In this moving episode of Obstacles to Opportunities, we sit down with Tanuja Hughes, whose story begins in a crowded apartment filled with 12 people and arrives at a place few imagined a career at Google and a life of deep presence and purpose.

Tanuja opens up about the emotional journey shaped by her mother’s unwavering belief, the impact of a simple “How are you?” at age 8, and how childhood adversity became the foundation for a life led with compassion, not performance.

We explore what it means to rewrite the script we’re handed, and how honoring our parents doesn't mean repeating their story; it means doing better because of it.

Whether you're a mother, daughter, dreamer, or builder, this episode will leave you reflecting on the quiet strength that pushes us forward and the power of intentional living.