Journeys with Krutika

Hi I'm Krutika and today's conversation is with Preeti. Preeti and I connected because of our shared love for Podcasting. She's the host of a podcast called It's Preeti Personal, a really clever play on her moniker which is aimed at having open and authentic conversations on topics through the lens of being south Asian. This passion project came about during the pandemic and let's face it, the pandemic was an interesting time for all of us! Covid and the lockdowns affected everyone in so many different ways, I'm sure the ramifications are going to be felt for decades to come. And whilst each generation faced their own set of silent struggles… this conversation conveys one individuals experience of being a 20 something year old missing out of all the things that we so easily take for granted. From missed socials, working dynamics, mental health and the impact on relationships. This conversation is open, honest and pretty personal. Chapters (00:00) Introductions (07:23) Life Before COVID (14:24) The Impact of COVID (17:59) Navigating mental health during a Pandemic (21:57) Navigating career changes during COVID (28:20) The impact of COVID on relationships (41:36) Embracing New Beginnings and Opportunities (45:45) Conclusion Connect with me: Linktree: https://linktr.ee/journeyswithkrutika If you have a journey you'd like to share I'd love to hear from you, email me at [email protected]

Hi I'm Krutika and today's conversation is with Alpa. We discuss a topic that's guaranteed to affect 100% of women at some point in their life. Perimenopause. Referring to the years before a woman stops menstruating, it can be triggered as early as a when a woman is in her 30's. Despite it being a certainty for every woman, the reality is that the struggles of perimenopause are seldom shared so openly. Whether it's denial, fear, or judgement, women silently suffer…choosing isolation over support, enduring pain over respite and ultimately feeling a loss of identity. This conversation is not offering medical advice, rather it's one woman's journeys of enduring over 2 decades of perimenopausal symptoms that affected all aspects of her being. Now on the other side of this journey, Alpa spotlights what we don't always hear. We discuss how trauma internalised will eventually find its release and how holistic methods of self-care helped her see through the worst of her symptoms. Alpa's journey conveys bravery, courage and a level of resilience that is hugely inspiration. Perimenopause is inevitable for women but understanding it shouldn’t be optional for anyone! If this episode resonates, I'd strongly encourage you to share it because I think wider awareness will create empathy, and empathy has the power to create change and hold space for understanding. Chapters (00:00) Introductions (03:52) Understanding perimenopause (08:58) Personal experiences of perimenopause (13:55) The impact of trauma (19:04) Self-care (28:23) Therapy and coping mechanisms (47:56) Advice for women (50:40) Conclusion Connect with me: Linktree: https://linktr.ee/journeyswithkrutika If you have a journey you'd like to share I'd love to hear from you, email me at [email protected]

Hi I’m Krutika and today’s conversation is with James. When we talk about the parent-child dynamic, we usually imagine the parent as the primary caregiver. That wasn’t the case for James. From the age of just four, he found himself taking on caring responsibilities after his mum was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis - an autoimmune disease that eventually left her in a coma state when James was still a teenager. James’s journey is truly remarkable, not just because of what he’s been through, but because of how he reflects on it. He shares his experiences with a quiet stoicism and without complaint, showing a level of resilience that’s genuinely admirable. In this conversation, we explore what being a carer meant for him, how a breakthrough led to James unpacking those experiences, and how life came full circle when he later found himself caring for his dad after a stage four cancer diagnosis during Covid. Experiences like these could understandably leave someone feeling bitter, but that’s not James. He speaks with a deep sense of gratitude and a perspective on life that I found truly enlightening. Chapters (00:00) Introduction (03:10) James's childhood (07:34) Understanding Multiple Sclerosis (14:23) The impact of caregiving (17:58) Navigating teenage years (27:30) Navigating caregiving (30:19) The dark night of the soul (34:39) Caring for my father (49:32) Looking Ahead (51:31) Conclusion Connect with me: Linktree: https://linktr.ee/journeyswithkrutika If you have a journey you'd like to share I'd love to hear from you, email me at [email protected] Connect with James: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesperryconsulting?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app

