Shows
Sri Lanka - Modern Perspectives from an Ancient Melting PotSelyn Textiles: Weaving a Future for Sri Lankan ArtisansThis episode features Selyna Peiris of Selyn Textiles, a prominent fair trade handloom and social enterprise in Sri Lanka. Founded by Selyna's mother nearly 35 years ago with the aim of providing work for women, Selyna shares her journey from aspiring diplomat and UN-hopeful to taking over the creative legacy business. She discusses the importance of collaboration, fair pay, and sustainable business practices. Additionally, Selyna talks about launching Femcare, a project to produce reusable sanitary pads and its potential global impact. This conversation delves into the challenges and triumphs of running a Sri Lankan social enterprise and the vital role o...2025-04-2750 min
Sri Lanka - Modern Perspectives from an Ancient Melting PotRehan Unveiled: A Creative Odyssey from Sri Lanka to LAIn this episode we delve into the fascinating journey of Rehan Mudannayake, a Sri Lankan Actor, Director, and Writer who made his screen debut in the film 'Funny Boy' directed by the acclaimed Deepa Mehta. Rehan recounts his unique path into acting, the influence of his diverse upbringing, and his commitment to changing the narrative around brown people in film. He discusses his creative processes, his life in Brixton, and his latest projects, including a comedy series called 'Cougar' and an upcoming film in LA. A charming guest who shares generously, tune in to hear how Rehan blends personal...2025-04-1548 min
Sri Lanka - Modern Perspectives from an Ancient Melting PotEmbodying Change: Rangi Fernando on Dance, Therapy, and Cultural RootsIn this episode Dee chats to Rangi Fernando, a Sri Lankan-born dancer and dance movement therapist who has recently returned to Sri Lanka after living in Germany. Rangi shares her journey of transitioning back to her homeland and her passion for Dance Movement Therapy (DMT), which she believes is a powerful tool for self-expression and therapy. She discusses her first major community performance project, 'Spotlight,' aimed at empowering women through dance. The episode delves into the origins and benefits of DMT, Rangi's unique career shift from accounting to dance, and shares insights on the connection between mind and...2025-04-0148 min
Sri Lanka - Modern Perspectives from an Ancient Melting PotConversations on Indigenous Culture with innovator Revatha ShahIn this episode Dee speaks with Revatha Shah, founder of Vedda Teas and co-founder of Sarana, a cultural centre in southern Sri Lanka. Revatha shares his journey from Western upbringing in Colombo and the UK to reconnecting with his Sri Lankan roots through promoting indigenous herbs and teas. The episode includes moving accounts on the existential threats to the indigenous Vedda population, the effects of colonisation and modern tourism, and the pressing need to support local Sri Lankan businesses. The conversation highlights the challenges and opportunities in balancing tourism with preserving Sri Lankan cultural heritage, and Revatha’s e...2025-03-1447 min
Sri Lanka - Modern Perspectives from an Ancient Melting PotWhite Lotus actress Shalini Peiris' Journey to the StageIn the second series of 'Sri Lanka: Modern Perspectives from an Ancient Melting Pot', host Dee Gibson interviews actress Shalini Peiris, who is set to appear in the third series of 'White Lotus'. They discuss Shalini's upbringing in a multi-faith household in Sri Lanka and beyond, and her journey from academia and human rights activism to acting. Shalini shares the gritty challenges and triumphs of her acting career, the impact of her heritage, and her experience on the stage, screen and on the much anticipated 'White Lotus' series. The conversation also explores Sri Lanka's creative industry and its cultural...2025-02-1747 min
Jay'sAnalysisLA Fires, Rogan & Mel Gibson, Wes Huff, Tarantino, Elon Vs Kier & Dyer vs Razorfist!Today we catch up on recent hot topics, including new Rogan episodes discussing theology as well as Hollywood, including the recent Mel and Tarantino installments, and the Dee Eee Eye elements in the LA fires as well as Fabian socialism in Keir Vs Elon. Send Superchats at any time here: https://streamlabs.com/jaydyer/tip Get started with Bitcoin here: https://www.swanbitcoin.com/jaydyer/ The New Philosophy Course is here: https://marketplace.autonomyagora.com/philosophy101 Set up recurring Choq subscription with the discount code JAY44LIFE for 44% off now https://choq.com Lore coffee is here: https://www.patristicfaith...2025-01-102h 34
Sri Lanka - Modern Perspectives from an Ancient Melting PotSeason Finale: Exploring an Author's Life with Ashok FerryThe final episode of Season 1 and Dee talks to acclaimed Sri Lankan author Ashok Ferry about his multifaceted life, including his experiences studying at Oxford University, attending a Benedictine monastery in Sussex, his journey as a property developer in the UK and his role in founding the Galle and Ceylon Literary Festivals. Ashok shares insights into his life and his unique creative process. They discuss the cultural richness of Sri Lanka, its emerging creative talents, and the emotional depths of Ashok's work. The episode features Ashok reading a personal and moving excerpt from his book 'The Unmarriageable...2024-12-191h 08
