That Desi Spark (formerly The Woke Desi): Recent Episodes
ANS Entertainment LLC
That Desi Spark, formerly known as The Woke Desi, is a bold podcast created by three founders who recognized a space void of color and conversation around the topics that impact dual-identity, South Asian millennials the most. From education to entertainment and social justice issues to social media trends, That Desi Spark approaches each episode with compassion, advocacy, and information, bolstered by subject-area experts and unfiltered celebrity moments.
Founded by healthcare manager/author Annika Sharma, marketing whiz/lifestyle blogger Nehal Tenany, and hedge fund trader/producer Sridhar Pisupati, That Desi Spark ignites conversation, illuminates learning, and sparks a community to own their stories, rise up with confidence, and blaze a path forward. The podcast has been featured in the Times of India, at BBC’s CDX, and on Forbes. They have been featured speakers at multiple conferences, ViacomCBS, and universities.
They can be found on the web, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook.
After a long 5 month hiatus...we are back with an update!
We've been acquired!
That Desi Spark has been acquired by Prince Bhojwani of Asana Voices (AV), and TDS and AV have entered a strategic partnership. What does that mean? Annika stays on as host, Nita Bhojwani joins as CEO, and this episode covers all of Annika's thoughts on TDS' latest move. As for the rest, listen and find out! We're up to big things over here. We can't wait to see you along for the ride.
In the mean time, check out The Greatest Hits, a selection of the most listened-to episodes of TDS through its first 8 seasons...and stay tuned for the 9th!
Follow TDS on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter, and catch up with the hosts, Annika and Asana Voices on IG. Until next time, keep lighting That Desi Spark!
Relive some of the highest-rated, most listened-to episodes of That Desi Spark on The Greatest Hits!
Raja Kumari is a force - a Grammy-nominated artist who has collaborated with Fall Out Boy, Gwen Stefani, and more, the face of Mac Cosmetics, nominated three times for the MTV European Music Awards for Best India Act, and made her own label album debut with The Bridge. Speaking to TDS about her career, she jumped into her South Indian roost, what it took to succeed, and how South Asians are having more than a moment.
Listen now to this interview with Raja Kumari conducted during Season 8.
Go to https://betterhelp.com/thatdesispark for 10% off your first month of therapy with
BetterHelp and get matched with a therapist who will listen and help! #sponsored
Follow TDS on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter, and catch up with the hosts, Annika and Asana Voices on IG. Until next time, keep lighting That Desi Spark!
Relive some of the highest-rated, most listened-to episodes of That Desi Spark on The Greatest Hits!
Divya Robin's mental health advice on Instagram has been a blessing. And her conversation and thoughtful consideration around drawing boundaries with South Asian families was a hit. From baby steps to huge changes, she dove into alllll the considerations around drawing lines in your life for your mental health and made this episode one for the books.
Listen now to this interview with Divya conducted during Season 7.
Go to https://betterhelp.com/thatdesispark for 10% off your first month of therapy with
BetterHelp and get matched with a therapist who will listen and help! #sponsored
Follow TDS on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter, and catch up with the hosts, Annika and Asana Voices on IG. Until next time, keep lighting That Desi Spark!
Relive some of the highest-rated, most listened-to episodes of That Desi Spark on The Greatest Hits!
Maitreyi Ramakrishnan shot to fame as lead Devi Vishwakumar on Netflix' Never Have I Ever. Season 4, the final season of the show, aired in May of 2023. Maitreyi joined TDS for an interview that ran over time (sorry, Netflix!) discussing representation, how she coped with the haters, the love she had for the show, and what she hoped to achieve out of her career.
Listen now to this interview with Maitreyi from Season 8.
Go to https://betterhelp.com/thatdesispark for 10% off your first month of therapy with
BetterHelp and get matched with a therapist who will listen and help! #sponsored
Follow TDS on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter, and catch up with the hosts, Annika and Asana Voices on IG. Until next time, keep lighting That Desi Spark!
Relive some of the highest-rated, most listened-to episodes of That Desi Spark on The Greatest Hits!
Ramya Chunduri, LMSW, has been a social worker, counselor, advocate, and founder of Saurya Media. Her extensive work in the South Asian community and with women's centers produced a wealth of knowledge about domestic violence and gender-based violence, particularly during the pandemic. Diving into signs most people don't realize and hidden elements of these situations that we can learn about, she provided all of us with the knowledge that could save a life. Though the pandemic is over, many of the issues discussed in this episode are still relevant, leading it to remain one of the most listened-to shows even in 2024.
Listen now to this interview with Ramya, conducted during Season 6 (then The Woke Desi).
Go to https://betterhelp.com/thatdesispark for 10% off your first month of therapy with
BetterHelp and get matched with a therapist who will listen and help! #sponsored
Follow TDS on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter, and catch up with the hosts, Annika and Asana Voices on IG. Until next time, keep lighting That Desi Spark!
Relive some of the highest-rated, most listened-to episodes of That Desi Spark on The Greatest Hits!
Jasvinder Sanghera came home from school at the age of 14 to find out she was promised to be married. Running away at great personal risk, she was supported by her sister, who herself was married young and died by suicide after suffering from abuse. These experiences led to the founding of Karma Nirvana, an organization in the UK that has helped over 30,000 people, most of whom are of South Asian descent, escape from honor-based violence, forced marriage, and domestic abuse situations.
Listen now to this interview with Jasvinder, conducted during Season 3 (then The Woke Desi).
Go to https://betterhelp.com/thatdesispark for 10% off your first month of therapy with
BetterHelp and get matched with a therapist who will listen and help! #sponsored
Follow TDS on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter, and catch up with the hosts, Annika and Asana Voices on IG. Until next time, keep lighting That Desi Spark!
Relive some of the highest-rated, most listened-to episodes of That Desi Spark on The Greatest Hits!
Brown Girl Therapy, created by Sahaj Kohli, has become synonymous with immigrant mental health. Sahaj offers compassion, understanding, and validation for hundreds of thousands of South Asians on Instagram, through her workshops, conversations, events, and with her new book, "But What Will People Say?" which came out in May of 2024. In fact, the Amazon blurb of her book offered a near-perfect description of her work: "Sahaj offers advice and tools for everything from navigating generational trauma, guilt, and boundaries, to breaking down stigmas around therapy and celebrating cultural duality. Democratizing and decolonizing the way we think about mental health and self-help, Sahaj’s incredible work is nothing short of a revolution."
Listen now to this interview with Sahaj, conducted during Season 4 (then The Woke Desi).
Go to https://betterhelp.com/thatdesispark for 10% off your first month of therapy with
BetterHelp and get matched with a therapist who will listen and help! #sponsored
Follow TDS on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter, and catch up with the hosts, Annika and Asana Voices on IG. Until next time, keep lighting That Desi Spark!
Relive some of the highest-rated, most listened-to episodes of That Desi Spark on The Greatest Hits!
Richa Moorjani has lit up television screens since her attention-grabbing role as Kamala, cousin of Devi, on Netflix' groundbreaking series, Never Have I Ever. Since then, she's gone onto work on Fargo, and is a proud advocate of veganism and humanitarian causes. She remains one of this show's favorite interiews.
Listen now to this interview with Richa Moorjani, conducted during Season 3 (then The Woke Desi).
Go to https://betterhelp.com/thatdesispark for 10% off your first month of therapy with
BetterHelp and get matched with a therapist who will listen and help! #sponsored
Follow TDS on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter, and catch up with the hosts, Annika and Asana Voices on IG. Until next time, keep lighting That Desi Spark!
It's the last episode of That Desi Spark with Nehal as a host - but keep your eyes on TDS as it moves forward with Annika. Big things are coming!
5 years. 8 seasons. 130+ episodes. 140+ guests.
The end of an era. And the beginning of another.
As of January, Nehal will be leaving That Desi Spark to chase her passion of becoming an entertainment-focused content creator, a passion she discovered on TDS.
When we met on a Facebook group, started a podcast, and built a business, lightning struck in a way that changed our lives. We created a lifelong sisterhood, a community that we are so grateful to be a part of, and friendships across the South Asian sphere that we cherish. We never saw it coming. And we can’t thank you enough for supporting us through our life changes - from situationships to babies! - and being a part of the community that we never dreamed would reach these heights.