Hi I’m Krutika and today conversation is with Sandhya. Sandhya has devoted a large proportion of her life to service, the service of others and specifically empowering women of Indian descent. Sandhya’s journey was inspired from her early childhood in Kenya where she witnessed her siblings selflessly devote time and energy to the those in need, watching and learning the importance of giving back, Sandhya relentlessly pursued this passion after moving to the UK post marriage. Her drive to uplift, support and empower women from disadvantaged backgrounds is palpable from her past endeavours, her awards and her continued actions towards shifting the needle. This journey reminded me of the gratitude I could be showing to the things I so easily take for granted - from my ability to speak a universal language like English, right through to respect and dignity. Chapters (00:00) Introductions (04:50) Personal experiences and empowerment Initiatives (13:05) Challenges faced by Indian women (16:25) Impactful stories (19:18) Lessons Learned (20:21) Empowering the next generation (21:41) Vision for women’s empowerment (27:45) Conclusion Connect with me: Linktree: https://linktr.ee/journeyswithkrutika If you have a journey you'd like to share I'd love to hear from you, email me at [email protected]

Hi I'm Krutika and today's conversation is with Raj and Mick. They are the co-hosts of an incredible podcast called Bruv Cast. As a fellow Gujarati of a certain generation, all the topics they discuss, albeit from a male perspective are really resonate and conveyed with a sense of light-heartedness that make it an easy, yet impactful listen. I was absolutely thrilled that they agreed to join me for a conversation, and I'll admit I may also have been fan-girling a bit because they've been in my ear for the last year! Honestly, they're just the nicest guys and even though we were connecting for the first time online, I felt like I'd known them for so much longer. Their chemistry, warmth, banter and playful humour made this conversation so easy and effortless, and I can't wait for you to hear more about their journey. We deep dive into how they met, why they set up their podcast and what they've learnt along the way. Let's face it, we all go through challenges in life, but your perspective can make all the difference, and true to their tagline, Raj and Mick have a way of finding the funny no matter the struggle, and it's a motto I'm certainly trying adopt in my own life! Chapters (00:00) Introductions (09:28) Cultural identity in Bruvcast (14:06) The role of comedy (23:38) Listener feedback (36:54) Authenticity in conversations (39:57) Mental health matters: Breaking stigmas in the Indian community (48:49) Lessons Learned (52:24) Conclusions Connect with me: Linktree: https://linktr.ee/journeyswithkrutika If you have a journey you'd like to share I'd love to hear from you, email me at [email protected] Connect with Bruvcast: https://linktr.ee/bruvcast

Hi I’m Krutika, and todays conversation is with Bhavin. At 50 years young Bhavin has a level of strength and fitness that many would be envious of, however his journey to being in the best shape of his life wasn’t an immediate transformation. Like most things, it was a labour of good habits repeated regularly, from changing his nutrition and daily activities, Bhavin now embodies a level of discipline that I have great admiration for. His fitness journey has enabled him to achieve incredible feats including the Annapurna trek (in Nepal’s Annapurna mountain range) and earlier this year climbing Mount Kilimanjaro (Africa’s highest peak), talk about adrenaline and adventure! Now we’ve all heard the saying your body is a temple…but devoting a consistent level of respect, care and nurture for the thing that journeys throughout life with you is a task that not everyone commits to, how do you view your body and what are you doing to take of it? Bhavin’s journey has inspired me to want to push harder with my own health and fitness journey and it may just do the same for you. Chapters (00:00) Introductions (02:33) Early fitness journey (07:40) Health challenges and turning points (12:38) Dietary changes (26:43) Adventures in hiking and Mount Kilimanjaro (44:45) Summit day experience (55:54) Conclusion Connect with me: Linktree: https://linktr.ee/journeyswithkrutika If you have a journey you'd like to share I'd love to hear from you, email me at [email protected]

