Diasporaa

Diasporaa

By Aditya MehtaSociety & Culture
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Diasporaa episodes

  • Coast to Coast: Umang Chaudhary's Immigrant Adventure

    Coast to Coast: Umang Chaudhary's Immigrant Adventure | Diasporaa Podcast Episode 40


    In the season one finale of Diasporaa, host Aditya Mehta discusses the intricate journey of Umang Chaudhary, an immigrant from Haryana, India. Arriving in the US for higher education, Umang shares his experiences across various American cities, including Massachusetts, Austin, and Seattle, and his transition from student life to a professional career in tech. The episode delves into the challenges and cultural contrasts encountered as an immigrant and the inception of Umang Abroad, a platform aimed at supporting prospective and current immigrants by offering genuine insights into living and working in the US. The episode also touches on advanced visa strategies and contrasts the cultural atmospheres of the East Coast, West Coast, and Texas.


    List of Resources:

    3 Idiots: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/3_Idiots 

    Bhangra: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhangra_(dance) 

    Bigha: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bigha 

    Faridabad: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Faridabad 

    FIITJEE: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FIITJEE 

    Haryana: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Haryana 

    NCR: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Capital_Region_(India) 

    Vellore institute of technology: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vellore_Institute_of_Technology 

    Yamunagar: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yamunanagar 


    About the Podcast: 


    Diasporaa was Aditya's third startup based in Vancouver, BC. It focused on helping new immigrants in Canada find their feet, get off to a running start and ease their assimilation into Canadian life. A big part of the platform were conversations, community and support. Though the startup stopped growing once Aditya moved to Seattle, WA - it remained alive in the form of several discussion groups and online communities.


    Now, Diasporaa has been resurrected in the form of a podcast focused on uncovering and sharing interesting immigrant stories from the South Asian diaspora. It is available on YouTube, all major podcast platforms such as Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, etc. and is also broadcast as a radio show on Alternative Talk 1150 AM and 98.9 FM HD Channel 3 on Wednesdays from 2-3pm PST. 


    About Aditya Mehta:


    Aditya is a Bombay boy who has lived in Austin, Los Angeles, Washington DC, and Vancouver before making it to his current home in Seattle. He has degrees in marketing, urban planning, real estate and strategy but has spent his career in financial services, social media and now real estate - mostly as an entrepreneur and partly as an employee at Amazon.


    He balances Indian, Canadian and American culture, loves helping those who are new to North America and looks forward to the interesting stories that his interview guests bring each week. When not podcasting, he is helping his wife Prachi build her pharmaceutical business or hanging out with his son Arjun.


    Connect with Diasporaa:

    -Instagram: @diasporaapodcast

    -YouTube: https://linke.to/dspyoutube 

    -Bio Link: linke.to/diasporaa 

    -Listen on Spotify: https://linke.to/dspspotify

    -Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://linke.to/dspapple 

    -Diasporaa Podcast on KKNW Alternative Talk Radio: https://linke.to/kknw1150

    See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    55 min
  • Powering Change: Jay Shah’s Immigration Story

    Powering Change: Jay Shah’s Immigration Story | Diasporaa Podcast Episode 39


    Welcome to Diaspora, the show where we share the remarkable stories of immigrants from the Indian subcontinent. In this episode, host Aditya Mehta interviews Jay Shah, a director in the energy sector at National Grid with a focus on net zero and energy transition. Jay shares his journey from New Delhi to the US, including his educational stints at Yale and Columbia University. He discusses the cultural adjustments, the role of policy and regulations in energy systems, and his passion for sustainable practices and infrastructure. Jay also reflects on his personal experiences, from the nuances of cultural assimilation to his love for solo travel, especially his memorable trips to Bali and Hawaii. Don’t miss his insightful story about blending heritage and professional expertise. Tune in for a compelling conversation that explores identity, innovation, and global perspectives. Remember to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories from the South Asian Diaspora!


