Podcast appearances and mentions of sara hamdan

What if the thing that made you feel “too much” growing up is the very thing meant to set you free?In this powerful episode of The Brave Table, I sit down with my brilliant and bold friend, Sara Hamdan—former New York Times journalist, Googler, and now debut novelist of What Will People Think?. We explore the messy, joyful, and deeply human journey of writing fiction that challenges cultural expectations, honors Palestinian identity, and makes space for Arab women to be funny, flawed, and fierce.From Mia, the Arab stand-up comic at the center of her story, to Sara's own decade-long battle with self-doubt, motherhood, and creative dreams—we go there. This isn't just a conversation about publishing a book. It's about daring to live a life that's fully your own, even when the world wants you to shrink. You're going to feel cracked open, seen, and inspired to finally go after that dream. Yeah, the one you've been hiding.What you'll get out of this episode… The behind-the-scenes story of how What Will People Think? took 10 years to write—and why it was worth every momentHow Sara Hamdan turned cultural pressure into powerful creative fuelThe mindset shift that helped her stop writing for validation and start writing for herselfWhy Arab women deserve to be hilarious, heartbroken, bold, and human on the pageWhat it really looks like to chase a creative dream while raising a family and working full-timeInsight into how fiction can become a vehicle for healing generational shameHow comedy became the most powerful tool in rewriting her identity and reclaiming her voiceWhat happens when you stop asking for permission—and write the story you've never seen toldConnect with SaraWEB / sarahamdan.comIG / @bysarahamdanLINKEDIN / @sara-hamdan-writerBOOK / What Will People Think? Want more?

New novels by Sara Hamdan and Elaine Goldsmith-Thomas follow women in the entertainment industry who must balance ambition with the pressures of family, friendship and love. First, in What Will People Think?, a Palestinian-American woman named Mia works as a fact checker by day and performs standup comedy by night. She hides her comedy career in order to protect her family until she discovers her grandmother has a secret too. In today's episode, Hamdan joins NPR's Ailsa Chang for a conversation about the politicization of the Palestinian identity and using comedy to explore cultural stereotypes. Then, in Climbing in Heels, three women working as secretaries at a Hollywood agency face sexism as they aspire to careers beyond their office jobs. In today's episode, Goldsmith-Thomas talks with NPR's Leila Fadel about moving from secretary to agent in her own career.To listen to Book of the Day sponsor-free and support NPR's book coverage, sign up for Book of the Day+ at plus.npr.org/bookofthedayLearn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Singer Chappell Roan's comments that her friends with kids are living in 'hell' sparked a huge online debate this week - but why? Dr Thoraiya joins Jen Crichton to unpick our collective inability to scroll past content we don’t relate to. We marked World Autism Day with Occupational Therapist Adam Griffin and Dr Alexandre Machaeo who both say it's time we advance from awareness of to truly understanding neurodiversity. And we hear from UAE-based author Sara Hamdan, whose recent record-breaking book deal has put her in the spotlight as an ambassador for Middle Eastern culture.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hey there, fabulous listeners! Today, we're diving into the inspiring journey of Seema Saroj, the powerhouse behind Vedisaah Luxuries and a passionate advocate for sustainable farming. From her roots in a family business to creating a revolutionary brand that empowers farmers and women, Seema's story is one of resilience, innovation, and heart. So pull up a seat Brave Table fam, and get ready for a conversation that's as enlightening as it is heartwarming!  What you'll get out of this episode…  Daring to think differently, innovation and entrepreneurship in farming The ripple effect: how brave ventures create lasting community impact Sustainable agriculture and the importance of supporting local farmers Forging Your Unique Identity: Navigating Societal Changes and Carving Your Own Path Overcoming Hidden Challenges: The Untold Struggles of Building from Scratch Blending luxury with sustainability, emphasizing plant-based wellness products To receive a free gift, email a screenshot of your 5 star review of The Brave Table to support@globalgrit.co

