Finding Home Within: Belonging, Identity, and Community in Playa Dust in My Soul with Sarah Marshall

In Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, hosted by Sayan, author Sarah Marshall explores why belonging isn’t something you “earn” by fitting in—it’s something you practice by showing up and accepting the invitation to be seen.

This episode is for anyone feeling stuck between identities, places, or communities—especially if you’re craving connection without losing yourself. Sarah shares how community can help reshape self-worth, why “home” can be internal, and what it took for her to stop leading with a single label and start engaging as a whole person.

About the Guest:

Sarah Marshall is a San Francisco Bay Area–based writer and author of the newly published novel Playa Dust in My Soul. A longtime world traveler with experience spanning the military, high-tech, and spiritual practice, she writes about belonging, chosen family, and transformation.

Episode Chapter:

• 00:02:50 — Why belonging lives in the “in-between” spaces

• 00:04:34 — Sarah’s earliest memories of feeling outside community

• 00:06:23 — “Carry your home”: belonging as an inner home

• 00:08:22 — The hidden patterns beneath disconnection and distance

• 00:11:06 — The playa as a crucible: intensity, invitation, and choice

• 00:13:12 — “Dust in my soul”: the metaphor that sticks with you

• 00:16:52 — Deserving love: the long work of accepting belonging

Key Takeaways:

• Treat belonging as an active practice: invitation and acceptance both matter.

• Try “embracing the moment” instead of waiting for the perfect place or people.

• Notice where you’re protecting yourself by not accepting connection.

• Experiment with showing up as a whole person, not your loudest label.

• Build self-worth slowly: belonging strengthens when you believe you deserve it.

How to Connect With the Guest:

https://www.playadustinmysoul.com/

Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life? DM on PM - Send me a message on PodMatch DM Me Here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/avik

Disclaimer: This video is for educational and informational purposes only. The views expressed are the personal opinions of the guest and do not reflect the views of the host or Healthy Mind By Avik™️. We do not intend to harm, defame, or discredit any person, organization, brand, product, country, or profession mentioned. All third-party media used remain the property of their respective owners and are used under fair use for informational purposes. By watching, you acknowledge and accept this disclaimer.

Healthy Mind By Avik™️ is a global platform redefining mental health as a necessity, not a luxury. Born during the pandemic, it’s become a sanctuary for healing, growth, and mindful living. Hosted by Avik Chakraborty, storyteller, survivor, and wellness advocate.

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