    List of Resources:


    Chitralekha: https://chitralekha.com/ 

    Devidayal Solar Solutions: https://ddsolar.in/en/ 

    High-context and Low-context culture: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/High-context_and_low-context_cultures 

    Komodo Dragon national park: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Komodo_National_Park 

    Mauna Kea Observatory: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mauna_Kea_Observatories 

    New Delhi: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_Delhi 

    Quit India movement: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quit_India_Movement 

    Sardar Patel Vidyalaya: https://spvdelhi.org/ 

    TERI: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Energy_and_Resources_Institute 

    Vibrant Gujarat: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vibrant_Gujarat 


    About the Podcast: 


    Diasporaa was Aditya's third startup based in Vancouver, BC. It focused on helping new immigrants in Canada find their feet, get off to a running start and ease their assimilation into Canadian life. A big part of the platform were conversations, community and support. Though the startup stopped growing once Aditya moved to Seattle, WA - it remained alive in the form of several discussion groups and online communities.


    Now, Diasporaa has been resurrected in the form of a podcast focused on uncovering and sharing interesting immigrant stories from the South Asian diaspora. It is available on YouTube, all major podcast platforms such as Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, etc. and is also broadcast as a radio show on Alternative Talk 1150 AM and 98.9 FM HD Channel 3 on Wednesdays from 2-3pm PST. 


    About Aditya Mehta:


    Aditya is a Bombay boy who has lived in Austin, Los Angeles, Washington DC, and Vancouver before making it to his current home in Seattle. He has degrees in marketing, urban planning, real estate and strategy but has spent his career in financial services, social media and now real estate - mostly as an entrepreneur and partly as an employee at Amazon.


    He balances Indian, Canadian and American culture, loves helping those who are new to North America and looks forward to the interesting stories that his interview guests bring each week. When not podcasting, he is helping his wife Prachi build her pharmaceutical business or hanging out with his son Arjun.


    Connect with Diasporaa:

    -Instagram: @diasporaapodcast

    -YouTube: https://linke.to/dspyoutube 

    -Bio Link: linke.to/diasporaa 

    -Listen on Spotify: https://linke.to/dspspotify

    -Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://linke.to/dspapple 

    -Diasporaa Podcast on KKNW Alternative Talk Radio: https://linke.to/kknw1150

    See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    55 min
  • From Finance to Fame: Lekshmi Sreedharan's Canadian Chronicles

    From Finance to Fame: Lekshmi Sreedharan's Canadian Chronicles | Diasporaa Podcast Episode 38


    In this episode of Diasporaa, host Aditya Mehta sits down with Lekshmi Sreedharan, a banking professional originally from Trivandrum, Kerala, who moved to Toronto, Canada in 2021. Lekshmi shares her experiences of adapting to a new culture, challenges she faced, and how she continued her career in the capital markets. She also discusses her journey in beauty pageants, including her titles of Miss India World Universal 2025 and Canada Business Elites Top 40 Under 40. Lekshmi offers insights into the multicultural environment of Toronto, the process of making new friends, and the differences in work culture between India and Canada. Additionally, she touches on her advocacy for child education and cancer awareness, and her future aspirations. The episode concludes with nostalgic memories from her childhood in Kerala, highlighting cultural sounds and smells that still resonate with her.


    List of Resources:


    Bangalore: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bengaluru 

    Miss World Universal: https://www.pageantplanet.com/event/miss-ms-world-universal-2025 

    Rita Gangwani: http://www.ritagangwani.com/ 

    Trivandrum: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thiruvananthapuram 


    About the Podcast: 


    Diasporaa was Aditya's third startup based in Vancouver, BC. It focused on helping new immigrants in Canada find their feet, get off to a running start and ease their assimilation into Canadian life. A big part of the platform were conversations, community and support. Though the startup stopped growing once Aditya moved to Seattle, WA - it remained alive in the form of several discussion groups and online communities.