Hey there, beautiful souls! In this heartfelt episode of The Brave Table, we dive deep with Souniya Khurana, an extraordinary storyteller and entrepreneur who has turned her passion for stories into a thriving content media creation company. Join me, Dr. Neeta Bhushan, as I sit down with a dear friend whose journey is nothing short of inspiring. From her early entrepreneurial ventures to building a creative content business, we discuss the power of storytelling, navigating failures, and the transformative journey of healing tragedy and loss through Vipassana meditation. This episode is packed with wisdom and bravery that will leave you feeling inspired and ready to take on the world. So pull up a seat and let's dive in! What you'll get out of this episode…  Finding the blessings in tragedy and transforming your pain into purpose Embracing storytelling as a superpower  Discover the importance of failure and pivots, and how to leverage it to your advantage   Learn about Vipassana and how it can benefit your own healing journey  Healing through unbearable and heart wrenching loss  Emotional freedom: Why forgiveness and resilience is a powerful ally  To receive a free gift, email a screenshot of your 5 star review of The Brave Table to support@globalgrit.co

Welcome to The Brave Table with Dr. Neeta Bhushan! In this heartwarming and candid episode, we dive deep into generational trauma, resilience, and the power of embracing our true selves. Join me as I welcome a very special guest, my bonus mom, my Bua, for an open-hearted conversation about the challenges and triumphs of growing up in a strict household, navigating cultural expectations, and finding our own path to happiness and success. Get ready for a dose of tough love as we explore the complex dynamics of family relationships and the journey to self-acceptance! So grab a chai, pull up a seat and let's dive into some brave conversations! What you'll get out of this episode…  Embracing all your parts and the depth of your emotional self.  Discover how strict households can foster a strong sense of independence and self-reliance. Influence of cultural and societal expectations on dating and marriage How breaking generational cycles of trauma can lead to healthier relationships and personal growth. Navigating cultural expectations while remaining true to your authentic self. Becoming “Untraditional”: How living with an open mind in a traditional family led to new opportunities.  Why honest and open communication is crucial in family relationships, especially in traditional families. To receive a free gift, email a screenshot of your 5 star review of The Brave Table to support@globalgrit.co

Hey Brave Table Fam! I'm beyond excited to welcome my dear friend Dr. Sahaj Kohli, founder of Brown Girl Therapy and author of the incredible new book, "What Will People Say?" In this episode, we're diving deep into the unique social pressures faced by brown women and immigrant families, and exploring why cultural inclusivity in therapy is absolutely essential. Join us as we open up and share our personal stories, confront our fears and shame, and navigate the intricate dynamics of cultural expectations, family roles, and personal identity. Sahaj sheds light on the transformative power of therapy in emotional expression, helping you rewrite your narrative, set empowering boundaries, and redefine your sense of self. This episode is brimming with valuable insights and resources. Get ready to feel inspired and embrace a deeper, more authentic connection with yourself and your cultural roots! What you'll get out of this episode…  Brown Girl Therapy; the importance of cultural inclusivity and representation for brown families Breaking the “good daughter” narrative, explore the challenges children of Indian immigrants  Uncover the stigma, pride and identity surrounding therapy in older generations Explore the impact of cultural expectations and norms on self-concept and self-esteem "What Will People Say?" Reclaiming your cultural identity To receive a free gift, email a screenshot of your 5 star review of The Brave Table to support@globalgrit.co

Hey Brave Table fam, today we're whisked away to Dubai for a heart-to-heart with my dear friend Tehzeeb Ahmed, communications specialist, knowledge seeker, storyteller, and proud entrepreneur. In this episode, we're spilling the tea on so many juicy topics. From liberated travel to redefining modern friendships, Tehzeeb and I reflect on personal growth, overcoming subconscious fears, and what it means to be brave. Tehzeeb enlightens us on the power of authentic storytelling helping guide brands, people, celebrities, and companies to get their story out, sharing the impact of social media when it comes to humanizing and amplifying your own brand. This episode is a true testament to the courage it takes to foster deep connections and the playful joy of life-long friendships! What you'll get out of this episode…  Discover a new take on modern-day friendships, sisterhood, expectations, and boundaries Learn about family constellations and healing ancestral trauma Unpack the struggles with identity, self-acceptance, travel, and citizenship The importance of authentic storytelling in the age of social media  How to embrace growth and deal with limiting belief systems To receive a free gift, email a screenshot of your 5 star review of The Brave Table to support@globalgrit.co

