In this Family Room Podcast episode, meet Nick Summa - a licensed marriage and family therapist, counselor educator, and a firm believer in systems thinking. Born and raised in a small town of Pennsylvania, Nick shares insights into his warm yet isolated upbringing and his continuous journey for something 'bigger'. He elaborates on how his perception of 'family' formed over the years, leading him to see 'family' as an intimate network that is always by your side, through good times or bad. Moving past his roots to explore the world, Nick brushed his professional life with diverse roles that evoke learning and personal growth. From being a kindergarten teacher in Japan to becoming a university adjunct faculty, Nick always sought avenues to facilitate learning, mentor students, and contribute positively to others' lives. This penchant for learning and teaching has been a guiding force behind the inception of the Family Room Podcast. Revealing his affection for his profession, Nick gives us a snapshot of how the global pandemic pushed him to find innovative ways to connect and share knowledge, from relying on podcasts for information to eventually starting one of his own. The episode further delves into the milestones of his personal life - his wedding being a prominent highlight that added more meaning and depth to his life. This episode is a heartwarming testimony to a life lived in pursuit of growth, connection, and an understanding of the dynamics that shape and form the concept of 'family'. A thread running throughout this episode is Nick's inherent curiosity, grit and desire to continually learn and grow - qualities that make him a compelling podcaster and an engaging storyteller. Listen in for an intimate and thought-provoking conversation that is celebrated with warm anecdotes, self-reflection, and a personal introduction to the heart behind the Family Room Podcast.