What does it mean to grow up everywhere … and nowhere at the same time?
In the latest Stories Beyond Borders Podcast episode, Italian Bengali author and host Urmi Hossain sits down with Adult Third Culture Kid (ATCK) and Culturs Executive Editor for Cultural Identity Content John Liang to explore identity, belonging and what it really means to grow up across cultures.
Born in Guatemala to parents of Chinese/Spanish/Irish/Jewish/French descent, Liang shares his family’s story — from his parents’ unexpected love story to his growing up in Guatemala, Costa Rica, the U.S., Panama, Morocco and Egypt. His life is a reflection of constant movement, cultural adaptation and redefining what “home” truly means.
For years, Liang didn’t have the language to describe his experience. He once identified as a “global nomad,” only later discovering the concept of Third Culture Kids and finally finding a sense of understanding and belonging.
Hossain and Liang talk about:
• What it means to be an Adult Third Culture Kid
• Growing up between cultures and identities
• The ease — and complexity — of building connections across cultures
• How storytelling helps us make sense of who we are
• Why the TCK experience can be different for men and women
If you’ve ever felt like you don’t fully belong in one place, this conversation is for you.
Check out the episode below, and learn more about Hossain’s new book, “Discovering Your Identity: A Rebirth From Interracial Struggle” here.
