Summary

In this conversation, clinical psychologist Priya  shares her journey from South Africa to Australia, discussing her cultural identity, experiences growing up as an immigrant, and her path into psychology. She reflects on the challenges she faced in her career, the importance of collaboration in her practice, and her passion for reading and traveling. Priya also emphasizes the significance of work-life balance and self-care, offering insights into her personal and professional life.


Takeaways

Priya   is a clinical psychologist and co-owner of Blueprint Psychology in Sydney.
She works with children, young people, and adults, focusing on autism, ADHD, and trauma.
Priya's cultural background is a blend of Indian heritage and South African upbringing.
She faced challenges fitting in during her early years in Australia due to a lack of multiculturalism.
Her interest in psychology was influenced by her experiences caring for a family member with disabilities.
Priya transitioned from a school setting to private practice to reduce bureaucracy and increase collaboration.
She values creating a warm and collaborative environment in her practice.
Reading and traveling are her main hobbies, though she struggles to find time for them.
Priya believes in setting boundaries to maintain work-life balance, though she admits it's challenging.
She advises her younger self to work hard and understand her strengths before responsibilities take over.


Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Priya 
02:36 Cultural Identity and Migration Experiences
05:11 Early Life and Schooling in Australia
08:04 Navigating Cultural Differences
10:16 Choosing a Career in Psychology
12:25 Challenges in the Psychology Profession
13:54 Navigating the Shift to Private Practice
16:16 Passion Projects and Personal Interests
18:00 The Quest for Work-Life Balance
21:24 Defining 'Me Time' and Personal Relaxation
23:14 Reflections and Advice for the Younger Self
24:02 Literary Interests and Reading Habits

Keywords

radiology, women in medicine, cultural identity, AI in healthcare, work-life balance, film production, dance, personal growth, mentorship, health and fitness


Summary

In this episode, Dr. Pradnya Dugal shares her inspiring journey as a radiologist, entrepreneur, and filmmaker. She discusses her cultural background, the challenges she faced growing up as a minority in Australia, and her experiences in the medical field, particularly as a female leader. Dr. Dugal emphasizes the importance of embracing one's identity, the integration of AI in healthcare, and the balance between work and family life. She also shares her passion for dance and film production, highlighting her commitment to storytelling and cultural representation.


Titles

The Journey of Dr. Pradnya Dugal: A Radiologist's Story
Embracing Cultural Identity in Medicine


Sound bites

"Strong is sexy."
"Embrace your differences."
"It's about creating yourself."


Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Pradnya Dugal
02:46 Journey in Medicine and Radiology
05:30 Cultural Background and Identity
08:03 Challenges of Growing Up as a Minority
09:42 Transition to Sydney and Education
12:20 Establishing Synergy Radiology Group
14:36 Integrating AI in Radiology
17:22 Overcoming Gender Challenges in Medicine
19:39 Balancing Work and Family Life
22:11 Passion for Dance and Film Production
24:35 Inspiration Behind Film Projects
27:02 Advice to Younger Self and Women
29:28 Importance of Self-Care and Fitness
31:49 Family Activities and Quality Time
34:18 Final Thoughts and Inspirational Quotes

Keywords

Dr. Srishti Dutta, General Practice, Australia, GP Training, Cultural Assimilation, Podcasting, Health, Personal Growth, Education, Women in Medicine


Summary

In this conversation, Dr. Srishti Dutta shares her journey from India to Australia, discussing her motivations for moving, the challenges she faced in adapting to a new healthcare system, and her current roles in general practice and GP training. She reflects on her experiences with cultural assimilation, the importance of mentorship in her career, and her passion for education in the medical field. Dr. Dutta also touches on her personal health journey and the significance of being present in the moment, offering insights and advice for balancing work and personal life.


