Melting Pot

In this heartwarming episode, Payal sits down with Anthony Wong as he takes us on a nostalgic journey through his childhood at Jiak Kim Road, once known as Jiang Road or Tiong Bahru. Anthony vividly recalls growing up in a close-knit community, spending carefree days playing street games, flying kites, catching spiders, and inventing fun without gadgets. He paints a touching picture of life in a humble four-storey block where thirteen family members shared one bathroom, yet lived harmoniously under one roof. Through Anthony's memories, we glimpse a simpler time filled with imagination, togetherness, and the unspoken warmth of community life that shaped his early years.[Lumina Vitae,Light of Life,Melting Pot Series, Podcast,The Bloom Fund,Stories of Singapore,Heritage ReimaginedCommunity Through Art,Singapore Stories]#LuminaVitae #MeltingPotSeries #TheBloomFund #SingaporeStories #CommunityArt #TheBloomFund #SingaporeHeritage #AIMeetsMemory #IntergenerationalStories #NHB Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Payal speaks with Dawn Tam, who grew up in Singapore during the transformative decades from the 1960s onward. Through her recollections, Dawn offers a vivid glimpse into life in Loyang, once a seaside fishing village before land reclamation reshaped the landscape. She shares personal and historical memories from her birth in the Year of the Tiger to witnessing her community's relocation after a fire. Dawn also reminisces about the vibrant entertainment hubs of her youth , Happy World, New World, and Great World , spaces that defined leisure and joy in old Singapore. Her stories beautifully capture the essence of a changing nation, where nostalgia, resilience, and memory intertwine across six decades of transformation.[Lumina Vitae,Light of Life,Melting Pot Series, Podcast,The Bloom Fund,Stories of Singapore,Heritage ReimaginedCommunity Through Art,Singapore Stories]#LuminaVitae #MeltingPotSeries #TheBloomFund #SingaporeStories #CommunityArt #TheBloomFund #SingaporeHeritage #AIMeetsMemory #IntergenerationalStories #NHB Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this conversation, Payal speaks with Ellil, who fondly revisits his childhood growing up in Singapore's east, particularly around Kallang Airport Road. Through his stories, listeners are transported to a time before the National Stadium and bustling hawker centres, when neighborhoods thrived on friendship and community spirit. Ellil recalls the joy of simple, carefree days,playing football in open spaces, catching rainbow fish in monsoon drains, and sharing meals with neighbors in a close-knit, multiracial community. With humor and warmth, he paints a picture of a childhood filled with freedom, curiosity, and camaraderie. His memories offer a nostalgic glimpse into a bygone era of Singapore, where play, connection, and imagination defined everyday life.[Lumina Vitae,Light of Life,Melting Pot Series, Podcast,The Bloom Fund,Stories of Singapore,Heritage ReimaginedCommunity Through Art,Singapore Stories]#LuminaVitae #MeltingPotSeries #TheBloomFund #SingaporeStories #CommunityArt #TheBloomFund #SingaporeHeritage #AIMeetsMemory #IntergenerationalStories #NHB Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this nostalgic episode, Payal speaks with Fredrick, who takes us back to his childhood in a rural kampong more than sixty years ago. He recalls life in a muddy, undeveloped neighborhood, where daily routines included helping his mother rear pigs and chickens, fetching water from ponds, and playing freely in the rain. Fredrick paints a rich picture of open spaces filled with fruit trees, local opera stages, and nearby quarries, a world full of simplicity and adventure. He also reminisces about his early years living in a colonial black-and-white house, where his father worked as a cook, and where he first encountered music through a gramophone. Through his warm storytelling, Fredrick reflects on a childhood rooted in nature, play, and heartfelt memories of a bygone Singapore.[Lumina Vitae,Light of Life,Melting Pot Series, Podcast,The Bloom Fund,Stories of Singapore,Heritage ReimaginedCommunity Through Art,Singapore Stories]#LuminaVitae #MeltingPotSeries #TheBloomFund #SingaporeStories #CommunityArt #TheBloomFund #SingaporeHeritage #AIMeetsMemory #IntergenerationalStories #NHB Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this delightful episode, Payal speaks with Jake, who transports us to his childhood days living in a rented shophouse along McPherson Road. From his upstairs window, young Jake would spend evenings counting passing cars with his mother, turning simple moments into imaginative games. He recalls the vibrant sights outside, laundry spread like colorful tapestries across open fields and the comforting aroma of freshly brewed coffee drifting from a nearby coffeeshop. Jake also shares fond memories of the Pasar Malam (night market), a weekly highlight filled with lights, laughter, food stalls, and performances that brought the community together. Through his tender and humorous reflections, Jake paints a vivid picture of a time when everyday life in Singapore was simple, sensory, and full of quiet wonder.