Identity Library

Picture this: You’re sitting around a warm kitchen table in China, where the rich aroma of fresh dumplings fills the air, and your grandmother's hands, weathered with years of tradition, expertly fold the dough. The room buzzes with soft laughter, and each dumpling she creates is a piece of history, wrapped in dough and steeped in memory.

In this episode, I sit down with Mingduo, a recent NC State graduate originally from China and shaped by his experiences in Hong Kong. Mingduo shares how his cultural background, combined with his love for creative writing, has influenced his storytelling. His short story "Dumplings", published in NC State’s literary magazine, beautifully captures the intersection of family, identity, and cultural heritage.

We also discuss Mingduo’s journey as an international student, navigating the balance between pursuing a career in literature and the practicality of life ahead, as well as his admiration for role models like Andy Lau. Mingduo’s path toward library science shows how creative passion can evolve into a grounded, meaningful career.

If you’ve ever found yourself questioning whether you should pursue a career in creative writing, or if you’ve been torn between following your passion or taking a more traditional path, this episode is for you. Mingduo's journey reminds us that passion and practicality can coexist, and the pursuit of creativity is never a waste. Whether you're traveling, taking a quiet moment, or simply looking for inspiration, I hope this episode encourages you to chase what sets your soul on fire, no matter where that journey takes you.

What happens when you venture deep into the Everglades, armed with nothing but curiosity, a love for nature, and a resilient spirit? For Josie Houchard, it marked the start of an adventure that would change her life.

In this episode, Josie takes us on a journey through wetlands, rivers, and the winding paths of self-discovery. From growing up as the youngest in a bustling North Carolina family to finding her calling in the lush Everglades, her story is one of grit, humor, and an unshakable connection to the environment. Along the way, we explore her dream of reclaiming wetlands and managing stormwater—transforming her passion into purpose.

But the heart of our conversation lies beyond the wetlands. Josie opens up about what it means to find home, not just in a place, but within us. She reflects on the challenges of being an extrovert, balancing her bold personality with the desire for connection, and learning to stay true to who she is despite life’s pressures.

This is more than a story about wetlands; it’s a story about resilience, authenticity, and the courage to take up space in the world. Join us as we wade through the waters of identity, adventure, and the beautiful mess of being human.

In this chapter, I welcome you to "Islamland." Don’t be scared but be aware that the road may be bumpy and probably filled with way too many camel riders. Here’s the question: are you the rider or the actual camel? If this is confusing you, you definitely need to join our new story as we uncover the truth and the key that connects our names to our identity.

What if I told you your name holds the key to your identity? Join me and my dear friend Abdullah Najjar on an enlightening journey through the world of names! In this episode, we dive into the laughter and lessons behind our names and what they reveal about who we are.

After running into Abdullah on campus far too often, we decided it was time to record an episode for my podcast. Abdullah, a Libyan student navigating life in America, shares his wild encounters with cultural misconceptions. We reminisce about these funny stories and reflect on how our names shape perceptions, influence relationships, and carry cultural weight.

Get ready for a captivating discussion filled with humor, heart, and the extraordinary power of names. By the end, you’ll see your own name—and those around you—in a whole new light!

What happens when a random encounter at a café sparks a conversation that unfolds into a captivating story?

Get ready for a compelling episode that’s bound to challenge your perspectives! Join me as I welcome Kian Alberto, whose life story reads like a screenplay of triumph and struggle. From a three-year-old soccer prodigy to navigating the complexities of a multicultural identity, Kian's journey is anything but ordinary.

But that’s just the beginning. As we peel back the layers of Kian's experiences, we delve into a bold critique of academia—does it truly prepare us for the harsh realities of life? With tension brewing between our differing viewpoints, we embark on a philosophical exploration of what happiness really means. Is it found in enduring pain and sacrifice, or is it an internal state of being?

With each twist and turn in our conversation, you’ll find yourself questioning everything you thought you knew about success, self-discovery, and the role of education. Kian’s insights are raw, honest, and at times, provocative forcing us all to confront our own beliefs.

Don’t miss this episode where we navigate the fine line between dreams and reality. Tune in and prepare for an unforgettable discussion that could change how you see your own path of happiness!

Chapter 3 of the Identity Library dives into the experience of relocating and living in a new country. This episode will be especially valuable for those who are currently making or planning an international move, with guest Loridana Fosha sharing her insights and emotions about moving to Spain for the next two years. My hope is that this conversation will assist travelers in finding their footing and achieving inner peace amid the transition.