How can storytelling become an act of resistance?

Sonora Jha is a professor of journalism at Seattle University and an acclaimed author whose work boldly explores themes of gender, race, and resistance. From her early life in India navigating both privilege and adversity, to her groundbreaking career in journalism and her shift into academia and literary fiction, Sonora shares how her lived experiences shape her writing and worldview.

In this conversation, she discusses the creative process behind her best-selling novel The Laughter, the role of satire in exploring multiple (and sometimes opposing) perspectives, and the impact of authenticity in storytelling. Literary critic Rafael Frumkin joins us to unpack the book’s unique approach to the campus novel genre and sharp critique of complicity and power in academia.

In this episode, Sonora shares her perspectives on:

• (02:22) Growing up in India
• (05:08) Her career in journalism
• (10:18) Transitioning to academia and the U.S.
• (15:40) The Laughter and writing from the perspective of a white man
• (18:14) Expert discussion with critic Rafael Frumkin on the impact of Sonora’s work
• (23:00) Pushback on The Laughter
• (28:03) Advice to young writers

Desi Roots and Routes: Pathways to Success of Indians in America is brought to you by the Roundglass India Center at Seattle University. Join our host, Sital Kalantry, Professor of Law and Director of the Roundglass India Center as she delves into the incredible stories of Indian Americans exploring their roots in India and the routes they took to become inspiring leaders in America. 

Subscribe to Desi Roots and Routes on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you tune in. 

Stay up to date on our latest episodes and insights by visiting our website and following us on LinkedIn and YouTube!

And if you want more information on the Roundglass India Center, subscribe to our newsletter here or email us at [email protected] and let us know what stories you’d love to hear next. Thanks for tuning in and remember to keep building bridges and creating connections. 

Additional Resources:

• Sonora Jha
• Intemperance (forthcoming)
• The Laughter
• Rafael Frumkin
• Frumpkin's New York Times Book Review of The Laughter

What does it mean to lead with both purpose and identity in today’s political landscape?

Shasti Conrad, the first woman of color to chair the Washington State Democratic Party, shares her powerful story of identity, activism, and political leadership. Adopted from India and raised in a small, predominantly white town in Oregon, Shasti's journey defies expectations. Her path took her from a transformative education at Seattle University to a seat in the Obama White House and into the top ranks of political organizing. Shasti opens up about the importance of inclusivity, representation, and finding your place in spaces that weren’t built for you.

In this episode, Shasti shares her invaluable insights on:

• (02:03) Growing up as a transracial adoptee in rural Oregon
• (09:40) Discovering purpose at Seattle University
• (14:11) Getting her start in national politics
• (20:05) Working in the Obama White House
• (27:05) Expert segment with Angela Tucker on transracial adoption
• (31:49) Becoming chair of the WA State Democrats
• (34:20) Advice for future leaders

Desi Roots and Routes: Pathways to Success of Indians in America is brought to you by the Roundglass India Center at Seattle University. Our host, Sital Kalantry, Professor of Law and Director of the Roundglass India Center, delves into the incredible stories of Indian Americans. Exploring their roots in India and the routes they took to become inspiring leaders in America. 

Subscribe to Desi Roots and Routes on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you tune in. 

Stay up to date on our latest episodes and insights by visiting our website and following us on LinkedIn and YouTube!

And if you want more information on the Roundglass India Center, subscribe to our newsletter here or email us at [email protected] and let us know what stories you’d love to hear next. Thanks for tuning in and remember to keep building bridges and creating connections. 

Additional Resources:

• Washington State Democrats
• Angela Tucker

What does it take to create a space where the arts can transcend barriers and bring people together?

Krishna Thiagarajan, CEO of the Seattle Symphony, shares his incredible journey from performer to leader in one of the most prestigious arts organizations in the United States. Born to an Indian father and German-American mother, Krishna’s multicultural upbringing shaped his passion for music and his vision for the arts. His career has evolved from performing as a professional musician to becoming a dynamic leader, dedicated to fostering connection and innovation in the world of classical music.

In this episode, Krishna shares his invaluable insights on; 

• (01:34) How his multicultural background shaped his identity
• (09:12) How experience informs his approach to arts administration
• (12:21) Push back when challenging the status quo
• (16:58) Krishna’s inclusive vision for classical music
• (19:33) Segment with Professor Stephen Slawek on cross pollination in classical music
• (22:59) How to balance tradition and innovation 
• (26:09) Krishna’s community 
• (30:21) Advice for young professionals

Desi Roots and Routes: Pathways to Success of Indians in America is brought to you by the Roundglass India Center at Seattle University. Join our host, Sital Kalantry, Professor of Law and Director of the Roundglass India Center as she delves into the incredible stories of Indian Americans exploring their roots in India and the routes they took to become inspiring leaders in America. 

