Podcasts about Indian Americans

Americans of Indian ancestry

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Best podcasts about Indian Americans

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Latest podcast episodes about Indian Americans

Zev Audio Zone
How Dtocs is Revolutionizing Tableware

Zev Audio Zone

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 15, 2025 28:46


Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Njma6I0OhjM  Pallavi Pande is a mompreneur and the visionary founder and CEO of Dtocs, a Portland-based, minority and woman-owned (MWBE) company that creates stylish, 100% compostable tableware crafted from naturally shed Areca palm leaves that is sustainable, eco-friendly, and plastic-free. Pallavi's first name roughly translates to “leaf” in Sanskrit. Fond childhood memories of dining on banana leaves in India, helped inspire Pallavi to create Dtocs.   True to Pallavi's mission of “People, Planet, Parties,” Dtocs is a sustainable tableware brand rooted in Pallavi's Indian heritage and driven by a mission to reduce single-use plastic. Her products combine stylish, functional design with a strong dedication to environmental and social impact. According to Pallavi, her products appeal to people who care not only about what's on their plates, but what's in their plates. Founded in 2019, the brand delivers elegant yet eco-conscious alternatives to single-use plastic and paper products—everything from plates and bowls to patented straws—designed for both everyday use as well as upscale events. Sold on Amazon, Walmart, Wayfair, and in local markets, Dtocs has captured attention far and wide, earning the prestigious NEXTY Award for Innovation at the Natural Products Expo East and being named a finalist in Shark Tank's audition rounds.  According to one article dated May 1, 2024, Dtocs had achieved $1.8 million in cumulative revenue since 2019 and the company reported having sold 10 million palm leaf tableware units at that point in time.  Pallavi has also been honored as a 2023 Influential Businesswoman and an AI Innovation Excellence Award recipient, recognized on the INC 250 Female Founders list, and most recently awarded the Clearco 2025 AAPI Ecommerce Excellence Award, which spotlights Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) founders in the e-commerce space. Under her leadership, Dtocs has secured a place in SEED SPOT's Retail Brand Accelerator and has been celebrated by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce as a CO‑100 Customer Champion.  Dtocs' mission goes beyond sustainability. By sourcing materials from rural India, the company empowers local farmers and artisans—particularly women—while supporting educational and vocational initiatives through partnerships like Anmol Sahara and “Greater Than PDX” in Portland.  Tune in as Pallavi shares her journey from occasionally dining on banana leaves in her native India to building a BIPOC and women-empowered, eco-conscious ecommerce brand that blends purpose, sustainability, and cultural pride. Learn more: https://dtocs.com/ Coupon Code: dtocs20 – for 20% off and free shipping on any order on the website Connect with Pallavi Pande: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pallavi-pande-bb5abb1b/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/palpande/?hl=en Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/pdxmommies/  

American Desi
American Desis

American Desi

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 12, 2025 23:42


Join me and my college roommate and good friend Ramya as we dive into our experiences growing up as Indian-Americans. We'll explore the challenges and joys of navigating two cultures, balancing our parents' Indian heritage with our American upbringing, and figuring out our own identities. We've had countless conversations about this topic off the record, and we're excited to share our thoughts and stories with you. Tune in for a relatable and heartfelt discussion about identity, culture, and growing up between two worlds.

Daily Signal News
Victor Davis Hanson: Zohran Mamdani's Skeletons Are Coming Out of the Closet

Daily Signal News

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 10, 2025 7:23


With no record of holding a real job outside activism, music, and campaigning, Mamdani has built his political identity on class warfare, racial rhetoric, and far-Left ideology. Victor Davis Hanson breaks down the latest on Mamdani in today's episode of “Victor Davis Hanson: In His Own Words.” “ Barack Obama, when he was president, ordered a predator hit team on and killed [Anwar] al-Awlaki in a targeted assassination….Now we learned in 2015, years after that Obama hit on this ISIS figure, Mamdani was defending him and saying, basically, he turned radical because FBI surveilled him.  “He has some other disturbing things, as well. He posted a video on his social media of Indian Americans dressed as if they were Hasidic Jews. And they were making fun of the Hanukkah celebration. And they had a menorah there. And they were chanting, as if they were rap music. It was very derogatory toward Jews. Yet, why would he put that on his social media account?” (0:00) Introduction to Zohran Mamdani (0:57) Controversial Statements and Actions (2:24) Defending Extremists (3:47) Cultural Insensitivity and Identity Issues (5:56) Conclusion

Powerful Ladies Podcast
Navigating Art, Identity, and Mental Health with Ragni Agarwal

Powerful Ladies Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 9, 2025 55:32


In this episode, artist and designer Ragni Agarwal shares how she found freedom and healing through bold, vibrant art. Ragni is an Indian American fine artist and graphic designer based in Los Angeles, who shares her journey from tech to a professional art career, the mental health benefits of creating art, and the challenges of being a female artist of color in today's climate. Hear about her vibrant art style, collaborations with notable brands like Hulu and Bombay Sapphire, and her dedication to making her art a safe space for all women. Discover how Ragni balances creativity with survival and her thoughts on the current political landscape and its impact on the creative community. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about resilience, vulnerability, and finding joy in making art. 00:00 Introduction to Ragni Agarwal 00:21 Challenges of Being an Artist Today 01:01 Ragni's Artistic Journey 01:31 Connecting Through Art 01:56 Starting the Conversation 04:03 The Role of Mental Health in Art 06:42 Balancing Art and Survival 09:51 The Influence of Politics on Art 13:02 The Power of Color 16:15 Cultural Influences and Inspirations 19:39 Safety and Expression in Art 23:37 Addressing Social Issues and Frustrations 24:46 Defining Powerful Ladies 25:34 Finding Inspiration and Building Community 27:40 Embracing Vulnerability in Art 29:18 Advice for Aspiring Artists 30:53 Navigating the Challenges of Being an Artist 39:41 The Importance of Storytelling in Art 45:14 Manifesting Future Goals 45:54 Conclusion and Farewell The Powerful Ladies podcast, hosted by business coach and strategist Kara Duffy features candid conversations with entrepreneurs, creatives, athletes, chefs, writers, scientists, and more. Every Wednesday, new episodes explore what it means to lead with purpose, create with intention, and define success on your own terms. Whether you're growing a business, changing careers, or asking bigger questions, these stories remind you: you're not alone, and you're more powerful than you think. Explore more at thepowerfulladies.com and karaduffy.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Trust Me...I Know What I'm Doing
Geeta Gandhbir... on documentary filmmaking

Trust Me...I Know What I'm Doing

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 8, 2025 50:38


Abhay is joined by award winning filmmaker Geeta Gandbhir, as she discusses her journey in making documentary films, the importance of empathy in storytelling, and the challenges faced by marginalized voices in the industry. She reflects on her personal experiences, the influence of her mentors, and the need for representation and trust. Geeta also shares insights on her latest project, 'The Perfect Neighbor,' which explores the complexities of community and violence. She is currently directing a series for Netflix with Spike Lee and Samantha Knowles, which is a retrospective on post-Katrina New Orleans. Gratefully, we also talked about Star Wars and Amar Chitra Katha.(0:00 - 2:50) Introduction(2:50) Part 1 - empowerment and practice(16:47) Part 2 - highlighting the African American experience, making 'The Perfect Neighbor', empathy as a vehicle, activism(33:49) Part 3 - legacy and mentorship, cultivating trust(48:42) ConclusionSHOUT OUT: There are major headwinds that are making it harder and harder to freely share stories and news especially from communities of color,  so please check out URL media and EpicenterNYC, both the brainchildren of my friend and veteran journalist, Mitra Kalita.Correction - A shared quote in the episode is from director Grace Lee (not Spike Lee). My bad!

Indo American News Radio Houston TX
IANR 2526 062825 Indo American Power with Maryland Lt Gov Aruna Miller,Tagore Soceity Houston on the Barnali event; History Talks Ep 3 Windmill Power by Ashok Rao

Indo American News Radio Houston TX

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 7, 2025 116:32


IANR 2526 062825 Line Up4-6pm INTERVIEWSHere's the guest line-up for Sat, June 28, 2025 from 4 to 6pm CST on Indo American News Radio, a production of Indo American News (www.IndoAmerican-News.com). Weare on 98.7 FM and you can also listen on the masalaradio app.By Monday, hear the recorded show on Podcast uploaded on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Pocket Casts, Radio Public and Breaker. We have 6 years of Podcasts and have had thousands of hits.TO SUPPORT THE SHOW, SELECT FOLLOW ON OUR FREE PODCAST CHANNEL AND YOU'LL BE NOTIFIED OF NEW UPDATES.4:20 pm We all can think of many inventions and discoveries that have changed our world, from the wheel tothe cell phone. We turned to Ashok Rao, a serial entrepreneur and restauranteur - he owns Song Kran Thai restaurant in Uptown Park - to research out six compelling inventions and moments in time that have affected the way we live. So far, he has related the story of the Tulip Bubble and the story of Ethylene. He is back again today with the third episode of the fascinating History Talks series – Windmills: From Grain to Gigawatts.4:50 pm The Tagore Society of Houston will be bringing“Barnali”, a program featuring word renowned exponents of Rabindra Sangeet: Rizwana Bannya Choudhury and Shwapnil Shojib, on July 25 & 26. To tell us more about this, we are joined by TSH President Drubha Ghose and membersBaiduriya Chatterjee, Saurab Ghosh and Kajal Roy.5:20 pm More and more Indian Americans are running for elected offices and quite a few are in high positionsnationwide with six in the US Congress: Ami Bera, Suhash Subramania, Pramila Jayapal, Ro Khanna, Shri Thanedar and Raja Krishnamoorthi. Aruna K. Miller is the 10th Lieutenant Governor of the state of Maryland. She is the second woman to serve as Lieutenant Governor and the first woman ofcolor and immigrant elected to statewide office in Maryland. A Democrat, she took office in 2022, in a state that has a very diverse mix of demographics. LG Miller joins us today to talk about her political journey.Also stay tuned in for news roundup, views, sports and movie reviews.      TO BE FEATURED ON THE SHOW, OR TO ADVERTISE, PLEASE CONTACT US AT 713-789-NEWS or 6397 or at indoamericannews@yahoo.comPlease pick up the print edition of Indo American News which is available all across town at grocery stores. Also visit our website indoamerican-news.com which gets 90,000+ hits to track all current stories.And remember to visit our digital archives from over 17 years. Plus, our entire 44 years of hard copy archives are available in the Fondren Library at Rice University.