Takeaways

Dr. Srishti Dutta emphasizes the importance of family connections in her move to Australia.
Cultural assimilation can be a complex process for new migrants.
Mentorship plays a crucial role in professional development in medicine.
The transition to a new healthcare system can present unique challenges.
Dr. Dutta values the nurturing aspect of teaching and training future GPs.
Personal health is often overlooked by those in caregiving roles, including doctors.
Being present in the moment can enhance personal and professional relationships.
Time management is essential for balancing work and family life.
Dr. Dutta's podcasting journey reflects her commitment to sharing knowledge and experiences.
The importance of self-care and prioritizing one's health is a recurring theme in Dr. Dutta's narrative.


Titles

Navigating the Journey of a Migrant Doctor
Cultural Assimilation in a New Land


Sound bites

"I think we all know when things are transitioning."
"I think we don't value that nurturing quite as much."
"You will get there until then be here."


Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Srishti Dutta
01:40 Journey to Australia: Origins and Motivations
03:31 Navigating Early Challenges in Australia
05:37 Cultural Assimilation and Early Experiences
08:51 Current Role and Involvement in GP Training
11:21 The Importance of Mentorship in General Practice
12:33 Involvement with GP Supervision Australia
14:48 Podcasting Journey and Advocacy for IMGs
16:21 Understanding Diversity in Medicine
17:35 Passion Projects and Personal Growth
18:05 Health and Wellbeing Awareness
20:50 Finding Joy in Simple Pleasures
23:47 Lessons from the Past
27:19 Being Present in the Moment

Keywords

Dr. Shanti Raman, community pediatrics, cultural identity, gender bias, Australia, healthcare, dance, public health, migrant experience, child health


Summary

In this conversation, Dr. Shanti Raman shares her journey as a pediatrician and her experiences as a migrant in Australia. She discusses her early reluctance to move, her commitment to community health, and the challenges she faced as a woman of color in the medical field. Dr. Raman emphasizes the importance of addressing social issues in pediatric care and reflects on her passion for dance and community engagement. She offers valuable insights for the younger generation about work-life balance and the importance of self-care.


Takeaways

Dr. Shanti Raman is a consultant pediatrician and professor at UNSW.
She migrated to Australia against her will during her medical studies.
Cultural identity plays a significant role in her professional journey.
Dr. Raman has faced gender and racial bias in her career.
She emphasizes the need for community support for women in medicine.
The challenges in community pediatrics are often social rather than medical.
Dr. Raman is passionate about dance and community engagement.
She encourages younger generations to prioritize self-care.
Her work involves addressing complex social issues in child health.
Dr. Raman's favorite song reflects her cultural heritage and personal experiences.


Titles

The Journey of Dr. Shanti Raman: A Pediatrician's Story
Cultural Identity and Community Health: Insights from Dr. Raman


Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Shanti Raman
02:22 Shanti's Journey to Australia
04:13 Cultural Shock and Adaptation
06:42 Reframing Identity and Career Goals
08:02 Pursuing Community Health and Public Health Training
09:18 Establishing Community Pediatrics in Australia
10:02 Research and Contributions to Indian Health
11:12 Pursuing a PhD and Balancing Multiple Roles
13:14 Challenges Faced in Early Career
14:23 Navigating Gender and Racial Discrimination
17:06 Empowering Women Through Literature
17:30 Facing Racism and Gender Bias in Careers
21:05 Challenges in Community Pediatrics
24:45 Navigating Bureaucracy in Healthcare
26:54 Balancing Work, Passion, and Family
28:58 Advice to Younger Generations
30:35 Cultural Expression Through Music and Dance
32:19 midnight-quirk-255361.mp3

 Episode Summary:
In this  episode of the Podcast, Dr Vanisri Anand sits down with the incredible Dr Talat Uppal—a trailblazing obstetrician and gynaecologist, educator, and social entrepreneur. From her multicultural upbringing across Pakistan, Nigeria, and Australia to her tireless advocacy for women's health, Dr Uppal shares her deeply personal and professional journey of building an impactful career while staying true to her values.

