Your Neighborhood Show – Episode 5 - Finding Connection Through Music & Life’s Journey with Yani

In this heartfelt episode, host Carolyn welcomes the incredible Yani Mills—choir director, vocal coach, and passionate community builder. Yani shares her inspiring journey from childhood disconnection to fostering deep connections through music. She opens up about growing up feeling different, her transformative experience as a Sai Baba devotee, and how a shocking revelation led her to reevaluate her beliefs. Despite the challenges, Yani found solace and purpose in leading choirs, helping people connect through song and shared experiences. This episode is a moving exploration of belonging, resilience, and the healing power of music.Episode Breakdown:[00:00] IntroductionCarolyn shares her personal journey of growing up in a connected neighborhood in Mumbai, then experiencing isolation in Australia.The mission of the podcast: normalizing disconnection and finding ways to rebuild community.[05:30] Meet Yani MillsYani’s passion for music and her work as a choir director.How she connects people through her choir programs.[10:45] Early Experiences of Connection & DisconnectionFeeling out of place as a child due to cultural differences and being outspoken.Finding comfort in a childhood friend, Madeline.The deep bond with her grandmother, Pearl Harrison, a feminist and advocate for women’s shelters.[20:00] A Life-Changing Spiritual JourneyDiagnosed with aplastic anemia as a child.Her grandmother’s work typing a manuscript about Indian guru Sai Baba.Becoming a devoted follower and attributing her healing to faith.[30:15] Losing Faith & Rebuilding IdentityWitnessing an unsettling moment that shattered her beliefs.The emotional impact of leaving a spiritual movement after 42 years.Struggling with belonging and finding new meaning.[40:00] Music as Healing & ConnectionHow choir work became a true form of spirituality for Yani.The magic of singing together: breaking barriers, creating belonging.Her philosophy: “Sing, Learn, Laugh, Connect.”[50:00] Final Reflections & AdviceHow to find belonging: pursue what you love and find people who share that passion.The Ubuntu Wellness Choir and its mission.Yani’s final words on connection and the power of music.🎶 Ready to experience the joy of connection through song? Join Yani’s choir and be part of something truly special!🔊 Listen now and be inspired by Yani’s journey of resilience, transformation, and community building.