Shows
Awkward TalksWho are you without the applause?You call it ambition. Responsibility. Being mature. But what if your discipline, your silence, your constant need to get it right have been driven by one quiet fear — losing approval? What if the confidence you show the world is just careful performance? And if the applause stopped tomorrow… would you still be the same?This episode might make you take an uncomfortable look at the voice you’ve been obeying for years. The one that whispers to you, “Don’t disappoint.”
2026-02-2608 min
The Media RoomNasreen Munni Kabir On Classic Hindi Films, Bimal Roy, SRK, Raj Kapoor & All Things CinemaIn this episode of The Media Room, host Vanita Kohli-Khandekar speaks with film historian, author and documentary filmmaker Nasreen Munni Kabir about her lifelong journey documenting, curating and championing Hindi cinema for global audiences. From introducing British viewers to Indian films through her landmark Channel 4 series Movie Mahal to serving on the board of the British Film Institute, Nasreen reflects on how cinema became a cultural bridge for diaspora communities long before the internet connected the world.They discuss what makes Hindi cinema uniquely enduring, how film songs sustained identity for immigrants abroad, and why classic filmmakers...
2026-02-1349 min
Awkward TalksIs the self-love culture making us fragile?Self-love was meant to heal us.Somewhere along the way, it changed us.This conversation explores a shift most people sense but rarely question. How is the new self-love culture quietly shaping how we handle pain, responsibility, relationships, and ourselves.Do listen If you’ve ever felt that something about modern self-love doesn’t fully sit right,
2026-01-2906 min
Awkward TalksWhat is Enough?We spend so much of our lives chasing more... more money, more success, more certainty. We feel that once we reach a certain point, life will finally feel settled. But what if the real question was never how much is enough, but what is enough?This is a quiet and honest conversation about the things we rarely admit we want and the aspects of our life that feels true to us. This just might change how you look at where you already are.
2026-01-0809 min
Awkward TalksParenting - Where Love Outlives Logic!What do a street dog, a tired father, and a penguin in -60° have in common?This episode isn’t just about parenting — it’s about the kind of love that doesn’t need words, rewards, or even recognition. It’s about what we inherit, what we carry, and what we forget to question.If you think you know what parenthood means… listen again.
2025-10-2713 min
Awkward TalksThe Respect ParadoxWe spend so much of our lives chasing respect from others — only to lose respect for ourselves in the process.This episode dives deep into the paradox of respect.If you’ve ever felt unseen, unheard, or not enough, this episode will stir your heart, challenge your beliefs, and remind you of one powerful truth — you don’t need to earn respect, you just need to stop giving it away.Listen in!
2025-09-1107 min
Awkward TalksWhat if your whole life was a mistake?What if you’ve been living someone else’s dream?What if your success feels empty?What if your truth has been buried beneath roles, routines, and fear?Are you really living… or just surviving?And if you had the chance—would you start again?This episode will make you ask the questions you’ve been avoiding.And it might just change everything.Listen now. If you’re ready to remember who you are.Do follow us so that you don't miss any...
2025-07-2915 min
Awkward TalksSelf Love is Great But Do You Even Like You?You’ve tried loving yourself — but something still feels off.Maybe… it’s because you skipped the most important step.In this gentle, heart-opening episode, discover why self-love fails without self-friendship — and how to rebuild the most important relationship in your life: the one with you.This isn’t self-help.It’s self-connection.Press play. Begin again.
2025-07-1011 min
Awkward TalksFrom Smoke to Strength with Col Arun IyerAwkward Talks launches its powerful new segment, "Veteran’s Talk", where veterans break the silence on topics that matter.In this opening episode, Col Arun Iyer—a decorated Special Forces officer, Author, NLP , TA Practitioner and Life Coach—shares how he turned his inner battle against smoking into a mission. From personal struggle to helping others quit in just 14 days, this story is about more than quitting—it's about reclaiming strength, purpose, and pride.Know more at https://transforminds.in
2025-06-2639 min
Awkward TalksStill Rising - The Power of Women over 4040 plus is a time of transition, especially for women. They undergo changes physiologically, mentally, emotionally. Often, society marginalizes them, pushing them to feel neglected, unwanted, disrespected... thinking they have become 'less'.But the opposite is the truth.Women blossom into their powers in their 40s. They know who they are, their values are in place and their focus is steadfast and when given the opportunity, they shine.I had the fortune to moderate a session of incredible women at The Projekt 40's May 2025 session. They were a picture of poise and...