We hope you’ll continue to support Annika as she takes That Desi Spark forward on her own, and follow Nehal’s journey as doors continue to open for her as a content creator. New episodes and projects drop soon - and until then, keep lighting That Desi Spark.
Follow TDS on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter, and catch up with the hosts, Annika and Nehal, on their personals. Until next time, keep lighting That Desi Spark!
Kanika Chadda Gupta, host of That's Total Mom Sense (a hit podcast with guests like Chelsea Clinton!), joins TDS to talk through the career balance, deciding how to approach parenthood, and all the inspirational stories of incredible mothers across our diaspora and beyond.
You can hear her podcast here, and follow her on Instagram!
Follow TDS on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter, and catch up with the hosts, Annika and Nehal, on their personals. Until next time, keep lighting That Desi Spark!
'Tis the season to give, and American India Foundation's NY-based CEO Nishant Pandey and Chief Development Officer Kalpana Kanthan are with That Desi Spark this week to discuss the outcomes for over 17 million people this non-profit has impacted, the social programs it innovates, women in non-profit leadership, and why we all have a stake in shaping the future of our homelands across South Asia!
Learn more about the American India Foundation's programs, follow them on Instagram, and visit on LinkedIn! Want to donate to the Light a LAMP Campaign? Do it here!
Follow TDS on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter, and catch up with the hosts, Annika and Nehal, on their personals. Until next time, keep lighting That Desi Spark!
The way parents communicate with each other is HUGE in influencing the way we, as immigrants and children of immigrants, engage with our partners. Psychotherapist and founder of Being, Sadaf Siddiqi, joins us for her second episode with TDS to talk about how we can unlearn some of the toxic behaviors and communication techniques we may have grown up with, amplify the healthier ones, and create happier relationships.
Follow TDS on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter, and catch up with the hosts, Annika and Nehal, on their personals. Until next time, keep lighting That Desi Spark!
Saumya Dave, MD, knows what South Asian women are up against - the psychiatrist and novelist is a staunch advocate for mental health, and explores what self-care really means (spoiler: it's MUCH more than than eating a brownie!) for burnout, anxiety, and societal expectations on this must-listen episode of TDS.
This episode is sponsored by Therapy in Colour and Hachette Book Group
Therapy in Colour is a therapy practice that offers Telehealth appointments that blend psychological interventions with cultural understanding. Visit therapyincolour.com today.
The Phoenix King by Aparna Verma is on sale now! An action-packed debut of fire magic and ancient prophecy, in which the fate of a futuristic desert kingdom rests in the hands of a princess desperate for power and an assassin with a dark secret, this novel is a can't-miss!
Follow TDS on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter, and catch up with the hosts, Annika and Nehal, on their personals. Until next time, keep lighting That Desi Spark!
Masculinity and mental health have come under greater scrutiny by the South Asian community in recent years. Clinical Psychology student Paritosh Joshi, a contributor to Brown Girl Magazine, joins TDS to explore how toxic masculinity impacts relationships, upholds patriarchal values, influences mental health, and creates a less inclusive atmosphere for South Asian men to seek mental health resources.
Connect with Paritosh on LinkedIn!
Follow TDS on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter, and catch up with the hosts, Annika and Nehal, on their personals. Until next time, keep lighting that Desi spark!
1 in 5 girls in South Asia will drop out of school after the onset of their period. Period poverty is a global issue with wide-ranging impact. The Desai Foundation's President, Megha Desai, joins TDS to discuss their initiatives to provide access to education, period products, infrastructure, and more - and above all, dignity.
Go to https://betterhelp.com/thatdesispark for 10% off your first month of therapy with
BetterHelp and get matched with a therapist who will listen and help! #sponsored
For the love of colorful skies, tan lines, and South Asian-inspired resort wear, Recover Season is a brand with purpose, employing physically challenged heroes in India to create unique styles. Use the discount code "SUNSET20" to get 20% off your first purchase at recoverseason.com today!
Follow TDS on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter, and catch up with the hosts, Annika and Nehal, on their personals. Until next time, keep lighting that Desi spark!
When journalist Ruchira Gupta traveled across India to find out what was happening to young girls across the country, she stepped into the world of prostitution, sex trafficking, bribes, death threats, and more. Her riveting account of sex trafficking, her founding of Apne Aap - an NGO helping women, girls, and their children in the red light districts of Mumbai, her work with the UN and Hillary Clinton, and above all, hope, are the focus of this episode of TDS.
Tired of swiping left and right on dating apps? Well, imagine if you had a pair of glasses that did all the work for you by showing you every man’s true colors.
Director and Media Critic, Aneesa Khan’s next short film, “Criteria Kya Hai?” is telling this story and she needs your help to celebrate young Pakistani-American women on-screen.
There's one month left in the film’s Kickstarter campaign! Make a donation and be a part of makin
For the love of colorful skies, tan lines, and South Asian-inspired resort wear, Recover Season is a brand with purpose, employing physically challenged heroes in India to create unique styles. Use the discount code "SUNSET20" to get 20% off your first purchase at recoverseason.com today!
Follow TDS on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter, and catch up with the hosts, Annika and Nehal, on their personals. Until next time, keep lighting that Desi spark!
Netflix' Never Have I Ever's central characters, the Vishwakumar family, were trailblazing for South Asians on screen. Star of the series Maitreyi Ramakrishnan joins TDS to discuss her journey on the show, representation as a South Asian, her favorite memories with Devi, and so much more on this engaging episode.
This episode is sponsored by Reti Swimwear, Recover Season, and Therapy in Color.
Reti Swimwear, inspired by the comfort of warm sand, is a desi-inspired swimwear line. Find them on Instagram!
Therapy in Colour is a therapy practice that offers Telehealth appointments that blend psychological interventions with cultural understanding.
Go to https://betterhelp.com/thatdesispark for 10% off your first month of therapy with
BetterHelp and get matched with a therapist who will listen and help! #sponsored
Annika's book, Sugar, Spice, and Can't Play Nice, is available at all bookstores including Barnes and Noble, Bookshop, and Amazon!
Follow TDS on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter, and catch up with the hosts, Annika and Nehal, on their personals. Until next time, keep lighting that Desi spark!
Sameera Qureshi, MS OTR, joins TDS to discuss her career with sexual health and Islam - what to do when values and lifestyles clash, issues around not exploring sexuality, how she's educated people about sex, and finding peace with sexual health.
Follow TDS on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter, and catch up with the hosts, Annika and Nehal, on their personals. Until next time, keep lighting that Desi spark!
Actress from movies like ABCD, bestselling author of "Always Anjali," and "Bravo Anjali," and outspoken activist about all politics but especially those around children, multi-hyphenate Sheetal Sheth joins TDS to discuss anti-AAPI narratives, why book bans are a problem, and how diverse literature changes lives.
Annika's book, Sugar, Spice, and Can't Play Nice, is available at all bookstores including Barnes and Noble, Bookshop, and Amazon!
Go to https://betterhelp.com/thatdesispark for 10% off your first month of therapy with
BetterHelp and get matched with a therapist who will listen and help! #sponsored
Follow TDS on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter, and catch up with the hosts, Annika and Nehal, on their personals. Until next time, keep lighting that Desi spark!
Clinical Neuropsychology PHD resident Nawal Mustafa joins TDS to chat through how to recognize emotional triggers and manage emotions to strengthen relationships around you and increase your emotional intelligence.
Follow TDS on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter, and catch up with the hosts, Annika and Nehal, on their personals. Until next time, keep lighting that Desi spark!
What does representation on television and streaming REALLY mean? VP of Global Communications at Nielsen, Patricia Ratulangi, and CEO and Founder of Marginal Mediaworks, Sanjay Sharma, join TDS to discuss statistics found on Nielsen's recent study of television around women and AAPI representation, whether there's been progress made, how and why AAPI players may be overlooked, and so much more.
Follow TDS on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter, and catch up with the hosts, Annika and Nehal, on their personals. Until next time, keep lighting that Desi spark!
Psychotherapist Sadaf Siddiqi (@your.being) joins TDS to discuss inner child healing, parental boundaries, learning to set limits, attachments, and why South Asian children of immigrants may feel difficulty in speaking up for themselves.