Profile
Zohran Mamdani

Profile

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 5, 2025 14:36


Zohran Mamdani is the Democratic candidate for New Yok City mayor after a stunning victory in the primary race. If he goes on to win the mayoral election in November he will become the first Muslim and Indian American to lead the nation's largest city. His nomination came as a shock to some in the mainstream Democratic party who worry his policies are too extreme and could alienate swing voters. Before turning to politics Mr Mamdani had a brief career in the music industry. Mark Coles interviews his friends and family about his rise from rap artist to politician. Presenter: Mark ColesProducers: Natasha Fernandes and Ben CrightonProduction Co-ordinator: Maria OgundeleSound: Gareth JonesEditor: Nick Holland Credits: CBS New York “Zohran Mamdani claims victory in NYC Democratic mayoral primary” The Late Show with Stephen Colbert “Colber Talks NYC Mayroal Race with Candidates Zohran Mamdani & Brad Lander” Zohran Mamdani's Instagram and TikTok abc News "Trump threatens to arrest NYC mayoral front-runner Zohran Mamdani"

The Robyn Engelson Podcast
Ex-convict to Transformational Leader

The Robyn Engelson Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 3, 2025 36:37


The Robyn Engelson Podcast Ever wish you had a life mentor with over decades of experience whispering million dollar tips in your ear? That's exactly what you will get each week when you tune into The Robyn Engelson Podcast. I'm your host, a sought after burnout recovery coach for high-achieving women and help you heal from burnout and survival mode, so you can reclaim your energy, joy, and rediscover your voice. Each week, I bring you inspiring guests, insights, and tools to empower you to be energized, compress time, and start living instead of existing.   Episode Title: How Do You Rebuild After Losing Everything? Host: Robyn Engelson Guest: Rashmi Airan Episode Summary:  In this episode, we sit down with Rashmi Airan, former attorney, Wall Street investment banker, and now a speaker, leadership guide, and fierce advocate for redefining success. Rashmi's story is not about perfection. It's about truth, ownership, and rising with purpose. After being indicted for bank fraud and serving six months in federal prison, Rashmi faced the loss of everything she thought defined her: her career, her reputation, her status. But in the ashes, she discovered something far more powerful, her real self. Now, Rashmi uses her story to help others rise. Through her RISE Process: Reframe, Identify, Surrender, Evolve. She invites us to let go of shame, redefine our worth, and lead with authenticity. This conversation is for anyone who has ever felt like failure was the end. Rashmi is here to remind you: it might just be the beginning.    You'll learn: How did prison become the start of personal transformation? Why is letting go of ego the key to real growth? What the RISE Process looks like — and how to use it? How did gratitude journaling change Rashmi's life? Why do most women leaders set boundaries without guilt? What happens when you embrace vulnerability as strength?   Memorable Quotes: “I got eulogized before I died. And I realized people loved me… not for my success, but for me.” – Rashmi “Not doing something is still doing something wrong.” – Rashmi “It's not about the fall. It's about who you become when you rise.” – Robyn   Resources & Mentions: https://rashmiairan.com   Actionable Steps for Listeners: 1. Reflect on a Moment You Reframed Was there a time you turned pain into purpose? Write it down. Let it guide you. 2. Start a Gratitude Journal One line a day. Especially on hard days. It changes everything. 3. Identify Your Support Circle Who helps you stay grounded? Reach out. Tell them they matter. 4. Share Rashmi's Story Send this episode to someone who feels like they're in a low moment. Remind them they're not alone.   Final Thought: Your worth isn't defined by what you achieve, but by how you show up, even when everything falls apart. Like Rashmi says: “You can lose everything, and still find your purpose.”    What listeners have to say: “I cried when Rashmi said she thought no one would pick up her call. This episode is a must-listen.” – David M., entrepreneur “This is the most honest conversation I've heard on leadership and failure.” – Alisha T., executive coach “Gratitude journaling in prison? I'm rethinking everything I complain about.” – Marissa G., C-suite mom   These stories remind us:  Failure isn't the end. It's an invitation to evolve.  Success means nothing if you lose yourself in the process.  True connection comes from authenticity, not achievement.   Now it's your turn: Which part of Rashmi's journey resonated most with you? Have you ever felt like your worth was tied to your achievements? We'd love to hear. DM us, tag us, or share your story. You never know who it might inspire.   Loved this episode? If you found value in this conversation, don't forget to leave a review! Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Your feedback helps us create content that supports your journey to thriving, not just surviving.   Connect with Rashmi Airan: Facebook Youtube Instagram Linkedin   About  Rashmi Airan: Rashmi Airan is a force of nature. A keynote speaker, consultant, and unapologetic truth-teller, she shakes up rooms with her raw, riveting story. One that challenges everything you think you know about leadership, ethics, and the hidden traps of ambition. She doesn't just speak about resilience; she lives it, proving that even the most crushing failures can be transformed into a catalyst for growth, authenticity, and unshakable courage. As a first-generation Indian American, Rashmi was raised to chase excellence. She did just that. Graduating with honors from Columbia Law School, thriving in corporate America, and building her own law practice. But success has a dark side. During the housing boom, she made a decision that, at the time, seemed small, but had devastating consequences. A single ethical blind spot, fueled by the pressure to provide for her children, led to a federal prison sentence for bank fraud. Prison shattered everything she thought she knew about herself. And then? She rebuilt: stronger, bolder, and more awake than ever. Through six months behind bars, Rashmi stripped away the layers of ego, guilt, and fear that had defined her. She emerged with a powerful message: our worst mistakes don't define us, our responses to them does. Now a "recovering government, corporate, and real estate lawyer," Rashmi is a globally recognized speaker who fearlessly tackles the complexities of human behavior, decision-making, and ethical leadership. With 30+ years in business, law, and finance, she has a front-row seat to the pressures that push good people into bad decisions, and she's on a mission to wake up individuals and organizations before they fall into the same traps. Her insights are backed by cutting-edge research in behavioral psychology, ethics, and leadership, and she's partnered with global powerhouses like Coca-Cola, Cardinal Health, Merck, Comcast, Sotheby's, and Hershey's. Deloitte has recognized her transformational impact, and her story has been featured on ABC, PBS, The Washington Post, and The Wall Street Journal. Rashmi doesn't do surface-level inspiration. She sparks deep, uncomfortable, necessary conversations. She challenges Fortune 100 leaders, financial firms, legal teams, and women's groups to confront their blind spots, own their decisions, and rise through their struggles with integrity and courage. Beyond the stage, she's an avid hiker, globe-trotter, and proud mother of two. She serves on the Board of Directors for the Overtown Youth Center/Alonzo Mourning Foundation and is an Ambassador for The Key Clubhouse. Her message is simple but urgent: Life will break you. Your choices will define you. And no matter how hard you fall: you can RISE.   Connect with Robyn: Bring Robyn to Your Stage Get Robyn's #1 best selling book, Exhausted To Energized - 90 Days To Your Best Self Get Robyn's Free Back To You: From Chaos To Clarity Video Sign up for Robyn's Unapologetic Personal Letter   View Robyn's Website Follow Robyn on LinkedIn Watch Robyn on Instagram Robyn's Facebook      

KQED’s Forum
Forum from the Archives: Fremont's Sid Sriram Fuses New Genres with Family Legacy of Traditional Indian Singing

KQED’s Forum

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 1, 2025 57:45


Singer Sid Sriram was born in southern India, but his family moved to Fremont when he was just a year old. His voice and his sound are the product of his family's legacy as carnatic traditional signers and of  a childhood in the Bay Area suburbs, listening to jazz and hip hop. Sriram has already achieved fame in India, his career expanded globally after singing for Grammy-Award winning composer A.R. Rahman, and he was recently featured in an NPR Tiny Desk Concert. He joins us in our studio to sing from his new album and talk about growing up Indian-American in the Fremont and what it's like to be more famous halfway across the world than where you went to high school. Guests: Sid Sriram, musician, his forthcoming album is Sidharth Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hot Off The Wire
Truckers work on English skills and an inside look at the Sean 'Diddy' Combs' trial

Hot Off The Wire

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 28, 2025 46:12


Program note: Hot off the Wire will return on Wednesday, July 9, after a short holiday break. Each week Hot off the Wire looks at a variety of stories in business, science, health and more. This week's headlines include: Truckers work on English skills as US proficiency policy takes effect. A Revolutionary War-era boat is being painstakingly rebuilt after centuries buried beneath Manhattan. 'Gas station heroin' is technically illegal and widely available. Here are the facts. These Canadian rocks may be the oldest on Earth. London's secret wartime tunnels are set to draw tourists with a spy museum and underground bar. Commuter traffic stops for whales on Australia's humpback highway. Flutes for Fido Volunteers play music to soothe shelter animals. Supreme Court limits nationwide injunctions, but fate of Trump birthright citizenship order unclear. Supreme Court says Maryland parents can pull their kids from public school lessons using LGBTQ books. Iran says level of damage to nuclear sites caused by US strike is 'high.' Trump says Iran must open itself to inspection to verify it doesn't restart its nuclear program. MAGA leaders warned bombing Iran would backfire on Trump. So far, his voters are cheering the move. Bipartisan bill aims to block Chinese AI from federal agencies. Key inflation gauge rose last month while Americans cut back on spending. Unemployment among young college graduates outpaces overall US joblessness rate. A wedding for the ages Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez's Venice extravaganza. Who is Zohran Mamdani State lawmaker seeks to become NYC's first Muslim and Indian American mayor. Windows' infamous 'blue screen of death' will soon turn black. Wimbledon 2025 Coco Gauff and Carlos Alcaraz give tennis two young superstars. 6 Americans detained in South Korea for trying to send rice and Bibles to North Korea by sea. A Supreme Court ruling allows religious objections to LGBTQ schoolbooks, and a new class of priests bucks a trend of decline. Sean 'Diddy' Combs’ lawyer mocks sex trafficking case in closing, says charges 'badly exaggerated.' How Sean 'Diddy' Combs' sex trafficking trial has played out. —The Associated Press About this program Host Terry Lipshetz is managing editor of the national newsroom for Lee Enterprises. Besides producing the daily Hot off the Wire news podcast, Terry conducts periodic interviews for this Behind the Headlines program, co-hosts the Streamed & Screened movies and television program and is the former producer of Across the Sky, a podcast dedicated to weather and climate. Theme music The News Tonight, used under license from Soundstripe. YouTube clearance: ZR2MOTROGI4XAHRX

