Are We Well?

In the Season 2 launch of Are We Well, Neelam dives into deeply personal conversations about healing and identity. This season brings even more powerful and insightful stories, exploring experiences that often go unnamed. Topics include living with ADHD, navigating perimenopause, coping with grief, engaging in inner child work, addressing money wounds, and unpacking the societal pressures faced by Black and Brown communities. Neelam also reflects on the importance of supporting our children’s journeys of self-discovery while continuing to heal our own identities. 

In this episode of Are We Well?, host Neelam Chand engages in a heartfelt conversation with Morgan Williams Brown, who shares her personal journey through grief. The discussion highlights the profound impact of loss, particularly following the passing of her brother, Cameron. As the founder and CEO of Blended Studios and former CEO of EverWoke, Morgan reflects on how their experiences have shaped their professional life and purpose. The episode emphasizes the importance of navigating grief and its relevance in the lives of many who have faced similar challenges. Tune in for this powerful and relevant conversation that speaks to anyone who has experienced grief.

"And then there's the day after where you realize life happens forward and you are still there. And what do you do? Who do you become?"

Notes:

[00:02:20] Twin bond and unique relationship.

[00:06:06] Grief journey and processing loss.

[00:12:27] Pressure of handling loss.

[00:20:14] Transformation through love and fear.

[00:29:39] Emotional boundaries in grief.

[00:35:44] Dreaming big after loss.

[00:45:04] Leap of faith to evolve.

[00:50:40] Living forward after loss.

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• Cameron Williams' Life

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In this episode of Are We Well?, host Neelam Chand welcomes Poonam Kumar for an insightful discussion on breaking generational traumas and patterns inherited from family and ancestors. As South Asian women, they explore the complexities of their unique backgrounds, including the differences in their maternal influences. Poonam shares her impressive career journey as the Principal Advisor of Communications and Branding for the Americas at Rio Tinto, along with her previous roles in public service and media. Together, they dive deep into the significance of addressing and healing from inherited traumas, setting the stage for a powerful conversation on personal growth and wellness. Join Neelam and Poonam as they celebrate sisterhood and the journey toward healing.

"Perfection and people pleasing and going above and beyond overachieving is the way to have a voice and be recognized, otherwise you fall."

Notes:

[00:02:05] Adoption and family dynamics.

[00:05:30] Gender roles in South Asian culture.

[00:09:49] People-pleasing and self-respect.

[00:12:15] Setting boundaries and guilt.

[00:16:35] Family dynamics and expectations.

[00:20:46] Male patriarchy and cultural expectations.

[00:23:06] Toxic patterns and self-worth.

[00:28:33] OCD and family dynamics.

[00:31:01] Family care dynamics and responsibilities.

[00:34:05] What is Indian identity?

[00:37:19] Breaking generational trauma patterns.

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In this episode of Are We Well, host Neelam Chand is joined by Areesh Ahmed, co-founder of Oak River Group, to explore the themes of self-doubt, self-sabotage, and the inner critic through a spiritual lens. With nearly two decades of friendship, Neelam and Areesh delve into how these challenges have impacted Areesh's journey as an entrepreneur and his personal life. Areesh shares his experiences working with major retail brands like Nike, Amazon, and Macy's, while also opening up about his recent spiritual growth and vulnerability. Tune in for an insightful conversation that combines entrepreneurship with the quest for inner well-being.

"At some point you have to kind of realize that that inner critic isn't the real you."

Notes:

[00:02:44] Inner critic and self-doubt.

[00:07:00] Setbacks and personal trauma.

[00:09:25] Self-love journey during COVID.

[00:12:43] Cultural expectations and personal identity.

[00:16:46] The inner critic and spirituality.

[00:21:04] Merging spirituality and religion.

[00:27:05] Experiencing higher power through spirituality.

[00:30:48] Spiritual journey in nature.

[00:34:12] Consumerism vs. Nature Experience.

[00:37:16] Vulnerability in entrepreneurship and spirituality.

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In this episode of the Are We Well podcast, host Neelam Chand welcomes back Kilo Zamora for a heartfelt conversation about wellness in the aftermath of the recent election. As emotions run high and the nation feels increasingly divided, Neelam and Kilo explore the chaos and uncertainty many are experiencing. Kilo emphasizes the importance of introspection and understanding one's feelings during tumultuous times, encouraging listeners to navigate their emotional landscapes with honesty and depth. Join them as they unpack the complexities of post-election wellness and share insights on finding peace amidst the noise.

 "When there is systemic violence that is a method in which to create change, I think that collective trauma will be an ongoing need for processing."

Notes:

[00:01:09] Post-election emotional processing.

[00:10:06] Systemic violence and collective trauma.

[00:11:22] Thriving amidst political differences.

[00:19:34] Love and acceptance in families.

[00:25:30] Domination through resistance.

[00:26:31] Activism and inner criticism.

[00:34:11] Inner critics and community dynamics.

[00:39:36] Global context of allyship.

[00:44:16] Interconnectedness of social justice issues.

[00:50:05] Hope during collective grieving.

[00:52:15] Community and individual needs.

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In this episode of "Are We Well?", host Neelam Chand welcomes David Brooks for a deep and insightful conversation about healing and creativity. Neelam and David explore the concept of detaching from societal norms—the "matrix"—to tap into true creativity and purpose. David shares his personal spiritual journey, emphasizing how his experiences shaped his desire to create a more just world through artistic expression. With a background as a college football athlete and aerospace design engineer, David's unique perspective on creativity and healing offers listeners valuable insights into breaking free from conventional systems. Join them as they discuss the importance of vulnerability, connection, and the transformative power of creativity in our lives.