Follow TDS on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter, and catch up with the hosts, Annika and Nehal, on their personals. Until next time, keep lighting that Desi spark!
From working with Fall Out Boy and being nominated for a Grammy to 2023's Coachella, Raja Kumari talks to That Desi Spark about her album, The Bridge, how she broke into music, her classical Indian dance background, remaining true, and so much more.
Annika's book, Sugar, Spice, and Can't Play Nice, is available at all bookstores including Barnes and Noble, Bookshop, and Amazon!
Go to https://betterhelp.com/thatdesispark for 10% off your first month of therapy with
BetterHelp and get matched with a therapist who will listen and help! #sponsored
Follow TDS on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter, and catch up with the hosts, Annika and Nehal, on their personals. Until next time, keep lighting that Desi spark!
Seema Hari joins TDS to discuss how colorism and caste are deeply intertwined and how colorism in the South Asian diaspora (and the globe) is a much bigger intersectional issue than we realize.
You can follow Seema, her activism, and her writings on Instagram.
Go to https://betterhelp.com/thatdesispark for 10% off your first month of therapy with
BetterHelp and get matched with a therapist who will listen and help! #sponsored
Follow TDS on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter, and catch up with the hosts, Annika and Nehal, on their personals. Until next time, keep lighting that Desi spark!
Influencer, writer, and comedian Jyoti Chand joins TDS to discuss motherhood in the spotlight, what she'd do differently from her own parents, what she loves about South Asian families, and more on this episode of That Desi Spark.
Simran Jeet Singh's bestselling book, "The Light We Give: How Sikh Wisdom Can Transform Your Life," is a testament to why he was named one of Time Magazine's "sixteen people fighting for a more equal America" and is the Executive Director of the Aspen Institute’s Program on Religion & Society. His compassion, pride in his faith, storytelling, and above all, his lessons in leadership and love, are a must-listen on this episode of That Desi Spark.
You can follow him on Instagram. And follow That Desi Spark on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter.
South Asian communities have a longstanding habit of celebrating boys' births, assigning responsibilities to people because of gender, and creating roles and expectations that can result in mental health struggles later in life. Dr. Shanta Kanokollu joins TDS to discuss the impact of gender socialization, how it presents itself in the ways people cope, how to undo some of the damage, and what we, collectively, need to work on.
You can follow That Desi Spark on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter, and follow Dr. Kanukollu on Instagram.
It's a Valentine's Day special with actress, content creator, and powerful woman Joty Kay, who began her career on Vine before moving to multiple other mediums. Tune in for a conversation around relationship red flags, green flags, Kegels, sex, hookups, and so much more!
When religion and sex come together, particularly in South Asian communities, guilt, shame, patriarchy, and talks of honor and cleanliness aren't far behind. Dr. Sarika Persaud, a PsyD who specializes in issues of sexuality, Tantra, and Vedanta joins TDS to break down those misconceptions, have a meaningful conversation on how the two can coexist, define the tantric practice, and give listeners some food for thought.
Follow Sarika on Instagram at @doctor.samosa and follow TDS at @thatdesispark on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter!
1 in 5 South Asian women experience PCOS, a reproductive disorder of the ovaries that can cause a number of symptoms - so many, that diagnosis can often be challenging or confused with other comorbid diseases. South Asian women also see a higher incidence of PCOS than other ethnicities. Anita Mirchandani, MS, RD, and CDN, joins TDS on the Season 8 premiere to discuss a healthy diet as part of PCOS management, how weight is not a metric to determine health, and swaps to make with South Asian foods to increase nutritional value without losing the cultural attachment to them.
Home for the holidays and in need of boundaries with family? TDS has got you covered, alongside Divya Robin, LMHC (@mindmatterswithdiv) who specializes in mental health with South Asian populations and offers an episode full of tips on how to decide if a boundary is right for you, how you should speak up, when you should draw a line, and tips to make it easier because we all know the guilt is real.
Ranika is a product manager in tech and got her eggs frozen earlier this year at the age of 30. Conversations around fertility are still stigmatized in the South Asian community and Ranika navigated this short but intense process on her own. Now she is passionate about sharing her journey, normalizing the conversation, and encouraging women to take control of their future and speaks to TDS about the process, the physical effects, factors that influenced her decision and so much more!
The ENTIRE South Asian reality television-watching world has opinions on Cutie-gate, the wild conclusion to Love is Blind Season 3 on Netflix! TDS speaks with Zanab Jaffrey, one of the stars of the show, about her experience, mental health, competition amongst South Asians on all the things, what the show didn't include, and so much more.
Speaking up for survivors of gender-based violence is more than providing logistical support as they leave harmful situations: it also involves mental health counseling for families, behavioral therapies, access to resources and more. The Bhatia Foundation (led by Anita Bhatia) and Sakhi (led by Kavita Mehra) have partnered to create programs and share their insights on domestic violence within the South Asian community.
Clinical psychologist Dr. Anjali Ferguson, an expert in racial equity, cultural competence, and trauma - particularly with children - joins TDS to discuss a wide range of subjects: from parenting and advocating for children of color, to trauma-informed therapy, to what cultural competence should look like across settings.
It's back to the core TDS hosts this week as Annika and Nehal explore adult friendships, how breakups of friends can be even more devastating than amorous relationships, how to cope, and how to end a friendship gently.
It's back to the core TDS hosts this week as Annika and Nehal explore adult friendships, how breakups of friends can be even more devastating than amorous relationships, how to cope, and how to end a friendship gently.
Burhan, a Pakistani non-binary activist, speaks up about the transphobia across the South Asian diaspora, their experiences in both continents, and how we can change the way we speak, act, and think about what transphobia looks like.
Burhan, a Pakistani non-binary activist, speaks up about the transphobia across the South Asian diaspora, their experiences in both continents, and how we can change the way we speak, act, and think about what transphobia looks like.
Dr. Natasha Sriraman (@natasha.mom.md) is a pediatrician, postpartum advocate, and author of "Back to You," a book for moms, support systems, and how to make sure moms are taken care during their most vulnerable time.
Attachment styles influence every one of our relationships, from family to platonic to romantic - Israa Nasir of Well Guide joins TDS to discuss how these influence our connections, how they can change, and yes, the desi mama's boy stereotype.
Nehal took LA and had the chance to interview Love is Blind: After the Altar stars Deepti Vempati and Natalie Lee about their stories after the show wrapped, Kyle and Deepti's friendship-to-love story, her upcoming book, and so much more!
South Asians make up 25% of the world's population and 50% of the world's cardiac health burden. That statistic alone is staggering, and on this week's episode, we explore initiatives aimed at including more South Asians in healthcare research, the help of Medicare in reaching our parents' generation, cardiac health risk, and more, alongside Dr. Meena Seshamani (Director of the Center for Medicare) and Prince Bhojwani (CEO and Co-Founder of ASANA Voices).
Aparna Shewakramani turned heads and raised questions in her 2 seasons of starring on Netflix' Indian Matchmaking. She has served as a rallying point for conversations about double standards, women and their villainous portrayal on television for being independent, feminism, the actual realities of reality television, and so much more. An author, a matchmaker herself, a screenwriter, a future producer, a lawyer, a future TED talker...she gets real with TDS this week about who she is. And trust us. She's loveable.
Aparna Shewakramani turned heads and raised questions in her 2 seasons of starring on Netflix' Indian Matchmaking. She has served as a rallying point for conversations about double standards, women and their villainous portrayal on television for being independent, feminism, the actual realities of reality television, and so much more. An author, a matchmaker herself, a screenwriter, a future producer, a lawyer, a future TED talker...she gets real with TDS this week about who she is. And trust us. She's loveable.
When Avani Modi's brother reached out to her about creating plush toys based on Hindu dieties, she thought, "Are you crazy?" Four years later, she leads Modi Toys, a successful, homegrown venture that provides mantra-singing plush toys. She shares her journey, her vulnerabilities, and her goals with That Desi Spark on this week's episode.
It's WEDDING SEASON! No, not just the time of year full of South Asian weddings but the Netflix hit romcom - screenwriter Shiwani Srivastava and producer Swati Shetty join TDS to talk creative journeys, how the movie went from script to screen, what kinds of stories are being told, and what's coming next!
