Shows
My Thick AccentThe Invisible Journey: What Immigration Teaches Us About Ourselves | Beneath The Accent with Dhara MajmundarClick here to text me your thoughts about the show!What does it mean to truly travel? In this heartfelt conversation, Dhara opens up about her immigration journey to Canada and how her definition of exploration has evolved in unexpected ways.The most poignant moment comes when Dhara reflects on what being an immigrant has taught her. "We understand so many different perceptions because we understand two different societies, east and West polar apart," she explains. "I feel very fortunate to be the immigrant because now I know and understand both parts of the world."...2025-05-0810 min
My Thick AccentSoul Search Before Job Search: A Career Coach’s Blueprint for Newcomer Success | Ft. Yauhan Mehta Ep. 069Click here to text me your thoughts about the show!What does it truly take for international talent to thrive in Canada? Beyond skills and qualifications, success hinges on something more fundamental - mindset, clarity, and strategic planning.Yauhan Mehta, an industrial-organizational psychologist and career coach with 15 years of experience, unravels the complex journey of immigration through his own story of moving from India to Dubai and finally to Canada. Having helped hundreds of professionals secure positions at top firms like Amazon, Deloitte, and EY, Yauhan brings a unique perspective on what makes international talent...2025-05-0148 minMy Thick AccentThe Unexpected Power of Doing Good: A Beautiful Twist of Fate | Ft. Rafael Rodrigues Ep. 068 [Part 2]Click here to text me your thoughts about the show!Part 1 | Ft. Rafael: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1835261/episodes/16926932What happens when a single decision to help others completely redirects your life's path? In this captivating continuation of my conversation with Rafael, we explore the remarkable chain of events that began with his humanitarian project in Malawi and culminated in a new life in Canada.Rafael reveals how a YouTube video of his work in Africa caught the attention of a Colombian woman who donated to his cause. Through a series of serendipitous events...2025-04-2443 minMy Thick AccentFrom Brazil to Africa: A Radical Reimagining of Purpose | Ft. Rafael Rodrigues Ep. 068 [Part 1]Click here to text me your thoughts about the show!What happens when success doesn’t feel like success? In this powerful episode, we meet Rafael, a Brazilian changemaker who walked away from a traditional path to pursue humanitarian work in Africa. Raised in the harsh realities of São Paulo—where seeing violence was part of daily life—Rafael followed society's rules until a moment of deep reckoning at age 25.Inspired by author Paulo Coelho, Rafael left behind everything familiar and traveled to Malawi, where his passion...2025-04-171h 08My Thick AccentThe Hummingbird Effect: How Cultural Authenticity Creates Belonging | Beneath The Accent with Yannick Oho BambeClick here to text me your thoughts about the show!In this Beneath the Accent spotlight, Yannick shares reflections from his journey across Cameroon, France, and Canada—revealing how cultural identity, once seen as a challenge, became his greatest strength.Through the lens of a powerful hummingbird legend, Yannick encourages newcomers to see their cultural roots as gifts, not burdens. He emphasizes that real belonging stems from staying authentic—even in the face of rejection.This segment is a moving reminder that embracing your accent, values, and background can transform cultural differences into deep...2025-04-1517 minMy Thick AccentBeyond The Highlight Reel: Gen Z, Identity & Curry Confessions | Ft. Hamza Islam Ep. 067Click here to text me your thoughts about the show!What’s it really like behind Gen Z’s curated online personas?In this episode, we sit down with Hamza Islam—host of Oh My Curry Goodness—a podcast dedicated to raw, unfiltered Gen Z stories. Born in the U.S. to Bangladeshi immigrant parents, Hamza brings a unique multicultural perspective to storytelling, blending South Asian identity with a deep curiosity about human connection.From battling social anxiety to embracing vulnerability, Hamza opens up about how podcasting helped him find his voice an...2025-04-101h 13
