E40: The Ingredients of an Open Mind

In this final episode of Stories That Shaped Me, Avram Gonzales reflects on one of the most influential experiences of his childhood: spending extended time in Belgium with his family. Every couple of years, from early childhood through his mid-teens, Avram lived for weeks at a time immersed in another culture, language, and way of life.

Those trips quietly shaped how he sees the world. Being surrounded by French sparked mental flexibility and curiosity. Experiencing a slower, more communal pace of life showed him the value of connection and presence. Even small moments—learning responsible drinking early, watching neighbors casually gather for hours, or realizing someone learned English simply by watching TV—expanded his understanding of what’s possible beyond the norms he knew back home.

Looking back, Avram sees how this exposure to different people, ideas, and environments helped cultivate an open mind and a balanced perspective that carried into adulthood. It taught him that there are many valid ways to live, connect, and show up in the world.

This episode serves as a reflection and a closing note to the series—a reminder that curiosity, travel, and openness can shape us just as powerfully as any single defining moment. Avram invites listeners to revisit the other stories and reflect on the experiences that shaped them, too.