 Key Topics Discussed:

• Talat’s multicultural upbringing & migration journey
• The early challenges of settling into the Australian health system
• Her clinical passion: heavy menstrual bleeding and how it became her life’s mission
• Founding Women’s Health Road—a multidisciplinary, GP-led model of care
• Launching Bleed Better: a charity tackling menstrual health stigma and education
• The vision behind International Heavy Menstrual Bleeding Day (May 11)
• Digital health innovation for women, in collaboration with CSIRO & Heidi Health
• Barriers to recognition in medicine and equity in academic leadership
• Her personal battle with breast cancer and lessons in resilience
• Wellness, Bhangra dancing, and walking with family as self-care
• Advice to her younger self: “Back yourself and help others along the way.”

🌐 Resources Mentioned:

• Bleed Better Charity
• Women’s Health Road
• Heidi Health
• SPARKD (CSIRO initiative on health information systems)
• International Heavy Menstrual Bleeding Day – May 11

🎧 Subscribe & Share:
If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and share it with your network!

🎵 Talat's Song Pick :
“Savarlun” – A song symbolizing hope, healing, and the importance of quality of life for women.

Keywords

women's health, general practice, migration, empowerment, Melbourne, Mahila Women's Clinic, healthcare, integration, community support, collaboration


Summary

In this conversation, Dr. Vidya Prabhu shares her journey from India to Australia, her experiences as a general practitioner, and her passion for women's health. She discusses the challenges she faced while integrating into the Australian healthcare system and the inspiration behind founding Mahila Women's Clinic, which aims to empower women through personalized healthcare. Dr. Prabhu emphasizes the importance of collaboration among women in health and the need for a supportive community. She also reflects on work-life balance and the significance of celebrating small wins in one's journey.


Takeaways

Dr. Vidya Prabhu is a GP with a focus on women's health.
She moved to Melbourne from India in 2009.
Integration into Australian life had its challenges, but she felt welcomed.
Mahila Women's Clinic was founded to provide more time and care for women's health issues.
Women often need to feel comfortable before discussing health concerns.
The clinic aims to empower women to take charge of their health decisions.
Collaboration among women in health is crucial for support and growth.
Balancing work and family is a dynamic process, not a fixed state.
Celebrating small wins is important in one's journey.
Community support is vital for women in the healthcare sector.


Titles

Empowering Women Through Health: Dr. Vidya Prabhu's Journey
From India to Australia: A GP's Story


Sound bites

"Women needed more time."
"I think balancing doesn't exist."
"Never give up, keep trying."


Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Vidya Prabhu
03:09 Journey from India to Australia
06:03 Integrating into Australian Life
08:45 The Birth of Mahila Women's Clinic
11:57 Empowering Women in Health
14:52 Challenges in Establishing Mahila
17:34 Balancing Work and Family Life
20:11 Collaboration Among Women in Health
22:50 Closing Thoughts and Inspirational Quotes
23:34 midnight-quirk-255361.mp3

Keywords

Dr. Sumana Gopinath, migrant doctor, neurology, genetics, volunteering, music, work-life balance, personal growth, women's health


Summary

In this episode, Dr. Vani Anand speaks with Dr. Sumana Gopinath, a consultant neurologist and active member of WIN, about her journey from India to Australia, her experiences as a migrant doctor, and her passion for neurology and genetics. They discuss the challenges faced by migrant professionals, the importance of finding balance in life, and the therapeutic role of music. Dr. Gopinath shares insights on her passion projects, including volunteering and her love for music, while reflecting on life lessons learned along the way.


Takeaways

Dr. Gopinath emphasizes the importance of being realistic about career expectations as a migrant doctor.
She reflects on the excitement and challenges of moving to a new country.
The acceptance and friendliness of Australians made her transition easier.
Dr. Gopinath highlights the significance of finding one's Ikigai in their work.
She expresses a deep passion for genetics and its impact on neurological conditions.
Volunteering and helping underprivileged communities is a key passion for her.
Music serves as a therapeutic outlet and a source of joy in her life.
Finding balance between work and family is an ongoing challenge for her.
She encourages taking time to appreciate life's moments and not getting caught up in stress.
Dr. Gopinath shares a profound quote about belonging to the land, emphasizing a connection to nature. 


