For the Season 2 premiere, we’re switching things up. Instead of sitting behind the mic asking the questions, Mariam is in the hot seat as Emma interviews her about the story behind the person behind People Like Us.

Mariam opens up about growing up between Egypt and America, navigating a dual identity, and learning to embrace all the parts of herself. She shares how growing up between cultures shaped the way she sees people, asks questions, and connects with stories that might otherwise go unheard.

She also takes us back to where People Like Us began, the creative doubts that came with starting something of her own, and why she believes ordinary people can have extraordinary stories.

A little bit about Mariam, a little bit about the podcast, and a lot about why our stories matter.

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In this episode, Renee shares the raw, unfiltered reality of navigating college as a first-generation student from a small, underrepresented community. You'll discover how she leveraged social media, tapped into her network, and refused to accept no as the final answer—all while balancing her identity, mental health, and a desire to break generational barriers. The story highlights key insights including how to find hidden scholarships, the importance of community, and the resilience needed to trust yourself when paths aren’t clearly laid out.

This episode is perfect for first-generation students, young professionals, or anyone who feels like the “door is closing.” Her honest reflections on finding community, negotiating relationships, and chasing dreams in unfamiliar territory will resonate deeply. If you're contemplating a leap into the unknown or need a dose of inspiration to keep going, Renee’s journey proves that where you start doesn’t define where you’ll end.

Follow along on Instagram @ppllike_us for updates, reflections, and clips from each episode.

From a Bosnian mother tracing her family's journey through genocide, land struggles, and personal growth, to a passionate educator juggling her cultural roots with her role in shaping third-culture kids-these conversations reveal that understanding your identity is a lifelong journey. Discover how embracing your core values, fighting to preserve your language, and nurturing your passions can create a powerful legacy for future generations.

Lilly shares her journey of losing her mother to brain cancer and how it shaped her path in medicine. She discusses the challenges of navigating the healthcare system, the importance of community, and the power of turning grief into purposeful action, such as running a marathon for charity.

Follow along on Instagram @ppllike_us for updates, reflections, and clips from each episode.

Most doctors don’t share the real toll of residency or grief, but Lily’s story will change how you see strength, resilience, and healing. From surviving her mother’s glioblastoma while in medical school to running the NYC Marathon in her mom’s memory, Lily reveals the raw realities of balancing intense training, grief, and self-care.

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Thank you for listening to People Like Us. Wherever you are, I hope this conversation made you feel a little less alone. Until next time, take care of yourself, and take care of each other.

Follow along on Instagram @ppllike_us for updates, reflections, and clips from each episode.

Thomas, a vibrant 21-year-old with roots in Brazil and Italy, takes us beyond surface-level self-expression to explore how language, culture, and art shape who we are. He reveals how embracing his multicultural background, especially speaking Portuguese, fostered emotional depth and a richer understanding of himself. From navigating Utah's bubble to thriving in New York’s expressive streets, Thomas uncovers the tools and mindset that empower his authentic voice, music, fashion, meaningful friendships, and the "let them think" philosophy.

Follow along on Instagram @ppllike_us for updates, reflections, and clips from each episode.

Follow along on Instagram @ppllike_us for updates, reflections, and clips from each episode.

When moving from the bustling streets of Dubai to the quiet suburbs of Utah, she faced more than just a change of scenery—she confronted assumptions about identity, faith, and belonging. In this episode, she shares how her early experiences as the only Muslim and Arab in her class sparked a deeper understanding of her faith and culture, transforming challenges into opportunities for growth. Her story reveals the power of pride in heritage, and how embracing differences leads to a richer, more authentic self.

Follow along on Instagram @ppllike_us for updates, reflections, and clips from each episode.