America In The Morning
Trump At NATO, Dangerous Weather, Judge Rules On Abrego Garcia, Latest On Senate Budget Bill

America In The Morning

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 26, 2025 41:29


Today on America in the Morning Trump At NATO Meeting with NATO leaders, President Trump hailed pledges by member nations to significantly increase military spending by 2035, and also turned his sights on both Ukraine and Iran.  Correspondent Ed Donahue reports the president left the door open to sending anti-missile systems to Ukraine, and announced he will be sitting down with Iran regarding their nuclear intent.   Dangerous Heatwave The summer sun continues to bare down on parts of the Midwest and Northeast, posing concerns about heat exhaustion for millions as temperature records continue to be set.  Correspondent Clayton Neville reports.   Who Is Zohran Mamdani President Trump, the lone Republican running for mayor in New York, and the current Democrat mayor who is now in the independent line all have one thing in common – they are all vehemently against the 33-year-old Democrat Socialist and vocal critic of Israel seeking to become New York City's first Muslim and Indian American mayor.  Correspondent Julie Walker takes a look at Zohran Mamdani.   NJ Congresswoman's Not Guilty Plea A member of Congress says she's not guilty of interfering with ICE agents at a New Jersey detention center.  Correspondent Haya Panjwani reports on charges against Congresswoman LaMonica McIver.   Heading To Space The latest launch of a private flight to the International Space Station included four astronauts from four different countries.  Correspondent Donna Warder reports.    Judge Rules On Kilmar Abrego Garcia A judge has ordered Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Salvadorian migrant deported to El Salvador before being returned to the U.S. earlier this month to face prosecution, to be placed into the custody of his brother should he be released from custody by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.      Trump Denies Bombing Assessment Report President Donald Trump and members of his administration are insisting that U.S. strikes on Iran delivered a crushing blow to the Islamic Republic's nuclear program.  Correspondent Donna Warder reports.   Powell On Tariffs & Trump On Powell Fed Chair Jerome Powell is not backing down on interest rates, testifying for a second day that inflation remains a fluid issue.  Correspondent Ed Donahue reports that Powell's statements are not being received well by President Trump, who wants a cut in the prime rate.   Latest On The GOP Budget With a self-imposed deadline of July 4th, Senators are racing to try and finish up their version of President Trump's Big Beautiful spending bill.  One key sticking point for the GOP is Medicaid.  John Stolnis has more from Washington.   Facing Hate Crime Charges The man accused of throwing Molotov cocktails at a group of Israel supporters in Boulder, Colorado is charged with Federal hate crimes.  Correspondent Clayton Neville reports.   California Faces Title IX Violation California has been found in violation of Title IX in another clash with Trump administration officials over transgender athletes.  Correspondent Gethin Coolbaugh reports.  Sports – Robert Workman  NBA Draft & more.      Finally   Watchers of the Simpsons are questioning whether one of the most successful animated series in history tried to kill off a main character.  Entertainment reporter Kevin Carr has the answer. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Tying It Together with Tim Boyum
'A delicate balance': North Carolina's Health secretary breaks down Medicaid's complex role

Tying It Together with Tim Boyum

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 25, 2025 30:38


North Carolina's new top public health official, N.C. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Dr. Dev Sangvai joins Tying it Together host Tim Boyum to discuss the latest public health news, the future of health care, nurse shortages and more. Tim also asks him just why the healthcare system is so difficult to understand for so many, including him. "Nobody would build it the way we currently have it if we had to start all over. But I think now we have a $5 trillion healthcare enterprise across the United States, and I think individuals are just trying to do what their part is," Sangvai explained. Sangvai is the state's first Indian-American secretary and is a former president of Duke Regional Hospital and the North Carolina Medical Society.

Grand Tamasha
Hindutva Politics in the Diaspora

Grand Tamasha

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 25, 2025 46:53


How and why did Hindu nationalism become popular among India's diaspora after India's independence in 1947? This is the central question of Hindu Nationalism in the Indian Diaspora: Transnational Politics and British Multiculturalism, a 2023 book by the historian Edward Anderson.The book interrogates the distinctive resonance Hindutva ideology has overseas, and the multiple ways in which the diaspora engages with British politics and society, while sustaining connections back home in India.Anderson is assistant professor in History at Northumbria University in Newcastle. He was previously the Smuts Research Fellow in Commonwealth Studies at the University of Cambridge, where he obtained a PhD in History.Anderson joins Milan on the show this week to discuss the trajectory of Indian migration to Britain, the founding of the first overseas Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) shakha, and the Emergency's impact amongst the diaspora. Plus, the two discuss the role of the diaspora in funding politics and the emergence of “neo-Hindutva.”Episode notes:1. “A Reappraisal of Indira Gandhi's Life—and Legacy (with Srinath Raghavan),” Grand Tamasha, June 11, 2025.2. “The Secret to Indian Americans' Success (with Meenakshi Ahamed),” Grand Tamasha, June 4, 2025.3. “The Indian American Vote in 2024 (with Sumitra Badrinathan and Devesh Kapur),” Grand Tamasha, November 6, 2024.4. “What to read about Hindutva,” The Economist, April 5, 2024.

AP Audio Stories
Who is Zohran Mamdani? State lawmaker seeks to become NYC's first Muslim and Indian American mayor

AP Audio Stories

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 25, 2025 0:55


Who is Zohran Mamdani? The state lawmaker seeking to become New York City's first Muslim and Indian American mayor. AP correspondent Julie Walker reports.

10X Success Hacks for Startups, Innovations and Ventures (consulting and training tips)
Indian Genius: How Satya, Chandrika, Nikesh & Deepak Changed The World | Meenakshi x Vida

10X Success Hacks for Startups, Innovations and Ventures (consulting and training tips)

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 22, 2025 22:47


What do Microsoft's Satya Nadella, Grammy-winner Chandrika Tandon, tech titan Nikesh Arora, and wellness icon Deepak Chopra have in common?They're not just successful—they're transformational.

Life of Stories
# 1786: Blending physiotherapy with Iyengar yoga. Interview of Dr. Kokila Patel, California. by (प्रा. सौ. अनुराधा भडसावळे. )

Life of Stories

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 21, 2025 10:06


Send us a textDr. Kokila Patel, an Indian American physiotherapist, uses Iyengar Yoga to treat her patients. She focuses on posture, alignment, and breathing, using props like belts and blocks. Her approach helps relieve chronic pain and improves strength, flexibility, and mental well-being. Patients also learn simple home routines for lasting results. By blending physiotherapy with yoga, she offers a holistic and effective way to heal 50,000 + patients in America so far!

New Books Network
Prema Kurien, "Claiming Citizenship: Race, Religion, and Political Mobilization Among New Americans" (Oxford UP, 2025)

New Books Network

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 19, 2025 39:18


Claiming Citizenship: Race, Religion, and Political Mobilization Among New Americans (Oxford UP, 2025) looks at Indian Americans, currently the second-largest group of immigrants in the United States, and a group that has seen significant representation in the three most recent presidential administrations. Prema Kurien asks how Indian Americans have become a rising political force given that they have not followed the traditional, recommended model of political influence. She examines the dialectical process through which immigrants conform to the structures and cultures of the society to which they have immigrated, but also work to transform their adopted homelands to accommodate their unique needs. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

New Books in American Studies
Prema Kurien, "Claiming Citizenship: Race, Religion, and Political Mobilization Among New Americans" (Oxford UP, 2025)

New Books in American Studies

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 19, 2025 39:18


Claiming Citizenship: Race, Religion, and Political Mobilization Among New Americans (Oxford UP, 2025) looks at Indian Americans, currently the second-largest group of immigrants in the United States, and a group that has seen significant representation in the three most recent presidential administrations. Prema Kurien asks how Indian Americans have become a rising political force given that they have not followed the traditional, recommended model of political influence. She examines the dialectical process through which immigrants conform to the structures and cultures of the society to which they have immigrated, but also work to transform their adopted homelands to accommodate their unique needs. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/american-studies

New Books in Hindu Studies
Prema Kurien, "Claiming Citizenship: Race, Religion, and Political Mobilization Among New Americans" (Oxford UP, 2025)

New Books in Hindu Studies

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 19, 2025 39:18


Claiming Citizenship: Race, Religion, and Political Mobilization Among New Americans (Oxford UP, 2025) looks at Indian Americans, currently the second-largest group of immigrants in the United States, and a group that has seen significant representation in the three most recent presidential administrations. Prema Kurien asks how Indian Americans have become a rising political force given that they have not followed the traditional, recommended model of political influence. She examines the dialectical process through which immigrants conform to the structures and cultures of the society to which they have immigrated, but also work to transform their adopted homelands to accommodate their unique needs. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/indian-religions

New Books in American Politics
Prema Kurien, "Claiming Citizenship: Race, Religion, and Political Mobilization Among New Americans" (Oxford UP, 2025)

New Books in American Politics

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 19, 2025 39:18


Claiming Citizenship: Race, Religion, and Political Mobilization Among New Americans (Oxford UP, 2025) looks at Indian Americans, currently the second-largest group of immigrants in the United States, and a group that has seen significant representation in the three most recent presidential administrations. Prema Kurien asks how Indian Americans have become a rising political force given that they have not followed the traditional, recommended model of political influence. She examines the dialectical process through which immigrants conform to the structures and cultures of the society to which they have immigrated, but also work to transform their adopted homelands to accommodate their unique needs. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In Conversation: An OUP Podcast
Prema Kurien, "Claiming Citizenship: Race, Religion, and Political Mobilization Among New Americans" (Oxford UP, 2025)

In Conversation: An OUP Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 19, 2025 39:18


Claiming Citizenship: Race, Religion, and Political Mobilization Among New Americans (Oxford UP, 2025) looks at Indian Americans, currently the second-largest group of immigrants in the United States, and a group that has seen significant representation in the three most recent presidential administrations. Prema Kurien asks how Indian Americans have become a rising political force given that they have not followed the traditional, recommended model of political influence. She examines the dialectical process through which immigrants conform to the structures and cultures of the society to which they have immigrated, but also work to transform their adopted homelands to accommodate their unique needs.