    Now, Diasporaa has been resurrected in the form of a podcast focused on uncovering and sharing interesting immigrant stories from the South Asian diaspora. It is available on YouTube, all major podcast platforms such as Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, etc. and is also broadcast as a radio show on Alternative Talk 1150 AM and 98.9 FM HD Channel 3 on Wednesdays from 2-3pm PST. 


    About Aditya Mehta:


    Aditya is a Bombay boy who has lived in Austin, Los Angeles, Washington DC, and Vancouver before making it to his current home in Seattle. He has degrees in marketing, urban planning, real estate and strategy but has spent his career in financial services, social media and now real estate - mostly as an entrepreneur and partly as an employee at Amazon.


    He balances Indian, Canadian and American culture, loves helping those who are new to North America and looks forward to the interesting stories that his interview guests bring each week. When not podcasting, he is helping his wife Prachi build her pharmaceutical business or hanging out with his son Arjun.


    Connect with Diasporaa:

    -Instagram: @diasporaapodcast

    -YouTube: https://linke.to/dspyoutube 

    -Bio Link: linke.to/diasporaa 

    -Listen on Spotify: https://linke.to/dspspotify

    -Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://linke.to/dspapple 

    -Diasporaa Podcast on KKNW Alternative Talk Radio: https://linke.to/kknw1150

    See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    53 min
  • From Marble to Meta: Suchir Agarwal’s Successful Career Story

    From Marble to Meta: Suchir Agarwal’s Successful Career Story


    Welcome to Diasporaa, the show where we share the remarkable stories of immigrants from the Indian subcontinent. In this episode, host Aditya Mehta interviews Suchir Agarwal, who shares his journey from growing up in various cities in Rajasthan, pursuing his education at IIT Delhi and XLRI Jamshedpur, to leading an AI product team at Meta in the USA. Suchir compares Jaipur to Chicago, explains the various spellings of his surname 'Agarwal,' and discusses the diverse regions within Rajasthan. He reflects on the shift in India's sports culture and deep dives into the educational and career opportunities in India and abroad. The episode also highlights Suchir's views on AI's future and the evolving entrepreneurial landscape. Join us for an insightful conversation that spans across cultural heritage, educational milestones, and technological advancements. Remember to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories from the South Asian Diaspora! 


    List of Resources:

    Baniya community: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bania_(caste) 

    Chappan Dukan: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chappan_Dukan 

    Gaurav Gupta: https://www.youtube.com/@gauravgupta6685 

    Indian Institutes of Technology: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indian_Institutes_of_Technology 

    Jamshedji Tata: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jamsetji_Tata 

    Jamshedpur: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jamshedpur 

    Kota Factory TV Series: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kota_Factory 

    Maharaj Agrasen: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Agrasen 

    Rajasthan: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rajasthan 

    Sachin Tendulkar: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sachin_Tendulkar  

    Sanjay Manjrekar: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sanjay_Manjrekar 

    Shreenathji: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shrinathji_Temple 

    Trevor Noah: https://www.youtube.com/trevornoah 

    Udaipur: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Udaipur 

    UPSC: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Civil_Services_Examination 

    XLRI: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/XLRI_%E2%80%93_Xavier_School_of_Management 


    About the Podcast: 


    Diasporaa was Aditya's third startup based in Vancouver, BC. It focused on helping new immigrants in Canada find their feet, get off to a running start and ease their assimilation into Canadian life. A big part of the platform were conversations, community and support. Though the startup stopped growing once Aditya moved to Seattle, WA - it remained alive in the form of several discussion groups and online communities.


    Now, Diasporaa has been resurrected in the form of a podcast focused on uncovering and sharing interesting immigrant stories from the South Asian diaspora. It is available on YouTube, all major podcast platforms such as Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, etc. and is also broadcast as a radio show on Alternative Talk 1150 AM and 98.9 FM HD Channel 3 on Wednesdays from 2-3pm PST. 