2025-06-1014 min
Outlier's Edge Podcast with Niiamah AshongHow To Turn Setbacks Into Comebacks | Cleopatra Ogharadukun, Cdr Bimal Raj | Ep 744 | Throwback"Don't measure your growth in terms of money. It's like sowing and reaping. You need to sow first, and at some point you will reap." Commander Bimal RajJoin Niiamah (@niiamahashong) in this throwback conversation with Cleopatra Ogharadukun, Cdr Bimal Raj as they share the raw truth about starting over multiple times and why your greatest failures might be your biggest competitive advantage. Learn how authentic vulnerability becomes your superpower in leadership and business.Welcome to the Outlier's Edge Podcast, hosted by Niiamah Ashong, Founder of Outlier's Edge and Sherpa of the World of Difference...
2025-06-0249 min
Awkward TalksGuardians of the Nation : The Power & Pride of the Indian Armed ForcesI’m a proud veteran, and this podcast is my tribute to the greatest force in the world — The Indian Armed Forces.I take you on a fact-driven journey through the evolution, strength, and spirit of our military. No emotional stories — just verified history, strategic milestones, and the unshakeable pride that every Indian must feel.If you stand for Bharat, this episode is for you. Jai Hind !!
2025-05-0916 min
Let's Talk, MelbourneE38. Let's Talk, Melbourne with Aditya - Bimal RoyAditya Aggarwal is a Toronto based film curator and writer. He drops by the pod this week to deep dive into one of the founding furthers of Hindi Cinema Bimal Roy. Roy's Do Bigha Zamin was nominated for the Palme d'Or and he went to make many critically and commercially successful movies such as Parineeta, Biraj Bahu, Devdas, Madhumati, Sujata, Parakh.Aditya and I talk about Roy's movies, cinematography, framing, music and his legacy. Aditya is a thoughtful, informed voice, who is both succinct and eloquent in his insights and observations on cinemas, it was pure joy t...
2025-05-031h 20
Awkward TalksLive-in Relationships in IndiaWe keep hearing about live in partners getting murdered. Naturally it's easy to form opinions about "this kind" of relationships especially in India.Have you ever tried to find out the nuances of it? Maybe you are young and you are considering one. Maybe you are a parent of a young adult who may be considering one.We need to get educated about Live in relationships instead of forming blanket opinions. This podcast is all about that...Please do rate us if you like the episode :)
2025-03-2917 min
Awkward TalksRethinking Virginity & Premarital Sex in Modern IndiaSome conversations are awkward, but they’re the ones we need to have. This episode dives into a topic we usually avoid. Maybe it's time to challenge norms and force us to rethink what we’ve been taught.
It’s time to break silence, question the status quo, and reflect on things we often take for granted.
In this episode, you might find answers, or you might leave with even more questions, but one thing’s certain—you won’t see things the same way after this.
Ready to uncover some truths and spark new th...
2025-01-0816 min
New Books in Southeast Asian StudiesPankaj Jain, "Visual Anthropology of Indian Films: Religious Communities and Cultural Traditions in Bollywood and Beyond" (Routledge, 2024)Visual Anthropology of Indian Films: Religious Communities and Cultural Traditions in Bollywood and Beyond (Routledge, 2024) provides a unique insider’s look at the world’s largest film industry, now globally known as ‘Bollywood’ and challenges existing notions about Indian films.Indian films have been a worldwide phenomenon for decades. Chapters in this edited volume take a fresh view of various hidden gems by maestros such as Raj Kapoor, Bimal Roy, V. Shantaram, Satyajit Ray, Ritwik Ghatak, Mrinal Sen, Shakti Samant, Rishikesh Mukherjee, and others. Other chapters provide a pioneering review and analysis of the portrayal of Indian religious...
2024-12-1227 min
New Books in SociologyPankaj Jain, "Visual Anthropology of Indian Films: Religious Communities and Cultural Traditions in Bollywood and Beyond" (Routledge, 2024)Visual Anthropology of Indian Films: Religious Communities and Cultural Traditions in Bollywood and Beyond (Routledge, 2024) provides a unique insider’s look at the world’s largest film industry, now globally known as ‘Bollywood’ and challenges existing notions about Indian films.Indian films have been a worldwide phenomenon for decades. Chapters in this edited volume take a fresh view of various hidden gems by maestros such as Raj Kapoor, Bimal Roy, V. Shantaram, Satyajit Ray, Ritwik Ghatak, Mrinal Sen, Shakti Samant, Rishikesh Mukherjee, and others. Other chapters provide a pioneering review and analysis of the portrayal of Indian religious...
