”I see you, and I’m telling you my story in hopes that you’ll see me. And from there, there’s so many more things that are possible.”

In this conversation, Donna Ferris sits down with singer, songwriter, and pianist Vienna Teng—an artist whose music has long served as a bridge between people, ideas, and lived experiences.

From her iconic song City Hall, inspired by the legalization of same-sex marriage in San Francisco, to her newest work We’ve Got You (released November 2024), Vienna explores how music can hold complexity, invite empathy, and create space for honest conversation—especially in divided times.

Together, Donna and Vienna talk about:

• Writing songs that start conversations, not arguments
• Holding two truths at once in polarized times
• Music as modern-day folk storytelling

Ending with a tender lullaby sung by Vienna, this conversation offers a moment of gentleness, meaning, and hope to close out 2025.

If you would like to learn about Vienna’s music or upcoming concerts, visit viennateng.com.

If you enjoyed this episode, you might want to listen to Episode #68 “Breaking the Trance of Unworthiness” or Episode #60 “How to Cope in a Changing World” with Sharon Salzberg. Also, please consider subscribing to this podcast, leaving a review, and sharing it with others. Thank you.

If you would like to join Donna’s free weekly centering group, email donna@donnayferris.com. To find her guided meditations on Insight Timer, visit https://insighttimer.com/donnayferris. To learn about Donna’s books, coaching services, and events, visit donnayferris.com. Follow Donna on Instagram, BlueSky, and YouTube @donnayferris or Facebook @donnayatesferris.

And if you’re looking for mental health resources, please click here or reach out to your insurance provider. If you are in crisis, please dial 911, go to your nearest emergency room, or dial 988 for the suicide hotline (US only). If you are transgender, the 24/7 Trans Lifeline is 1-877-330-6366.

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