Hi, I'm Krutika and today's conversation is with Anika. This journey is deeply personal, full of emotions and one I resonate with because it's a journey I too have traversed. Up until today I've never shared this part of my journey so publicly and I'm somewhat nervous about some of the revelations that are to come through this episode. But Anika's courage and her willingness to be so raw and open gave me the space to do the same. This conversation, however, is not about me…It's about the remarkably strong, courageous and resilient human being that is Anika and her decade long struggle to become a parent which sadly has not happen. Her journey is a stark reminder of the women in society who silently suffer, endure and stand on the periphery of something that is meant to be a biological certainty. From an ectopic pregnancy to unexplained infertility, rounds of unsuccessful IVF concluded by a hysterectomy (a surgical procedure to remove the womb) Anika has endured set-back after set-back yet, on each occasion she has rebuilt herself and is finally embracing a life where she has chosen to flourish without limits. This conversation is a reminder to be kind, to be compassionate and understanding of those around you, because you never really know what someone is going through! Chapters (00:00) Introductions (03:05) Childless Vs Childfree (05:18) From Event Planning to Personal Struggles (12:33) Navigating Multiple IVF Cycles and Surgeries (19:37) The Emotional Toll of Infertility (32:15) The Silent Struggles of Partners (41:54) Creating a Supportive Community for Child-Free Women (45:33) Conclusion Connect with me: https://linktr.ee/journeyswithkrutika If you have a journey you'd like to share I'd love to hear from you, email me at [email protected] Connect with Anika https://linktr.ee/flourish_without_limits?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaczE4ACqhENNDxJSPHNaUzrrxOF1HiWgkUEmwdxagQYRLa6HpUe9Y8YtEKzRg_aem_gOYOE7vFvFN5a3WXT-qCQA

Hi, I’m Krutika, and today’s conversation is with my brother, Aum. Even though he’s seven years younger than me, his ability to pause, reflect, and carry a sense of self-awareness has been something I've quietly admired - especially because I know it's a practice he's worked hard to cultivate. So, in this episode we sit down to talk about his journey unmasking identity. He spent his early years in India, before moving to the UK at the age of nine. The culture shock, the sense of being sidelined, and an initial struggle to fit in - fuelled his desire to belong. For a while, that meant trying to embrace being British until he realised, he’s also Indian! It’s a struggle I know many British Indians, and people from other minority backgrounds, can relate to, me included. In our conversation, we explore what identity means to him and shine a light on both the challenges and the beauty of embracing dual cultures. So often, we move through life without pausing to think about the building blocks that make us who we are. This conversation really made me stop and reflect on my own identity and it may just do the same for you! Chapters (00:00) Introductions (02:56) Volunteering (06:57) Exploring Identity (22:20) Cultural Transition and Identity (33:55) Stereotypes and Prejudice (40:47) Blending Cultures and Self-Discovery (44:50) Conclusions Connect with me: Linktree: https://linktr.ee/journeyswithkrutika If you have a journey you'd like to share I'd love to hear from you, email me at [email protected]

Hi I'm Krutika and today's conversation is with Jaydeep. Have you ever stopped to consider the impact of what you're eating? I've been a vegetarian all my life, A decision partly driven by the fact that I grew up in a household where this was the diet and by default, I ended up adopting. Growing up however, I've been surrounded by friends, family, colleagues and well also my partner eating meat, but I considered my diet to be one that was not harming any other living being and that gave me a certain peace of mind. But then I had this conversation with Jaydeep, and it genuinely opened my eyes. He's adopted the vegan lifestyle, driven by a strong passion of ensuring his life choices do not harm any living being. Having made the switch to becoming vegan in 2020, Jaydeep is on a journey to educate and empower others to make the right choices about what they consume. This conversation is not pushing an agenda or going deep into the ethics of veganism, it’s simply one person’s journey - why Jaydeep chose this path and what it means to him. Chapters (00:00) Introduction (01:15) Understanding Veganism (03:03) The Journey to Veganism (12:17) Challenges of Veganism (15:41) Health Benefits of Veganism (20:57) Environmental impact (25:25) Misconceptions About Veganism (30:01) Conclusions Connect with me: Linktree: https://linktr.ee/journeyswithkrutika If you have a journey you'd like to share I'd love to hear from you, email me at [email protected]