Titles

From India to Australia: A Doctor's Journey
Navigating the Challenges of Migration


Sound bites

"Music is very therapeutic."
"We belong to the land."



Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Sumana Gopinath
01:15 Journey to Australia: Early Experiences
04:11 Challenges of Migration and Career Delays
07:01 Balancing Work and Family Life
09:19 Finding Passion in Neurology
12:27 Exploring Genetics and Passion Projects
14:38 Advancements in Genetic Therapies
15:22 Volunteering and Humanitarian Efforts
16:44 The Therapeutic Power of Music
18:17 Exploring Music and Cultural Heritage
21:24 Finding Balance in Life
22:45 Wisdom for the Younger Self
24:28 Reflections on Belonging and Nature
26:23 midnight-quirk-255361.mp3

Summary

In this conversation, Dr. Jacinta Vu shares her journey as an oral medicine specialist and the founder of Healing Smiles, a charity providing dental care to women survivors of domestic violence. She discusses her migration to Australia, the challenges she faced in adapting to a new culture, and the importance of listening in her practice. Jacinta also reflects on her experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic, the establishment of her private practice, and the impact of her work on the community. She emphasizes the significance of kindness and vulnerability in both personal and professional life, culminating in her recognition as the Australian of the Year.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Jacinta Wu
01:38 Jacinta's Journey to Australia
03:30 Cultural Adjustments and Early Challenges
06:53 Listening and Patient Care
08:20 Current Practice and Charity Work
09:53 The Birth of Healing Smiles
11:41 Building a Network of Support
13:05 Navigating Challenges During COVID-19
16:04 Funding and Future of Healing Smiles
16:28 Building a Community Clinic for Women
17:41 The Diverse Team Behind the Initiative
18:18 Expanding the Vision: Future Aspirations
18:27 Impact on Lives: Transforming Women's Health
19:00 Balancing Work and Family Life
21:10 Key Messages for the Younger Self
21:47 Winning the Australian of the Year Award
24:24 The Power of Kindness and Community

Keywords

Dr. Sharmila Kumar, Women in Health, South Asian women, medical education, challenges, passion projects, menopause, empowerment, Pickleball, dance


Summary

In this episode of My Story, My Passion, Dr. Vani Anand speaks with Dr. Sharmila Kumar, a general practitioner and medical educator in Sydney. They discuss Sharmila's journey from Malaysia to Australia, her experiences as a South Asian woman in the medical field, and her passion projects, including promoting Pickleball and her initiative 'Menopause My Way' aimed at empowering women. Sharmila shares insights on overcoming challenges, the importance of community, and the role of music in her life, concluding with advice for younger generations.


Takeaways

Dr. Sharmila Kumar is a GP and medical educator in Sydney.
She migrated from Malaysia to Australia at a young age.
Coffs Harbour holds a special place in her heart.
Tennis sparked her love for physical activity.
Sharmila faced challenges as the only Indian family in her town.
Her parents were a source of inspiration and support.
She promotes Pickleball for its accessibility and health benefits.
'Menopause My Way' aims to empower women through shared knowledge.
Music plays a vital role in her life and well-being.
Trusting oneself is crucial for personal growth.


Titles

Empowering Women in Health
From Malaysia to Australia: A Journey


Sound bites

"Brown is beautiful."
"Knowledge is empowering."



Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Sharmila Kumar
02:01 Journey to Australia and Early Life
03:54 Adapting to Life in Australia
04:44 Challenges Faced as a Young Immigrant
06:42 Influence of Family on Personal Growth
07:28 Passion Projects and Community Engagement
09:16 Exploring Dance and Music as Healing Arts
10:07 The Power of Music in Daily Life
10:09 Exploring Passions and Hobbies
10:40 Finding Balance in a Busy Life
12:17 Self-Care and Mindfulness Practices
12:29 Empowering Women Through Menopause Awareness
13:29 Reflections and Life Lessons
14:12 Closing Thoughts and Quotes
14:26 Borough