2024-12-1228 min
New Books in AnthropologyPankaj Jain, "Visual Anthropology of Indian Films: Religious Communities and Cultural Traditions in Bollywood and Beyond" (Routledge, 2024)Visual Anthropology of Indian Films: Religious Communities and Cultural Traditions in Bollywood and Beyond (Routledge, 2024) provides a unique insider’s look at the world’s largest film industry, now globally known as ‘Bollywood’ and challenges existing notions about Indian films.Indian films have been a worldwide phenomenon for decades. Chapters in this edited volume take a fresh view of various hidden gems by maestros such as Raj Kapoor, Bimal Roy, V. Shantaram, Satyajit Ray, Ritwik Ghatak, Mrinal Sen, Shakti Samant, Rishikesh Mukherjee, and others. Other chapters provide a pioneering review and analysis of the portrayal of Indian religious...
2024-12-1228 min
New Books in Indian ReligionsPankaj Jain, "Visual Anthropology of Indian Films: Religious Communities and Cultural Traditions in Bollywood and Beyond" (Routledge, 2024)Visual Anthropology of Indian Films: Religious Communities and Cultural Traditions in Bollywood and Beyond (Routledge, 2024) provides a unique insider’s look at the world’s largest film industry, now globally known as ‘Bollywood’ and challenges existing notions about Indian films.Indian films have been a worldwide phenomenon for decades. Chapters in this edited volume take a fresh view of various hidden gems by maestros such as Raj Kapoor, Bimal Roy, V. Shantaram, Satyajit Ray, Ritwik Ghatak, Mrinal Sen, Shakti Samant, Rishikesh Mukherjee, and others. Other chapters provide a pioneering review and analysis of the portrayal of Indian religious...
2024-12-1227 minOutlier's Edge Podcast with Niiamah AshongLessons from Reinventing Ourselves Repeatedly | Cleopatra Ogharadukun, Cdr Bimal Raj | Ep 593"You don't need to be the biggest expert in your subject, you need to be the most committed student." - Commander BimalJoin Niiamah (@niiamahashong) for a powerful conversation about turning life's setbacks into stepping stones for success. Commander Bimal and Cleopatra share their journeys of starting over multiple times and building thriving businesses through authentic community engagement.Welcome to the Outlier's Edge Podcast, hosted by Niiamah Ashong, Founder of Outlier's Edge and Sherpa of the World of Difference. On this podcast, you'll join other high-performing unconventional leaders and entrepreneurs (aka Outliers) as they talk...
2024-12-1149 min
Awkward TalksYes, Money Can Buy Happiness!Well, I have been told so many times that money cannot buy happiness. Instead of carrying it through my life, I decided to question it. Is it really true that money cannot buy happiness? Listen to the episode and then you tell me :)
2024-11-2112 min
Awkward TalksSharenting - How Parents Put Their Child At Risk!It is rightly said... "The road to hell is paved with good intentions".
Sharenting is a classic proof of this statements. In our eagerness to share about our kids and their achievements and milestones, we could be putting our children at risk. At times, very grave ones.
Are you one of them? Listen and find out more!
2024-10-0318 min
Awkward TalksBreaking the Reel - Women in Entertainment!Should women be in entertainment industry? Why not! Right? Behind the glitz and glamour, there is also a dark side.
This episode draws inspiration from the "Justice Hema Committee Report" that has come out regarding women in malayalam film industry.
Listen in to know all about it.
2024-09-1220 min
Awkward TalksSibling Rivalry - The Silent War at HomeIn this episode, we journey through the painful topic of sibling rivalry.
We will explore the hidden battles, the lifelong impacts, and the journey toward healing.
Let's uncover the roots of our sibling conflicts and find the strength to mend broken bonds.
2024-07-1119 min
Awkward TalksDecoding ScapegoatingJoin us as we explore how this age-old practice of unfairly blaming individuals manifests in our professional and personal lives.
From the new guy at work to the youngest sibling at home, no one is safe from being the fall guy. We discuss the psychological roots of scapegoating, its impacts on mental health and relationships, and provide actionable strategies to prevent and address it.
Listen in to know more...
2024-06-1315 min
Awkward TalksBreaking the Silence on Adult-Onset TraumaI am a coach and a good one. I help people process their childhood traumas and other difficult experiences that they may have experienced in their lives.
Even I did not realize that I have been through multiple situations of Adult-Onset Trauma in my own life.
Most of us have been through this in the past few years but may not even be aware of this.
Listen in to know more...
2024-05-2316 min
Awkward TalksTime to Re-think "Beta Shaadi Karlo (Get Married)"?Beta, Shaadi Karlo
Such a standard line is it right? Once someone reaches a 'marriageable age', the society and uncles and aunties falls over themselves to get people married. But let us think, does a wedding have to be the ultimate reason for happiness?
Drawing from personal experiences and societal influences, we examine the notion of "happily ever after" portrayed in Disney movies, familial narratives, and cultural norms.