Subscribe to Desi Roots and Routes on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you tune in. And stay up to date on our latest episodes and insights by visiting our website and following us on LinkedIn and YouTube!

And if you want more information on the Roundglass India Center, subscribe to our newsletter here! Thanks for tuning in and remember to keep building bridges and creating connections. 

Additional Resources: 

• Seattle Symphony
• Benaroya Hall
• Professor Stephen Slawek

How does a commitment to social good inspire a global leader to dedicate their life to solving complex public health challenges?

Ankur Vora is a distinguished leader in global health, guiding impactful initiatives as Chief Strategy Officer at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. From his early days at BITS in India to working with global nonprofits, Ankur’s path reflects a commitment to applying his talents toward improving public health and equity worldwide. Inspired by his parents' values of service and purpose, Ankur transitioned from a successful career in the corporate world to one where he could leverage his skills for lasting societal change.

In this episode, Ankur shares his invaluable insights on; 

• (01:19) Immigrating to the U.S.
• (05:40) The journey from corporate success to philanthropic impact
• (08:07) The work of the Gates Foundation to address systemic issues
• (15:11) The importance of community and celebrating your cultural identity
• (19:55) Advice for aspiring leaders aiming to create change in global health

Desi Roots and Routes: Pathways to Success of Indians in America is brought to you by the Roundglass India Center at Seattle University. Join our host, Sital Kalantry, Professor of Law and Director of the Roundglass India Center as she delves into the incredible stories of Indian Americans exploring their roots in India and the routes they took to become inspiring leaders in America. 

Subscribe to Desi Roots and Routes on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you tune in. And stay up to date on our latest episodes and insights by visiting our website and following us on LinkedIn and YouTube!

And if you want more information on the Roundglass India Center, subscribe to our newsletter here! Thanks for tuning in and remember to keep building bridges and creating connections. 

Additional Resources: 

• Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation 
• India’s Public Distribution System (PDS)

What unique perspectives do immigrant leaders bring to building a more inclusive political landscape?

Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal is a trailblazing leader in American politics, known for her dedication to immigrant rights and progressive change. From her beginnings in India to her impactful role in Congress, Pramila’s journey is one of resilience, purpose, and a deep commitment to justice. This episode explores her pathway from community organizer to U.S. Congress, illuminating her influential role in building coalitions and inspiring a new generation of leaders.

In this episode, Pramila shares her invaluable insights on; 

• (01:10) Immigrating to the U.S.
• (08:08) Founding OneAmerica
• (11:32) Why Congress
• (13:43) Importance of Representation in Politics
• (16:05) Segment | AAPI Data Founder and Director Karthick Ramakrishnan discusses the Indian American influence on U.S. political parties.
• (20:22) Immigration Reform 
• (22:45) Segment | Cornell University Law Professor Stephen W. Yale-Loehr discusses Immigration reform and its challenges.
• (30:25) Advice for those who want a career in advocating for equity and justice. 

Desi Roots and Routes: Pathways to Success of Indians in America is brought to you by the Roundglass India Center at Seattle University. Join our host, Sital Kalantry, Professor of Law and Director of the Roundglass India Center as she delves into the incredible stories of Indian Americans exploring their roots in India and the routes they took to become inspiring leaders in America. 

Subscribe to Desi Roots and Routes on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you tune in. And stay up to date on our latest episodes and insights by visiting our website and following us on LinkedIn and YouTube!

And if you want more information on the Roundglass India Center, subscribe to our newsletter here! Thanks for tuning in and remember to keep building bridges and creating connections. 

Additional Resources: 

• Voter Registration and Information
• OneAmerica
• Roundglass India Center - Indian Americans and Politics with Karthick Ramakrishnan
• The Indian Express article: The long history of immigration in the U.S.
• Cornell White Paper: Immigration Reform: A Path Forward
• AAPI Data

What does it take for an immigrant woman to become a powerful voice for authenticity and mentorship in the U.S. legal system?

Pallavi Mehta Wahi is the Managing Partner at K&L Gates’ Seattle Office, representing one of the largest law firms in the United States. Her journey from India to becoming a leader in the legal field is marked by a deep commitment to mentoring, fostering inclusivity, and building authentic communities. Pallavi’s path highlights the importance of embracing identity while navigating challenges in the professional world.

In this episode, Pallavi shares her invaluable insights on:

• (01:26) Immigrating to Seattle
• (03:09) Finding Success at K&L Gates
• (08:37) Nalini Iyer’s Segment: Intersectionality in the Workplace
• (13:17) The importance of being authentic 
• (17:35) Recognizing your own power
• (19:22) Building communities from the ground up
• (24:05) Creating a better world for the next generation

Desi Roots and Routes: Pathways to Success of Indians in America is brought to you by the Roundglass India Center at Seattle University. Join our host, Sital Kalantry, Professor of Law and Director of the Roundglass India Center as she delves into the incredible stories of Indian Americans exploring their roots in India and the routes they took to become inspiring leaders in America. 