Hi I'm Krutika and today's conversation is with Sonia. How often do we find ourselves following the path that’s expected of us, making choices we didn’t fully choose, simply because that’s what society, culture, or tradition says we should do? Sometimes, we don’t even realise we’re doing it, and we just keep moving forward, unaware of whether the life we're living is truly ours. But what happens when you pause... and start to question it all? When healing, self-discovery, and spirituality begin to pull you in a new direction and one that challenges the old rules? That’s exactly the journey Sonia found herself on. In this episode, we talk about her decision to separate from a relationship that spanned over two decades. A separation that was mutual, respectful, and intentional. But in the Indian community, even an amicable ending can be met with raised eyebrows, judgment, and whispers. Sonia chose to confront all that head-on. Her story is one of quiet courage, deep reflection, and transformation. From her early years in Zambia, to living apart from her parents during her formative teens, to redefining what relationships, family, and spirituality mean to her now. Sonia’s journey is full of wisdom and inspiration, and I am in awe of the resilience and strength she carries. Chapters (00:00) Introductions (04:01) Marriage: Early expectations (11:22) Cultural pressures (13:43) Spiritual journey (14:59) Reflections on Marriage (20:23) Redefining Relationships Post-Divorce (22:02) Coping with judgment and grief (25:35) Tools for healing (37:22) Conclusion Connect with me: Linktree: https://linktr.ee/journeyswithkrutika If you have a journey you'd like to share I'd love to hear from you, email me at [email protected]

Hi I'm Krutika and today's conversation is with Nina. Born in Mayotte, a small French island situated in the Indian ocean, Nina's love for dance began when she was just 5 years old. Fast forward to today and she's turned her passion into a thriving dance business. She's a qualified Zumba teacher and a choreographer and trust me when I say her classes are a real work out! But behind the moves is a story of real resilience. In 2012, after her daughter was born with special needs, Nina found herself in a very dark place - lost, overwhelmed, and blaming herself for something she had no control over. But then came a powerful turning point: a moment of connection with her daughter that led her to rethink her life and heal herself with dance. Nina's journey is a reminder in the power we all have to turn our pain into purpose, and like Nina we may all be able to find a way to dance out of the darkness! Chapters (00:00) introduction (01:56) Nina’s dance journey (06:28) Overcoming personal struggles (10:50) Facing adversity with strength (12:45) Navigating challenges of parenting a child with special needs (15:11) Finding joy in dance (20:46) Advice for parents (23:54) The transformative power of dance (25:03) Conclusion Connect with me: Linktree: https://linktr.ee/journeyswithkrutika If you have a journey you'd like to share I'd love to hear from you, email me at [email protected] Follow Nina: https://ninaschoreography.co.uk/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAafB4dPQXStxpTTDDIy7trNU19jYmKofavXjoAoeXTpMRhQcZ6Mu-5fL_uryhA_aem__s4-Zxqt3Ja-dnPTrOGTLQ

Hi I'm Krutika and today's conversation is with Hannah. A Chartered Accountant, owner of the Accountancy Hub and a fierce advocate for neurodiversity particularly in the accountancy space. In her late 20's Hannah was diagnosed dyslexic, like many of us (myself included), you might associate dyslexia primarily with difficulties in reading and spelling. But as I learned, it can manifest in so many ways. Hannah's journey is fascinating, from working at the BBC to pivoting into professional services and, just last year, launching her own business. She’s living proof that following your passion is always an option and that most decisions are just a two-way door. This conversation is a powerful reminder to embrace what makes you unique, because that’s your superpower. It’s also a call to challenge stereotypes and rethink the misconceptions that shape how we view neurodivergent individuals. We need to see beyond the label! Chapters (00:00) Introduction (00:56) Early Career (06:05) Career Transition (07:36) Overcoming exam failures (09:24) Diagnosis of Dyslexia (13:39) Strategies for managing Dyslexia (19:27) Establishing Accountancy Hub (24:16) Lessons learned in advocating for neurodiversity (28:39) Advice for career change and neurodivergence (29:41) Conclusion Connect with me: Linktree: https://linktr.ee/journeyswithkrutika If you have a journey you'd like to share I'd love to hear from you, email me at [email protected] Follow Hannah https://www.instagram.com/accountancy.hub?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=MWg2YTExMHplZGludA==