    About Aditya Mehta:


    Aditya is a Bombay boy who has lived in Austin, Los Angeles, Washington DC, and Vancouver before making it to his current home in Seattle. He has degrees in marketing, urban planning, real estate and strategy but has spent his career in financial services, social media and now real estate - mostly as an entrepreneur and partly as an employee at Amazon.


    He balances Indian, Canadian and American culture, loves helping those who are new to North America and looks forward to the interesting stories that his interview guests bring each week. When not podcasting, he is helping his wife Prachi build her pharmaceutical business or hanging out with his son Arjun.


    Connect with Diasporaa:

    -Instagram: @diasporaapodcast

    -YouTube: https://linke.to/dspyoutube 

    -Bio Link: linke.to/diasporaa 

    -Listen on Spotify: https://linke.to/dspspotify

    -Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://linke.to/dspapple 

    -Diasporaa Podcast on KKNW Alternative Talk Radio: https://linke.to/kknw1150

    See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    54 min
  • The Impactful Immigrant: Sanjeev Joshipura’s Non-Profit Endeavour

    The Impactful Immigrant: Sanjeev Joshipura’s Non-Profit Endeavour | Diasporaa Podcast Episode 36


    In this episode of Diasporaa, hosted by Aditya Mehta, Sanjeev Joshipura shares his enriching journey from Mumbai to the U.S. and his impactful work with Indiaspora. Sanjeev discusses his experiences adjusting to life in different countries, his varied career path through corporate and nonprofit sectors, and the significant role Indiaspora plays in connecting and empowering the global Indian community. He also reflects on the changes in India’s global standing, the challenges around immigration policies in the U.S., and the increasing importance of the Indian diaspora in influencing bilateral relations and socio-economic development. Tune in for a deep dive into the life stories of immigrants and the broader narrative of the Indian diaspora.


    List of Resources:

    Dr. Manmohan Singh: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manmohan_Singh 

    High-context and Low-context culture: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/High-context_and_low-context_cultures 

    Indiaspora: https://indiaspora.org/ 

    Narendra Modi: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Narendra_Modi 

    Ronald Reagan: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ronald_Reagan 

    Rotman School of Management: https://www.rotman.utoronto.ca/ 

    S. Jaishankar: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/S._Jaishankar 


    About the Podcast: 


    Diasporaa was Aditya's third startup based in Vancouver, BC. It focused on helping new immigrants in Canada find their feet, get off to a running start and ease their assimilation into Canadian life. A big part of the platform were conversations, community and support. Though the startup stopped growing once Aditya moved to Seattle, WA - it remained alive in the form of several discussion groups and online communities.


    Now, Diasporaa has been resurrected in the form of a podcast focused on uncovering and sharing interesting immigrant stories from the South Asian diaspora. It is available on YouTube, all major podcast platforms such as Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, etc. and is also broadcast as a radio show on Alternative Talk 1150 AM and 98.9 FM HD Channel 3 on Wednesdays from 2-3pm PST. 


    About Aditya Mehta:


    Aditya is a Bombay boy who has lived in Austin, Los Angeles, Washington DC, and Vancouver before making it to his current home in Seattle. He has degrees in marketing, urban planning, real estate and strategy but has spent his career in financial services, social media and now real estate - mostly as an entrepreneur and partly as an employee at Amazon.


    He balances Indian, Canadian and American culture, loves helping those who are new to North America and looks forward to the interesting stories that his interview guests bring each week. When not podcasting, he is helping his wife Prachi build her pharmaceutical business or hanging out with his son Arjun.