"We are, in essence, an extension of the universe. And the universe is constantly creating new things."

Notes:

[00:03:20] Innovative childhood influences.

[00:05:37] Creativity and curiosity in life.

[00:08:36] Seven chakras and their activation.

[00:12:14] Freestyle rap and creativity.

[00:17:12] Purpose in helping others.

[00:22:34] Resource management for humanity.

[00:27:02] Global opt-in alternative government.

[00:30:24] Unplugging from consumerism.

[00:32:02] Alternative systems for impact.

[00:39:23] Wellness and creativity activation.

[00:40:46] Personalized health and wellness.

[00:44:06] First episode excitement.

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In this episode of Are We Well?, host Neelam Chand sits down with her dear friend and expert in yogic movement, Princesse DesRose. Together, they explore the profound connection between healing trauma and the body through the practices of yoga and intentional movement. Princesse, an internationally trained yoga therapist and founder of Lumiere Wellness, shares her insights on whole body wellness and the importance of rest in the healing process. Listeners will learn how intentional movement can facilitate emotional release and promote a sense of well-being. Join Neelam and Princesse as they delve into personal experiences, the impact of yoga on their journeys, and the mantra that how we live on the mat reflects how we live off the mat. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that encourages everyone to breathe, feel, and embrace healing through movement.

"Our bodies hold trauma, and when we understand that, we also understand that we can move through it."

Notes:

[00:04:32] Healing trauma through yoga.

[00:10:51] Body holds trauma and grief.

[00:12:54] The importance of resting.

[00:18:02] Health and wellness access issues.

[00:22:14] Ancestral trauma and healing.

[00:27:44] Minimizing trauma for future generations.

[00:28:57] Healing through relationships and parenting.

[00:34:35] Being a better student.

[00:39:37] Community healing after trauma.

[00:41:40] Self-care and community support.

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In this episode of Are We Well?, host Neelam Chand engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Shawn Newell, a community integrator and former vice president of a major industrial supply company. They explore the themes of fear and ego in the context of creating social change. Neelam highlights Shawn's extensive background, including his service on multiple boards across Utah and nationally, and his commitment to community engagement. Together, they discuss the obstacles egos can present in the pursuit of true change and the importance of collaboration and accountability in fostering healing within communities. Tune in to discover insights on how to navigate the complexities of social transformation while maintaining a focus on well-being.

"If you have delved into the real issues and gained an understanding of where people are and communities are, then that accountability will weigh heavy on you."

Notes:

[00:03:31] Fear in community conversations.

[00:05:59] Fear in difficult conversations.

[00:09:08] Courage and resiliency in leadership.

[00:12:51] Engaging politicians in conversation.

[00:18:57] The importance of engagement.

[00:20:41] Self-care in community service.

[00:24:45] School desegregation experiences.

[00:31:17] Courage and resiliency in speaking.

[00:34:12] Fragmentation in social justice work.

[00:39:37] Courageous political engagement for change.

[00:42:20] Miseducation of America.

[00:45:32] Daily wellness practices for balance.

[00:48:35] Self-care and leadership practice.

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In this introductory episode Are We Well?, host Neelam Chand is interviewed by producer Christine Baird, revealing the origins and inspiration behind the show. Neelam, a Desi American and mother based in Salt Lake City, shares her extensive background as a diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) practitioner. With over a decade of experience advocating for social justice, she launched her consulting business, Shift SLC, in 2020. The conversation explores Neelam's journey towards self-discovery and her quest to understand the deeper meanings of belonging and wellness. Tune in to learn more about Neelam's insights and the vision for the podcast as it embarks on a journey of healing and exploration.

"The closer you are to accessing your soul is the closer you are to being your true self and you're able to see others for that as well."

Notes:

[00:03:03] Unprocessed trauma and identity.

[00:05:30] Belonging and personal identity.

[00:09:16] Worthiness and belonging struggles.

[00:13:22] Inner child healing journey.

[00:20:07] Community and collective healing.

[00:22:34] Power of self-healing.

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In this episode of Are We Well?, host Neelam Chand sits down with intuitive healer and spiritual guide Giulia Tizzano. They explore the deep connections between belief systems and true self-alignment, discussing how patterns can hinder personal growth. Giulia shares her extensive background in holistic healing, which includes over 500 hours of yoga therapy, Reiki mastery, and shamanic practices learned from masters around the world. With a focus on treating the whole person- body, mind, and spirit, Giulia highlights her work in addressing childhood trauma, addictions, and subconscious reprogramming. Join them as they delve into the transformative journey towards true wellness and healing.

"The most beautiful thing that I could do for others is teach them how to make choices for themselves, just based on what they believe in, what they really are, who they really are, instead of doing it because somebody else told them."

Notes:

[00:03:09] Lack of self-worth in women.

[00:05:41-00:05:51] The wounded feminine in cultures.

[00:10:01] Core of our true selves.

[00:12:51] Masculine and feminine balance.

[00:17:12] Balance of masculine and feminine.

[00:21:21] Neural pathways and personal change.

[00:27:05] Choices and change indicators.

[00:30:56] Awareness and personal growth.

[00:33:34] Reset program for personal growth.

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