Hi I’m Krutika, and today’s conversation is with Jeremy. Have you ever stopped to think just how incredible our brains are? They’re the command centre for everything we do and the reason we are who we are. Each brain is so wonderfully unique, yet society and constructs of everyday life expect us to do things in a way that is, well…neurotypical! Jeremy, asks a powerful question: ‘What is normal, anyway?’ He was diagnosed with ADHD as an adult in 2021, finally getting the validation that explained so much about how his brain works. Instead of fighting against it, he’s learned to embrace ADHD as his superpower. I’m so inspired by Jeremy’s acceptance, self-awareness, and resilience. This conversation opened my eyes in so many ways, and I think it just might do the same for you. Chapters: (00:00) Introduction (05:12) Understanding ADHD (12:56) The Journey to diagnosis (18:53) Challenges and misunderstandings of ADHD (23:12) Embracing neurodiversity in the Workplace (25:34) The Connection Between ADHD, Anxiety, and Depression (28:51) Strategies for managing ADHD (35:35) Advice for those struggling with ADHD and mental health (37:13) Future Journey (41:51) Conclusion Connect with me: Linktree: https://linktr.ee/journeyswithkrutika If you have a journey you'd like to share I'd love to hear from you, email me at [email protected]

Hi, I'm Krutika and today's conversation is with Diren. When we think about the modern man, we envision someone embodying confidence, and charm. And whilst beauty standards are often thrust upon women. Let's not forget that Men face it too. Maybe just not as overtly. In this conversation we unpack Diren's journey with accepting appearances. Having battled Topical Steroid Withdrawal over several years, he candidly reveals the struggles and hard work it took to confront his inner demons. From challenges with dating and intimacy, to breaking up with his ex and recognising that he has to learn to love himself before he can open himself to others. This conversation is a reminder that often the answers we seek can be found deep within us. We simply have to have the patience to look. Chapters (00:00) Introductions (02:19) The unfolding of a skin condition (13:47) Support in relationships (15:21) Impact on relationships (21:50) Romantic relationship dynamics (34:32) Advice for others (37:37) Conclusion Connect with me: Linktree: https://linktr.ee/journeyswithkrutika If you have a journey you'd like to share I'd love to hear from you, email me at [email protected] Diren's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TwoBrosOneConsciousness/posts

Hi I'm Krutika, and today's conversation is with Miraj. While he’s only in his 20s, his story starts over a decade ago when he was just 14. After sudden, and severe migraines as well as unexplained vomiting, a scan revealed something no one could’ve expected: a brain tumour. Within days, he was having surgery. A surgery that could have gone either way. What he shares reflecting on that time, the diagnosis, the pain, the memories before surgery and the clarity that came afterwards…it's all so raw, and powerful, and incredibly moving. Honestly, I found myself getting emotional just listening. But what really struck me is how he’s carried that experience into his life today. The wisdom he brings, the peace he’s found, and his approach to the world, it’s something we could all learn from. If you’ve been needing a reminder to slow down and live with a little more intention, this one’s for you. Chapters: (00:00) Introduction and Early Symptoms (01:36) The brain tumour diagnosis (07:12) Reflecting back on the surgery (09:52) Symptoms (12:16) Processing post-surgery (16:01) Impact on confidence (19:48) Reactions from friends (24:30) Support (26:57) Advice for younger self (29:56) What's next (30:55) Conclusion Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/journeyswithkrutika/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@journeyswithkrutika If you have a journey you'd like to share I'd love to hear from you, email me at [email protected]