[Lumina Vitae,Light of Life,Melting Pot Series, Podcast,The Bloom Fund,Stories of Singapore,Heritage ReimaginedCommunity Through Art,Singapore Stories]#LuminaVitae #MeltingPotSeries #TheBloomFund #SingaporeStories #CommunityArt #TheBloomFund #SingaporeHeritage #AIMeetsMemory #IntergenerationalStories #NHB Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Payal speaks with Jeremy Tay, a community leader whose lifelong dedication to social work and public service has shaped many aspects of Singapore's community development. Trained in social work, Jeremy shares his experiences serving in various roles from director at Outward Bound Singapore to Dean of the National Community Leadership Institute, and as the founding president of Morningstar Community Services, which supports families and strengthens relationships. Reflecting on his childhood in Ang Mo Kio, Jeremy recalls growing up in a small provision shop house along Jalan Hwi Yoh, surrounded by friendly neighbors and the nearby old folks' home. His fond memories of playing endless games of hide-and-seek and cycling through village roads offer a touching glimpse into a simpler, more connected Singapore, one that continues to inspire his passion for community bonding today.[Lumina Vitae,Light of Life,Melting Pot Series, Podcast,The Bloom Fund,Stories of Singapore,Heritage ReimaginedCommunity Through Art,Singapore Stories]#LuminaVitae #MeltingPotSeries #TheBloomFund #SingaporeStories #CommunityArt #TheBloomFund #SingaporeHeritage #AIMeetsMemory #IntergenerationalStories #NHB Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this touching episode, Payal speaks with Li Leng, a 68-year-old jumping instructor who shares vivid recollections of her childhood in Singapore. She takes us back to her early years in a small compound along Mount Road, where five wooden stilt houses stood close together, home to Malay and Chinese families who all spoke Cantonese. Li Leng fondly remembers the warmth of this tight-knit community and her short walks to Canossa Convent School with her sister. Later, when the government redeveloped the area, her family moved to Tanglin Halt. There, she recalls watching passing trains through the kitchen window and witnessing the neighborhood's transformation over the decades. Through her memories, Li Leng beautifully captures the nostalgia of growing up in a changing Singapore from kampong life to modern flats.[Lumina Vitae,Light of Life,Melting Pot Series, Podcast,The Bloom Fund,Stories of Singapore,Heritage ReimaginedCommunity Through Art,Singapore Stories]#LuminaVitae #MeltingPotSeries #TheBloomFund #SingaporeStories #CommunityArt #TheBloomFund #SingaporeHeritage #AIMeetsMemory #IntergenerationalStories #NHB Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this heart warming episode, Payal sits down with Mr. Song, who shares his memories of growing up in a bustling shophouse above a dim sum stall at the junction of Victoria Street and Arab Street. The seventh of ten children, Mr. Song recalls the warmth and chaos of living in a small space filled with family, neighbors, and laughter. He talks about his childhood friendships with children from the nearby printing shop, his mischievous school days at St. Michael's, and the joy of sneaking under the school fence to play football during holidays. Mr. Song also reflects on the life-changing advice of his teacher, Singapore's first female Olympian who encouraged his switch to English-medium education. Through his nostalgic storytelling, Mr. Song paints a touching portrait of community, opportunity, and the people who shaped his journey.[Lumina Vitae,Light of Life,Melting Pot Series, Podcast,The Bloom Fund,Stories of Singapore,Heritage ReimaginedCommunity Through Art,Singapore Stories]#LuminaVitae #MeltingPotSeries #TheBloomFund #SingaporeStories #CommunityArt #TheBloomFund #SingaporeHeritage #AIMeetsMemory #IntergenerationalStories #NHB Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this reflective episode, Payal speaks with Mr. Leong, who shares vivid memories of his childhood growing up in the shipyard quarters near present-day Keppel Bay. As the son of a shipyard worker, he recalls life in a close-knit community of families living in two-storey flats surrounded by open fields, fruit trees, and the hum of industry. Mr. Leong paints a rich picture of a multicultural neighborhood, where children of all races played freely and doors were never locked. He fondly remembers days spent exploring the shipyard, watching ships being welded and painted, and learning to swim at a nearby golden sand beach. These early experiences not only shaped his understanding of community and curiosity about the world but also inspired his path toward becoming a mechanical engineer, a journey rooted in the sights and sounds of his childhood by the sea.[Lumina Vitae,Light of Life,Melting Pot Series, Podcast,The Bloom Fund,Stories of Singapore,Heritage ReimaginedCommunity Through Art,Singapore Stories]#LuminaVitae #MeltingPotSeries #TheBloomFund #SingaporeStories #CommunityArt #TheBloomFund #SingaporeHeritage #AIMeetsMemory #IntergenerationalStories #NHB Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this delightful episode, Payal speaks with Mr.Yeo and Ms. Karen, who share their memories of growing up in very different parts of Singapore during the 1950s and '60s. Mr. Yeo recalls his early years along Hong Kong Street, near the Singapore River, where he watched bustling scenes of bumboats unloading rice and rubber at Boat Quay and remembers how the once murky river transformed into today's lively waterfront. He also reminisces about the Cavenagh Bridge, which used to open for large vessels to pass through.In contrast, Karen paints a charming picture of life in Changi Village, surrounded by wooden kampong houses, fields, and the golden sands of the beach, before moving to Canberra. Together, their stories beautifully capture the transformation of everyday life across generations from river trade and Kampong living to an evolving, modern city.