Subscribe to Desi Roots and Routes on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you tune in. And stay up to date on our latest episodes and insights by visiting our website and following us on LinkedIn and YouTube!

And if you want more information on the Roundglass India Center, subscribe to our newsletter here! Thanks for tuning in and remember to keep building bridges and creating connections. 

Additional Resources: 

• K&L Gates
• Book - On Intersectionality: Essential Writings by Kimberlé Crenshaw
• South Asian Bar Association of Washington
• API Chaya 
• SU News: University Designated as Minority Serving Institution

How does a hate incident spark a storyteller’s successful film career and inspire a lifelong commitment to confronting difficult experiences and shining a light on them?

Rita Meher is a filmmaker, activist, and co-founder of Tasveer, the world’s only Oscar-qualifying South Asian film festival. Her path from a small village in India to becoming a leader in the arts community of Seattle is one of resilience and purpose. Inspired by the challenges she faced as an Adivasi and the post-9/11 climate in America, Rita has dedicated her career to creating space for marginalized voices and becoming a trailblazer within the film community for social change and justice.

In this episode, Rita shares her invaluable insights on:

• (1:45) Growing up as an Adivasi
• (4:40) Nalini Iyer’s historical segment: how caste discrimination persists in the Indian diaspora
• (11:30) The effect of post 9/11 hate incidents in America
• (17:05) The role of film festivals and film markets 
• (23:51) Growing to love Seattle
• (27:06) The importance of staying focused

Desi Roots and Routes: Pathways to Success of Indians in America is brought to you by the Roundglass India Center at Seattle University. Join our host, Sital Kalantry, Professor of Law and Director of the Roundglass India Center as she delves into the incredible stories of Indian Americans exploring their roots in India and the routes they took to become inspiring leaders in America. 

Subscribe to Desi Roots and Routes on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you tune in. And stay up to date on our latest episodes and insights by visiting our website and following us on LinkedIn and YouTube!

And if you want more information on the Roundglass India Center, subscribe to our newsletter here! Thanks for tuning in and remember to keep building bridges and creating connections. 

Additional Resources: 

• Tasveer Film Festival
• Tasveer Film Fund
• Tasveer Film Market
• Art Beat - Office of Arts & Culture
• Equality Labs
• Article: Suraj Yengde - Global Castes

What motivates a successful tech entrepreneur to shift focus towards giving back and creating lasting change in global health and education? 

Sunny Singh is a tech entrepreneur, philanthropist, wellbeing seeker and founder of the Roundglass Foundation. His journey to success in America is one of integrity and perseverance, guided by the lessons instilled from his parents back in India and touched by the recognition that we must give back in this life. He charts the unknown in search of passion and purpose.

In this episode, Sunny shares his invaluable insights on; 

• (01:38) Growing up in Delhi 
• (07:05) Immigrating to America without a plan
• (09:30) Nalini Iyer’s historical segment: the history of Indians immigrating to the Pacific Northwest
• (17:30) Why the corporate world isn’t for everybody 
• (20:17) How to build a unicorn tech company 
• (23:30) The power of proactive philanthropy 
• (27:23) And the importance of creating a legacy that outlives the individual

Desi Roots and Routes: Pathways to Success of Indians in America is brought to you by the Roundglass India Center at Seattle University. Join our host, Sital Kalantry, Professor of Law and Director of the Roundglass India Center as she delves into the incredible stories of Indian Americans exploring their roots in India and the routes they took to become inspiring leaders in America. 

Subscribe to Desi Roots and Routes on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you tune in. And stay up to date on our latest episodes and insights by visiting our website and following us on LinkedIn and YouTube!

And if you want more information on the Roundglass India Center, subscribe to our newsletter here! Thanks for tuning in and remember to keep building bridges and creating connections. 

Additional Resources: 

• Book: Nalini Iyer & Amy Bhatt - Roots & Reflections
• Book: Karen Leonard - Making Ethnic Choices 
• Book: Chitra Divakaruni - Leaving Yuba City 
• Book: Amy Bhatt - High Tech Housewives
• Roundglass India Center Website

Join us as we explore the determination, brilliance, and luck that have shaped the journeys of Indian-American leaders who have achieved remarkable success. Desi Roots & Routes brings you the inspiring stories of people with roots in India whose paths have led them to break barriers and create lasting legacies in America. Hosted by Sital Kalantry, this podcast offers a window into their world—where cultures intersect, and new opportunities are forged.

But this is just the beginning. What are the challenges their industries currently face, and how have they overcome them? How do these leaders balance their identities while giving back to the communities that shaped them? Tune in to Desi Roots & Routes and uncover the stories that connect us all.