The internet broke for Diwali 2021 when all the celebs from Chrissy Teigen to Mindy Kaling wore a label that Annika and Nehal have loved for YEARS: Papa Don't Preach by Shubhika Sharma - and she joins TDS this week to talk empowerment in fashion, the issue of copying and how it impacts creatives, her reading list, her next big reveal, and more.
When Dr. Mrinalini Garv realized her career path wasn't full of passion or purpose, she quit - and now she coaches South Asian women to help female executives and professionals bust through their income ceiling, get valued as a leader, and create the fulfilling career they have always wanted.
Miscarriage occurs in 25% of pregnancies - it's an everyday tragedy. On this candid, vulnerable, and raw episode of TDS, Annika shared her recent loss with Nehal and the isolation, the weird and unique stages of grief, the missing-someone-you-never-met, the way partners handle it differently, the stats, some of the feelings that might help you support someone, the reproductive rights element, and the healing…all with a little humor, compassion, and hope.
Author, pharma CEO, investor, and woman of influence Hitha Palepu joins TDS to discuss multi-hyphenate identity, learning from history, owning your multitudes, and (of course) romance book recommendations.
You can find Hitha's book, "We're Speaking: The Life Lessons of Kamala Harris: How to Use Your Voice, Be Assertive, and Own Your Story," on Amazon.
Find Hitha on Instagram.
And follow That Desi Spark on Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter!
Founder of ShethePeople.TV, feminist, and gamechanger Shaili Chopra joins TDS to talk about women's rights, women's health in India, and She The People, India’s first women-only platform focused on content, community, and skill development.
Director, producer, writer, actress, and all-around phenom Sujata Day joins TDS to discuss acting, representation, her journey to writing, directing, and producing "Definition, Please," for Netflix, and more. Follow Sujata on IG and follow That Desi Spark (and Annika and Nehal!) on IG, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Facebook.
Relationships researcher and professor Aditi Paul and artist Kahani join TDS to discuss data-backed insights into Gen Z's hookups, dating, and sexual behaviors.
This episode is sponsored by Desi Crime
The visa backlog in the United States is threatening the futures of over 200,000 South Asians who may be deported once they age out of the process. The Hidden Dream and Improve the Dream join TDS to discuss the issue, resources, and how to help.
Sooraj Saxena, TikTok phenom, Shvkti founder, and all-around inspirational human, joins TDS for his first podcast appearance ever to discuss self-love, dating yourself, and finding joy. This episode is sponsored by DilMil.
Follow Sooraj on IG and TikTok!
And follow That Desi Spark, Annika, and Nehal on IG, Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn!
Child marriage is a topic within the same big conversation of honor-based violence, abuse, gender-based violence, forced marriage, and rights of women and children. At the age of 15, Sasha Taylor came home to find herself in the middle of a wedding conversation to a man much older - South Asian countries have the highest incidences of child marriage, even in the West. Would you believe the US only has protections in 6 states against marrying off children? TDS speaks to Sasha about these protections and how we all need to do more.
Follow Sasha on Instagram!
And follow That Desi Spark on IG, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Facebook - and follow Annika and Nehal on theirs as well!
It's fitting that for Women's History Month, TDS spoke to Deepa Purushotaman, one of the youngest and first South Asian partner at Deloitte and author of "The First, The Few, The Only: How WOC Can Redefine Power in Corporate America."
Deepa's TED Talk and newly released book explore topics of trauma in the workplace, how "leaning in" isn't designed for women of color, how power dynamics look very different for WOC, and so much more.
Follow That Desi Spark on Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Facebook! And follow Annika and Nehal on their socials as well.
People falling in love sight unseen? Nope, not just our aunties, uncles, and parents, but the cast of Netflix' latest hit reality show, Love is Blind! Singer and host of the show, Nick Lachey, and cast member Deepti Vempati join That Desi Spark to talk about diversity in casting for Season 2, Deepti's experience in owning reality TV as her way to find love, her self-discovery, and more.
Follow Deepti on Instagram and follow Annika, Nehal, and That Desi Spark on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn!
It started off with two college kids in love...and led to TikTok fame! Social media stars Puja and Reza Khan went viral with their wedding video, leading to thousands of followers, and unexpected opportunities. They talked to That Desi Spark about their relationship, social media, living with Reza's parents, their future plans, and so much more. Follow Puja and Reza on TikTok and YouTube!
And follow Annika, Nehal, and That Desi Spark on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn!
Well, well, it's a new episode to kick off a reinvention of The Woke Desi to THAT DESI SPARK. It's been a transformative year for so many of us between the state of the world, job transitions, life events, and more...and we were no different. Annika and Nehal discuss what led to the change and what to expect on this podcast in this mini-episode.
Keep sparking conversation and igniting the world.
In South Asian cultures, there is inherent pressure for women, in particular, to bond two families. This can result in stress, a lack of boundaries, and difficult relationships...but it doesn't have to be that way! Israa Nasir, therapist and founder of Well.Guide joins TWD to discuss in-law relationships and successful communication, fulfilling bonds, respect, and boundary-setting to achieve harmony and break the stereotype of saas-bahu tension.
Ramya Chunduri joins this episode of TWD to explain how domestic violence, an issue an underreported 2 in 5 South Asian women face, has transformed through the pandemic. The UN called it a "shadow pandemic," as rates of DV increased, social media became both a place of information and of danger, and abuse transformed with the use of the internet. Recognizing DV has never been so important - if you or anyone you know is experiencing abuse, please Google your state's local South Asian abuse resources, as they will have information catered to South Asian demographics, religions, and communities.
At the beginning of the last year and a half, a viral tweet went around about how if you hadn't learned a new language or skill during your time at home, you didn't lack time but discipline. In so many of us, toxic productivity became the norm...a glamorization of working as hard as you can and then hustling even harder.
It has to stop.
On this episode, TWD discusses toxic productivity, tips to overcome it, the stress of producing at all times, and how 2020 and 2021 have only made it worse.
Surrogacy in South Asia CAN be positive - however there is a nefarious underbelly to the entire industry--yes, you heard right, industry of baby-making. On Part 2 of Surrogacy, TWD explores a few different laws, issues, and ethics to consider when exploring surrogacy in South Asia (India, in particular).
This week's episode of TWD is a little different than usual - Nehal Mehra (@_nehalmehra on IG), a guest from Season 1, confidence coach, friend, makeup artist, and content creator joined the conversation to weigh in on dating in your thirties, confidence, setting standards, not fearing loneliness, and so much more.
Surrogacy is an avenue for parenthood that is often shrouded in mystery. From choosing a gestational carrier to terminology to questions to ask, this episode was enlightening and thought-provoking. In fact, it fostered a part two conversation surrounding surrogacy in South Asia as an upcoming episode! But for now, part one about surrogacy as an option for parenthood is out now on all major podcasting platforms.
Bravo TV's reality show, Family Karma, has taken the US by storm! Star Monica Vaswani chats with TWD about dating, self-love, confidence, setting standards, life on television, how dating has changed, and her own anecdotes about owning her story.
Follow Monica at @monica_vaswani on IG.
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TWD is in conversation with Sukhjeen Kaur this week - the founder of Chronically Brown, an organization aimed at decreasing the stigmas surrounding disabilities within the South Asian communities. The conversation is a drop in the ocean: there's so much to learn! But invisible versus visible disabilities, accessibility across websites and social media, stigmatization, shifts in views of disabilities, and more, are the beginning of an important discussion around how we can make positive change.
Welcome back to Season 6 of The Woke Desi! It's been a long hiatus of nearly 5 months but Annika and Nehal are back and they're interviewing...each other?! Tune in for chatter about pandemic learnings, podcast happenings, rebrands, travel plans, book releases and more on the soft launch of Season 6!
It's been a great Season 5 and TWD is closing it out with the ladies of Loudmouth Ladkis, a podcast that feels like a little sister show, and Anu Manner of Masala My Life, a store that brings together East and West. With five people on this show spanning from Gen X, millennials, and Gen Z, first-generation stories and experiences are shared, from immigration stories, experiences in rural areas versus cities, high schools, and toys that have transcended time. Listen now!
