On the latest episode of VRT's popular series ‘De Columbus,’ viewers were treated to not just breathtaking landscapes but also an intimate look at the personal struggles of actress and radio host Liesa Naert. During her adventurous trip with host Wim Lybaert, Liesa shared her fears and anxieties, offering audiences a glimpse inside her life.
Starting off her adventure, Liesa revealed, “Ik ben nog nooit buiten Europa geweest. Ik denk dat dat te maken heeft met mijn vliegangst” (I have never been outside of Europe. I think it has to do with my fear of flying). Facing the unknown was nothing short of monumental for her, especially as she boarded the bus for the long road trip from the Spanish mountains to the icy shores of Spitsbergen.
Further opening up, Liesa disclosed more of her fears, including her unwillingness to use elevators. “Ik durf ook niet in een lift. Ik ben bevallen op de tiende verdieping van het Jan Palfijn-ziekenhuis en dat heb ik met de trap gedaan” (I also don't dare to use the lift. I gave birth on the tenth floor of Jan Palfijn Hospital and I did it by taking the stairs). It’s evident to anyone watching the show, her trepidations stem from deeply planted roots, marking significant turning points in her life.
Liesa has struggled with mental health issues since her teenage years, visiting psychiatrists as early as her youth. Reflecting on the stigma she felt during those visits, Liesa confessed, “Ik schaamde me kapot. Ik voelde me een zot, alsof er echt wat mis was met mij. Nu is dat normaal om daarover te praten” (I was completely ashamed. I felt crazy, as if something was really wrong with me. Now it is normal to talk about it). Her willingness to share this vulnerable piece of her past contributes to the show's overarching message about mental health awareness.
Delving even more, Liesa recounted how moving away from home led her to face overwhelming levels of anxiety. “Dat was op de één of andere manier ‘ontwrichten’. Ik had er heel veel zin, maar dat draaide helemaal anders uit” (That was, one way or another, dislocative. I was really excited, but it turned out completely different). The transition from living at home to embarking on her own path was fraught with challenges, triggering panic attacks and unsettling thoughts about existence.
Throughout the episode, Liesa highlighted the role medication has played in her life; “Door medicatie zijn mijn angsten en compulsieve gedragingen verbeterd” (My fears and compulsive behaviors have improved through medication). By addressing these challenges candidly, Liesa not only advocates for herself but also for others grappling with similar experiences. She emphasized the importance of seeking help when needed, especially during significant life changes, as she did after the birth of her daughter.
Meanwhile, her chemistry with Wim Lybaert was palpable as they shared moments of levity and serenity amid the stunning scenery they traversed. The two struck up conversations deep enough to touch on the human condition, all the way from their upbringing to their choices. "Als ik thuiskom van de opnames van ‘De Columbus’, neem ik eerst een dag om te acclimatiseren" (When I come back from filming ‘De Columbus,’ I take a day to acclimatize), Wim shared, showing his relatability and pacing alongside Liesa’s introspective nature.
This episode encapsulates the spirit of ‘De Columbus,’ which is far more about the adventure of the travel than merely reaching the destination. It’s about the connections made, both with oneself and with one another during life’s unpredictable journeys. Liesa’s candidness served not only to deepen her storyline but also enrich the viewer's experience, shown during lighter moments when they enjoyed pina coladas and laughed at their misadventures along the route.
Although Liesa’s progress was marked by the acknowledgment of her fears and trials, there was also the enjoyment of simple moments—being surrounded by nature and the beauty of the world, which she remarked made her reflective and peaceful.
It’s clear this episode of ‘De Columbus’ brought to light powerful messages about mental health and acceptance, showcasing how sharing one’s story can empower and create connections among diverse audiences. Liesa Naert's experience holds as much weight as the landscapes they traverse, urging viewers to appreciate their inner journeys alongside their outer explorations.
‘De Columbus’ continues to not only showcase travel but also instills the importance of tackling inner demons—a voyage extending beyond mere geographical distances.
