It’s the day after Thanksgiving, and I’m still smiling from yesterday — the food, the laughter, the football, and the simple joy of making memories. In this episode, I reflect on what it means to immerse yourself in the things Americans love, even when those traditions weren’t part of the world you came from.

I share my own journey: from working holidays for time-and-a-half, to slowly learning that building community, enjoying a good game of football, baking with my son, and creating new traditions can be just as meaningful as the ones we grew up with. You’ll hear how working only with fellow immigrants shaped the advice I received early on — things like “don’t invest,” “don’t stay,” “don’t buy a house” — and how stepping into more diverse spaces opened my eyes to opportunities I wish I had known sooner.

Football was never part of my life growing up in Zambia, yet here I am, a proud Baltimore Ravens fan. And yes — I finally understand the love for Lamar Jackson! I also share why Thanksgiving holds a special place in my heart, especially the baking, which connects me deeply to memories of my mother.

I touch in  the money conversations people keep asking me for (that needs its own series!), the joy of building a village, and why I’m now committed to sharing books by Black American authors so we better understand the shoulders we stand on.

Yes, Thanksgiving is complicated. And football isn’t the only way to immerse yourself in American culture. But for me, these two have become beautiful entry points into belonging, connection, and gratitude.

A reminder that there are countless ways to immerse yourself in your new home while honoring the one you came from.