    Connect with Diasporaa:

    -Instagram: @diasporaapodcast

    -YouTube: https://linke.to/dspyoutube 

    -Bio Link: linke.to/diasporaa 

    -Listen on Spotify: https://linke.to/dspspotify

    -Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://linke.to/dspapple 

    -Diasporaa Podcast on KKNW Alternative Talk Radio: https://linke.to/kknw1150


    See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    54 min
  • Back to Bangalore: Ashwin Gonibeed’s Networking Story

    Welcome to Diasporaa, the show where we share the remarkable stories of immigrants from the Indian subcontinent. In this episode, host Aditya Mehta interviews Ashwin Gonibeed, who discusses his journey from Bangalore to the United States. Ashwin details his experiences growing up in various Indian states before moving to Florida for his master's degree. He shares insights from his extensive career at T-Mobile, his executive MBA from Wharton, and his recent leap into entrepreneurship with his company Terra Casa. The conversation covers cultural adaptations, the complexities of parenting while balancing two different cultures, and the pivotal moments that shaped his life. Ashwin also talks about his involvement in theater in New York, the impact of his MBA, and his experience with the Business Networking International (BNI) community. Don't miss his inspiring story and entrepreneurial insights. Tune in for a discussion that spans heritage, innovation, and the universal journey of self-discovery. Remember to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories from the South Asian Diaspora!


    List of Resources:

    Bangalore: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bengaluru 

    Business Networking International: https://bniamerica.com/en-US/index 

    Chennai: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chennai 

    Gonibeed: https://villageinfo.in/karnataka/chikmagalur/mudigere/gonibeedu.html 

    Kannada: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kannada  

    Tamil Nadu: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tamil_Nadu 

    The Hero with a Thousand Faces: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Hero_with_a_Thousand_Faces


    About the Podcast: 


    Diasporaa was Aditya's third startup based in Vancouver, BC. It focused on helping new immigrants in Canada find their feet, get off to a running start and ease their assimilation into Canadian life. A big part of the platform were conversations, community and support. Though the startup stopped growing once Aditya moved to Seattle, WA - it remained alive in the form of several discussion groups and online communities.


    Now, Diasporaa has been resurrected in the form of a podcast focused on uncovering and sharing interesting immigrant stories from the South Asian diaspora. It is available on YouTube, all major podcast platforms such as Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, etc. and is also broadcast as a radio show on Alternative Talk 1150 AM and 98.9 FM HD Channel 3 on Wednesdays from 2-3pm PST. 


    About Aditya Mehta:


    Aditya is a Bombay boy who has lived in Austin, Los Angeles, Washington DC, and Vancouver before making it to his current home in Seattle. He has degrees in marketing, urban planning, real estate and strategy but has spent his career in financial services, social media and now real estate - mostly as an entrepreneur and partly as an employee at Amazon.


    He balances Indian, Canadian and American culture, loves helping those who are new to North America and looks forward to the interesting stories that his interview guests bring each week. When not podcasting, he is helping his wife Prachi build her pharmaceutical business or hanging out with his son Arjun.


    Connect with Diasporaa:

    -Instagram: @diasporaapodcast

    -YouTube: https://linke.to/dspyoutube 

    -Bio Link: linke.to/diasporaa 

    -Listen on Spotify: https://linke.to/dspspotify

    -Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://linke.to/dspapple 

    -Diasporaa Podcast on KKNW Alternative Talk Radio: https://linke.to/kknw1150

    See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    53 min
  • Weddings and Wanderlust: Jeanne D’Souza’s Cross-Continental Career

    Weddings and Wanderlust: Jeanne D’Souza’s Cross-Continental Career | Diasporaa Podcast Episode 34


    Welcome to Diasporaa, where we share the remarkable stories of immigrants from the Indian subcontinent. In this episode, host Aditya Mehta sits down with Jeanne D'Souza, a former wedding planner from Bombay who moved to Vancouver, BC in 2021. Jeanne shares her experiences working in India's vibrant wedding industry, her challenges and triumphs adapting to Canadian culture, and her current role as an events venue manager at the University of British Columbia. The conversation delves into cultural nuances, the work-life balance in Canada versus India, and Jeanne's future aspirations. Tune in for an insightful discussion about resilience, adaptation, and the immigrant experience. Remember to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories from the South Asian Diaspora!


