In this episode of Empower Sounds, I sit down with Celia Pool, co-founder of the revolutionary sustainable period product company, DAME. Celia shares the inspiring journey behind DAME’s creation, the challenges she faced, and why creating sustainable menstrual products is essential for both personal health and environmental impact. We dive deep into the world of reusable period products, like DAME’s game-changing tampon applicator, and how they can transform lives while helping combat waste.

We also discuss the cultural stigma surrounding periods, the role of social media in breaking down taboos, and the importance of having open and inclusive conversations around menstruation and women’s health. If you’re passionate about sustainability, women’s health, or just curious about how small changes can make a big difference, this episode is for you!

Key Takeaways:

•The powerful story behind DAME and how it’s reducing period waste through sustainable products.

•Why reusable period products, like DAME’s tampon applicator, are game-changers for menstrual health.

•How breaking the stigma around periods can empower women and improve conversations around health.

•My conversation with Celia on navigating imposter syndrome and running a purpose-driven business.

•How education, awareness, and accessibility are key to encouraging the shift towards sustainable period products.

Resources Mentioned:

•DAME’s Website: wearedame.co

•Bloody Good Period

Connect with Celia Pool:

•LinkedIn: Celia Pool

•Instagram: @celia.inc

Follow Empower Sounds:

•Instagram: @EmpowerSounds

•TikTok: @EmpowerSoundsPodcast

•Linktree: linktr.ee/empowersounds

For inquiries, email us at [email protected].

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

Welcome to Episode 21 of the Empower Sounds podcast! 🎙️ This episode is a little different—I had a spontaneous moment of inspiration and wanted to share my thoughts with you all. Grab a cup of tea, settle in, and let’s talk about why it’s okay to be bad at your hobbies and how embracing imperfection can bring so much joy.

Key Takeaways:

❤️ The importance of hobbies for pure enjoyment, not productivity: I rediscovered my love for painting recently and realized that it’s not about being good at something but enjoying the process. We often forget that not everything has to be productive or serve a higher purpose.

❤️ The struggle with perfectionism: So many of us stop doing things because we aren’t great at them. I shared how my paintings didn’t match the Pinterest images I was referencing, and it led to frustration. But here’s the thing—it’s okay! It’s about the act of creating, not the final product.

❤️ Link to neurodivergence: As someone diagnosed with dyspraxia, I’ve always had challenges with sports, feeling like I didn’t fit in. I referenced my conversation with Nidhi from Episode 20, where we discussed how neurodivergent individuals often struggle with activities, but pushing through that discomfort can lead to real joy and growth.

❤️ The cultural pressure for success: We live in a world that celebrates expertise, but not everything in life needs to be mastered. I encourage you to let go of the need to be great at something just to enjoy it.

❤️ Letting go of the fear of failure: I spoke about gym anxiety and how I hesitated to join run clubs, thinking I’d be the worst one there. But I did it anyway and had an amazing time. Sometimes we just need to step out of our comfort zones and allow ourselves to be beginners.

Actionable Steps:

• Make a list of hobbies you’ve always wanted to try: Whether it’s painting, dancing, or playing an instrument, jot down things you’ve always been curious about but haven’t pursued because of fear or lack of time.
• Set small goals: You don’t need to commit hours every day. Start with 15 minutes once a week. Just a little time to enjoy the process without the pressure to get better.
• Invite a friend: If trying something new on your own feels intimidating, invite a friend to join you. Doing it together can make it more fun and less anxiety-inducing.
• Let go of judgment: When you start a new hobby, don’t judge yourself if you’re not great at it. Remember, the point is to have fun, not to be perfect.
• Celebrate the process, not the product: Remind yourself that joy comes from the act of doing, not from the final result. Embrace being bad at something—it’s liberating!

Let’s take this challenge together—share your hobby list with me at @empowersoundspodcast Instagram. I’d love to hear what new things you’re trying, and remember, it’s about having fun, not being perfect!

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram at @empowersounds and on TikTok at @empowersoundspodcast for more updates, behind-the-scenes content, and empowering stories. To learn more, visit: linktr.ee/empowersounds.

Inquiries: [email protected]

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

In this episode of Empower Sounds, I sit down with Nidhi Sethi, founder of behind the smiles, who shares her journey of being diagnosed with autism at the age of 17. Nidhi talks about navigating life with a late diagnosis, the challenges of living with sensory processing disorder, and how she used her platform to raise awareness and break down the stigma surrounding autism—especially how it manifests differently in females.