Is it right to force our kids to get married?
2024-05-0214 min
Awkward TalksDon't Focus on Your Child's HappinessAs a parenting coach, I always tell parents that it's not just enough that you love your children. They should feel the love from you, their parents.
However, some parents confuse showing love with making the children happy always. They feel that the child feels loved only when they are happy, and all their challenges are removed by the parents.
This is not only unhealthy but can have long term ill effects even into their adulthood.
Listen in to know more about this!
2024-04-1218 min
Awkward TalksIndia's Latest Epidemic - LonelinessWe are the most populated country in the world. Yet, an epidemic of Loneliness is sweeping through India.
What and why is this happening? Why are we hearing more and more stories of people slipping into social isolation, leading to adverse effects on mental health?
In this podcast I deep dive into this epidemic. The causes, the most affected demographics and most importantly, what we can do about it.
Do rate our podcast if you like it.
2024-03-2219 min
Awkward TalksCaring for Old Parents - The Weight of Affection in IndiaThis episode was one of the toughest for me to record.
I had to stop several times to collect my emotions while recording this because the topic is personal, is emotional and is sensitive.
I talk about caring for aging parents and about how the guardians of our lives are now in need of support.
And how, one day you suddenly become THE caregiver.
I talk about the love, challenges, and quiet sacrifices behind caring for the elderly. The challenges are many and fraught with emotions, guilt and heart wrenching decisions.
2024-03-0719 min
Awkward TalksSingle Parenting - A Journey of Love & ResilienceIn moments of conflict, pride, or overwhelming love for our daughter, I instinctively turn to my wife, sharing every parenting high and low. This unity makes me deeply admire single parents' incredible strength and resilience. How do they navigate parenting's challenges and joys alone?
In this episode, we talk about the tough parts and the strong parts of raising kids alone in India.
Please do share this with the Single Parents you know.
Please do rate our podcast if you like it 😊🙏🏼
2024-02-2215 min
Awkward TalksDouble Income No Kids (DINKs) Couples - Smart or Selfish?There is a new breed of couples emerging rapidly in India. They are the DINK couples.
They are often criticized and called selfish, especially in India since parenthood comes very high in our families.
In this episode, I explore the possible reasons for people to choose this lifestyle. After listening, I would like YOU to decide if they are Smart or Selfish!
2024-02-0817 min
Raj Shamani's Figuring OutWatch This To Avoid Heart Attack - Exercise, Food & Treatment | Dr. Bimal Chhajer | FO 164 Raj ShamaniOrder 'Build, Don't Talk' (in English) here: https://amzn.eu/d/eCfijRu
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2024-02-071h 08
Awkward TalksI have Autism vs I am AutisticWhat is Autism? It is the third most common developmental disorder. In India more than 18 million people have Autism.
However, there is a lack of knowledge about this condition leading to a lot of misunderstanding and ignorance.
This podcast is meant to demystify Autism. They are amazing individuals whose brain functions differently.
Just changing the statement from I have Autism to I am Autistic is very powerful as it embraces Autism as part of their identity. This is not a problem to be fixed. It is part of humanity.
Our hope...
2024-01-2510 min
Awkward TalksMake your WILL if you love your familyAre you prepared for your death? Uncomfortable question. Isn't it? We don't like to think about it much. We want to live a full life, work hard and save up and secure the future of our families, right?
Unfortunately, all your goodwill and effort can be of no use to your family if you haven't made your WILL yet. They may end up with much less than what you would've liked or worse, with nothing.
Listen in to understand why this is one of the most important tasks for each and every person who claims...
2024-01-1814 min
Awkward TalksWhy your New Year resolutions don't work!I am sure you have made at least one New Year resolution for 2024. Do you know that more than 80% give up on theirs within just 03 months?
Listen in to know why and how you can make sure that you not only stay on but also accomplish what you have set out to accomplish this year.
Learn how you can ensure that this year will not be like your previous years.
Have an amazing 2024!
2024-01-1120 min
Awkward TalksMyth Buster - Is Christmas really about Christ?Christmas is a festival that I have loved and enjoyed right from childhood. There are bright colors, lights, carols, cakes and so much more.
We celebrate it as the birth of Jesus Christ, but is that really the truth?
In this episode, I talk about how Christmas in its current form came into being by including different customs from different parts of the world.
This does not take anything away from this lovely festival. So, enjoy your Christmas celebrations and the traditions of Christmas trees and gift giving!
2023-12-2111 min
Awkward TalksNot everyone will like you - Its Okay!We like someone, but somehow, they don't like us. Why does that happen?
Why do some of us have the compulsive need to be liked by others?