The Jason Cavness Experience
Syed K. Jamal Founder & CEO Board Member Ford Fellow Executive Producer WTIA Alum Measures what matters On a mission to transform education with creative economy

The Jason Cavness Experience

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 15, 2025 113:35


Syed K. Jamal Founder & CEO Board Member Ford Fellow Executive Producer WTIA Alum Measures what matters On a mission to transform education with creative economy Sponsors The Jason Cavness experience is brought to you by Breeze Docs. Request for Proposals AKA RFPs, can be very challenging for Small & Medium-sized Businesses. Breeze Docs, the RFP response platform of choice for SMBs across North America, uses AI to help companies quickly complete RFPs, security questionnaires, and other important business documents.  If you'd like to start winning more RFPs and reduce completion times by up to 80 percent, visit breezedocs.ai to book a demo. By mentioning the Jason Cavness Experience, you will qualify for a free upgrade from Breeze Solo to Breeze AI+ valued at $6,000. Follow the Breeze at www.breezedocs.ai Sign up for free upgrade here  https://www.breezedocs.ai/rfp-response-software-jason-caveness CavnessHR: Seattle's Got Tech Sign up to demo your tech and win prizes for being the best tech  https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdBV98Am90oAoP08vWaS870Uk7Zp7WVDCwF6PALwlJf5NgmWw/viewform?usp=header Go to www.thejasoncavnessexperience.com for the podcast on your favorite platforms Syed's Bio Syed is an Indian-American entrepreneur and strategic advisor, focused on empowering young people to make informed career decisions and fostering meaningful cross-cultural collaborations. As the Chairman of the Tacoma-Kochi Friendship City Committee, he leads efforts to strengthen film and educational partnerships between India and the United States. An executive producer at 222 Pictures and a trained filmmaker (Mass Communication Research Center, Jamia, New Delhi), Syed serves on the Board of Advisors for The Way Home: Journey of Family and Faith, a documentary exploring the resilience of three generations of Tibetan women striving to preserve their cultural heritage. Syed is also on the board of Tasveer, the only Oscar-qualifying South Asian Film Festival in the world. In this role, he is excited to build film institute partnerships to inspire and engage young people through film production and storytelling. With a dynamic career spanning media, higher education, and nonprofits in both India and the US, Syed brings a unique blend of creative vision and strategic expertise. He actively volunteers with the World Trade Center Tacoma as its India Ambassador, serves on the Board of Directors of the World Affairs Council of Tacoma, and mentors aspiring entrepreneurs through Bridge for Billions.  Additionally, he curates transformative impact projects for Collegey.com and evaluates student initiatives for Rise, a prestigious global talent program by Schmidt Futures and the Rhodes Trust. As a leader in organizational strategy, Syed drives innovation, builds high-impact partnerships, and ensures measurable client outcomes. His professional journey includes pivotal roles in media, academia, and international education, underpinned by his personal experience as an International Ford Foundation Fellow pursuing graduate studies in international affairs. This global perspective informs his vision for initiatives like Collegey and Branta, both of which aim to inspire and support the next generation of changemakers. In 2011, Syed joined the Fulbright Commission to advance the US Department of State's public diplomacy efforts through EducationUSA.  As Communications Manager, he led groundbreaking digital outreach campaigns, cultivated strategic partnerships, and conducted recruitment programs and workshops in collaboration with US Foreign Service Officers. Since transitioning from EducationUSA, Syed has consulted for leading youth and higher education organizations across India/South Asia, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East. In 2015, he founded Branta, a consulting firm that bridges global education and youth networks in the US and youth-centered initiatives in emerging markets. Syed's expertise lies at the intersection of the creative economy, public diplomacy, social entrepreneurship, and impact-driven programming. His passion for fostering global citizenship, project-based learning, and cross-cultural innovation continues to shape his contributions to the education and creative economy sectors.  We talk about the following and other items Syed's Background and Journey The Importance of Poetry and Nature Biking and Favorite Poets Cultural Differences in Poetry Empowering Youth in Career Decisions The Future of Higher Education The Role of College Tacoma's Transformation and Strengths The Creative Economy in Tacoma The Role of Nonprofits in Tacoma Becoming a Filmmaker The Power of Camera Angles in Filmmaking The Impact of Lighting on Perception Changes in the Filmmaking Industry The Evolution of Storytelling Humanizing Homelessness The Role of South Asian Film Festivals The Importance of Social Capital Religious and Cultural Practices in India The World Trade Center and International Trade I nnovation and Creativity Immigrating to the United States The Cost of Private Education The Value of Public Schools The Impact of Socioeconomic Disparities Originality and Courage in Creativity India-Pakistan Relations Introducing Grid City Studio Building Tacoma as a Creative Hub Engaging the Community  Syed's Social Media LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/skjamal/ Personal Website: https://www.gobranta.com/ceofounder Syed's Advice   I am not very good at giving advice. I would say just, think about your story a lot. You have a story. Don't underestimate your story. Your story is a collective story of your parents, your neighborhood, your neighbors, your books. It's all part of your story, so don't underestimate your story. Please tell your story, talk about yourself, talk about, the environment you grew up in, things that bothers you. Talk about it. It matters a lot when we talk about our personal things. A lot of people, a lot of time people shy away, they avoid talking about themselves because they think it's showing off.  I don't think it's showing off. You are at your most authentic self when you just talk about your story as your story. So please don't underestimate your stories. We might pick up one of your stories and make a movie out of it.

They Call Us Bruce
They Call Us Murder at the Patel Motel

They Call Us Bruce

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 13, 2025 44:47


Jeff and Phil welcome back actor, activist and author Maulik Pancholy, co-writer and star of the scripted comedy podcast Murder at the Patel Motel. He talks about the real-life "Patel motel cartel" that inspired the audio drama's small town murder mystery milieu; blending the tried-and-true tropes of an Agatha Christie-style whodunnit with a gay, Indian American family comedic twist; the creative challenges of writing for an audio-only format; whether or not Maulik will ever get to attend the Met Gala; and of course, The Good, The Bad, and The WTF of making Murder at the Patel Motel.

Everything is Personal
What's the REAL Power of Storytelling in Hip-Hop?

Everything is Personal

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 13, 2025 67:29


In this soulful and energising episode, host Len May dives deep into the journey of Rajiv Nathan—also known as RajNATION—entrepreneur, storyteller, hip-hop artist, and founder of Startup Hype Man. From growing up as a first-gen Indian American in Chicago to building a brand that empowers startups to pitch with power, Rajiv shares how his upbringing, love for professional wrestling, and passion for music shaped his unique approach to business. Discover how storytelling isn't just a marketing buzzword but a legacy tool—and why discipline, identity, and authenticity are crucial ingredients for long-term success.EndoDNA: EndoDNA offers a tailored health and wellness experience through DNA analysis, empowering users with insights on nutrition, lifestyle, and supplement choices based on their genetic profile. The company has achieved rapid traction, serving over 7,000 customers across 16 countries, securing relationships with top wellness providers like BellaVitta HRT Clinics, and actively engaging in clinical studies with institutions such as Harvard Medical. Click here to check out to take control over your Personal Health & Wellness   Connect with EndoDNA on SOCIAL: IG | X | YOUTUBE | FB Connect with host, Len May, on IG    

Ken LaCorte: Big Pod
The Secret of Indian Business Owners

Ken LaCorte: Big Pod

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 11, 2025 9:41


Indian-Americans, along with Pakistani natives, absolutely dominate the convenience store sector. Nationwide, they own close to HALF, and in some regions it's higher. Why?You can also find me on Substack:  https://kenlacorte.substack.com/

American Conservative University
The Dinesh D'Souza Podcast. Son Of George. The Schemes of “The Younger Soros”. Worse Than His Notorious Father.

American Conservative University

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 9, 2025 38:23


The Dinesh D'Souza Podcast. Son Of George. The Schemes of “The Younger Soros”. Worse Than His Notorious Father. The Dinesh D'Souza Podcast SON OF GEORGE  Jun 02 2025   Other Episodes In this episode, Dinesh talks about how sharia, if it comes to America, will wear an American face.  Dinesh considers the Asian Indian backlash to the Indian American valedictorian at MIT who went on a pro-Palestine rant.  Author and journalist Matt Palumbo joins Dinesh to discuss the schemes of “the younger Soros” who seems to be in the image of, if not worse than, his notorious father. Want to connect with Dinesh D'Souza online for more hard-hitting analysis of current events in America? Here's how: Get Dinesh unfiltered, uncensored and unchained on Locals: https://dinesh.locals.com/ Facebook:   / dsouzadinesh   Twitter:   / dineshdsouza   Rumble: https://rumble.com/dineshdsouza Instagram:   / dineshjdsouza   Parler: https://parler.com/user/DineshDSouza GETTR: https://gettr.com/user/dineshdsouza Email: https://dineshdsouza.com/contact-us/  

Cultural Manifesto
Fort Wayne's Nitish Kulkarni explores Indian American identity on Indigo

Cultural Manifesto

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 4, 2025 40:38


Listen to an interview with Fort Wayne, Indiana-based musician, composer, arranger and producer Nitish Kulkarni. His latest album Indigo blends traditional Indian music with contemporary electronic sounds.  Kulkarni began his musical journey as a tabla player, later expanding to keyboards and production. He released his debut album Synesthetic in 2015, and since then he's released a steady stream of recordings. In addition to his solo work, Kulkarni has performed alongside legendary artists like Ustad Amjad Ali Khan and Shridhar Phadke.

