What does it mean to belong when you’ve grown up everywhere—and nowhere—all at once?

In this expansive and deeply resonant conversation, we’re joined by Vicki Abadesco, a visionary entrepreneur, nonprofit leader, speaker, coach, and mentor whose life and work are rooted in personal growth, transformation, and global perspective. Raised across Asia, Europe, and North America, Vicki embodies the lived experience of a Third Culture Kid—someone shaped by many cultures, languages, and worldviews, yet often left navigating questions of identity, home, and belonging.

Vicki is renowned for her unwavering commitment to empowering others to live purposeful, heart-led lives. Through her organization, Soul Shoppe, she and her team have touched the hearts and minds of more than one million elementary school students with a transformative conflict-resolution and peacemaking curriculum. Her work has helped nurture a generation of emotionally intelligent young people—capable of building strong relationships, resolving conflict with compassion, and fostering inclusive, connected communities.

Together, we explore the emotional, psychological, and spiritual terrain of Third Culture journeys—the gifts of adaptability, empathy, and global awareness, alongside the grief, rootlessness, and quiet loneliness that can accompany a life in motion. Vicki shares how growing up between worlds shaped her sense of self, relationships, leadership, and purpose, and how true rootedness doesn’t always come from one place, but from learning how to belong within yourself.

This episode is for anyone who has:

• Grown up internationally or between cultures
• Felt deeply connected yet perpetually out of place
• Learned to read rooms, people, and cultures early in life
• Questioned identity, home, and where they truly belong

It’s a conversation about liminality, resilience, emotional intelligence, and the beauty of living beyond borders—externally and internally.

🔗 Learn more about Vicki and her work:
https://www.vickiabadesco.com

If you’ve ever felt like your roots travel with you, this episode will meet you exactly where you are.

Rooted & Wild provides general information for educational and informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of David Allen Tracy. The content shared on this podcast is not intended to replace individualized medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice, nor should it be used to diagnose or treat any health condition. Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding any medical or mental health concerns.