Girls are told from early childhood about behaving in a way that pleases others. How does it affect their individuality?
Finally, is it really ok if people don't like us?
Listen in to know it all!
2023-12-1414 min
Awkward TalksThe challenge with our education systemDid you know that our education system originated from a model that was used to train soldiers in the 18th century?
It was designed to teach them how to read and write and follow instructions without asking too many questions to the authority.
Most of us do not know this. I too learned this only from my mentor Blair Singer.
Listen in to know the truth about our education system.
2023-11-3014 min
Awkward TalksHow to get overpainful memoriesWe all have several bad memories stored in our brain that we want to forget. It takes a toll on us every time we remember them.
If you have experienced a serious trauma, like domestic violence, or childhood abuse, they can take a serious toll on your life.
How can we get over them? Is it even possible?
Listen in to find out!
2023-11-2317 min
Awkward TalksToxic FemininityMost of us have heard of the term Toxic Masculinity.
The term originated in the mythopoetic men's movement of the 1980s and 1990s. This talks about all the toxic "manly" traits that makes life difficult for people around.
Have you heard of Toxic Femininity? This came into mainstream less than a decade back.
What do you think does this mean? Listen in to find out the truth about Toxic Femininity!
Let's discuss it in this podcast and see how to recognize it, overcome it and avoid it.
2023-11-1612 min
Awkward TalksHalloween and the legend behind itWell, I don't know if this is an "Awkward Talk" but is definitely an interesting talk.
In this episode, I talk about the often misunderstood and lesser-known festival of Halloween. How it originated and how it reached the present form.
Interestingly, India also has our own festivals to honor the deceased. You get to know about these also in this episode!
Happy Halloween everyone!
2023-11-0207 min
Awkward TalksCare Givers - The Unsung Heroes in Mental HealthDo you know what is discussed even less than mental health issues? The general well-being of the caregivers of mental health patients!
Usually, the caregivers are untrained family members who go through physical, mental, financial and emotional turmoil. And often, their silent scream for help is overlooked/ unheard.
It is time to recognize and acknowledge that the caregivers also need some care and love.
This podcast is a hat-tip to those awesome people who are selflessly helping mental health patients, be it their child...
2023-10-2813 min
Awkward TalksDear Men, Why are we so emotionally challenged?You don't get a response
You don't get an acknowledgement to your statements
You don't get relevant answers
Infact, you feel the person you are speaking with is not even listening to you!
How many of you feel the above when you share something with someone dear to you?
Usually men, me included, are often the ones who are blamed for everything I mentioned. It is so common to accuse men of being emotionally distant or disconnected.
Have we ever wondered why it is...
2023-10-2113 min
Awkward TalksWhat happens when your brain is hijacked?When emotions take over your brain, we call it an Amygdala Hijack. Anger, aggression, fear, and stress are all common emotional triggers that set off a chain of reactions we may not have had, if not for this hijack.
The amygdala when triggered activates the fight-or-flight response when there is a perceived threat to a our safety. At times like this, we may not be able to develop a rational response. It is imperative we learn to recognize these triggers in ourselves and others and understand how to overcome it.
This episode is about just th...
2023-10-1215 min
Awkward TalksSuicide - Choosing Death Over Life!
The number of student suicides in India is rising at an alarming rate, in 2022, student suicides increased by 4.5%, with around 35 deaths reported each day. The causes that lead youngsters to take this terrible step vary from peer pressure to identity issues, ragging to discrimination, societal stress to mental health, expectations to relationship issues.
It is a burden like no other when a loved one chooses to end their life. This becomes far worse when the loved one is a child.
We need to talk about this, because communication is the key.
2023-10-0520 min
Awkward TalksGlimmer - The Opposite of TriggerAs humans, we are hardwired in a way to be attentive to triggers, more so those that signal potential threats or dangers. This evolutionary trait has helped our ancestors survive in a world filled with risks.
However, in our modern lives, where many of us are fortunate to live in relatively safe and stable environments, it is essential to shift our focus towards looking for glimmers rather than fixating solely on triggers.
It's a shift in perspective that allows us to appreciate the richness of our experiences and the beauty that surrounds us, even in...
2023-09-1411 min
Awkward TalksUnveiling My First Book: "What Next"This book is the culmination of my long pending dream... In this book, I have bared my life... My challenges, frustrations and desperations when I faced major setbacks in life and how it changed me as a person and how I learned to overcome them with a two-word mantra...
This can be read as an autobiography of my life and also as a powerful self-help book that can help you get out of any desperate situation you might be going through.
This book is the result of the deadly combination of an intense desire to...
