Uncut Lifestyles

First Zoom episode! Chhavi Verg was Miss NJ 2017 and a solid contender in the Miss USA 2017 competition. She's from Edison, NJ, and she graduated from Rutgers University with a degree in Marketing. Turning to the entertainment industry, she took up modeling, acting, and speaking. Recently, she spoke at a Rutgers TEDx event: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_mK4QsmDwgA&ab_channel=TEDxTalks. In this episode, we talk about New Jersey pride, pageantry, health and fitness, and personal growth during the pandemic. Chhavi has plenty of stories and feelings about the lack of South Asian representation in popular media, women's awards, and going to LA to pursue acting. She's good vibes all around. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chhaviverg/. Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnML88-i4o1DtB2aThdJkFw. Website: https://www.chhavivergofficial.com/.

Comedian Martin Amini had an interesting childhood growing up in Silver Springs, Maryland. He's half-Bolivian and half-Iranian, which has heavily influenced his comedy and stage presence. He's been doing stand-up comedy for about nine years, and he's well established in the DMV (DC, MD, VA). Martin spent some time in the LA comedy scene and has been at live shows with Bill Burr, Andrew Schulz, etc. He also has his own live comedy show, The Overachievers Comedy Show, and is currently doing live comedy at his venue in DC. His venue frequently features comedians and other artists to showcase the city's talent. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martinamini/. Twitter: https://twitter.com/MartinAmini. Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdk6UfBnrpIyk8yvWWba8tQ. The wild mushrooms show: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GLQFt1WDMGw&ab_channel=MartinAmini.

Tre grew up in Tampa Bay, Florida, and he's here to tell us that every "Florida Man" story we've heard is true (not really). But, Florida is a wild place. Tre loves it, but it comes with its own problems: racism, people shitting on the street, and, of course, crocodiles. Tre recounts his rowdy middle school years, and we talk extensively about retractable crocodile penises and homelessness. Tre's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thatistre/.

Dom Grayer is a comic in the DMV area (DC, VA, MD) and has been doing stand-up comedy for four years. He's also the co-producer of The Heavyweights Comedy Show, a showcase in DC that brings together the funniest local comedians. In this episode, we talk about writing jokes, the nerve-wracking art of stand-up comedy, and, of course, bombing on stage! Imagine standing in the spotlight on a stage with 200+ people staring at you, waiting for you to say something funny. Sounds intense, right? Shoutout to the Arlington Drafthouse in Arlington, VA: https://www.instagram.com/arlington_drafthouse/?hl=en. Dom's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dgray_comedy/. The Heavyweights Comedy Show: https://www.instagram.com/theheavyweightsdc/.

Zaryab Choudhry is a real estate investor and real estate agent in the D.C./Virginia/Maryland (DMV) area. He's currently a part of Corner House Realty (https://www.cornerhouserealty.com/), a brokerage based in Maryland, and he's done a total of five real estate deals since he started three years ago. Zaryab has done approximately five million in sales just in 2020 alone. In this episode, we chop it up! He walks me through his journey, and we talk house flipping, renting, and being a landlord. We end talking about taxes and greed. He's also in the process of acquiring a commercial property, a fried chicken and halal food spot in southwest D.C. called District Crunchy! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dmv.zary/.

Daniel W. is a California native who loves to travel! He's been to Russia, Vietnam, and several other places. In this episode, we break down some of his trips to get a sense of what exploring other countries means to him. We also have a wild conversation about the thicc-ness of various states, countries, and what that says about them. Also, if you were wondering what states are the worst, you're in the right place. Daniel's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danielwillens/.

Featured in this episode is Amy Lyons, a law student in Washington, D.C. who's had quite thrilling adventures in her lifetime. She has climbed the Patagonia mountains in South America and Mount Kinabalu in Malaysia, and many others. Our conversation revolves around her various backpacking experiences and bugs (I know right, I'm terrified). Also, Amy says 'yes' to almost everything, which is how she creates such memorable experiences. We end by reflecting on the value of the words 'yes' and 'no' in our lives. Amy stresses the importance of seeking new experiences and saying 'yes.' Amy's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/snoop_ly0ns/.

Have you ever thought about going vegan? In this episode, my cousin, Abhi S., details his vegan lifestyle. Learn about how his decision to go vegan has impacted him. We go through some common arguments against veganism, talk a little about keyboard activism via J. Cole's "Snow On Tha Bluff," and finish with a short discussion on fruitarianism.