Key Takeaways:

🧠 Early Signs and Diagnosis: Nidhi opens up about her early struggles with sensory processing disorder and how a TikTok video led her to explore her potential autism diagnosis at 17.

🌍 Shattering Stereotypes: Discussing the difference in how autism presents in females versus males, Nidhi emphasizes that most societal perceptions of autism are male-oriented and how she had to navigate that societal bias both before and after her diagnosis.

💡 Masking and Mental Health: Nidhi shares her experience with masking—hiding behind a smile to fit in—and how it can lead to emotional burnout. She offers advice on how to manage masking and avoid emotional exhaustion through setting boundaries and practicing self-care.

🔄 Gender Differences in Autism: We dive into the scientific research that initially focused on males, leaving many women underdiagnosed. Nidhi discusses how this affects the way girls experience and express autism differently from boys.

🌸 Breaking the Mask: Nidhi encourages others to embrace authenticity and break the mask of “always being okay.” She shares practical tips on saying “no,” managing boundaries, and how breaking societal expectations helped her stay true to herself.

💪 University and Autism: Navigating university life as an autistic woman, Nidhi discusses challenges such as time blindness, sensory issues, and building a new support system, all while managing mental health struggles.

🎯 Finding Strength through Sport: Nidhi’s journey to running the London Marathon highlights her resilience and how physical activity has become a powerful outlet for managing anxiety.

What You’ll Learn:

•How to seek support for autism and neurodivergence

•Strategies for managing emotional burnout and setting boundaries

•Understanding the gender differences in autism diagnosis and presentation

•The importance of finding an outlet and building a support network

Tune in for an empowering conversation about breaking barriers, embracing neurodiversity, and living life authentically.

💬 Join the Conversation: Let us know your thoughts about this episode by commenting on our Instagram @empowersoundspodcast or DM us with what you want to hear next!

connect with Nidhi :

instagram : nidhisethix

running account: @nidsruns

https://www.behindthesmiles.co.uk/

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

In this episode, I dive into the journey of not caring what people think and how to stop letting others’ opinions hold you back from living authentically. Inspired by The Courage to Be Disliked, I share personal stories of self-expression, breaking free from external validation, and finding the courage to be true to yourself—no matter what others might think.

I talk about why it’s natural to care about others’ approval and how it’s rooted in our survival instincts, but also why it’s crucial to overcome this fear to live a fulfilling life. I’ll walk you through steps to forgive yourself for prioritizing others’ expectations in the past, and how to start trusting your intuition rather than constantly seeking external validation.

Key Takeaways:

• Why We Care About Approval: I explore the deep-seated evolutionary reasons for caring about what others think and how to recognize this as a normal part of being human.
• Forgiveness & Reclaiming Your Voice: Learn how to forgive yourself for the times when you lived to please others, and begin the journey of reclaiming your true self.
• Stop Seeking External Validation: Discover how constantly asking for opinions weakens self-trust, and why it’s time to start making decisions based on your intuition.
• The Separation of Tasks: Drawing from Adler’s theory, I explain why others’ opinions are not your task and how to stay focused on living in alignment with your values.
• Building Confidence: Start with small acts of courage, like posting something without overthinking or making decisions independently, and watch your confidence grow over time.

Actionable Steps:

1.Identify Your Triggers: Write down specific situations where you feel overly concerned with what others think, and recognize which parts of those concerns are not your responsibility.

2.Take Small, Courageous Steps: Begin with one small act of self-expression that makes you uncomfortable—whether it’s sharing a post without seeking validation or standing up for yourself in a conversation.

3.Curate a Supportive Environment: Unfollow or mute people and accounts that make you feel small, and surround yourself with those who inspire and empower you.

4.Trust Yourself: Start making small decisions—like what to wear or post—without consulting others, and grow your ability to trust your own voice.

Journal Prompts (more on the Instagram page):

•What areas of your life are most affected by worrying about what others think?

•What decisions could you start making without seeking validation from others?

•How can you create a supportive environment that empowers your self-expression?

Listen to related episodes:

20 Things I Learned at 20

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram at @empowersounds and on TikTok at @empowersoundspodcast for more updates, behind-the-scenes content, and empowering stories. To learn more, visit: linktr.ee/empowersounds.