On this week's episode, the role of long hair in South Asian beauty standards is discussed with representation advocate and alopecia goddess Neehar Sachdeva, who began her journey of empowerment, owning her story, and reclaiming her beauty a few years ago and hasn't looked back. From ingrained value in long hair, to the aunties and uncles fearing the audacity of women who embrace the way they look, to misconceptions about alopecia, Neehar powerfully shares insights that will stick with listeners on this episode of TWD.
Get ready for a playful, chatty, and sexy episode of TWD. Guest Mira Patel, a digital creator, influencer, model, and makeup artist, joins the show to talk about self-love, sexy time, confidence, and shattering stereotypes.
TWD is joined by Dr. Pinkey Patel, a PharmD, fitness instructor, mama of 2, and startup founder of The Snapback, an app designed to aid womxn from prepregnancy to postpartum, and from mental to physical health. Postpartum depression, in particular, is an underreported, underdiagnosed, and unfortunately accepted part of motherhood in South Asian communities. During the most momentous transformation in a person's life, healthcare systems need to be designed to support mothers fully and, hopefully, the conversation on this week's episode will help in the process of opening up and normalizing seeking help through new motherhood.
Wellness coach and advocate for empowerment, Punita Mangat (@Thrivehigherdaily) joins TWD this week to discuss sexual empowerment, thriving after divorce, South Asian expectations of divorcees (and how they should go in the trash), and so much more.
Relationships between South Asian nations, particularly over religious differences, are unstable at best - and relationships between Hindus and Muslims are filled with history between conquering nations, colonialism, partition, conflicts over land, the use of armed forces on each other. This brings us to this week's topic of Islamophobia and how we need to dismantle some of the biases that our families have passed on through their own trauma. That's why we got a second to chat with Aysha Qamar, a writer, poet, and advocate based in the tri-state area. She has extensive experience working with state officials and grassroots organizations on addressing issues of violence against women, language access, and Islamophobia. Aysha’s work in state language access has allowed her to pilot and implement programs dedicated to South Asian cultural competency within the judiciary system nationwide.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Immigrant women are often at a loss about their finances due to dependence, culture, abuse, and social structure. TWD talks with financial coach Parween Mander (IG: @parween.mander) about what empowering women financially looks like and what steps people can take to ensure better money choices.
TWD interviews fashion designer Mani Jassal, a creative and powerhouse woman who has dressed names like Ashanti, Diipa Khosla, and Zendaya. From her roots designing prom dresses as she put herself through school, to adjusting business models during COVID-19, this interview is a must-listen for all creatives who need a dose of determined inspiration.
Of the world's 30 million slaves, 50% are in India. The societal, political, and industrial relationships between South Asian countries are ripe for trafficking survivors across borders, particularly once power dynamics come into play. TWD speaks to documentarians Arpita De and Pallavi Pundir of Vice World News about sex trafficking and their documentary, "The Forgotten Ones: Human Trafficking in Nepal," which features survivors who have brought their voices out to speak against this atrocity.
TW: Suicide, loss
Guest Pooja Mehta (yup, the same from Season 3!) comes back to chat about grief, loss, and the process of moving forward when someone in your life has passed from suicide. This is also a relevant and timely episode for those who have faced losses from COVID-19 - grief doesn't discriminate. Let's work together to empathize, be kind, and support others in our community in knowledgeable and conducive ways.
Author Tanuja Desai Hidier, the critically acclaimed author of the first young adult novel with a South Asian-American protagonist, Born Confused (and its sequel Bombay Blues), speaks with the ladies of TWD about South Asian identity, her groundbreaking work, reader responses across the globe as their lives were changed by seeing themselves in writing, her writing process, and New York-London-Paris love.
Music credits for this episode: BORN TWO [the Born Confused theme] from WHEN WE WERE TWINS (songs based on the novel Born Confused) written/performed by Tanuja, Jeff Cohen, & Mike Shimshack [aka Unsuitable Girl].
DEEP BLUE SHE from BOMBAY SPLEEN (songs based on the sequel, Bombay Blues) written/performed by by Tanuja & Marie Tueje.
COVID-19 and quarantine has led to many young people moving in with family, fast tracking relationships into the move-in stage, or finding themselves with friends who live in close proximity. Boundaries can be hard to come by. TWD chatted with Anjali Chakra about boundary-setting, relationship hacks during this stressful time, love languages, and small ways to let close spaces create individual growth.
Theater. Film. Television. Aasif Mandvi, the groundbreaking South Asian actor, does it all. From SNL to CBS' Evil, he dives into his acting career and recounts his stories of answering services while auditioning, his baby's giggle, brown representation, and so much more, on this episode of The Woke Desi.
Makeup guru. Youtube superstar. Total sweetheart. Kaushal joins the ladies of TWD to chat about makeup, her career, how she got started, her marriage to Vex King, her low points, family, and more.
Makeup guru. Youtube superstar. Total sweetheart. Kaushal joins the ladies of TWD to chat about makeup, her career, how she got started, her marriage to Vex King, her low points, family, and more.
It's been a long two months, friends, but the ladies of The Woke Desi are back with Season 5. In this insights episode, Annika and Nehal talk about their lives in the last six months and how COVID-19, personal challenges and growth, the election, mental health, racial tensions and more have come together.
It's the TWD Season 5 finale...with Sahaj Kohli, the remarkable and insightful presence behind Brown Girl Therapy, the largest community for children of immigrants and their mental health. Sahaj talks to the ladies of TWD about parental expectations, setting boundaries, how therapy should be encouraged for everyone, and how support and connection are powerful unifiers.
From unmarried womxn terrified of the stigmas attached to being an unwed mother and premarital sex, to married womxn who don't feel stable enough in their lives to bring children into their current situation, to trans men who became pregnant because of healthcare inadequacies, TWD is talking to Dr. Meera Shah (@mjshah8), author of the INCREDIBLE book, "You're the Only One I've Told," about abortion, barriers to access and how abortion can impact all kinds of policy from family law, to LGBTQ rights, to healthcare.
To quote guest Ryan Budhu: "Systemic inequity impacts
distinct parts of our community differently, and [Ryan's brother who died in police custody] Ravi’s story is just one facet of a larger narrative. To understand this larger story, South Asians should strive to understand this nation’s history and how our current legal system can perpetuate inequality. In doing so, there will be a greater recognition that the road to equal treatment for all, particularly for communities of color and those suffering in poverty, is intertwined with justice for Black lives." Listen to this episode for Ryan's eloquent discussion on systemic racism and why it should matter to South Asians.
Sonalee Rashatwar - also known as The Fat Sex Therapist - speaks with TWD about fatphobia, sexual pleasure and how it does not need to be penetrative to be intimate, and Health At Every Size. Full of controversial opinions and urging listeners to examine science closely, Sonalee has insights worth listening to about diet culture, South Asians, children's consent before dieting, and shame.
Closing out the second half of this two-part series is Nadia Jagessar, the breakout star and lovable heroine of her own love story on Netflix' Indian Matchmaking. Did she have some realities strike after filming? How did she adjust to her heartbreaks being played out on screen? What were her stories? Find out now on this episode of TWD!
Indian Matchmaking, the #1 show on Netflix in recent weeks, has taken the world by storm. From problematic themes regarding colorism, casteism, sexism, to being the train wreck you can't turn away from, one cast member has become a person people love to hate. Vinay Chadha, the man who stood up fan favorite Nadia, speaks to TWD about his story in part one of two surrounding the show in this double-feature week.
Brown Girl Magazine CEO Trisha Sakhuja-Walia joins TWD to discuss her journey as an entrepreneur, buying out her partners, how there is space for all South Asians on the world stage, the identity of BGM and her plans to expand. This episode is a must listen-to for emerging entrepreneurs and those who aspire to think outside the box.
Two of the four founders of the South Asian Sexual and Mental Health Alliance join TWD to discuss colonized health, minority stress theory, stigmatization and expectations around sexuality, and how full body health has to include both mental health and sexual health in the conversation.
This episode is sponsored by Soma Ayurvedic
Pink Ladoo Project's Raj Khaira joins the ladies of TWD to explore gender inequality in South Asian communities. From women propagating sexism, to how on earth we expect women to stand up for themselves after a lifetime of inferiority, to how feminism needs to be intersectional, this conversation is a must-listen when it comes to dismantling thousands of years of toxic behavior toward women in the South Asian community.