Priya Soni is an influencer, model, author, YouTuber, and much more. She's honestly done a lot. She wrote a book when she was 16, started modeling in college, and took that modeling experience to Miss New Jersey 2019! She didn't place, but she says participating in the pageant made her happy. The central theme of this episode is this: do what you want and don't let anyone's opinions get in the way of what you enjoy. Priya's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/priyaxsoni/. Priya's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC259tU6qkp23ay1ICHRrPww/featured.

Want to know how to flip above-ground swimming pools and exercise equipment? Ask DJ Khan! But seriously, because live entertainment is on the decline due to COVID-19, entertainers need to find other ways to generate income. DJ Khan talks about his company, Khan Entertainment Group, and the conflicts he encountered along his DJ journey (hint: it involves Indian uncles). Sheraz Khan Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/khanyeezy_/. Khan Event Group Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/khaneventgroup/.

Dhara Singh is an Indian American writer based in Piscataway, New Jersey. She's the author of "Tell Her She's Lovely: An Anthology," a beautiful anthology of poems that showcases the journey of a woman transformed by internal validation. She is the founder of Liferesume, a company based on the principles of guidance and authenticity, helping find your true self. We talk about her experiences at Columbia Journalism School, J.P. Morgan Chase, Yahoo Finance, and several other artistic and professional endeavors. Her story will empower you to take action, or, as she would say, imperfect action. Dhara Singh's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dsinghx/. "Tell Her She's Lovely": https://www.amazon.com/Tell-Her-Shes-Lovely-Anthology/dp/1650835604. Liferesume: https://www.instagram.com/liferesume.co/.

Nikita P., Rutgers University alumna, talks about her career, hardships she endured along the way, and the importance of valuing yourself. She shares some hilarious workplace stories that I empathize with. I also share some terrible experiences I've had in the past with employers, along with some good ones. We give great advice along the way and judge some LinkedIn job postings. Buzzsprout link: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=636505.

Jeff K. and I talk about our past relationships. Jeff recalls several situations that made him and others around him uncomfortable. I talk about being bullied in elementary school and how the negative use of the word 'gay' is a big issue. We speak from our experiences and try not to make any generalizations about people. Men should have healthy conversations about relationships and masculinity with other men, such conversations need to be normalized.

In this episode, Indian American artist Ay B. V. talks about how he started rapping, his biggest influences, his sound, and how an artist's image affects the music. He breaks down his freestyling, his thoughts on the rap industry, and his writing process. He drops a quick freestyle at the end (while I beatbox).

My friend Jean talks about her relationship with religion and spirituality. We differentiate them both from each other and acknowledge that they are also embedded within one another. I go back-and-forth with her trying to understand more about her spiritual experiences and how they've shaped her life. We talk about the movie Midsommar, going to Church, performing rituals, and praying. Buzzsprout link: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=636505

This episode features Abraham N., a film student at Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles, California. He talks about his experience living in California, and his experience writing screenplays. Expect to learn a little about film/T.V. and get ready for a great, casual conversation.

I've always been fascinated by different religions and their philosophies, so I sat down with my friend, Farwa S., to talk about Islam, its tenets, and its practices. She talks about her experience with the faith and how her understanding of it has evolved as she has gotten older. She also tells great, relatable stories, check her out!

This episode details some of the arguments against #BlackLivesMatter and debunks them by citing logical fallacies that are the foundations of such arguments. A discussion on qualified immunity and policing follows.

Divas Singh, aka browndudehikes, illustrates how he maintains his active lifestyle. He's a nature-lover and an avid hiker. In this episode, he explains how he got started hiking, why everyone should do something outdoors, and how hiking has helped him stay active (and how it can help you). He believes that we stare at our screens all day, so putting them down and taking a walk on a trail has immense value. He's the first brown boy to get it hiking. Instagram: browndudehikes. YouTube: browndudehikes

DJ RKG, aka DJ Rahul K. Gandhi, breaks down the nitty-gritty of DJing and provides some insight into the evolution of the modern-day DJ. We talk about his journey into the entertainment industry as a young adult and how much his mentor influenced him to actually become a DJ. Some DJs use turntables, and others simply just click a button; in this episode, we talk about the different kinds of DJs, how technology has changed DJing, and how much work DJs actually put in to make a night memorable. DJ RKG's Instagram: dj.rkg. Hit him up for your next celebration or birthday bash!