2023-09-1101 min
Awkward TalksMarital Rape - Suffering in SilenceMarital Rape is an issue that even our government and judiciary are not willing to take a stand on. In a patriarchal society like India, this becomes an evil that a lot of women go through in silence.
Despite a woman's achievements or position at work and society, despite their societal stature, this evil perpetuates even into affluent bedrooms.
We need to have more discussions about this topic but more importantly, we need to create safe spaces for women to come forward and speak about it openly, without feeling judged.
2023-08-3112 min
Awkward TalksCovert Narcissism
Narcissists and danger are inextricably linked. Those who have been affected by narcissism are more likely to suffer as a result. They use force, dominate, gaslight, and disrespect boundaries. This type of behavior, in addition to frustrating and demeaning, affects the self-esteem of the people around them negatively.
Covert narcissists are passive, but they can be just as destructive to relationships as the extroverted or Overt types. The emotional abuse might be more silent and subtle, but can wear you down and demoralize you.
In this episode, I talk about Narcissistic behavior, di...
2023-08-2414 min
Awkward TalksLet's Talk About Andropause or Male Menopause
We have spoken about perimenopause and menopause. It is time to also speak up about its male equivalent - Andropause or Male Menopause.
The emotional upheaval men experience at this time is often seen as a 'refusal to ageing'. It is imperative to understand that andropause is different from mid-life crisis and though it affects several areas of life, it is largely a biological process.
In this episode of Awkward Talks, I speak about How it is different from Menopause or Midlife crisis, What that can you do about itWhat you should not att...
2023-08-1010 min
Awkward TalksHow to have the "Sex Talk" with your childIt's always awkward talking to your child about sex and sexuality. Especially in our country, where it is looked upon as something that should be hidden or worse, looked at as a sin.
Sex education is important and it is best if parents help their children understand sex, sexuality, consent, precautions and sexually transmitted diseases. It not only helps the child believe that their parent understands them, but also builds their confidence in themselves as individuals.
In this episode, I have shared when you should have the "talk", what to share at what age and...
2023-08-0316 min
Awkward TalksEnergy Vampires and how to avoid them.Have you ever wondered why interacting with some people can leave you tired and drained?
The term 'Energy Vampire' is used to describe a person who gets increased energy around other people, but leaves those other people exhausted or "drained" of energy.
In this episode of Awkward Talks, let's discuss how you can identify and protect yourself from Energy Vampires.
2023-07-2715 min
Awkward TalksWhy do people stay in bad marriages?We see a lot of people who just carry on in-spite of being miserable. We are in no way saying that you give up on relationships at the first hint of trouble, but we are asking you to question a status quo that is leading to immense unhappiness ... for all parties involved.
In this episode, we discuss the questions and scenarios you need to envision and answer in order to make a logical decision with regards to a marriage that is not working.
2023-07-1320 min
Awkward TalksLet's talk about PerimenopauseLoss of concentration, skin and hair issues, hot flashes, mood swings, anxiety ... Did you know all these symptoms plus plenty more are often caused by the onset of Perimenopause in women (usually aged between 40-44)? Did you know perimenopause is the precursor of Menopause - aka end of periods?
We didn't know much about Perimenopause before we read up about it. When women form such an important part of our lives and society, shouldn't we learn about what troubles them so much?
In this episode, my friend Uma Iyer...
2023-07-0609 min
Awkward TalksMom vs Wife - Whose side to take?One perennial question for many men post their marriage is - Who do I support? The Mom or the Wife?
On one side is your mother who has been your everything from birth and on the other side is your wife who will be with you for the rest of your life.
This episode explores the complexities of these relationships and suggests ways to handle it and make life easier for everyone in a respectful, loving manner.
2023-06-2914 min
Awkward TalksMid-Life Crisis : Dear Men, is this what you are going through?I turned 50 last month. For a week or so before my birthday, I felt terribly low and anxious. I questioned every decision I had made till date. I fretted over future plans. Suddenly a cough or mild fever was made a huge deal in my head. I was furiously making plans to maximise every moment of the day. I was constantly looking for an adrenaline rush.
I was not this person. So why this sudden fear?
Mid-life crisis. It happens. When it hits, it hits hard. Some men get off with minor...
2023-06-2213 min
Awkward TalksHappy Pride Month - What is Gender & SexualityJune is celebrated as PRIDE month all over the world. What is PRIDE month? Why is it called PRIDE? Why in June every year?
I share about all this. More importantly, I talk about Gender and Sexuality which are very important for all of us to understand and appreciate, going forward.
Listen in to get a full understanding.
2023-06-1514 min
Awkward TalksIntermittent Explosive disorder, aka Road Rage.Road rage or aggressive driving accounts for more than 50% of fatal automobile crashes.
