Meditative Story Asking for what we need, by Kathryn Nicolai
Aug 26, 2025
Kathryn Nicolai, creator of the Nothing Much Happens podcast, shares her journey of self-discovery during a transformative year in Italy. She reflects on childhood lessons of self-sacrifice and the struggle to voice her own needs. Faced with challenges from a neglectful host family, she learns that it’s okay to take up space and assert herself. Kathryn emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance and nurturing connections through awareness, ultimately guiding listeners to embrace their true selves and prioritize personal fulfillment.
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Growing Up Small To Avoid Trouble
- Kathryn describes her confirmation at age 12 and how she learned to pretend everything was fine to avoid causing trouble.
- She says being the
Host Family Abuse In Italy
- At 16 Kathryn goes to Salerno for an exchange and ends up with a host family that treats her like a financial burden.
- Their restrictions and cruelty push her to hide needs, become depressed, and fear for her safety.
A Frightening Night Drive
- One night the host mother drives erratically and drags Kathryn to the father's workplace while distraught and crying.
- This episode makes Kathryn realize the family is unwell and that she is unsafe there.