Inquiries: [email protected]

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

In this episode, we sit down with Jasmine, the founder of INTI Jewellery (formerly known as Jazz Rings), to explore her incredible journey from a small side hustle to a thriving full-time business. Jasmine shares how she started her handmade jewelry line while studying marketing at university, balancing the demands of academia with her growing passion for jewelry design.

We delve into the challenges she faced, from managing her time to navigating the complexities of rebranding her business. Jasmine opens up about the pivotal moment when she decided to quit her full-time job and focus entirely on her side hustle, a move that was both terrifying and empowering.

Jasmine’s story is a testament to the power of passion, persistence, and purpose in business. Whether you’re thinking of starting your own side hustle or looking to take your current project to the next level, this episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiration.

Key Takeaways:

1.Start with a Purpose: Jasmine’s business began from a personal need, which helped her create a brand with authenticity and heart.

2.Mastering Time Management: Balancing a side hustle with other responsibilities is tough, but Jasmine shares her tips for staying organized and focused.

3.The Power of Storytelling: Having a compelling story and strong ‘why’ can be a game-changer in connecting with your audience and securing funding.

4.Rebranding for Growth: Jasmine’s journey of rebranding her business was strategic, ensuring her brand evolved with her growing vision.

5.Giving Back: From supporting Syrian relief to incorporating sustainability into her practices, Jasmine is committed to making a positive impact.

Resources Mentioned:

• Follow Inti Jewellery @intijewellery
• Visit Inti Jewellery’s website: https://intijewellery.co.uk/
• Connect with Jasmine for marketing and business coaching: @makemarketingeasy
• Connect with Jasmine @jasminesandouk
• palestine suppport resources : https://palestinecampaign.org/ https://www.protectpalestine.org/ https://www.unicef.org.uk/donate/children-in-gaza-crisis-appeal/?gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAAD6VRsjE6VffJbqs4jrQIR60tAyye&gclid=CjwKCAjw59q2BhBOEiwAKc0ija0cKo0bu9raVsltndkz3LqGIlVuGHoN31Zr_t2vSLmi2eSf33alCxoC-HMQAvD_BwE

Follow Empower Sounds:

•Instagram: @EmpowerSounds

•TikTok: @EmpowerSoundsPodcast

•Linktree: linktr.ee/empowersounds

For inquiries, email us at [email protected].

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

In this episode, I dive into the feeling of being overwhelmed. Whether you’re trying to balance too many responsibilities, dealing with energy-draining tasks, or just feeling the weight of pressure, I’m here to share some practical strategies that have helped me regain my balance.

I talk about how to “close the tabs in your brain,” starting with making mind maps and prioritizing tasks to clear mental clutter. I also explore the concept of an energy budget—how I’ve learned to allocate my energy more wisely and avoid spending it on things that drain me. From identifying energy vampires to making time for intentional silence, I’ll walk you through the steps I take to manage my mental load. I’ve also found that creating personal antidotes for negative emotions like anxiety and fatigue can make a huge difference when I’m feeling overwhelmed.

Key Takeaways:

•Identify Your Overwhelm: I discuss how to recognize whether your overwhelm is due to too many tasks, energy-draining activities, or excessive pressure.

•Mind Mapping & Brain Dumping: Learn how I organize my thoughts by writing everything down, then prioritize, schedule, delegate, and discard tasks to create mental space.

•Energy Budget: I share my approach to thinking of energy as a budget—allocating it wisely and avoiding overspending on tasks that don’t serve me.

•No Plan Mondays: I explain how I’ve embraced “No Plan Mondays” or set aside intentional time to recharge and reflect.

•Intentional Silence: Discover how I make room for quiet moments to process my thoughts and prevent overstimulation.

•Antidotes for Negative Emotions: I talk about how I’ve created personal antidotes for emotions like anxiety, fatigue, and overwhelm.

Journal Prompts (more on the instagram page) :

•What type of overwhelm are you experiencing right now?

•Which tasks or commitments are draining your energy the most?

•How can you better allocate your energy to focus on what truly matters?

the antidotes episode from the spanish podcast, : https://open.spotify.com/episode/04adGinuSe9cf13vvuhRtO?si=oDNs1WP6RL-isDQg0Zc6ew

the episode on sleep science: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Us8n8VBQn_c

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram at @empowersounds and on TikTok at @empowersoundspodcast for more updates, behind-the-scenes content, and empowering stories. To learn more, visit: linktr.ee/empowersounds.

enquires: [email protected]

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

In today´s episode, I sit down with the incredible Sharena Shiv, founder of Devotion Property Management and host of the “Startup Start Now” podcast, which has reached the top 1% of global podcasts. Sharena shares her remarkable journey, from her early days growing up in Exeter to building a thriving business and podcast that inspires entrepreneurs worldwide.