What is Road Rage and how does it happen? How can you prevent it? I talk about all this in this episode.
I also talk about the science behind applying sudden brakes to your vehicle. It is more complex than you think!
2023-06-0814 min
Awkward TalksDear Parent of a Teenager, Your baby is gone & its ok!Parenting a teenager is a completely different ball game than raising younger kids.
Every day is a new challenge, a new discovery, a new win (or loss).
As a teen parenting coach and as a parent to a teenager, my advice is to go easy.. on yourself and on your child.
There are going to be a lot of changes - physiological, mental, emotional and social. There are going to be power struggles and arguments and huge meltdowns... But there are also going to be some really beautiful moments.
This podcast is about what to expect when you are expecting...
2023-05-2511 min
Awkward TalksMale Puberty -Things to Speak with Your BoyHeads-up:
This Podcast will use the term “male” to refer to a person’s sex assigned at birth.
Unfortunately, in our culture, there is still a lot of stigma against speaking or discussing anything related to sex, sexual organs and anything even remotely associated with it.
Now we hear a little about Female puberty and menstruation (link to earlier podcast) but there is still radio silence about Male puberty.
This podcast highlights:
- what is male puberty
- what are the common changes (physical)
- what a parent can do to help a child cope with all these sudden changes
2023-05-1812 min
Awkward TalksGaslighting is Emotional AbuseGaslighting is a form of emotional abuse in which one person manipulates another person into doubting their own perceptions, memory, and sanity.
Merriam-Webster, the US dictionary publisher, announced that its 2022 word of the year is "gaslighting" due to the tremendous growth in the word's popularity.
Gaslighting can occur in all types of relationships, like romantic partnerships, friendships, and family relationships.
Listen to this episode of Awkward Talks to understand
- the how, what, and why of Gaslighting
- tips for...
2023-05-1112 min
Awkward TalksGrief Part 02 - Millennials Grieve DifferentlyGrief is a universal emotion but how one copes with it depends upon the individual and surprisingly, on the generation the individual belongs to.
Millennials grieve differently from their predecessors. Being digital natives, they often tend to be more connected with the virtual world and are more likely to find solace online.
This podcast highlights:
- The reason Millennials grieve differently
- What to do if you are a Millennial who is mourning the loss of a loved one
- How can you...
2023-05-0411 min
Awkward TalksGrief And Its Stages - Part IPart one
Grief, in simple terms, is adjusting to a loss. It can be any loss, be it the loss of a loved one, a dream, a job, or even trust. It can be big or small, last for hours or years, feel as sharp as the cut of a knife, or dull as a deep bruise. No matter the specific circumstances, grief is always normal.
This is something all of us go through. We also see our near and dear ones go through it. It is very rare that we try to understand it...
2023-04-2719 min
Awkward TalksDear Men, Lets Talk About Menstruation
I was 26 years old when I came to know about menstruation. I was raised with two sisters and a household full of female cousins and friends and yet, I knew literally nothing about something that half the population in the world goes through every month.
My dear fellow men, it is time for us to cut through taboos and superstitions and learn about menstruation.
It is time to understand what our mothers, sisters, partners and daughters go through.
My podcast on menstruation was a learning journey for me. I hope it opens your m...
2023-04-2011 min
Awkward TalksHow to Make Self-Doubt Work for You?I think Self-Doubt is not as bad as it is made out to be.
Have you ever felt this irritating little voice at the back of your head saying… you are not
good enough… you don’t know enough … you are going to make a fool of yourself …
Well, if you have, then you must listen to this episode because I will be talking about one of
the most common issues that we all face. It is called Self-Doubt.
By the end of the podcas...
2023-04-1314 min
Awkward TalksAwkward Talks - Coming SoonThere are some things you discuss with family, some with friends and some you push under the carpet and hope they go away. But you know what? These are not things you ignore; these are things that need to be discussed - openly, without bias, without judgement.
And that is exactly what Awkward Talks is all about. The world is all about black and white, here, we discuss the greys. From menstruation to self-doubt, from male puberty to gender identity, let's talk about it all.
Tune in every week...
2023-04-0601 min
Motorsport 411#EP47 State of Karting Championship in KenyaOn Motorsport 411 with Sean Cardovillis this week,
We preview the 6th Round of the Kenya National Rally Championship, the Nanyuki Rally, with the Clerk of Course Bimal Patel, who shares more insights on what is in store for both the drivers and rally enthusiasts this weekend at Greystones, Nanyuki.
We check on the state of the Kenya National Karting Championship with Norris Ongalo, who is a member of the Karting Commission; along with Raj Dadhley, owner of the TGRV Track.