Hi I'm Krutika and today's conversation is with Anjali, in the words of Alesha Keyes this “girl is on fire!” A Senior Project Surveyor, fierce advocate for diversity and inclusion in construction, public speaker, newly appointed Chair of the Chartered Institute of Building… oh, and did I mention she’s also got a black belt in Taekwondo? Talk about a powerhouse. I feel Anjali is the modern women we all aspire to want to be. Anjali shares her journey into construction, the challenges she’s faced in a male-dominated field, and why she’s so passionate about driving change. From dealing with inappropriate remarks, to the incident that pushed her to take up martial arts for self-defence. This conversation opened my eyes to an industry I knew very little about. Chapters (00:00) Introduction (03:02) Anjali's Journey into construction (05:49) Challenges in a male-dominated Industry (08:59) Advocating for Diversity and Inclusion (12:11) Anjali’s job (14:59) Impactful projects (18:09) Education and career pathways in Construction (20:56) The importance of role models (24:06) Self-Defence through Taekwondo (27:04) Future aspirations (30:11) Closing Follow Anjali: https://www.instagram.com/indiangirlonsite/ Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/journeyswithkrutika/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@journeyswithkrutika If you have a journey you'd like to share I'd love to hear from you, email me at [email protected]

Hi I'm Krutika, and this is my podcast Journeys with Krutika. Today's conversation is with Sofia - my youngest guest yet. At just 16, Her age may be young, but the obstacles she has overcome tell a story of remarkable strength. Battling Topical Steroid Withdrawal (TSW), Sofia endured not only the physical toll of this debilitating skin condition but also the emotional struggles that come with it, all whilst navigating being a teenager. And let's be real, our skin is the most visible part of us, and when it doesn’t look or feel ‘normal,’ it can shake our confidence and our sense of self. Sofia bravely shares her struggles, the setbacks, and the hope she found along the way. Her journey is raw, honest, and deeply moving and I'm sure one that will stay with you long after you've listened. Chapters (00:00) Introduction (03:02) Understanding Topical Steroid Withdrawal (TSW) (06:11) The emotional impact of TSW (08:59) Navigating diagnosis and treatment challenges (12:08) Support systems and mental health (14:47) Lifestyle changes and healing strategies (17:56) Misunderstandings and awareness of TSW (20:47) Encouragement for those struggling with TSW (23:07) Journey towards recovery Connect with me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/journeyswithkrutika/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@journeyswithkrutika If you have a journey you'd like to share I'd love to hear from you, email me at [email protected]

Hi I'm Krutika, and this is my podcast Journeys with Krutika. Today’s conversation is with Nikki. Nikki is a chartered accountant, a chartered tax expert, a qualified fitness instructor, mum to a toddler and now a business owner. Wow, those are quite the achievements! However, having worked her way up the corporate ladder at one of the big 4 accountancy practices, the decision to leave that all behind to focus on something that truly brings her joy, purpose and flexibility is the journey she's embarking on now. From keeping a diary since 1998, recognising the power in reflection and introspection, Nikki is embracing curiosity and finding the excitement in starting over. There's so much to commend here with Nikki's approach to learning and life, and for anyone considering making a change this conversation is for you. Chapters (00:00) Introductions (03:21) Corporate working journey (06:18) Multiple professional qualifications (0:11) Leaving behind a corporate career (20:09) Being a mother and managing a business (22:03) Nikki's motivation (27:40) Mentors along the way (32:36) Additional skills and knowledge of being a business owner (33:56) Advice for pursuing change (38:24) Closing Nikki’s Contact details: https://linktr.ee/nikkirichmond?utm_source=linktree_profile_share&ltsid=c7c821d7-fcda-4d2d-a01e-2ef1e5082419 Connect with me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/journeyswithkrutika/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@journeyswithkrutika If you have a journey you'd like to share I'd love to hear from you, email me at [email protected]

Hi I'm Krutika and this is my podcast Journeys with Krutika. Today’s conversation is with Kiara. She's a Gen Z, fifth year medical student studying at Imperial College London whose inspiration to enter the profession was in part, influenced by watching Gray's anatomy. I mean you can't deny that TV shows make doctors, surgeons and clinicians look super sexy! I’ve always had massive admiration for people in the medical field, not just because they literally save lives, but because of the sheer grit, resilience, and perseverance it takes to even get into the profession, let alone thrive in it. But Kiara isn’t just an aspiring junior doctor, she’s also built a social media following of nearly 10,000 people across Instagram and TikTok, where she shares her insights and advice as a med student. We explore her journey into medicine, the pressures and the realities of being a medic and how social media has played a role in it all! There's so much to unpack in this conversation and I can't wait for you to hear it - all from a young Lady who has an exceptionally bright future ahead of her. Chapters (00:00) Introduction (03:30) The medical School application process (10:58) Social media influences (15:00) Medics as influencers (20:27) Real-Life Patient Interactions (23:12) Emotional Detachment in Medicine (26:08) Night shifts (28:20) The Future of Healthcare and AI (30:19) Current Journey and Future Aspirations Connect with Kiara Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kiaravarsani/ tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kiaravarsani Connect with me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/journeyswithkrutika/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@journeyswithkrutika If you have a journey you'd like to share I'd love to hear from you, email me at [email protected]