Grand Tamasha
The Secret to Indian Americans' Success

Grand Tamasha

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 4, 2025 57:47


Indian Genius: The Meteoric Rise of Indians in America is a new book by the author and journalist Meenakshi Ahamed. While many immigrant groups have found success in the United States, few have excelled as far and as fast as Indian Americans, reaching heights in a single generation that many thought would take the better part of a century to achieve. Ahamed's new book offers fascinating portraits of several Indian Americans in three distinct sectors—technology, medicine, and public policy. The book tries to understand what exactly accounts for Indian Americans' ability to break into mainstream American culture and their meteoric rise within its ranks.Listeners may remember our 2021 conversation with Meena on her previous book, A Matter of Trust: India–US Relations from Truman to Trump.To talk about her new book, Meena joins Milan on the show this week. They talk about the “godfather” of the Indian tech community in Silicon Valley, the balance between creativity and execution, and the role of caste. Plus, the two discuss the real (and perceived) influence of Indian Americans in Washington.Episode notes:1. Sanjoy Chakravorty, Devesh Kapur, and Nirvikar Singh, The Other One Percent: Indians in America (New York: Oxford University Press, 2016).2. “Understanding India's Diaspora,” Carnegie Endowment for International Peace.3. Sumitra Badrinathan, Devesh Kapur, and Milan Vaishnav, “Indian Americans at the Ballot Box: Results From the 2024 Indian American Attitudes Survey,” Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, October 28, 2024.4. “Meenakshi Ahamed on U.S.-India Relations from Truman to Trump,” Grand Tamasha, February 17, 2021.

Trust Me...I Know What I'm Doing
Madame Gandhi... on lifelong learning and LET ME BE WATER

Trust Me...I Know What I'm Doing

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 3, 2025 40:26


Abhay shares a conversation with Kiran Gandhi, also known as the award-winning world stage performer Madame Gandhi, as they discuss her journey of personal growth, the creative process behind her latest album 'Let Me Be Water', and the balance between power and stillness in her life. She reflects on the importance of learning, the challenges of being a multi-faceted artist, and the significance of sincerity in her music. The discussion also touches on identity, ego, and the role of trust in artistic expression.(0:00 - 3:16) introduction(3:16) Part 1 - roles and titles, life-long learning, the birth of 'Let Me Be Water'(14:29) Part 2 - musical curriculum, stillness vs. motion(27:41) Part 3 - creative energy, ego, cultivating trust(38:57) Conclusion

The Dinesh D'Souza Podcast

In this episode, Dinesh talks about how sharia, if it comes to America, will wear an American face. Dinesh considers the Asian Indian backlash to the Indian American valedictorian at MIT who went on a pro-Palestine rant. Author and journalist Matt Palumbo joins Dinesh to discuss the schemes of “the younger Soros” who seems to be in the image of, if not worse than, his notorious father.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Trust Me...I Know What I'm Doing
SPOTLIGHT... on Dr. Amit Anand, pranayama, and 'Breathonance'

Trust Me...I Know What I'm Doing

Play Episode Listen Later May 29, 2025 31:57


Periodically on TRUST ME I KNOW WHAT I'm DOING , we share a SPOTLIGHT conversation and feature brief chats with an individual from the community about a special topic or a unique endeavor. Now while we truly should strive for mental wellness all the time, May is mental health awareness month, and there's no more obvious place to focus our energy than on something we too often take for granted… our breathing. So I'm going to take a yogic approach, drawing from the teachings of both my parents who are yoga instructors and remembering some of the daily habits of my grandparents. Breathing is essentially the most outward demonstration of our “prana”, the Sanskrit word that refers to our innate universal life force, and through “ayama” the Sanskrit word which  means to  regulate or control or lengthen, we can therefore use the practice of "pranayama" to not just consciously understand our breathing, but also optimize and even increase that life force and harmonize our mind, body, and spirit. Now whether it's deeply practicing this living science of pranayama or simply pausing briefly to become more conscious of our breathing, the benefits can be quite extensive for so many physical and mental concerns.  So it was especially terrific to have a conversation about…well… breathing with Dr. Amit Anand, who is a pulmonary, critical care, and sleep medicine specialist AND a master yoga teacher -  truly a breathing superhero. With an academic medicine background, training in both Mumbai at KEM and in Boston at Harvard, Amit has been a rigorous practitioner, clinical teacher, and researcher.  Fortunately for many patients and students alike, he has taken his experience and integrated this evidence based medical approach with an expertise in yoga training, meditation, breathwork, and pranayama. Amit is the founder of Pranayamarx,  leading live and online yoga workshops and pranayama courses. He is also the co-founder of Breathonance,  a science-based breathwork experience that integrates the yogic teachings of Pranayama with resonant musical rhythms. I actually caught a live demo this year and I was struck by a few things: the importance of creating space for this, how little time was actually required vs the perception of what was required, and the beautiful convergence of music, meditation, and breathing.  Now, I know that all of you know this, but the content and conversation here should not be taken as medical advice, and is for informational purposes only, and because each person is so unique, please consult your own healthcare professional team for any medical questions. And so as Amit and I caught up to chat, we started with the very basic question that was in front of both of us particularly as doctors, in why we all tend to be so painfully unaware of our own breathing?And you can visit breathonance.com to learn more about Amit's vision and the musical expertise of co-founder Clint Valladares

Trust Me...I Know What I'm Doing
Sanjay Sharma... on margins and mainstream in media and storytelling

Trust Me...I Know What I'm Doing

Play Episode Listen Later May 27, 2025 52:12


Abhay welcomes Sanjay Sharma, founder and CEO of Marginal Media Works, for a candid and thought-provoking conversation about the power of the margins in shaping culture, creativity, and identity.Sanjay shares his journey from growing up immersed in subcultures like skateboarding, heavy metal, and hip hop, to building a media company dedicated to amplifying voices and stories that exist at the intersections—across race, gender, sexuality, and more. Together, Abhay and Sanjay explore how “the coolest shit happens in the margins,” why authenticity matters in an era of rapid commercialization, and how intersectionality and fluid identity are transforming both the business and art of storytelling.The discussion touches on reimagining classic genres through new perspectives, the evolving landscape of representation in Hollywood, and the challenges and opportunities of navigating today's shifting sociopolitical climate. Sanjay also reflects on the importance of pattern recognition, staying connected to emerging trends, and the ongoing need to redefine what it means to belong—both on screen and off.(0:00 - 3:13) Introduction(3:13) Part 1 - prioritizing margins, politics and the moving margins(20:45) Part 2 - centers of capital and power, intersections of tech and media(34:10) Part 3 - labels and identity, optimismDon't forget to subscribe, review, follow along, and share! 

Beyond 6 Seconds
Autism Inclusion in the Christian Church – with Sunita Theiss

Beyond 6 Seconds

Play Episode Listen Later May 26, 2025 34:01


CW: Eating disorder, death of a parent. Sunita Theiss is an autistic, ADHD and PDA* parent, writer, and advocate. A second-generation Indian American, she has a rich background in communications, marketing, and storytelling, and has found several ways to support and encourage families raising neurodivergent kids. Sunita is passionate about creating opportunities for culturally responsive support in a way that helps families honor both their values and their children's needs. She is a regular contributor to PDA North America's Insights and Key Ministry's blog, and her writing has been featured in many publications, including Business Insider and Christianity Today.  *PDA is most often defined as Pathological Demand Avoidance or Pervasive Drive for Autonomy. During this episode, you will hear Sunita talk about: Discovering her own neurodivergence after she had her children Her experience growing up as an undiagnosed neurodivergent kid in a South Asian family in the U.S. state of Georgia How raising her children has affected how she views her neurodivergence Growing up in the Hindu community and living as a Christian as an adult Writing about her experience in church as a neurodivergent parent of neurodivergent children How “low demand parenting” works for her and her family Join Sunita's writing workshop and/or coaching services: A Story Only You Can Tell: A Writing Gathering for Parents of Neurodivergent Kids – use the code CAROLYN for $10 off Sunita's writing workshop (scheduled for 6/26/2025) Low Demand Parenting Coaching - use the code SUNITA15 for $15 off Read Sunita's writing at sunitatheiss.com/writing, on Instagram @sunitatheiss and on Substack. The book that Sunita mentions in this episode is called “The Myth of Good Christian Parenting” by Kelsey McGinnis and Marissa Burt. Watch the video of this interview on YouTube. Read the episode transcript. Follow the Beyond 6 Seconds podcast in your favorite podcast player. Subscribe to the FREE Beyond 6 Seconds newsletter for early access to new episodes. Support or sponsor this podcast at BuyMeACoffee.com/Beyond6Seconds! *Disclaimer: The views, guidance, opinions, and thoughts expressed in Beyond 6 Seconds episodes are solely mine and/or those of my guests, and do not necessarily represent those of my employer or other organizations. These episodes are for informational purposes only and do not substitute for professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional or healthcare provider if you are seeking medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment.*

The Whole Care Network
Bridging Cultural Care Economy Gaps with Paurvi Bhatt

The Whole Care Network

Play Episode Listen Later May 15, 2025 62:15


In May we pay tribute to the generations of Asian and Pacific Islanders who have enriched America's history and are instrumental in its future success. This caregiver spotlight episode echoes all of these sentiments. Meet Paurvi Bhatt, a dedicated family caregiver, care advocate, and second-generation Indian American with deep personal and professional caregiving experience. Raised in a family of caregivers, Paurvi spent nearly 30 years balancing her career as a ‘working daughter' while managing caregiving responsibilities. In this episode of the Happy Healthy Caregiver podcast, we explore critical gaps in the U.S. care economy, particularly for first- and second-generation immigrants, including challenges with language, care plans, and services. We also discuss the concept of “shadow resumes” and how the skills we develop as family caregivers not only support our loved ones but also enhance our professional lives. Paurvi shares how she built a strong care team as an only adult child, the resources that helped her navigate caregiving, and the impactful work being done by the Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregivers. Plus, we get a glimpse into what she would do if she had unlimited time for herself! Show notes with product and resource links: https://bit.ly/HHCPod204 Receive the podcast in your email here: http://bit.ly/2G4qvBv Order a copy of Elizabeth's book Just for You: a Daily Self Care Journal: http://bit.ly/HHCjournal For podcast sponsorship opportunities contact Elizabeth: https://happyhealthycaregiver.com/contact-us/ The Happy Healthy Caregiver podcast is part of the Whole Care Network. Rate and Review the podcast: https://bit.ly/HHCPODREVIEW

