Author and speechwriter Nancy French discusses her book 'Ghosted: An American Story' with Jonah. They touch on the impact of Trump on the GOP, ostracism, and her battle with cancer. Nancy also talks about uncovering abuse at a Christian camp and transitioning between churches.
Facing racial biases in society due to adopting a child from Ethiopia.
Learning and adapting to cultural challenges in haircare for a child of different ethnicity.
Finding a sense of belonging and acceptance in a diverse church community.
Deep dives
Experiencing Discrimination and Being Confronted with Racial Biases
Nancy French shared the experience of adopting Naomi from Ethiopia and facing discrimination and racial biases in daily life. Taking Naomi out in the neighborhood revealed instances where Naomi was questioned and treated differently due to her race. Nancy's eyes were opened to the reality of racial disparities and racism in society.
Learning to Care for Naomi's Hair and Cultural Awareness
Nancy French embarked on the journey of caring for Naomi's hair, which presented a significant cultural challenge. She learned haircare techniques such as box braiding and detangling through YouTube tutorials. Despite initial challenges and cultural gaps, Nancy's dedication to learning and understanding cultural nuances helped strengthen her bond with Naomi.
Transitioning to a Predominantly Black Church
Nancy and David transitioned to attending a predominantly Black church, seeking a welcoming and inclusive community. The difference in racial dynamics was evident as they encountered a warm and accepting atmosphere. The church's embrace of Naomi, without hesitation, highlighted the sense of belonging and acceptance they found in the African American church community.
Finding Comfort and Support in an Inclusive Environment
The gesture from the African American church, where Naomi was told she belonged there, resonated deeply with Nancy and her family. The environment of inclusivity and acceptance helped them forge a sense of belonging and unity in a community where racial diversity was celebrated. This experience underscored the importance of finding comfort and support in an inclusive and diverse environment.
Insights on Church Diversity
Diversity in church congregation is highlighted as a positive aspect, with the podcast discussing the speaker's experience in a church that is predominantly African American. The speaker emphasizes the benefits of being exposed to different teachings and perspectives on race within a diverse religious community. Through examples like the discussion around the African businessman Nimrod in the Bible, the podcast underscores the importance of diverse representation and learning from varied cultural interpretations.
Navigating Personal Challenges and Support
The podcast delves into the speaker's personal challenges, particularly with a cancer diagnosis, revealing the emotional journey and treatments involved. Despite initial fears and uncertainties, the speaker expresses gratitude for the overwhelming support received from various individuals, including unexpected sources like Trump supporters and liberals. This segment highlights the power of compassion and solidarity in the face of adversity, showcasing how personal struggles can unite people beyond political divides.
Jonah is joined by author, speechwriter, and ghostwriter Nancy French to discuss her new book, Ghosted: An American Story. Nancy tells the tale of how she came to meet the permanent guest host of Advisory Opinions (who is now dead to Jonah), how the Republican Party’s embrace of Donald Trump left her and her family ostracized, and also gives an update on her battle with cancer.