In this conversation, we explore:

• Starting Small, Dreaming Big: How Sharena used her existing skills in property management to launch her own business and why you don’t need to reinvent the wheel to succeed.

• Finding Your Voice: The journey of launching “Startup Start Now,” overcoming imposter syndrome, and learning to call herself an entrepreneur.

• Building in the Dark: Sharena’s approach to growing her business quietly and how she navigated the pressure to appear successful while working on her dreams.

• The Power of Community: From founding the Aston Women in Business society to her current role as a UK ambassador for Homestart, Sharena emphasizes the importance of building supportive networks.

• The Joy of the Journey: Why Sharena finds fulfillment in the process of her work and how she balances multiple roles without burning out.

• Embracing Movement: Sharena’s running journey, from her first 5K to completing two London Marathons, and how she uses physical activity to maintain balance in her life.

• Living with Purpose: The impact of choosing a life path that aligns with your values, even when it means taking unconventional risks.

What is a B Corp?

A B Corporation, or B Corp, is a certification for businesses that meet the highest standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. B Corps are committed to using business as a force for good, balancing profit with purpose. They are legally required to consider the impact of their decisions on their workers, customers, suppliers, community, and the environment. If you’re interested in learning more or considering becoming a B Corp, you can find additional resources and information here.

Tune in to hear Sharena’s insights on entrepreneurship, personal growth, and how to navigate life’s challenges with resilience and grace.

Stay Connected with Sharena:

•Instagram: Sharenashiv

•LinkedIn: Sharena Shiv

•Podcast: https://www.startupstartnow.co.uk/

https://www.sharena.co.uk/

Follow Empower Sounds:

•Instagram: @EmpowerSounds

•TikTok: @EmpowerSoundsPodcast

•Linktree: linktr.ee/empowersounds

For inquiries, email us at [email protected].

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

Welcome to the first episode of Season 2 of Empower Sounds! In this special solo episode, I reflect on the past year—a year that began with the launch of this podcast on my 20th birthday. Since then, I’ve moved to Spain and back, experienced living alone, and learned some valuable lessons that have shaped who I am today. As I turn 21, I’m sharing the 20 most impactful lessons I’ve learned along the way...

In this episode, I dive into lessons such as:

•You are not the writer, but you are the narrator: The power of choosing how you tell your own story.

•Cringe is inevitable: Embracing cringe as a sign of growth and learning to climb “cringe mountain.”

•Not my circus, not my monkeys: The art of detachment and letting go of what’s not yours to control.

•Silence speaks volumes: Understanding that the universe only shouts when it’s angry, and the value of listening to silence.

•You get to choose who you are: How running with dyspraxia taught me the importance of self-definition.

•Get out of your head and into your body: The importance of regulating your nervous system and not trying to think your way out of overthinking.

•You can’t hate yourself into loving yourself: The journey of healing because you love yourself, not because you think you’re broken.

•Celebrate the small moments: How I celebrated every anniversary in Spain and the importance of recognizing small victories.

•Mini Cooper theory: You see more of what you notice, whether it’s cars, energy, or opportunities.

•Surround yourself with people who celebrate you: Why it’s vital to have a supportive circle that makes space for everyone to shine. (listen to Alessia's episode on this EP 9)

•Detachment is key: The lesson that you get what you want when you’re at peace with or without it.

•Face your fears: Turning fears into strengths through patience, acceptance, and courage.

•Know what you want before seeking advice: The importance of checking in with yourself first before seeking input from others.

•Seek advice from those with the outcomes you desire: How others’ limiting beliefs can shape their advice.

•You are what you consume: The importance of surrounding yourself with uplifting media, ideas, and people.

•Externalize the situation: Realizing that not everything is about you and that people often don’t try hard enough to avoid causing harm.

•Be non-reactive: The value of pausing before responding, and understanding that if something feels hysterical, it’s often historical.

•You are always winning: Life either gives you what you want, shows you what you don’t, or offers a chance to challenge your beliefs.

