Being Meraklis

In this episode of the Meraklis Beings podcast, host Shwetha Sivaraman is joined by Aruna Gopakumar, founder of the School of You, psychotherapist, and co-author of And How Do You Feel About That?. They explore the powerful concept of life scripts—unconscious childhood narratives that shape adult behavior—and how understanding them can transform our relationships, leadership, and inner lives. Aruna shares deep insights into psychotherapeutic practices, reparenting, and emotional wellbeing in a heartfelt, enlightening conversation.

Timestamps:

01:00 – Introduction to Aruna and her work

02:24 – What shaped Aruna’s transformation journey?

05:21 – What are life scripts?

08:50 – Why they matter for leaders and professionals

12:55 – Can life scripts be positive too?

14:24 – How childhood shapes adult trust and emotion

15:29 – What are injunctions and how do they affect us?

17:25 – Is it possible to change our scripts?

21:25 – How early roles affect closeness and independence

24:18 – Reparenting: Reconnecting with the inner child

28:07 – Why unconscious dynamics impact success

33:08 – Getting stuck in our script loops

36:06 – Rapid fire: Books, shows, and inspiration

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Meraklis Beings podcast, host Shwetha Sivaraman is joined by Nidhi Mariam Jacob (NMJ), an independent artist whose works are deeply inspired by nature and spirituality. Together, they explore Nidhi’s transformative journey through personal challenges, rediscovering purpose, and building a meaningful career in the arts. This heartfelt conversation touches on financial independence, artistic perseverance, mental wellness, and staying true to your creative voice.

00:01 - Teaser

01:07 - Introduction to Nidhi and her work

02:15 - Childhood and early inspiration

05:26 - Key life turning points

07:15 - Coping with separation

10:26 - Starting from scratch

13:00 - Staying true to her dream

16:19 - Early artistic hurdles

20:08 - Motivation during tough times

23:03 - The "Breathing Canvas" project

28:51 - Financial advice for women

31:34 - Avoiding burnout

34:31 - Advice for beginners

36:37 - Importance of consistency

40:02 - Influential books & podcasts

42:13 - Her non-negotiable value

44:18 - Mental wellness practices

47:06 - Message to her younger self

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

March 2025 marks 6 years of a rollercoaster ride being an entrepreneur for me and I wanted to record an episode where I share my journey and lessons so far. That’s what this episode is, but with a little twist. Instead of me sharing my reflections, we asked you listeners to poll in your questions and in this episode I answer the top questions I’ve received on this topic.  

Do you like the Q&A format? Let us know on IG/Whatsapp.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Meraklis Beings podcast, host Shwetha Sivaraman is joined by Ajay Ushakant, a life coach and teacher, to delve into the profound role of money in our lives. Ajay draws wisdom from the scriptures and modern-day experiences to explore how money impacts our sense of security, purpose, and legacy. From understanding wealth beyond monetary terms to practical ways of giving back to society, this conversation offers timeless insights for mindful living and financial clarity.

What we explore:

00:00 - Introduction: Wealth beyond money

00:57 - Introducing Ajay Ushakant and today’s topic

02:31 - The scriptures on money: Artha, Karma, Dharma

05:00 - Modern perspectives on wealth and instant gratification

07:06 - The fluid nature of security and personal priorities

10:02 - Reflections on money as a tool, not self-worth

13:09 - Introspection: What is enough?

16:10 - Story: A lesson in the value of wealth and humility

19:57 - The subtle impact of money on relationships and self-esteem

22:04 - Avoid substituting responsibilities with money

25:30 - The three pillars: Self-introspection, learning, and evolving

28:26 - Money’s role in fulfilling Dharma and supporting progeny

32:42 - Giving back: The Panchamahayajnas (Five Great Sacrifices)

34:17 - Deva Yajna: Acknowledging a higher force

37:01 - Rishi Yajna: Honoring the teaching tradition

40:30 - Pitru Yajna: Gratitude towards ancestors and caring for elders

46:10 - Manushya Yajna: Contributing to society

50:01 - Bhuta Yajna: Environmental responsibility

53:07 - Completing the circle of earning, sharing, and contributing

56:20 - Final reflections: Using money with mindfulness

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Meraklis Beings podcast, host Shwetha Sivaraman is joined by Lakshmi Ambady, a corporate professional turned artist and founder of Layasthana. They explore Lakshmi’s journey from engineering to art, weaving in elements of mindfulness, spirituality, and creative responsibility. Tune in to hear how art can transcend personal challenges and become a tool for meaningful self-expression.