Hi, I'm Krutika and this is my podcast Journeys with Krutika. Today’s conversation is with my brilliant nieces, Maya and Shreya - two Gen Z sisters who’ve grown up in a world where social media is as natural as breathing. Did you know that over 60% of the world’s population - that’s a staggering 5 billion people - use social media? On average, we spend over two hours a day scrolling, posting, and engaging. And Gen Z? They’re among the most active users of all. In this conversation, we dive deep into Maya and Shreya's journey with social media—the good, the bad, and, well, the sometimes ugly that comes with using these applications. From its impact on confidence and self-worth to the ways it shapes their daily lives, they share their unfiltered insights on what it’s really like to grow up in a hyper-connected world. Their perspectives are both fascinating and eye-opening. This one's a must-listen for anyone who uses social media. Chapters (00:00) Introduction (01:16) Growing up with Social Media (08:18) Connections on social media (11:39) The Pressure to Present a Perfect Image (15:21) Navigating Real Life vs. Online Presence (17:47) The Impact of Social Media on Confidence (22:48) The Positive Aspects of Social Media (29:21) Advice for New Social Media Users (32:05) Future journey (33:19) Closing Connect with me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/journeyswithkrutika/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@journeyswithkrutika If you have a journey you'd like to share I'd love to hear from you, email me at [email protected]

Hi, I'm Krutika and this is my podcast Journeys with Krutika. Today’s conversation is with Bansi. Imagine meeting someone online, falling head over heels in love, getting married, and then watching it all unravel in just a few years. Navigating a post-married life abroad and succumbing to the traditional expectations of a daughter-in-law in an Indian household brings with it its own challenges, but to then contend with inappropriate remarks about her appearance coupled with a cheating husband was the final straw that resulted in Bansi's decision to separate and move back home to the UK. But navigating divorce in the Indian community carries stigma, judgement and a misunderstanding which continue to make it a taboo topic, and in this conversation we unpack all of the above to share Bansi's journey of discovering herself. Chapters (00:00) Introduction (01:14) Growing up in an Indian household (03:28) The online dating experience (07:06) Marriage Expectations (12:29) The Breaking Point: Infidelity (14:01) Support systems: Family and Friends (15:50) The grieving process of divorce (17:29) Changing perspectives on love and relationships (19:30) Advice for women considering divorce (21:18) The journey of self-discovery Connect with me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/journeyswithkrutika/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@journeyswithkrutika If you have a journey you'd like to share I'd love to hear from you, email me at [email protected]

Hi, I'm Krutika and this is my podcast Journeys with Krutika. Today's conversation is with my wonderful brother, Jigar Thanki. I may be a bit biased - after all, I’ve known him his whole life - but trust me when I say he’s one of the kindest, most inspiring, and knowledgeable people I’ve ever met. Whenever I face a challenge, whether personal or professional, he’s the person I turn to for wisdom and perspective. In this episode, we dive into his journey of writing his first book, Mental Models: What I’d Tell You in 3 Hours, a project inspired in part by becoming a father. He shares the models, principles, and influences that have guided him, and we explore how becoming a dad has realigned his "north star." There’s so much to take away from this conversation, from his thoughtful insights to his humility and brilliant mind. Above all, his story is a powerful reminder of the importance of service and creating value for others. Chapters (00:00) Introduction (00:55) Inspiration behind writing a book (02:21) The concept of mental models (07:00) North Star (09:38) Lessons learned from writing (11:54) Influences and inspirations (14:55) Challenges in the writing process (19:25) The Importance of Curiosity (24:35) Reflections on legacy (25:05) Closing Connect with me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/journeyswithkrutika/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@journeyswithkrutika Buy the book: https://amzn.eu/d/2eY3iQ3 If you have a journey you'd like to share I'd love to hear from you, email me at [email protected]

