Episode 46: Now That We Think About Belonging with Tessa Ferrer

Our conversation kicks off with our dear friend, actress Tessa Ferrer, who shares her transformative experiences in Nelson County, Virginia, where she feels a profound sense of belonging while tending to her land. This contrasts sharply with her life in Los Angeles, where she and Alice live, and where they can often feel like outsiders in our respective artistic communities.Tessa asks whether social status affects our sense of belonging, a question that allowed us to truly look into our personal experience for an honest answer.Allison reflects on her childhood in a small town, where she often felt like an observer rather than a participant. She highlights how attending the Northern Westchester Center for the Arts helped her connect with other “misfit kids,” providing a sanctuary of belonging during her formative years. This perspective resonates with many listeners who may have experienced similar feelings of isolation in their youth.We also touch on the idea that belonging is not about fitting in everywhere but rather finding your unique community. Tessa shares her experiences in spaces like 12-step programs, where judgment can exist, yet she still finds a sense of belonging. This raises an important question: can we belong in spaces where criticism is present?Support the show by using our affiliate links!Force of Nature, Planet Friendly, Toxic-free Cleaning*Our Bookshop Store*Follow us Alice Carbone Tench & Allison Larkin If you love this podcast, please leave us a review and tell your friends about it and listen here: Apple Podcasts This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nowthatwethinkaboutit.substack.com