The Uncut Lifestyles Podcast

Local producer SoKu (aka SoKu Beats) talks about his love for producing and what success as a producer looks like. He details his creative process while keeping it 100% honest about the struggles of marketing music and gaining momentum in the industry. Instagram: @Sokubeatsofficial. Youtube: Youtube.com/sokubeats

Anish Soni is one talented beatboxer. He's part of the Rutgers' acapella group Nothin' But Vocals. We break down basic beatboxing sounds, talk about his journey with acapella, and discuss the impact of hip-hop on our understanding of the world. As someone who was introduced to hip-hop early in life, and as someone who also comes from a similar background, I understand Anish's creative bent perfectly. Let's chop it up! (Intro music: Chillhop Jazz, Mattijs Muller, Shutterstock)

I linked up with my friend from middle school, Jeff Kandathil, a young professional in the banking field. We talked about working in a high-stress field and dealing with stress on an everyday basis. Jeff shared some powerful stories that gave me more insight into the anxieties he faces. Talking to him made me realize that we're all on some level still figuring things out, and no matter how old we get, we may always be in that zone. 

Meet Patel, a supply chain professional, has some strong words for this generation's wantrepreneurs and fakers. Entrepreneurship is cool now, which means everyone has probably thought about starting a business, or at least some sort of side hustle. Meet speaks from experience since his uncle is an actual business owner and entrepreneur. His uncle owns several Mr. Subs eateries and Tacorias (including the one on Rutgers - New Brunswick campus). We have a passionate conversation about starting businesses, working, self-awareness, and of course, Gary Vaynerchuk, CEO of Vayner X, because he's everywhere.

Joining me on this episode is Ryan Permaul from local reggae band, Tropic Vibez. Tropic Vibez consists of three members: Ryan Permaul (Bassist/Vocalist), Anthony Markovski (Guitarist), and Drew Possumato (Drummer). Ryan talks about the songwriting process, touring, managing audience opinions, and his greatest influences (The Beatles, Kanye West, etc.). If you haven't checked out Tropic Vibez yet, this is a sign! They're on every streaming platform out there. (Intro music: Chillhop Jazz, Mattijs Muller, Shutterstock)

I linked up with one of my old friends, Amninder Singh, to talk about photography and what it means to be a creator. He's been a photographer for several years now, and his Instagram page @adventuresofsingh is pretty popping. We sat down to talk about his love for photography, the value of Instagram likes, and content creation. Join his adventure!

My high school friend Srikar Gudipati gives insight into the work/life culture at Johnson and Johnson. He currently works there as a Software Engineer. We talk about the many ways JnJ tries to make its employees feel valued, which then leads us into a larger conversation about the value of social relationships at work. We finish strong with a commentary on structured timelines we encounter in society (in high school, college, work, etc.).

My cousin, Ria Soni, co-founded a non-profit with her friend Juhi Patel called Project Stree. Project Stree is dedicated to raising awareness about women's health and healthy menstrual practices. I sat down with Ria to talk about the stigma surrounding periods and menstrual health and her motivations for starting a non-profit. We also talk about conservatism and how that impacts the way people perceive this issue. Ria shares her vision for Project Stree and comments on what the future will look like for her organization.

I believe that we should practice being empathetic towards our doctors. I mean, they're humans too! Sometimes, they're running behind so we get upset. Or, they make us wait an extra half-hour before seeing us so we complain. I sat down with my dentist, Dr. Mihir Bava, to talk about his practice and lifestyle. I wanted to know what he thinks of his patients, how he views the service industry, and how he handles difficult situations (plus MUCH more). After listening to this one, I hope you see your dentists differently!

My friend, Nimmi Pandya (Rutgers student), has a lot to say about her academic career, especially since she changed her major and will graduate in 5 years instead of the traditional 4. She details her experience with Anthropology, her original major, and explains why she switched to Biomedical Engineering. We then talk about the value of teaching and being a liberal arts major in college. She stresses living your life at your own pace and welcoming new challenges that lead to personal growth.