My Thick Accent"I Never Expected Canada to Change Me Like This!" | Beneath The Accent with Rohit DhawanClick here to text me your thoughts about the show!Rohit shares his journey of identity, humour, and self-discovery—from realizing he had an accent to finding a renewed sense of purpose in Canada. We touch on the unexpected lessons that come from cultural shifts, the spirit of service sparked abroad, and lighthearted reflections on lions, teleportation, and public transit etiquette. Through it all, Rohit speaks straight from the heart, reminding us of the power of embracing change while staying rooted.Follow the host and the podcast on Social Media...2025-04-0506 min
My Thick AccentFrom Grandparents' Wisdom to Dreaming Bigger | Beneath The Accent with Akshay MaharajClick here to text me your thoughts about the show!Join us as we dive into an inspiring journey of personal growth, resilience, and ambition in this episode of My Thick Accent. Our guest shares their experience from the simple joys of waking up with the sun to the art of crafting a flavourful pasta dish that reflects their passion for cooking. We explore cherished childhood memories with grandparents, the mental challenge of solving a Rubik's Cube, and the powerful life lesson from their brother: "You are no less than 100%." These stories highlight perseverance, self-belief, a...2025-03-2716 min
My Thick AccentFriendship, Food & Firsts: A Newcomer’s Journey | Beneath The Accent with Muzhda AkbariClick here to text me your thoughts about the show!What happens when a missing taxi and a faulty internet connection lead to unexpected kindness and delicious pizza? Hear how my first day in Montreal turned from chaos to charm, thanks to the generosity of strangers like Beer Inder and Harpreet. I reflect on the warm welcome I received and the surprising ways these encounters helped me find my footing in a new country. Together with my guest, we dive into cultural surprises in Canada, from the classroom revelations to the joy of celebrating diverse f...2025-03-2019 minMy Thick AccentThe Immigrant You Didn’t Expect | Ft. Yannick Oho Bambe Ep. 066Click here to text me your thoughts about the show!Yannick and Gurasis takes us on a captivating journey across continents as we explore what it truly means to carry multiple homes within oneself. From his childhood in Cameroon where he absorbed foundational values of respect and solidarity, to an unexpected twist in France where he was perceived as "the American boy," his story reveals how perception shapes the immigrant experience.Through vivid storytelling, Yannick shares how a seemingly minor misunderstanding—telling a classmate he had "just come from the US" rather than explaining his Ca...2025-03-161h 20My Thick AccentA New World Awaits: Balancing Heritage and New Beginnings | Ft. Rohan Dhawan Ep. 065Click here to text me your thoughts about the show!In this episode of My Thick Accent, we explore the inspiring immigrant journey of Rohit Dhawan, a global analytics leader and data entrepreneur who transitioned from India to Canada. Rohit shares the emotional and practical challenges of starting over, from navigating grocery stores to adjusting family traditions in a new country.Beyond survival, he emphasizes the power of emotional literacy, breaking cultural stigmas around vulnerability, and learning to express feelings for personal and professional growth. Rohit also dives into...2025-03-061h 22
My Thick AccentWhat I’d Tell My Younger Self About Immigration & Career | Beneath The Accent with Miguel AbascalClick here to text me your thoughts about the show!Reflecting on the past can unlock valuable insights, and in this episode, I sit down with Miguel to dive deep into the immigrant experience, personal growth, and career development. As I revisit my own immigration journey to Canada, I share key lessons on gratitude, adaptation, and the advice I’d give my younger self—like the importance of working part-time during college to build meaningful connections. Miguel offers powerful wisdom on mentorship, informational interviews, and embracing vulnerability as strengths for career success.Listeners will gain insi...2025-02-2013 min