The rate of chronic pelvic pain across the world varies from 14-32%. This stat is likely underreported because women, particularly those in South Asian cultures, assume pain is normal--and it isn't! Dr. Tayyaba Ahmed joins TWD to go over sociocultural factors, endometriosis, pain during sex, why South Asian women's sexual activity is associated with pain, and the differences between Europe and the US when it comes to pelvic floor health.
Diipa Khosla--one of the world's biggest influencers. Entrepreneur. Creator of social change. On one of the biggest episodes of TWD, Diipa joins the ladies to discuss her rise to Insta-fame, her lessons as an entrepreneur, her journey with mental health, representation as a South Asian and how beauty standards need to change.
Recent events like the death of George Floyd have prompted society to take a good, hard look at the nature of allyship and where we've fallen short. But looking forward from social media activism and marches...what's next? Liya Thachil, a community organizer on Long Island, discusses civic engagement, 2020's election cycle, actionable steps we can take to change legislation as South Asians, and making the BLM movement an intentional movement toward policy change.
Welcome to the Season 4 opener of The Woke Desi! In light of recent events, conversations in the South Asian community have mirrored those being held across the world with regard to racism and race relations. But one aspect of the conversation amongst South Asians needs to be brought forward prior to the discussion on racism, and that is colorism. Former Miss America 2014, Nina Davuluri, chimes in on the mic in this episode about her docu-series, COMPLEXion, which follows the issue of colorism around the world.
On the Season 3 Finale of TWD, Richa Moorjani joins the ladies to talk about Netflix #1 show, developed by Mindy Kaling, "Never Have I Ever." Richa has an open, honest and refreshing conversation with Nehal and Annika surrounding her trajectory in acting, the groundbreaking series, criticisms of the show, working toward dreams, and more.
Bisexual genderqueer West Indian, Indo-Caribbean writer, spiritual channel and experimental art film creatrix, Nandani Bharrat, and life coach, TEDx speaker and reiki master, Shanita Liu, join TWD to discuss the violent migration of Indian citizens to the Caribbean after the abolition of slavery (by law and not by practice), their own identities as Guyanese-American, and how this forgotten segment of the diaspora needs support to confront generations of trauma by colonization.
Representation has always mattered. And it counts more than ever. The founders of CTZN Cosmetics, Pakistani sisters Aleena, Aleezeh, and Naseeha Khan, created CTZN so that every person regardless of gender could find their true match and feel seen. The ladies of TWD speak with them about their experience as a global brand and the importance of being valued and recognized as a citizen of the world.
With Earth Day upon us, and the environmental ramifications from humans being seen more than ever as they stay inside, TWD explores the sustainability and decolonization of fashion. Blogger/activist Aditi Mayer and Lukh Studio's Karen Desai join the ladies of TWD to discuss how fast fashion--a disposable, low quality, high output industy-- holds power in multiple areas like economies, to human rights, to upholding values of colonialism.
Breast cancer can be genetic--but as Dr. Anjali Malik tells TWD listeners, most are actually mutations that patients never see coming. Such was the case with Roshni Kamta, a 23-year old survivor of breast cancer, who also shares her story. Many misconceptions exist around breast cancer and South Asians, and the conversation needs to be had to correct them.
The Kama Sutra has been hailed as a book of freaks in Western culture...but is it really? A listener-requested topic, the Kama Sutra is dissected by the ladies as a spiritual and meaningful guide to sex, intimacy and meaningful interactions with partners.
Jasvinder Sanghera, CBE, a worldwide expert on honor-based violence, recognized by Prince Charles and David Cameron, and founder of the organization Karma Nirvana, joins the hosts of TWD to talk about the legal, social, psychological and cultural issues surrounding honor-based violence. This worldwide issue ranges from FGM to forced marriage to murder, and due to severe underreporting, the numbers hover around 5,000 killings in the world each year.
Guest Pooja Mehta, a mental health advocate, shares her story of facing a schizoaffective disorder where she hears voices during moments of anxiety. Unlike depression and anxiety, the more commonly-supported (but still not fully accepted) mental health disorders, schizoaffective disorders are still known as "crazy" diseases, a stigma that needs to stop.
TWD interviews Melanie Chandra, actress and advocate for South Asian representation. Melanie has acted in CBS Code Black, acted and produced Surina and Mel, and more, and has created spaces in entertainment by recognizing the void of South Asians and filling it in with projects she has helped conceptualize.
Hindu-Muslim relationships have ebbed and flowed since British colonialism ended in 1947...but relationships, love, and marriage have recently become more common--and no less accepted between the two populations. TWD discusses love between two religions with couple Neehar and Nadia Swali and engaged Farzeen Syed on this must-listen episode.
Burnout is real. In today's world, it's impossible not to feel like we have to be the perfect employees, side hustlers, passion-chasers, daughters, sons, partners, parents, and more...and that effort can be exhausting, creating a drain on the mind, body and soul. Coach Shanita Liu, an Indo-Caribbean life coach, joins TWD to discuss burnout and how we, as South Asians, can prevent it.
Full list of resources can be found on the TWD website.
This episode is sponsored by Masala My Life
It's a crossover episode between the hosts of Yoga is Dead Podcast (Tejal and Jesal) and The Woke Desi! Talking about cultural appropriation, truly listening to diverse voices, and making yoga a more equal, representative and authentic practice, this episode is one that'll stretch your limits and make you think.
*A full list of resources can be found on the TWD website.
It's a Nehal passion topic this week! Plastic surgery has been a rising trend amongst South Asians in the last decade. India is the #4 hotspot in the world for procedures (TOI). Pakistani-Brits have been flooding the major cities for medical tourism trips to have work done. The ladies of TWD speak with Dr. Usha Rajagopal, host of her own podcast (The Beauty Balance), and board certified plastic surgeon.
Not sure if you want to be a mom? Waiting on a partner? Holding off because your career is priority? Egg freezing has become an option for increasing numbers of South Asian women. A proponent of egg freezing who has shared her story in the New York Post, Dr. Saya Nagori is a passionate advocate for women's health and discusses the process of egg freezing on this episode of TWD. She started FemHealth and SimpleHealth, two ventures to aid patients in being able to access the healthcare they need. An insightful and must-listen to episode!
References and resources can be found on the TWD website.
This episode is sponsored by Masala My Life.
From healthcare consultant to MasterChef, Hetal Vasavada has carved out a career for herself in all things baking and cooking. With a fusion of Indian and American cuisine, and a cookbook titled after her brand, Milk and Cardamom, Hetal is on the rise in the food industry and the ladies of TWD talk to her about competition amongst South Asians, hate, Instagramming, and yes...whether Gordon Ramsay is a nice guy or not.
All resources, references and links are available on the TWD website.
On the premiere of Season 3 , the ladies of TWD sit down with KJ Dhaliwal, the CEO & Founder of Dil Mil, to discuss all things dating. Starting with KJ's journey on how this all began to getting into the best and worst dating stories to then diving into what's next with Dil Mil and how the dating scene has changed as a whole in the digital era...this season is off with a bang.
The holidays don't just encompass Christmas and New Year...there are hundreds of holidays across the world that immigrants celebrate throughout the year. From Eid to Diwali to Rakshabandan, the ladies of TWD talk about the takes on South Asian holidays and how we've all learned to make cross-cultural, cross-religious and beautiful celebrations our own.
Growing up, so many South Asians couldn't find their shades when shopping for makeup--a seemingly small issue but an indicator of a much larger problem. There was no representation. Slowly but surely, however, this is changing with brands like Fenty Beauty, Huda Beauty, Live Tinted and more coming to the forefront of the industry. On this special bonus episode of TWD, the ladies discuss some of the best products out there, beauty tricks and brands that are making a difference.
South Asian authors have made an incredible impact on literature--from Salman Rushdie to Arundhati Roy, to TWD's lifechanger--Tanuja Desai Hidier. Now, a new wave of South Asian authors are rising the ranks in literature with their "own voices" writing. TWD talks about new South Asians authors who are making their mark with new stories about feminism, racism, and the way the world really looks.