[Lumina Vitae,Light of Life,Melting Pot Series, Podcast,The Bloom Fund,Stories of Singapore,Heritage ReimaginedCommunity Through Art,Singapore Stories]#LuminaVitae #MeltingPotSeries #TheBloomFund #SingaporeStories #CommunityArt #TheBloomFund #SingaporeHeritage #AIMeetsMemory #IntergenerationalStories #NHB Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this engaging episode, Payal speaks with Mr. Richard Chan, who shares memories of growing up along Petain Road in a large family of eleven siblings raised by two mothers. Living in a modest SIT flat, Richard recalls the closeness of family life, sleeping on the balcony during humid nights and walking miles to school each day. He paints a lively picture of the neighborhood's food culture, from the famous char kway teow hawker who fried noodles while seated due to polio, to the aroma of dishes wrapped in opeh leaves. Richard also takes us back to the days of New World Amusement Park, owned by the Shaw Brothers, where bumper cars, shooting galleries, and open-air cinemas brought joy to many. Through his storytelling, Richard beautifully captures the warmth, resilience, and everyday magic of Singapore's past.[Lumina Vitae,Light of Life,Melting Pot Series, Podcast,The Bloom Fund,Stories of Singapore,Heritage ReimaginedCommunity Through Art,Singapore Stories]#LuminaVitae #MeltingPotSeries #TheBloomFund #SingaporeStories #CommunityArt #TheBloomFund #SingaporeHeritage #AIMeetsMemory #IntergenerationalStories #NHB Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lumina Vitae presented by The Bloom Fund Singapore and Supported by The National Heritage Board Singapore! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lumina Vitae Presented by The Bloom Fund Singapore and Supported by The National Heritage board Singapore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lumina Vitae Presented by The Bloom Fund Singapore and Supported by The National Heritage Board Singapore! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lumina Vitae Presented by The Bloom Fund Singapore and Supported by The National Heritage Board Singapore! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lumina Vitae Presented by The Bloom Fund Singapore and Supported by The National Heritage Board Singapore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lumina Vitae Presented by The Bloom Fund Singapore and Supported by National Heritage Board Singapore! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lumina Vitae Presented by The Bloom Fund Singapore and Supported by The National Heritage Board Singapore! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lumina Vitae Presented by The Bloom Fund Singapore and Supported by The National Heritage Board Singapore! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lumina Vitae Presented by The Bloom Fund Singapore and Supported by The National Heritage Board Singapore! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lumina Vitae Presented by The Bloom Fund Singapore and The National Heritage Board Singapore! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lumina Vitae Presented by The Bloom Fund Singapore and Supported by The National Heritage Board Singapore! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Discover the world of Gema Galdón, a Barcelona-based milliner whose handcrafted hats blur the line between fashion and art. What began as a hat she made for herself soon grew into a passion that captured hearts and evolved into her life's work. Today, her studio ,The Gema Galdón Hat Gallery is a space where craftsmanship, imagination, and design come together to create timeless, one-of-a-kind headwear.In this episode, Gema shares her creative journey and the thoughtful process behind her work. Each hat she makes is crafted entirely by hand, free from chemicals, and shaped with patience and precision. For her, a piece isn't complete until it feels just right, which is a reflection of her deep connection to her craft and the artistry that defines her work.The full episode is live on Melting Pot wherever you listen to podcasts and on ouTube.Join us as we step into her studio and explore the art, emotion, and dedication behind every handcrafted hat.[Podcast, New Episode, Behind The Mic, Storytellers, Unfiltered Conversations, Real Talk, MillineryArt, Handcrafted Hats, Listen Now]#HandcraftedHats #MillineryArt #HatDesign #WearableArt #ArtisanCraft #HatMaker#CreativeProcess #ArtisanMade#GemaGaldonHatGallery#podcast#MeltingPot Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Step inside Silvia Ferrer Casanova's Barcelona studio, a once-quiet garage that now overflows with colour, creativity and meaning. Surrounded by her hand-painted silk scarves, intricate tapestries, and delicate fans, Silvia has built a world where art lives and breathes in every corner. Her work extends beyond decoration, it's an invitation to experience beauty in everyday life.Through art therapy, she discovered a liberating way to create without judgment, allowing her to explore the power of art as both a healing and transformative practice.In this episode, Silvia opens up about her journey as an artist and the deep emotional connection she has with her creative process. She shares how her passion for silk became a form of storytelling, and how creating with her hands, free from chemicals and guided by intuition has shaped her unique artistic voice. Silvia also discusses her ongoing project, “Oracle,” a series of six silk works that explore intuition, mystery, and artistic expression.A new episode featuring Silvia is out now. Available wherever you listen to podcasts and on YouTube.