Happy Healthy Caregiver
Bridging Cultural Care Economy Gaps with Paurvi Bhatt

Happy Healthy Caregiver

Play Episode Listen Later May 7, 2025 62:15


In May we pay tribute to the generations of Asian and Pacific Islanders who have enriched America's history and are instrumental in its future success. This caregiver spotlight episode echoes all of these sentiments. Meet Paurvi Bhatt, a dedicated family caregiver, care advocate, and second-generation Indian American with deep personal and professional caregiving experience. Raised in a family of caregivers, Paurvi spent nearly 30 years balancing her career as a ‘working daughter' while managing caregiving responsibilities. In this episode of the Happy Healthy Caregiver podcast, we explore critical gaps in the U.S. care economy, particularly for first- and second-generation immigrants, including challenges with language, care plans, and services. We also discuss the concept of “shadow resumes” and how the skills we develop as family caregivers not only support our loved ones but also enhance our professional lives. Paurvi shares how she built a strong care team as an only adult child, the resources that helped her navigate caregiving, and the impactful work being done by the Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregivers. Plus, we get a glimpse into what she would do if she had unlimited time for herself! Show notes with product and resource links: https://bit.ly/HHCPod204 Receive the podcast in your email here: http://bit.ly/2G4qvBv Order a copy of Elizabeth's book Just for You: a Daily Self Care Journal: http://bit.ly/HHCjournal For podcast sponsorship opportunities contact Elizabeth: https://happyhealthycaregiver.com/contact-us/ The Happy Healthy Caregiver podcast is part of the Whole Care Network. Rate and Review the podcast: https://bit.ly/HHCPODREVIEW

Trust Me...I Know What I'm Doing
Karan Soni... on "A Nice Indian Boy", lessons in Hollywood, and his life on both sides of the camera

Trust Me...I Know What I'm Doing

Play Episode Listen Later May 6, 2025 54:37


Actor, director, and producer, Karan Soni joins Abhay to talk about his latest film A Nice Indian Boy (directed by Roshan Sethi), share lessons from his journey, and some of  the cultural nuances of being an Indian American in Hollywood. He reflects on the importance of versatility in acting, the duality of creative roles, and the significance of downtime for personal growth. Soni emphasizes the need for authentic representation in media and the power of storytelling to foster empathy and understanding. He also touches on the challenges and rewards of navigating the entertainment industry, ultimately expressing a desire to create work that uplifts and resonates with diverse audiences. Of note: proper name pronunciation was celebrated, and no blood tests were ordered.  (0:00 - 2:50) Introduction(2:50) Part 1 - being an endearing artist, life on both sides of the camera, learning and un-learning(19:50) Part 2 - letting go from each role, craft and practice, downtime and privacy, from Delhi to LA(40:24) Part 3 - empowerment from A Nice Indian Boy, working with Roshan Sethi, labels, audience take aways(52:51) Conclusion

Thinking Bhakti
Becoming Yourself Through Music | Thinking Bhakti Podcast EP36

Thinking Bhakti

Play Episode Listen Later May 2, 2025 52:02


Meet Mahesh Kale, an Indian-American classical vocalist and playback singer renowned for his specialization in Indian Classical music, sharing deep insights into his life. He is one of the most prominent Indian Classical musicians of the new generation.How did it all start for him to develop such a passion for music? What does it mean to travel around the world, and how can someone develop such a love for music?His answers are fascinating, and in the end, he gives everyone hope by sharing that basically, everyone can sing—but one main ingredient is needed.Watch Thinking Bhakti on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@SwamiRevatikaantaofficial

Everyone Talks To Liz Claman – FOX News Radio
Code Breaker: "Girls Who Code" founder Reshma Saujani's Tech Revolution

Everyone Talks To Liz Claman – FOX News Radio

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 26, 2025 41:06


"If at first you don't succeed, try, try again" is far easier said than done, yet if anyone's story exemplifies why we shouldn't let failure stand in our way, it's Girls Who Code founder Reshma Saujani. From applying to Yale Law School three times before being accepted, to becoming the first Indian American woman to run for Congress, Reshma refused to let "no" stop her from succeeding.  Saujani joins Liz to discuss how this tenacity ultimately led her to create the nonprofit Girls Who Code, which has now taught over 700,000 girls and women to code across the country. She shares how being the daughter of immigrants drove her to want to make an impact in America, the country responsible for saving her parents' lives after they were expelled from Uganda. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ojas Oasisâ„¢ - Ayurvedic Wisdom and Healing
The Truth About Cannabis, Ayurveda, and Healthcare Economics with Smrita Choubey

Ojas Oasisâ„¢ - Ayurvedic Wisdom and Healing

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 21, 2025 89:49


Smrita Choubey, founder of Veda Warrior, is an Indian-American entrepreneur with a unique blend of expertise in healthcare, corporate strategy, and indigenous healing systems. Smrita's journey has taken her from the world of high finance to the forefront of holistic wellness.A University of Chicago economics alumn and an MBA graduate from Columbia Business School, she began her career in healthcare investment banking at J.P. Morgan, where she gained firsthand insight into the challenges and conflicts within the American healthcare system. Determined to create meaningful change, she built Veda Warrior, assembling a world-class team of scientists, researchers, traditional healers, and manufacturing experts. Their mission? To craft plant-based remedies that honor ancient traditions while meeting the demands of modern life.At the heart of Veda Warrior is a powerful vision: to challenge the profit-driven healthcare model and redefine wellness beyond just the absence of disease. True well-being, as Smrita and her team believe, is about operating at the peak of one's human potential—where physical health, mental clarity, and spiritual peace align to create a life of purpose, joy, success, and abundance. Rooted in Ayurveda, their approach bridges the gap between time-tested wisdom and modern science, offering individuals personalized tools to take charge of their own health.In this episode, we explore Smrita's journey, the role of Cannabis in Ayurveda, the historical and economic forces behind Cannabis prohibition, reclaiming Feminine wisdom, the economic potential for Ayurveda, and her vision for integrative wellness. Smrita is not only the founder of Veda Warrior, she is a Veda Warrior. Championing  and teaching this wisdom science is deep within her DNA, and we are so excited to know each other and work together in this shared Dharma of bringing Ayurveda to modern life in the West. Send us a textSupport the showTo learn more about us, please visit www.OjasOasis.com Connect with us @ojasoasis on Instagram

The Greatness Machine
346 | Naveen Jain (Part 2) | How to Raise Moonshot Kids

The Greatness Machine

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 9, 2025 66:32


How do you raise children to think beyond limits and create meaningful change? Visionary entrepreneur Naveen Jain joins Darius on The Greatness Machine for a fascinating conversation on leadership, innovation, and the power of exponential thinking. He shares how a simple promise led to a $5 billion stock surge, the importance of resilience in entrepreneurship, and why curiosity is the key to solving the world's biggest challenges. Naveen also reveals his unique approach to parenting—raising children to be problem-solvers rather than rule-followers—and how this mindset has shaped his own success. In this episode, Darius and Naveen will discuss: (00:00) Introduction to Purposeful Living (02:59) Naveen Jain's Journey and Philosophy (06:13) Personalized Health and Nutrition Insights (09:08) Parenting and Raising Entrepreneurial Children (12:00) The Role of Exposure in Child Development (15:00) Fostering Curiosity and Critical Thinking (18:09) Redefining Success and Self-Worth (20:50) The Nature vs. Nurture Debate in Success (33:07) Wealth and Parenting: The Balance of Privilege (35:59) Teaching Kids the Value of Money and Contribution (38:51) Instilling a Sense of Purpose and Service (41:57) Fostering Intellectual Curiosity and Creativity (44:07) The Role of Unconditional Love in Parenting (49:02) Navigating Work-Life Integration as a Parent (51:59) Lessons on Partnerships and Decision-Making (55:04) Final Thoughts: The Importance of Intellectual Curiosity Naveen Jain is an Indian-American entrepreneur and business executive known for founding InfoSpace, which was once one of the largest internet companies in the American Northwest. Following the dot-com bubble crash, he shifted his focus to groundbreaking ventures in space exploration and health technology. He co-founded Moon Express in 2010, where he serves as Executive Chairman, and later founded Viome in 2016, where he is currently the CEO. Listen to the first episode here: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/304-naveen-jain-part-1-moonshots-and-mindset-why-big/id1555334180?i=1000672328585  Sponsored by: Huel: Try Huel with 15% OFF + Free Gift for New Customers today using my code greatness at https://huel.com/greatness. Fuel your best performance with Huel today! Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/DARIUS. NPR Tech Unheard Podcast: Tune into Tech Unheard from Arm and NPM—wherever you get your podcasts. Shipstation: Go to shipstation.com and use code GREATNESS to sign up for your FREE trial. Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius.  Connect with Naveen: Website: https://naveenjain.com/ Website: https://www.viome.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/naveenjainintelius Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/naveenjainceo/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/Naveen_Jain_CEO  Connect with Darius: Website: https://therealdarius.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imthedarius/ YouTube: https://therealdarius.com/youtube Book: The Core Value Equation https://www.amazon.com/Core-Value-Equation-Framework-Limitless/dp/1544506708 Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

DENNIS ANYONE? with Dennis Hensley
Filmmaker Roshan Sethi ("A Nice Indian Boy"): "Love Occurs In The Context Of Your Family"

DENNIS ANYONE? with Dennis Hensley

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 3, 2025 37:53


Dennis connects via Zoom with Roshan Sethi, director of the new film A Nice Indian Boy, which is about and Indian-American doctor named Naveen (Roshan's real-life boyfriend Karan Soni) who falls who falls for a photographer named Jay (Jonathan Groff), who is white but who was adopted and raised by Indian-American parents. Complications ensue when Naveen brings Jay home to meet his family. Roshan talks about the film's origins as a stage play, directing his real life boyfriend Karan Soni in love scenes with Jonathan Groff and the movie's theme of negotiating life after coming out and how big or small do you want to play in terms of being your true self. Roshan also talks about his second career as a doctor and how he works several months a year at the Dana Farber Cancer Institute in Boston, Massachusetts. Other topics include: what gay life is like in India, being mentored by indie mainstay Mark Duplass, how Jonathan Groff leads from love all the time, not being allowed to watch Hollywood movies growing up and the moment from making A Nice Indian Boy that he knows he'll never forget.