My Thick AccentAccents and Acknowledgments: A Journey Across Continents | Beneath The Accent with Peta-GayeClick here to text me your thoughts about the show!Discover the power of cultural identity, resilience, and adaptation in this insightful episode of Beneath The Accent, featuring Peta-Gaye’s inspiring journey from Jamaica to Canada. We explore how food, language, and traditions shape our sense of belonging in a new country. From the comforting nostalgia of Ackee and Codfish to the surprising delight of Pierogies, Peta-Gaye shares how flavors connect her to home while embracing a new culture.We dive into the nuances of accents and how they influence perceptions—especially through the lens of P...2025-02-1524 minMy Thick AccentTurning Words Into a Movement: One Story At A Time | Beneath The Accent with Sindhu MahadevanClick here to text me your thoughts about the show!What happens when a simple comment on an accent becomes the catalyst for a podcast that captures the essence of the immigrant journey? Join us as we unravel this story and more in our latest episode of "My Thick Accent." Through candid conversations, we shed light on the trials and triumphs of international students and immigrants, exploring the crucial role of self-confidence and resilience. Discover what fuels our mission to give voice to diverse experiences and how an offhand remark led to a vibrant platform c...2025-02-1123 min
My Thick AccentCuriosity and Community on the Immigrant Path | Beneath The Accent with Dilyana MilevaClick here to text me your thoughts about the show!Embark on a heartfelt journey of resilience, adaptation, and self-discovery as I share my personal experience of moving to Canada as an international student in 2018. From studying media strategies and advertising to facing job search struggles during the pandemic, my path was filled with challenges. But through it all, I found strength in community, networking on LinkedIn, and overcoming imposter syndrome.In this episode, I sit down with Dilyana to discuss the immigrant experience in Canada, from cultural shocks and language barriers to embracing new...2025-02-0713 minMy Thick AccentCareer Advice, Cultural Heritage, and Mindset Shifts | Ft. Daljit Kaur Ep. 064Click here to text me your thoughts about the show!Daljit Kaur, a remarkable career coach, shares her inspiring journey from a small village near Phagwara to thriving in Canada, bringing a wealth of experience and wisdom to our discussion. As she recounts her transition from rural life to the bustling city of Montreal, Daljit opens up about overcoming cultural shocks, homesickness, and the challenges of adapting to a new environment. Her story is not just one of personal triumph but also a testament to the power of resilience, community support, and the transformative impact of motivational...2025-01-241h 26My Thick AccentBlending Tradition and Ambition: The Immigrant Blueprint | Ft. Dhara Majmundar Ep. 063Click here to text me your thoughts about the show!How do you balance personal ambition against the backdrop of familial ties and cultural roots? Join us as Dhara Majmundar, a trailblazer in talent acquisition, takes us on her inspiring journey from the vibrant arts scene in India to a successful career in recruitment in Canada. Dhara's story is one of determination and adaptability, marked by her reflections on health-conscious living, the motivational power of "Chakde India," and a nostalgic connection to her Gujarati heritage.In this episode, Dhara navigates the emotional landscapes of immigrant...2025-01-171h 10My Thick AccentFrom Heritage to Hustle: Embracing Roots and Rising High | Ft. Akshay Maharaj Ep.062Click here to text me your thoughts about the show!Imagine pursuing your true aspirations despite societal and familial pressures. That's the kind of determination and courage that led Akshay Maharaj, Canada's top youth entrepreneur of 2023, to create AVIEW, a revolutionary multimedia translation company. Inspired by the mental strength of top athletes, Akshay shares how small, consistent actions can lead to significant personal and professional growth. He also offers a glimpse into his love for cooking and the song that fuels his drive, weaving in stories about his cultural heritage and the importance of embracing his mother...2025-01-101h 23My Thick Accent5 Lessons from the Rollercoaster Year of 2024: Grateful for the Ingredients | Gurasis SinghClick here to text me your thoughts about the show!Reflecting on a year that was as challenging as it was rewarding, I share my transformative journey through 2024, a year marked by personal milestones and professional triumphs. Imagine rejuvenating family time in India, achieving podcast milestones, and breaking new ground with my first live radio interview and Canadian TV debut. This year was a testament to resilience and growth, and I learned the true power of celebrating the journey, not just the destination. December