    List of Resources:

    Bandra: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bandra 

    Borivali: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Borivali 

    D’Souza: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sousa_(surname) 

    Indo-Saracenic architecture: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indo-Saracenic_architecture 

    Jemimah Rodrigues: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jemimah_Rodrigues 

    LMIA: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/work-canada/hire-temporary-foreign/find-need-labour-market-impact-assessment.html 

    Made in Heaven: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Made_in_Heaven_(TV_series) 

    Malhar: https://malharfest.in/ 

    Mumbai Locals: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mumbai_Suburban_Railway 

    Portuguese in India: https://www.pmfias.com/portuguese-in-india/ 

    UBC Boathouse: https://ubcboathouse.com 

    Western Ghats: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Western_Ghats 


    About the Podcast: 


    Diasporaa was Aditya's third startup based in Vancouver, BC. It focused on helping new immigrants in Canada find their feet, get off to a running start and ease their assimilation into Canadian life. A big part of the platform were conversations, community and support. Though the startup stopped growing once Aditya moved to Seattle, WA - it remained alive in the form of several discussion groups and online communities.


    Now, Diasporaa has been resurrected in the form of a podcast focused on uncovering and sharing interesting immigrant stories from the South Asian diaspora. It is available on YouTube, all major podcast platforms such as Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, etc. and is also broadcast as a radio show on Alternative Talk 1150 AM and 98.9 FM HD Channel 3 on Wednesdays from 2-3pm PST. 


    About Aditya Mehta:


    Aditya is a Bombay boy who has lived in Austin, Los Angeles, Washington DC, and Vancouver before making it to his current home in Seattle. He has degrees in marketing, urban planning, real estate and strategy but has spent his career in financial services, social media and now real estate - mostly as an entrepreneur and partly as an employee at Amazon.


    He balances Indian, Canadian and American culture, loves helping those who are new to North America and looks forward to the interesting stories that his interview guests bring each week. When not podcasting, he is helping his wife Prachi build her pharmaceutical business or hanging out with his son Arjun.


    Connect with Diasporaa:

    Instagram: @diasporaapodcast

    YouTube: https://linke.to/dspyoutube 

    Bio Link: linke.to/diasporaa 

    Listen on Spotify: https://linke.to/dspspotify

    Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://linke.to/dspapple 

    Diasporaa Podcast on KKNW Alternative Talk Radio: https://linke.to/kknw1150

    See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    55 min
  • Balancing Cultures: Prachi Mehta’s North American Adventure

    Balancing Cultures: Prachi Mehta’s North American Adventure | Diasporaa Podcast Episode 33

    In this episode of Diasporaa, host Aditya Mehta sits down with his wife Prachi Mehta, an entrepreneur in the pharmaceutical industry, to share her journey from Mumbai to Vancouver and eventually Seattle. Prachi recounts her upbringing in a bustling household in Bombay, her transition to life in North America, and the challenges and triumphs she faced along the way. The couple discusses their arranged marriage, Prachi's professional ventures, and the cultural assimilation they both experienced. Prachi also delves into her entrepreneurial pursuits, including her current venture, Sowaka Health, which aims to bridge the gap between pharmaceutical availability in the Western and developing worlds. They explore the nuances of raising their son with values from both Eastern and Western cultures and reflect on their experiences, friendships, and the dynamic shifts in their personal and professional lives.


    List of Resources:

    Ayurvedic: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ayurveda 

    Dhara oil commercial: https://youtu.be/hIDWHiTrjZ8?si=ba6OG6c4UNSSIFsP 

    London Business School (LBS): https://www.london.edu/ 

    Mehendi: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mehndi 

    Sowaka Health: https://sowakahealth.com/ 


    About the Podcast:

    Diasporaa was Aditya's third startup based in Vancouver, BC. It focused on helping new immigrants in Canada find their feet, get off to a running start and ease their assimilation into Canadian life. A big part of the platform were conversations, community and support. Though the startup stopped growing once Aditya moved to Seattle, WA - it remained alive in the form of several discussion groups and online communities.