[Podcast, New Episode, Behind The Mic, Storytellers, Unfiltered Conversations, Real Talk, Guest Spotlight, Listen Now]#ArtStories #SilkArt #BarcelonaCreatives #HandmadeWithLove #ArtPodcast #MeetTheArtist #CreativeJourney #SilkTapestries #TextileArt#MeltingPot Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Step into the serene world of Lola Rivière, a ceramist whose studio is a sanctuary of earth and fire. Here, the tactile memory of childhood mud meets the refined skill of a master artisan. Each surface is a landscape of subtle textures and nuanced colors, where simple forms hold the quiet power of ancient artifacts. Witness the alchemy of the kiln and the careful application of slips and oxides that transform clay into objects of profound, functional beauty. Walking through her space feels like a meditation on time, where every piece carries the imprint of a hand in dialogue with the elements. This is more than a workspace; it is a living testament to the soul of ceramics.[Podcast, New Episode, Behind The Mic, Storytellers, Unfiltered Conversations, Real Talk, Guest Spotlight, Listen Now]#StudioTour #CeramicArt #ArtistStudio #Pottery #Stoneware #CeramicArtist #ArtisanLife #SlowMade #FunctionalArt #TexturalArt #AncientInspiration #SpanishArtist #WorkshopTour #HandmadeCeramics #WabiSabi Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if everything you've been told about entrepreneurship is a lie? Sean Kling, CEO of The Aria Group and author of Outwork Them All, cuts through the fluff to expose the biggest misconceptions about success. He reveals the harsh truth behind "overnight success" and why the business coaching industry is designed to sell you a dream it can't deliver. This is a no-BS conversation for every founder who's tired of the hype and ready for reality.The full episode is live on Melting Pot.[Podcast, New Episode, Behind The Mic, Storytellers, Unfiltered Conversations, Real Talk, Guest Spotlight, Listen Now]#MeltingPot #Entrepreneurship #BusinessTruth #OvernightSuccess #Startup #BusinessCoach #NoBS #EntrepreneurLife #BusinessAdvice #Podcast #TheEntrepreneurshipLie Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

They decided to end their marriage on a Sunday morning. After a decade of disconnect and a year locked down in a pandemic, the chasm between them felt too wide to cross. The life they had built together was over.But what happened next defies every conventional story about separation. Instead of moving out, they moved into different bedrooms. Instead of silence, they started talking. And then, Terri made a radical, vulnerable proposal that would become the first step in a journey they never saw coming.This is the story of Zeke and Terri, who accidentally rebooted their relationship by first completely letting it go. They take us inside the raw, honest moments of their unraveling and reveal the unconventional, intimate path they took to rebuild a stronger, more authentic partnership from the ground up. It's a profound lesson in communication, vulnerability, and the courage to redesign a life together.This is not a story about saving a marriage. It's about building a new one with the same person.The latest episode of Melting Pot is live. Listen now for a conversation that will change how you see love, commitment, and second chances.#MeltingPot #Podcast #NewEpisode #LoveStory #RelationshipGoals #Marriage #SecondChances #Vulnerability #CouplesTherapy #RelationshipAdvice #UnconventionalLove #PersonalGrowth #ModernLove #ListenNow Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Exploring Barcelona laneways often leads to hidden gems, and one of them is Dim Light BCN. This eclectic gallery is the vision of Marino along with Jalal, two talented and driven individuals who shared their creative journey with me.In our conversation, they spoke about the inspiration and philosophy behind their art—how each piece reflects a unique story and identity. Jalal also opened up about his struggles and how he discovered that art is his true calling, turning challenges into purpose.Dim Light BCN is more than just a gallery. It's a celebration of creativity, resilience, and expression tucked away in Barcelona's vibrant laneways.Watch this snippet, then dive into the full, inspiring conversation on Melting Pot.#ArtistInterview #CreativeMinds #ArtGallery #DimLightBCN #BarcelonaArtScene #ArtistLife #Collaboration #ArtPodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bestselling author Aaron Ryan wants his sons to understand a hard truth about the world: it is "extraordinarily unfair." In his award-winning saga, he wrestles with one of humanity's oldest struggles: the fiery, seductive line between justice and revenge. He gives you a glimpse into the powerful lesson that fuels his stories. A lesson about hope in the face of injustice.Aaron Ryan watched his industry begin to vanish. Clients he'd worked with for years were replaced not by people, but by algorithms. He calls the damage "irreparable." This is the raw, unfiltered cost of AI that many aren't talking about. He gives you a glimpse into the fight to protect human creativity in a digital world.Ready to try it? The full journey is live on Melting Pot. Listen now on your favourite streaming platform.#justicevsrevenge #authorlife #philosophy #lifelessons #dystopianbooks #fatherhood #writingcommunity #bookstagram #powerfulstories #mustlisten #deepconversations Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

