interview that I did, but I’m setting the expectations straight. (Smile) I’d love to hear what you think, though. I have always admired those people who can tell compelling stories by capturing their audience with wit and some punch-lines. One thing I can say to you, however, is that I did feel joy of having found my voice. As I have lived long (half a century now), been married for 26 years, raised 3 kids while living abroad, and moved around many times in my life, I have discovered my voice. Hopefully, many people, especially, current, past and prospective expats resonate with my stories and will feel encouraged to find their own (if they haven’t) as well.
I’m grateful if you listen to my episode. If not mine, I highly encourage you to listen to her other episodes. You won’t be disappointed.
Thank you for following my journey.
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