Chrissy Teigen was once lambasted for feeding her child formula. Alyssa Milano argued with Wendy Williams about breastfeeding not being sexual but a necessity. Mom-shaming has been a real issue in all cultures--from decisions on breastfeeding to cosleeping, from vaccines to potty training. The ladies of TWD are here to discuss it and how South Asians often hear the same shame from their own families.
Who doesn't remember Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge's iconic scene of Raj reaching for Simran's hand on the train? Or Kajol's makeover of the century in Kuch Kuch Hota Hai? The movies South Asians have watched have set the bar high in some ways, and...not so high, in others. In this 12 Days of TWD special, the ladies dissect Bollywood movies and how they are loved for the romance and fun, and hated for the messaging.
We asked and you answered! One of the most hotly requested topics was to do one on careers. The ladies of TWD did a Q&A regarding questions received about careers, balance, and the ideas of women having it all...with more episodes with experts to come in the New Year!
From being a global icon to being a controversial and questionable role model, Priyanka Chopra certainly riles up the public. As the first South Asian to successfully break into the mainstream Hollywood market, she has opened doors for South Asians across the world and made a name for herself...but what about her less popular decisions? She married Nick Jonas to the squeals of millions--but was the wedding monetized too much? She presents feminism and strength--but is her brand of feminism empty? There are so many facets to this incredible, fascinating, beautiful, frustrating, and challenging woman...and the ladies of TWD explore their opinions on this special episode of TWD.
From abusive messages online to the concept of boys not expressing emotions in South Asian cultures, toxic masculinity is a common problem with a solution that we need to find. On this bonus episode of TWD, Annika and Nehal dissect toxic masculinity and how manhood is defined in ways that can be detrimental to forward movement.
When TWD asked its Instagram followers what casual sex meant, the answer was nearly unanimous: sex without strings attached. But what does that mean? And in South Asian culture, casual sex comes with more questions about virginity, morality, and more...on this episode, the ladies of TWD dissect some of the information they've uncovered regarding casual sex and argue about whether it's such a good idea after all.
Did you hear a crow on your roof today? Guests must be on their way! On this bonus episode of TWD, as part of the 12 Days of TWD special series, Annika and Nehal chat about all things superstitions...where they came from, and why we follow them. Enjoy, and follow us @thewokedesi on Instagram.
Sabyasachi. Anita Dongre. Falguni Shane Peacock. In South Asia and bridalwear, these names are as legendary as the outfits they design. But what about the fashion scandals? In this bonus episode of 12 Days of TWD, Annika and Nehal talk about fashion scandals and why they're relevant to the broader community.
Like the ladies covered in Episode 1 of TWD six months ago, from the "What are we?" question to getting over a heartbreak, dating encompasses so many questions and such a small number of answers. On this special episode of 12 days of TWD, Annika and Nehal answer questions sent in by listeners about all things dating.
Pelvic pain--a whopping 40% of women suffer it during sex. Whether it's from initial penetration or deep penetration, sex should not be painful. TWD speaks with Dr. Sonia Bahlani, a pelvic pain specialist based out of NYC, about pelvic pain and how it's a much more widely suffered issue than most people realize. South Asian women in particular often suffer longer than many because of the quiet culture associated with sex...and it's time to change the conversation!
Adoption--the rare times it's mentioned in South Asian communities, the act occurs within families. Boys are often given to a relative who has no one to take on their name...but millions of South Asian children also need homes, and for whatever reason, society is averse to taking someone else's child into our homes. On this thought-provoking, profound, and uplifting episode, guests Sarah Corley and Malea Hetrick talk about their respective adoption cases. Sarah was adopted from India into a Caucasian mother's home. Malea is a Caucasian mother who adopted an Indian girl...and both are aware of exactly how challenging adoption can be within South Asian culture.
On previous episodes, TWD discussed colorism and appropriation. Now, taking it one step further, the topic of conversation surrounds anti-blackness in South Asian communities. From slavery in South Asia to casteism to fairness campaigns, enough is enough with the narrative that states black equals less. Tune into today's episode as we dive into anti-blackness within the South Asian entertainment industry, the use of the n-word, the crossover with cultural appropriation and so much more
One of the biggest issues in the United States is disparities in healthcare amongst minorities especially LGBTQ patients. TWD speaks to Dr. Navin Dargani, a psychiatrist in New York City, about the issues facing not only the LGBTQ population but minorities as a whole surrounding colonization, access, medical personnel lacking training, and more. This episode is a must-listen!
Drug addiction--two words that South Asians hardly ever mention in conversation, but an issue that exists far more widely than we recognize. In India alone, the state of Punjab has three times the rate of addiction than the rest of India, with two thirds of the population having an addict in the family. While heroin is the choice drug in Punjab, and TWD focuses on the west, the issue isn't separated by miles the way we'd think. Even in the US, drug use is a rising problem among South Asian populations. On today's episode, we discuss cocaine addiction with Rupal Patel, a former addict now celebrating two years of recovery, and Nimrat Bindra, a drug dependency counselor in Texas who primarily works with felons who have violated their probation with drug use.
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Despite the comical titling of this episode, cultural appropriation is an issue that South Asians not only face but participate in. From bindis in the Halloween aisle, to Christian Yoga...from Gucci turbans to "blaccents," this episode of The Woke Desi delves into the notions of cultural appropriation versus appreciation, how appropriation comes from concepts of colonization and methods used to shame people of color, and how we see it today.
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Divorce. Did it make you shudder? Probably not the same way it's made countless aunties and uncles give a divorced person the side eye. On this episode, TWD takes a different look at divorce within the South Asian community. Speaking with divorce coach Syeda Neary and divorce attorney Divani Nadaraja, topics of discussion include coping mechanisms, coaching through divorce and the process of shame and healing in SA cultures, legal obstacles and uniquely South Asian issues faced when trying to get a divorce, and more. A standout spin on a taboo topic, this episode is a must listen! This episode is brought to you by Bakwaas Apparel! Use our code THEWOKEDESI to get 15% off your order!
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Please be aware this episode has a trigger warning on it for sexual violence, rape, assault, and shaming.
Sexual violence. Rape. Sexual assault. So many names for what can only be considered one thing: a violation of humanity. On this episode, Annika and Nehal do their best with a heavy topic by speaking with two guests--Jitna Bhagani, Founder of She Will Survive, a non-profit aimed at empowering women and girls and deconstructing the attitudes surrounding sexual violence in the South Asian community, and Ragini Chatterjee, a survivor of rape who shared her painful experience and the ways she was able to survive and thrive in spite of it. Topics such as grooming within the South Asian culture, teaching children to own their bodies, understanding how survivors may cope, and how we, as the South Asian collective culture, tend to shame those who have suffered enough, are explored on this episode.
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You asked, we delivered. After a large number of requests to do an episode on Interracial Relationships, TWD is coming at its listeners with a show on two interracial marriages. The first guest, Disha Smith of the blog Disha Discovers, was disowned by her family for falling in love with, and eventually marrying a Caucasian man. The second, Padma Richardson, had the blessing of her family and she explains how she's successfully navigated her interracial marriage with a Caucasian man named Nate, and what challenges they've faced with her traditional background. An eyeopening episode, this one may lead to more intercultural, interracial, and interfaith episodes as we continue on with further seasons!
Let us know what you think by rating and reviewing us with 5-stars on Apple podcasts!
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Eating disorders. In South Asian communities, they are often seen as a "white" problem--and those who suffer from eating disorders are largely described as just "watching their weight." Only emphasizing the unhealthy beauty standards that South Asian communities push upon their members, eating disorders can be a traumatic, lifelong experience. TWD speaks with Vaidehi Gajjar, a survivor of an eating disorder, and Dr. Rachita Sharma, a licensed therapist at the University of North Texas, about eating disorders, the effects on survivors and the unique concerns of South Asian sufferers of these sometimes deadly disorders.
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Co-host Annika Sharma opened up about her depression and anxiety on this episode, along with Harpreet Gill, a listener who contributed her story as a depression survivor. Describing their experiences, physical feelings and coping mechanisms for anxiety, Annika and Nehal also had insights from Ravina Wadhwani, a mental health therapist with the South Asian Network, a grassroots organization aimed at assisting South Asians in the Bay Area with mental health issues, immigration problems, cultural stressors and more. A must-listen for anyone who is interested in how common mental health issues are amongst the South Asian community's women.