Local producer SoKu (aka SoKu Beats) talks about his love for producing and what success as a producer looks like. He details his creative process while keeping it 100% honest about the struggles of marketing music and gaining momentum in the industry. Instagram: @Sokubeatsofficial. Youtube: Youtube.com/sokubeats

Anish Soni is one talented beatboxer. He's part of the Rutgers' acapella group Nothin' But Vocals. We break down basic beatboxing sounds, talk about his journey with acapella, and discuss the impact of hip-hop on our understanding of the world. As someone who was introduced to hip-hop early in life, and as someone who also comes from a similar background, I understand Anish's creative bent perfectly. Let's chop it up! (Intro music: Chillhop Jazz, Mattijs Muller, Shutterstock)

I linked up with my friend from middle school, Jeff Kandathil, a young professional in the banking field. We talked about working in a high-stress field and dealing with stress on an everyday basis. Jeff shared some powerful stories that gave me more insight into the anxieties he faces. Talking to him made me realize that we're all on some level still figuring things out, and no matter how old we get, we may always be in that zone.

Meet Patel, a supply chain professional, has some strong words for this generation's wantrepreneurs and fakers. Entrepreneurship is cool now, which means everyone has probably thought about starting a business, or at least some sort of side hustle. Meet speaks from experience since his uncle is an actual business owner and entrepreneur. His uncle owns several Mr. Subs eateries and Tacorias (including the one on Rutgers - New Brunswick campus). We have a passionate conversation about starting businesses, working, self-awareness, and of course, Gary Vaynerchuk, CEO of Vayner X, because he's everywhere.

Joining me on this episode is Ryan Permaul from local reggae band, Tropic Vibez. Tropic Vibez consists of three members: Ryan Permaul (Bassist/Vocalist), Anthony Markovski (Guitarist), and Drew Possumato (Drummer). Ryan talks about the songwriting process, touring, managing audience opinions, and his greatest influences (The Beatles, Kanye West, etc.). If you haven't checked out Tropic Vibez yet, this is a sign! They're on every streaming platform out there. (Intro music: Chillhop Jazz, Mattijs Muller, Shutterstock)

I linked up with one of my old friends, Amninder Singh, to talk about photography and what it means to be a creator. He's been a photographer for several years now, and his Instagram page @adventuresofsingh is pretty popping. We sat down to talk about his love for photography, the value of Instagram likes, and content creation. Join his adventure!

My high school friend Srikar Gudipati gives insight into the work/life culture at Johnson and Johnson. He currently works there as a Software Engineer. We talk about the many ways JnJ tries to make its employees feel valued, which then leads us into a larger conversation about the value of social relationships at work. We finish strong with a commentary on structured timelines we encounter in society (in high school, college, work, etc.).

My cousin, Ria Soni, co-founded a non-profit with her friend Juhi Patel called Project Stree. Project Stree is dedicated to raising awareness about women's health and healthy menstrual practices. I sat down with Ria to talk about the stigma surrounding periods and menstrual health and her motivations for starting a non-profit. We also talk about conservatism and how that impacts the way people perceive this issue. Ria shares her vision for Project Stree and comments on what the future will look like for her organization.

I believe that we should practice being empathetic towards our doctors. I mean, they're humans too! Sometimes, they're running behind so we get upset. Or, they make us wait an extra half-hour before seeing us so we complain. I sat down with my dentist, Dr. Mihir Bava, to talk about his practice and lifestyle. I wanted to know what he thinks of his patients, how he views the service industry, and how he handles difficult situations (plus MUCH more). After listening to this one, I hope you see your dentists differently!

My friend, Nimmi Pandya (Rutgers student), has a lot to say about her academic career, especially since she changed her major and will graduate in 5 years instead of the traditional 4. She details her experience with Anthropology, her original major, and explains why she switched to Biomedical Engineering. We then talk about the value of teaching and being a liberal arts major in college. She stresses living your life at your own pace and welcoming new challenges that lead to personal growth.

I sat down with my friend Charlene Manalaysay to have an in-depth conversation about what it means to be Christian. She currently works for a Christian organization and is an exceptionally active conversationalist! She recounts her experience with God at a young age and describes some of the poignant moments in her life that drew her to Christianity. We end up going back-and-forth as I detail my experiences with the Hindu faith. A compelling commentary on the practical importance of doubt in religion follows.

I sat down with one of my good friends Mubarak Olukotun to talk about his experience at Yale University. He graduated with a double major in math and philosophy. We talk about his experience at university and his interest in finance. He expresses his affinity toward philosophy, describing the foundational experience that kick-started his interest in logic and philosophical arguments. We then delve into a more casual conversation about right/wrong and the types of philosophy we both admire.

A quick introduction to my podcast.