Timestamps:

00:01 - Introduction to the Meraklis Beings podcast

01:27 - Welcoming Lakshmi Ambady

03:06 - What inspired Lakshmi’s creative transformation?

05:35 - Navigating cultural shifts and self-doubt

08:13 - How has yoga shaped your artistic journey?

11:19 - Choosing the name “Layasthana” and its significance

14:15 - Breaking societal norms to pursue art

16:42 - What role does sadhana play in creativity?

20:04 - Challenges and joys of the creative process

23:12 - The responsibility of artists: Creating with intention

26:40 - How do you fuel your creativity daily?

30:08 - Exploring energy and authenticity in art

33:45 - What advice would you give to disengaged professionals?

40:12 - Closing reflections on creativity and purpose

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today's speaker is Ajay Ushakanth. Ajay is a consultant with substantial experience in the retail industry as a businessman and contracted consultant. He is passionate about teaching and mentoring with a focus on life and professional skills, and the Hindu Vedas.

In a world moving at bullet-train speed, many of us feel stuck in a spiral—overwhelmed, disconnected, and unsure of what truly matters. This isn’t just another podcast; it’s your invitation to pause, reflect, and transform.

In this exclusive episode, we dive deep into:

🔄 The SPIRAL Framework: A proven path to clarity and purpose.

💭 Chronological vs. Psychological Time: Understand the gap between reality and perception.

🕊️ Ancient Wisdom Reimagined: Yagna, Dana, and Tapas as timeless tools for modern living.

Join us to learn how to pause, reflect, and reconnect with a fulfilling life.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Meraklis Beings Series, I sit down with Ashdin Doctor, a celebrated habit coach, author, and speaker, to discuss the power of small actions, evolving identities, and cultivating meaningful habits. Ashdin shares insights from his books, personal journey, and techniques for thriving consciously in a fast-paced world. Whether it's building focus, reflecting on success, or transitioning through life’s challenges, this conversation is packed with wisdom and actionable advice. Tune in for a deep dive into intentional living and growth.

00:00 - Introduction: The mission to evolve

00:19 - Identity and life’s trajectory

00:54 - Habits: Building and maintaining

01:12 - Miraculous Beings Series introduction

02:02 - Guest introduction: Ashdin Doctor

02:45 - Evolution and staying intentional

05:04 - Overcoming challenges through learning

08:03 - Identity shifts and priming environments

10:26 - Physical and mental habits

13:39 - Year-end reflections and intentions

15:01 - Vision boards vs. action boards

18:03 - Small actions, big results

21:10 - Replacing habits vs. stopping habits

24:05 - Measuring progress in mental habits

26:36 - Conscious awareness of inherited habits

33:51 - Ashdin’s upcoming habits and spiritual growth

37:00 - Letting go with grace

42:17 - Enhancing creativity and the power of questions

48:00 - Rapid-fire questions and reflections

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I often tell my clients it's not that bad is the worst thing that can happen in our careers and relationships. In this episodes I share a few reasons why and how we can live instead.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join us as we dive into an insightful conversation with Anushka Sani, Founder & Creative Director at Thought Over Design. Recently appointed as the Chief Creative Advisor at The Whole Truth Foods. She has led brand strategy and design for over 100 D2C/B2C businesses including Nykaa, Godrej Interio, and Ugaoo.

Podcast Highlights:

-Disconnect to Reconnect: What prompted Anushka to take a break and what she gained from it.

-Pivotal Moments: Key moments in her entrepreneurial journey.

-Support Systems: Tools, support systems, and practices that sustained her 10+ year journey.

-Managing Anxiety: Balancing confidence and anxiety as an entrepreneur.

-Overcoming Self-Doubt: Anushka's toolkit for handling self-doubt and imposter syndrome.

-Balancing Creativity and Business: How she manages both aspects in her work.

-Scaling Up vs. Slowing Down: Navigating the balance between growth and sustainability.

-Creative Fuel: Non-negotiable routines that keep her creativity flowing.

Anushka Sani, Founder & Creative Director at Thought Over Design, specializes in Brand Strategy & Design for consumer brands. Recently appointed as the Chief Creative Advisor at The Whole Truth Foods, Anushka has led brand strategy and design for over 100 D2C/B2C businesses including Nykaa, Godrej Interio, and Ugaoo.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.