Hey, Brave Table fam! Today's episode is for anyone who's ever chased a seemingly impossible dream. Today's guest is a journalist-turned-author who spent 10 years crafting a novel to spark a six-figure, two-book deal at an auction – a record-breaking feat for a female author in the Middle East! What you'll get from this episode… How to become the author of your own story, even when the journey takes years. Why there's no better time than now to chase your dreams. The emotional rollercoaster of getting published – the highs, the lows, and everything in between. How a Netflix short story award turned the tide and got agents to take notice finally. How motherhood reshaped her perspective on what truly matters. If you loved this episode, make sure you… Follow us on Instagram @neetabhushan & @thebravetable Connect with Sarah Hamdan here on Instagram - And if you loved this episode, check out: 204: Surviving Cancel Culture and Rising Above The Hate with Julia Mazur Apple | Spotify  198: Build the Life You want by unlocking your next vivid Vision with Jennifer Hudye   Apple | Spotify 152: Unleashing Your Authentic Voice, Navigating Creative Expression & Courageous Conversations at Any Age with Amy Edwards  Apple | Spotify If you are looking to shift and change your career or go deeper into your growth journey, our 6-month container for our dual-certification Dharma Coaching Institute program for Highest Self Institute is now open- join us here and see if it's right for you. Thanks SO much for listening, and I hope you loved this episode! If you did, please consider leaving a 5-star review to help others find and benefit from the show.  After you do, send a screenshot of your review to support@globalgrit.co to receive my gift to you. Thanks for helping us get to the top 50 in Mental Health! So grateful for you all.

21/12/2019: The Best of Adam Sharp by Graeme Simsion weaves a great playlist of songs throughout its story of what happens when you reconnect with your long lost love. And After the End by Clare Mackintosh is the story of a couple who disagree on an impossible choice they have to make as parents. Sara Hamdan - journalist, editor at Think With Google MENA, blogger at holidaysinheels and more, weighs in on these very different reads and recommends some more of her favourites from this past year.

14/09/2019: Former New York Times journalist, blogger at Holidays in Heels and part time editor at Google, Sara Hamdan, joined us in the studio to tell us what books she’s read over Summer – the good, the bad, and the ugly including psychological thriller The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides, non-fiction work My Year of Rest and Relaxation by Ottessa Moshfegh, and The Man Who Didn’t Call by Rosie Walsh.

14/09/2019: Sara Hamdan is joined by Louise Edensor, senior lecturer at Middlesex University to review Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens. A Reese Witherspoon x Hello Sunshine Book Club Pick, it has been described as a painfully beautiful first novel set in the 1960s in a quiet town on the North Carolina coast. 

04/05/2019: From a recently published rom com described as a ‘Sleepless in Seattle for the 21st Century’, to Michelle Obama’s Becoming, a biography of a real-life Scarlett O’Hara who went from rural 19th Century farm girl to European royalty and the best-selling memoir Educated by Tara Westover, this week’s stack of recommendations is a real mix thanks to Think With Google Editor and Holiday in Heels blogger Sara Hamdan.

04/05/2019: Why do we get stressed to the point of burnout? How do we fix it? And is it different for men and women? Reviewing Burnout: The Secret to Unlocking the Stress Cycle by Amelia and Emily Nagoski is president of Ellevate Dubai, creator and presenter of podcast When Women Win and non-fiction aficionado, Rana Nawas.

04/05/2019: Today’s soundtrack is by the 1974 poet laureate of Colorado and inspired by Leon McCarron and Malachy Tallack’s conversation at the 2019 Emirates Airline Festival of Literature about unconventional journeys.

In this episode of Renegade Culture, we go "Palestine 101" the Palestinians fight for their land, resources and lives. Our guests include Sara Hamdan, a Palestinian-Iraqi American who has organized in the Palestine solidarity and liberation movement for 13 years. And Adam Horowitz the Co-Editor of Mondoweiss.net., Adam holds a Masters in Near and Middle Eastern Studies from NYU. Mondoweiss is an independent website devoted to informing readers about developments in Israel/Palestine and related US foreign policy. Music by Maimouna Youseef and Sa Roc Hosted by Kalonji Changa & Kamau Franklin Recorded at Playback Studios in Atlanta, Georgia