At 15, Robin Ajder wasn't sketching lines on a canvas.He was chasing lines on a table. What began as teenage highs spiraled into chaos, until art became the only way out.With raw honesty, he shares how addiction nearly consumed him, how abstract art gave him a lifeline, and why he now creates not just for himself but for survival.But amidst the darkness, he found a spark in art. He gives you a glimpse into how painting became more than an outlet; it became his way of survival and self-discovery.This is not just a story about drugs and recovery. It's about transformation, resilience, and finding freedom through creativity.Episode streaming wherever you listen to podcasts and on YouTube.#fromstruggletostrength #artashealing #journeyofresilience #realstoriesmatter #healingthroughart #lifeunfiltered #breakingthesilence #addictionrecovery #voicesthatinspire #podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Payal just stepped into Surarquía's sun-lit workshop near the Sagrada Familia and straight into the story of two South-American dreamers who turned a Barcelona flat into a leather lab. Alejandro (Venezuela) and Felipe (Colombia) swapped architecture sketches for pattern-making, taught themselves to sew, and after kitchen-table prototypes, opened this atelier where every bag is cut, skived, and stitched by their own hands . In 2023 they finally moved the machines out of the apartment and into a purpose-built space, but the process is still gloriously slow and local In today's episode, Payal gets the founders'-eye tour: the vintage Adler stitcher, the splitter that hums like an old Vespa, and the stopwatch that shows why a single Surarquía piece takes an entire workday to earn its seams. Episode available on all podcast streaming platform and on YouTube. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Blanca Rodríguez (@thewoundedhealer) is a bilingual storyteller who turns untreated childhood trauma into teachable hope. On stage she champions the “happy-chemistry” formula she calls D.O.S.E.- Dopamine, oxytocin, serotonin, endorphins and shows how music, laughter and dance spark each one for real body-mind repair. In this Melting Pot episode Blanca unpacks:• why a two-minute shoulder release on your dog can calm your own nervous system• her roadmap from shattered childhood to global speaker, massage therapist and ocean-volunteer Ready for a dose of movement-powered healing?

Mid-divorce, Karen Rudolf rang her paralegal to vent. “Every complaint is cha-ching, and a judge will soon decide your kids' future.” That blunt response snapped her Mama Bear wide awake. Instead of drowning in rage and legal fees, Karen plunged into communication bootcamps so she could speak for herself and for her children, inside the courtroom and beyond. Those hard-earned skills became her Stop-Change-Shift clarity framework, a sassy-classy-bad-assy method that helps you pause, breathe, ask sharper questions, and steer your own story. Ready to try it? The full journey is live on Melting Pot. Listen now on your favourite streaming platform. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From Chicago to Hollywood sets and the heart of historic Greenwood Avenue, John Wayne S III's path was anything but predictable. Once a pre-med student, a chance phone call landed him on a film set and he never looked back. Over a career spanning three decades, John has directed music videos for Grammy-winning artists, produced award-winning films like “Red All Over” and “The Tuskegee Airmen Project,” and founded Londyn Town Pictures, inspired by his daughter. But what sets his work apart isn't just the credits, it's his unwavering commitment to telling stories that push for change. Whether he's exploring gun violence, mental health, or lost chapters of Black history, John's films are rooted in truth, compassion, and the belief that cinema should start hard conversations. Dive into a conversation about creative detours, building legacy, and why the most powerful stories come from lived experience. Full episode now streaming on Podcast Now Boarding on all your favourite platforms (Spotify, Apple, YouTube) or wherever you listen to podcasts #filmmaking #blackhistory ##chicago #filmmakingchicago #race #mentalhealth #grammywinning #awardwinning #podcastmeltingpot #podcast #openconversations Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if you didn't have to choose just one life? Adam LaSalle never fit in a box and he doesn't want you to, either. From teaching English and math, to leading a music program, to acting on NBC's Chicago Fire and performing off-Broadway, Adam has built a career by refusing to follow the “one path” rule. In this episode, Adam reveals: - Why being a multi-hyphenate actor, musician, coach, writer is powerful. - The moment he realized he could rewrite his own story (and what it