Host: Sean Cardovillis
...
2022-09-0133 min
Bollywood is For LoversMr. Criterion: Do Bigha Zamin and Shree 420Our favourite boutique film label, Criterion, has finally acknowledged Hindi cinema with two series on their streaming channel devoted to acclaimed filmmakers Bimal Roy and Raj Kapoor.
Show Notes:
We checked the list, we have 133 Criterion films including the Eclipse box sets
The Criterion Collection and the Criterion Channel
NYT: How the Criterion Collection Crops Out African-American Directors
This is the podcast where the Bollywood boxset rumours come from
Episode 69 on Raj Kapoor and episode 87 on Madhumati
Directed by Bimal Roy at the Criterion Channel
Do Bigha Zamin
Erin saw this film in her proletarian literature co...
2021-05-191h 05
The Midlife StationDeveloping Strong Mindset and Being an Insightful Parent with CDR Bimal Raj:TMS17On the show today we have with us Commander Bimal Raj who has served the Indian Navy and our country for 17 long years. He is indeed a multi-talented person from being an Internationally certified trainer, executive coach to being an entrepreneur and founder of Insightful ParentBeing bedridden for 2 long years in a hospital, Commander Bimal Raj is a perfect testimony to how one can develop a strong mindset.After serving for the Indian Navy for 17+ years, he successfully reinvented himself during his midlife not only by being part of an elite team of world-class trainers...
2021-03-2855 min
Haal-Chaal Theek Thaak HaiEp2 Migration In Our Popular Culture, Jaidev and A Surprise At The End02 August, 2020 शुक्रिया दोस्तो, हाल-चाल ठीक-ठाक है के पहले एपिसोड को समय देने के लिये और आपकी प्रतिक्रियाओं के लिये बहुत सारा शुक्रिया. कोरोना काल ज़ारी है, और इस हफ़्ते दूसरा एपिसोड लेकर हम हाज़िर हैं जिसमे इस बार की बात-चीत का विषय है मजदूरों का पलायन, हमारे देश में कोरोना काल की सबसे मार्मिक घटनाओं में से एक, और बड़े स्तर हुआ पे ये पलायन हमें विभाजन के समय हुए बड़े पलायन की याद दिलाता है.. इस एपिसोड में पॉपुलर कल्चर ने किस तरह से विभिन्न किस्म के पलायनों का दस्तावेजीकरण/डॉक्यूमेंटेशन किया है, इस पर चर्चा करते हुए धरती के लाल, दो बीघा ज़मीन, सुबर्नरेखा जैसी फ़िल्मों के साथ साथ ये चर्चा भी कि शैलेन्द्र ने अपने गीतों में इस पलायन को जितनी बखूबी से पेश किया है वो एक सांस्क्रूतिक विचारक के तौर पर उनकी कला को एक नया आयाम देता है. स्पॉट-लाइट में इस बार संगीतकार जयदेव हैं जिनकी ३ अगस्त को १०२वीं जयंती है. इसके अलावा हमेशा की तरह बातें हाल में पढ़ी किताबों की और देखी फ़िल्मों की.. और अन्त में एक खास पेशकश.. Friends, We are grateful for the love and the feedback you shared with us for our first episode. In today's episode we talk about migration. The pandemic has led to the exodus of millions of our fellow citizens from our cities. We look at migration in popular culture and trace its origins from the times of Saigal, Mehboob Khan, Ritwik Ghatak, Ray, Bimal Roy and Raj Kapoor. We discuss the poetry of Shailendra that captured the lived experience of migrants and the gentle yet deep impact his words had in our cinema and wider culture. In our spotlight section, we profile Jaidev – a music director who often doesn't get his due despite an oeuvre that's rich in Indian music heritage and quality. On the eve of his birth anniversary, we pay our tribute to his genius through films like Hum Dono, Gaman, Gharonda and Reshma Aur Shera. We close with our what we are reading, listening and watching section. And we have a surprise guest at the end. LinkOuts Books A House For Mr. Biswas (V.S. Naipaul); Interpreter Of Maladies (Jhumpa Lahiri); Jhoota Sach (a novel in 2 volumes by Yashpal); Gated Republic by Shankkar Aiyar; Dastan-e-Mughal-e-Azam (Rajkumar Keswani); Parakhnali (Akbar & Azam Quadri) Films Subarnarekha (1965): The third part of Ritwik Ghatak's partition trilogy
2020-08-021h 31
Filmy Kisse By RakeshRAJ SHAMMI SHASHI NAHI BANE BHAYIWhy Bimal Roy suggested B.R.Chopra not to cast kapoors in his film .
2020-07-1702 min
2012-06-0120 min