The Global Leap

Tune into this exclusive interview with award winning michelin-starred chef, philanthropist, author, and judge/host of acclaimed tv show Master Chef India! I was able to catch Chef Vikas Khanna while he was speaking about world hunger and his philanthropic efforts at the Consulate General of India in NYC. The "No One Hungry" event, in collaboration with the World Food Movement, was a testament to the power of food and of course- the influence of Chef Khanna spanning not only the luxury cuisine industry, but also global causes. Tune in now!

I sat down with Dr. Anisha Guda, a board-certified dermatologist trained at UT Southwestern who practices medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology in Dallas, TX. Joining her is Dr. Rani Chirumamilla, a scientist and biotechnologist with 20+ years in research and product development and the founder of Monaesi Skincare, where she blends science and nature to create plant-based, clinically backed skincare.

In this conversation, we cover:
✨ Why is tinted sunscreen better on our skin
✨ Skin of color-specific skincare mistakes to avoid
✨ How clinically-backed, plant-based formulations are made
✨ Ingredients that actually work vs. what's marketing hype
✨ Building a sustainable, long-term skincare routine

Tune in to this episode of the Global Leap for a dynamic interview with the award-winning head chef at Dhamaka NYC, Neel Kajale! Dhamaka is described by Michelin guide as “refreshingly unapologetic with its complex spices, fierce heat levels, inspired preparations of more unusual items as a bold love letter to the country’s more rustic dishes. As part of Unapologetic Foods, Dhamaka is under the same parent company which boasts Semma(michelin star south indian restaurant) Neel started off with an All-India Rank of 97 and secured admission at the Institute of Hotel Management (IHM), Mumbai. He went on to showcase his love for food and media across many renowned names in the Indian hospitality industry before he took a leap of faith and journeyed to New York City where he studied at The Culinary Institute of America (CIA) and served a successful tenure at the 3 Michelin Starred restaurant, Eleven Madison Park. He previously worked as the Test Kitchen Manager at Haven’s Kitchen. His recipes have been featured on times of india while he has been praised for curating unique and flavorful recipes.

On this episode of the Global Leap, tune in to hear the story of someone who's not just making waves on the court but also breaking barriers beyond it. Standing at 6'6", Ryan Agarwal is a guard for the Stanford cardinals, known for his sharpshooting skills and relentless work ethic. But Ryan’s journey is about more than basketball—he’s representing the hopes of millions as one of the few Division I players of Indian descent, determined to inspire the next generation and challenge stereotypes about South Asians in sports. From his roots in my hometown of Dallas, Texas, to being a top player on the Stanford cardinals with the NBA in sight. Only two players of Indian descent have made it to the NBA, Ryan Agarwal is hoping to be the 3rd. Listen now!

Had the pleasure of sitting down with the  stars and director of new, hit film A Nice Indian Boy starring Karan Soni(our very own Indian Spiderman and Deadpool star), Zarna Garg(our favorite Indian aunty and comedian), and Johnathan Groff(the acclaimed actor in everything from Hamilton to Frozen)! And let me tell you, this conversation with Zarna Aunty, Karan, and visionary director Roshan Sethi was EVERYTHING. Culture, comedy, connection... we covered it all 🎥💬
Catch our conversation, Zarna Aunty’s hilarious comedy in real time, and a marriage proposal? 👀

Tune in to hear RJ Anya Ahuja's conversation with rising superstar, Anurag Saikia! This Bollywood music composer is making waves in the industry with songs like Ishq Hai, Aise Kyun, Bada Naam Karenge, and more!

i am so excited to have versatile artist and music Producer Hiten Kumar with me today! Hiten is a Punjab-born engineer-turned prominent music producer who is the mastermind behind songs like Aashiqui - Badshah (Cirkus Film) She's on Fire - Badshah (Fighter Film) Paani Paani - Badshah Saawariya - Kumar Sanu x Aastha Gill,  laddoo by mc square, and Badshah’s new album Ek Tha Raja. He began by just sharing his music covers on Youtube while in college, before his breakthrough with the release of "fix match by Tarsem Jassar," which not only boosted his confidence but also set him on a path towards realizing his musical ambitions. Moving to Chandigarh to pursue his dreams, he immersed himself in the local music scene, collaborating with like-minded individuals and honing his craft.
In 2021, Hiten's talent caught the attention of industry heavyweight Badshah, who recognized his potential and entrusted him with creating a fresh beat for "Bachpan ka Pyaar." The success of this collaboration catapulted Hiten into the spotlight, paving the way for future hits like "Jugnu," "Sanak," "Players," and "Ladoo," as well as the entire Retro Panda EP.
However, Hiten's artistic journey doesn't stop there. With a desire to explore his creative boundaries further, he has ventured into songwriting and singing, producing notable tracks like "Munde Munde" and "Tere Piche" on Spotify. As an artist, Hiten continues to push the boundaries of his creativity, leaving an indelible mark on the music industry with his talent and passion.

Join RJ Anya Ahuja for the second episode of the Global Leap, a season of the podcast where she talks to accomplished professionals and individuals from across the globe who are breaking barriers and progressing leaps and bounds in their fields. This week, listen to Bollywood director and producer Ms. Kiran Rao on the success of her latest directed movie, Netflix-hit "Laapataa Ladies"

Listen as Anya learns about the life, struggles, and achievments of Iron Lady, Khudsiya Nazeer! Khudsiya is a world record holder and a decorated weightlifter on the international stage who has won gold medals for India in the Asia Pacific Masters and the Commonwealth Games while dominating the field in the international, national, and state levels. Her title of Iron Lady not only describes her unreal physical strength, but also her mental prowess as she has fought through countless adversities in her life and used weightlifting to work through and rise above a tumultuous childhood, toxic marriage, and more. She is now on her way to breaking another world record as this year, as she strives to become the first woman to pull an Emirate’s aircraft in Dubai.

Join Anya and celebrity interviewer Paul Salfen as they interview the brilliant minds behind the Malayalam movie, The Goat Life.  It is the 3rd highest grossing Malayalam film of all time, and delivers a poignant social message on the migrant experience!