took to do it) - The lessons he carried from the classroom to the stage and why every audience just wants to feel seen. - His journey is proof that reinvention is essential. If you're ready to break out of autopilot and claim your next act, this conversation is your permission slip. Listen now and get inspired by a story that doesn't believe in limits. Episode available on Spotify, Apple podcasts or wherever you listen to podcasts. Also available on YouTube #MeltingPotPodcast #Reinvention #MultiHyphenate #BreakTheRules #Inspiration #LifeStories #AdamLaSalle Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“I flatlined. I lost my husband. I lost years. But I never lost myself.” -Cyndee DhalaiCyndee has been called a medical enigma. Surviving multiple near-death experiences, living 11 years in a wheelchair, and allergic to nearly every drug. But that's not the story she chooses to tell.Instead, she tells us what it means to begin again. To grieve without drowning. To listen when the body breaks and answer back with spirit.A poet, educator, and the author of Grief is the Price You Pay for Love, Cyndee joins us for an unforgettable conversation about presence, purpose, and the long, slow climb back to yourself.More Than Flesh, streaming now on all Melting Pot Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

"You're not too old. You're just telling yourself that.”After 34 years working with the blind, David Petrovay walked away- burnt out, but not done.Today, he helps people reframe their stories, identify their strengths, and step into careers that actually feel meaningful.David's not just a coach. He's a former educator, a narrative builder, and someone who's walked the hard road of reinvention.In this episode of Melting Pot, we talk about:– Listening to the real story you're telling yourself– Burnout, belief, and bold transitions– What makes a career “worthwhile”– And why it's never too late to rewrite your next chapterEpisode streaming on Spotify, Apple podcast, YouTube or wherever you may listen to podcasts Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/melting-pot. https://plus.acast.com/s/melting-pot. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if your ‘positivity' is actually hiding self-loathing?When Suzan Peltekian walked away from a thriving real estate career, it wasn't just a professional pivot, it was a radical act of self-trust.In this episode, Suzan reveals: -The silent grip of toxic positivity-The one decision that rewired her life-Her Miracle Morning rituals that turn intention into action-Why your subconscious mind is running the show (and how to change the script)This one's for anyone feeling stuck in a life that looks good on paper but feels like a lie.

From tossing lo hei with Christabel to pickling tea leaves with Thet, this episode takes you on a journey across kitchens, wet markets, hawker stalls, and family dining tables—through the voices of the women who live in this city's diversity every day.- A South African barbecue in the tropics.- A Singaporean-Indians go-to hawker stalls.- Banana stems and tea leaf salad in Peninsula Plaza.- Cheese, dim sum, and food rituals that span generations.

What do dinosaurs, planets, and squats have in common? For Raj Khedun, they were the starting points of a lifelong search for deeper meaning.In episode 9 of our ongoing season 19, we sit down with the dynamic founder of Keep Fit Kingdom, who's on a mission to help a billion people live healthily to 100. A seasoned relationship coach, yogi, author, and wellness entrepreneur, Raj shares how his childhood curiosity evolved into the 3:3 Metaverse Breathing Method- a simple, powerful technique that's helping people overcome anxiety and insomnia in under 3 minutes.We talk about:- How early questions about evolution and the cosmos sparked a quest for purpose- Why he believes wellness should replace pharma as the frontline of healing- What schools should be teaching about human potential- The 5 life areas every person needs to balance- And why squats might just be the secret to happinessIf you're someone who's constantly questioning, seeking alignment, or trying to tap into more of yourself- this episode will feel like a breath of fresh air.

After walking away from a high-powered legal career and a life that wasn't truly hers, Sophia Elan (aka Debra Buhring) found healing, purpose, and a voice. In this powerful conversation, she shares how she transformed years of trauma into a life of authenticity. Through travel, writing, and heart- centered living.Tune in to hear how Sophia broke free from toxic patterns and built a life aligned with who she really is.#SophiaElan #MeltingPotPodcast #TraumaToTransformation #HeartCenteredLiving #WomenWhoRewrite #HealingThroughTravel #EmotionalResilience #LiveAuthentically #BreakingFreeEpisode available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, You Tube or wherever you listen to podcasts Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/melting-pot. https://plus.acast.com/s/melting-pot. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

At 60, Barry Finlay climbed Mount Kilimanjaro, and it changed everything. What started as a personal challenge became a bestselling book, a decade of philanthropy, and an unexpected award from the Queen. In this episode, Barry shares the real story behind the mountain, the writing journey that followed, and why it's never too late to start over.