    Now, Diasporaa has been resurrected in the form of a podcast focused on uncovering and sharing interesting immigrant stories from the South Asian diaspora. It is available on YouTube, all major podcast platforms such as Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, etc. and is also broadcast as a radio show on Alternative Talk 1150 AM and 98.9 FM HD Channel 3 on Wednesdays from 2-3pm PST.


    About Aditya Mehta:

    Aditya is a Bombay boy who has lived in Austin, Los Angeles, Washington DC, and Vancouver before making it to his current home in Seattle. He has degrees in marketing, urban planning, real estate and strategy but has spent his career in financial services, social media and now real estate - mostly as an entrepreneur and partly as an employee at Amazon.


    He balances Indian, Canadian and American culture, loves helping those who are new to North America and looks forward to the interesting stories that his interview guests bring each week. When not podcasting, he is helping his wife Prachi build her pharmaceutical business or hanging out with his son Arjun.


    Connect with Diasporaa:

    -Instagram: @diasporaapodcast

    -YouTube: https://linke.to/dspyoutube 

    -Bio Link: linke.to/diasporaa 

    -Listen on Spotify: https://linke.to/dspspotify

    -Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://linke.to/dspapple 

    - Podcast on KKNW Alternative Talk Radio: https://linke.to/kknw1150

    See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    56 min
  • Boomerang to UAE: Rakesh George's Remarkable Comeback Story

    Boomerang to UAE: Rakesh George's Remarkable Comeback Story | Diasporaa Podcast Episode 32


    Welcome to Diaspora, the show where we share the remarkable stories of immigrants from the Indian subcontinent. In this episode, host Aditya Mehta interviews Rakesh George, a hospitality industry professional with an extensive career spanning the UAE and Canada. Rakesh discusses his upbringing in the UAE with roots in Kerala, his education and career in the hospitality sector, and his unique experience of moving to Canada just before the COVID-19 pandemic. He delves into the challenges and triumphs of adapting to a new culture while staying connected to his roots and eventually returning to UAE. The conversation explores perspectives on migration, the importance of having a clear 'why,' and balancing professional and personal life. Tune in for an insightful discussion that captures the essence of navigating life between multiple homes. Remember to subscribe and follow Diaspora for more inspiring stories from the South Asian diaspora!


    List of Resources:

    Coimbatore: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coimbatore 

    Ferrari world: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ferrari_World 

    Kerala: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kerala 

    Kochi: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kochi 

    Leh Ladakh: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leh 

    Limca: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Limca 

    Malayali: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Malayalis 

    Ooty: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ooty 

    Yas island: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yas_Island 


    About the Podcast: 


    Diasporaa was Aditya's third startup based in Vancouver, BC. It focused on helping new immigrants in Canada find their feet, get off to a running start and ease their assimilation into Canadian life. A big part of the platform were conversations, community and support. Though the startup stopped growing once Aditya moved to Seattle, WA - it remained alive in the form of several discussion groups and online communities.


    Now, Diasporaa has been resurrected in the form of a podcast focused on uncovering and sharing interesting immigrant stories from the South Asian diaspora. It is available on YouTube, all major podcast platforms such as Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, etc. and is also broadcast as a radio show on Alternative Talk 1150 AM and 98.9 FM HD Channel 3 on Wednesdays from 2-3pm PST. 


    About Aditya Mehta:


    Aditya is a Bombay boy who has lived in Austin, Los Angeles, Washington DC, and Vancouver before making it to his current home in Seattle. He has degrees in marketing, urban planning, real estate and strategy but has spent his career in financial services, social media and now real estate - mostly as an entrepreneur and partly as an employee at Amazon.