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TWD speaks with Pussyriously blogger Srushti Mahamuni about the implications of South Asian discouragement of self-love, masturbation and body exploration, and how to please a sexual partner, paying attention to the clit, vibrators and more! A thought-provoking, relaxed, and fun conversation revolving around female pleasure, this episode is bound to make listeners excited. 18+ only.
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When South Asian men's mental health is searched on Google, there are hardly any significant findings, and contrary to first impressions, it's not because the problem doesn't exist. South Asians as a whole report higher rates of depression and anxiety than their similarly-aged, white counterparts, even after adjustments for socioeconomic status. Most mental health studies related to South Asians have been conducted in the UK, an indicator that Europe is ahead of the United States in recognizing this serious problem.
For the first time, TWD is hosting men on the episode to lend their brilliant insights about their mental health. Abhi Ravinutala, the founder of MannMukti, a non-profit aimed at sharing stories of South Asian mental health survivors, and Adarsh Satish, a survivor of depression and anxiety, speak about their experiences as South Asian men and the sad truth that mental health is a pervasive issue deserving of more attention.
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Living together--two words that cause a flutter of excitement in any gossiping aunty group. In this episode, Nehal and Annika (Resham had a family commitment this week!) explore live-in relationships, or cohabiting, with a significant other before marriage. Laws have only recently been passed in India--the only South Asian country to create a legal form of protection--but social opinions haven't made the same jump to acceptance quite yet, and the hosts explore their own thoughts along with facts and figures about the changing trend of cohabitation in South Asian cultures.
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After a few heavy episodes, TWD takes a look at South Asian entertainment and famous figures. Is Aziz Ansari deserving of another chance? Did Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas make you go, "WTF"? Was Aladdin on your must-watch or must-go lists? From cultural representation to scandals to the social impact of having South Asians on mainstream media, we're talking all things glitz and glamour on Episode 9 of The Woke Desi.
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Pride month just ended but supporting the South Asian LGBTQIA community is something desis should do far more than one month out of the year. This week, the hosts of The Woke Desi speak with the brilliant Priya Arora. Priya is an editor by day, and a podcaster by night. Born and raised in California, they moved to N.Y.C. to pursue a graduate degree in counseling psychology, and found their voice as a community activist and writer. Priya is now an editor at The New York Times, and previously worked at HuffPost and Yahoo. Priya currently serves on the board of SAJA, the South Asian Journalists Association, and previously served on the board of SALGA NYC, the tri-state area's largest South Asian LGBTQ+ organization. They are also the host and creator of Queering Desi, a podcast celebrating South Asian LGBTQ+ people.
As TWD's hosts wrote this episode, they were struck by how much straight privilege they had, and used this as a guiding point for their conversation with Priya. Speaking about LGBTQIA communities within the South Asian population in the US, they discussed rights yet to be won, issues with coming out, and the uniqueness of the challenges faced within brown society. An eye-opening episode, this is one not to be missed.
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Two out of five South Asian women are estimated to be in abusive situations. This staggering statistic is tragically underreported because of societal pressure to keep one's dirty laundry to themselves, a permeating and accepting culture of abuse, and victim blaming that can often lead to secrecy and shame. Despite these disheartening attitudes, one thing is still clear: every single person has a right to safety and South Asians are no different.
On today's episode, we speak with Shikha Patel, LCSW about the signs and red flags to look out for and the different types of abuse that she sees within her work, particularly with South Asian clients. The Woke Desi is also privileged to have another guest on this episode--a young female listener (who wanted to stay anonymous) shares her experience falling in love, getting married and facing domestic abuse from both her husband and her in-laws, leading to her being thrown out with the clothes on her back.
*If you need a list of resources, the girls at The Woke Desi have your back. Please message or email at thewokedesi@gmail.com so we can help. We have your back.
This powerful episode of TWD is a must-listen. Please share, subscribe and rate us on all platforms, as it does help us get seen.
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Gutwrenching, broken silence. That was the only thing left in the wake of guest Shreeda Tailor's story. We had no words.
A husband's sorrow. A mother's grief. Losses that neither they nor doctors can explain clearly--and the sad fact that medicine still struggles to reason the miscarriages and infertility that afflict over 7.4 million women.
The most powerful episode of The Woke Desi explores infertility, miscarriage and South Asian culture. Men contribute to or cause 40% of infertility in couples. 1 in 4 to 1 in 5 pregnancies will end in a miscarriage. With such high rates, one would imagine the South Asian population would speak about these losses and obstacles with more openness but sadly, the opposite is true. For cultures that are so results-driven, the struggle to conceive a child or birth a child is often seen as a failure. Both women and men are encouraged to move on, but are often omitted from religious functions or isolated in their sadness.
Shreeda's story, backed with the expertise of infertility specialist Dr. Rashmi Kudesia, allows men and women of all ages to understand the pain and grieving of this all-too-common loss, support those experiencing it, and serves as a lesson on how to empower oneself regarding your reproductive health. This critical episode is one TWD team hopes everyone will listen to, pass on to those who are suffering, and learn from.
As always, like, subscribe, SHARE, comment on our social media and send us your thoughts on @thewokedesi on all social media.
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Breakups...They suck. Whether you're the heartbreaker or the one whose heart is in a million pieces...breakups are an age-old tale and they never get easier. This week, we discuss why one of our hosts cheated, how it changed her, how to get through a heartbreak...and so much more. Agree or disagree with all we've shared? Let us know @thewokedesi on all social media!
Please like, share, subscribe and comment. We can't wait to hear from you!
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Periods aren't just a girl thing.
In South Asian culture, it means women are often prevented from going to places of worship, mingling with family, or, in Asia, even going to school. In this episode, we explore our own family traditions, why we agree or disagree with the idea of women "sitting out" and being isolated, how periods can often be a giant clash between Eastern and Western ideals, and how menstrual equity is different depending on the part of the world you grow up in. We hope the guys and the girls tune in for this one!
As always, like, subscribe, comment, and share your thoughts with us on social media @thewokedesi on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook.
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Biodatas? Marriage? What?!? The pressure to get married is inevitable once you've come of age—AKA post-grad for most women in South Asian culture. From society’s expectations of looks, wealth, and education to the shame we are made to feel if we are unmarried, this onion just does not stop peeling. A few of us simply want to chase our dreams, others want partners and family, but most of us want the best of both. How can we attain both without feeling broken? Here are three difference takes on this beautiful, but often burdensome, social phenomenon.
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TRIGGER WARNING: Please be aware that this episode contains mentions of suicidal thoughts.
"You're too dark."
"You're too light."
"She must be sick."
"She's 'healthy.'"
The beauty standards in South Asian culture are staggering. We talk to Nehal Mehra, self-love influencer, makeup artist, and all-around brilliant Indian woman, about the bogus standards we as desi women have been held to, how society needs to change and how we can transform our lives by adjusting the way we speak to ourselves.
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"So...what are we?" How many times have we asked that question of the person we're seeing? At the very least, how many times have we wondered what stage of seeing someone we're in? In the world of dating apps, anonymity, and a million options at your fingertips, the landscape of love has transformed into one of swipes, likes, and instant gratification. In this first episode of The Woke Desi, we share a few crazy dating stories, some expectations, and all the WTFs that dating brings. Subscribe, like, and share to support The Woke Desi on all platforms now.
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A blogger. A fashionista. A pop culture genius. If you need anything from lifestyle advice to the latest scoop on celebrities, Nehal is your new best friend. Get to know our gorgeous glam girl and co-host, Nehal Tenany on this raw, unfiltered episode!
A contemporary fiction author. A health communications manager. Two master's degrees. Is there anything Annika hasn't done? From Penn State to the Big Apple, Annika Sharma is here to conquer...get to know our favorite author and wordsmith co-host in this raw, unfiltered interview!
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Three women. Two cities. A million possibilities. With lives in New York and San Francisco, the ladies of The Woke Desi came together for one reason: to give South Asian women (and men!) a voice, a place to call home and a friend to empower them as they make their badass way through life. They're powerful. They're besharam. They're woke.