What if the food you eat could help you feel calmer, more grounded, and less stressed?When Llance Kezner and his wife, Lori, started experimenting in their kitchen, they had no idea their creations would become award-winning products found in thousands of stores. But behind Keep Life Tasty is a simple mission—to make food that brings comfort, both physically and emotionally.From their first-ever garlic condiment (a happy accident) to Millie's Sipping Broth, a soothing, savory tea bag that helps curb cravings and ease stress, their journey has been anything but conventional.In this episode, Llance shares:✨ Turning a tough moment into a thriving family business✨ The magic of food as a tool for emotional well-being✨ The real ups and downs of running a business with your partnerIt's a story of resilience, creativity, and heart.

In 1979, Chris Donaldson set out from Belfast to ride his Moto Guzzi Le Mans to Australia. He never made it. Instead, he crossed the Middle East, rode through the Sahara, hitched a yacht ride, and ended up in Argentina.44 years later, he picked up where he left off—riding the same bike across the world. But this time, the obstacles were bigger: age, political unrest, and a Parkinson's diagnosis.Beyond adventure, Chris has spent 40 years in business across retail, property, health, and IT. He's also a best-selling author and a fighter, reclaiming his businesses after banks placed them in receivership.In this episode, Chris shares:- The extreme highs and lows of his two-year journey- How travel shaped his business mindset- His legal battle to reclaim his company- Why he refuses to let age or illness slow him down

What if obstacles were actually guideposts?Author, screenwriter, and creator of Life is a Trip Reincarnation Stories, Brownell Landrum shares her journey of embracing the unknown.From a sudden decision to leave behind a settled life to an unexpected encounter in Tunisia, she reveals how unseen forces shape our paths.In this episode, Brownell talks about reincarnation, the voices that guide her writing, and the fine line between fiction and truth. She believes stories aren't just entertainment—they hold deeper meaning, revealing the connections we often overlook.The universe is always at work. The key is learning to listen.You can reach Brownell on http://brownelllandrum.com/Don't miss this engaging conversation. Episode is available on all podcast streaming platforms and on YouTube. Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/melting-pot. https://plus.acast.com/s/melting-pot. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this fascinating episode of Melting Pot, we sit down with Csongor Daniel, a master of bioenergy healing with over 30 years of experience in harnessing the power of energy to promote healing and well-being. Originally from Hungary and now based in the United States, Csongor shares his extraordinary journey—from his engineering background to discovering the unseen forces of energy that shape our lives.Csongor discusses his unique approach to bioenergy healing, explaining how energy imbalances can lead to illness, and how healing involves restoring the body's natural flow. He also delves into long-distance healing, quantum physics, and the connection between our thoughts and our physical health. With a mission to empower individuals to heal themselves, Csongor has helped thousands tap into their own energy to achieve balance and vitality.Tune in to hear about Csongor's method of teaching people to harness their own healing ability, and learn how you can improve your own energy flow, health, and well-being.Episode available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube or wherever you listen to podcasts. Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/melting-pot. https://plus.acast.com/s/melting-pot. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this inspiring episode of Melting Pot, we dive deep into the transformative journey of Nadia Sethi, a former hospitality professional turned healer and coach. With over two decades of experience serving humanity in the corporate world, Nadia found her true calling during a life-changing transition catalyzed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Nadia shares her powerful shift from the fast-paced hospitality industry to embracing holistic healing practices that focus on empowering individuals to heal on physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual levels.Join Nadia as she discusses the importance of unlearning old patterns, embracing self-love, and understanding the layers of human existence. She also explores the future of holistic coaching, spiritual empowerment, and how integrating these practices can lead to a more fulfilling life.Tune in for an enlightening conversation on how self-awareness, meditation, and a holistic approach can help you find balance and navigate personal challenges.Episodes available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube or wherever you listen to podcasts. Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/melting-pot. https://plus.acast.com/s/melting-pot. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In our final episode of our series Echoes of Impact we meet Matthew Carauddo—aka "Novastar"—a versatile creator with 30+ years in acting, directing, and staged combat. Mathew is a licensed fencing instructor, he has trained hundreds in the California Bay Area. Matthew Carauddo, is the visionary behind "Diamond Dragons," bringing the story to life as its creator, author, designer, and voice-over artist. With over 30 years in acting, directing, and staged combat, he has choreographed iconic plays like "Romeo & Juliet" and "Peter Pan," alongside dazzling Star Wars-inspired L.E.D. saber combat performances. A pioneer in sound font design for custom saber props, Matthew has left a lasting mark on the saber community, blending creativity and combat like no other. You can reach Mathew on https://diamond-dragons.com/Dive into his inspiring journey with host Payal Nayar, streaming now on Spotify, Amazon Music, Apple Music, and YouTube or wherever you may listen to podcasts. Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/melting-pot. https://plus.acast.com/s/melting-pot. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In episode 6 of our series Echoes of Impact, we meet Henry Woodman, a seasoned professional in film production and travel with an MBA from the University of Arizona and Nova Southeastern University. Fluent in English, Spanish, and French, he co-founded WoodMark Productions in 1984, blending his passions. Henry's career led him to Santiago, Chile, where he spent two years producing the hit game show Machos.Henry Woodman's career is marked by four Emmy nominations and a passion for travel that has taken him around the globe. He has produced and directed films and videos for top travel destinations worldwide, collaborating with major travel companies like American Airlines, American Express, and several government tourism boards. In 1997,Henry founded World Travelvision (WTV), revolutionising the travel industry by pioneering Digital Brochures and Virtual Reality 360° Panoramic Photography. This innovation led to the creation of ICE Portal in 2004, a groundbreaking technology and marketing company. Today, Henry is recognised as a leading expert in visual content management and distribution in the travel industry. Tune in now for the second episode of our new series Echoes of Impact with our host Payal Nayar.Episode streaming on all podcast streaming platforms and on YouTube.Apple Podcasts: https://buff.ly/2Vf8vv8⠀Spotify: https://buff.ly/2Vf8uHA⠀-Original music credit: Rish Sharma.His music is available on Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube and other streaming platforms.-October2019 voicesandmore Pte Ltd All rights reserved Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/melting-pot. https://plus.acast.com/s/melting-pot. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In episode 5 of our ongoing series Echoes of Impact, we meet Stefan Fehr, an AI pioneer and visionary entrepreneur since 2019. With a passion for content creation, marketing, and business development, Stefan crafted intelligent apps, founded an AI App Store, and designed cutting-edge websites. A sought-after speaker and blogger, Stefan shares insights on the future of work, society, and AI. As the founder of ModernIQs, Stefan has established an AI App Store specifically designed for B2B applications that efficiently perform complex tasks, such as creating deeply optimised SEO blog articles. With just one click, businesses can generate a whole month or even a year's worth of content, making these apps many times more efficient than traditional SaaS solutions or ChatGPT. After diving into the AI space in 2019, Stefan has made significant strides in content creation, inbound marketing, and large-scale website design. Listen to the full episode now as we dive deep into Stephan's AI-driven world.Tune in on Spotify, Apple podcasts, Amazon Music, YouTube or wherever you listen to podcasts. Apple Podcasts: https://buff.ly/2Vf8vv8⠀Spotify: https://buff.ly/2Vf8uHA⠀-Original music credit: Rish Sharma.His music is available on Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube and other streaming platforms.-October2019 voicesandmore Pte Ltd All rights reservedDo support the show with reviews, shares and a one time donation to help bring you a lot more important content.https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/meltingpotcollective Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/melting-pot. https://plus.acast.com/s/melting-pot. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In episode 4 of our series Echoes of Impact we meet Joelle Kaufman, creator of the "Curveball Method," inspired by her family's battle with breast cancer and 25 years of her life in the Silicon Valley. Joelle's method has already impacted 150,000+ professionals and is the subject of her upcoming book, Crushing the Cancer Curveball. Tune in as our host Payal Nayar explores Joelle's journey in this episode.With over 20 years of executive level business development, strategy, marketing, product management, sales and communications experience, Joelle Kaufman has led teams in media, enterprise technology, and consumer internet companies. Throughout her career, she has built strong, self-directed teams and leveraged extensive analytics to ensure that marketing and partnerships are delivering clear value to the company. Tune in with our host Payal Nayar to listen to and watch how Joelle brings a unique perspective to leadership development and organisational change.Episode available on all podcast streaming platforms.Apple Podcasts: https://buff.ly/2Vf8vv8⠀Spotify: https://buff.ly/2Vf8uHA⠀-Original music credit: Rish Sharma.His music is available on Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube and other streaming platforms.-October2019 voicesandmore Pte Ltd All rights reservedDo support the show with reviews, shares and a one time donation to help bring you a lot more important content.https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/meltingpotcollective Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/melting-pot. https://plus.acast.com/s/melting-pot. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.