brought an unexpected illness that reminded me of health's foundational role in our...2024-12-3108 minMy Thick AccentFrom Taliban's Grip to Empowering Afghan Voices: A Courageous Path to Change | Ft. Muzhda Akbari Ep. 061Click here to text me your thoughts about the show!Muzhda Akbari's journey from Afghanistan to Canada is a powerful testament to resilience and courage, as she defies societal norms and challenges imposed by the Taliban's resurgence. Her creation of Code Green Afghanistan marks a pivotal moment where digital innovation becomes a beacon of hope, empowering Afghan voices worldwide. From her love of chai and Persian music to the cultural landscape of her homeland, Muzhda's story is woven with rich cultural insights that offer a vivid portrayal of Afghan life and traditions.As a teenage...2024-12-261h 26My Thick AccentFrom CEO in Mexico to Champion for Newcomers: A Bold Reinvention in Canada | Ft. Miguel Abascal Ep. 060Click here to text me your thoughts about the show!What happens when a successful CEO from Mexico starts fresh in a new country? Meet Miguel Abascal, whose inspiring journey of resilience and reinvention offers valuable lessons for immigrants and professionals alike. In this episode of My Thick Accent, Miguel shares how he overcame cultural barriers, rebuilt his confidence, and achieved his Canadian dream.From his rise to CEO at a young age to finding new purpose in Canada, Miguel's story is one of mentorship, personal growth, and the power of community. He dives into...2024-12-201h 37My Thick AccentFrom Curly Hair to Kindness: A Heartwarming Journey | Ft. Peta-Gaye Nash Ep. 59 (Part-2)Click here to text me your thoughts about the show!Discover the heartwarming story of Bushy Head, a children’s book born from a mother’s love for her daughter’s curly hair. This inspiring tale promotes self-acceptance, challenges traditional beauty standards, and celebrates individuality. In this episode, author Peta-Gaye shares her personal journey and the touching story of her daughter and niece donating their hair to help children in need. Dive into the cultural richness of Told Ya! Stories, inspired by Peta-Gaye's father's experiences as a Jamaican immigrant in Canada, offering powerful narratives that break stereotypes and em...2024-12-0537 minMy Thick AccentFrom Bullying to Empowerment: An Inspiring Tale | Ft. Peta-Gaye Nash Ep. 059Click here to text me your thoughts about the show!Peta-Gaye's remarkable journey began in Kingston, Jamaica, and led her to Canada, where she became a celebrated author and a powerful advocate for newcomers. In this compelling episode, Peta-Gaye shares her personal story of migrating at a young age due to political unrest. She opens up about overcoming racial bullying, identity struggles, and cultural shocks, offering invaluable insights into the immigrant experience.As an advocate and passionate author, Peta-Gaye has written a collection of children's books that earned her the prestigious Marty Award for Emerging...2024-11-281h 03My Thick Accent"In making a living, don't forget to make a life." | Ft. Sindhu Mahadevan Ep. 058Click here to text me your thoughts about the show!Ever wondered why the journey of immigration feels like a constant tightrope walk between anxiety and acceptance? Sindhu Mahadevan joins us to share her transformative voyage from India to Canada, offering a deeply personal story that resonates with anyone who has ever felt like a stranger in a new land. Through her reflections, we unpack the emotional rollercoaster ride of adapting to a new country, the misconceptions about Indian culture she encountered, and the profound impact of a simple yet powerful quote, "In making a living, don't...2024-11-211h 26My Thick AccentFrom Bulgaria to Canada: A Journey of Immigration, Wellness, and Self-Belief | Ft. Dilyana Mileva Ep. 057Click here to text me your thoughts about the show!Have you ever wondered what it takes to navigate life as an immigrant while reinventing your career in a new country? Join us for a riveting conversation with Dilyana, an international speaker renowned for her expertise in sleep, menopause, and holistic wellness. From her early years in Bulgaria to embracing the cultural tapestry of Canada, Dilyana shares her unique experiences, highlighting both the struggles and triumphs she faced. Her story is one of resilience and transformation, offering inspiration to anyone dealing with the complexities of immigration...2024-11-141h 04