Ep #53 Jiffer Bourguignon on the Discomfort of Belonging

This week, I sit down with my dear friend from college, Jiffer Bourguignon, for a heartfelt and hilarious conversation about life, discomfort, and the unexpected ways we find connection.

Jiff shares what it’s been like living as an American expat in Germany for decades—navigating cultural nuances, language mishaps, and the kind of miscommunications that are so awkward, they’re funny.

Jiffer talks about serving as an election observer in Afghanistan, and how she found an unlikely bridge to local communities: food. By stepping into kitchens and learning traditional dishes, she forged deep relationships in a place where connection wasn’t always easy.

We also dive into some real talk—her challenges raising three teenagers, the rollercoaster of perimenopause, and all the messy, beautiful moments in between.

Join us for a conversation about discomfort that’s equal parts funny, insightful, and deeply human.