Episode
Why So Many of Us Feel Like We Don't Belong | Pádraig Ó Tuama
- Podcast
- The Midlife Chrysalis
- Published
- Jun 19, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 3127
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Summary
What does it mean to belong, to yourself, to others, and to a life that's constantly changing? In this powerful conversation, Chip Conley sits down with Irish poet, theologian, and conflict mediator Padraig O Tuama to explore belonging, grief, identity, faith, and the wisdom that comes with midlife. You'll learn: Why belonging isn't always what we think it is How poetry helps us navigate loss and uncertainty Padraig's journey through religion, sexuality, and reparative therapy What turning 40 taught him about mortality and meaning Why love may be life's most important practice Filled with beautiful poetry, profound insights, and heartfelt stories, this episode is a reminder that even in life's most difficult seasons, you belong here. Watch now and let us know: What line or insight stayed with you most? Timestamps: (02:30) Poetry as Cultural Memory (05:19) The Purpose of Poetry (06:41) When Is a Poem Finished? (07:33) Becoming a Poet (10:13) Faith, Sexuality, and Identity (12:37) Exorcisms and Reparative Therapy (19:16) Belonging and Conflict (22:47) How to Be Alone (25:12) Grief, Breathing, and Death (30:16) Sleeping in His Mother's Bed (33:19) Midlife and the Shock of Turning 40 (36:42) Birthday Prayer (39:32) Midlife Awakening and Change (41:36) The Facts of Life (45:11) Love, Death, and Wisdom (47:02) Desire, Lack, and Meaning (48:13) Final Reflections and Closing Learn more about MEA at https://www.meawisdom.com/ #Belonging #Authenticity #Midlife #Poetry #PadraigOTuama #SelfDiscovery #Identity #PersonalGrowth #Grief #LifeLessons #EmotionalHealing #TruthTelling #Purpose #HumanConnection #Wisdom