Kristen Van Nest and Azul Terronez Discuss Writing, Travel, and Living as an Expat
In this episode of the Authors Who Lead podcast, I sit down with Kristen Van Nest. Kristen, a talented comedian, author, and business owner, sheds light on her unique writing process, the cultural nuances of living abroad, and her transition from a corporate career to creative pursuits. This episode dives deep into the intricacies of creativity, the challenges of expatriate life, and the transformative power of travel.
The Myth of Writer’s Block
I open the discussion by challenging the widely believed concept of writer’s block. I contend that writer’s block is a self-imposed obstacle rather than a genuine impediment to creativity. Drawing parallels between writing and other professions such as plumbing and hairdressing, I point out that blockages in these fields are rare. I emphasize the importance of showing up consistently to write, even when the process feels chaotic and difficult. Aspiring writers must separate the phases of writing and editing to prevent stifling their creativity.
Kristen’s Insights on Creative Processes
Kristen Van Nest introduces an interesting viewpoint from a South Korean playwright she encountered. This playwright’s process involves spending mornings in thoughtful contemplation outdoors before starting to write. Kristen believes that such creative freedom can help overcome perceived writer’s block. By allowing imperfect drafts, or “poop drafts,” writers can alleviate the pressure of perfection and let their creativity flow freely.
Kristen’s memoir, “Where to Nest,” is a testament to this creative approach. This engaging and novel-like work reflects her humorous and reflective exploration of belonging and identity.
Experiences as an Expat in Shanghai
Our discussion soon meanders into their shared experiences living in Shanghai. We painted a vivid picture of an expatriate’s life, highlighting unique cultural aspects and community interactions such as with “the avocado lady,” a local vendor known for sourcing hard-to-find avocados. Kristen shares an anecdote about the challenges of finding canned pumpkins in Shanghai, underscoring the significance of the avocado lady as a cultural comfort during the holiday season.
Our conversation also dives into the diverse expat culture in Shanghai. Various nationalities bring their cultural influences, creating a rich, multicultural atmosphere. Kristen reflects on her travels through Asia, noting the unexpected cultural similarities she encountered between China, Japan, and Korea. She also discusses the challenges of language acquisition, sharing personal stories about her initial struggles with Mandarin and the importance of learning the basics to foster deeper connections with locals.
Transition to Creative Pursuits
Kristen’s journey from a managerial role to pursuing creative interests such as stand-up and improv in Shanghai is filled with introspection and discovery. Despite her initial hesitation, Kristen found herself drawn to comedy and other creative outlets. Her transition is partly attributed to a pivotal encounter with Charna Halpern, a notable figure in improv, who provided impromptu training in Shanghai, igniting Kristen’s passion for comedy.
I share a similar experience of transitioning from teaching to becoming a writing coach while living in Shanghai. We emphasize how embracing new cultural norms and experiences abroad propelled their personal and professional development.
Writing Process and Advice
The discussion then takes a turn back to writing, focusing on Kristen’s straightforward approach to her book, “Where to Nest.” She advocates for using simple language to ensure accessibility for non-native English speakers and highlights the importance of writing consistently. Completing her first draft in just four months, she emphasizes the necessity of daily writing to improve her skills. Kristen underscores the value of feedback and collaboration with editors and describes rituals for managing darker writing topics, such as using a candle to compartmentalize emotions.
The Power of Travel and Self-Discovery
Kristen’s travels have profoundly shaped her identity and creative work. Her book reflects themes of belonging and self-discovery, drawing parallels to Elizabeth Gilbert’s “Eat, Pray, Love,” with a millennial twist. Kristen discusses how her experiences abroad allowed her to design her life consciously, merging creativity with business acumen. She contrasts her corporate ambitions with her creative upbringing, ultimately embracing her creative inclinations.
Join us again next week for more captivating insights from influential authors and publishing experts. Remember to subscribe to Authors Who Lead and visit our website for more show notes and past interviews.
That’s all for this week. If you have a message inside of you that needs to be written, today is the day to start. Don’t delay—take action.
Episode Resources
Connect with Kristen here:
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Get a copy of Kristen’s book here:
Where to Nest