Hi, I'm Krutika and this episode is with my fantastic friend Jaymini. She is in every sense of the word a very successful woman, an accountant, a home owner and a business owner yet her barometer of success isn't dictated by her pay, her material possessions or her business performance. Instead, she offers a refreshing perspective on what it really means to live a fulfilled life - one that will resonate with so many of you. We also dive into her journey of being Indian, single and nearly 40 along with all the pressures and stigma this carries. I am truly in awe of the resilience and self-assurance that Jaymini embodies. This conversation is a reminder of the beauty of navigating life without conforming to pressures. Chapters: (00:00) Introduction and Background (01:18) Career choices (03:40) The world of contracting (08:39) Investing in a gym business (11:36) Defining Success (14:59) Societal Pressures and Singlehood (19:39) Online dating (24:16) Self-Worth (27:36) The next journey Jaymini’s Business Anytime Fitness Alperton: 0203 062 5979 https://g.co/kgs/F7s5gx8 Connect with me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/journeyswithkrutika/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@journeyswithkrutika If you have a journey you'd like to share I'd love to hear from you, email me at [email protected]

Hi, I'm Krutika and this episode is with Harsh, a recent animation graduate from Bournemouth University. He shares his journey from growing up in the UAE (Dubai), to building a new life in the UK having moved here at the young age of 18 to pursue higher education. Harsh candidly reveals the subtle classism he experienced living in the UAE and the inspiration behind making the move to the UK. His story captures both the challenges and joys of adapting to British culture, to discovering unexpected freedoms. What makes this conversation particularly compelling is Harsh's personal transformation. Now a freelance animator with ambitions to grow his business, Harsh's journey illustrates how geographic transitions can spark personal change. Chapters (00:00) Introduction (00:59) Growing up in the UAE (03:34) The decision to move abroad (05:20) Bournemouth University (07:37) Expectations vs. reality (11:59) Cultural differences (14:16) Proud accomplishments (16:14) Personal growth (19:19) Advice for international students (19:35) Future journey (20:12) Closing Connect with me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/journeyswithkrutika/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@journeyswithkrutika If you have a journey you'd like to share I'd love to hear from you, email me at [email protected]

Hi, I'm Krutika and this episode is with my dear friend Rakhi, in our conversation she bravely shares her journey of being diagnosed with mouth cancer not once, but twice! She opens up about the emotional and physical challenges of surgery and recovery, from the hour-long struggles with simple meals to recording voice notes for her children before surgery. But this isn't just a journey with cancer – it's about resilience, self-discovery, and making bold life choices. Rakhi talks about her recent decision to take a career break to focus on family and wellbeing. Her honest reflections on learning to prioritise what truly matters and embracing uncertainty make this conversation both touching and inspiring. Chapters (00:00) Introductions (04:03) Health Journey - dealing with mouth cancer (08:50) Surgery challenges and post recovery (14:47) Sources of support (17:45) Taking a career break (21:35) Lessons learned and advice for others (24:14) Closing Connect with me Instagram https://www.instagram.com/journeyswithkrutika/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@journeyswithkrutika If you have a journey you'd like to share I'd love to hear from you, email me at [email protected]

Hi, I’m Krutika, an ordinary Indian girl, born in India, raised in England, ex-accountant turned educator, and I’m still figuring life out! I’m curious about the paths people take and the decisions we all make! Our socials and main stream media is rife with the stories of the famous and successful, but so many incredible journeys of ordinary people like you and I go untold. I want to spotlight those voices and bring their stories to you. So in this podcast, I’ll sit down with regular people, to hear their journeys, from the struggles they’ve faced, to the lessons they’ve learned and their successes along the way. I’d love for you to join me for conversations about life, growth, and the extraordinary journeys of ordinary people because your journey is unique! And if you have a journey you want to share contact me at [email protected] Episode 1 coming soon! This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm