#41 What It’s Really Like Growing Up as a Woman in Iran with “Marjan”

#41 What It’s Really Like Growing Up as a Woman in Iran with “Marjan”

In this episode, we sit down with 'Marjan' from Iran to explore the lived experience behind the headlines — through her story, her perspective, and her voice. We begin with her background and what everyday life looked like growing up, before diving into a deeper conversation about culture, identity, and what people often misunderstand about Iran. She shares what makes her proud of where she comes from, and how she would describe Iranian people beyond common stereotypes. As the conversation unfolds, we talk about gender roles, expectations, and the subtle (and not-so-subtle) ways they shape daily life. From clothing and self-expression to social norms and public spaces, she reflects on what felt normal, what felt restrictive, and how those boundaries impacted her sense of freedom. We also explore how these expectations affect both women and men, how people navigate them, and the quiet ways individuals push back or create space for themselves. Finally, we shift into what changed after leaving — how her perspective evolved, what feels different now, and what she wishes more people understood about her experience. This episode is not about speaking for everyone, but about listening to one person’s story with curiosity and respect. Listener discretion is advised as some topics may be sensitive. *  For safety and privacy reasons, the guest in this episode is using a pseudonym, and certain identifying details have been changed. A quick note for context: In Iran, there’s a formal legal system, but decisions and how rules are applied are also shaped by religious authority and the Supreme Leader, who holds the highest power in the country. This conversation reflects one person’s lived experience within that reality.

#40 Saving the Forgotten: Inside a Dog Sanctuary in Guatemala with Aaron Bartlet

What happens when a single street dog changes the course of your life? In this episode, i sit down with Aaron Bartlett, founder of Perros Libres - a dog sanctuary in Lake Atitlan in Guatemala to hear his journey. We hear the powerful story of a chance encounter on the streets of Guatemala that turned into something much bigger. What began with one sick, nearly hairless puppy suffering from scabies became the catalyst for creating a sanctuary for street dogs in need. From playing music for tourists to dedicating life to animal rescue, Aaron's journey is as inspiring as it is emotional. It’s a story of compassion, unexpected opportunities, and the realities of caring for animals that the world often overlooks. But it’s not all uplifting—behind every rescue is the weight of responsibility, the pain of loss, and the difficult decision to let dogs go to better homes. If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to make a difference—or how one moment can completely change your path—this conversation is for you. Guest info: Website: https://www.perroslibres.info/ [https://www.perroslibres.info/] Instagram: @perroslibres Facebook: Perros Libres Inc.

#39 Reclaiming ‘Bossy': Being Real, Even When It’s Messy - with Maahika Singh

In this episode, a sit down with Maahika Singh, host of Reclaiming Bossy podcast and founder of Empower Sound Media and we just have a really honest conversation about what it’s like to do your own thing. We talk about going against expectations, building something from scratch, and all the parts people don’t really see—the self-doubt, the discipline, the lonely moments, and the pressure to stay true to yourself while you grow. If you’re figuring things out or feel a bit out of place, you’ll probably relate to this one. Guest Contact Info: Personal Instagram Account: @maahika.s Podcast Info: IG: @reclaimingbossy Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5tOVYHKgL1eGvUdpxZdAFB?si=22bbf3d2f5f24968 [https://open.spotify.com/show/5tOVYHKgL1eGvUdpxZdAFB?si=d1ae197f46b44e4b] YouTube: @reclaimingbossy Company Info: Website: https://www.empowersoundsmedia.com/ [https://www.empowersoundsmedia.com/] IG: @empowersoundsmedia

#38 The Fear of Being Seen (And What Happens When You Let Go) with Alia Ballout

What stops us from fully showing up as ourselves? In this episode, i sit down with Alia Ballout, a Lebanese-Singaporean young female business owner - currently based in Singapore running her own olive oil business ; and we explore the fear of being seen, the pressure to fit into one identity, and the journey of breaking out of those expectations. After years of feeling like she didn't fit into the life she was living and a near death experience that served as a reminder that life is short, she decided to build the life she really wanted and not let fear dictate her life. From building a business from scratch to navigating multiple passions, this conversation dives deep into what it takes to live authentically. We also talk about using your voice, speaking on difficult topics, and how even small actions can create meaningful change. This is a conversation about courage, growth, and becoming who you really are. Guest info: Instagram: @aliaaaballout Substack: @aliaballout Company IG account: @beitballout Website: beitballout.com

#37 What Your Pet Can’t Say and how to Become the Parent They Need”

Our pets can’t tell us when something feels off — but they are always communicating. In this episode, we sit down with a veterinarian, Mandala Hunter-Ishikawa — a vet, trainer, and long-time animal welfare advocate, to explore what chronic pain really looks like in animals, how it quietly changes behavior, and why “they’re just getting older” is often a misunderstanding. We talk about the subtle signals guardians miss, how pain reshapes the human–animal bond, and why training should build trust — not control. Most importantly, we explore what it truly means to become the parent our pets need: more observant, more informed, and more attuned. Because recognizing pain isn’t just about treatment — it’s about dignity, communication, and showing up better for the ones who depend on us. If you share your life with an animal, this conversation may change the way you see them. Guest Info: Linkedin: Mandala Hunter-Ishikawa Instagram: @animalsasia