TURN it up!

TURN it up!

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TURN it up! episodes

  • #221 TURNing it up with Sogand on Wellbeing Wednesday: How to Stay Informed Without Feeling Overwhelmed

     "You are not helpless, and you’re not alone. You might think you’re just a little fish in a big sea, but your compassion and empathy are a gift to the world." –  Sogand Zakerhaghighi 

    In this deeply grounded and relatable episode, Sogand Zakerhaghighi explores how constant exposure to negative news impacts our mental health and what we can do about it. She breaks down the psychology of fear-based media, shares personal strategies for finding joy in chaos, and empowers listeners with tools to reclaim their attention and energy. 

    From cognitive biases like negativity and availability bias to the soothing power of gratitude, art, and mindfulness, this episode is your reminder that you are in control. Tune in to learn how to stay informed without becoming overwhelmed, and how to reset your nervous system with small, meaningful acts of self-care. 

     

    IG: s0gand_ 

    IG: @theuniversalradio

    52 min
  • #220 TURNing it up with LillXJB: Carving His Own Path in Music

    People know me as Jazzy B’s son. But I’m working hard every day to be known as LillxJB.” – LillXJB



    In this exclusive episode, Sapreet turn it up with LilXJB, rising artist and son of legendary Punjabi icon Jazzy B, alongside his producer Gary and Alberta’s own Avi Sohal. The trio dives into the creative journey behind LilXJB’s debut album Forever & Never, released June 21st, featuring 15 heartfelt tracks that speak to pain, perseverance, and personal growth. 

    From favourite songs like “RR” and “Mama,” to reflections on carving out his own identity apart from his iconic father, LillXJB shares the highs, the hustle, and the heart behind his music. 

    Also in this episode: 

    • The story behind “RR” and Avi Soho’s West Coast vibe
    • How Gary and JB built the sound together
    • Family, fame, and finding your voice
    • A preview of what’s next – including a potential deluxe edition and Jazzy B x LillXJB

     

    IG: lillxjb ,   avisohal1 ,  garrysxthi 

    IG: @theuniversalradio

    15 min
  • #219 TURNing it up with Naheed Nenshi: Election Insights and Community Impact

     “What’s special about this country is you can be a practicing Sikh or a purposeful Muslim and a proud Canadian. None of our families came here to move to Alberta—we came because Canada offered us a promise.” – Naheed Nenshi 


    In this special election edition of The Universal Radio Network, Sapreet sits down with Alberta NDP leader and former Calgary mayor Naheed Nenshi for a wide-ranging conversation on the upcoming provincial by-elections, public safety, healthcare, education, and why he believes Edmonton-Strathcona and Edmonton-Ellerslie voters have a chance to send a powerful message to the provincial government. 

    From addressing rising crime in Millwoods to challenging separatist rhetoric and advocating for investments in schools and hospitals, Nenshi doesn't hold back. 

    Listen for candid insights, political clarity, and an urgent call to action as Nenshi explains why these by-elections matter more than you think. 


    IG:  nenshi
     

    IG: @theuniversalradio

    36 min
  • #218 TURNing it up with Jonita Gandhi: From Inspiration to Global Music Success

     It’s time to stop worrying about what people think and just be yourself. Let them love it or let them hate it — just don’t let it dim your light.” — Jonita Gandhi



    In this intimate and empowering episode of Sapreet on The Universal Radio Network, we catch up with one of the most dynamic voices in global music — Jonita Gandhi. Fresh off a wave of creative momentum, Jonita opens up about her latest track “Beparwai”, set to release on Friday, June 13th. She shares the raw, emotional inspiration behind the song, the studio session that felt like therapy, and her evolving journey as a woman navigating the South Asian and global music industry.

    From industry gender biases to embracing her full creative expression, Jonita speaks candidly about what it means to stop dimming your light and start owning your power. 

    A must-listen for music lovers, artists, and anyone needing a reminder to live unapologetically.

    🎧 Tune in and turn it up.

    IG:jonitamusic

    IG: @theuniversalradio

    15 min
  • #217 TURNing it up with Ilhaam Mohammad: Tradition, Healing, and Personal Reflection

     "Partition didn’t just divide land—it fractured relationships, cultures, and collective memory. And that loss, that silence, still echoes through generations."  – Ilham Mohamed 


     

    In this special episode of Wellbeing Wednesday, Gurjeet sits down with Ilham Mohamed—researcher, writer, and community advocate—for a powerful conversation on identity, cultural memory, and emotional wellbeing in South Asian communities. 

    From the often-overlooked contributions of Indian Muslims in Canada to the inherited silence left behind by Partition, Ilham reflects on how history lives within us—through language, food, film, and relationships. 

    The conversation then turns inward, unpacking the emotional dynamics between adult children and their parents in South Asian households—where love, guilt, and duty often coexist. Drawing on insights from mental health advocate Sahaj Kaur Kohli (Brown Girl Therapy),  this episode gently unpacks the tension between tradition and personal healing.  

    This isn’t just a story of the past—it’s about how we carry it forward. 

    IG:ilhaam.nn


    IG: @theuniversalradio

    33 min
  • #216 TURNing it up with Gurjeet Gill on Wellbeing Wednesday: From Burnout to Breakthrough

    Burnout: From Breakdown to Breakthrough

    In this episode of Wellbeing Wednesday with Gurjeet Gill, she dive deep into the five stages of burnout—from stress onset to full-blown habitual burnout. 

    Learn how to spot the warning signs, understand the mental and physical toll, and explore real pathways to recovery. 

    She also unpacks recent research on burnout across different demographics, including why young adults and women are reporting higher rates. 

    This episode is packed with insights, personal reflection, and practical tools to help you reclaim your energy, health, and peace of mind. 

    Resources, hotlines, and local counselling services are included.


     IG: @gurjeet_gill

    IG: @theuniversalradio

    33 min
  • #215 TURNing it up with Dr. Lovneet Hayer: Innovative Approaches to Recovery

     "We’re not just treating addiction or mental health — we’re treating people. That means addressing trauma, environment, identity, and purpose.”  Dr. Lovneet Hayer


    In this episode, Gurjeet sits down with  Dr. Lovneet Hayer, addiction psychiatrist and co-founder of Brick House Recovery Center in Edmonton. Together, they dive into how this innovative center is reshaping addiction and mental health treatment through a bespoke, evidence-based model that treats the whole person, not just the symptoms. 

    From unique detox options to an intensive outpatient program that fits real life, Brick House offers a compassionate and comprehensive path to recovery.  Dr. Lovneet Hayer shares the philosophy behind their care, the kinds of challenges they address (from alcohol and opioids to cannabis and trauma), and why individualized care is more important than ever. 

    Whether you're someone seeking support, a concerned family member, or just interested in how recovery care is evolving, this episode offers valuable insight into what it means to heal holistically.


    Learn more or reach out: 780-244-2472 | [email protected] | brickhouserecovery.ca 


    IG:  brickhouserecoverycentre 

    IG: @theuniversalradio

    13 min
  • #214 TURNing it up with Harjeet Kaur: Thriving Through Cancer and Advocacy

    "I don’t just want to live—I want to thrive." - Harjeet Kaur

    In this deeply moving episode of Sapreet on the Universal Radio Network, we sit down with Harjeet Kaur, a stage four rare blood cancer survivor, patient advocate, and public speaker. Harjeet shares her powerful story of diagnosis, isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the challenges of navigating cancer treatment as a young immigrant in Canada.

    Together, we explore the cultural stigma around cancer in South Asian communities, the importance of open conversations, and how hope and faith helped Harjeet transform her journey into a mission of advocacy and support for others.

    From the heartbreak of a rare diagnosis to the milestone of her “re-birthday” after a life-saving stem cell transplant, Harjeet's courage and resilience shine through every moment. 


    This episode is an inspiring reminder that even in the darkest times, connection, empathy, and speaking out can be life-changing.


    IG: hk_thriver
     


    IG: @theuniversalradio

    30 min
  • #213 TURNing it up with Arjun Atwal: Breaking Barriers in Hockey

     "This nomination isn’t just about me—it’s about every kid who’s ever felt like they didn’t belong in hockey. We’re changing that, together, as one." — Arjun Atwal


    In this special episode, we sit down with Arjun Atwal, the founder of az1Hockey and a 2025 nominee for the Willie O’Ree Community Hero Award. This prestigious NHL honour recognizes individuals who use hockey to build bridges, foster inclusion, and inspire positive change, and Arjun is doing exactly that.

    We dive into the impact of his program, which is empowering BIPOC youth across Canada through mentorship, representation, and access to hockey. Arjun opens up about the barriers he faced in the sport, how he's creating space for others, and why this nomination is bigger than just him—it's about a movement.

    He shares what it means to be recognized on this level, the community behind him, and how you can vote daily to help bring the award home.

    🗳️ Vote daily until Sunday at 11:59 PM!
    🏒 Learn more at NHL.com/OReeAward


    IG: @az1hockey

    IG: @theuniversalradio

    30 min
  • #212 TURNing it up with Imrin Sidhu: Healing Through Art and Community

    “I believe that art is healing. It’s a way to connect to people, a way to spread joy and love. I always say the three things I hope people think about when they see my art are connection, reflection, and joy.” - Imrin Sidhu

    Today, we're sitting down with the incredibly talented Imrin Sidhu — a registered mental health nurse and self-taught Artist based in Edmonton — for a heartfelt conversation about healing, creativity, and community. Imrin shares the story behind her artistic journey, how her work in mental health intersects with her art, and the personal meaning behind her signature style of abstract florals. 

    We also dive into her exciting new collaboration with Kyle & Co. Design for the highly anticipated Bar Trove and retail space in downtown Edmonton. From navigating the vulnerability of sharing her first artwork to painting her very first large-scale mural, Imrin walks us through the challenges, inspirations, and emotional rewards of bringing a creative vision to life. 

    Whether you're an art lover, a dreamer, or someone curious about the power of community and self-expression, this episode is a must-listen


    IG: @imrinsidhufineart

    IG: @theuniversalradio

    24 min

About TURN it up!

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Welcome to The Universal Radio Network's podcast page, here you can access our interviews, discussions & podcasts. Visit our website at www.theuniversalradio.com or follow us on social media…