Moonshots with Peter Diamandis
AI Entrepreneurs Q&A: How Every Industry Is About to Be Transformed by Humanoids w/ Vinod Khosla & Brett Adcock | EP #160

Moonshots with Peter Diamandis

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 2, 2025 35:37


In this episode, recorded at the 2025 Abundance Summit, Vinod, Brett, & Peter dive into a Q&A on the future of humanoid robots, transport, and more. Recorded on March 11th, 2025 Views are my own thoughts; not Financial, Medical, or Legal Advice. Vinod Khosla is an Indian-American entrepreneur and venture capitalist. He co-founded Sun Microsystems in 1982, serving as its first chairman and CEO. In 2004, he founded Khosla Ventures, focusing on technology and social impact investments. As of January 2025, his net worth is estimated at $9.2 billion. He is known for his bold bets on transformative innovations in fields like AI, robotics, healthcare, and clean energy. With a deep belief in abundance and the power of technology to solve global challenges, Khosla continues to shape the future through visionary investing. ​Brett Adcock is an American technology entrepreneur and the founder of Figure, an AI robotics company developing general-purpose humanoid robots designed to perform human-like tasks in both industrial and home settings. In 2023, he also founded Cover, an AI security company focused on building weapon detection systems for schools. Previously, Brett founded Archer Aviation, an urban air mobility company that went public at a valuation of $2.7 billion, and Vettery, a machine learning-based talent marketplace acquired for $110 million.  Learn about Figure: https://www.figure.ai/  Learn more about Vinod: https://www.khoslaventures.com/  Learn more about Abundance360: https://bit.ly/ABUNDANCE360  For free access to the Abundance Summit Summary click: diamandis.com/breakthroughs  ____________ I only endorse products and services I personally use. To see what they are,  please support this podcast by checking out our sponsors:  Get started with Fountain Life and become the CEO of your health: https://fountainlife.com/peter/ AI-powered precision diagnosis you NEED for a healthy gut: https://www.viome.com/peter  Get 15% off OneSkin with the code PETER at  https://www.oneskin.co/ #oneskinpod ____________ I send weekly emails with the latest insights and trends on today's and tomorrow's exponential technologies. Stay ahead of the curve, and sign up now:  Blog _____________ Connect With Peter: Twitter Instagram Youtube Moonshots

Rubirosa
You are The Obstacle w/ Anirudh Pisharody

Rubirosa

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 2, 2025 40:37


This week we are connecting with the one and only Anirudh Pisharody, an Indian American actor from Fox's 911 and Never Have I Ever. We chat all about craft, acting, being role models, taking risks, and being our biggest obstacles! It's a beautiful episode. Enjoy!

Ken LaCorte: Big Pod
How Indian Immigrants Get Richer Than EVERYONE

Ken LaCorte: Big Pod

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 2, 2025 9:52


Indian Americans have the highest income in the U.S. ... by far.  I found that fascinating and wanted to figure out the reasons why. Here you go! Jump to:00:00 Intro01:38 India's A Mess02:21 Selective Immigration03:43 Education04:35 Career Selection05:29 CultureYou can find Ken on ... YOUTUBE:  https://m.youtube.com/@ElephantsInRoomsTWITTER:  https://x.com/Elephants_Rooms SUBSTACK: https://kenlacorte.substack.com/ RUMBLE: https://rumble.com/c/KenLaCorte

Moonshots with Peter Diamandis
AI Venture Capitalist: These Tech Predictions Will Change Everything by 2030 w/ Vinod Khosla | EP #159

Moonshots with Peter Diamandis

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 1, 2025 30:29


In this episode, recorded at the 2025 Abundance Summit, Vinod Khosla explores how AI will make expertise essentially free, why robots could surpass the auto industry, and how technologies like geothermal and fusion will reshape our energy landscape. Recorded on March 11th, 2025 Views are my own thoughts; not Financial, Medical, or Legal Advice. Vinod Khosla is an Indian-American entrepreneur and venture capitalist. He co-founded Sun Microsystems in 1982, serving as its first chairman and CEO. In 2004, he founded Khosla Ventures, focusing on technology and social impact investments. As of January 2025, his net worth is estimated at $9.2 billion. He is known for his bold bets on transformative innovations in fields like AI, robotics, healthcare, and clean energy. With a deep belief in abundance and the power of technology to solve global challenges, Khosla continues to shape the future through visionary investing. Learn more about Vinod: https://www.khoslaventures.com/  Learn more about Abundance360: https://bit.ly/ABUNDANCE360  For free access to the Abundance Summit Summary click: diamandis.com/breakthroughs  ____________ I only endorse products and services I personally use. To see what they are,  please support this podcast by checking out our sponsors:  Get started with Fountain Life and become the CEO of your health: https://fountainlife.com/peter/ AI-powered precision diagnosis you NEED for a healthy gut: https://www.viome.com/peter  Get 15% off OneSkin with the code PETER at  https://www.oneskin.co/ #oneskinpod ____________ I send weekly emails with the latest insights and trends on today's and tomorrow's exponential technologies. Stay ahead of the curve, and sign up now:  Blog _____________ Connect With Peter: Twitter Instagram Youtube Moonshots

Soul Boom
Hasan Minhaj: Does Comedy Matter if the World is on Fire?

Soul Boom

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 27, 2025 77:31


Hasan Minhaj (Off With His Head, The Patriot Act, Homecoming King) joins Rainn Wilson for a vulnerable and inspiring dive into the purpose of comedy, the search for meaning, and the power of storytelling. They explore Hasan's spiritual upbringing, his journey through stand-up and fame, and how his faith and Indian-American identity have shaped his worldview. From reflections on Ramadan to insights about art's true value, this episode is rich with heart, humor, and depth. Rainn and Hasan discuss why comedy may be one of the last places where truth and hope collide in meaningful ways. This episode is brought to you by... Stamps.com: Get a 4-week trial, free postage, and a digital scale

Break the Barrier
Sometimes It's Kismat with Nimesh Patel: Comedian & Emmy-Nominated Writer, ex-SNL

Break the Barrier

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 26, 2025 42:13


What does it mean to Nimesh to break the barrier? Just start doing I'm so excited to be speaking today with Nimesh Patel, a comedian and Emmy-nominated writer. Nimesh made history in 2017 as the first Indian American writer for Saturday Night Live. Beyond SNL, Nimesh has written for events like the academy awards and the White House Correspondents' Dinner, working alongside big names like Chris Rock and Hasan Minhaj. In this episode we cover:1. His journey from graduating with a finance degree at NYU to getting the blessing from Chris Rock which lit the fire in him to pursue comedy full force  2. His first stand up gig  and early experiences, including navigating expectations from his family 3. His breakthrough: being the first Indian American writer for SNL and its aftermath 4. His resilience in the face of setbacks and the role of social media in career growth 5. His personal defining moments of success 6. A day in the life, including balancing fatherhood with comedy and being a husband 7. Future projects (including tidbits from his upcoming Netflix special, Instant Karma, airing soon!) and advice for aspiring comedians So let's dive right into it. Welcome, Nimesh!To reach Nimesh for mentorship or guidance, his Instagram account is @findingnimeshThank you all for tuning in to the Break the Barrier podcast. If you liked this episode, please leave a review, share on your social platforms, and follow @ambilyxx for more

Bookey App 30 mins Book Summaries Knowledge Notes and More
Unlocking Abundance: A Summary of The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success Audiobook

Bookey App 30 mins Book Summaries Knowledge Notes and More

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 25, 2025 19:04


Part 1 The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success by Deepak Chopra Summary"The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success" by Deepak Chopra presents a holistic approach to achieving success in life that goes beyond material wealth and focuses on spiritual fulfillment. Here's a brief summary of each law:The Law of Pure Potentiality: This law emphasizes that our true essence is pure consciousness, where all possibilities exist. To harness this potential, one must practice silence, meditation, and connection to nature, enabling us to tap into our creativity and inner wisdom.The Law of Giving and Receiving: This principle underscores the universe's flow of energy, highlighting that giving and receiving are two sides of the same coin. To create abundance, one must freely give love, attention, and appreciation to others, thus allowing for the flow of energy and abundance back to oneself.The Law of Karma (Cause and Effect): This law states that every action has consequences. By acknowledging that our choices shape our lives, we can act with intention and make decisions that lead to positive outcomes and fulfill our deepest desires.The Law of Least Effort: This law promotes the idea of acceptance and non-resistance. By aligning with nature and going with the flow of life, one can achieve their goals more effortlessly. Embracing acceptance, responsibility, and defenselessness allows for a more serene approach to challenges.The Law of Intention and Desire: Intention energizes our desires. When one sets clear intentions and aligns their energy with that intention, it creates a powerful force for manifestation. Visualizing our desires helps to attract them into our lives.The Law of Detachment: This law teaches the importance of letting go of attachment to outcomes. By being open to possibilities and trusting the process, we create a space where true action can occur. Detachment brings freedom from expectations and increases joy in the present moment.The Law of Dharma (Life Purpose): Everyone has a unique purpose in life, and discovering and following this purpose leads to fulfillment and joy. By serving others and using our unique talents, we contribute to the greater good while finding true happiness.Overall, Chopra's laws encourage a shift in perspective from external accomplishments to internal spiritual development, suggesting that true success stems from a fulfilling relationship with oneself and the universe.Part 2 The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success AuthorDeepak Chopra is an Indian-American author, public speaker, alternative medicine advocate, and a prominent voice in the fields of spirituality and personal development. He was born on October 22, 1946, in New Delhi, India. Chopra trained as a medical doctor and has since incorporated elements of spirituality and well-being into his teachings and practices. The Seven Spiritual Laws of SuccessDeepak Chopra released his most well-known book, "The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success," in 1994. This book distills the essence of spiritual principles into practical techniques that can be applied in everyday life to achieve success more effortlessly. Fill the content with insights derived from ancient Vedic traditions, Chopra integrates them with modern thinking on success and abundance. Other Notable BooksChopra has written numerous books throughout his career, many of which have become bestsellers. Some of his notable works include:Ageless Body, Timeless Mind (1993) Focuses on longevity and the mind-body connection.The Path to Love (1997) Explores love, relationships, and emotional fulfillment.The Book of Secrets: Unlocking the Hidden Dimensions of Your Life (2004) A guide to understanding the mysteries of life.What Are You Hungry For? (2013) Discusses emotional eating and food choices in relation to spiritual and emotional health.The Healing Self (2018)...

Trust Me...I Know What I'm Doing
Abdullah Saeed... on Deli Boys, explosive turns, and simplicity

Trust Me...I Know What I'm Doing

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 18, 2025 48:34


Abhay is joined by the creator of the Hulu series Deli Boys, Abdullah Saeed, to chat about everything from vulnerability and courage with storytelling, to cultivating trust on this project, to weaving partition into the show, to finding comfort and humor in the absurd.  Simpsons and Tan France references were part of the overall gentle charm of this conversation.(0:00 - 2:54) Introduction(2:54) Part 1 - Underachieving, Courage and vulnerability(15:02) Part 2 - Comedy juxtapositions, South Asian cultural approaches in American storytelling(34:45) Part 3 - Explosive turns, Building trust, Mirrors and windows, longevity(46:52) Conclusion

With & For / Dr. Pam King
Recovering the Sacred in an Age of Anxiety, with Dr. Varun Soni

With & For / Dr. Pam King

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 17, 2025 79:27


We need a recovery of the sacred in our secular world. Because the mental, emotional, and psychological struggles haunting society right now can't be solved without addressing meaning, purpose, and the longing for connection to something beyond ourselves.In other words, spiritual health is an essential part of mental health.An attorney, religious scholar, and university chaplain, Dr. Varun Soni is Dean of Religious Life at the University of Southern California, and is leading us back to our true north, through spacious and life-giving spiritual conversations and sacred practices that realign us to our values and identity.In this conversation with Varun Soni, we discuss:Finding the sacred in our secular culture.Religious pluralism and what it means to build trust that reaches across religious lines of difference.The transformative power of finding your “truth north”—your North Star—to orient our journeys of faith and spirituality.Varun shares six pillars of flourishing; how to align our actions with our values; and the benefit of listening to the cultural narratives and stories we tell.He reflects on the missing elements of spirituality in our understanding of mental health today, evidenced in his work with teens and emerging adults.He offers us a Hindu meditative practice to provide inner clarity, stability, and calm.And he comments on compassion and a cultivation sacred spiritual practices to counteract the loneliness, anguish, and suffering in our world.Show NotesDr. Pam King welcomes Varun Soni, Dean of Religious and Spiritual Life at USCJourney from Hindu attorney to first Hindu Dean of Religious and Spiritual Life in the U.S.“What does it mean to be Indian? What does it mean to be Hindu? What does it mean to be American? What is this Indian American experience?”1965 Immigration and Naturalization ActInspired by grandfather's connection to Mahatma Gandhi“ What it meant to be Hindu was to be like Gandhi. What it meant to be Indian was to be like Gandhi. What it meant to live a meaningful life was to live like Gandhi.”“ I continued to study religion as a way of understanding myself.”Sitting with the Dalai Lama on Mahatma Gandhi's birthdayMentorship from the Dalai LamaDeepak Chopra's influence“Interfaith trust building”University ChaplaincyWhat is thriving to you?"Thriving is the alignment of purpose and practice—it's not about arriving, but about moving in the right direction."“What is my north star, and how do I get there?”Spiritual well-being about asking the right questions, not having all the answersReligion once provided meaning, rituals, and community—now young people seek new structures"What is sacred to you? If you can't answer that, you're drifting without a compass."The urgency of time when turning 50 years old“I'm not trying to prove anything to anyone anymore.”“Put the process before the answer.”6 pillars of thriving and well-being: diet, sleep, exercise, contemplative practice, emotional intelligence, connection to natureBasic physical pillars of thriving: Diet, Sleep, ExerciseSpiritual pillars of thriving: Contemplation, Emotional Intelligence, and Communing with NatureFinding what is sacred—faith, relationships, personal values51% of USC students non-religious, 80% spiritualRecord levels of loneliness, imposter syndrome, comparison culture“Not just a mental health crisis, but a spiritual health crisis.”Loss of intergenerational religious experiences—key protective factor against depression"We took away religion and replaced it with social media, then wondered why anxiety skyrocketed."Social media fuels disconnection rather than community"We weren't built for this much bad news. Our brains weren't designed to process global suffering 24/7."“There's no right way to do contemplative practice.”Find moments built into your dayExercise: So Hum breath meditation: Inhale “So,” exhale “Hum”Using meditation as a spiritual technology or tool"You are not your thoughts—you are the awareness behind them."Identity shaped by personal narrative—"If you don't like your story, rewrite it."Telling the story of who you will become"Every individual is the hero of their own journey, whether they realize it or not."Cultural mythology, from sacred texts to Marvel movies, reflects search for meaningSpirituality helps build redemptive life narratives“There power in being part of something bigger.”The Spiritual Child by Lisa Miller—research on spirituality and mental health"It's hard to hate the people you love—universities are one of the last places where people can learn to love each other across differences."Technology and mediated relationshipsWhat is sacred to you?"Gen Z's greatest superpower is empathy, but they've never been lonelier."Building protective factors for young peopleGratitude rituals shift focus from anxiety to appreciationCare, justice, and connectionMental Health CrisisMental Health and Spiritual HealthAwe-inspiring moments—nature, music, relationships—essential to well-being"Awe, wonder, and gratitude aren't luxuries—they're survival tools."“You can't doom-scroll your way to joy. Presence and connection matter.”Religious institutions declining, but human need for transcendence remainsCreating new rituals and meaning-making for a secular generation"Spiritual health is just as important as mental health—ignore it, and you miss a key part of the equation."What is your North Star? What gets you up in the morning?How do your daily practices align purpose and action?How do the stories you tell shape your identity and thriving?Try So Hum meditation as a daily mindfulness practiceEngage in one act of gratitude—write a note, express appreciation, savor a momentIt's all too easy to fragment our lives into secular and sacred, but thriving and spiritual health require wholeness and integration of every aspect of ourselves, including our faith and spirituality.Future generations of leaders need our guidance and support in their connection to community and their search for meaning, purpose, and hope.Keep your seat-belt firmly fastened, your seat-back upright, tray table stowed, and secure your own spiritual oxygen mask before assisting others.We can counteract the outrage, anxiety, and information overload with simple, daily practices that bring stability and clarity.We thrive when we align our actions and our values, our behavior with our beliefs, and our practices with our purpose.About Varun SoniVarun Soni is the Dean of Religious Life at the University of Southern California. He received his B.A. degree in Religion from Tufts University, where he also earned an Asian Studies minor and completed the Program in Peace and Justice Studies. He subsequently received his M.T.S. degree from Harvard Divinity School and his M.A. degree through the Department of Religious Studies at the University of California, Santa Barbara. He went on to receive his J.D. degree from University of California, Los Angeles School of Law, where he also completed the Critical Race Studies Program and served as an editor for the Journal of Islamic and Near Eastern Law. He earned his Ph.D. through the Department of Religious Studies at the University of Cape Town, where his doctoral research focused on religion and popular culture. As an undergraduate student, Dean Soni spent a semester living in a Buddhist monastery in Bodh Gaya, India through Antioch University's Buddhist Studies Program. As a graduate student, he spent months doing field research in South Asia through UCSB's Center for Sikh and Punjab Studies.Dean Soni is currently a University Fellow at USC Annenberg's Center on Public Diplomacy and an Adjunct Professor at the USC School of Religion. He is the author of Natural Mystics: The Prophetic Lives of Bob Marley and Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan (Figueroa Press, 2014) and his writings have appeared in the Washington Post, Huffington Post, Crosscurrents, Jewish Journal, and Harvard Divinity Bulletin. He produced the critically acclaimed graphic novel Tina's Mouth: An Existential Comic Diary by Keshni Kashyap, which is currently being adapted as a feature length film. He also produced and hosted his own radio show on KPFK-Pacifica that showcased music from South Asia and its diaspora. In 2009, he was one of the organizers of the historic Concert for Pakistan, a benefit concert at the United Nations General Assembly Hall featuring Salman Ahmad, Sting, Outlandish, Jeff Skoll, Deepak Chopra, and Melissa Etheridge.Dean Soni is a member of the State Bar of California, the American Academy of Religion, and the Association for College and University Religious Affairs. He is on the advisory board for the Center for Muslim-Jewish Engagement, Journal for Interreligious Dialogue, Hindu American Seva Charities, Future45, and the Parliament of the World's Religion. Prior to joining USC, Dean Soni spent four years teaching in the Law and Society Program at UCSB. Born in India and raised in Southern California, he has family on five continents and they collectively represent every major religious tradition in the world. About the Thrive CenterLearn more at thethrivecenter.org.Follow us on Instagram @thrivecenterFollow us on X @thrivecenterFollow us on LinkedIn @thethrivecenter About Dr. Pam KingDr. Pam King is Executive Director the Thrive Center and is Peter L. Benson Professor of Applied Developmental Science at Fuller School of Psychology & Marriage and Family Therapy. Follow her @drpamking. About With & ForHost: Pam KingSenior Director and Producer: Jill WestbrookOperations Manager: Lauren KimSocial Media Graphic Designer: Wren JuergensenConsulting Producer: Evan RosaSpecial thanks to the team at Fuller Studio and the Fuller School of Psychology & Marriage and Family Therapy.