These are just a few of the insights I’ve gathered as I navigate my 20s. Tune in to hear more about each of these lessons and how they’ve shaped my journey.

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram at @empowersounds and on TikTok at @empowersoundspodcast for more updates, behind-the-scenes content, and empowering stories.

to learn more visit : linktr.ee/empowersounds

enquires at [email protected]

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

On the final episode of the Empower Sounds podcast for Season One, we are joined by Farah Nanji, A DJ, Race-car Driver, podcast host, TED Speaker and Entrepreneur. On this episode we delve into each of Farah’s endeavours and learning all about the music, motorsport and business industries

Farah starts the episode by sharing her journey into the world of electronic music and becoming a DJ. She touches on how she chose her niche and infuses different genres into her sound, highlighting her method for finding music for her sets. Touching on healthy work boundaries she shares how she ensures that music continues to be a source of joy and not just work, learning to manage overwhelm, especially in a career such as DJ-ing which involves late nights, lots of traveling and several lifestyle demands which although can seem glamorous, are at times quite difficult. Developing on this, she stresses the importance of building good habits to ensure consistency, fulfilment and professional success.

Aside from being a DJ, Farah is further involved in the music industry as a lecturer at Point Blank University teaching marketing branding and fostering an entrepreneurial spirit in the next generation of DJ´s and musicians. She is also working in the creational team for the upcoming International Music Summit in Ibiza, a conference started over 15 years by Pete Tong, hosting artists who define the industry. With this role, Farah shares what her hopes are for the future of the industry and how it can make improvements to be more equitable, inclusive and sustainable as only 2% of music producers currently are female.

Claiming that “racing is my ying, and music is my yang” Farah shares her involvement in the motorsport industry as well and how being a racer driver has helped her push her limits and boundaries and grow as an individual. Due to her diagnosis of dyspraxia at age 15, Farah choose not to pursue racing as a professional athlete however started her company Regents Racing, a club which fosters a love for motorsport.

Touching more on Dyspraxia, Farah explains how although initially something that made her feel imposter syndrome , her disability is her superpower now. She explains her motivations for choosing to give a TED Talk about dyspraxia and her experience. Creating and curating her talk in 6 weeks whilst in 6 countries, Farah also shares her experience preparing and delivering a Ted Talk.

To combine her love for motorsport and music which her experience as a journalist and music producer, Farah also launched the podcast “Mission Makers” a global 2% podcast which dives into the mindset and misconceptions of the Music, Motorsport industries. She talks through her process of creating the podcast which involved 10 months of planning and preparation before it launched and how it has gone on to have guests at the top of each field including Carl Cox, Deepak Chopra and Sanjay Nandi

Some of the key themes and takeaways of todays conversation include:

• combining your passions and creating a career you love
• the process of creating and delivering a tedtalk
• the process of launching a podcast
• overcoming adversity and obstacles of disability
• insight into the music industry
• accessibility issues in the motorsport industry
• Believing in yourself and not cracking under pressure.

Follow Farah at @dj.n1nja

Follow Mission Makers @missionmakers

https://www.mission-makers.com

Learn more about the International Music Summit @internationalmusicsummit

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

On todays episode of The Empower Sounds podcast we are joined by Aspen Bollinger who shares everything you need to know about being a digital nomad.

Aspen starts by sharing why she decided to move abroad and how she made that possible, highlighting how she was able to negotiate working remotely and living abroad with her company .

She also shares how she made friends in a new city despite not knowing anyone, providing advice for others looking to branch out and create new friendships, referencing the tools and mindsets she used to meet new people.

Alongside talking about the benefits of flexibility aspen discusses the difficulties of working and living abroad. This including work related issues but combatting feelings of homesickness and the discomfort of everything being unfamiliar. She also discusses possible ways to overcome these difficulties and avoid burnout.

Aspen also talks about her side hustle as a freelance graphic designer, she shares the story of starting her own company and how she up-skilled herself whilst finding and nurturing her passion. She delves into this theme further by outlining how she grew a client base and managed to scale her business going from earning $8 to $55 hours on average.

Some of the key themes and takeaways of todays conversation include:

• Stepping out of your comfort zone and making things you want come to fruition
• How to negotiate the terms you want with your employer
• Making friends in a new city
• How to overcome homesickness and feeling lonely
• How to start and grow your side hustle

Follow Aspen: @aspen_bollinger @aspen_jade_designs

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