Sri Lanka - Modern Perspectives from an Ancient Melting PotAudacity, Art & Diaspora: Siobhan D’Almeida's Creative RevolutionThe episode features an interview with Siobhan D'Almeida, an artist, designer, and activist who returned to Sri Lanka from Dubai amidst COVID and economic crises. Recorded on a particularly stormy day, resonant of the upheavals that Siobhan went through, she shares her experience of cultural shock, her role in the 2022 People's Uprising (Aragalya), and her iconic artwork that became a symbol of unity and strength. Dee and Siobhan discuss the transformative power of art, community projects with underprivileged children, and the vibrant creative scene in Sri Lanka. The conversation explores themes of identity, creativity, activism, and the...2024-12-1328 min
Sri Lanka - Modern Perspectives from an Ancient Melting PotRoma Wells: Tales from BBC Travel Presenter and AuthorIn this episode Dee interviews Roma Wells, the new BBC TV Travel presenter who shares her unique journey and experiences as an Irish Sri Lankan. They discuss Roma's career inspiration, her travels to destinations like the Arctic and Costa Rica, and delve into her childhood, highlighting how her heritage and passion for nature have shaped her. Roma talks about her book, 'Seek the Singing Fish,' available widely in bookstores and online. She has launched her new company, Curious Fox Travel, which creates responsible and enriching travel experiences and the conversation covers how travellers and hoteliers can co...2024-12-071h 03
Sri Lanka - Modern Perspectives from an Ancient Melting PotALKE Design : Sexy, Fierce and Fabulous Jewellery Redefining Fashion and WellnessDee interviews Sara Nazoor, founder of the Sri Lankan jewellery brand ALKE. The conversation delves into Sara's journey of creating unique and show stopping pieces using recycled materials and considering emotions of the designer and the user. They discuss ALKE's eco-friendly approach, mental health advocacy, and Sara's 73-day walk around Sri Lanka to raise awareness for mental health and suicide prevention. The podcast highlights the blend of creativity, sustainability, and emotional expression in Sara's work and her vision for scaling ALKE by empowering communities through sustainable practices.Summary00:00 Introduction to the Podcast2024-12-0130 min
Sri Lanka - Modern Perspectives from an Ancient Melting PotLiberate Your Spirit with Omaya: Yoga and Freedom for Young WomenIn this episode Dee welcomes Omaya, a Sri Lankan yoga teacher and philosopher. They delve into how yoga philosophy differs in the West from Sri Lanka, focusing on mind-body connection, menstrual cycle awareness, and the balance of masculine and feminine energies. This conversation highlights the importance of tuning into our bodies and creating space for introspection, both in life and in spiritual practice. Thoughts on "successful meditation" and Omaya's future plans for opening a sanctuary dedicated to Ayurvedic and Sri Lankan food, yoga, and workshops.Omaya's early discovery of yoga aged 18 was a quest for fr...2024-11-2834 min
Sri Lanka - Modern Perspectives from an Ancient Melting PotDiaspora Diaries : Zaynab Zubair on Identity, Culture, Creativity and Finding SerendipityIn this episode host Dee Gibson welcomes British Sri Lankan writer Zaynab Zubair. Dee and Zaynab explore a myriad of topics surrounding Sri Lankan identities and the diaspora experience and Zaynab reads an excerpt from her upcoming book 'Finding Serendipity,' which delves into themes of migration, identity, and the cultural interplay between Sri Lanka and Britain. They reflect on the historical influence of colonialism, the complexities of religious identities, and how cultural upbringing shapes personal narratives. The conversation highlights the importance of storytelling in capturing the nuanced experiences of the Sri Lankan diaspora.The...2024-11-2341 min
Sri Lanka - Modern Perspectives from an Ancient Melting PotIrushi Tenekoon on animating Minnette de Silva : Is this an Architectural Documentary?This episode features a conversation with Irushi Tenekoon, an award-winning animator from Sri Lanka. Dee and Irushi discuss her journey into animation, her work on 'The Animate Her Series', and her film about Minnette de Silva, a pioneering female architect in 1950s Sri Lanka. Despite her innovative approach to social housing and significant contributions, Minnette's work has been undervalued until now and conversations cover what Minnette did for architecture. The episode emphasises the importance of highlighting Sri Lankan stories and talents on international platforms to challenge mainstream narratives and celebrate local heroes.Summary00:00 Introduction to...2024-11-1741 min
Sri Lanka - Modern Perspectives from an Ancient Melting PotMinnette de Silva : with Shiromi Pinto and Selva SandrapragasThis episode hosted by Dee Gibson, focuses on the dynamic and under-appreciated life of Minette De Silva, a pioneering Sri Lankan architect. Guests Selva and Shiromi discuss their personal connections to De Silva and the extensive research that led to Shiromi's novel, 'Plastic Emotions,' which explores De Silva's complex life and contributions. The conversation covers De Silva's unique approach to architecture, her bold personality, and why she has been largely forgotten despite her groundbreaking work. They highlight the gender and political dynamics that contributed to her erasure from history. The guests emphasise De Silva's innovative participatory...2024-11-131h 00