    He balances Indian, Canadian and American culture, loves helping those who are new to North America and looks forward to the interesting stories that his interview guests bring each week. When not podcasting, he is helping his wife Prachi build her pharmaceutical business or hanging out with his son Arjun.


    Connect with Diasporaa:

    -Instagram: @diasporaapodcast

    -YouTube: https://linke.to/dspyoutube 

    -Bio Link: linke.to/diasporaa 

    -Listen on Spotify: https://linke.to/dspspotify

    -Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://linke.to/dspapple 

    -Diasporaa Podcast on KKNW Alternative Talk Radio: https://linke.to/kknw1150


    See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    54 min
  • Finding Home Twice: Ekansh Bhatia's Immigrant Entrepreneur Journey

    Finding Home Twice: Ekansh Bhatia's Immigrant Entrepreneur Journey | Diasporaa Podcast Episode 31


    Welcome to Diaspora, the show where we share the remarkable stories of immigrants from the Indian subcontinent. In this episode, host Aditya Mehta sits down with Ekansh Bhatia, an entrepreneur who recounts his journey from Ranchi and Surat in India to Canada and eventually North Carolina. Ekansh talks about the cultural and professional challenges faced during his transitions, including language hurdles and job market adaptation. He discusses his motivations for moving abroad, his dual experience in navigating North America, and the eventual emancipation into property management through PMI in Raleigh. Ekansh also shares touching personal stories, such as the impact of his father's passing and the importance of family. This episode enriches listeners with insightful reflections on immigrant life, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit. Don't miss this engaging conversation that offers a deeper understanding of the South Asian diaspora experience. Remember to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories from the South Asian Diaspora!


    List of Resources:

    Jaipur: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jaipur 

    Jodhpur: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jodhpur 

    Maratha Mandir: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maratha_Mandir 

    PMI: https://www.propertymanagementinc.com/ 

    Raman Dua: https://www.theweekendleader.com/Success/3051/the-canadian-dream.html 

    Ranchi: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ranchi 

    Surat: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Surat 

    Udaipur: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Udaipur 

    Vaishno Devi: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vaishno_Devi_Temple 


    About the Podcast: 


    Diasporaa was Aditya's third startup based in Vancouver, BC. It focused on helping new immigrants in Canada find their feet, get off to a running start and ease their assimilation into Canadian life. A big part of the platform were conversations, community and support. Though the startup stopped growing once Aditya moved to Seattle, WA - it remained alive in the form of several discussion groups and online communities.


    Now, Diasporaa has been resurrected in the form of a podcast focused on uncovering and sharing interesting immigrant stories from the South Asian diaspora. It is available on YouTube, all major podcast platforms such as Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, etc. and is also broadcast as a radio show on Alternative Talk 1150 AM and 98.9 FM HD Channel 3 on Wednesdays from 2-3pm PST.


    About Aditya Mehta:


    Aditya is a Bombay boy who has lived in Austin, Los Angeles, Washington DC, and Vancouver before making it to his current home in Seattle. He has degrees in marketing, urban planning, real estate and strategy but has spent his career in financial services, social media and now real estate - mostly as an entrepreneur and partly as an employee at Amazon.


    He balances Indian, Canadian and American culture, loves helping those who are new to North America and looks forward to the interesting stories that his interview guests bring each week. When not podcasting, he is helping his wife Prachi build her pharmaceutical business or hanging out with his son Arjun.


    Connect with Diasporaa:

    -Instagram: @diasporaapodcast

    -YouTube: https://linke.to/dspyoutube 

    -Bio Link: linke.to/diasporaa 

    -Listen on Spotify: https://linke.to/dspspotify

    -Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://linke.to/dspapple 

    -Diasporaa Podcast on KKNW Alternative Talk Radio: https://linke.to/kknw1150

    See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    54 min

About Diasporaa

From the publisher's feed

What does it truly mean to bridge worlds? To carry the weight of heritage while forging a new path?

Diasporaa invites you to journey alongside first-generation immigrants from the Indian…